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Top 10 things to do in Lisbon 2022

In this list we look at the best things to do in Lisbon for summer 2022, we look at some of the newest attractions in Lisbon this year as well as some of the best most enduring things to do.

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the second-oldest European capital city, predating other modern European capitals by centuries. It has been the political, economic and cultural centre of Portugal for hundreds of years, but its magic has as much to do with its rich history as it does with its vibrant and colourful streets. Filled with a mix of old and modern shops, restaurants, cafes, monuments, riverside walks and attractions - where locals and tourists easily blend under sunlight that is always mild and pleasant -Lisbon has plenty of activities to offer. Here’s a list of the top 10 best things to do in the city:

1. Get to know the new attraction in town: Quake – Lisbon Earthquake Centre

Quake is the new must-see when in Lisbon: located in Belém, it combines fun and knowledge to offer you an experience you won't soon forget. When walking through the streets of Lisbon today, the story of the Great 1755 Earthquake lurks on every corner. But what happened to the vibrant mediaeval streets? By entering this attraction – designed for families, history lovers, amateur scientists and those who seek adventure and fun activities -, you will travel into the past (getting back safe and sound) and will feel the power of an earthquake, reproduced by a simulator, video mapping and special effects. A thrilling immersive experience that surprises at every step to make you smile, feel and learn. Quake will make you tremble with excitement.

Address: Rua Cais da Alfândega Velha, 39 | 1300-598 Lisbon, Portugal

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2. Delight yourself with the famous Pastéis de Belém

It doesn’t matter if you have a sweet tooth or not: the world-renowned Pastéis de Belém will win you over with their rich flavour and crunchy crust, not to mention the space that has been their home since 1837 – a vintage bakery café with a large esplanade. Located in one of the city’s prime areas, near Jerónimos Monastery, a visit to Pastéis de Belém is for sure one of the best things to do in Lisbon.

Address: Rua de Belém, 84 a 92 | 1300 – 085 Lisbon, Portugal

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3. Unravel the city’s past at Lisbon Museum

Curious to know everything there is to know about the city of Lisbon? There’s a long-term exhibition at Pimenta Palace - a summer palace dating from the first half of the 18th century and now the headquarters of the Museum of Lisbon -, that provides a chronological overview of the development of the city from prehistoric times to the late 20th century, having a large-scale model of the pre-earthquake Lisbon.

Address: Campo Grande, 245 | 1700-091 Lisbon, Portugal

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4. Marvel at Jerónimos Monastery

The uniqueness of the Manueline style, also known as late Portuguese gothic, can be found in all its glory at Jerónimos Monastery. The iconic building was commissioned by King Manuel I shortly after Vasco da Gama's return from India in 1502. It still impresses today locals and visitors with its magnitude, the richness of detail and eternal splendour. Visiting this site is like walking through the pages of history but it is also a nice spot to take a stroll and relax, due to the beautiful surrounding gardens and the proximity to the river promenade, so definitely add Jerónimos Monastery to your list of things to do and see in Lisbon.

Address: Praça do Império | 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal

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5. Find your inner explorer at Torre de Belém

One of the things to do in Lisbon is to visit Torre de Belém. Why? Starting at the end of the 14th century and until the 18th century, Portugal was at the forefront of discoveries. In order to protect the city’s quays – the launching point of explorers and adventurers – a tower was built in the Tagus River mouth, in Belém, an area considered to be the outskirts of the city at the time. This is how Torre de Belém emerged from the water, leading Portugal to the world and becoming, centuries later, one of Lisbon's main attractions and landmarks. In a beautiful open riverside setting, you can enjoy a drink, take cool pictures or watch a great sunset. 

Address: Av. Brasília | 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal

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6. Discover the narrow streets of Alfama District

Either if you are travelling solo, or with family or friends, Alfama must be at the top of your list of places to visit in Lisbon. This neighbourhood is the personification of Lisbon's spirit and culture. Here, you will be captivated by the mediaeval atmosphere of the cobbled narrow streets, the floating sounds of Fado and Portuguese folk music, the vibrant buildings colours, the beautiful artworks and ancient architecture, and to finish off, a sweeping view over the river and the city from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

Address: Largo do Chafariz de Dentro | 1100-345 Lisbon, Portugal

7. Gaze at fabulous azulejos artworks in the National Tiles Museum

Azulejo (tile), is an artistic expression that differentiates Portuguese culture. As you wander around Lisbon, you will find many tile panels (and tile-inspired souvenirs) in the most varied places - buildings, fountains, courtyards, and restaurants –, some are centuries old and some are modern and fun. Hence, National Tiles Museum is one of the most important national Portuguese museums of the singularity of its collections, which will allow you a journey through the history of tiles and to some extent, of the country, from the 15th century till the present day. 

Address: Rua Madre de Deus, 4 | 1900-312 Lisbon, Portugal

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8. Trace glorious history at Baixa - from Praça do Comércio to Rossio

When in Baixa you are at the beating heart of the contemporary city – however, very different from what it was more than 260 years ago. On 1st November 1755, at around 09:40 am, a violent earthquake, followed by a tsunami and several fires that lasted a week, destroyed Lisbon, changing the face of the city forever. As a result, the city looks completely different today than before the earthquake, with the development of a detailed plan influenced by Enlightenment ideals, with wide, orthogonal streets and a more symmetrical cityscape, less dominated by church towers and palaces domes. This plan is considered the first example of urban planning in history. Many important buildings were destroyed, changing forever the face of Lisbon and bringing to life what are now some of the must-see attractions, places and museums in Lisbon: Praça do Comércio, Rossio, Convento do Carmo, Elevador de Santa Justa, Ribeira das Naus, Cais das Colunas and many more.

Address: Praça do Comércio | 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal

9. Hop aboard Hippo Trip

Don't have much time to visit the city and are undecided between a sightseeing tour through the streets of Lisbon or a boat tour on the Tagus? Think no more about it: Hippo Trip offers the ideal solution, with a tour by land and river. Aboard one of their amphibious vehicles, you will be able to see many of the city’s landmarks in a cool family or group activity.

Address: Doca de Santo Amaro – Alcântara | 1350-353 Lisbon, Portugal

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10. Ride Tram 28

When in a new city, do you ever wonder what it is like to live there? The iconic Tram 28 route is a great opportunity to get a sense of Lisbon’s daily life, as you cruise through the cobbled streets of the city centre. Starting at the hills of Graça and continuing through the historic district of Baixa, before pulling up at the charming Estrela neighbourhood, you are bound to discover the Portuguese lifestyle, as well as years and years of history, as you cross through various important city features, palaces and monuments.

Address: Praça Martim Moniz 39 | 1150-052 Lisbon, Portugal

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