What to see in the centre of Lisbon?

The first 30 minutes in downtown Lisbon—and you’re already falling in love. This city captivates, draws you in, and enchants. Colorful buildings, sidewalks paved with black-and-white cobblestones, café tables under white umbrellas, fountains, and the sound of music—this is the essence of downtown Lisbon. Sometimes it can get crowded and too noisy here, but the city’s advantage is that you can always find peace and quiet just a few meters away. Join me in exploring Portugal’s capital. I’ve lived here for over 7 years, and today I’ll show you how to tour the city center to experience its charm.

I don’t go to the very center as often as I used to, but I’m still captivated by the capital’s architecture and atmosphere. There are many must-see spots here. I always recommend that visitors start with these strategic points on the city map.

Downtown Lisbon is colorful, bustling, and offers many spots with a great vibe. Here, you can take a stroll, learn interesting facts, and take beautiful photos. Start your tour right here, with a few landmarks. Read on to find out what to see in downtown Lisbon.

The centre of Lisbon is colourful, loud, chaotic, but also really beautiful. Here you can walk around, find out more about the history of the city and take pictures of pretty buildings. Read on to find out more about what to see in the centre of Lisbon.

In this article I mention places located near the river. If you’d like to know more, head to the articles about Alfama and Bairro Alto.

If you want to really see the best spots in the city, you can miss the very centre of it. Here you will learn the history, admire the best of the capital and (probably) fall in love with the magnificent, lively streets.

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The centre of Lisbon – Basic information

For a European city, Lisbon’s city center isn’t very large. It encompasses the neighborhoods of Baixa Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama. In this post, we’ll focus mainly on Baixa.

The famous Rua Augusta, which is about 500 meters long, branches off from the main square. Lisbon covers an area of 85 square kilometers, but the city center itself is just a small part of that—only a few square kilometers. You can walk to all the major attractions.

Depending on what you want to see and whether you’re looking for an intensive sightseeing experience, it’s worth setting aside about half a day or possibly a full day for the city center. It gets scorching hot here in the summer, so explore in the morning and afternoon. During other seasons, you can explore the center of Lisbon during the day.

Nearest metro stations:

– Terreiro do Paço

– Baixa Chiado

– Rossio

Praça do Commercio and the area around – your starting point

Praça do Commercio is the most important place in Lisbon. In the 18th century it was the home of the most luxury king’s palace, but it was destroyed by the tsunami.
Later on, the square was used as a parking lot and only recently it has been converted into a tourist attraction and the symbol of the city.

In the middle stands a monument of the king José I, who sits on a horse and crashes snakes on its path.

Take the time to walk around the square, under the roofs of the pavilions. The corridors are amazing and you’ll find some nice bars and restaurants. There are a couple of attractions, too. Visit the Lisboa Story Centre and Beer Museum to find out more about the city and try out some kraft beers.

These places are worth visiting with a guide. Try out GetYourGuide, who have English-speaking guides that will show you the best attractions and tell you all about Lisbon and Portuguese culture.

Cais das Colunas – once it was the stop point for ships that brought and took all kinds of goods. Today it’s a place for chilling, relaxing and taking nice photos.
It’s attracting at any time of the day, but remember that at noon, until around 4pm it might be quite hot in the Summer as there is no shade around.

The entrance to the city is marked with a huge arch – Arco da Rua Augusta. It was built to commemorate the spirit of the locals and their bravery after the earthquake and tsunami in the 18th century.

The arch is huge and the sculpture on the very top – the alegory of glory – is around 30 metres high.

The monument features a set of allegoric symbols such as “Gloria crowning Genius and Value”, the work of the French sculptor Anatole Calmels. Immediately below there are (from left to right) statues of Viriato, Vasco da Gama, the Marquis of Pombal and Nuno Álvares Pereira (these being the work of Portuguese sculptor Vítor Bastos), with representations of the rivers Tagus and Douro on each side. (via visitportugal.com)

You can climb on the top of the arch and admire the square from the very top. The entrance is located just after you cross under the arch, on the right had side and costs 3 Euros per person.

One of the most famous and wonderful streets in Lisbon is Rua Augusta, which leads from the arch towards the city. In the Summer season it is quite crowded, but take a walk along it anyway.

Here you’ll find bars and restaurants as well as souvenir shops. You can also eat a pastel de nata here and other Portuguese specialities.

Rossio Square and the area

The Rossio Square is beautiful. You will see it if you go up Santa Justa Lift.

The place was created in the 13th century, when Lisbon started to grow. At first it was inhabited by the lower class.

After the earthquake in the 18th century the square was totally destroyed. It was an opportunity to change it into something a bit more iconic. The architects built characteristic homes around it that you can admire till today. In the 19th century calçada portugesa – the small tiles – were added which pattern reminds us of the waves on the river Tagus.

In the middle of the square stands the monument of Don Pedro IV. The legend says that the statue was supposed to be placed in Mexico and resemble the King of the country – Maximilian. However, he had been killed before the monument was finished. So not to waste the work, the statue was transported to Lisbon and turned into one that commemorates the Portuguese king.

The Rossio Station is a modern train station, which is not really a huge attraction inside. Just take a look at the building from the outside. The facade is beautiful.

At the entrance you will see an empty spot. Once before it was a space where a sculpture of the youngest Portuguese king was – king Sebastian. But, one night, a drunk young man wanted to take a selfie with it and knocked the statue down. It shattered to pieces and since then the space has been empty.

What to see in the centre of Lisbon? Another square, of course. Praça da Figueira is not the most beautiful place, but come here to admire the famous Lisbon trams.
There are a couple of interesting places around, including the Dolls’ Hospital and Casa das Bifanas, where you can eat some traditional Portuguese sandwiches.

Hidden gems of the centre of Lisbon

Ginga or ginjinha is a traditional Portuguese liqueur made out of cherries and aguardente, which is made out of sugar cane.

You can try it in many places in Lisbon, but the most traditional are located around the centre of the city. Go to A Ginjinha, which is a small shop where for a few Euros you’ll be able to drink like a local…Well, almost because traditionally it should be drank at the counter while talking to the salesman. Today, however, it’s packed with tourists and there is no space for a chat. It’s still a cool place to visit though.

Order the shot, take it outside and drink it there. After that, give the glass back.

Casa do Alentejo is a beautiful place, which was created in the 17th century. It was the residency of the family of Paes de Amarral. In the 20th century the family moved out and the building was turned into the first casino in Lisbon.
In 1932 the place was changed into a centre for people from Alentejo region – hence the name.

Casa do Alentejo has beautifully decorated rooms, resembling those that you can see in Arab countries.

Upstairs you can see some few more halls and eat a nice meal at the beautiful restaurant.

The next stop on your map is São Domingos Church.

The church that despite its location is quite often missed by many tourists.

This church was burned down in 1533 and then almost completely destroyed in 1755 during an earthquake. Efforts were made to rebuild it, but in 1859 another fire broke out here. In 1994, it was reopened to the faithful once again, but this time it was decided not to rebuild the church at all, giving it a unique atmosphere and making it a very interesting attraction on the map of Lisbon.

Hills and lifts of Lisbon

The Santa Justa Elevator is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks. Built at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries according to a design by engineer Raul Mesnier du Ponsard, it opened to the public in 1902. Its cast-iron, neo-Gothic structure connects the lower Baixa district with the Carmo district, bridging a height difference of 45 meters. Inside, you’ll find two elegant cabins finished in wood and brass—evoking the atmosphere of the Belle Époque. At the very top of the tower, a winding staircase leads to an observation deck offering one of the most beautiful views of Lisbon: Rossio, the Tagus River, São Jorge Castle, and the ruins of the Carmo Convent are literally right at your fingertips. Since 2002, the elevator has held the status of a National Monument of Portugal.

At the top of the hill, right next to the Santa Justa Elevator, lie the ruins of the Convento do Carmo. The 1755 earthquake completely destroyed the roof and most of the walls—and that’s how it has remained to this day. As you walk through the nave, you have only the sky above you. It’s one of those places that makes an impression not because of what has been preserved, but because of what is no longer there. Inside, there’s a small archaeological museum with exhibits from various periods of Portuguese history—it’s worth a visit, especially if you’re into history.

One of the most photogenic spots in Lisbon is the Elevador da Bica.

There are four funiculars in Portugal’s capital. Their original purpose was to help residents reach their homes, which are often located on Lisbon’s steep streets. Today, they are primarily a tourist attraction. The Bica Funicular is probably the most popular due to its stunning location among colorful townhouses.

Two yellow cars take turns running on the tracks. You can hop on and take a ride. Visitors often choose to pose next to the car, which is, of course, free.

Avenida da Liberdade and the area of Chiado

The beautiful, green Avenida looks stunning during sunny days. Walk along the walkways and stop for some wine at one of the kiosks.

A Brasileira is a legendary café. This beautiful café has been around since the early 20th century and was the first to sell coffee in Portugal. The interior is stylishly decorated, and outside, under white umbrellas, you can sit, watch the passersby, and listen to live music. In front of the café stands a statue of Fernando Pessoa—a writer beloved by the Portuguese.

The narrow streets branching off from Chiado and winding their way uphill, as well as those leading into the Bairro Alto neighborhood, are often quiet and peaceful. They offer a perfect alternative to the bustling city center. I recommend taking a leisurely stroll through them, exploring the quieter corners, and discovering the many different sides of downtown Lisbon.

Visiting the centre of Lisbon – Your plan for 1 day

9:00 – Praça do Commercio Start your day at Lisbon’s most famous square while it’s still relatively quiet. Stroll under the arcades, pop into Cais das Colunas, and take in the view of the Tagus River.

9:30 – Arco da Rua Augusta Climb the arch for 3 Euros and admire the city and the square from above.

10:15 – Breakfast: Martinho da Arcada The oldest café in the city. You can drink coffee and try pastel de nata where the famous Fernando Pessoa used to spend his time.

11:00 – Rua Augusta → Plac Rossio Take a stroll down the main street in the city center. At Rossio, stop by the fountains and admire the facade of Rossio Station.

11:30 – A Ginjinha Drink a small glass of ginja – it’s a must-do thing in Lisbon.

12:00 – São Domingos Church – it’s just next door. This church is very unusual and offers a glimpse into the history of Lisbon.

11:45 – Casa do Alentejo – Take a peek inside, even if just for a moment—the Moorish interiors are impressive.

1:00 PM – Casa das Bifanas (Praça da Figueira) A classic Portuguese snack: a bifana for just a few euros, enjoyed at a table in the square. While you’re there, catch a glimpse of the trams passing by.

2:00 PM – Santa Justa Elevator: Enter from the Convento do Carmo side (cheaper and no line). View from the terrace of Baixa and the castle.

2:45 PM – Ruins of the Convento do Carmo A moment of rest in an extraordinary place—Gothic walls without a roof, a small archaeological museum.

4:00 PM – Elevador da Bica: The most photogenic elevator in Lisbon. Take it down to Chiado and spend the rest of the evening there.

5:00 p.m. – A Brasileira: Coffee at an outdoor table, live music, the statue of Pessoa. The perfect way to end the day.

Avenida da Liberdade – A leisurely stroll down the avenue. A wine or coffee kiosk—the perfect time for a break.

6:30 PM – Dinner in the Chiado area. One of the restaurants nearby—for example, on Rua do Norte or Rua da Barroca.

Check out your walk on the map.

Visiting the centre of Lisbon – Practical Information

You can get to the center of Lisbon by bus, tram, or metro—depending on where you’re staying in the city. The metro stations near the places I mentioned are: Rossio, Terreiro do Paço, and Baixa Chiado.

Uber and Bolt are also cheap and convenient options in Lisbon.

Find out more information about transportation in Lisbon.

You can easily explore the center of Lisbon on your own with my guide.

However, if you want to learn even more about the capital, choose a guided tour. I recommend GetYourGuide, a company that organizes tours in major cities across Europe and around the world. These tours are tailored to your interests and led by locals who are passionate about the places they show you.

How to see the most of the centre of the city?

You can do it on your own. Just get lost in the city streets. Do it slowly and don’t rush. But, if you want to find out more about Lisbon and check more places in the centre, then hire a guide. I recommend GetYourGuide, which offers local professional guides and exciting trips.

Lisbon is safe in general. Just like in any big city, mind your belongings and don’t leave them unattended.

In the centre of Lisbon you will meed ‘dealers’. They will offer you drugs, but don’t be fooled. These are just teas, vitamins or flour sold to you for a very high price. Just don’t stop, walk away and say no to those that will try to sell it to you.

Don’t forget your insurance. Whenever you go abroad, you should have good policy. I recommend SafetyWing or World Nomads – the best insurance for digital nomads and long-term travellers.

What to take?

In the Summer Lisbon is very hot, so take light clothes, but something with long-sleeves will also be useful as nights might be cool.
Comfortable shoes are a must. Lisbon is very hilly. I recommend these amazing trainers from Tropicfeel, which I wear every time I go sightseeing.

The centre of Lisbon is very busy, so check the reviews of the places you want to stay at. It’s better to stop somewhere a bit away from the main points as it is more likely it will be quiet.

Here are my recommendations:

• Internacional Design Hotel
• Hotel da Baixa
• My Story Hotel Ouro

Where to eat?

There are plenty of places to eat around the centre of Lisbon. Stop at Casa das Bifanas for some sandwiches, go for a proper meal to Uma Restaurant and try out one of tascas.

What else is there to see in the centre of Lisbon?

As mentioned before, in this post I focussed on the spots located below the hills. You can easily add the streets of Alfama and Bairro Alto to this. I’d head to the direction of Cais do Sodre as well.

If you want to know more about visiting Lisbon, check out my guide to the city, which is perfect for those visiting it for the first time.

I hope I helped you with planning your visit to the capital and answer the most burning questions about what to see in the centre of Lisbon.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment.