I didn’t expect to fall for Lisbon as quickly as I did, and I’m not the only one who falls in love with this city. Maybe it was that first sip of coffee in that cozy cafe, or the sunset view from that miradouro. But here’s the thing: Most tourists make the same mistakes when they visit Lisbon, so please let me give you the best tips to avoid the most common mistakes, you’ll find tips on how to get around, how to save money on the typical tourist attractions.
Don’t stand in line for the Santa Justa elevator
One of the biggest tourist traps (or in my opinion) is to stand in the line for the Santa Justa lift, when you can reach the same view for free. This tip saves both your money and time. Normally tourists stand in the line for the reason to take them all the way up to the viewpoint and the cost is around 6 €… just to use the lift? When there actually is a way to experience the exact same viewpoint but for free.
Bring your own snacks and enjoy sunsets for free
Lisbon is full of viewpoints, or Miradouros as the locals call them, and the best thing about these is that they are free to enter. Most tourists buy expensive drinks and snacks at the miradouros and stand in line for the best table and view. But here´s the thing, you can enjoy the sunset without expensive drinks, queues and pressure. Just grab your own snacks, drinks and something to sit on and you’re ready to go. Watching the sunset in Lisbon is more than a view, it’s a daily ritual.
Don’t go on tram 28
Tram 28 used to be a very good way to explore all the famous attractions in Lisbon (and don’t get me wrong.. it’s still a great way to explore Lisbon), but now when it is that popular, it means waiting in line for hours, especially during high season. So instead take tram number 12 or just don’t hop on close to the Martin Moniz (the starting point of the tram), take another stop and skip the line. The tip is to go early and start at Campo Ourique which is the last stop on the route. This may encounter a shorter line and a higher chance of grabbing a seat by the window (for the best experience). Another alternative for the walking lovers – just walk the tram 28 route! You will find many hidden gems along the way, and colorful buildings.
Not having enough time
Yes, you can check off the main attractions during a couple of days but to get that full Lisbon experience you need more days to explore. But Lisbon isn’t a city of checklists. It’s a city full of life. Make a good plan each day, go to different neighbourhoods, eat in different areas and let it take time to explore. If you´re still short on time or visiting Lisbon for the first time, starting with awalking tour is the perfect way to explore the city. In just two hours, they will take you to all the most important and beautiful spots, especially in the Alfama neighbourhood, giving you history, stories and hidden gems. Once you visit Lisbon for the first time, you definitely wanna go back very soon.
Don’t miss the local neighbourhoods
Sticking only to the touristy spots is a big mistake. Lisbon brings curiosity, if you wander just a little further you will stumble upon hidden viewpoints, cafes, gardens or coastal walks that most visitors never see. So my best tip for you is to take that extra hour at a cafe, cross the Tagus river for a sunset you’ll never forget, and explore the different neighbourhoods like Alfama, Estrella, Belém and Alameda
Psst… Don’t go to Belém on mondays if you’re planning to visit theBelém tower or Jeronimos monastery since they are closed on mondays.
Don’t eat in the Baixa area
Most of the restaurants in the more touristy areas look good from the outside and it may attract people to sit on the famous shopping street to eat. The prices are pretty high and they get a negative opinion of Portuguese food which is a shame cause Portuguese food is delicious. Even locals try to avoid these restaurants in this area. So don’t make this mistake, instead, avoid eating in the Baixa area – go 10 min to Alfama or 10 min to Bairro alto area to a traditional tasca for amazing portuguese food.
Psst.. also if you’re visiting Lisbon during high season, don’t forget to book a restaurant in advance, especially for rooftops restaurants and bars around sunset time.
