Lisbon’s city center is filled with historic squares that many guides list as must-see attractions: Rossio Square, Restauradores Square, Figueira Square, and Marquês de Pombal Square. Each of them holds a piece of Lisbon’s history, from the reconstruction that followed the 1755 earthquake to the urban development of the 19th and 20th centuries. Rossio Square…
No trip to Lisbon is complete without visiting Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio), one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located along the Tagus River, this grand square has been the center of Portuguese commerce and government since the 18th century, following the reconstruction of Lisbon after the devastating 1755 earthquake. Walking through the square,…
The National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga) is one of Lisbon’s most important cultural institutions for anyone interested in history and art. Housed in a 17th-century palace that once belonged to the Counts of Alvor, the museum was established in 1884 and holds Portugal’s most comprehensive collection of fine arts from…
Visiting the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) in Lisbon’s Belém district is a great way to combine sightseeing with a scenic walk along the waterfront. Built in 1960 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator’s death, the monument honors the Portuguese explorers who played a key role during the Age of…
The Belem Tower (Torre de Belém) in Lisbon is one of most recognizable landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands proudly on the banks of the Tagus River. Built in the early 16th century, during the height of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, it once served as a fortress and ceremonial gateway to the…
One of the most talked-about things to do in Lisbon is taking a ride on the historic Tram 28, the iconic yellow tram that winds its way through the city’s narrow streets and steep hills. It’s often described as a must-do experience for first-time visitors, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Lisbon’s old neighborhoods like Graça,…
The National Museum of Science & Natural History (Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência) in Lisbon offers an intriguing glimpse into the world of science, nature, and human discovery. Located in the heart of the city, near the University of Lisbon, this museum has a long academic history dating back to the 18th…
If you’re exploring the Belém district – home to some of the most famous landmarks in Lisbon, such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower – don’t miss the MAC/CCB Museum of Contemporary Art (Museu de Arte Contemporânea). Located inside the Centro Cultural de Belém (CCB), this museum offers a refreshing contrast to the area’s…
Visiting Sao Jorge Castle in Lisbon was one of those experiences that truly captures the charm of the city. This beautiful hilltop fortress is not just a historic site – it’s also one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon. The castle is especially worth visiting on a clear, sunny day when…
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Lisbon, don’t miss the Medeiros & Almeida Museum (Museu Medeiros e Almeida) – one of the city’s true hidden gems. Among all the Lisbon museums I visited, this one stood out as particularly fascinating. Located just off Avenida da Liberdade, this elegant house-museum preserves the private…