Lisbon
Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, immediately captivated us with its unique mix of history, culture, and laid-back charm. From our accommodation, we explored the city both on foot and by riding the famous yellow trams – the perfect way to experience the lively atmosphere up close.
The charming neighborhoods with their narrow streets, traditional Portuguese tiled façades, and numerous viewpoints over the Tagus River kept amazing us. Whether in the historic streets of Alfama, on bustling squares, or in cozy cafés, Lisbon radiates a welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to just head out and explore.
In this section, we’ll show you:
The best ways to travel to Lisbon
Our accommodation recommendation and why the location was so convenient
The most beautiful corners of the city we discovered
Tips for culture, viewpoints, and relaxing breaks
Culinary highlights that stayed with us
Lisbon is a city you simply have to experience – and we’re certain we’ll be back.
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In July 2025, my girlfriend and I traveled to Lisbon, a city that instantly captivated us with its unique charm, colorful streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Our flight took us directly from Frankfurt to the Portuguese capital, where our city adventure began.
We chose a centrally located accommodation, which allowed us to explore the city easily on foot and with the famous yellow tram. We wandered through the narrow streets of Alfama, enjoyed the views from the miradouros over the sparkling Tagus River, and soaked up the street music and lively bustle all around.
Culinarily, Lisbon spoiled us with delicious petiscos, fresh salads, and of course, the famous pastéis de nata. The warm summer evenings, spent in small bars and on lively squares, are memories we’ll cherish.
Lisbon gave us unforgettable days full of discovery, flavor, and joy, a city we will definitely return to.
Getting to Lisbon
Provider: TAP Air Portugal
Cost: 508 euros per person, including checked baggage
Flight duration: About 3 hours from Frankfurt to Lisbon
On the way to Madeira, we had to make an unplanned stopover in Lisbon. Just before landing in Funchal, our flight was denied permission to land due to bad weather and had to turn back. So we landed back in Lisbon, where we were forced to spend a few days before being rebooked on the next flight to Madeira.
Despite the unexpected break, we used the time to explore the city a bit. Lisbon showed its charming side with narrow streets, stunning viewpoints, and delicious food. This involuntary stop turned into a nice addition to our trip.
After a few days, we finally continued on to Madeira, full of new impressions and excitement.
Our Accommodation in Lisbon
Boemio FLH Hotels, Lisbon
Location
Boemio FLH Hotels is centrally located in Lisbon, making it perfect for exploring the city on foot. Numerous cafés, restaurants, attractions, and shops are just a short walk away. The excellent public transport connections also make it easy to reach other parts of the city.Cost
Approx. €120 per night (last-minute booking)
Value for money: Very good✔ Positives
Very friendly and helpful staff
Stylish and authentic design with great attention to detail
Delicious breakfast with fresh ingredients
Free water, fruit, cake, and coffee available all day
After check-out, we were allowed to relax at the hotel until our Uber arrived – great service!
✖ Negatives
(No notable issues)
Conclusion
Boemio FLH Hotels stands out with its central location, authentic charm, and friendly service. The tasty breakfast and thoughtful extras like complimentary coffee and cake make the stay especially enjoyable. A clear recommendation for Lisbon.
Food in Lisbon
Tapa Bucho
Location
R. da Conceição 85, Lisbon
Our Impression
A small, charming restaurant with a modern yet cozy interior and an authentic, welcoming atmosphere. The staff was warm and attentive, and the food was fresh and creatively presented. We especially loved the varied selection of tapas.
Conclusion
A great spot in Lisbon to sample different tapas and end the evening in a relaxed setting.
Tip: Arrive early or make a reservation in advance, as it fills up quickly.
Dede´s
Location
Dede’s is located in the heart of Lisbon, on a quiet side street not far from the famous Avenida da Liberdade. Its central yet relaxed setting makes it an ideal spot to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Our Impression
Modern, stylish ambiance with a cozy atmosphere. The tasteful decor, with attention to detail, invites you to linger. The food is fresh, creatively prepared, and delicious. We especially enjoyed the blend of international influences with Portuguese ingredients.
Conclusion
A great place in Lisbon for anyone who wants to enjoy good food in a modern, relaxed urban atmosphere.
Manteigaria
Location
R. do Loreto 2, Lisbon
Our Impression
Famous for its freshly baked Pastéis de Nata — and rightly so. This small, busy bakery has an authentic charm, and you can even watch the bakers preparing these delicious treats. The tarts are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and simply heavenly when still warm from the oven.
Conclusion
A must-visit for everyone exploring Lisbon, offering Pastéis de Nata at the highest quality.
Tip: Best enjoyed fresh and warm, paired with an espresso.
Activities in Lisbon
Lisbon is not only Portugal’s charming capital but also a city full of life, history, and unique experiences. Between pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and breathtaking viewpoints, a blend of tradition and modernity unfolds that captivates every visitor.
Whether you wander through the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, ride the nostalgic Tram 28, or enjoy the view from a miradouro over the city and the Tagus River, Lisbon offers countless ways to discover the city your own way.
In this section, we’ll show you the best experiences and sights in Lisbon that will make your stay unforgettable. From cultural highlights and culinary discoveries to relaxing moments in the city’s charming streets and squares.
Historic Tram 28 Ride through Lisbon
Location & Route
The famous tram line 28 in Lisbon connects several of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods, including Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. The nostalgic yellow tram starts, among other stops, at Martim Moniz and winds its way through narrow streets, past churches, squares, and historic buildings.
Ride & Experience
For around €3 per person (or cheaper with the Viva Viagem card), you get a 40 to 50-minute ride that doubles as a sightseeing tour and an authentic Lisbon experience. The old wooden trams rattle charmingly along the tracks.
Tip: To avoid long waits, it’s best to board at the next stop after the starting station Martim Moniz, for example at Igreja dos Anjos. At Martim Moniz, we waited about 1.5 hours because only a limited number of passengers are allowed in at once. The tram is relatively small and has only one carriage. At other stops, there usually aren’t such limits or long waits, and the tram wasn’t overcrowded when we rode it.
Starting point of Tram 28: PV87+5J Lisbon, Portugal
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Location
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is located in the Bairro Alto district and offers one of the best panoramic views over Lisbon. From here, you can see the Castelo de São Jorge, the old town neighborhoods, and the Tagus River.
Atmosphere
The viewpoint is built on two levels and surrounded by well-kept gardens, benches, and sculptures. Especially in the late afternoon, when the warm light falls over the city, it creates a magical atmosphere.
Our impression
A beautiful spot to take a break, enjoy the view, and watch the city from above. Also ideal for a stop on your way to or from Bairro Alto.
Conclusion
For us, one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon, perfect for photos, relaxing, or just enjoying the moment.
Tip: In the evening, the square is often accompanied by street musicians, adding a special vibe.
Mercado da Ribeira
Location
The Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is located in the Bairro Alto district and offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views over Lisbon. From here, you can see the Castelo de São Jorge, the old town quarters, and the Tagus River.
Atmosphere
The viewpoint is laid out on two levels and surrounded by well-kept gardens, benches, and sculptures. In the late afternoon, when the warm light falls over the city, it creates a truly magical mood.
Our impression
A wonderful place to take a short break, enjoy the view, and watch the city’s hustle and bustle from above. Also perfect for a stop on the way to or from Bairro Alto.
Conclusion
For us, it’s one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon, perfect for taking photos, relaxing, or simply enjoying the moment.
Tip: In the evening, street musicians often play here, adding to the special atmosphere.
Ponte 25 de Abril & Cristo Rei
From the waterfront promenade in Lisbon, you can see the Ponte 25 de Abril, a large suspension bridge that connects the city with the opposite side of the river. On the other side stands the Cristo Rei statue, a popular viewpoint with a view over Lisbon and the Tagus. Both sights can be easily admired from the riverside..
Arco da Rua Augusta
The Arco da Rua Augusta is an impressive arch at the end of the well-known shopping street Rua Augusta in the heart of Lisbon. The structure leads to the Praça do Comércio, the large square right by the Tagus River. You can climb the arch and enjoy a great view over the city center and the river. It is a popular spot to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio is one of the most famous squares in Lisbon. It is located right on the Tagus River and was once the main gateway to the city for merchants and visitors. The square is surrounded by elegant buildings with arcades and offers plenty of space for walking and relaxing. In the center stands the statue of King José I. At the northern end, the Arco da Rua Augusta connects the square with the old town. It is a central and lively place that combines history and city life.
Elevador de Santa Justa
The Elevador de Santa Justa is a historic elevator in the heart of Lisbon that connects the lower district of Baixa with the higher Chiado neighborhood. Built in the early 20th century, it provides a quick and practical link between the two areas. The ride costs about 5 euros (as of 2025) for a round trip. At the top, there is a viewing platform offering a great view over the city, Baixa, and the Castelo de São Jorge.
Teatro Nacional D. Maria II
The Teatro Nacional D. Maria II is one of the most important theaters in Lisbon. It is located on Praça Dom Pedro IV, also known as Rossio, in the heart of the city. The neoclassical building was constructed in the mid-19th century and is named after Queen Maria II. The theater is known for its diverse program of both classic and contemporary plays and is considered a cultural landmark of the city. Visitors can enjoy performances as well as admire the impressive architecture and beautiful foyer.
Lisbon City Hall
Lisbon City Hall is located on Praça do Município in the city center. The neoclassical building houses the city’s administrative offices and plays a key role in municipal decision-making. Built in the 19th century, it impresses with its grand façade and elegant architecture. Visitors can usually only admire it from the outside, as it functions as an administrative building. It is situated close to other attractions and serves as a central point in historic Lisbon.
Our Conclusion on Lisbon
Lisbon quickly won us over with its unique charm: stunning views from a viewpoint, relaxed walks through the oldest district, and a ride on the famous tram line 28 that took us across the city.
We made the most of our time and got a great insight into the city’s diversity. Lisbon is lively, charming and full of history, perfect for discovering a lot even in a short time. We will definitely be back!