Location on the map of Lisbon & Center (Portugal)

Things to do in Lisbon: Tagus River Sunset Sailing

Many of us know that Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Starting with the picturesque old town and getting to the breathtaking views of the coast and the beaches, The Portuguese capital is full of tourists for a reason. Nevertheless, if you are looking for new ways to discover Lisbon, a cruise along the Tagus River at the sunset is a good option.

A boat tour on the Rio Tejo is a unique experience that allows you to discover the beautiful city of Lisbon in a whole new light.

Lisbon old city

Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly and coastal capital city. From its imposing São Jorge Castle, the view surrounds the city’s pastel-colored buildings, Tagus Estuary and also Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge.

Tourists fall in love with the old districts like Mouraria, Graça and Alfama and you will soon understand why. Visitors here wander the steep cobbled streets of the bohemian Bairro Alto to ride the Bica Funicular, then they visit the lavish São Roque Church and later on take in the views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.

Many of the houses from the old Lisbon are decorated with vivid street art. Moreover, after sundown, a diverse crowd fills the city and the quirky bars, while the sound of Fado music is heard from traditional restaurants.

Tagus River Sunset Sailing

Photo: Tagus River Sunset Sailing.

SPENDING ONE DAY IN LISBON

Although it is placed on seven hills, Lisbon is a pedestrian-friendly city and you can truly appreciate its charm by walking. Still, one day is not nearly enough time to experience the wonders of this ancient and majestic city.

The Jeronimos Monastery. Lisbon

Photo: The Jeronimos Monastery. Lisbon.

If you have little time for this city, these are the best things to do in Lisbon in a day:

  • Start with breakfast in Chiado

  • Walk to the Praça do Comércio

  • Consider a walking tour of Lisbon (or a Tuk Tuk Tour)

  • Visit the Sao Jorge Castle

  • Break for lunch, then travel to Belem

  • See the Tower of Belem

  • Check out the Jeronimos Monastery

  • Think about taking a Sunset cruise

  • Go to Bairro Alto for dinner and drinks

Rua Augusta Arch. Lisbon

Photo: Rua Augusta Arch. Lisbon.

The Moorish Alfama quarter in Lisbon

Lisbon´s Alfama quarter is one of the oldest and the most historical part of the Portuguese capital. Medieval in character, the Alfama is the most atmospheric neighborhood and it is the ideal place for visitors who want to get their first impressions for this city.

In this quarter you can visit the imposing Castle of São Jorge, the Sé Cathedral, or the church of Santo António (which is the city’s favorite saint), among other places. Besides, Lisbon’s most popular flea market can be found in the heart of the Alfama.

Street Artists in Lisbon

Photo: Street Artists in Lisbon.

Lisbon´s tramway

The trams in Lisbon are a very useful mean of transport and at the same time are one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

The Portuguese capital counts with 5 different routes and 58 trams, out of which 40 are vintage streetcars. The most famous tram in Lisbon is Tram 28 that goes from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique.

Lisbon´s tramway

Photo: Lisbon´s tramway.

The legacy trams in Lisbon are small, nostalgic and an emblematic symbol of the city

The funicular in Lisbon

The lifts or elevators from Lisbon are funiculars that help people climb the steep and long slopes from the city in a comfortable and convenient way. Listed as national monuments, they have survived due to the hills of the capital.

Lisbon counts with 3 funicular railways: Glória, Bica, and Lavra.

The streets in the Portuguese capital make for great vintage photos. As a matter of fact, the photos in Lisbon that include the funicular trams are very representative.

Lisbon at night

Whether you love dancing or you prefer laid-back socializing, there are many great things to do in Lisbon at night. Artistic, multicultural, and progressive, Lisbon has something for everyone.

Lisbon at night

Photo: Lisbon at night. Yann Cœuru. Adapted under license (CC BY 2.0)

Among the best things to do in Lisbon at night there are:

  • Enjoy a drink with a view

  • Book a moonlight tour

  • Visit Lisbon’s pink street

  • Get a view from a rooftop bar

  • Enjoy dinner and the fado music

  • Take a cruise at night

Restaurant in Lisbon. Portugal

Photo: Restaurant in Lisbon. Portugal.

When talking about nightlife, Lisbon has a lot to offer

Lisbon’s Pink Street

Photo: Lisbon’s Pink Street.

THE TAGUS RIVER OR RIO TEJO FROM LISBON