Annual reports show Lisbon is enjoying a new wave of popularity recently. With the arrival of new hotel chains, and museums opening in almost every neighborhood, the capital is fast becoming one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, especially after Eurovision 2018!

Portugal has extensive and beautiful golden beaches, yet tourists are fascinated by traditional cuisine. No wonder why foodie travelers have placed Lisbon as one of their top cities on their bucket list. 

Despite the hills and labyrinth of streets, Lisbon is an easy city to explore on foot. Despite this, if it's your first time planning a Lisbon trip, you might feel a bit lost. That's why we've prepared a quick destination guide with top 5 experiences in Lisbon, to help you find your footing. 

1. Indulge yourself with Portuguese food

Portugal has one of the best gastronomies in the world. From traditionally roasted meats to the freshest seafood dishes, visitors will be able to indulge in some of the best Portuguese recipes. One of the unmissable treats is the famous ''Pastel de Nata'' pastries, especially those from Pastéis de Belém where they have followed an ancient recipe since 1837.

If your customers are short on time or are looking to learn more about Portuguese cuisine, a great option is booking a food tour, such as the Gastronomic Route Walking Tour allowing them to eat like a local while enjoying the city's culture.

2. Go on a walking tour

Up hills and down narrow streets, the old neighborhoods of Lisbon offer everyone something special and unique to discover. Whether it's a pleasant walk by the Tagus river or visiting the magnificent Jeronimo Monastery, travelers have plenty of options to choose from. A walking tour is undoubtedly a perfect way to visit some of Lisbon's top attractions within just a few hours, perhaps you could suggest the Lisbon Walking Tour, upon which one will discover more about the history of the City of Seven Hills, before and after the devastating 1755 earthquake.

3. Discover Mouraria, Alfama and listen to Fado music

Fado music is the soul of Lisbon, Portugal’s folk music has a deep history, similar to Flamenco in Spain, or Mariachi in Mexico. Every neighborhood in Lisbon has something amazing to see, but Alfama is also famous for what you hear: Fado music. 

The oldest part of the capital is characterized by medieval streets and buildings once inhabited by the humblest workers, the bars that existed there in the early 19th-century gave shelter to some of the best Portuguese singers, and tourists and locals still enjoy music and the ambiance of the neighborhood over a glass of wine. If this sounds good then check out the Sunset Fado and Dinner where one will enjoy a Fado performance in a pretty palace, learn about the history of Fado, and sample classic Portuguese cuisine.

4. Enjoy the fantastic nightlife of Bairro Alto

There is a famous Lisbon saying: ''Life is good, but wine is better''. While Fernando Pessoa may have used this quote in a poetical sense, in Portugal, wine is a significant part of the culture and locals love to spend their late nights and weekends in bars and clubs, especially around Bairro Alto district. 
Later, i.e. at 2.a.m! the streets of Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré come to life with locals starting the night in underground bars, and smaller pubs, our top picks for drinks are Mezcal Bar, (Travessa da Água da Flor 20) and The Old Pharmacy (83, R. do Diário de Notícias 73).

5. Visit the markets

Lisbon has many markets and visiting them is a great way to embrace the local culture. They are perfect for anyone looking for souvenirs, fresh or traditional products, as well as fashion and vintage items. The largest market in Lisbon is the Mercado da Ribeira, a pavilion offering fresh produce and traditional meals prepared by the city’s top chefs, Feira da Ladra the ‘thieves fair' is the oldest flea market in Lisbon specializing in second hand and antiques, and a little further afield is LX Factory Sunday Market, situated in a hip art center surrounded by unique restaurants.

As you can see, Lisbon is packed with plenty see and do for all traveler types and budgets. Download our complete Lisbon Destination Guide to discover an exciting and packed two-day itinerary, with top eateries, attractions, and great places to stay in the capital.