First time in Lisbon | All You Need To Know
before you plan your first trip to Lisbon, read this
Whether you’ve been following along for a while or you’re new here, there’s one thing you should know about me…I’m obsessed with Portugal. I’ve been fortunate to travel there multiple times, and each time I return, I discover something new that makes me fall in love with the country all over again. And Lisbon? It’s the beating heart of Portugal—a city bursting with charm, color, history, and flavor.
If you’re planning your very first trip to Lisbon, this guide is designed with you in mind. Think of it as a friendly introduction: the neighborhoods, the vibe, the logistics, and the must-know tips that will help you settle in smoothly. Later, you can dive deeper into all the best things to do and see in Lisbon (I’ll be sharing that in my next blog post). For now, let’s get you oriented so you can hit the ground running.
View overlooking the city of Lisbon from Castelo Rodrigo
why Lisbon belongs on your travel list
Lisbon has the perfect balance of sightseeing and local immersion. One moment you’re wandering cobblestone alleys lined with azulejos (those iconic blue tiles), the next you’re sipping coffee at a leafy square, listening to the sounds of trams rattling by.
The Portuguese people are warm, friendly, and welcoming—and most speak excellent English—so it’s easy to connect and feel at home quickly. The city is generally safe, but as in any big European capital, keep an eye out for petty theft in crowded areas.
And a heads-up: Lisbon is a very hilly city (think San Francisco vibes). Comfortable shoes are a must, and those gorgeous mosaic sidewalks can be slippery when wet. Consider it part of the adventure—you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking viewpoints (miradouros) at the top of nearly every climb.
Lisbon is very hilly but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.
getting around lisbon
Lisbon has an excellent public transportation system that makes exploring easy: trams, buses, metro, funiculars, and even ferries. Here are a few essentials:
Lisboa Card: A must-have for first-timers. This pass gives you unlimited travel on public transport plus free or discounted entry to many attractions (like the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Santa Justa Elevator). Pro tip: order it before your trip so it’s ready for pickup when you arrive.
Metro: Clean, safe, and efficient, with many stations decorated in colorful contemporary art.
Trams & Funiculars: The iconic Tram 28 is a bucket-list ride, winding through historic neighborhoods. You can also hop on funiculars like Elevador da Bica or Elevador da Glória for a fun (and less strenuous) way to tackle those hills.
local tips for first time visitors
Lisbon moves at its own rhythm, and adjusting to it makes your trip feel more authentic:
Dining times: Lunch usually happens between 1:00–3:00 PM and dinner often starts after 8:00 PM. Don’t worry—you’ll get used to it.
Reservations: For popular restaurants (especially at dinner), it’s wise to book ahead.
Casual charm: While Lisbon has some fine dining options, much of its magic lies in casual tascas (local eateries). Don’t be afraid to try neighborhood spots away from the main streets.
where to stay in lisbon
Neighborhood choice makes a big difference in Lisbon. Here are my top picks for first-time visitors:
Chiado & Bairro Alto: Perfect if you want to be in the heart of it all, surrounded by shops, cafes, and easy access to key sights.
Principe Real: A little quieter, but still very walkable. Think trendy boutiques, leafy gardens, and local markets—a neighborhood that feels like home.
Some of my favorite hotels include:
The Lumiares Hotel & Spa (Bairro Alto): A chic 5-star stay with apartment-style rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and extra perks when booked through me.
The Vintage Lisbon (Principe Real): Warm, stylish, and full of character—each room even comes with a vintage bar cart for mixing your own gin and tonic.
AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado: Boutique and intimate, located right in the heart of Old Town near the waterfront.
Not sure which neighborhood fits your style? I’d love to help you narrow it down—and when booked through me, you often get perks like complimentary breakfast, credits, and room upgrades.
No matter the weather, make sure to wander through these neighborhoods…they take you off the the beaten path and let you see the best of Lisbon!
quick must sees (more to come in my next post!)
Since this is an orientation guide, I’ll keep it brief—but here are a few highlights to get excited about:
Alfama: The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, where you can wander winding streets, hear Fado music, and take in views from Castelo de São Jorge.
Belém: Home to the iconic Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the birthplace of the famous pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart).
Baixa & Chiado: Lively downtown areas with elegant squares, the Arco da Rua Augusta, and great shopping.
Miradouros: Scenic viewpoints scattered across the city—perfect for catching sunsets with a cocktail in hand.
I’ll dive into all of these in detail in my upcoming Top Things to Do in Lisbon blog, so stay tuned!
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Curious what a sidecar tour in Lisbon will look like?
make the most of your first visit
One of my favorite tips for new visitors is to start your trip with a walking tour, tuk tuk ride, or even a quirky sidecar tour. Local guides share stories and shortcuts you’d never find on your own, giving you a deeper connection to the city right from the start.
And of course, don’t leave Lisbon without sampling a pastel de nata. I recommend starting at Manteigaria—in my opinion, the best in the city.
One of the best ways to experience Lisbon is through a walking tour, a tut-tut, or a sidecar tour.
ready to plan your lisbon adventure?
Lisbon is a city you’ll never forget, and chances are, you’ll be planning your return trip before you’ve even left. Whether you’re staying three days or a full week, it’s a destination that delivers on history, beauty, and soul-stirring charm.
Want more details? Download my free Lisbon guide here, complete with a three-day itinerary, restaurant picks, and insider tips to help you plan your perfect trip.
And if you’d like a custom itinerary or help booking hotels (with perks and upgrades at no extra cost), send me a note at juli@celebrateandexplore.com. I’d love to help make your Lisbon trip unforgettable.
Celebrate and Explore in Lisbon!
