Built across seven hills above the Tagus River, Lisbon runs on historic trams and funiculars as much as on foot, with Belem's monastery and custard tarts at one end of the city and the fado-filled lanes of Alfama at the other.
Planning a Lisbon trip
For the full Lisbon travel guide, or jump straight to a section:
Day-by-day itineraries
Frequently asked questions
Is Lisbon walkable?
The center is compact, but genuinely hilly — comfortable shoes matter more here than in most European capitals, and the historic trams and funiculars exist specifically to help with the hills.
How many days do I need in Lisbon?
3-4 days covers the city itself; add a full day for Sintra, which deserves more than a rushed half-day.
Do I need to book Sintra's Pena Palace in advance?
Yes — timed tickets are strongly recommended in peak season, since Sintra draws heavy day-trip crowds from Lisbon.
Is Lisbon expensive?
It is one of the more affordable Western European capitals, though prices have risen in recent years, particularly for central accommodation.