Portugal has one of the largest Dave Matthews Band fan bases outside of the United States, so it’s no surprise they chose Lisbon for the last stop of their 2024 European tour. Lots of US fans are making the trek to the “city of seven hills” for the show on May 5, 2024.
My husband James and I visited Lisbon in October 2022 and fell in love with the city. I’ve included some of the top things to do below in addition to some of our favorite tips and tricks.
Top things to do in Lisbon!
Wander through Alfama: This historic neighborhood is known for its narrow streets, medieval houses, and fado music.
Take a day trip to Sintra: Sintra is a beautiful town located in the hills outside of Lisbon. It is known for its romantic palaces, gardens, and estates. (I’ve recommended some tours below, it’s beautiful!)
Go up the Santa Justa Lift: This elevator offers stunning views of the city.
Ride Tram 28: This iconic yellow tram is a great way to see the city and experience the old-fashioned way of life. Be prepared for crowds and long lines,
Explore Belém: This historic district is home to some of Lisbon’s most popular landmarks, including the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower.
Visit the São Jorge Castle: This Moorish castle offers stunning views of the city. You can also explore the castle grounds and learn about Lisbon’s history.
Try the local food: Lisbon is a great city for foodies, with a wide variety of traditional Portuguese dishes to try. Some of the must-try dishes include pastel de nata (a custard tart), bacalhau (salt cod), and francesinha (a sandwich filled with meat, sausage, and cheese).
Visit the Jerónimos Monastery: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautiful example of Manueline architecture.
See the National Tile Museum: This museum is home to a collection of Portuguese tiles, or azulejos.
Explore the LX Factory: This former industrial complex has been transformed into a trendy neighborhood with shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries.
Lisbon’s A Ginjinha bar, also known as Ginjinha Espinheira, is a tiny, historic establishment famous for its cherry liqueur served in small chocolate cups or glasses.
Visit Time Out Market food hall where you can sample all sorts of Portuguese cuisine under one roof.
Visit the Lisbon Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in the city. Tickets
Visit the Livraria Bertrand, the oldest bookstore in the world.
Explore Lisbon’s street art scene. The city is full of colorful murals and graffiti, especially in the neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Mouraria.
From my experience in Lisbon I would consider a Tuk Tuk Tour to see the sights, a day trip to Sintra, and perhaps a food tour. As you can see below, the Sintra tours are all very high rated and there are some really amazing food tours as well!
Lisbon Tours:
Tours to Sintra
Sintra Full-Day Private Tour – A Journey through Wonderland
Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon
Guided Tour to Sintra Pena Regaleira Roca Boca do Inferno and Cascais
Sintra Private Tour: a dreamlike experience
Sintra Small-Group with Regaleira, Pena Palace, Roca and Cascais
Small group tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, pass by Regaleira, Cabo Roca, Cascais
Sintra Small Group Tour from Lisbon: Pena Palace ticket included
HALF-DAY Sintra & Pena Palace Tour From Lisbon, Small-Group
Tuk Tuk Tours
True 4Hour/Half Day Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon – Local Overview
Lisbon: Half Day Sightseeing Tour on a Private Electric Tuk Tuk
Lisbon Historical Private Tuk Tuk Tour
Food Tours
Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour with Eating Europe
Lisbon Small-Group Portuguese Food and Wine Tour
Portuguese Cuisine: 17 Tastings Lisbon Food Tour
