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Lisbon is one of the best places to visit as a tourist. There are many activities that suit people of all ages, and while visiting, you will also find interesting events to attend. Since there are so many possibilities, narrowing down to the best choice of places to visit or events to go for can be overwhelming. Some of the tips that can be used to find the best events and places to visit in Lisbon are as follows.

Do Research

If you have never been to Lisbon, you should find as much information as you can about the places you intend to visit. Check out different websites and read reviews on accommodation, personal experiences, and other details that can help you make a decision on whether the place you want to visit is a good fit.

Work With an Agent

If you feel like you do not have the time to do research, you should consider working with an agent to help you identify the best places to visit. Since most agents are always aware of upcoming events and the best places to get deals, you are more likely to get a good recommendation. You should know what you want so that the agent can help you narrow down your choices.

Ask for Recommendations

Sometimes, the best tip on how to get the best events and places to visit is to ask for recommendations. Many travel bloggers have visited or stayed in Lisbon who would be willing to give their recommendations. You can also use social media platforms to get recommendations.

The best tip, however, is being adventurous. Be willing to try out something new and different. Once you get suitable accommodation and you figure out how to get transport around Lisbon, you should be able to explore many fun activities.

If you are thinking of visiting Lisbon, Portugal, there are some things that you need to know about the city and the people. Portugal is known for solo travels, but Lisbon stands out to be a preferred destination for family holiday goers because there is plenty to see in Lisbon. Here we have put a list of some essential tips that you should know before visiting Lisbon.

Travellers Guide

• Lisbon Is a Portuguese City

When travelling to Lisbon, you should be aware that the people speak Portuguese and, if possible, teach yourself one or two Portuguese words. Though you may find some English or Spanish speakers around the city, this may not be the case if you are travelling to the rural parts of Lisbon.

• Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Lisbon is between March/April to late September during the summer, while the winter/autumn season, which is between October to mid-March, is perfect for visitors who do not mind a little rain. June is the busiest month, especially during the St. Anthony festival, while January is the quietest month because of the fewer activities which fall during the time of the year.

• How to Get There

If you are travelling from other parts of Europe or any region around the world, the easiest way to get to Lisbon is by flying. We have daily flights connecting Lisbon to other major cities, and with Portugal being a member of the European Union, citizens only require their citizenship card to access Lisbon, while visitors from other countries may require valid visas or passports.

• Getting Around

Getting around Lisbon is easy as there are many cab-hailing operators as well as other means of public transport such as buses and trains. The road network is also well developed, such that it’s easy to access even the rural areas of Lisbon with ease.

During summer, Lisbon transforms into a perfect destination for party lovers even as various festivals electrify the atmosphere of this Portuguese capital. Here are some of the best summer festivals that party goers can enjoy in the city.

Festas De Lisboa

This festival signals the start of summer festivals. It is a month-long series of parades and street parties. The quiet neighborhoods in the city become lively due to live music, celebrations and dance which last until dawn. Festa De Lisboa reaches its peak on the eve of St. Anthony’s Day, which is on 13th June. Mass weddings also take place during this time (the St. Anthony’s Weddings). The entire city comes to life and every corner is filled with colourful decorations. The special sunset parade that takes place along the Avenida da Liberdade is one of the highlights of the festival. Roads are closed and the city is filled with the aroma of grilled sardines accompanied by the sound of Fado music.

Nos Alive

Lisbon’s Nos Alive offers three days of the best musical talents that Europe has to offer. Music lovers rush to Portugal to experience one of the most fabulous contemporary music festivals. The music ranges from soul to house rock to electro music and everything in between.

Estoril Music Festival

Traditionally, this festival occurs in July. Here, three separate music festivals are brought together to create a unique classical music extravaganza. Different kinds of music like orchestras and chamber choirs are performed. Besides that, both the local and international artists take to the stage and perform in different venues in the city.

Jazz Em Agosto

This ten-day music festival occurs at the Gulbenkian gardens. It starts on 1st August and ends on 11th of the same month. Since 1984, this festival has played host to various renowned international jazz musicians. It is one of the best outdoor music festivals in Lisbon.

Portugal is known for its powerful waves on the Atlantic coast, as well as some of the world’s biggest waves ridden further up north in Praia do Norte in Nazare. Lisbon is a beautiful destination for surf tourists because the nearest surf spots are just a short ride away with local transport. There are several surf shops nearby where one can rent a board, a wetsuit, or take classes.

Surf Spots Near Lisbon

Carcavelos is perhaps the most famous spot near Lisbon. It has consistent waves all year round, and one can get there by car in 15 minutes, or by local train. Costa de Caparica is a 30 km long beach to the south of Lisbon. It offers a wide variety of left and right breaks, suitable for all levels. Intermediate or advanced surfers should check out Praia da Poca, a reef break with a large and heavy wave.

What to Take Into Account When Surfing in Lisbon

First, the water off the Portuguese Atlantic coast is always cold, so a wetsuit is needed all year round. During the colder seasons, one might need a hood, boots and gloves in addition to a thick wetsuit. Secondly, winds tend to be strong and may eradicate the waves, so check wind reports in advance. The only way to avoid the winds may be to get in the water very early in the morning, or around sunset. Third, check the wave reports to make sure there are waves, to avoid a futile trip to the beach. If you are surfing by yourself, ask locals about possible dangers such as rocks, strong currents, or extreme tides. The waves in the Atlantic can be mighty and dangerous, so do not venture into the ocean in conditions you might not be able to handle, especially if surfing alone. The Lisbon coast is popular with surfers, so keep to surf spots where you see others.

If you are looking for a pocket-friendly city in Europe, then Lisbon is one of them. Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, doesn’t only offer exceptional value for food and drink, the city also has historical monuments worth visiting if this happens to be your next holiday destination. Here are five places you should never leave Lisbon without visiting.

Jeronimos Monastery

Also known as Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Belem, this magnificent monastery is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This is where Vasco da Gama started his journey to colonising India. Having taken a whole century to build, the monastery remains an artistic monument worth paying a visit.

Alfama District

Iconic! This is the best way to describe the Alfama district whose rustic outlook provides a great picture for the eyes to feast on. The area’s outstanding medieval buildings and tiny streets give the place a unique charm making it one of the most visited places in Lisbon. It is rich in history and Portuguese culture, which makes it a must-visit if you are interested in knowing more about the country and its people.

Belem Tower

The tower has also made it to the list of the World Heritage Sites. It’s built using a unique stone which is quite rare to find. It is also next to the sea, and the architecture is out of this world. Art and culture lovers will have fun feasting their eyes on this monumental tower.

Chiado Square

This square is named after António Ribeiro, who was a satirist. It pays tribute to António whose nickname was also Chiado with a bronze statue of him in the centre. The square’s beautiful streets provide picturesque spots for photography lovers.

Praca Do Comercio

Also known as Terreiro do Paco, this square is beautifully decorated. It also has a King Jose I statue on a horse right in the middle. This is also where the central tourism office is.