Lisbon is undoubtedly one of the best European destinations to travel to in 2025. Portugal’s enchanting capital has cobblestone streets, a dynamic cultural scene, and incredible views, and it is home to the iconic pastel de nata.

A trip across the pond can be daunting, especially if you are visiting a new European city. Here are some tips for those visiting Lisbon for the first time:

• Many of its roads and streets are very steep (both the views and the walks will take your breath away). Remember to wear comfy shoes if you plan to embark on a free walking tour of Lisbon or explore the city’s many districts on foot.

• Lisbon is very well-connected via buses, trams, and the metro. A single ticket costs €1.85 and is valid for unlimited journeys within one hour.

• The currency in Portugal is the euro.

• Portugal is in the Greenwich Mean Time Zone (GMT), which is the same as the United Kingdom.

• Multibanco cash machines may have high fees or skimming risks. As a general rule, ATMs inside banks are safer.

Next, this article will explore five things first-timers should do in Portugal’s enchanting capital.

Hang Out At The LX Factory

The hipster neighborhood of Alcântara is home to an artsy commercial space, known as the LX Factory. The former industrial complex has a range of bars, restaurants, shops, and jewelers, as well as a library, a tattoo and piercing shop, and a hostel. The large outdoorsy courtyard also hosts a Sunday flea market.

LX Factory is open from 10:30am to 10:30pm from Monday to Friday, and 9am to 10:30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Ride The Tram 28

Tram 28 is an iconic yellow tram that dates back to the 1930s and remains part of the city’s public transportation system. However, it is also the perfect tourist activity as it passes through the popular districts of Baixa and Alfama and past significant landmarks such as the Basilica of Estrela, the Lisbon Cathedral, and Portas do Sol Viewpoint.

The tram can get very busy, so if you want a seat, it’s recommended to hop on board from the first stop (Martim Moniz) or the last stop (Campo Ourique).

The ticket for a single ride costs €1.85, which you can buy from the tram river or at the metro station.

Explore São Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle (Saint George’s Castle) is one of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks due to its impressive architecture and fascinating history. Sitting on top of the São Jorge hill, it also offers one of the best 360-degree views of the capital city and the Tagus River.

São Jorge Castle is open from 9am to 9pm daily. An adult ticket costs €15, those between the ages of 13 and 25 get a discounted price of €7.50, and children under 12 can visit for free.

Ride The Santa Justa Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator, also called Carmo Lift, is a 19th-century industrial-era lift that transports passengers 45 meters above the streets of Baixa to the Bairro Alto district. The views from the top are stunning.

Santa Justa Elevator is open daily from 7am to 11pm in the summer and from 7:30am to 8:30pm in the winter. You can buy a ticket from the sales office at the bottom of the lift for €5.30.

However, those wanting to avoid the long queues and ticket costs can climb the hidden stairs on Rua de Carmo, opposite H&M and to the left of Footlocker.

Get A Bite To Eat At Time Out Market

Time Out Market, formerly known as Mercado da Ribeira Nova, is the world’s first editorially curated food and culture market.

The 19th-century market brings Lisbon’s best restaurants, bars, and chefs all under one roof. It is the perfect place to try one of the city’s iconic pastel de natas.

Time Out Market is open from 10am to midnight daily.

Ready to Uncover Lisbon?

Lisbon is a stunning city with so much to see and do, whether you are visiting for the first time or returning. Public transport (including Tram 28), the Santa Justa Elevator, and São Jorge Castle are among the things included when you purchase a Lisboa Card, so consider this when visiting Portugal’s enchanting capital for the first time.