Activities for International Travelers Visiting Lisbon for the First Time

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is interestingly cosmopolitan, but laid back. At the same time, it combines attractions that are both modern and historic. For a first-time tourist in this western European metropolis, it can be seen as a picturesque port city filled with charming rolling hills, cobblestone streets and mosaic sidewalks with a unique and very distinct multicultural environment.

Experiencing the diversity of this all-season destination means enjoying a variety of both the modernity and the centuries-old sights and sounds of the city. While many areas retain a medieval atmosphere, there are also destinations showcasing chic and modern dining and shopping spots.

Lisbon, referred to as Lisboa in Portuguese, offers a number of amusing and engaging activities for international travelers who want to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture.

Ride the Tram 28

For a very cheap fee, Lisbon tourists can take the vintage tram that takes them on a scenic trip from the city center to the narrow maze of streets leading to the St. George Castle. This allows passengers to reach some of the best view points in the city. With its affordable cost and the convenience of using the Euro Day Pass for it, many first-timers actually try it again as each scenic route can actually bring something new for them.

Explore Grand Structures and Architectural Sites

There are dozens of options for grand structures and architectural sites to visit in Lisbon. One of the most popular ones for international tourists is the Santa Justa's Elevator, which was designed by Gustav Eiffel's apprentice. Known as one of the main symbols of the city, it features an activity ride with a marvelous view from atop its slightly rickety spiral staircase. Another iconic sight is the Belem Tower, a monument acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A number of castles, palaces, churches and monasteries are also ideal attractions for tourists. Two of the most famous ones include the Foz Palace and the Jeronimos Monastery.

Visit Museums and Arts and Culture Centers

The Theater Nacional Museum allows tourists to take a walk down the history of theater and enjoy its exhibition of antiquities. Film lovers can visit the Portuguese Film Museum-Cinema Museum, which houses a permanent Portuguese collection of cameras, books, photographs and films from the pre-cinema to the proto-cinema periods. Those interested in plants and gardens can explore the Tropical Agricultural Garden Museum, a more-than-a-century-old museum with over seven acres of space dedicated to a variety of plants and collections of tiles, woodcuttings and orther green-related artworks. Other interesting arts and culture spots that are worth a visit include the Modern Art Center, the Fado and Portuguease Guitar House and the Ancient Art National Museum.

Shop in Local Malls and Markets

Apart from its surviving historic shops, Garrett Street features a timeless stretch of up market shops. It is also known for the huge presence of shoppers, authors, artists and intellectuals frequently visiting the area. The city's flea market, locally called Feira da Ladra, is an interesting strolling and shopping spot filled with books, discs, clothes and novelty items. Lisbon's Chiado area is a fashion and arts center that is home to many fashion houses, art nouveau cafes, galleries and bookshops. Those wanting to check out local shopping malls and department stores can try the Dolce Vita Tejo, Colombo and El Corte Ingles.

Dining at the Bairro Alto District

Lisbon's Bairro Alto District, a picturesque area for artists and writers, hosts the city's largest cluster of premier dining destinations. Those wanting to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine can go to Pap' Acorda or 100 Maneiras. Local and tourist vegans and vegetarians are often seen dining at Jardim dos Sentidos and Terra. Meanwhile, meat lovers and international cuisine enthusiasts can try the tapa dishes at El Gordo Tapa and the Italian gourmet offerings at Casa Nostra.