Lisbon City Guide: Smart itineraries, local hotspots and budgte tips

Written by: Kurt Hambadda
Date: 14.08.26

Planning a trip to Lisbon? Well, you’re certainly not alone. Portugal’s capital has exploded in worldwide popularity in recent years, welcoming over 10 million international visitors annually. In fact, with an estimated population of just over 600,000, the City of Seven Hills now sees roughly 15 tourists per resident ranking it the 8th most tourist-dense capital in the world.
And yet, the real magic of Lisboa lies somewhere beyond the packed cruise ships, hour-long waits for Tram 28, and endless tuk-tuk traffic. Which is why AXA compiledthe Lisbon expert guide below. With our first-hand local know-how, flexible itineraries, and insider safety and culture tips, you can explore the capital like a true Lisboeta!

⚡Visiting Lisbon: Smart Travel Brief

Conquering Europe's hilliest capital requires a mix of strategic neighborhood pacing and solid footwear allowing you to bypass tourist trap fatigue entirely.

  • Ideal location + duration: Stay west or northwest of downtown. And 2 to 4 days allows you to comfortably cover the historic center, enjoy a slow waterfront afternoon, and take a full-day trip to the outskirts.
     
  • Safety: Stay alert in crowded transit corridors, Mouraria, and around Martim Moniz Square. Pickpocketing and aggressive street sellers peddling fake substances are common.
     
  • Top money saver: Get a 50-cent Navegante transit card at any major station and choose the "Zapping" pay-as-you-go balance option to unlock the cheapest indiscriminate travel rates.
     
  • Must-pack item: Sturdy sneakers with exceptional rubber traction to keep from slipping on Lisbon's slick, highly polished limestone cobblestones.
     
  • Entry paperwork: Secure an approved Schengen visa (if your passport requires on) and mandatory Schengen travel insurance.

Lisbon city guide: general overview


Getting Around Lisbon: Airport Transfers and Public Transport

Lisbon is surprisingly easy to explore without a car. Here’s how to get from the airport to the city center and which transport options are best for getting around once you’re there.

How to Get from Lisbon Airport to the City Center


✈️ Humberto Delgado Airport to Lisbon center:

  • The fastest/cheapest option: The Lisbon metro gets you straight from Terminal 1 (Arrivals) to downtown Lisbon. Take the Red Line to Alameda station, transfer there to the Green Line, and continue to Rossio, Baixa Chiado, or Cais do Sodre (the final stop) — all three are in the center.
    A single ticket fare is €1.90, and the whole journey takes about 20 minutes.
     
  • Uber, Bolt (second cheapest): A very common option too, especially late night/early morning (a ride can be as low as 5€, and usually takes 15-30 mins, traffic and pick-up/drop-off pending).
    NOTE: From arrivals, go left past the Starbucks to Level 2, the P2 parking lot (short-stay), and follow the "Uber/Bolt" and "Kiss & Fly" signs
     
  • Taxis: And metered taxis queue outside Terminal 1 too. Rides to (and from) the city center cost €12 to €20 (with a fixed €1.60 surcharge for luggage over 55cm).

How to Get Around Lisbon

  • The best way: Walk the central districts (but, again, prepare for stairs). Use the Metro, Carris trams and buses, and Comboios de Portugal for more remote areas (Belém, Cascais, Sintra, the beaches).
     
  • Bikes and boats: E-bikes and e-scooters are also a common choice especially along the Tagus (aka Tejo river), where it’s mostly flat.
    And to get across the Tagus, use the Transtejo Ferries (10-20 mins, €1,50 - €3,20).
     
  • Public transport vs. car: Avoid renting a car unless absolutely necessary. Severe gridlock, narrow historic corridors, costly parking, and strict local low-emission enforcement zones make driving really tricky.

⚠️ The cobblestone hazard: Worn down by centuries of billions of footsteps, Lisbon's historic white limestone pavement (aka “calçada portuguesa”) can be blindsidingly slick. Especially when it rains. So wear shoes with rubber traction grips. Or do like the locals and walk in the street on hills (traffic pending, of course).

Local transit tips in Lisbon

  • “Tap and go” is a thing, but not everywhere. So get a 50-cent Navegante Card available at most stations (metro, train, boat) and fill/refill it using the “ZAPPING” option. That grants you access to all of Lisbon’s transport indiscriminately (as opposed to paying for each ride/service individually).
    NOTE: €20 averages around 8 rides.
     
  • Skip the infamous Tram 28 entirely. The queue for it seems to get longer by the minute, while locals avoid it like the plague.
    Moreover, alternatives like Tram 12, 24, or 25 all offer equal old-town charm but faster, and with plenty of elbow room.

Where to Stay in Lisbon: Best Neighborhoods and Areas to Avoid

Where you stay can make a big difference to your Lisbon experience. From central Chiado to quieter Alvalade, here are the neighborhoods that combine a good location with a comfortable stay plus the areas where it’s better to be more cautious, especially after dark. Best and Safest Neighborhoods to Stay in Lisbon

  • Chiada - The most popular: the safest, most central base for many first-timers. There’s plenty to see and do, and the streets are always illuminated and highly pedestrianized, including family-friendly evening crowds.
     
  • Alvalade – a budget-friendly alternative: Located north of the city center along the Green Metro Line, Alvalade is a quieter residential neighborhood with accommodation to suit different budgets, a lively food and nightlife scene, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

💡 LOCAL HOUSING TIP: For a quieter stay close to the historic center, consider Santos, Estrela or Lapa, on the western side of downtown.
Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, is another tourist-friendly option, although its steep streets and eastern location may not suit everyone.

Areas to Avoid or Be More Cautious in Lisbon

  • Martim Moniz and parts of Almirante Reis: Although central and popular with visitors, these areas are best avoided when choosing accommodation, particularly around the streets leading north towards Intendente.
    If you do visit, stay alert and keep your belongings secure.
     
  • Nighttime safety: Cais do Sodré's infamous, tourist-heavy Pink Street, some parts of Bica and Baixa, and the winding paths of lower Mouraria (east of Martim Moniz) tend to attract petty theft and sometimes aggressive crime, especially after sundown.

One Day in Lisbon: The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary

A single day in Lisboa usually means focusing your energy on the historical core along the Tagus River preferably moving from east to west (and back).

The 4 Golden Rules for a perfect 24 hours in Lisbon

1. Get to the water (early): Head to Praça do Comércio waterfront, or Cais do Sodre metro/train station upon arrival. Both are great starting points for cultural adventure in every direction.

2. Skip the beach (this time): And while the closest stretch of beaches starts just 15 minutes by train from Cais do Sodre, cramming Lisbon’s millennia of history, culture, architecture, and food and drink into 24 hours is not easy. So save the ocean and downtime under the sun for a longer trip.

3. Leave your bag: Seriously, those stairs and hills are no joke. So pack light or find a locker (and we can help you with that below).

4. Metro, train, tram, maybe tuk-tuk, and walk: In other words, don’t drive. Cars anywhere near the center are almost always subject to sudden heavy traffic. Think narrow winding streets, poor Google Maps navigation from Uber/Bolt drivers, broken traffic lights, stuck trams, endless construction detours, and so on.

💡LUGGAGE TIP: Lisbon’s hills, stairs and cobblestones can be tough on luggage, especially if you’re only in town for the day.
If you arrive before check-in or need to leave your bags after checking out, luggage storage services such as City Lockers and Bounce can save you from dragging them around the city.

Two Ways to Spend One Day in Lisbon

Whether looking to check off iconic Lisbon go-tos or dive deeper into the local subculture, here are two varied ways to play your perfect day.

Option A: Lisbon’s Highlights for First-Time Visitors

Start with the waterfront at Praça do Comércio and walk east to the heights of Castelo de São Jorge. Head back down to the main tourist crawl of Rua Augusta, grab a bite, and then catch a tram west to Belém for a few hours. Then train or tram it back east for some Portuguese fine dining in Principe Real, and catch a sunset over downtown at Miradouro da Adamastor.

💡CULTURE PRO TIP: Among its countless eye-pleasers, Belém is also home to the city’s coolest museums.

Option B: Lisbon Off the Beaten Path

Skip the central crowds and head east to explore the trendy art spaces and craft breweries of industrial Marvila. As the sun sets, bus back west, wander through Alfama, and dine in a local tasca (tavern) with some live Fado music.

💡 PARTY PRO TIP: If you have a late flight, hit Bairro Alto or Pink Street for some bustling nightlife

2 Days in Lisbon: The perfect weekend getaway

Lisbon's real charm is, of course, best absorbed when adhering to its own unique, laid-back pace. And the following 48-hour blueprint blends medieval alleyways and history, panoramic viewpoints, Atlantic sea breezes, and mouth-watering local flavors without wiping you out.

Day 1: Explore Lisbon’s Historic Center

  • Morning: Start at Praça do Comércio and along the Tagus riverfront before the heat peaks. Cut north through the Neoclassical grid of Baixa, then head up to the roofless arches of Convento do Carmo.
     
  • Lunchtime: Stroll further up to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, take in the tile-roofed, castle- and ocean-donned panorama, and head down to Rossio Square. Dive into one of the dozens of restaurants directly north of it for some fresh seafood.
     
  • Afternoon: Push east to scale the stone paths to Castelo de São Jorge, then wander the ancient labyrinth of Alfama enjoying some fine local wine, craft beer, and/or ginginja.
     
  • Evening: Walk back westward into the steep lanes of Bica. Wash down all those hills with a cold imperial (small draft beer), get a few shots of Lisbon’s most selfied funicular tram, and squeeze into a traditional tasca for, say, some pica-pau (garlic-fried pork) and bacalhau (cod fish). That should give you some fuel for the countless, tightly packed clubs and bars of Pink Street below.

Day 2: Belém, the Atlantic Coast or LX Factory

  • Morning: Grab a galáo (increasingly aka latte) and something sweet or savory at a local pastelaria (cafe), and hop on the 15E tram west to Belém. Duck into the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and stroll along the river past the iconic Torre de Belém to a museum.

💡 LOCAL TIP: Get to Belém early to beat the crowds at the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, especially in summer. The 15E tram can get busy, so consider taking it from Praça da Figueira or another earlier stop.

  • Lunchtime:
    Sit down for some salt-cod fritters (pastéis de bacalhau) and calamari at a nearby riverside patio. And if feeling a bit touristy, snag a box of custard tarts straight from the ovens of Pastéis de Belém for later.
     
  • Afternoon (beach escape vs. creative hub):
    Dress down: Ride the Cascais-bound train another 10-20 minutes to the sandy shores of Carcavelos or Cascais for a freezing Atlantic dip and some R&R in the sun.
    Casual chic: Head back inland to Alcântara’s LX Factory. Browse its indie bookshops, countless concept stores, exclusive eateries, and vibrant street art galleries. All this as per custom inside or around refurbished textile factories and shipping containers.
     
  • Evening:
    Cap off the weekend back in the center, up in bohemian Príncipe Real. Find a leafy courtyard for a late-night dinner of contemporary Portuguese petiscos (“nibbles”) and other local specialties paired with some crisp local Vinho Verde.

3 Days in Lisbon: What to Do on Your Third Day

After 48 hours, you’ve likely ticked off Lisbon’s main landmarks. For your third day, you have three options: dive into an authentic local neighborhood, venture beyond the city center for a change of scenery, or head straight to the beach.

Option 1: Explore Mouraria and Graça Like a Local

Located right under the Castle and right before tourist-swamped Alfama, the historic district of Mouraria is the multicultural heart of the city as well as the birthplace of Fado music.
And while mostly deserted (and sometimes sketchy) at night, daytime allows you to wander its narrow, quiet alleys freely, discovering authentic local street art, stunning views of the city, and a few low-key tascas and bars.
End the afternoon uphill, in neighboring Graça. And the day with a delicious local meal at old-school Satélite or new-school Botequim. And catch a last sunset and some final stunning views of Lisboa at Miradouro de Graça.

Option 2: Cycle Along the Tagus from Lisbon to Belém

Rent some e-bikes (or scooters) and follow the Tagus river from Cais do Sodré all the way to Belém.
The flat, breathtakingly scenic path that runs under the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge (with views of Christ the King on the other side), and past local docks, maritime warehouses, and a nice stretch of restaurants and kiosks. And it takes only about 30-40 minutes, speed and selfies pending.
Bike, train, or tram it back to the center for a last-night dinner at Portugalia Cervejeria followed by a sunset river stroll (or a pint of Guinness at the first Irish Pub in Lisbon).

💡 INSIDER TIP: Take the 10-minute ferry from Cais do Sodré south to Cacilhas for a complete change of scenery. Enjoy sapateira recheada (Portuguese stuffed crab), explore the riverside, and you may even stumble upon a live Fado performance. Several restaurants are located right by the ferry terminal.

Option 3: Best Beaches Near Lisbon for a Day Trip

If culturally spent and feeling the summer heat, spend the whole day at one of the dozens of beaches along the Cais do Sodre/Cascais train line. Or get up early and take a 1-hour bus south to Costa da Caparica for the full Atlantic experience! Best Things to Do in Lisbon: Food, Shopping, Family Activities and Hidden Gems Looking to customize your Lisbon itinerary? Add these local favorites to your route, from traditional food and family-friendly spots to unusual attractions and authentic souvenirs. Where to eat in Lisbon

  • Cais do Sodre: Avoid the riverside traps and head to Pink Street’s tried and tested Rio Grande.
     
  • Bairro Alto: The somewhat misleadingly titled Casa da Índia is perfect for authentic traditional Portuguese food. Highly affordable too, and hidden in plain sight.
     
  • Near Rossio: Check out the local-heavy indoor Asian fusion market at Martim Moniz. Not traditional Portuguese — but still some of the best food joints in town.
     
  • On the way to Castelo Sao Jorge: Unlike Tram 28, As Bifanas do Afonso's bifanas (pork and garlic-lard gravy sandwiches) are well worth the ever-growing line outside.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Lisbon with kids

  • Santos (20 minutes west of Cais do Sodré): Museu da Marioneta is a well-kept secret within an interactive puppet museum within a historic convent perfect for all ages.
     
  • Bairro Alto: The National Museum of Natural History and Science is hours upon hours of family-friendly, educational fun. And the adjacent botanical garden is a perfect bonus.
     
  • Wildlife: Entertain the little ones with some giraffes and monkeys at Jardim Zoológico (Blue Line metro from Baixa Chiado).
    Or picnic alongside some free-roaming peacocks and ducks on the grounds of Castelo São Jorge, in Campo Martires da Patria (above Rossio), and out west in Tapadas das Necessidades (towards Belém).

Where to Find Authentic Lisbon Souvenirs

  • Alfama: If your stay lands on a Tuesday or Saturday, definitely hike to Feira da Ladrã (“Thieves' Market”) to dig for vintage tiles, clothes, and records, retro Portuguese ceramics, local arts and crafts, and all sorts of quirky antiques.
     
  • Belém: Browse the high-concept design store inside the CCB (Centro Cultural de Belém) for minimalist Portuguese pottery, books, and indie-crafted jewelry.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Places in Lisbon

  • Alfama: Museu do Aljube is a former political prison detailing Portugal's fight for freedom and unsavory colonial past.
     
  • Outskirts: Monsanto Park is a huge forest in the middle of the capital that many tourists tend to miss completely.
     
  • Belém: Often overlooked, the MAAT doubles as a futuristic architectural marvel overlooking the Tagus.

💡 PRO TIP: For even more ideas, events and practical information, check out the official tourism of Lisbon website: Visit Lisboa.

Best Day Trips from Lisbon: 3 Coastal and Cultural Getaways

If you have extra time, venture beyond Lisbon for a change of scenery. Here are three easy day trips, from Atlantic beaches to fairytale palaces and riverside escapes.

1. Cascais: Atlantic Beaches and Coastal Views

The suburbs of Cascais replace the city's steep historical hills with a dramatic Atlantic coastline complete with mansions, sandy bays, and an upscale, breezy marina lifestyle.

  • Reach it via a scenic 33-minute train ride from Cais do Sodré station (straight to the final stop).
  • Explore its touristy center, then grab an e-bike for the breathtaking 5-km coastal path past the caves of Boca do Inferno (“Mouth of Hell”) to, say, Guincho Beach. Enjoy a rocky swim, a bite, and a beer anywhere along the way.

2. Sintra: A fairytale less than an hour northwest of Lisbon

Sintra’s misty alpine forests and gothic palaces feel a world away. And while still very touristy, there are plenty more ways to escape the crowds than in Lisbon. Plus an overall feeling of magic.

  • Take the direct 40-minute train from the iconic Rossio Station.
  • Grab a bite and a drink at countless local venues, and stay past sundown — or even overnight, if your itinerary allows. The UNESCO site’s dimly lit, silent mountain roads and misty, otherworldly sunrises offer a perfect break from the noise of the capital.

💡 SINTRA INSIDER TIPS
1. Exploring:
While the main attractions of Penha Palace and the Moorish Fortress are well worth it, if pressed for time, choose Quinta Da Regleira over both.

2. Timing: The daytime crowds, tuk-tuks, and lines can ruin some of the city’s magic during peak season. So go mid-week, early in the morning or late afternoon, and off-season (if you can).

3. South of the Tagus: Cacilhas, Barreiro and Costa da Caparica

Skip the urban hustle and bustle and cross the Tagus for a change of scenery. This side of Lisbon combines dramatic city and river views, industrial-chic waterfronts, Atlantic surf breaks and a laid-back summer vibe.

  • Cacilhas: Take the 10-minute ferry from Cais do Sodré for riverside views, seafood restaurants and a more local atmosphere.
  • Barreiro: Catch a 20-minute ferry from Terreiro do Paço for a quieter, more industrial waterfront escape.
  • Costa da Caparica: Head south for Atlantic beaches and surf. Take the direct 3710 bus from Sete Rios or cross the 25 de Abril Bridge by rideshare.

💡PRO DINING TIP: Walk past the abandoned Cacilhas warehouses to reach this riverside iconic Ponto Final. And call well in advance to book a “yellow table” right on the water's edge for a one-of-a-kind sunset feast.

🇵🇹 Planning to explore beyond Lisbon?

  • Travel Guide to Portugal: Everything you need to plan your trip across the country, from local customs and transport to hidden gems and practical travel tips.
     
  • Portugal Itineraries: Get inspired by suggested itineraries to make the most of your time in Portugal.

What Are the Most Overrated Tourist Spots in Lisbon? 6 Cheaper, Local Alternatives

Long lines, inflated prices and packed tourist hotspots aren’t your only options in Lisbon. Here are six popular attractions and local alternatives that can save you time, money or both!

Popular tourist spot The local alternative Why choose it?
Tram 28: Waiting hours in the sun for an overcrowded, pickpocket-prone historic tram ride. Tram 24 / Bus 709 Save time and avoid the crowds: Tram 24 passes through historic areas such as Príncipe Real with fewer crowds. Bus 709 also uses standard local fares and climbs some of Lisbon's steepest streets.
Elevador Santa Justa: Queuing to pay €6+ to ride a pretty elevator for a panoramic but low-vantage viewpoint. Largo do Carmo / Carmo Convent Terrace 100% free view: Walk up the hill behind the lift to Largo do Carmo and access the exact same observation platform for absolutely zero euros (via a public path next to the convent ruins).
Pastéis de Belém: Standing in massive, chaotic street lines outside the original bakery factory. Manteigaria, Castro, or basically any pastelaria Skip the queues: Lisbon has plenty of excellent places serving freshly baked pastéis de nata, often with shorter waits and lower prices.
Overpriced fado shows: Paying a mandatory €50+ dinner menus in Bairro Alto, Alfama, or Cais do Sodré. Mouraria/Cacilhas (just look for "Live Fado" signs pretty much anywhere). Authentic vibe: Just wander and ask around, and you're sure to find some Fado Vadio (amateur Fado) — or even just Fado — where locals, young and old, stand up and sing spontaneously. You only pay for what you drink or eat.
Time Out Market: Squeezing into an expensive, packed food hall where prices are heavily inflated for foreigners. Mercado de Campo de Ourique Local prices: A gorgeous, traditional neighborhood market that features incredible food stalls, lower prices, open tables, and an authentic neighborhood feel.
Cheese, ham, sardines, wine, and ginginja tourist shops: You're being grossly overcharged for basically just being a tourist. Pingo Doce / Garrafeira Nacional Shop like a local: Supermarkets and established wine shops can offer Portuguese products at more competitive prices, making it easier to find authentic souvenirs without the tourist markup.


5 Common Tourist Scams and Traps to Watch Out for in Lisbon

Scammer ingenuity tends to peak with overtourism — and Lisbon is no exception. Couple that with the summer heat, and even the most diligent of visitors can fall victim. So here’s what to look out for (and how):

  1. Ghost rentals: Fraudsters take advantage of Lisbon’s growing housing crisis by listing cheap “phantom” apartments online to steal your deposit (or more).
    👉 Book through verified platforms like idealista (Lisbon’s number one local go-to), never wire money in advance, meet and view in person, and get everything in writing.
     
  2. Fake drug dealers: Groups of men well-dressed but often aggressive exploit Portugal's decriminalization laws to sell bay leaves, cooking seasoning, and baking soda as drugs.
    👉 Just say "Não,obrigado" as many times as you have to and walk away.
     
  3. The tuk-tuk surprise: Smooth-talking drivers will quote a reasonable price only to suddenly charge “per person” or add a "scenic route premium” at the end.
    👉 Always confirm the total final price for your whole group before climbing in.
     
  4. The "couvert": Lisbon restaurants may bring bread, cheese, cured ham or other snacks to your table before you order. This traditional Portuguese practice is not a scam, but the items are not necessarily complimentary and may be added to your bill.
    👉So if you don’t want to be charged for them, send them back immediately with a “Não, obrigado" too.
     
  5. Unofficial parking attendants: Self-appointed helpers (aka "arrrumadores") will aggressively wave you into a free public spot and then demand a €2 to €5 cash tip for finding the spot and "watching" your car.
    👉Be cordial, and maybe toss them a few small coins to avoid getting it scratched.

💡3 SAFETY PRO TIPS:

  • Keep your phone and valuables out of sight: Pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas, on public transport and at restaurant terraces.
    Keep your phone and wallet in a zipped bag or a secure front pocket, especially when sitting outside.
    Although not unique to Lisbon, most longer-term visitors here unfortunately end up with at least one story of things gone missing in plain sight!
     
  • Save Safe Communities Portugal: This national crime-prevention resource provides practical safety advice for tourists in Portugal, as well as useful emergency contacts and information on local risks.
    Save the website before your trip so you can quickly find the information you need if something goes wrong.
     
  • Emergency number: 112. This European emergency number is free to call anywhere in Portugal and connects you with the police, fire brigade or medical services.

👉Check out AXA’s guide on Tourist scams in Europe for more universal European pitfalls.

How to Prepare for Your Trip to Lisbon: Visa, ETIAS and Travel Insurance

Before you travel to Lisbon, make sure you have the right documents and coverage for your stay. As Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, entry requirements depend mainly on your nationality.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Lisbon?

  • EU and Schengen citizens: You only need a valid national ID card or passport to enter Portugal.
  • Travellers who need a Schengen visa: You must obtain your visa before travelling.

👉 See our step-by-step guide to getting a Schengen visa for Portugal

Will You Need ETIAS to Travel to Portugal?

Visa-exempt travellers, including citizens of Canada, the UK and the US, can currently visit Portugal without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.

As of 2026, ETIAS is not yet operational. The European Union is expected to introduce the new travel authorization soon, but the official launch date has not yet been confirmed by the European Commission.

👉 Once the system is operational, eligible visa-exempt travelers will need an ETIAS authorization before travelling to Portugal.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Lisbon?

  • Travel insurance with EU-compliant medical coverage is mandatory for travellers applying for a Schengen visa.
  • It is not mandatory for visa-exempt visitors, but it is strongly recommended to cover unexpected medical expenses during your stay.

👉 You can learn more about Schengen travel insurance requirements and the coverage offered by AXA Schengen.

Why Choose AXA Schengen Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Lisbon?
From visa requirements to unexpected medical needs, AXA Schengen provides coverage and 24/7 assistance throughout your trip. Here’s what you get:

✔ Visa-compliant coverage + refund in case of refusal: AXA Schengen policies meet official Schengen visa requirements. If your visa is refused, you can request a full premium refund.

✔ Instant digital certificate: Receive your AXA insurance certificate by email immediately after purchase, ready to print for your visa application.

  • Up to €2 million in medical coverage: Depending on the plan you choose, you can benefit from extensive coverage for emergency medical treatment, hospital stays and emergency dental care.
     
  • Medical repatriation and repatriation in case of death
     
  • Baggage protection: Included or available as an optional cover, depending on your plan.
     
  • 24/7 assistance and teleconsultation: Get support around the clock and access remote medical consultations in several languages through Doctor Please!.
     
  • Coverage beyond Portugal: Your policy can also cover you across the Schengen Area, EU countries and, depending on your plan, the UK.

 

Choose the right travel insurance for your trip to Portugal.
Compare
AXA Schengen plans and coverage to find the option that fits your needs and budget.

👉 Ready to protect your trip to Portugal?
Get a free, zero-obligation AXA quote.

✈️Boa viagem, because Lisboa awaits!


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Frequently Asked questions about visiting Lisbon
 

How many days do I realistically need to explore Lisbon?

Plan for 3 days to fully experience Lisbon's historic districts, vibrant food scene, and a dedicated day trip to Sintra (or a beach).
BONUS LOCAL PRO TIP: For a deeper, English-speaking dive into local neighborhoods, culture, and events, check out Atlas Lisboa.

Is Lisbon a walkable destination?

Yes, central Lisbon is highly compact and best explored on foot. But, again, its legendary hills feature incredibly steep inclines and slick limestone cobblestones. So packing comfortable sneakers with strong traction is a must to navigate the city safely.

Are the Euronet ATMs around Lisbon trustworthy?

Great question! If you can, avoid using the pristine yellow-and-blue Euronet ATMs. These charge steep transaction fees and apply highly inflated currency conversion rates to foreign cards. For the best rates, always utilize official local bank ATMs marked with the "Multibanco" logo even if they don’t look so new and choose to be billed in Euros rather than your home currency.

Is tap water safe to drink in Portugal?

Yes. Lisbon’s tap water is perfectly safe and meets all EU standards.

Is Tipping Expected in Lisbon?

No, tipping is not mandatory in Lisbon. It is appreciated for good service, but there is no fixed percentage you are expected to leave. Check your bill first, as some restaurants may already include a service charge.

Can I use my credit card everywhere, or do I need cash in Lisbon?

While major credit cards are standard at hotels and modern restaurants, many traditional cafés (tascas), old-school bakeries, and historic trams operate strictly on cash. So keep a few small-denomination Euro bills and coins on hand.

Can I use my foreign driver's license in Portugal?

Yes, you can legally drive in Portugal as a tourist using a valid non-EU driver's license — provided it is in English or Portuguese. But to check if your specific document works, see AXA's guide on which driving licenses are required to drive in Europe.

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