What are the best free things to do in Lisbon?
I'm on a tight budget and want to make the most of Lisbon without spending a fortune on entry fees. What are the unmissable free experiences in the city? I'll have about 4 days there.
I'm on a tight budget and want to make the most of Lisbon without spending a fortune on entry fees. What are the unmissable free experiences in the city? I'll have about 4 days there.
The miradouros (viewpoints) are some of the best free experiences in Lisbon. Miradouro da Graça and Portas do Sol in Alfama offer stunning views over the city and the Tagus river. Go at sunset — bring a bottle of wine from a nearby shop and enjoy it properly.
Walking the streets of Alfama is completely free and endlessly fascinating. It's the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon — a maze of narrow streets, tiled buildings, and laundry overhead. You can hear fado music drifting from restaurants as you wander at your own pace.
LX Factory on a Sunday is a fantastic free visit, though you'll be tempted to spend! The outdoor market has food stalls, vintage clothing, books, and live music. It's one of the best people-watching spots in Lisbon and runs every Sunday from around 10am.
Many Lisbon museums offer free entry on Sundays before 2pm — including the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga and the Museu do Azulejo (the Tile Museum). The Tile Museum is particularly worth it; Portuguese azulejo tilework is extraordinary and the building alone is stunning.
Parque das Nações (the former Expo 98 site) is free to walk around with a beautiful riverfront promenade. It's modern and sleek compared to the historic centre. The Oceanarium costs entry but the entire outdoor riverside area is completely free.
Belém is a 20-minute tram ride from Praça do Comércio and free to explore on foot. The exterior of Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém are stunning even from outside. Stop for a pastéis de Belém (€1.50) at the famous bakery — completely unmissable.
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