Top 10 things
to do in Lisbon
Walkable, warm, full of character and genuinely affordable compared to Paris or London. An honest guide to the 10 best things to do on your first visit, with the tips that actually matter.
First time in Lisbon? This guide covers the 10 best experiences, from Alfama and Belem to Sintra day trips and golden hour viewpoints. It also shows how to combine your trip with a professional photo session in the city’s most photogenic spots. Sessions from €150, gallery in 7 days.
Ride Tram 28 through the historic districts
The iconic yellow Tram 28 passes through Alfama, Baixa and Graca, some of the most atmospheric streets in the city. It’s a genuine working tram, not a tourist ride, which makes it feel more authentic than most city attractions.
Explore the Belém district
Belem is where Portugal’s Age of Discoveries began. The Monastery of Jerónimos is genuinely stunning, and Pastéis de Belem, the original custard tart shop since 1837, is a non-negotiable stop.
Get lost in Alfama
Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood and its most photographed. Narrow alleys, tiled walls, fado echoing from open windows. The Lisbon Cathedral and Miradouro de Santa Luzia are the obvious anchors, but the best moments happen when you stop following a map.
Planning a session in Alfama or Belém?
These are two of the most requested locations for photo sessions in Lisbon. Golden hour in Alfama especially, the light on the tiled walls is extraordinary. Sessions from €150.
Watch sunset from a miradouro
Lisbon has more free viewpoints per square kilometre than almost any city in Europe. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is the highest point with a 360° view and almost no tourists. Miradouro da Graça has the best view of Alfama and the castle.
Golden hour is when we shoot
Those same viewpoints are where we take our favourite photos. If you want to remember Lisbon at its most cinematic, we can meet you at a miradouro just as the light turns gold.
Visit São Jorge Castle
Perched at the top of Alfama, Castelo de São Jorge offers panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. The interior museum is worth skipping if you’re pressed for time.
Eat like a local
Bacalhau à Brás is the most iconic dish. Bifana is the best cheap lunch in the city. Pastel de nata is best at Pastéis de Belém or Manteigaria in Chiado.
7. Take a day trip to Sintra or Cascais
Sintra
Palaces, gardens and Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Go Tuesday to Thursday, weekends are more crowded. Photographer in Sintra →
Cascais
A beautiful old fishing town, Atlantic coastline and a relaxed pace. 40 minutes by train from Cais do Sodré. Photographer in Cascais & Estoril →
Turn a day trip into a session
Sintra’s palace gardens and the Cascais coastline are two of our most requested backdrops. If you’re already heading out for the day, we can meet you there and make the most of the afternoon light.
Wander through LX Factory
A former industrial complex under the 25th of April Bridge, now home to independent restaurants, concept stores and a Sunday market. The most creative corner of Lisbon.
Experience live fado
Fado is the soul of Portuguese music, emotional and nostalgic. A live performance in a small venue in Alfama or Bairro Alto is one of the most authentic experiences in Lisbon.
Walk along the Tagus at golden hour
The stretch from Cais do Sodré to Belém along the river is one of the best evening walks in the city. This is also the best time for a photo session along the waterfront.
Take the waterfront home with you
Most people finish this walk wishing they had proper photos of it. We shoot along the Tagus at golden hour all year round, and it stays one of our favourite spots in the city.
A note on timing: in July and August, Lisbon can hit 38 to 40°C. Do outdoor activities early morning or after 5pm. Golden hour in summer starts around 8pm and lasts until 9pm.
Photo session pricing
in Lisbon
Available across Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and Estoril. Book online, date confirmed immediately.
+€20 per additional person from the 2nd · max 10 people · see all packages
Come home with
professional photos of Lisbon
Most people return from Lisbon wishing they had better photos of themselves in the city. Golden hour in Alfama, Belém at sunrise, Sintra in the afternoon light.
Sessions available in Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and Estoril. Gallery delivered within 7 days, high resolution, no watermarks.
Rated 4.9/5 across 347 sessions · 38 countries · couples, solo travellers, families & proposals
Frequently asked
questions
How many days do you need in Lisbon?
Three full days is the minimum, one day for Alfama and the historic centre, one day for Belém and the waterfront, and one day trip to Sintra or Cascais.
What’s the best time of year to visit Lisbon?
April, May, September and October are the best months, warm, relatively uncrowded, and the light is extraordinary.
Is Lisbon expensive?
Compared to Paris, Amsterdam or London, no. Budget €80 to €120 per person per day for a comfortable trip.
How do I get around Lisbon?
Walking is the best way to see the historic centre. For longer distances the metro is fast and cheap.
Can I book a photo session for my first day in Lisbon?
Yes, many clients book a session early in their trip. A golden hour session in Alfama or near the Tagus is the most popular choice. Check availability here.