City guides / Lisbon
Lisbon travel guide
Tram-lined hills, tiled facades and Atlantic seafood at European prices.
Lisbon District, Portugal · Local currency EUR · Time zone Europe/Lisbon
Best time to visit Lisbon
Flights and hotels are cheapest in January, February, November, December. Expect to pay the most in June, July, August.
Low season in winter with cool weather.
End of winter, cooler temperatures continue.
Spring begins with mild weather.
Weather becomes increasingly pleasant.
Tourism starts to pick up; favorable weather.
Early summer brings significant tourist influx.
Peak summer with beach-focused tourism.
Continued high season; popular beach and festival period.
Tourist numbers start to decline; warm weather persists.
Milder temperatures; good for sightseeing.
November marks the start of low season; cooler and rainier.
Christmas celebrations attract visitors but overall lower tourist traffic.
Getting around Lisbon
Public transport
Public transport is reliable with frequent metro, bus, and tram services, and payment is made through rechargeable cards (Viva Viagem).
Driving and parking (8/10 difficulty)
Parking can be challenging and expensive in the city center; it’s recommended to use public transport or park in designated lots outside the area and take the metro or trams.
How locals get around
Locals prefer walking or using trams; when on public transport, it's polite to give up your seat for the elderly and allow passengers to exit before boarding.
Local customs in Lisbon
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is customary in restaurants.
What to wear
Casual wear is the norm; however, when visiting religious sites, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required.
Cards and cash
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash (euros) for small purchases and local markets.
Phrases worth knowing
- Bom dia
- — Good morning - use this until early afternoon.
- Obrigado/Obrigada
- — Thank you (male/female) - use it to show appreciation.
- Onde fica...?
- — Where is...? - use this when seeking directions.
- Desculpe, onde é o banheiro?
- — Excuse me, where is the restroom? - a useful question when in need.
- Por favor
- — Please - use to be polite in requests.
Plan a Lisbon trip in a couple of minutes
Journi builds a day-by-day Lisbon itinerary around how you travel — stays, food near each day's activities, hidden gems and a packing list, with costs as you go.
Plan a trip to Lisbon