Dreaming of Lisbon but don’t know where to start? When to go, how many days to plan, where to stay, what to pack: planning a trip to Lisbon always raises the same questions. Drawing on our experience with thousands of travellers, we’ve gathered everything you need to arrive relaxed and make the most of the Portuguese capital.
When is the best time to visit Lisbon?
Lisbon can be visited year-round, but some periods are sweeter. April to June and September to October are the best: pleasant temperatures (20 to 26°C), golden light, open terraces and moderate crowds. July and August are hot (up to 35°C) and very busy. Winter (November to February) remains mild (10 to 16°C) but rainier. It’s also the best season for tight budgets and a more intimate experience.
How many days to plan?
We recommend at least 4 days for Lisbon alone: 2 days for the iconic districts (Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto), 1 day in Belém and 1 day for a Sintra excursion. To include the coast (Cascais, Estoril, Cabo da Roca), count 5 to 6 days. If you plan to extend to the Algarve or the north, Lisbon becomes a 3-day stop in a wider itinerary.
What budget to plan?
Lisbon remains one of the European capitals offering the best value. Here’s a range per person per day:
- Tight budget: £50 to £80 (hostels, local eateries, public transport).
- Mid-range: £110 to £160 (central 3★ hotel, varied restaurants, some activities).
- Comfort: £200 to £320 (4★ or boutique hotel, fine dining, private experiences).
- Luxury: £370 and above (5★ hotel, private driver, exclusive activities).
Flights from London, Manchester, Dublin, Amsterdam or Geneva often start around £90 return in low season, and £180 to £260 in high season.
Where to stay in Lisbon?
It depends on your style of travel:
- Chiado and Baixa: the historic heart, ideal for a first visit. Central but more touristy.
- Príncipe Real: elegant, quiet, boutiques, cafés and small restaurants. Our favourite for a weekend.
- Alfama: authentic atmosphere, narrow alleys. Beautiful but less practical with heavy luggage.
- Graça: hilltop residential district, spectacular views, village feel. Our agency is based here.
- Avenida da Liberdade: upscale hotels, quick access to everything.
Getting around
From Humberto Delgado airport, it takes 15 to 25 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing (15 to 20€ depending on time) or 45 minutes by metro. In the city, the metro and trams cover most needs, but the best way to discover Lisbon is on foot. Bring comfortable shoes: the city is cobbled and hilly. For day trips (Sintra, Cascais), the regional train is efficient and affordable.
What to pack
Beyond the basics, think about: non-slip shoes (cobblestones get slick when wet), a light jacket even in summer (the Tagus breeze cools evenings), a hat and sunscreen from April to October, a reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink), and a European adapter (type F plugs). In winter, add a compact raincoat.
Formalities and practicalities
Portugal is part of the EU and Schengen area: for British travellers, a valid passport is required (no visa for stays under 90 days). Currency: euro. Language: Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Type F plugs, 230V. Time zone: GMT in winter (same as UK), BST in summer.
Trusting a local expert
You can plan your trip on your own, but working with an English-speaking agency based in Lisbon has real advantages: confidential addresses, savings on activities, early bookings, support in case of unexpected events. Discover our tailor-made travel offers, our curated accommodation and transport, or read our practical advice. A question? Get in touch, we reply within 48 hours. Boa viagem!