Exploring Lisbon on a Budget: Free Activities to Enjoy
Are you planning a trip to Lisbon? You're in for a treat! Lisbon is one of Europe's most charming cities, and there's no shortage of free things to do here. Whether you're interested in art, history, or architecture, Lisbon has something for everyone.
Go to the beach
While there aren't any beaches in Lisbon, the good news is that it's really easy to get to one! All you need is a train, car, or bus, and you'll be soaking up the sun in no time. The most popular beach destinations are Costa da Caparica and Cascais. You can find free beaches, affordable restaurants with a chilling area, and even luxury beach clubs. Just keep in mind that traffic can be a bit hectic (especially on the weekend), so plan accordingly. And don't forget to wear sunscreen! The UV index can reach 10/11 during the summer, so you'll want to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
Visit museums
There are several free attractions that both residents and visitors can enjoy in Lisbon. On the first Sunday of every month, many museums offer free admission, including the National Museum of Ancient Art, the Berardo Collection Museum, and the Lisbon Museum. The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is also free on Sundays after 2:00 pm, while Estufa Fria is free all day on Sundays. Additionally, the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Lisbon's most impressive monuments, can be also visited for free on Sundays until 2 pm.
Take a look at the city
Lisbon is known for its stunning views that will take your breath away. The city is built on seven hills, and that makes for some truly amazing vistas. Luckily, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful views for free by visiting the city's many viewpoints.
One of the most popular viewpoints is Miradouro da Graça. Located in the Graça neighbourhood, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the city, including the river and the castle. It's a great place to watch the sunset while enjoying a picnic with friends. There are also several cafés and restaurants nearby where you can grab a drink or a snack.
Another must-visit viewpoint is Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Located in the Alfama neighbourhood, this viewpoint is known for its picturesque white pergola and views of the Tagus River and the National Pantheon. It's also a great place to admire the colourful rooftops and winding streets of Alfama.
If you want to see the city from above while enjoying some greenery, head to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. This viewpoint is located in the Bairro Alto neighbourhood and has a beautiful garden with fountains and benches. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the São Jorge Castle and the river.
But these are just a few of the many viewpoints that Lisbon has to offer. There are plenty of other spots where you can enjoy stunning views of the city, including Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte, Miradouro do Torel, and Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Visiting these viewpoints is completely free, so don't miss the chance to see Lisbon from a different perspective.
Visit Cemitério dos Prazeres
Visiting a cemetery may not seem like the most exciting activity, but Cemitério dos Prazeres is truly unique. Designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini in the 19th century, the cemetery features beautiful neo-gothic and art nouveau elements. The cemetery is also a reflection of Lisbon's cultural history, with many notable figures buried there. From politicians and artists to writers and musicians, you'll find the final resting place of some of Lisbon's most famous and influential residents. The best part? The cemetery is located on a hillside, offering spectacular views of Lisbon, including the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the Cristo Rei statue.
Discover a Secret Viewpoint
Parque Eduardo VII is a popular park in Lisbon known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and walking paths. But did you know that there's a secret viewpoint in the park that offers stunning views of the city? The viewpoint is located at the top of a small hill within the park, which can be accessed by a hidden staircase near the Estufa Fria greenhouses. From the top, you can see panoramic views of Lisbon, including the Tagus River, the Castle of São Jorge, and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. This hidden gem is not crowded like some of the other popular viewpoints in Lisbon, making it a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a moment of tranquillity.
Explore Lisbon's cultural attractions
If you’re interested in history, art, or architecture, there are plenty of free cultural attractions to explore in Lisbon. MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) is a popular museum located in the district of Belém, famous for its innovative architecture that combines old industrial buildings with new contemporary structures. The Torre de Belém (Belem Tower) is a historic tower built in the 16th century that served as a defensive structure to protect the city from attacks. Finally, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Lisbon's most impressive landmarks, known for its stunning architecture.
Check out the street art of LX Factory
Lisbon is home to some of the most amazing street art in the world. You can explore the city's street art scene by taking a walking tour or simply wandering the streets of neighbourhoods like LX Factory. This creative hub is located in the Alcântara district of Lisbon, and the walls of the buildings in the area are covered in colourful graffiti and murals, created by some of the most talented street artists in Portugal and around the world. Visitors to LX Factory can take a stroll through the area to explore the street art or even join a guided tour to learn more about the pieces and the artists who created them.
Lisbon is a city full of history, culture, and beauty; you don't need to spend a fortune to experience it. These free things to do in Lisbon are just a few examples of the many attractions the city has to offer. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this stunning city!
