Hilltop castles, trading ports and Lebanon heritage; LISBON! Lisbon’s best places to see, do and visit are the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Sao Jorge Castle.
However, it can busy like a crowdy amusement park. Where to go to avoid the herds of tourists in Lisbon? Visit these 5 places!
1. Cemitério dos Prazeres
Now it may seem a bit strange to visit a cemetery, but the Cemitério dos Prazeres is definitely worth a visit.
Walk in and you will see magnificent gravestones with craved and crafted design, each unique. The cemetery walls overlook the Tagus River and the Christ the King statue can be spotted on the opposite side. Vast promenades have shadows caste on them by the tall, lush trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
To get to the cemetery all you have to do is take the tram to the last stop on the line, Campo Ourique (Prazeres), and you’ll be right in front of the gates.
2. Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium was the exhibition grounds for the 1998 Lisbon World Exposition, an official specialized World’s Fair held in Lisbon with the theme of “The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future.”
This oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, and the largest salt water oceanarium in the world.
Whether you like penguins, seagulls or seahorses, they’re all part of the 450 types collection of marine species.
If you are a bit more scared, try to stay away from the sharks swimming around! The oceanarium is one of the few aquariums in the world to even house a sunfish!
The oceanarium is located in the Parque das Nacoes district of Lisbon.
3. Mercado da Ribeira
Since 1892, the Market of Ribeira (Mercado da Ribeira) has been Lisbon’s main food market. In 2014, the market was taken over by Time Out Lisbon Magazine. Time Out added stalls offering abundant traditional local products.
The hall was built as a large oriental dome with beautiful architectural details. The mix of stalls from top chefs has different brands of local products and food ranging from seafood to stead sandwiches, hamburgers, sushi and ice cream. There is fresh produce and many food court style dishes.
The scents of the spices and seasonings used will make your mouth water as soon as you walk into the hall. With the large variety of foods to try, the Market of Ribeira is definitely one of the best places to visit when you go to Lisbon. The hall is loved and visited by locals and visitors alike.
4. LX Factory
The LX Factory holds the modo “the place is belonging to everyone, for everyone.” In one of the most industrial abandoned areas of Lisbon, the LX Factory stands as a giant atelier full of galleries where you can discover traditional restaurants, design shops and concert halls.
The new factory is occupied by corporations, new brands, start-up companies and up-coming artists. The factory is decorated with huge, colourful graffiti-style murals on the exterior walls.
Inside, there are also small trendy cafes, hipster shops, visual and performing arts, music, fashion and one of the best ice creams shops in Lisbon.
Many locals hang out at the factory, as well as business managers to get to know each other. The good vibes don’t end here.
5. Streetart
Walking is the best way to experience Lisbon. As you turn any street corner, treasures await you, especially the incredible street art! The themes of the art range from the country’s history, pop culture and impressionistic pieces. Lisbon is renowned for urban street art, and a simple walk through the centre will unveil some of the most amazing works of art.
For example, Bairro Alto is one of the city’s most colourful neighbourhoods. It is full of bars, clubs, small restaurants, tattoo parlors and famous street art.
Get ready to explore more of these artworks with a local!
