Lisbon City Guide

Fresh seafood and Portuguese dishes like Bacalhau à Brás and Pastéis de Nata are popular. There’s wide international cuisine and growing vegetarian and vegan options. Late-night food is common in Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré.

Vibrant nightlife centers around Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, Santos, and Alcântara with bars and clubs.

Traditional strong coffee is common. Specialty coffee shops and roasters are growing in number.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. 5-10% in restaurants is common if no service charge. Taxi tips are rounding up or a euro or two.

SIM cards are available at airports and official stores like Vodafone, MEO, and NOS. Vodafone and MEO offer eSIMs. ID or passport is required for activation.

Cleanliness is good in central areas but can vary by neighborhood. Waste collection and recycling are regular.

Some pharmacies operate 24/7 on a rotating schedule. Minimarts open late or all night. Night clinics and late food options exist mainly in central areas.

Supermarkets like Pingo Doce, Continente, Lidl, and Auchan offer international products. Local fresh markets are common. Stores usually open from 8/9 AM to 9/10 PM, including Sundays for larger stores.

Card payments work in most restaurants, big stores, and supermarkets. Smaller shops and markets might still prefer cash.

ATMs are common and reliable, mostly using the Multibanco network. Fees for international cards vary, so check with your bank.

Lisbon offers local and international schools, including Carlucci American International School, St. Julian's, and the German School. English, German, and French are common languages of instruction. Admission can require early application and waitlists exist.

Strong community with frequent meetups, co-living, co-working, and online groups. Many cafes cater to remote workers.

Good access to large parks like Monsanto, Eduardo VII, and the Tagus riverfront promenade, suitable for walking and running.

Good running routes along the Tagus River, parks, and Monsanto Forest. Generally safe and scenic.

Gyms range from budget to premium, offering a variety of facilities.

Many tennis courts available, with options for rentals and coaching.

Padel is popular, with many courts and clubs offering pay-per-use and memberships.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles and classes for all levels, often with English-speaking instructors.

Gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, Capoeira, and more, often with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing near Lisbon. Serra da Estrela is the only ski resort in Portugal, hours away.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the Tagus River and nearby beaches. Rentals and guided tours are common.

Surf spots like Carcavelos and Costa da Caparica are good for beginners; Ericeira offers advanced waves. Water is cool; wetsuits needed, especially in winter. Best seasons are autumn and spring.

Limited dive sites near Cascais and Sesimbra. Visibility is moderate; marine life includes fish and octopus. Summer and early autumn are best for diving.

Lisbon has public and private hospitals. Private clinics like CUF and Hospital da Luz have English-speaking staff and shorter waits. Pharmacies are common and marked with a green cross; some open 24/7 on a rotating basis.

Tap water meets EU safety standards and is safe to drink.

Many playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Lisbon Oceanarium, Zoo, and science museums.

Very LGBTQ+ friendly with many safe venues and annual Pride events. Legal protections are strong.

Pet-friendly accommodations and cafes are common. Good veterinary services and several dog parks available.