Not only is Lisbon a city of immediate charms – think crumbling Moorish ruins, narrow boulevards and tranquil parks – it is also one of Europe's least expensive capitals, making it a great place to explore on a budget. From beaches to basilicas, here’s our pick of the best things to do in Lisbon for free.
Relax on the beach
Some of Portugal’s most sought after beaches are just a short journey from the capital. For a family day out head to Carcavelos: the longest and broadest beach along the Estoril coast. This pleasant strand is far enough from the city to allow for clean, clear waters, but close enough to ensure a straightforward and low-cost trip.
Visit Basílica da Estrela
Though you may be content to admire one of Lisbon's most exceptional landmarks from the outside, it’s free to explore this church. Clad in grey, pink and yellow marble, the awe-inspiring interior is illuminated by light streaming down from the pierced dome. The elaborate Empire style tomb of Queen Maria I lies in the right transept and, if you ask the sacristan to show you to it, you'll find an extraordinary nativity scene with more than 500 cork-and-terracotta figures hidden away in a nearby room.
Enjoy a peaceful park
It’s easy to forget your inner-city location when relaxing in one of Lisbon’s serene parks or gardens. Jardim da Estrela and Jardim do Torel are two of the best. The first, which takes its name from Basilica Estrela, is the city’s finest park, with a large lake and an abundance of flora and birdlife. The latter is lesser-known, and much smaller, offering sweeping views across the city, as well as a peaceful space for quiet contemplation.
Take a riverside stroll
The riverside is largely traffic-free from Doc de Santo Amaro to the Torre de Belém, making for a lovely walk past the dramatic Ponte 25 de Abril and Belém's monuments.
Explore the Sintra Hills
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, Sintra was the summer residence for Portuguese kings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
Though admission applies to some of the area’s attractions, wandering the lush green hills and enjoying the romance of the place is completely free.
Amble along Rua Augusta
Though pedestrianised Rua Augusta is primarily a shopping street, you can pass some pleasant hours here without spending a dime.
Take in the mosaiced boulevards, lively street entertainers and grand architecture, the highlight being the triumphant Rua Augusta arch, built to commemorate the city’s recovery from the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
Admire the façade of Mosteiro dos Jerónimo
Not many of Lisbon’s monuments are overtly grand – though this imposing, historic monastery may be the exception. There is a charge for entry, but gazing upon its spectacular exterior is a joy within itself.
The two entrances warrant particular attention. Figures on the towering South Portal include Henry the Navigator, while the West Portal (used today as the main entrance) boasts mouldings by French sculptor Nicolau Chanterène.
Go beyond the tourist trail in Alameda
If you’re itching to get off the beaten track, this is the perfect place to do so. In a part of the city overlooked by most tourists lie Alameda’s narrow common and lighted fountain, offering a sense of Lisbon as it was before 1974.
Discover the central Alfama district
Alfama’s Arabic-sounding name and anthill layout are a testament to its past as an important district in Moorish Lisbon. No buildings survived from this era, but Alfama suffered little damage in the 1755 earthquake, meaning its Medieval street plan is still intact, and it is a joy to explore on foot. Look out for the whitewashed Sé cathedral and the Castelo de São Jorge, which crowns the district.
View the city from the Cristo Rei
From his tall perch on the south side of the river, Christ the King spreads his arms to protect Lisbon. The towering statue offers a fantastic (and free) vantage point from which to take in views of Lisbon and the Tejo estuary.
For more inspiration for things to see and do on your trip to Lisbon, check out our DK Eyewitness Lisbon and Top 10 Lisbon!
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