06 Feb SOLO TRIP TO LISBON – THE FULL TRAVEL GUIDE
Traveling alone, an adventure everyone should experience at least once. A solo city trip gives you the freedom to do exactly what you feel like, meet new people and explore the city at your own pace. Lisbon is the perfect destination for a solo trip: safe, fun and full of great places to eat, drink and soak up culture. Whether you are an experienced solo traveler or want to hop on a plane by yourself for the first time. Let this article be your sign to go on a solo trip to Lisabon.
Why should you travel to Lissabon solo?
Once you’ve traveled alone, it gives you such a sense of freedom. You’ll never have to let the absence of a travel companion hold you back again! During my solo trip to Lisbon, I felt more connected to the people around me than when traveling with friends or a partner. I had the best conversations with fellow travelers on the plane, with people waiting in line for a pastel de nata, or during museum visits. It truly is a unique experience.
By all means, it doesn’t have to replace a trip with friends, think of it as a gift to yourself every now and then.
How do you choose where to stay?
Need some peace and quiet and a place to rest after a long day discovering the city? Then there are plenty of lovely hotels in Lisbon. Would you like to get to know people on your solo trip? Then a hostel might be a better idea. I personally chose something in between: a private room in a hostel: Selina Secret Garden. This allowed me to go out mostly by myself, but whenever I felt like it, I could also seek out some company.
Our Favorite Hotels in Lisbon
Unique experiences, for a solo trip to Lisbon
Lisbon is a stunning city filled with remarkable landmarks, like the Santa Justa Elevator, the Belém Tower, and the iconic yellow trams that can be spotted all over town. In the following list, we’ll skip these well-known hotspots and show you other unique experiences to enjoy in Lisbon.
Santa Clara Flea Market – A paradise for vintage lovers
Every Tuesday and Saturday, the square near the Panteão Nacional transforms into a lively flea market. You can browse stalls filled with vintage clothing, antiques, art, and local products. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs while soaking up the local atmosphere. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a fun experience to stroll through!
Jardim do Torel – A hidden oasis with stunning views
This small, peaceful park is tucked away on a hill and offers breathtaking views over the city. It’s less touristy than other miradouros and a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle. Bring a book, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax on a bench while admiring Lisbon’s rooftops.
Immersivus Gallery in Jardim Amoreiras – Art in a whole new way
If you love art and technology, the Immersivus Gallery is a must-visit. Here, classical and modern artworks come to life through digital projections and light installations. Imagine a 360-degree experience where you’re surrounded by vibrant art, music, and visual effects. Perfect for a rainy day or if you’re looking for something unique.
Watch the Sunset in Almada – The best view of Lisbon’s skyline
For one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Lisbon, take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas. From there, a short bus ride or scenic walk takes you to the impressive Cristo Rei (Christ the King statue). The panoramic view over the city and the Tagus River is absolutely magical, especially as the sun sets behind Lisbon’s hills.
Azulejo Museum – The art of Portuguese tiles
This museum is dedicated to Portugal’s iconic azulejos, the colorful ceramic tiles seen all over the city. You’ll learn about their history and craftsmanship, and you can even take a workshop to paint your own tile—a perfect souvenir from your trip!
LX Factory – Lisbon’s creative hotspot
This former industrial complex has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub filled with trendy shops, street art, concept stores, and cozy cafés. You’ll find everything from Portuguese designer boutiques to rooftop bars with amazing views. On Sundays, there’s a lively market with handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and delicious local treats. A great place to explore and get inspired!
Visit the Miradouros – The best viewpoints in Lisbon
Lisbon is famous for its stunning miradouros (viewpoints). Two of the best ones are:
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – A spacious terrace offering panoramic views over the city and São Jorge Castle. There are often street musicians and small stalls, adding to the lively atmosphere.
- Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen – A less touristy viewpoint in the Graça neighborhood. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful, breathtaking view of the city while listening to local guitarists playing in the background.
Beach Day – Escape the city for some sun and sand
Lisbon is close to the coast, making a beach day a perfect addition to your city trip. The best options are:
- Carcavelos – Just a 30-minute train ride from Lisbon, this beach is great for a relaxing day by the sea. There are plenty of beach bars and a laid-back vibe.
- Costa da Caparica – A long stretch of beach popular with locals and surfers. Easily accessible by Uber, it offers countless beach bars where you can end the day with a cocktail.
- Cascais – This charming coastal town not only has beautiful beaches but also a lively old town with narrow streets, great restaurants, and scenic coastal walks. A perfect mix of beach and city.
Tip: get lost!
This may sound odd, but especially on your own, it is so much fun to discover places by just walking around a new city and letting your curiosity guide you. There is no one you have to take into account, so why plan everything in advance? During my first day in Lisbon, this is exactly what I did. And partly because of that, I came across some of the spots in this article. It’s also a fun way to explore the area around your hotel/hostel, so you’ll soon feel like a local there. Check our Off the Beaten Track page, to find more places where you can get lost.
Solo Dining
Dining alone at a restaurant can feel a bit intimidating at first, but once you’ve crossed that hurdle, it’s really easy. Want to make it even more comfortable? Bring a book or a notebook with you to keep yourself entertained. Unsure where to eat? Here are our top recommendations:
Best breakfast and lunch in Lisbon
- The Mill – A cute coffee/breakfast bar located in the lovely Barrio Alto area.
- Numa Café – This cozy café has a great vibe and a mouthwatering menu.
- Tease – A charming little café serving delicious breakfast and lunch options.
- Água no Bico – A hidden gem with a cozy courtyard, perfect for a relaxed meal.
- Noobai – Located at the Santa Catarina viewpoint, this is the place for a delicious brunch with a view.
- Janis – A cool breakfast and lunch spot with a laid-back atmosphere.
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Dinner Hotspots in Lisbon
Lisbon offers so many amazing dinner options! Here are my top picks:
- Damas – This trendy spot combines fantastic dishes with a great atmosphere. Be sure to order the spicy beef – it’s absolutely delicious.
- Farres – A Lebanese restaurant with a fun vibe. The mezze here is perfect for sharing, and the hummus is fantastic.
- Boa Bao – For fans of Asian cuisine. From dim sum to curries, here you can enjoy authentic flavors from all over Asia.
- By the Wine – A charming wine bar with tasty tapas to pair with your drinks.
- The Decadente – Affordable and very tasty, especially the fish dishes.
- ZeroZero – A popular Italian pizzeria with a lovely garden and fantastic views.
- Taberna da Rua das Flores – A romantic Portuguese tapas restaurant. No reservations allowed, but the wait with a glass of wine is totally worth it.
- Pharmacia – A unique restaurant located in an old pharmacy with a beautiful terrace.
- Bairro do Avillez – A restaurant by a famous Portuguese chef, offering refined dishes.
Farres
Fine Dining in Lisbon
If you’re in the mood for a fancy night out, these restaurants are definitely worth the splurge:
- Palácio Chiado – A regal dining experience. The stunning décor and exquisite dishes make it a truly special outing.
- Rocco – Stylish dining with an exceptional menu and fine wines. Here, you can enjoy a mix of Mediterranean and international cuisine.
- JNCQUOI-Asia – Expensive but an experience you won’t want to miss! The dishes here are a fusion of Asian cuisines, and the atmosphere is exclusive and modern.
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Drinks and Nightlife
It can be a little daunting to go to a bar alone, but if you’re up for it (if you’re single, it’s the perfect way to meet new people!), check out these spots:
- Casa Independente – Perfect for relaxing in the garden on weekdays while enjoying live music.
- Park Rooftop Bar – A hidden bar atop a parking garage with amazing views.
- Pensao Amor – A colorful bar in a former brothel, located in the popular Pink Street.
- Pink Street – The most famous nightlife street in Lisbon, packed with bars and clubs.
Must try sweet in Lisbon: Pastel de Nata & Ice Cream
You haven’t truly experienced Lisbon until you’ve tried a Pastel de Nata! Here are the best places to get them:
- Pasteis del Belem – It is the most popular one and definitely one of the best I’ve tasted. Located near the Belém Tower, it’s easy to combine these hotspots.
- Manteigaria Fabrica – Freshly baked tarts with a view of the baking process.
- Niva Ice Cream – Artisan ice cream with unique flavors.
As you can see, a solo trip to Lisbon is so much fun! I had a blast, are you up for it?
For more city trips, check below!
X Renée
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