Lisbon is known as the ideal destination when traveling on a shoestring. But what if you’ve spent all your money on pastéis de nata and there’s still some of your stay left? You’ll have a great time with these free activities in Lisbon!
Tram 28
This bright yellow tram resembles a life-size model train and has pretty much become an icon of the city. Watching it from a street corner is completely free, but for a few euros the tram is also the perfect means of transport for a tour of Lisbon. It’s a wonderfully rickety, old-fashioned ride from Praça Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique. Count on beautiful pictures and steep slopes. Wish locals a bom dias (“good morning”) and enjoy.
Walking in Alfama
Moorish history is strong in the streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s medina-like old town. It is a seductive maze of alleys and squares full of flowers, laundry and fado; steep steps lead up to miradouros (viewpoints) overlooking the castle and the river. Wander around here for a while and be rewarded with a glimpse into Lisbon’s daily life and discover unexpected beauties.
Relax at the Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Lisbon is situated on seven hills, so you will pretty much always find an impressive vantage point close by. Our favorite is the high miradouro in Santa Catarina, where students play music, parents stroll around with children in prams and lovesick couples secretly meet. The view from the river to the Ponte 25 de Abril and Cristo Rei is fantastic (Rua de Santa Catarina).
Opener image: Starcevic/iStock