21 Lisbon Fun Facts –
Discover the City’s Hidden Gems
Lisbon is a beautiful and captivating city and our Lisbon fun facts make this capital even more interesting! This city, known as the “City of Seven Hills,” is brimming with fascinating quirks. From breath taking viewpoints to its iconic historic tram. Lisbon is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, you have gotta visit this city!
Impress your friends and even some locals with these 21 Lisbon fun facts, updated for 2025!
Lisbon Fun Facts
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The Crow Named Vincent
Lisbon Fun Facts
According to legend from 1173, crows have been a symbol of Lisbon after they escorted the body of Saint Vincent for his burial. Even today you can see crows around the Castle in São Jorge and the Church Sé adding to the legend. To honour the legend, in the past, Lisbon’s wealthy coal merchants would keep a pet crow and named them …. yes you guessed it Vincent.
Is São Jorge Castle real?
On your trip to Lisbon you might think that the São Jorge Castle is a medieval fortress, but that’s not the truth, it’s actually a 1940s reconstruction. The original structure was in ruins but Portugal’s dictator Salazar decided to rebuild it to glorify the nation’s past. Did you spot the difference?
Lisbon 1st To Import Guinness
Number 3 on our list of 21 Lisbon Fun Facts:
Guinness is the drink of the gods, apparently, so clearly the people of Lisbon knew that before the rest of the world. In the 1820s, Lisbon imported Guinness directly from Arthur Guinness II, the son of Arthur Guinness, the creator of the famous stout. They got hooked on the black gold pretty early!
Guinness is the drink of the gods, apparently, so clearly the people of Lisbon knew that before the rest of the world. In the 1820s, Lisbon imported Guinness directly from Arthur Guinness II, the son of Arthur Guinness, the creator of the famous stout. They got hooked on the black gold pretty early!
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos Welcomed Its Millionth Visitor
In 2016, the Mosteiro Dos Jerónimos monument was visited by 1 million tourists. The actual 1 millionth visitor was Aurore Albert and her boyfriend, Misha Senelle, from Marseille.
The momentous event was marked by a bell and enthusiastic applause to signal the occasion. The couple who walked into the monument with zero knowledge of their historic position the couple by utter surprise. The event was captured by Portuguese news and television programs. Now thats a infamous Lisbon Fun Facts.
The momentous event was marked by a bell and enthusiastic applause to signal the occasion. The couple who walked into the monument with zero knowledge of their historic position the couple by utter surprise. The event was captured by Portuguese news and television programs. Now thats a infamous Lisbon Fun Facts.
Lisbon Was a World War II Spy Hub
During World War II, both Allied and Nazi spies gathered in neutral Lisbon, particularly at Estoril Casino. Espionage and intelligence exchanges thrived here, where Allied and Nazi spies enjoyed the thrill of the casino side by side. One of the spies was Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond. He wrote James Bond based on alot of the characters he met in Lisbon.
Even the city’s oldest café was a meeting place for spies – A Brasileira, the famous Lisbon café, was a hotspot for spies during World War II, grabbing a bica (expresso) and a nata. Can you imagine the scene Germans and British spies eating a Portguese breakfast side by side all the while the rest of Europe was fighting to the death. It’s so surreal!
Feeding Pigeons Is Illegal!
Although it might be a little strong you could be arrested in Lisbon if you feed the pigeons, it is against the last and was banned under our waste regulations. However, some older locals still secretly toss crumbs in the parks to our feathered friends.
Only Five People Know the Pastel de Belém Recipe
The famous Pastel de Belém recipe is a closely guarded secret known by only five very important people. These individuals take extreme precautionsto secure their secret lives on. They never travel together, drive in the same car, or order the same meal in order to to protect the beloved pastry’s recipe! You can purchase the delicous Pastel de Belém at Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92 1300 – 085 Lisboa
Now that is one great of our 21 Lisbon Fun Facts.
Now that is one great of our 21 Lisbon Fun Facts.
Belém Tower Was Once a Prison
The tower has a grisly history with many battle being fought in front of the tower and opposing troops being quartered in the towers dungeons. Now that is morbid but luckily today nothing quite as groetesque happens. Today the Tower sits on the edge of the Tagus river quite peacefully, providing stunning images of Lisbon. Visitors are permitted inside the tower and luckily they are no longer quartered, well not to our knowledge anyway!
Lisbon Set a Guinness World Record for Dining
On the 22nd March 1998, Lisbon entered the Guinness World Records book for the longest table ever set. Seating 15,000 people, the very large table spanned the whole of the Vasco Da Gama bridge. (If you dont know its a very long bridge) The people ate eight tonnes of “feijoada” a traditional portuguese dish which took a shocking two weeks to make.
The event was sponsored by Fairy washing up liquid and if you are old enough you probably remember the advert. “For hands that do dishes that feel soft as your face, its mild green fairy liquid” …arhhh memories!!
Quick fact about the bridge, Lisbon’s Vasco da Gama Tower was inspired by a ship’s sail – The 145-meter-high tower resembles a billowing sail in honor of Portugal’s maritime heritage.
Lisbon Holds the Record for the Longest Mexican Wave
A Lisbon fun facts for sports lovers. Lisbon holds the record for the longest Mexican Wave or an example of a metachronal rhythm. A Mexican wave is achieved when successive groups of spectators briefly stand, yell, and raise their hands. Consisting of 8,453 participants it took place at Parque das Nações on the 12th August 2007. What an amazing Lisbon Fun Facts to tell the grandkids about!
The 25 de Abril Bridge Looks Familiar
Do you think you have seen if before? The 25 de Abril Bridge in Lisbon bears a striking resemblance to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA, as both were constructed by the same company.
When it was inaugurated in 1966, the bridge was originally called the Salazar Bridge. Named after Portugal’s then-dictator António de Oliveira Salazar. After the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, the revolution that overthrew the dictatorship, it was renamed to celebrate Portugal’s transition to democracy. The 25th April Bridge
When it was inaugurated in 1966, the bridge was originally called the Salazar Bridge. Named after Portugal’s then-dictator António de Oliveira Salazar. After the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, the revolution that overthrew the dictatorship, it was renamed to celebrate Portugal’s transition to democracy. The 25th April Bridge
The World’s Oldest Bookstore Is in Lisbon
Bertrand Bookstore, located in the Chiado neighborhood, is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest operating bookstore, dating back to 1732.
Santa Justa Lift – A Legacy of Gustave Eiffel’s Student
Lisbon Is Home to the World’s Oldest Operating Elevator
The Santa Justa Lift, built in 1902, still carries passengers between the lower and upper streets of the city center.
The city’s iconic Santa Justa Elevator was designed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel. His students really got around!
Check out our Porto fun facts.
The Santa Justa Lift used to be steam-powered – Before switching to electricity, can you imagine when this iconic elevator was powered by steam engines! All that steam!!
Lisbon’s Trams Came from the USA
Lisbon’s Trams are not Portuguese they are from the U.S. The iconic yellow trams, like Tram 28, were originally imported from the United States in the early 1900s.
Another great Lisbon Fun Fact is that Tram 28 is a Tourist Favorite. The yellow Eléctrico 28 tram takes visitors on a scenic ride through Lisbon’s historic districts.
Scary fact some of Lisbon’s trams still use century-old wooden brakes, lets hope they do not fail!
Another great Lisbon Fun Fact is that Tram 28 is a Tourist Favorite. The yellow Eléctrico 28 tram takes visitors on a scenic ride through Lisbon’s historic districts.
Scary fact some of Lisbon’s trams still use century-old wooden brakes, lets hope they do not fail!
Brazilian Capital?
The Capital on Portugal Was Once in Brazil – During the Napoleonic invasions, the Portuguese royal family fled to Brazil and ruled the empire from Rio de Janeiro from 1808 to 1821.
Lets move onto the next in our list of 21 Lisbon fun facts.
Lisbon Has the World’s Smallest Bookstore
Lisbon is home to the World’s Smallest Bookstore. The Livraria do Simão is just 3.8 square meters, fitting only one person at a time! What a teeny tiny Lisbon Fun Facts.
Colourful Streets
Rua Nova do Carvalho, once a red-light district, is now a vibrant nightlife hub. It is now known as “Pink Street” for its painted pavement. From red to pink!
Lisbon also has a green street, known this way because of the plants and greenery on show. The street restaurants madesure the street is almost a garden in the urban jungle that is Lisbon.
Oldest House
Lisbon’s oldest house survived the 1755 earthquake. The Casa dos Bicos, now a museum, was one of the few buildings to withstand the massive disaster. Now thats a well built building, I need the the contact number of the builder.
Elephant in Lisbon?
A royal elephant once lived in Lisbon’s palace – King João III received an elephant named Ganga as a gift from India in the 16th century. Can you imagine walking down one of Lisbon streets and suddenly hearing an elefant!
You Old Funicular, you!
The world’s oldest operating funicular is in Lisbon – The Elevador do Lavra, running since 1884, is the oldest funicular still in use today.
It Is Part British
We have reached the last on our list of 21 Lisbon fun facts.
Lisbon once had a neighborhood just for British residents – The British Quarter had its own church, school, and even its own set of laws. These days most of us are in the Algarve!
Thanks for reading 21 Lisbon Fun Facts.
What is your favourite Lisbon Fun Facts?
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Learn Basic Portugese
Olá – Hello
Bom dia – Good morning
Boa tarde – Good afternoon
Boa noite – Good evening / Good night
Adeus – Goodbye
Até logo – See you later
Por favor – Please
Obrigado/a – Thank you (men say “obrigado,” women say “obrigada”)
Desculpe – Excuse me / Sorry
Com licença – Excuse me (to pass by)
Sim – Yes
Não – No
Como está? – How are you?
Estou bem, obrigado/a – I’m fine, thank you
How To Get To Lisbon
Getting to Lisbon
By Air ✈️
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
By Train 🚆
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
By Bus 🚌
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
When To Visit Lisbon?
What are the Best Months To Visit Lisbon?
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night!
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night!
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 1 Day
1️⃣ Visit Rossio Railway Station – Admire its stunning neo-Manueline architecture.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 2 Days
Day One – Exploring Lisbon
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
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Things to Know Before You Go
The Weather Can Be Unpredictable During Winter & Spring
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Written by Clara R.
“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”
