Not all European cities are ideal to visit between June and August, either because of high temperatures or because they are saturated with tourists. However, Lisbon in summer is one of the best options.
It is the only European capital bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, and to this we must add historic neighbourhoods, good food, viewpoints and the fact there are many beautiful places nearby, easily within driving distance. This is precisely the best means of transport to visit Lisbon in summer (or any time of year), without depending on public transport.
What to see in Lisbon in summer in the city
Lisbon is a city with many attractions which requires at least a couple of days to see it all. These are our must-see stops in the Portuguese capital:
- The Alfama district is full of narrow streets, tiled facades and you are sure to hear the unmistakable sound of fado blasting out from a Portuguese home.
- Climb up to São Jorge Castle for the best panoramic views of the city.
- La Baixa and the Praça do Comércio are great areas for a sunset walk, a rest between slopes and a bite to eat or drink.
- Belém is home to some of the city's major attractions, such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery.
- Make sure to try the pasteles de nata or pasteles de Belém.
- If you are looking for a less historical and more modern alternative, in LX Factory you will find restaurants, creative stores and terraces with good atmosphere.
Beaches and getaways near Lisbon
Logically, if you go to Lisbon in summer, you will probably be on the lookout for beach plans, at least during the day. One of the main getaways is Costa da Caparica on the other side of the 25 de Abril Bridge. It is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the city centre and can be reached in less than 30 minutes by car. It is a very long strip of coastline with more than 15 kilometres (9 miles) of sand, and that is why it is a top destination for tourists and locals alike.
If you are looking for an urban beach, promenade and a more chic atmosphere, visit Cascais and Estoril. These two locations are about 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Lisbon and, in addition to having good beaches, they also have a wide range of restaurants and marinas.
Another highly recommended visit is Sintra, about 30 kilometres (18 miles) away. Although not a beach destination, it is a good place to travel near Lisbon in summer, because it has a kind of cooler microclimate, with palaces and gardens. Visit the Pena Palace, the Quinta de Regaleira and the Castelo dos Mouros.
And if you are more of a nature lover, you can reach Sesimbra and the Arrábida Natural Park by car in about 45 minutes. Here you will fall in love with its crystal-clear waters and the most beautiful coves on the coast of Portugal, with permission of the Algarve.
How to get around Lisbon in summer
Lisbon is a beautiful city, but if you go in summer, you probably won’t love climbing the hills or travelling from one point to another on foot. Within Lisbon itself, walking or using the streetcar or metro for certain routes is easy and convenient.
However, if you want to go to the beach or another nearby location, then the most practical way is by car. You can make as many stops as you like, improvise and not depend on public transportation schedules.
Recommended route to enjoy the summer in Lisbon
If you are travelling to Lisbon in summer, four or five days may be enough to see the essentials. If you stay a little longer, you can always have more beach days, but this is a good route to visit Lisbon in summer:
- Day 1: Visit the historic centre, Alfama, La Baixa, Praça do Comércio and the nearest viewpoints.
- Day 2: Go to Belém and spend an afternoon at the beach in Costa da Caparica.
- Day 3: Head to Sintra and continue to Cascais for a dinner overlooking the sea. The two towns are only 18 kilometres (11 miles) apart.
- Day 4: Sesimbra and Arrábida are the perfect ending if this is your last day in Lisbon.
The best way to get around Lisbon in the summer is to rent a car with OK Mobility at Lisbon Airport (LIS). The Portuguese capital hides many attractions in its historic centre, in the surroundings and nearby towns. You are sure to love it.
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