Lisbon’s Legendary 7 Hills

6-8 minuten

Why do your legs feel like jelly after a day in Lisbon? Simple: this city is built on seven hills! That’s exactly why those steep cobbled streets and squeaky old trams are such a big part of its charm. But trust me. Every step is worth it. Around you, colorful houses tumble down the hills like confetti, the sweet scent of fresh pastéis de nata floats through the air, and the vibe? Utterly relaxed and full of soul. The best part? You don’t even need a plan. Just wander. Behind every corner, something magical is waiting: a buzzing square with live music, a view that actually stops you in your tracks, or a tucked-away terrace that makes you want to sit down and stay for hours. In this blog, I’ll take you along for the ride and share my favorite tips to help you soak up Lisbon in the best, most unforgettable way.

AlfAma: getting lost is allowed

Alfama is one of those neighborhoods that gently forces you to take it easy. You wander through a dreamy maze of narrow alleyways. Sometimes so steep it feels more like a hike than a stroll. The houses? A riot of colors, a bit worn around the edges, but that’s exactly what makes them so charming. Blue azulejo tiles sparkle in the sunlight and above your head, laundry sways on lines strung between balconies like festive bunting. From a nearby doorway, the soulful sound of Fado drifts out: raw, emotional and strangely moving, even if you don’t understand a word. Somehow, it still gets under your skin. Find yourself a cozy terrace, order a Ginjinha (that sweet, spicy cherry liqueur you’ll instantly fall for) and just soak it all in: the view, the music, the magic. Saúde!

Tram 28: the most adventurous track in the city

Too tired to walk? Just hop on the iconic Tram 28, Lisbon’s bright yellow rollercoaster on rails. It clatters cheerfully through the city’s steepest and narrowest streets, squeezing past corners so tight you’d swear it won’t make it. You hold your breath … and then — just like that — it slides through with inches to spare. That’s exactly what makes the ride such a thrill. Grab a seat by the window and let the city unfold around you: pastel-colored facades, crooked alleyways, sun-drenched viewpoints. Every turn brings a new surprise, every jolt adds to the charm. This isn’t just public transport — it’s Lisbon in motion and you’ve got a front-row seat.

Bairro Alto by night

By day, Bairro Alto feels like it’s still rubbing the sleep from its eyes — shuttered bars, hushed streets, the occasional cat stretching in the sun. But when the sun dips behind Lisbon’s hills? That’s when the magic kicks in. Suddenly the streets come alive. Laughter bubbles up from every corner, glasses clink and a warm buzz fills the air. Each bar offers its own little world: one with soulful Fado echoing through the night, another blasting rock anthems, and just around the corner — a surprise dance party in full swing. The lines blur, the music mixes and everyone spills out onto the cobbled streets. That’s the charm of it all. Grab your favorite cocktail, strike up a conversation with some locals (they’ll probably adopt you for the night) and just go with the flow. This is Bairro Alto!

Belém: the hometown of the pastéis de nata

If you ask anyone from Lisbon where to get the real deal pastéis de nata, they’ll send you straight to Pastéis de Belém. This place has been baking those golden little beauties since 1837 — using a secret recipe that’s locked up tighter than the crown jewels. You’ll smell it before you see it — buttery, sweet, completely irresistible. And listen, don’t even think about ordering just one. Get at least two. Maybe more. The pastry is flaky and crisp, and the custard inside is warm, creamy and just melts in your mouth. Absolute heaven. This is the kind of food you travel for. But Belém’s not just about pastries. Once you’ve had your fill, it’s time to explore. First stop: Torre de Belém. It looks like something out of a fairytale, right on the water, with cute towers and those classic Portuguese tiles. It’s seriously Instagram-ready — and the view from there? Unreal. Keep walking and you’ll hit the Monument to the Discoveries — a massive stone tribute to Portugal’s explorers, shaped like a ship about to sail off into history. Climb to the top and you’ll get sweeping views over Belém, the glittering Tagus River, and if you’re lucky, a sunset that turns everything gold.

Baixa: Lisbon at its most chic

Strolling through Lisbon? The moment you hit Baixa, you’ll feel it — everything suddenly seems a bit grander, a bit more polished. Wide boulevards stretch out before you, flanked by elegant buildings in perfect symmetry. It’s almost as if the streets are encouraging you to stand a little taller. This is Lisbon’s beating heart, carefully rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755 — and yes, you can tell. The facades are stately, the balconies graceful and the details? Pure architectural eye candy. Start your walk at the majestic Praça do Comércio, that grand square overlooking the Tagus and make your way up to Rossio — all while passing more shops than your suitcase can handle. From chic boutiques to traditional stores, there’s plenty to tempt you. Need a break? Pull up a chair at one of the classic old-school cafés, complete with vintage metal chairs and waiters in black waistcoats. Sure, the coffee might be a bit pricier than elsewhere, but with this kind of ambiance? Totally worth it. And then, there it is — the Santa Justa Elevator. A dreamy iron tower straight out of a steampunk fantasy. Step inside and rise above the rooftops, until the whole city stretches out before you. The view? Unforgettable. A picture-perfect pause in a city that knows how to blend grace with chill.

Cascais: the perfect beachday

Lisbon got you climbing? Time to go to the beach. Just hop on the train at Cais do Sodré and in less than 40 minutes you’ll be cruising along the coast, headed straight for sunny Cascais. The train ride? It’s already a highlight. Think: golden beaches flashing by, palm trees swaying lazily and dreamlike villas perched along the ocean. Before you know it, you’ve arrived — and holiday mode kicks in instantly. The beach? Right outside the station. The town centre? Practically in flip-flop range. Wander through streets lined with whitewashed houses and shutters in every shade of summer. Grab a fresh smoothie from a colorful café window or sip an ice-cold Sumol like the locals do. And then? Just chill. Stretch out on the beach, take a dip, people-watch or do absolutely nothing. That’s the vibe. Oh, and whatever you do — don’t skip the seafood. This is a fishing village, after all. Snag a sunny table at a local restaurant, order a plate of sizzling sardines or perfectly grilled sea bream, and let the ocean flavors work their magic.

Lissabon: a city that won’t let you go

Some cities you see, others you experience — but Lisbon? Lisbon gets under your skin. Maybe it’s the sunshine that seems to show up just for you, the irresistible smell of fresh pastéis de nata that keeps pulling you back for more, or that soulful music floating through the streets like a warm embrace. But really, it’s the city’s magic. A little chaotic, bursting with life and so effortlessly charming that words just don’t do it justice. You’ve got to feel it. Breathe it in. Let it carry you away. One thing’s for sure: once Lisbon has you, it won’t let go.