Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe's most scenic cruise destinations. Known for its dramatic hills, tile-covered buildings, and rich maritime history, Lisbon combines old-world charm with vibrant street life. Cruise passengers will find it easy to explore due to the port's proximity to historic neighborhoods, excellent viewpoints, and cultural landmarks—all within a few hours of leisure-friendly access.
Cruise Docking Information
Lisbon is a docking port, with cruise ships arriving at the Lisbon Cruise Terminal (Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa), located at Santa Apolónia. The port is modern and well-equipped, and it handles over 500,000 passengers annually. It is situated approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) from the city center, reachable in about 15–20 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi. Facilities include passenger services, a tourist information desk, shops, and access to public transport.
Transportation Options
- Walking: The city center and Alfama district are within 20 minutes' walk (about 1.5 km / 0.9 miles).
- Taxi: Readily available at the terminal with short travel times to major sites.
- Public Transport: Santa Apolónia station offers metro and rail services. Tram 28, a famous heritage route, also serves nearby areas.
Nearby towns: Sintra (29 km / 18 miles – 40 min by train), Cascais (30 km / 19 miles – 40 min by train), Estoril (26 km / 16 miles – 35 min by train).
Main Attractions in Lisbon
- Belém Tower – A UNESCO-listed fortress with views of the Tagus River.
- Jerónimos Monastery – A grand Gothic monastery with maritime significance.
- Alfama District – The city’s oldest neighborhood, known for Fado music and narrow alleys.
- Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) – A riverside plaza with elegant architecture.
- Santa Justa Lift – An iron elevator offering panoramic views of the city.
- Lisbon Cathedral – A historic Romanesque cathedral near the port.
- Time Out Market – A food hall with curated Portuguese cuisine and drinks.
Nearby touristic destinations
- Sintra – A fairy-tale town with palaces, including Pena Palace. Photo opportunities at the palace terraces. (40 min by train)
- Cascais – A beachside town with a promenade, cafes, and sandy shores. (40 min by train)
- Estoril – Famous for its casino and relaxed atmosphere. (35 min by train)
- Cristo Rei Statue – A towering statue overlooking Lisbon, similar to Rio’s Christ the Redeemer. (25 min by car)
Interesting Facts
- Lisbon predates other major European capitals like London and Paris by centuries.
- The famous earthquake of 1755 destroyed much of the city, leading to a massive reconstruction.
- Lisbon’s traditional Fado music is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Geographical Position and Surroundings
Lisbon is situated along the Tagus River, close to the Atlantic Ocean. The city is built on seven hills, which provide dramatic views and steep streets. Its climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Natural surroundings include riverbanks, beaches to the west, and forested areas around Sintra.
Local Foods
- Pastéis de Nata – Sweet custard tarts, best enjoyed warm from Belém.
- Bacalhau à Brás – A shredded salted cod dish mixed with potatoes and eggs.
- Sardinhas Assadas – Grilled sardines, especially popular in summer festivals.
- Bifana – A seasoned pork sandwich often sold at food stalls.
- Ginja – A sour cherry liqueur traditionally served in chocolate cups.
Destination ‘secrets’
- Viewpoint of Senhora do Monte – A quieter, high-altitude spot with stunning city views.
- Casa do Alentejo – A Moorish-style hidden restaurant and cultural center near Rossio Square.
- Museu Nacional do Azulejo – A museum dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles, located in a former convent.
Local Customs and Culture
Portuguese people are friendly and polite. A basic greeting in Portuguese is appreciated. Dining is a relaxed affair, and tipping 5–10% is customary. Fado music performances are a central part of Lisbon’s cultural life. Summer festivals like the Festas de Lisboa bring parades, food stalls, and street music, especially in June.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Children up to 6 years old – Ride on Tram 28 or explore Lisbon Oceanarium.
- Children between 7 and 12 – Interactive exhibits at Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Science Pavilion).
- Teenagers aged 13 to 18 – Walking tours, photography at viewpoints, or a visit to the MAAT contemporary art museum.
See Lisbon on Google Maps
Notice: Port information is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this destination. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information such as visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app. Please note that distances, travel times and pricing may have some inaccuracies or may be outdated. Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. *