Everything You Need To Know About Traveling Alone in Lisbon + Map

Thinking about traveling solo to Lisbon? When I first visited, I was honestly a bit judgmental. The buildings looked worn, the streets felt chaotic, and at a glance, the city did not feel polished or obviously “safe.”

That first impression turned out to be completely wrong. Lisbon’s slightly rough exterior hides neighborhoods that feel welcoming, easy to navigate, and far safer than they might look at first glance.

I came back, spent more time here, and eventually made Lisbon my home.

If you are new here, I’m Melissa! I make guides and itineraries for solo female travelers. This guide is for solo travelers who care about staying in comfortable, well-located boutique hotels, eating well without chasing hype, and focusing on what is actually worth your time.

How to Get To Lisbon From Humberto Delgado Airport

Getting from Lisbon Airport to the city center is very easy. I’ve done this trip many times since living here, and you have a few good options depending on your comfort level as a solo traveler.

The metro is a good option if you are arriving during the day and traveling light. It is affordable (€1.80), straightforward, and works well if your accommodation is near a metro stop.

I usually recommend the metro if:

• You land during normal daytime hours
• You have a backpack or small rolling suitcase
• You are staying somewhere flat or close to transit

If you are arriving late, feel exhausted, or are staying on a hill with luggage, I would skip the metro and take an Uber instead, expect to pay around (€10–€15), or book a transfer with Welcome Pickups. Lisbon’s hills can turn what looks like a short walk into a frustrating arrival.

🗺️ The metro is open from 6.30 am to 1 am, and a single fare costs €1.80. Download the Lisbon Subway Map here!

Truth About Safety for Solo Travelers in Lisbon

I have traveled to enough European cities and feel confident to safe Lisbon is one of the safer ones.

That does not mean you should drop your guard. In busy areas like Baixa or late at night in Cais do Sodré, it is still important to be aware of your belongings and use basic common sense. This is where petty theft can happen if you are distracted or careless.

I don’t worry about being attacked or having someone aggressively snatch my phone out of my hand. I walk confidently and feel comfortable moving around the city on my own. That said, I do not leave bags open, and I do not leave my phone sitting on the table at a busy cafe or bar.

The only area I am personally more aware in is Martim Moniz. It has a rougher reputation, and while it is not somewhere you need to panic about, I am more mindful there, especially at night. Other places that are often mentioned as less comfortable by travelers include Intendente and parts of Arroios.

These are not dangerous neighborhoods, but they can feel less relaxed late at night compared to more central or well-lit areas.

Best Areas To Stay Solo in Lisbon

Whenever I visit ANY city alone, I make it a point to stay in the city center, even if it means spending a bit more.

It’s worth the extra cost versus staying on the outskirts and feeling a bit insecure.

Lisbon’s Best Hostel For Solo Traveler

Staying in a hostel is a great way to meet people when you are traveling alone, I recommend it for anyone who tends to get lonely traveling. But staying in the “wrong hostel” could do damage to the enjoyment of your trip!

Everyone raves about Yes! Lisbon Hostel, so I had to check it out for myself to see if it was actually worth staying here.

And I have to say that this place checks out! It’s well kept, conveniently located, and has AIR CONDITIONING, which, news flash, is a big deal in Lisbon!

Best Hotel in Lisbon for Solo Travelers

If hostels aren’t your jam, I totally understand. They’re definitely an acquired taste, not for everyone.

Lucky for us, there are some fantastic hotels out there that won’t make your wallet cry, especially for solo travelers. My absolute favorite? Alecrim ao Chiado.

It’s right in the heart of everything, offers the bliss of air conditioning, and won’t break the bank.

Neighborhoods to Avoid in Lisbon

Some neighborhoods may seem central, and the hotels might even have good reviews, but you should still consider avoiding them when possible.

• Intendente- This area sees a little more homelessness than you want to see walking alone at night. Don’t worry if you do end up staying in this neighborhood; just be more vigilant.
• Martim Moniz– Located north of Baixa-Chiado, and not a wildly unsafe area, but an area to avoid if possible. If you find yourself here during the day, you don’t have to worry; there are just nicer areas to stay where you would feel more comfortable.
• Chelas– If you are aiming to stay central, you won’t even come across Chelas. Located just east of the airport, it is a neighborhood that has social housing and has had more issues in recent years.

Suggested solo budget (per day)

Style	Stay	Food	Transport	Activities	Total
Saver	€35–€60 hostel	€20–€30	€4–€8	€0–€10	€59–€108
Mid	€85–€140 boutique	€30–€45	€6–€12	€10–€20	€131–€217
Comfortable	€160–€250 hotel	€45–€70	€8–€15	€20–€35	€233–€370

Fun Things To Do Alone in Lisbon

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Something I loved when I first started traveling solo was the ability to do whatever I felt on any given day!

And when you are solo in Lisbon there’s an endless list of things to dive into, so boredom is off the table, guaranteed.

Check out my go-to list of activities to keep your adventure in Lisbon jam-packed with fun.

Get the Lisbon Card and get free access to many of the most famous museums and discounted entry to the most popular attractions. PLUS: Free Access to Lisbon Metro System!

Explore Castelo de S. Jorge (SÃO JORGE CASTLE)

You don’t have to be a history lover to enjoy a visit to the iconic hilltop castle, Castelo de S. Jorge. This castle dates back to the 11th century when it was a Moorish fortification.

Plan to spend around an hour exploring the interiors and climbing the walls for different viewpoints of the city.

Pro tip: Try to time your visit around sunset! The panoramic views are spectacular.

GET YOUR TICKETS ONLINE: The amount of people who just show up and wait in line baffles me. I paid a few more bucks for an online ticket cost, but it is worth it. Stand in line entry to the castle is €15. It will gives you access to the grounds, towers, and exhibitions inside this significant landmark. Open daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (may differ on holidays).

Ride The 28 Tram

The 28 tram in Lisbon takes you on a cool ride through the city’s old and beautiful spots. It starts at Martim Moniz, then goes up to the Graça area where you can see awesome views of Lisbon.

This tram zigzags through Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto, towards Estrela, passing by Basílica da Estrela, ending in Campo de Ourique, near Prazeres cemetery.

This tram ride is a fun way to see many different parts of Lisbon and some famous spots.

GOOD TO KNOW: The tram can become extremely crowded, making it less enjoyable to stand during the ride. To secure a window seat, it’s best to head to the starting point at Martim Moniz around 7:30 a.m. when there are far fewer people.

You can get a ticket when boarding the tram for €3 or buy a prepaid ticket at any metro station. Just buy the Navegante Card and pre-load it with at least €6.

Eat Pastel de Nata on a Terrace with a View

Have your Pastel de Nata and eat it with a view! Lisbon is known for its kiosks selling coffee, tea cocktails, and delicious snacks!

My favorite kiosk in Lisbon is located at Quiosque Porta Do Sol. This is also an epic spot to watch the sunset.

Go to a Fado Show

Going to a Fado show is touristy, sure, but it’s totally worth it. It’s one of those must-do things in Lisbon!

For those who don’t know, Fado is an emotional type of Portuguese music. Hearing it live is super special.

You’ll find these shows, often including dinner, in cozy spots, like small bars and old-school restaurants. I can recommend O Corrido in Alfama.

It was €47 (CASH ONLY) for a 3-course dinner and a show.

Shop for Crafts & Books at LX Factory

If you are looking for unique handmade gifts and cool souvenirs you should make your way to LX Factory. It is most popular on weekends with additional vendors.

The old industrial complex turned shopping & dining spot is full of street art and one-of-a-kind finds!

LX factory is outside the city center, but a quick and cheap UBER can get you there in no time.

Explore Belém Tower and “Padrão dos Descobrimentos”

Something to pair well with a day to LX Factory is going to explore Belém and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument. These attractions are just beyond the LX factory a few more stops on the train.

Start by getting off the train from Cais do Sodré to the Belém stop. First, walk to the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, then walk ahead to the Belém tower.

You can climb to the top of the tower for some great views, but if the line is long, you could skip it.

Browse at Feira de Ladra ‘Thieves Market’

Browsing at Feira de Ladra market, known as the ‘Thieves Market,’ is a fun way to spend a day on a Tuesday or Saturday (closed the rest of the week).

It’s more antiques and buried treasured than anything else. It is free to enter and located in the Campo de Santa Clara area, near the National Pantheon (Church of Santa Engrácia).

Have a Drink in Bairro Alto on a Rooftop for Sunset

A little hidden gem in Lisbon is the Rooftop bar at the Bairro Alto Hotel! It is the BEST place to have a cocktail as the sun sets over the city.

It might be smart to call ahead and see if you can get a reservation. As a solo traveler, I often get lucky and can sneak in, but you might want to play it safe.

Alternative Rooftop Bars I love in Lisbon:

• Java Rooftop (Santos)
• Park Bar (Bairro Alto)
• Sky Bar (Av. da Liberdade)
• Topo Chiado (Chiado)

Visit Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square

It’s almost safe to assume that you won’t miss the two famous squares in Lisbon, the Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square!

Things not to miss in Praca do Comercio are:

• Lisboa Story Centre: Interactive museum of the history of Lisbon and the earthquake of 1755.
• Martinho da Arcada: The oldest cafe in Lisbon where famous poet Fernando Pessoa frequented.
• Ribeira das Naus: Waterfront promenade along the Tagus River.

Things Not To Miss in Rossio Square:

• A Ginjinha: Just off Rossio, visit this tiny bar to try Ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur.
• Rossio Gastrobar: An incredible spot for a rooftop cocktail and snacks at sunset.

Visit the Cathedral

If you’re in Alfama, you’ll definitely see the big Cathedral, Sé de Lisboa. It’s a nice spot to chill and grab a coffee at the nearby kiosk.

There is a small entrance fee of 5€ to visit the Cathedral, so if you are tight on money, you could skip an interior visit.

Take a Day Trip

While there are more than a couple of day trips you can make from Lisbon, there are two you should really consider.

If the weather is nice, a day trip to the beach town of Cascais is a no-brainer! Just 40 minutes north, and you will arrive in the most beautiful coastal town. I would plan to spend at least 2-3 hours walking around and exploring. Trust me, Cascais is worth visiting!

Alternatively, you could make the day trip to Sintra! Another 40-minute train ride will take you to this magical forest with the most incredible castles, museums, and old town.

Deciding between Cascais or Sintra can be tough, hopefully, you have time for both!

Getting Around Lisbon

Many of the attractions in Lisbon are all within walking distance of each other which makes it very convenient.

However, something you need to have to get around easily in Lisbon is stamina!

You might have seen memes and funny Instagram reels of people going 100 meters straight uphill. And it’s no exaggeration. Lisbon is full of steep inclines and hundreds upon hundreds of stairs.

Luckily, there is a metro, BUT the metro doesn’t get close enough to some of the places you might want to go.

Trams will take you within the neighborhoods and up those hills, but thanks to tourism, they can be very crowded.

My advice is get some comfortable shoes, and don’t worry about how they look, you’ll appreciate the tip.

PRO TIP: I know it sounds “gimmicky” but you should really get the Lisbon card! It comes with free access to the transit system + loads of attractions.

Things to Be Cautious of in Lisbon

1. The tiled sidewalks are pretty, but VERY SLIPPERY! Most slippery when wet and in the heat. It can be downright dangerous, especially if you have mobility concerns. Bring slip-proof shoes like these.
2. Stay clear of Drug Pushers. More common in areas like Barrio Alto or on Pink Street, you might encounter people pushing drugs. Just walk away.
3. Don’t assume all hotels have air conditioning. Surprisingly many don’t and the summer months get very warm.

Where to Next?

After you’ve fully explored Lisbon, you might be wondering where you should go next. Another city that is fantastic for solo travel is Porto!

While I’d argue you need more than 24 hours in Porto, if that’s all you have you should go! Porto is located north, 3 hours by train from Lisbon.

It is the 2nd largest city in Portugal with so much to see and do it’s the perfect next destination!

Now, if you don’t want to go as far north is Porto you should consider visiting Ericeria! This idyllic little beach town is conveniently located under an hour from Lisbon!

The weather in Porto is less pleasant than Lisbon, so if that is the case, you can also consider visiting the Algarve for a few days!

Faro is located just 3 hours south of Lisbon and it is a good base to make many day trips from!

No matter whether you go north or south, you will certainly love all the solo travel you can do within this beautiful country!

Planning A Trip to Portugal?