17 Best Things To Do Alone in Lisbon For Solo Travellers
So you’re travelling to Lisbon solo and now you’re wondering: what are the actual best things to do alone in Lisbon that won’t feel awkward, overwhelming, or like you’re missing out?
Well, you’re in exactly the right place to find out!
(And no, this isn’t another one of those generic lists written by someone who’s never stepped foot in Portugal!)
I’ve done this exact trip to Lisbon solo, more than once, perfecting my dream itinerary with every new visit to Portugal’s sun-drenched, charming capital.
I’ve spent slow, early mornings wandering the streets of Alfama, waited for that perfect no-ad tram shot outside Lisbon Cathedral (yep, I’ll tell you how to get it too!), and watched countless sunsets from the picturesque Santa Catarina miradouro.
And I’ve packed all of that experience (and more!) into this guide, so you can feel totally confident about exploring Lisbon solo, on your own terms.
Let’s get into it!
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Is Lisbon Worth Visiting as a Solo Female Traveller?
Yes. A hundred times yes!
Lisbon is one of the most rewarding, low-stress and genuinely enjoyable capital cities in Europe to visit as a solo traveller (and especially as a solo female traveller!)
Lisbon is safe, easy to navigate, affordable (especially compared to other Western European cities!), and full of very walkable neighbourhoods.
And whether you’re an experienced solo traveller or just taking your first ever solo trip, Lisbon has that perfect (and rare!) sweet spot: enough going on that you’ll never feel bored, but not so overwhelming that it drains your energy or feels like too much!
The vibe in Lisbon is laid-back but lively. Locals are generally kind and respectful. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. And solo travel is incredibly normal in Portugal, so you won’t look (or feel) out of place!
The 17 Best Things to do Alone in Lisbon for Solo Travellers
1. Get Lost in Alfama’s Alleyways
There’s no better introduction to Lisbon than wandering the picturesque streets of Alfama – without a map or a plan!
The Alfama district is one of the oldest (and most beautiful) neighbourhoods in the entire city and, in my opinion, getting deliberately “lost” here is the very best thing to do in Lisbon alone.
You don’t need a plan, a map or a crazy long itinerary of must-see sights to be able to enjoy Alfama’s (and Lisbon’s) true beauty.
In fact, I would advise against overplanning here (especially if you want to explore the most beautiful, hidden corners of the neighbourhood that most tourists miss if they stick to Google Maps).
Instead, just follow the cobblestones and let the city surprise you around every corner!
Alfama is slow travel at its very best!
Katie’s Top Tip: Visit Alfama early in the morning to avoid the intense midday heat and overwhelming number of tour groups. Start your walk near Miradouro de Santa Luzia and then just let yourself wander downhill, wherever your feet take you.
2. Lisbon Cathedral (+ That Iconic Tram Shot!)
Right outside Lisbon Cathedral (also known as Sé), you’ll find one of the city’s most iconic photo opportunities: the yellow Tram 28 slowly curving past the centuries-old stone façade of the cathedral!
And if you time it right, you’ll get that perfect no-advertisement shot that looks like it’s come straight off an iconic Lisbon postcard.
This is one of the most photographed spots in Lisbon, and for good reason!
And the cathedral itself is worth admiring (or popping into) too. It’s the oldest church in the city and dates back to the 12th century, with a beautiful mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
Katie’s Top Tip: Head to Lisbon Cathedral early in the morning (before 9am is best), if you want the iconic tram photo without crowds (or those modern ads they stick on the trams!) It’s hit or miss, but I’ve had the best success with non-ad-covered trams on weekdays. Also, the tram/bus stop to your right (as you face the front of the cathedral) is the very best spot to get the photo.
3. Stroll Down Rua Augusta
Rua Augusta is Lisbon’s main pedestrian street, and while it’s definitely touristy, it’s still worth visiting solo.
It runs through the heart of the Baixa district, all the way from Praca do Comercio and the grand Arco da Rua Augusta, to the bustling Rossio Square.
And along the way, you’ll find that the street is lined with talented street performers to listen to, independent shops to browse, and outdoor cafés for a spot of people watching in the sunshine.
It’s one of those streets that feels alive at all hours, but still totally comfortable to explore alone as a solo female traveller!
Katie’s Top Tip: For an underrated view, go inside the Arco da Rua Augusta. From there, you’ll get a panoramic view over the Tagus river and Lisbon’s rooftops (and often with barely anyone else up there!)
4. Watch the Sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Sunset is when Lisbon comes alive, and Miradouro de Santa Catarina is where both locals and tourists come to relax and admire the beauty of Lisbon’s terracotta rooftops, stretching out to meet the Tagus below.
There’s often also live music from street performers, locals enjoying drinks, people reading or journaling on one of the many benches, and there is always a great energy and atmosphere.
Plus, it’s a lot less touristy than other, more central miradouros, for example Portas do Sol (which we will get to later!), meaning you get to experience a more local side to Lisbon.
Located just behind the Bica funicular, this stunning viewpoint looks out over the rooftops, the Tagus river and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring your own drink or snack and head there around golden hour (just before sunset) or early in the morning, for truly gorgeous lighting.
5. Take a Day Trip to Sintra and Pena Palace
If you only take one day trip from Lisbon, let it be this one!
Sintra is straight out of a storybook, with pastel palaces on hilltops, moss-covered gardens, hidden lakes and winding forest paths that feel like they belong in a fantasy novel!
As a solo traveller, it’s an easy and fun escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and also one of the best things to do alone in Lisbon.
But having said that, getting the logistics right makes a huge difference to how much you will enjoy Sintra as a solo traveller.
Pena Palace is almost always packed with tourists by midday (or earlier in summer).
And it’s also surrounded by enormous, intricate gardens and forest trails that most tourists skip or gloss over. But for me, the gardens were where Pena Palace really shone. And you absolutely should not miss them.
So whether you visit Sintra independently or with a guide, this Lisbon day trip can be absolutely unforgettable – if you pick the right option for your travel style.
How to get to Sintra and Pena Palace from Lisbon:
By train: You can absolutely visit Sintra using public transport (it’s easy and budget-friendly), but it does require a bit of planning. From Rossio Station, you will take a direct train to Sintra (40 minutes). Then, from Sintra Station, you’ll need to take the local 434 shuttle bus to reach Pena Palace, which sits high in the hills.
By car: If you’re confident driving abroad, you can hire a car and explore at your own pace, as Pena Palace is just 40 minutes from Lisbon. But be aware that parking near Pena Palace is limited and can be busy and stressful at peak times.
By guided tour: If you want zero stress, a small group tour is honestly the best way to visit Sintra from Lisbon. This full day, small group tour from Lisbon to Sintra is the one I took, and I highly recommend it. The tour includes round-trip transport from Lisbon, timed-entry tickets to Pena Palace, a proper guided tour through the palace and its forested gardens (in my opinion, the best part!) Plus, on top of all of that, you have free time to explore Sintra itself, a visit to Cabo da Roca (continental Europe’s westernmost point!), and a stop in the charming seaside town of Cascais.
By private tour: If you want to travel on your own terms but still have everything taken care of, a private tour is another great option. You’ll get a local driver/guide all to yourself, who can customise the day to your pace and preferences. Want to spend longer exploring the forest trails? You can do that! Prefer to skip Cabo da Roca and have more time in Cascais? That’s totally fine! You’ll also get hotel pick-up and drop-off, flexible timing and often some lesser-known detour stops that other tours can’t offer!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re travelling to Lisbon alone and want to visit Sintra without the hassle, book this small-group tour that includes Pena Palace, Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca. It’s honestly the most relaxed way to experience the area – and you’ll meet other travellers too, if that’s your thing!
6. Join a Local Walking Tour
Solo travel in Lisbon doesn’t have to mean being alone the entire time.
Joining a local-led city walking tour is one of the best ways to connect with the city you’re visiting, other travellers, and your local guide.
And in my opinion, walking tours are one of the best ways to get your bearings in any new city, especially if you join one on your first full day.
It’s a few hours where someone else is in charge (if you’re a solo traveller already, you know how nice that is!), and you don’t have to think about anything other than enjoying the culture, history and secret spots you’d probably miss or gloss over on your own.
Here are a few options for Lisbon walking tours I would recommend:
- Classic Lisbon Highlights Tour – This local-led, small group classic Lisbon walking tour is ideal if it’s your first time in Lisbon. You’ll visit the highlights of Alfama, Baixa, Chiado and Rossio, with loads of historical and cultural context to help you understand what you’re seeing. This is a great foundation for the rest of your trip, too!
- Fado + Food Tour – This one’s for music lovers and foodies! You’ll get insider access to tiny fado venues, learn the history of the genre, and taste traditional Portuguese dishes along the way!
- Street Art Tour – If traditional sightseeing’s not your thing, this Lisbon street art walking tour is super cool. Lisbon has a huge urban art scene (seriously, it’s everywhere!), and this tour gives proper context to the artists and meaning behind the murals.
7. Experience Live Fado in Alfama or Bairro Alto
Katie’s Top Tip: Pick a small group tour, if you can. You’ll get way more from the guide, and it’s easier to connect with others if you feel like chatting after. Oh and trust me, a small tour feels way less awkward solo than a huge group with 30 people and a guide with a megaphone!
You don’t need to understand Portuguese to enjoy an evening of live fado.
Portugal’s traditional fado music is raw, emotional and unlike any other music genre you’ve probably heard – making it totally unique to the country and a very worthy thing to do in Lisbon as a solo traveller.
You’ve got two main options for venues: Alfama and Bairro Alto.
Alfama has more traditional, intimate venues, often in small restaurants with dim lighting and traditional Portuguese food.
Bairro Alto is more varied: some places have free fado with a drink, while others offer special performances that you have to book.
But either way, you don’t need to feel awkward going alone. Plenty of tourists will show up to these kind of events solo, so you won’t be the only one!
Katie’s Top Tip: Book your fado experience in advance, as the best venues do sell out (especially in peak season). And if you can, book a fado concert that includes traditional Portuguese dinner and drink, for the very best local experience!
8. Ride the Historic Tram 28
Yes, it’s touristy. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing!
Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s most famous experiences, and riding it end-to-end takes you through the city’s most historic, beautiful neighbourhoods – without you having to walk up and down those endless hills yourself!
This iconic Lisbon tram rattles and squeals its way through the districts of Graca, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela, offering both a cheap and nostalgic way to see the city!
But here’s what to know: this tram line is iconic and over-hyped on social media, which means it gets very crowded (especially at midday and in high season).
That’s why flexibility is key to actually enjoying your time on tram 28.
And luckily, as a solo traveller, you have flexibility in abundance. One of the greatest benefits of solo travel is not having to adjust your itinerary to suit anyone else’s needs!
So use that flexibility to go early (ideally before 9am – yep, that early!) and start at Martim Moniz to get a seat.
Sit on the right-hand side of the tram for the best views as you climb up Alfama. (Oh and remember to be grateful to even have a seat, because if you were travelling during the midday peak I promise it would be a very different experience!)
Katie’s Top Tip: Use your Viva Viagem card (the same one for the metro), to save money – don’t pay onboard. Keep your valuables secure and tucked away (pickpockets love this tram). And treat the ride like a sightseeing tour rather than transport for the best experience!
9. Walk Along Ribeira das Naus (Lisbon’s Waterfront Promenade)
Almost always, the best solo travel moments are the simple ones.
Places you visit with no ticket needed and no queues.
Just you, the glorious Portuguese sun on your back, and the gentle sound of water, as you watch the boats and people go by.
Sounds perfect, right?!
Well, that’s exactly what Ribeira das Naus in Lisbon offers!
It’s a long, laid-back promenade along the Tagus River, stretching between Praca do Comercio and Cais do Sodre, and it’s one of the most peaceful best things to do alone in Lisbon if you just want to relax and people-watch by the water.
Katie’s Top Tip: Grab a drink and a takeaway pastel de nata (Portugal’s traditional pastry), and head to Ribeira das Naus when you feel like you need a break from constant sightseeing. It’s the perfect spot to stop, relax and reset for a while!
10. Explore Belem and Jerónimos Monastery
Belem is where Lisbon truly shows off, giving you an incredible Lisbon day trip – without you ever having to leave the city!
And yet it feels like you’re a whole world away from the capital.
With wide riverfront paths to wander, a more relaxed vibe than central Lisbon, and grand monuments to admire, Belem is the kind of place where you can spend hours just wandering, sitting by the water or discovering the fascinating history of Portugal’s age of discoveries.
The jewel of Belem is the Jerónimos Monastery, an ornate, UNESCO-listed, Gothic Manueline architectural gem, now home to a fascinating museum about the history and culture of Portugal.
Inside the 15th century Jerónimos Monastery, you’ll find gothic arches, intricately carved cloisters and the Church of Santa Maria, as well as fascinating exhibits to explore and learn from.
And once you’ve finished exploring Jerónimos Monastery, the area has plenty of open-air cafes and quiet spots to rest and enjoy the views.
You can walk to the Monument to the Discoveries, see the Torre de Belem, and (non-negotiable) grab a pastel de nata from the original Pasteis de Belem bakery!
Katie’s Top Tip: Book your Jerónimos Monastery ticket in advance online as queues can be massive in peak season! Or, if you want to skip the line and learn about the monastery from a knowledgeable local guide, I would really recommend this small group tour (which also includes entrance tickets, so you don’t have to worry about getting tickets yourself!)
11. Soak Up the Atmosphere in Bairro Alto
The Bairro Alto district is Lisbon’s nightlife hub, but during the day, it transforms into a surprisingly peaceful spot filled with local cafes, indie shops and a lovely atmosphere!
It’s a beautiful neighbourhood to wander around solo and again, like with Alfama, it’s better explored without a map or a plan.
So just follow the cobbled streets, stop by tiny indie stores that grab your interest, and grab a coffee at one of the many small cafes lining the streets.
By evening, the mood shifts. Bairro Alto buzzes with both tourists and locals out to drinks, dinner or a night of dancing, with rooftop bars, nightclubs and the sound of Fado music.
As a solo traveller, it’s one of the best places to enjoy more of Lisbon’s social culture (and nightlife, if you want to), without it being overwhelming.
You can just sit in a bar with a glass of wine and live Fado music, enjoy dinner for one at a traditional Portuguese restaurant, or even join a night-time walking tour if you want some structure and people to explore with.
Some highlights to look out for in Bairro Alto are:
- Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcântara for panoramic city views
- Cervejaria Trindade, Lisbon’s oldest beer hall
- Local ginjinha stands (it’s cherry liqueur – try it once!)
- Vintage boutiques and quirky galleries
- Rooftop bars like Topo Chiado
Katie’s Top Tip: Bairro Alto can feel a bit rowdy late at night, especially on weekends. So if you’re not into the party vibe, visit during the day or in the early evening instead, or book a group bar tour so you’re not alone.
12. Take a Day Trip to Arrabida Natural Park
Dreaming of a natural coastline, jagged cliffs and sea air, without booking a separate trip to the Algarve?
Then the underrated Arrabida Natural Park is your dream Lisbon day trip!
Just under an hour south of Lisbon, this protected area is home to some of Portugal’s most beautiful natural landscapes, from turquoise coves and bustling Sesimbra to hidden beaches like Mecco and the unbelievably pretty Portinho da Arrabida.
The pace is slower here in Arrabida Natural Park, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Portugal’s capital!
It’s one of the best things to do alone in Lisbon if you want to get out in nature without having to travel too far to get there.
But some parts are only accessible by foot or with the knowledge (and all access permit) of local guides, so having a plan matters for this Lisbon day trip.
How to get from Lisbon to Arrabida Natural Park
By car: Renting a car gives you total freedom. But be mindful though: some roads are steep and narrow, and parking can be tricky in summer or in spots where only guides with permits are allowed to park.
By public transport: You can take a train to Setubal from Lisbon Sete Rios, then connect to other parts of the natural park via local bus or taxi, or by booking a guided tour from Setubal. It’s possible, but not ideal for reaching the most beautiful areas of coastline.
Small group tour: This Arrabida + Sesimbra day tour that I took is a true gem and, in my opinion, the best way to explore Arrabida Natural Park in one day. It hits all the main highlights: Mecco Beach, Cabo Espichel, Santuario de Nossa Senhora, the fishing town of Sesimbra, the Moorish castle ruins and Setubal. Plus, your local guide will take you to those hidden corners where regular cars aren’t even allowed! I had the best time on this day tour and would highly recommend it!
Private tour: For total flexibility and a more private, one-on-one experience, hiring a private driver-guide is a great option. This is ideal if you want to hike, swim or stop off at local wineries and don’t want to be on someone else’s timetable!
Katie’s Top Tip: Wear good walking shoes as some viewpoints can be rocky and/or slippery. But you’ll also be visiting beaches (and you will want to at least paddle!), so keep that in mind too when choosing what to wear.
13. Enjoy the View from Lisbon’s Most Iconic Miradouro’s
Yes, they are popular. Yes, they will busy. But there’s a good reason that the view from either Miradouro das Portas do Sol or Miradouro de Santa Luzia show up on every Lisbon postcard and Instagram feed…
The views are genuinely that beautiful!
They are just one minute apart and both offer sweeping views over the terracotta rooftops of Alfama and the glittering Tagus River beyond.
Plus, they are also the perfect spots to relax with a good book or your journal, or even just people-watch from a bench.
And they’re easy to find too. Just follow Tram 28’s tracks uphill from Lisbon’s waterfront or walk from Lisbon Cathedral (just 5 minutes’ walk away).
Katie’s Top Tip: Come early for quiet photos or in the late afternoon for golden hour. But whatever the time, these two neighbouring miradouros are one of the most iconic things to do in Lisbon for solo travellers!
14. Admire Lisbon’s Churches
Even if you’re not religious, Lisbon’s churches are worth visiting just for the art and architecture alone.
They’re also a great way to escape the intense midday sun (or rain!) and spend some quiet time, without needing a plan.
Start with the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) if you haven’t already seen it. It’s the city’s oldest and sits right on the Tram 28 route.
Then explore the Church of Sao Roque (in Bairro Alto) with its beautiful gilded chapels.
If you have time, the Igreja de Santa Catarina and Basilica da Estrela are both peaceful, beautiful churches that rarely get crowded.
Katie’s Top Tip: Many of Lisbon’s churches are free to enter, but bring a few euro coins in case there’s a small fee for chapels or museums. And always dress respectfully (covered shoulders).
15. Take a Day Trip to Evora
Another (unfairly!) underrated Lisbon day trip, Evora is one of those places that is off a lot of tourist radars, but will definitely blow you away if you give it a chance.
Tucked away in Portugal’s Alentejo region, this UNESCO-listed city feels like stepping into a living museum, with Roman temples, whitewashed houses, a Gothic cathedral and even a Chapel of Bones (!!) all packed into its walkable, beautiful centre.
And it’s one of those rare cities that doesn’t feel anything like a city.
Instead, Evora gives you space to explore slowly, take a million photos (not much exaggeration, I promise!), and learn about Portugal’s layered history without the usual, overwhelming tourist crowds.
So if you’re travelling to Lisbon alone and want a slower escape from the city buzz (while still having loads to see and do!), Evora is the perfect addition to your Lisbon itinerary.
How to get to Evora from Lisbon
By car: If you’re driving, the journey takes around 1 hour 20 minutes each way.
By bus: The bus from Lisbon Sete Rios to Evora bus station takes 1.5 hours with Rede Expressos or Flixbus, and there are regular daily departures. The bus station in Evora is a 20 minute walk from the Roman Temple.
By train: The train from Lisbon Sete Rios to Evora takes around 1 hour 20 minutes. Or from Lisbon Oriente it takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. The train station in Evora is also a 20 minute walk from the Roman Temple.
By guided tour: If you don’t want the bother of renting a car or navigating public transport, a guided tour is the easiest way to visit Evora in a day. I really recommend this small-group Evora tour that includes hotel pickup and drop off, a guided walk through the historic centre, a visit (with entry included!) to the Chapel of Bones, and plenty of free time to explore Evora at your own pace too.
By private tour: With the help of a private guide, you can tailor your entire Evora day trip around your interests, so if you’re into history, food, sightseeing or wine, you can build your day around that. You also won’t have to worry about waiting for a group or sticking to a rigid schedule. It’s definitely more of a splurge, but if you want total flexibility and one-on-one access to your local guide, it’s 100% worth it!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you do decide to visit Evora solo, download an offline map of Evora in advance. It’s super walkable, but the winding streets can get confusing if you don’t know where you’re going. It’s a lot less overwhelming if you have an ideal route mapped out in advance.
16. Ride the Elevador da Bica
The Elevador da Bica isn’t just a practical way to conquer Lisbon’s famously steep hills, it’s also one of the most photogenic places in the entire city!
Running since 1892, this funicular trundles up and down a postcard-perfect street between Rua de Sao Paulo and Largo do Calhariz.
But here’s the thing: you don’t actually have ride it (unless you want to of course), you can just come for the view alone – which is nothing short of iconic Lisbon!
If you time it right, you can get that perfect, quintessential Lisbon shot: the yellow tram climbing up a cobbled street, with pastel houses on either side and the river peeking through in the distance.
Early morning (before 10am or even 9am in peak summer), is best if you want an uninterrupted photo without big tour groups or other tourists standing in the way of your shot.
But if you do want to ride it, it’s included in a Viva Viagem transport card (used for buses and trams), and takes less than 5 minutes from bottom to top.
Katie’s Top Tip: Stand halfway between Largo do Calhariz (at the top) and Rua de Sao Paulo (at the bottom). I stood by the street Tv. Da Laranjeira, on the right hand side (as you’re looking down the street). Walking down the track will get you the best shot and fewer people in your photos, as most tourists will wait at either end of the line to get pictures, so it’s always busier.
17. Take a Yacht Cruise on the Tagus
Of all the best things to do alone in Lisbon, this is the most peaceful and was actually one of the highlights of my entire trip to Lisbon!
Sailing down the Tagus River gives you a totally different perspective of the city, with sweeping views of the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, the Monument to the Discoveries, Belem Tower and Lisbon’s stunning cityscape… all from the comfort of a relaxing yacht!
I did a two-hour morning sailing from Belem with a small group, and it was so relaxing!
There were just six of us on board, a welcome drink was included and you could sit back and relax in your own company or chat with the skipper or other travellers, if you wanted to.
I found that the morning cruise was peaceful and quiet (compared to the queue I saw for later, bigger boat sailings), which is ideal if you want to enjoy the sunshine and views in peace.
But if you want that stunning golden light (and don’t mind sharing with a few loved up couples!), sunset is also a gorgeous time for this boat trip on the Tagus.
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring a light jacket. Even in summer, the breeze can be chilly! And don’t skip Belem’s cafés nearby for a pre- or post-sail pastel de nata!
Lisbon For Solo Travellers FAQs
What’s the Best Time to Visit Lisbon?
The best time to visit Lisbon is from late April to early June or September to mid-October.
These shoulder seasons have the perfect balance of fewer crowds, long sunny days, reliably lovely weather, and just enough buzz to make the city feel alive (but not chaotic!)
Summer (July and August) is the high season, which means much bigger crowds and higher prices. Lisbon also gets hot – like really hot! So it’s not a great time for city sightseeing.
Winters are still mild and much quieter, plus prices are a lot more affordable too. The weather is more unpredictable and some day trips (like Arrabida Natural Park) wind down, but it’s still a great season for a Lisbon city break.
How to Visit Lisbon Alone
Travelling to Lisbon alone is genuinely easy.
The international airport is well-connected with daily direct flights from most major European cities, and other countries too (including 10 US states, China, South Korea, Dubai and more).
Once you land, you’re only about 20 minutes from the city centre by taxi, bus or metro.
And getting around Lisbon is just as easy.
The metro is clean, safe and easy to navigate. Trams and buses cover most of the city, and the Viva Viagem card makes paying for transport simple (just top it up as you go).
For hilly routes, the iconic trams and funiculars save your legs, but walking is totally doable too, (on my first trip I hardly used any public transport!), just wear proper shoes and prepare for cobbles and steep streets!
Is Lisbon Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Short answer: yes, Lisbon is widely considered one of the safest capital cities in Europe for solo female travellers.
But that, of course, doesn’t mean it’s perfect.
Like in any city, anywhere in the world, it’s about knowing what to expect and being prepared so you can relax and enjoy yourself confidently.
So for a full deep-dive into crime stats, local culture, attitudes towards women, avoiding tourist scams, and the neighbourhoods in Lisbon to avoid, check out my complete guide to: Is Lisbon Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
It was written by a solo female traveller, for solo female travellers!
Where to Stay in Lisbon as a Solo Traveller
If you’re travelling to Lisbon alone, choosing the right neighbourhood will make a huge difference to how safe, connected and relaxed you feel.
Personally, I always recommend staying central, which means being close to public transport, top Lisbon tourist attractions, and cafes and restaurants.
Here are the best areas in Lisbon for solo travellers:
- Baixa-Chiado: It’s flat (rare for Lisbon!), safe and ideal for first-timers.
- Principe Real: Leafy and stylish, with lots of independent shops and cafes, and a quieter feel than nearby Bairro Alto.
- Alfama: If you love charm and don’t mind hills, Alfama is a beautiful place to stay. But just keep in mind it can be quieter at night.
- Cais do Sodre: Great for nightlife, river views and walking distance to both Time Out Market and the waterfront.
Top Lisbon accommodation recommendations for solo travellers:
- The Independente Hostel & Suites (Bairro Alto): A sociable hostel with great private room options too.
- My Story Hotel Rossio (Baixa): Right in the heart of Lisbon, with cute rooms and walkable to major sights.
- Hotel da Baixa (Baixa): A chic boutique hotel that feels very safe and comfortable, it’s in a great central location, with super friendly staff.
- Torel Palace Lisbon (Principe Real): Okay, so this one is definitely more of a splurge, but the views and atmosphere are unbeatable!
Final Thoughts: Travelling Solo in Lisbon
So, should you visit Lisbon alone? Absolutely!
Lisbon is one of those rare capital cities that’s vibrant, social and alive, but also calm, usually not overwhelming and very easy to explore alone.
And whether you’re sipping vinho verde by the river, catching the iconic Tram 28 through the hills, or just taking yourself on a slow morning walk through Alfama, there’s always something beautiful to experience in Lisbon.
Plus, you don’t need to pack your days with constant plans, either. Lisbon rewards slower travel in a way that most capitals don’t.
Lisbon is also a city that just works for solo travellers: it’s walkable, beautiful, safe, friendly and there’s always somewhere new to explore around the next corner!
So whether you’re visiting Lisbon for a few days or a longer city break, I hope this guide has helped you feel confident, inspired and totally ready to experience the best things to do alone in Lisbon!
Have you visited Lisbon solo before, or are you planning your first trip? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear what you’re most excited for!
Read More About Travel in Portugal:
- How to Spend 3 Days in Porto: Your Perfect Porto Itinerary
- The 7 Best Day Trips From Porto (No Car Needed!)
- 17 Best Things To Do Alone in Lisbon For Solo Travellers
- 11 Best Day Trips from Lisbon You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
- Is Lisbon Safe For Solo Female Travellers? A Realistic Guide
