Planning a honeymoon in Lisbon, or a romantic city break?

Well, you’ve picked the right destination. Lisbon is a warm and friendly city, with charming gardens, cosy taverns, and colourful streets.

Plus, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Lisbon, from spending a night at the theatre to enjoying a cruise along the river.

In this Lisbon for couples guide, I share my top recommendations for where to stay, things to do, and more.

So, let’s dive right in!

Lisbon for couples: what you need to know

Lisbon might not be as popular as other European cities, but it can get very busy and crowded in the summer months. Plus, the high temperatures can make it difficult to enjoy the best Lisbon has to offer.

For these reasons, I highly recommend visiting Lisbon in January.

The city is much quieter in winter, and the weather is quite mild. This means you can have a more romantic holiday in Lisbon.

You’re more likely to get the best tables at restaurants, and you can stroll through the quaint streets without having to weave your way through crowds.

For a truly romantic experience, you’ll want to stay in a central neighbourhood. The Bairro Alto and Chiado neighbourhoods are teeming with nice little bars and restaurants.

Best Lisbon hotel for couples

My husband and I stayed at Lisboa Pessoa Hotel. This four-stay hotel is located on a quiet street in the Chiado neighbourhood.

It has bright, cosy rooms, and a terrace restaurant with stunning views of Lisbon. There’s also a lovely spa with an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.

The hotel is located next to attractions like the Carmo Convent and the Santa Justa Lift.

And, the train station is just a 10-minute walk away. This is super convenient if you want to take a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra.

Romantic things to do in Lisbon

Whether you’re spending your honeymoon in Lisbon, or just planning a romantic getaway, there are plenty of things to do in the city with your partner.

Here are my top recommendations.

1. Go on a cruise along the Tagus River

Encompassing over 1,007 kilometres of water, the Tagus is the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula.

Taking a river cruise in Lisbon can be a wonderful way to spend the day, especially if you want to get away from the crowds. Some boat tours include food and drinks (and perhaps a glass of champagne!).

You’ll also get to marvel at some of Lisbon’s landmarks from below, including Belem Tower, the 25 de April Bridge, and the Cristo Rei statue.

2. Explore Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s old quarter and bohemian district. Its cobblestone streets are lined with charming cafés and artisanal shops.

While you’re here, make sure to have some Bacalhau à Brás. This is a classic Portuguese dish that’s believed to have originated in the Bairro Alto neighborhood of Lisbon.

It’s made from shredded bacalhau (salted cod), onions, and finely fried potatoes, all bound together with eggs and garnished with parsley and olives.

If you’re not a fan of fish, you can try some local cheeses and chorizo instead. Antonio Petiscos in Bairro Alto serves a variety of Portuguese dishes to share.

The restaurant is quite small, and it’s decorated with vintage items and antiques. Plus, it has a very intimate ambiance, making it ideal for a date night!

3. Have a picnic at Jardim Botânico Tropical

Jardim Botânico Tropical is a green haven in the heart of Lisbon. It has a rich variety of plant species from tropical and subtropical regions.

It’s situated in the Belém district, near famous landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belem Tower.

And, it’s a stone throw’s away from the popular Pastéis de Belém bakery, which makes some of the most delicious pasteis de nata in the city.

On a nice warm day, you can enjoy the lush greenery of the botanical garden, along with the finest custard tarts you’ll ever eat! 

4. Spend an evening at the theatre

If you both love theatre, you can spend an evening at the prestigious Teatro São Carlos.

This historic opera house is located in the Chiado district and was inaugurated in 1793. It’s renowned for its elegant neoclassical architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Modeled after the famous La Scala in Milan, Teatro São Carlos boasts a grand interior with gilded balconies, plush red seating, and a beautifully painted ceiling.

The main auditorium plays host to operas, ballets, and classical music performances, featuring some of the world’s most celebrated artists.

The theatre also promotes Portuguese culture, often showcasing works by local composers and artists.

5. Watch the sunset from the mirador

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is one of Lisbon’s most beloved viewpoints, offering stunning panoramic views over the city.

Located in the Bairro Alto district, this terraced garden is a popular spot for locals to gather and take in the scenery, especially at sunset.

The view from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara spans across the historic neighbourhoods of Lisbon, with the iconic São Jorge Castle perched on a hill in the distance, and the River Tagus shimmering beyond.

The garden itself is a lovely place for a stroll. There are also a couple of kiosks, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or a coffee while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

On some evenings, you’ll find buskers in the garden, serenading the crowd.

6. Stroll through Alfama

Wandering through the narrow, winding streets of Alfama is like stepping back in time to old Lisbon.

This historic district, with its labyrinthine alleys and traditional tiled houses, is perfect for a romantic stroll. Along the way, you’ll come across a few old churches and little squares.

The air in Alfama is often filled with the melancholic sounds of Fado music drifting from small taverns, adding to the romantic ambiance.

As you walk, take your time to appreciate the little details — the azulejos adorning the buildings, the laundry hanging from balconies, and the windows lined with flowers.

While you’re here, you might want to pop into the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) and visit Castelo de São Jorge.

7. Travel on Tram 28

A ride on Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28 is not just a journey: it’s a romantic adventure through the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

This vintage yellow tram winds its way through some of Lisbon’s oldest and most charming districts, including Graça, Alfama, and Baixa.

As you sit on the wooden benches, you’ll feel the tram rattle and sway along the narrow, hilly streets. You’ll get glimpses of historic landmarks, colorful buildings, and everyday life in Lisbon.

The route takes you past several landmarks, including the Sé Cathedral and São Jorge Castle.

Note that Tram 28 is a popular attraction, and if you’re visiting Lisbon in summer, it will likely be packed.

You might want to purchase your tram tickets in advance.

8. Ride the Santa Justa Lift

Riding the Santa Justa Lift is one of the most romantic things to do in Lisbon, and a very unique experience!

This elegant, neo-Gothic iron elevator, designed by an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, connects the lower streets of Baixa with the elevated Carmo Square.

As you ascend the lift, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the city’s rooftops, the Tagus River, and the distant hills. At the top, you can step out onto the viewing platform for more breathtaking vistas.

Frequently asked questions

So, we’ve looked at the most romantic things to do in Lisbon, and the best hotel for couples in the city.

But you might still have some questions about visiting Lisbon with your significant other. Well, let’s answer them!

Best Lisbon tours for couples

Want to surprise your partner? Here are some romantic experiences which I recommend booking in advance.