Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is brimming with things for visitors to see and experience. Many of these things are free including parks, museums, and churches. It’s easy to close your wallet and hit the streets of Lisbon!
Lace up your walking shoes if you want to save some cash and walk to see several attractions around the city. Taxis and public transportation costs can quickly add up and walking lets you experience more of this historic destination.
Since you will be spending a lot of time walking, drop your bags at a Bounce luggage storage facility in Lisbon so you do not feel like a pack mule by the end of the day.
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Parque dos Poetas (Poet’s Park)
Come take a stroll through a lush, landscaped park and breathe in the fresh Portuguese air. Poet’s Park, as it is known to those who speak English, is filled with beautiful gardens, a refreshing lake, and a unique maze.
There are several intriguing sculptures of fantastic historical poets including Miguel Torga, Luís de Camões, Fernando Pessoa, and Gil Vicente. Each sculpture has an information plaque about the poet.
Visit Parque dos Poetas right before dark and then stay to see the park beautifully illuminated. Check out the schedule for the amphitheater for upcoming concerts.
Cemiterio dos Prazeres (Prazeres Cemetery)
While visiting a cemetery may not sound like a great time when on vacation in Lisbon, the Cemiterio dos Prazeres is the biggest cemetery in the city. Located in the Campo de Ourique neighborhood, the Prazeres Cemetery was started in 1833.
It originally opened because of a cholera outbreak that created a need for more cemeteries. It is the final resting place of many of Portugal’s more prominent people such as politicians, writers, and artists.
There are tours available that cost money to join, but you can grab a free map of the cemetery at the front office and head out on your own to explore.
Igreja de São Roque (Church of Sao Roque)
Founded by the Jesuits at the end of the 16th century, this gilded church is truly a work of art and should not be missed. It is one of the first known Jesuit churches in the world. Some of the most incredible Jesuit art is in this church and the attached museum.
While it does cost to walk through the museum, you can enter the church and explore the areas open to the public. You can also take a stroll around the outside of the church and admire the white-washed façade.
Bring your camera when you visit the Igreja de São Roque for great photos to share with those back home and on social media.
Feira da Ladra (Thieves Market)
No matter what country you are in, who would not love to spend time exploring a flea market? Formerly known as the Mercado de Santa Clara, the Feira da Ladra literally translates to the Thieves Market and is the biggest flea market in the city.
While it does not cost anything to visit this eclectic flea market, if you decide to do some shopping for souvenirs you will have to part with some of your hard-earned cash. You can easily spend hours wandering through the different booths.
Find a little bit of everything at the Thieves Market including terracotta wine jars, hand-painted tiles, coins, and other knick-knacks. You will be on sensory overload as you stroll along with the natives and other tourists.
Dinis Wall
The last known remnant of King Dinis and medieval times in Lisbon, the D. Dinis Wall was built during the 13th century. This 98-foot wall is a fabulous monument and is a great place to visit while in the city.
Located in the Interpretation Center of the Bank of Portugal Museum, it is free to view the mesmerizing wall, which is in the basement. While here, explore the rest of the museum for an afternoon of learning.
Jardim da Estrela (Estrela Garden)
One of the most beautiful public parks in Lisbon, the Jardim da Estrela is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The landscaping of the park is amazing and you can spend an afternoon strolling through the pathways and lazing in the shade.
Sit and watch the ducks and geese as they swim in the lake. Pack a snack or a full picnic and spend the afternoon people-watching in the fresh air. Some weekends, craft fairs are held in the park where you can find cute souvenirs.
Stop by the wrought-iron bandstand from the 19th century that is still used today as a concert stage for wonderful concerts in the park. Drop by the open-air library for a book to read while taking a break in the shade.
Praia de Carvavelos (Carcavelos Beach)
Located just outside of Lisbon, the golden sands of Praia de Carvavelos is a wonderful place to relax in the sunshine. The beach beckons you and is only about a 20-minute train ride from Lisbon.
Bring your sunscreen, beach towel, and bathing suit then stretch out and enjoy the day. Watch the surfers trying to tackle the waves. There are several surfing competitions held at the Praia de Carvavelos each year.
It is free to enjoy the beach, but you will have to pay a fare for the train and of course, any refreshments you get throughout the day.
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Palácio Foz (Foz Palace)
Come visit the Palácio Foz and catch free concerts and music recitals two or three times each month. While at the palace you can enjoy learning more about this 18th century iconic building. Many of these concerts and recitals are held in the illustrious Mirror Room.
Be in awe of musical masters on the piano, harp, and even the bassoon. Listen to enchanting choral concerts or even a jazz concert. Like the Palácio Foz on Facebook for updates on these free performances. Children under six years old are not permitted in the performances.
Lisbon is a thriving metropolis filled with so many things to see and do. While many activities do cost money, there are several that you can do while here that are free. Be sure to check out a few of these top 8 free things to do in Lisbon next time you are in the city.
Resources:
http://parquedospoetas.cm-oeiras.pt/
http://www.museu-saoroque.com/pt/igreja-de-sao-roque.aspx
https://informacoeseservicos.lisboa.pt/contactos/diretorio-da-cidade/feira-da-ladra
https://www.museudodinheiro.pt/en/heritage/2/king-dinis-wall
https://visitar.lisboa.pt/explorar/locais-de-interesse/jardim-guerra-junqueiro
https://www.visitportugal.com/en/node/141607
https://www.facebook.com/PalacioFozOficial/
