Top 10 things to do in Lisbon

Portugal's capital, Lisbon, is famed for its grand architecture, colourful streets and yellow trams that run through the city centre - and it's a perfect spot for a city break.

This coastal city is packed with history and culture with a vibrant nightlight that's sure to keep everyone busy. Its warm climate and spectacular mountainous location draws visitors in year after year, making it one of the most popular European capitals.

So when you're visiting such a lively city, how should you know the best places to visit? We've teamed up with Turismo de Lisboa to bring you the top ten places to visit in Portugal's capital city.

See also: Portugal off the beaten track

1. Indulge in local, gourmet canapes
Michelin-starred José Avillez is Portugal's answer to our very own Heston Blumenthal and his latest opening, Mini Bar, boasts a menu of experimental but affordable canapes than will set you back less than €5 per dish.

2. Take a tour of Lisbon's coolest market
The Mercado de Campo de Ourique has recently undergone a renovation to smarten up the 80-year-old market. Visitors will find groceries stalls, gourmet food stands, traditional Portuguese wines and fresh juice counters throughout.

3. Party on the 'Pink Street'
Cais do Sodré was once the city's seediest neighbourhood but these days Rua Nova do Carvalho is the city's most popular street for nightlife. The pedestrian-only zone is painted a bright pink colour and is home to live music venues, burlesque clubs and tapas bars.

4. Snap up the perfect souvenir
Searching through hoards of tat can be a nightmare when you're trying to find the perfect holiday gifts to bring back for friends and family. In Lisbon this isn't an issue though, forget the classic Portuguese roosters and head to Terreiro do Paço, the ideal place to pick up a special gift to take home with you. The much-loved shop offers colourful tiles, handmade jewellery and much more.

5. Spend an evening at the museum
The Museu do Oriente used to be a salt cod warehouse until it was repurposed and renovated a few years ago. You'd never know now though and each Friday the history of Portugal during the Age of Discovery is brought to life.

6. Have a look at one of Europe's best fashion collections
MUDE is housed in a former bank and is home to iconic works from the worlds of fashion and design. This is where Phillipe Starck and Charles Eames come together with Jean Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood.

7. Go to Bairro Alto for a vintage experience
Bairro Alto used to be one of the least desirable areas in the city but these days the backstreets of the neighbourhood are fit to bursting with quirky shops, unusual bars and fashionable hairdressers. Vintage clothing is also popular in this area so make your way over with an open mind and wallet, ready to collect some retro bargains.

8. Enjoy the local street art
Unlike many other European cities the government in Lisbon positively encourages and funds street art in the city. Galeria de Arte Urbana in Barrio Alto is the 'official' exhibition wall but you'll be able to spot other works of art all through the city.

9. See Picasso, Dalí and Warhol for free
Museu Colecção Berardo is free to visit and is home to a large collection of works from the European and American 20th and 21st century art movements. Surrealism, pop art and minimalism can all be found here, amongst others.

10. Dine alfresco at a Lisbon hotspot
U Chiado Restaurant has everything from snacks to sushi at all hours of the day. Hungry tourists can enjoy outdoor brunches with exotic cocktails or a cosy meal indoors when the temperature drops. The restaurant also has an inviting terrace area with heaters and blankets for those that feel the cold.

Related articles:

Where to find the best beaches​ in Portugal

Lisbon city breaks: Ten shops you need to see to believe

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