Unfortunately, no. People using wheelchairs and strollers will have a difficult time on LisbonтАЩs steep, narrow, cobblestone pathways. A taxi will be the best way to get around the city and is fortunately not too expensive. Call ahead to all restaurants, museums, churches, and historical sites before going to ensure you will be able to visit to its full extent.
What is Lisbon's culinary scene like?
As a sea-faring people, the Portuguese have incorporated foreign spices and tastes into their local cuisine over hundreds of years. Expect to have plenty of seafood options, like flaked cod and grilled sardines. If fish isnтАЩt your thing, Bifana (pork sandwiches) are also excellent.
For dessert, make sure you have past├йis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) from the Belem district paired with local wine.
Is Lisbon hilly?
Yes, Lisbon has many hills and steep walks. Comfortable shoes are a must. Public transit can help you get where you need if it is too strenuous, so hop on one of the many bright yellow trams.
Is it safe to travel around Lisbon?
Lisbon is generally safe with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. Of course, take all your standard precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings on you.
Can I use my Spanish in Portugal?
In short, yes. Spanish and Portuguese have many similarities and you will find yourself being able to understand some Portuguese without having ever studied it. A lot of Portuguese people, especially in Lagos and Lisbon, will speak English and Spanish.
Are there direct trains between Lagos and Lisbon?
No. Anyone traveling between Lagos and Lisbon by train will have to switch trains at Albufeira - Ferreiras. The journey takes between 4-6 hours if there is no delay.
How is the public transportation system in Lisbon?
Lisbon's public transportation system is efficient and extensive. It has buses, trams, metro, and trains, providing easy access to the city's attractions and surrounding areas.
What souvenirs should I buy in Lisbon?
Popular souvenirs from Lisbon include traditional Portuguese ceramics, handmade tiles (called azulejos), and products made from cork. Gourmet foods like past├йis de nata, local wines (like Port), and cheeses are another great choice. Be sure to double-check your luggage and customs rules before bringing food and drink through the airport!
YouтАЩve enjoyed your time in Lagos and the Algarve coast, but now youтАЩre ready to see Lisbon- the City of Light. A car trip from Lagos to Lisbon stretches approximately 185 miles (300 km) and is the perfect opportunity to sample all Portugal has to offer. It has a blend of coastal vistas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, charming towns, vineyards as far as the eye can see, and historic landmarks from the last 2000 years.
Driving from Lagos to Lisbon is the perfect time to venture off the main highways to discover hidden gems along the Atlantic coastline. Embrace the distance and consider routes that pass through charming Iberian towns like Sagres and Palmela. Scenic viewpoints overlooking the sea will literally bring you to the edge of the world as you remember PortugalтАЩs seafaring prowess of centuries past.
Daytrip's private car service offers the most comfortable and convenient travel experience. Your professional driver will get you door-to-door while sharing their favorite places to visit, foods to try, and insights into daily life in Portugal. Unlike a bus or taxi, you can even stop to sightsee along the way!
If you didnтАЩt make it while you were in Lagos, visit the Ponta da Piedade for amazing views of the open Atlantic from atop rugged sea cliffs. Stop by Bacalh├┤a Winery, one of the finest in Portugal, to sip award-winning wine while admiring their eclectic art collection. And, you canтАЩt miss (literallyтАФitтАЩs huge) Christ the King, just across the river from Lisbon, for fantastic views of PortugalтАЩs capital.
As you enter Lisbon, your driver will expertly navigate the winding streets to bring you to the doorstep of your accommodation and offload your luggage. You'll arrive in Lisbon after an unforgettable ride without having lifted a finger!
About Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital and largest city of Portugal, is the furthest-west capital in Europe. It also stands as one of Europe's most ancient urban centers. Its origins have been traced back to pre-Celtic tribes preceding the arrival of the Phoenicians. As it transitioned from a remote outpost on the fringes of the Iberian peninsula, Lisbon became the epicenter of Portuguese exploration and trade during the 15th century, ushering in unprecedented prosperity for the city.
However, a catastrophic earthquake in 1755 razed much of the city to the ground, prompting Prime Minister Sebasti├гo Jos├й de Carvalho e Melo to redesign the city's core. He developed Lisbon into an open rectangular layout featuring two main squares. These squares delineate Lisbon's primary zones: the bustling commercial hub full of cafes, theaters, and eateries, and the port, boasting a majestic triumphal arch to greet ships returning from the New World, Europe, and Asia.
Spanning a series of seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon is a sprawling tapestry of distinct neighborhoods, each exuding its own individual charm. From the coastal allure of Belem, crowned by the iconic Torre de Belem tower, to the resilient Moorish enclave of Mouraria, spared by the earthquake of 1755. The city is a mosaic of unique quarters. Dominating the skyline, S├гo Jorge Castle (St. George Castle) looks over Alfama, while across the city, the Monastery of Jer├│nimos stands as a testament to Lisbon's enduring heritage.
Getting around PortugalтАЩs many hilly neighborhoods may appear difficult, but Lisbon's iconic yellow trams help you do so with ease. Notably, Tram 28 winds through historic enclaves like Gra├зa and Alfama. Its route offers a captivating journey through Lisbon's labyrinthine streets. Lisbon is blessed with about 290 days of sunshine annually. Its temperate climate means the weather seldom dips below 50┬░F (15┬░C) or surpasses 80┬░F (28┬░C), making it an ideal vacation spot all year round. LisbonтАЩs sunny conditions are great for basking in its expansive squares or meandering through its narrow, cobblestone alleys. This agreeable climate, coupled with the city's architectural grandeur and storied past, accounts for the universally warm demeanor of Lisboetas. Renowned as one of the world's happiest and most welcoming cities, engaging with locals promises delightful encounters, whether you're seeking directions or looking for the best place to indulge in Lisbon's famed pastel de nata, custard-filled pastries that have become synonymous with the city's culinary identity.
From Lagos to Lisbon: travel tips
Follow these travel tips and your journey from Lagos to Lisbon will be a rewarding and memorable adventure, filled with captivating discoveries and unforgettable experiences. So buckle up, hit the road, and prepare to be enchanted by the allure of Portugal's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
Enjoy the convenience of a private driver
Opt for a private driver with Daytrip for flexibility and convenience. This service lets you explore everywhere between Lagos and Lisbon on your own schedule. Your driver will know the mountainous roads very well and speak English, Portuguese, and most likely also some Spanish.
### Stop for sightseeing
Portugal is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and delicious food and wine. When you ride with Daytrip, you can easily experience every facet, from the amazing views of the Atlantic at Ponta da Piedade, the Moorish architecture of Silves Castle, or award-winning wines at Bacalh├┤a Winery.
### Pack the essentials
Ensure you have essential items for Lisbon, like sunscreen, a water bottle, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Lisbon has a sunny climate, countless stairs, and many steep streets. DonтАЩt get caught unprepared!
### Plan ahead for parking in Lisbon
In Lisbon, parking can be challenging and expensive, especially in the city center. If you're driving yourself, research your parking options in advance. Choose secure garages or park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts for hassle-free access to the city's attractions.
Of course, you don't have to worry about parking when you ride with Daytrip. Your professional driver will bring you right to your accommodation in Lisbon and help with your luggage. Once you get to Lisbon you don't need a car---just ride the famous yellow trams!
How to Get from Lagos to Lisbon
If you're trying to decide how to get from Lagos to Lisbon, you have plenty of options! Read on to see the pros and cons of each.
Lagos to Lisbon by private driver with Daytrip
Your best transportation option will be a private driver service. DaytripтАЩs luxury fleets and 24-hour customer service will put your mind at ease about traveling in a foreign country.
Leave the logistics to your driver, who knows the area well and speaks both English and Portuguese. YouтАЩll be picked up from your accommodation in Lagos, and taken on a beautiful journey up the Iberian peninsula. Add day trip stops to your journey, like the Bacalh├┤a Palace and Winery, or Italica, for the best experience of Portugal.
Once youтАЩve made it to the capital, you wonтАЩt worry about parking on LisbonтАЩs narrow, steep streets or hauling luggage across cobblestones. Your private driver will drop you and your luggage off right at your accommodation and you can get right to sightseeing.
### Lagos to Lisbon by bus
The bus is the cheapest way to get from Lagos to Lisbon, with tickets starting at just $10 per person. The trip takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes and makes a few stops along the way. Because tickets are cheap and Lisbon and Lagos are popular destinations, the buses can get very crowded and sell out, especially in the summer. There are also limits on the amount of luggage you can bring.
### Lagos to Lisbon by train
The train is another affordable way to get from Lagos to Lisbon, but a bit slower and less convenient than the bus since you need to change trains in Tunes. Tickets average $20-30 per person and the trip takes about four hours. Like with the bus, the trains can sell out, especially in the summer.
### Flights from Lagos to Lisbon
Tap Air Portugal has several nonstop flights a day from Lagos to Lisbon starting at тВм100. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before your flight. Add in getting to and from the airport and flying is slower and more expensive than just taking a private car. If you do fly, book tickets from the right Lagos! There's also a Lagos in Nigeria.
### Lagos to Lisbon by rental car
Traveling from Lagos to Lisbon by car is a popular choice if you plan on places in Portugal not accessible by public transportation. The drive typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 185 miles (300 km) via the A2 highway. Along the way, picturesque towns, scenic viewpoints, and historic landmarks dot the landscape, offering ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
The drawbacks come once you get to Lisbon. The streets are narrow and convoluted and parking is difficult. Once you get to Lisbon, you'll find you don't need a car to get around, so you won't be using your rental much. If you want complete control and freedom of a rental without the drawbacks, hire a private driver!
Things to do when you get to Lisbon
When you get to Lisbon, you'll immediately sense the vibrancy of this modern capital. It stands proudly alongside Europe's other major cities as a modern center of commerce and entertainment, while boasting a deeply rooted Iberian history. This blend of history and culture means you'll find plenty of things to do! Here are some of the best:
LisbonтАЩs Alfama District
Once you've settled into your accommodation, hop onto the Tram 28, for a quintessential Lisbon experience and delightful introduction to the city. This iconic tram route winds its way into the historic Alfama district, dropping you right off at the doors of the Estrela Basilica, a magnificent testament to Lisbon's architectural splendor.
From the basilica, dive into the labyrinthine streets of Alfama and imagine how much these streets have seen since the Moorish era. Here, you'll encounter a tapestry of historic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Lisbon Cathedral and remnants of the ancient city walls.
### LisbonтАЩs St. GeorgeтАЩs Castle
Towering above everything in Alfama is the formidable St. George's Castle, with origins tracing back over two millennia to Roman times. Bearing witness to the city's diverse cultural influences, from Berber conquerors to Reconquista knights, the castle's ramparts offer breathtaking panoramas of Lisbon's sprawling urban landscape below.
### Belem District in Lisbon
Descending from the heights of Alfama, venture down towards the shores of Belem, where the tranquil beaches beckon you to take a rest from all that walking. We did mention Lisbon has a lot of hills, didnтАЩt we?
Here, amidst the coastal allure, stands the iconic Torre de Belem. This monumental fortress has guarded the mouth of the Tagus River since the 16th century. As a mirror of LisbonтАЩs history, its architecture spans Roman, Moorish, Mudejar, and Gothic styles. It is a timeless symbol of Lisbon's maritime heritage on the high seas.
### Lisbon Aquarium
While in Belem, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Lisbon Aquarium. It's one of Europe's largest indoor aquariums and home to an impressive array of marine life, including the elusive ocean sunfish (mola mola).
### PortugalтАЩs National Tile Museum
The perfect reminder of your time in Portugal are some of its iconic tiles. Be sure to visit the National Tile Museum, a tribute to Portugal's mastery of ceramic artistry, showcasing exquisite azulejos and tracing the evolution of tile-making from Moorish origins.
### PortugalтАЩs Art Legacy
For art enthusiasts, the National Museum of Ancient Art offers a treasure trove of Renaissance paintings, Baroque decor, and ancient Roman artifacts, providing insight into Portugal's rich artistic heritage. Meanwhile, the Museu do Oriente serves as a poignant reminder of Portugal's imperial legacy, exhibiting artifacts from former colonies and trading posts.
### Take a day trip to Sintra
Venturing beyond the city limits, a day trip to Sintra is probably the most recommended activity by locals. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with opulent palaces, historic churches, and verdant landscapes. Explore the splendor of the Pena National Palace, marvel at the medieval Castle of the Moors, and delve into the Renaissance elegance of the Sintra National Palace. This will be an unforgettable excursion into Portugal's regal past.
When is the best time to visit Lisbon
Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, making it a year-round destination. The best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to October when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. During these seasons, temperatures are comfortable, ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 18-24┬░C), making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and outdoor spaces.
Spring brings blooming flowers and festivals, while autumn offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, visiting during these shoulder seasons allows travelers to take advantage of lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
тАЬAfter a lot of research for our trip to Spain/Portugal, I happened upon Daytrip. The company arranges drivers all over Europe тАФ not just Prague. The website is easy to use and the staff answers your questions within hours. Apprehensive at first because I never heard of them, i asked lots of questions and always got quick satisfactory answers. I booked two trips тАФ from Seville Spain to Lagos Portugal and then from Lagos to Lisbon. Both drivers showed up timely with nice cars and dropped us off at our destination as scheduled. The prices are reasonable and the private car relieves you of all stress related traveling. No need for buses or rental cars. Simple. Highly recommend.тАЭ
тАЬNeeded a connection from Lagos to Lisbon to catch a flight to Dubai. Day trip pick up was on time and arrived at Lisbon airport as planned. Driver was excellent and informative.тАЭ
тАЬWe took the daytrip service from Lagos to Lisbon in July 2019. The service was outstanding. We were a bit worried trying this for the first time, but it worked out extremely well. Daytrip sent us the driver name and car information a few days before the trip. Duarte, our driver was there on time and picked us up from the hotel. We had a nice stop at Silves castle en route. This was our first trip to Portugal and we had a great conversation with Duarte and received nice tips from him on what to do in Lisbon. It was a very comfortable drive and we reached Lisbon on time as planned. This service is a great option if you want to stop en route, visit sites or stretch your legs, and prefer door to door service.тАЭ
Tripadvisor рдпрд╛рддреНрд░реА Govind R рджреНрд╡рд╛рд░рд╛ рд╕рдореАрдХреНрд╖рд╛ рдХреА рдЧрдИ
тАЬThree of us booked a driver in June to take us from Lisbon to Lagos on the southern coast and a few days later, had another driver take us to Seville. We looked into renting a car, but it was too expensive to take it across the border into Spain.We also looked into buses or trains, but decided on the private driver with -door to door service. The price was very reasonable and emails were quickly returned and the details worked out smoothly.
We especially loved Carlos, our driver from Lisbon. We opted for a stop at a castle along the way and Carlos directed us to a wonderful spot for lunch.Prompt door to doo service at a reasonable price. Highly recommend.тАЭ
тАЬWe booked a private car to travel from Lisbon airport to our hotel in Lagos. The communication prior to the trip was excellent, emails that included a photo, license plate, and mobile # of the driver. We even had a vehicle upgrade!
We found Augusto right away at the airport and were on our way.
It may have been the easiest exit from an airport I've experienced!
The drive was fine, we stopped at a local cafe/rest stop.
I will definitely use DayTrip again and recommend to all my friends.тАЭ
Tripadvisor рдпрд╛рддреНрд░реА Christine G рджреНрд╡рд╛рд░рд╛ рд╕рдореАрдХреНрд╖рд╛ рдХреА рдЧрдИ
тАЬFantastic service and a truly viable option to car rental and so much more professional than Uber. I booked luxury car option (BMW 5 series estate) Lisbon to Lagos and regular option (VW MPV) Lagos to Faro. Both cars were spotlessly clean, drivers were on time and very courteous. I loved the email prior to pick up with car type, reg plate and picture and name of driver.
I will definitely use this service in the future.
Thank you so much Daytrip for providing this service.тАЭ
тАЬWe used DayTrip for three rides, Porto - Lisbon, Lisbon - Lagos, and Lagos - Lisbon. Each ride was a delight тАФ actually they were wonderful highlights of our trip to Portugal. All three drivers were highly professional, excellent and safe drivers. They were each on time and the cars were in perfect condition.
We have recommended DayTrip to many friends and acquaintances as a result of these trips.тАЭ
тАЬi want to reassure solo travelers, which i am, that transfers with mydaytrip.com are completely safe, reliable and pleasant. during the past two weeks, i reserved two transfers with the company, from lisbon to belmonte and from lagos to the lisbon airport, and both drivers were polite, friendly, on-time and totally great people.
when looking for such a company, i couldn't find many reviews on this company for transfers in portugal, so it was important for me to notify everyone that this company should be an option, if trains and buses just won't reach the areas in which you are traveling. they will give you quotes, and then you can decide.
one thing that i do want to say, however. a few days before the transfer, you are provided with the driver's cell and first name and last initial. being a single woman, 65 yrs young, i wanted to know the driver's full official name and then i provided the info to a friend, just in case, since i had never used this company before. i would do it again, even though i feel very comfortable, now. but, you must ask, because the company told me that they must first get permission from the driver to share the full name and when i explained why, they did it. so, if you want more info, ask.
also, both cars were in beautiful shape and one even had wi-fi :O))
i will return to portugal early in 2019 and plan to reserve any transfers that i need, with this company. thank you so much.тАЭ
Tripadvisor рдпрд╛рддреНрд░реА Pam L рджреНрд╡рд╛рд░рд╛ рд╕рдореАрдХреНрд╖рд╛ рдХреА рдЧрдИ
тАЬWe found Daytrip after researching car services to take us from Lisbon to Lagos. Vincent was prompt, found our back alley hotel without any direction after many cab drivers could not, gave us nice facts about Portugal along the way and stop for bathroom breaks whenever needed. The car was roomy, clean and had water and candy. It felt like a limo service. Would 100% travel like this around Europe again!тАЭ
тАЬWe had planned on taking a train from Lisbon to Lagos, where we had rented a condo for two weeks. Due to unforeseen events, we were unable to take the train. I contacted Daytrip, and they solved our problem. Our driver, Daniel, was a very competent driver, considerate and helpful. We very much appreciated having the option of door to door service. Thank you again Daytrip!тАЭ
