10 Things to Do in Lisbon in the summer

Are you heading to Lisbon this summer? I’m so jealous! It’s a lovely time of year when people take to the streets to celebrate the good weather and the city’s culture.

Although the summer heat can get quite intense, there’s always a way to beat it by making the most of everything there is to see and do in Lisbon. I’ve put together a list of my favourite things to do so you can enjoy them too.

On those sunny Lisbon summer afternoons, I promise you there’s no better plan than a trip along the Tagus. Once you’re on board and start gliding along the river, watching the glow of the sunset paint the banks, you’ll understand why I say so. The views are much better in daylight, which is why this experience is so much more enjoyable in the summer months. What’s more, the gentle breeze on deck is a welcome relief on the hottest days.

The boat will take a route so you can see the Cristo Rei, the Jerónimos Monastery or the Belém Tower, one of the most famous attractions in the Belém district. What’s more, to make this tour even more refreshing, it usually includes a drink on board. Make the most of it and enjoy a glass of Portuguese wine!

Bear in mind that as it’s summer, the sun can be dangerous, so don’t forget to bring sun cream and even a sun visor. If you book the sunset tour, check the temperatures and bring a light jacket, just in case.

Who wouldn’t want a carnival all year round? The good news is that if you visit Lisbon in summer, you can celebrate for practically the whole of June. The good weather, the music, the colours… The city turns into one big party during the feasts of St Peter, St John and St Anthony. The celebrations for these three patron saints come together in the so-called Festas dos Santos Populares. You won’t want to miss them!

The most important day – or rather, night – is 12 June. That’s when the grand parade takes place along Avenida da Liberdade, one of Lisbon’s largest and most central avenues. Get ready to enjoy dancing, bonfires, street parties and barbecues until the early hours of the morning.

Stroll through Lisbon and discover its colour

Lisbon’s different neighbourhoods are decked out in an attempt to win the annual competition, so don’t miss the chance to wander through them all and pick your favourite. Each area also has its own music groups and dance troupes, which can also win a coveted prize.

The traditions of the Festas

If there’s one dish you absolutely must try during the Lisbon summer, it’s grilled sardines, which, according to legend, Saint Anthony used to feed an Italian village. This patron saint isn’t just the city’s patron, but also that of newlyweds, which is why you’ll see many couples out on the streets on 12 June, as it’s a day when many weddings take place at the same time.

If you want to gain a deeper understanding of Portuguese culture and the meaning behind all these celebrations, this season is one of the best times to take a guided tour of the capital. You’re sure to enjoy the festivities much more if you understand your surroundings better.

Summer in Lisbon is lived out on the streets, there’s no doubt about it, which is why the BaixAnima festival takes place over the three months of the season. Acrobatics, circus acts, sport, dance, music, theatre… In short, the city’s neighbourhoods are filled with art thanks to this festival. The best part is that all these shows, which take place at weekends from July to September, are free.

The city centre of the Portuguese capital, particularly the Baixa district near Rua Augusta, is where the BaixAnima Street Festival is held. Although you can find all sorts of performances, my favourites are the circus acts.

I don’t know about you, but to me, summer smells of the beach, so if you’re in Lisbon, you simply must escape to Cascais. It’s very easy to do so with an organised day trip from Lisbon, something I recommend so you can focus solely on enjoying a relaxing visit to this town’s Atlantic beaches. Just 40 minutes from the capital, Cascais forms part of the famous Portuguese Riviera, where white sandy beaches and turquoise waters create the perfect summer setting.

Years ago, this town was exclusively for the wealthy, and glamour mingled with the waves of the Atlantic. Nowadays, it’s a destination open to everyone with affordable prices. That said, if you’re planning to stay overnight, book a hotel in advance as they fill up in summer.

As well as taking a dip when the heat becomes unbearable in the town, it’s also very common to see surfers or simply people strolling along the seafront promenade. My advice is to spend at least a day there and discover one of my favourite beaches (and that of many Portuguese people): Praia da Rainha. It’s close to the train station and is beautiful, perfect for relaxing.

If you haven’t been to Lisbon yet, you might be surprised by the size of the night-time bars. Why do I say that? Because they’re actually quite small. That means Lisbon’s nightlife mostly takes place on terraces and in the streets. In winter in Lisbon, this can be a bit tricky due to the cold, but in summer it’s a real treat. In the evenings, the temperatures drop just enough so you don’t swelter but can still enjoy the atmosphere.

As well as the nightclubs in Cais do Sodré, the best bars are in Bairro Alto and Alfama, where you can also catch live fado concerts in the open air. That said, you can also find venues playing more mainstream music. Just don’t turn up too early, because in summer you’ll have to wait until almost midnight for the locals to come out and party.

Temperatures in Lisbon during the summer months can reach 35°C, and in the middle of the day, climbing the city’s many hills might not seem like a good idea. When the heat prevents you from exploring the city on foot, have you considered booking a Lisbon sightseeing bus? They’re air-conditioned and a great way to get from one place to another in comfort.

Although the heat in Lisbon isn’t always stifling, there may be times when it prevents you from fully enjoying your trip, especially if you have to walk in the sun. To avoid this, I recommend getting tickets for a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. From the upper deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lisbon and, as the bus is moving, you’ll feel the breeze on your face and won’t feel the heat quite so much.

The best thing, without a doubt, is that these buses connect the city’s most important landmarks, such as Praça do Comércio, the Belém Tower or Eduardo VII Park. Because although everything is more or less close by in Lisbon, its hills can be a challenge on the hottest days – you’ll see.

From June to September, Lisbon is filled with music and the city hosts the best festivals. You’ve no doubt heard of Rock in Rio, which takes place in early summer, but there are many others that find the Portuguese capital offers the perfect climate and atmosphere to bring music and art out onto the streets, such as:

. NOS’ Alive: held during the first few days of July, its line-up brings together major bands and world-renowned singers. A few years ago, The Weeknd performed there, as have Metallica and Ryan Adams.
. Super Bock Super Rock: are you more of a rock fan? This festival takes place every July in the Parque das Nações, featuring big-name rock acts such as The Strokes and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It has a very cosmopolitan and urban feel, so expect to see plenty of new acts and discover different bands.
. Jazz Festivals: in the plural because, yes, in summer Lisbon is all about jazz. First up is the Cool Jazz Fest in July, which takes place in Lisbon’s most beautiful parks and also features blues and funk concerts. Later, in August, Jazz em Agosto takes centre stage, with a much more summery and Portuguese vibe.
. Sumol Summer Fest: in late June and early July, over roughly two days, the Ericeira Campsite, near Cascais, puts the spotlight on surfing and DJs spinning tunes all day long.
. Festas do Mar de Cascais: these go beyond music. Although concerts by local artists certainly play a leading role, the town also fills with street markets, crafts and fireworks to light up the summer nights in August.

There’s something about summer that makes a picnic the best plan for lunch (or dinner). Lisbon also has plenty of parks and green spaces, making it a favourite activity for both locals and visitors. My advice isn’t just to head somewhere like Cerca da Graça, but to take the opportunity to buy fresh, traditional, high-quality food at one of Lisbon’s markets.

One of my favourite parks is Eduardo VII; it’s the largest in the city and has plenty of space, including a picnic area. Lots of people go there at midday to enjoy the coolness of nature. If you’re travelling to Lisbon with children, you might want to visit Jardim da Estrela, which has a children’s playground.

What food should you buy? If you don’t mind getting up early to buy freshly baked bread and fresh fruit, head to the Mercado da Ribeira. And to try the delicious and famous Portuguese tinned goods, it’s best to go to the Conserveira de Lisboa. You’ll see how you’ll leave with the perfect menu for the day.

One of my favourite things to do in Lisbon when summer arrives is to listen to music outdoors, something that’s very easy to do with the series of concerts at Jardim Da Estrela. Mainly during July and August, shows are organised at the iron bandstand in this park.

Also known as Guerra Junqueiro, this garden is located in the centre of Lisbon, acting as its great green lung. If you’re attending one of its summer concerts (tickets go on sale on its website as the dates approach), I recommend arriving early so you have time to stroll around. Why? Because it’s home to many exotic plants, as well as peacocks and swans. It also features numerous sculptures, making it almost like a museum set amidst nature.

If you want to return from Lisbon with a nice tan, make the most of the sun that shines on its viewpoints in summer. As well as incredible views, many of these spots have terraces for sunbathing. In fact, some have sun loungers you can hire, such as at the Portas do Sol lounge.

I won’t lie to you, going at midday can be stifling, as the sun beats down directly. My advice is to make the most of the afternoon hours to soak up some rays as the sun sets; at the same time, you’re sure to take some incredible photos from the heights, with the whole of Lisbon at your feet and enviable light.

If you don’t fancy climbing Lisbon’s hills, you can always sunbathe on the banks of the Tagus. In particular, I recommend the Ribeira Das Naus area, which turns into a landscaped beach during the summer months.

With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C, very little chance of rain and up to 15 hours of daylight a day, Lisbon is the perfect destination to enjoy the Mediterranean summer. That said, the climate can be rather stifling and very dry, especially in August. However, the city’s lively atmosphere during these months and all the outdoor activities on offer make it well worth a visit.

If you’re heading to Lisbon during these months, bear in mind that the heat will be noticeable, though you’ll understand better than ever why it’s considered ‘the city of light’. Lisboners and tourists alike take to the streets during the summer months, especially in the evenings when temperatures drop and become more pleasant.

One thing you certainly won’t need is an umbrella, as the chances of rain are minimal. Otherwise, remember that temperatures can reach up to 35°C, so pack summer clothes such as skirts, shorts and sleeveless tops. Of course, don’t forget sun cream, sunglasses and a cap or hat.

Although the weather is quite hot, it cools down a bit in the evenings. You won’t need warm clothes, but do pack a light jacket to put on after sunset.