Lisbon is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, if not the sunniest. However, it does rain in Lisbon. While it’s rarer during the summer months, you can expect it in the Fall and winter months.
It usually rains 33% of the days from October through February, so you have to prepare for this and don’t let it hold you back from exploring Lisbon’s beauty. I have a list of indoor things to do in Lisbon.
I’ve been to the Oceanarium, tasted wine, and visited museums, and I recommend you do the same.
Just because it’s raining shouldn’t stop you from exploring Lisbon. Jump into an Uber or use public transport.
Best For Couples: Wine Tasting & Experience Tram 28
Best For Families: Visit Oceanarium
Best For Young Group: Wine Tasting & Fado Music
1. Wine Tasting
Portugal produces amazing wine, and the cool part is that it costs a fraction of what Italian and French wine costs and is just as complex.
You have the incredible regions of Douro and Alentejo in Evora that provide incredible wine year after year.
I’ve always been happy drinking wine, but I never really appreciated Portuguese Wine until recent years.
I recommend trying the wine bar By the Wine. It has a beautiful ceiling decorated with empty wine bottles and an incredibly educated staff about wine.
Their tapas plates are incredible, as are the local Portuguese dishes. You don’t have to reserve a table, but you can if you want to make sure there is one.
You can easily take an Uber to the door or take public transport to the other side of the street, close to Palacio Chiado, and walk there in one minute.
2. Visit a Fascinating Museum
Lisbon has many incredible museums, which are perfect to visit on a rainy day.
One I can recommend is the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian. They have a collection spanning over 6,000 years, from ancient Egyptian art to Rubens’ paintings.
Another museum is the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea do Chiado, located in the Chiado district, right in the city center.
Beyond museums, Lisbon has a thriving gallery scene. Check out my guide to 16 art galleries in Lisbon for contemporary and emerging Portuguese art.
This museum showcases a diverse collection of Portuguese contemporary art, so it depends on what type of museum interests you.
Lastly, on rainy days, you can visit the Art Deco Jewelry Museum, a hidden gem that showcases exquisite pieces from the glamorous Art Deco era.
The museum has a jewelry collection, beautiful designs, and precious stones.
Tip: With the Lisboa Card, you can visit many Lisbon museum attractions at a discounted or free price.
3. Listen to Fado Music
Fado is a type of sad music, but it can be experienced in a positive way, especially in Alfama.
I was positively surprised the other day when my partner played some Fado for me. It’s super vibing, even though the lyrics might be a bit sad.
There is nothing that beats a Fado show at a local restaurant in Lisbon, especially in Alfama.
But they’re not only in Alfama but in Bairro Alto as well.
I recommend trying Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto. It is an excellent choice because it is more informal.
4. Visit LxFactory
LxFactory, in Alcantara, is right beneath the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, and here, you can experience an old factory turned into a place with unique stores, restaurants, and a hipster vibe.
While it has some outdoor space, you can explore the restaurants and stores inside. Especially within the old factory, you get access to many unique boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes.
LxFactory is proof of Lisbon’s ability to seamlessly blend its industrial past with a contemporary, artistic present. This is a must-do indoor activity.
5. Do Some Shopping in a Mall
I love the shopping malls in Lisbon; they have such a nice vibe and interior to walk around in, and there is so much space. I especially like Amoreiras and the Colombo Shopping Center.
Both have a lot of restaurants where you can have a quick lunch, and Colombo has the best cinema, in my opinion.
When I lived in Amoreiras, I lived close to Amoreiras Shopping Mall, and we always went there for lunch or a quick dinner.
- Amoreiras Shopping Center: Located in the Amoreiras district. This is a new mall with a mix of high-end and popular brands.
- Colombo Shopping Centre: One of the largest shopping malls in Europe, Colombo has over 400 shops. It’s a mix of Portuguese brands, a cinema complex, and a lot of known restaurants.
- Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre: Situated near the Tagus River in Parque das Nações, this mall is known for its modern architecture. Vasco da Gama is truly unique when you’re inside, with bridges going across the ceiling.
- Almada Forum: Located across the river in Almada, you’ll find a mix of shops, restaurants, and a cinema. It’s a super spacious design and a wide variety of stores.
- Dolce Vita Tejo: This is on the edge of Lisbon, and it’s a large shopping and entertainment mall. It has a lot of shops, restaurants, and recreational activities. It’s a super family-friendly destination.
6. Jerónimos Monastery
Jeronimos Monastery is in the famous Belém district near Lisbon, and it’s an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Portugal’s rich maritime heritage.
Even though the Monastery has a beautiful garden outside you don’t want to miss, it still has a lot going on inside with tombs, a beautiful church, and much more.
The monastery houses the tombs of notable figures, including Vasco da Gama. The exploration theme is pervasive, with motifs of the discoveries that reshaped the world map.
The chapel is a serene space dedicated to St. Jerome, with beautiful stained glass and a calm atmosphere.
It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and exemplifies the harmonious blend of architecture and history.
It’s near the Tagus River, and the monastery is an excellent starting point for experiencing Belém Tower afterward, as it’s just nearby.
Tip: You can visit the Jeronimos Monastery for free with the Lisboa Card.
7. Eat at the Time Out Market
When you experience wet weather in Lisbon and you want a large variety of options to eat, the Time Out Market is my go-to.
Here, you can choose between 30+ restaurants, and they’re all incredible.
It’s a massive food hall where you can get every food corner from Asian to Portuguese to American to Italian.
My favorite is the burger at Ground Burger, it’s incredible. But the bifana sandwich at Henrique Sa Passoa is amazing as well.
You can top it all off with my favorite pastel de nata at Manteigaria, which also has a stand in the Time Out Market.
8. Experience Tram 28
Tram 28 is the most famous tram in Lisbon and maybe in the world, and now that you can’t walk around Lisbon, taking the tram is perfect.
Not only do you stay dry as you experience Lisbon, but you also have a lot of space in the tram, as most people stay inside due to the rainy weather.
The iconic yellow tram takes you on a beautiful journey through the narrow streets of historic neighborhoods such as Graça, Alfama, and Baixa.
The vintage tram drives past architectural gems like Sé Cathedral and São Jorge Castle.
Tip: During high season, as everybody wants to take the tram, I recommend getting on at Martim Monis.
9. Explore Ajuda Palace
The Ajuda National Palace stands as a prominent testament to Portugal’s monarchy.
It’s located in Belém on a hill overlooking the Tagus River; this neoclassical palace has a unique interior and many unique royal artifacts.
You can’t really experience the gardens if it’s raining, but if you have an umbrella, you should experience them. It has beautiful sculptures and manicured lawns.
When you explore the Ajuda National Palace, you get a glimpse into Portugal’s royal past, and it’s truly something you have to experience.
10. Enjoy A Cup of Coffee at Brasileira Coffee Shop
Dating back to 1905, A Brasileira café is legendary in the Chiado district.
There is a sculpture of the poet Fernando Pessoa out front before you go inside the cafe.
It’s super famous and often crowded by tourists, but if it’s a rainy day, you might have it by yourself. They have a lot of seating inside.
If it’s completely packed, there are many more cafés around Lisbon.
11. Visit The World’s Oldest Bookshop
Right next to the A Brasileira Coffee Shop is the Bertrand Bookstore. It’s the world’s oldest operating bookstore, a literary gem with a rich history dating back to 1732.
You can still buy books today, both in Portuguese and English, and it’s an incredible experience.
The store has preserved its traditional character while adapting to modern times, with a diverse selection of contemporary and international titles.
Alternatively, you can browse through these other English bookstores.
12. Visit a kid-friendly Museum
If you’re visiting Lisbon with your kids, you have to try one of the kid-friendly museums as a rainy day activity, like:
- Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva: This interactive science museum is perfect for kids. It features hands-on exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that make learning about science and technology fun.
- Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência: This museum of natural history and science has a diverse range of exhibits, including fossils, minerals, and animal specimens.
- Museu da Marioneta (Puppet Museum): Children often enjoy puppetry, and this museum is dedicated to the art of puppet-making and puppet shows. It’s a unique and entertaining experience for kids.
- Museu da Água (Water Museum): This museum focuses on the history of water supply in Lisbon. It’s an educational yet engaging experience for children, with interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- Museu Nacional do Azulejo (National Tile Museum): This museum showcases the beautiful Portuguese art of azulejos, which are traditional ceramic tiles. While it may not be specifically designed for children, the colorful and artistic displays could capture their interest.
Tip: When planning your visit, check the museums’ websites for any special exhibitions, events, or workshops that might be of particular interest to children.
13. Kidzania Lisbon
The KidZania theme park is another place to give your kids an immersive and educational experience when there is bad weather.
The park is made for children aged 3 to 15. It’s located in the Dolce Vita Tejo shopping center, where you get a unique experience where kids can role-play in a mini city with over 60 realistic professions.
From firefighters to chefs, they engage in hands-on activities and earn KidZos, the park’s currency, to spend on food, snacks, and services.
Your children get to experience the responsibilities and challenges of various professions, fostering creativity, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
The park replicates an actual city with paved streets, buildings, and recognizable brands.
You don’t have to stay with them while they’re in the park; you can go shopping in the Dolce Vita Tejo shopping center.
Tip: This option is a bit more expensive but is still worth visiting for kids over six.
14. The Planetarium
The Lisbon Planetarium is an educational experience for both kids and adults. You find it in Parque Eduardo VII.
It’s a captivating space dedicated to astronomy. You get to experience state-of-the-art technology, and it offers immersive dome shows that transport you to the depths of the universe.
The planetarium provides an incredible experience for all ages, from displays of stars to educational presentations on the solar system.
Astronomers guide you through cosmic journeys, answering questions and showcasing the mysteries of the cosmos.
The facility also hosts educational programs, making it an ideal destination for families, students, and anyone curious about the wonders of the night sky.
15. Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are always a fun experience. You can choose between different levels and have a good time with friends or family.
I can recommend checking out the escape room “Game Over“, they have a location in Bairro Alto and one in Santa Clara.
Each place has 6-10 different types of escape rooms, so if you’re up for it, you can spend the entire day trying to figure out how to get out. It’s super fun.
If Game Over doesn’t have space, an alternative could be to try Escape Hunt, which is similar to Game Over.
They have three different types of escape rooms and are located right in Baixa.
16. Oceanarium
The Oceanário de Lisboa in Lisbon is an incredible experience that I had recently. You enter the Oceanarium, and in the middle of this massive building, you see an enormous aquarium.
You find the Oceanário de Lisboa in Parque das Nações, and this aquarium is one of the most significant indoor marine habitats globally, with a wide variety of sea life from different ecosystems.
The Oceanário de Lisboa provides a unique underwater experience with its transparent tunnels, allowing you to walk through and observe marine life from different perspectives.
The aquarium’s commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness adds an enriching layer to the experience.
17. Trampoline Park
Let your kids burn off energy at a trampoline park like JumpYard Lisboa. It is an exhilarating trampoline park in a little drive outside Lisbon.
Your family can enjoy a dynamic environment where everyone can bounce, flip, and fly through the air. There are dedicated areas for different activities, such as dodgeball and basketball.
The park also hosts events, fitness classes, and special sessions. JumpYard Lisboa is a fun-filled, high-energy adventure for individuals and families alike.
Tip: Lisbon is packed with indoor activities, but there are 40 more things you can do.
Here are the best things to do in Lisbon in February 2026
I’ll send you a list of the best things to do in February and every month thereafter.
It’s based on my personal experience of living and traveling around Lisbon for years. I’m sharing many hidden gems.
Looking for weekly Lisbon tips? Check out my Lisbon Newsletter.
Wrap-Up
Don’t let the rain stop you from enjoying beautiful Lisbon. Ask your hotel reception for an umbrella, or purchase one in the city and continue exploring.
Some neighborhoods are better than others for rainy days; Chiado and Baixa have the most indoor options within walking distance.
If it rains heavily, as it does sometimes in Lisbon, choose an indoor activity that lasts all day so you don’t have to go outside too much. One option is to visit the Oceanarium.
I prefer to take an Uber around Lisbon when it’s raining, and I recommend you do the same unless you’re close to public transport options and don’t mind getting a little wet.
Learn more about the public transport system in Lisbon and how doing it the “right way” can save you a lot of money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning On Going To Lisbon?
I’ve created a trip planner where you enter the number of days you’re going and what activities you want to do.
Based on your input, you then get an entire vacation planned with ideas.
The Sintra Toy museum has been shut for years.
Thank you for this, Henna. I was not aware of that. I’ve removed it from the list. ????