Lisbon in June: 17 Things to Do and Pack

Lisbon in June is one of the best times to visit, and it is the vibrant capital city of Portugal.

With pleasant weather, cultural events, and public holidays, June promises to be exciting.

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon this June, here’s what you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.

Things to do in Lisbon in June

Lisbon is a city that loves to celebrate, and June is no exception. Here are some of the exciting things to do in Lisbon in June:

1. Festas de Lisboa

Nothing is more exciting for popular times than visiting Lisbon in June as a month-long celebration starts honoring popular saints like Saint Anthony. 

Saint Anthony of Padua, also known as Saint Anthony of Lisbon, was a Portuguese Catholic priest and friar of the Franciscan Order. He was born in Lisbon in 1195 and lived for some time in Coimbra before joining the Franciscan Order in 1220.

Saint Anthony was known for his powerful preaching, knowledge of scripture, and devotion to the poor and sick. He traveled extensively throughout Italy and France and died in Padua, Italy, in 1231 at the age of 36.

Saint Anthony is a beloved saint in Portugal, and his feast day is celebrated on June 13th with a grand parade and other festivities in Lisbon. He is also known as the patron saint of lost things.

The cobbled streets are filled with music, food, and dancing, and there’s a grand parade on June 13th. The procession for Festas de Lisboa begins at Avenida da Liberdade and ends at the Praça dos Restauradores.

It usually features various floats, music, dance performances, and traditional costumes. It’s a beautiful celebration that takes place in Lisbon every year.

Dia de Camões

Dia de Camões, also known as Portugal Day or Dia de Portugal, takes place on June 10th. It marks the death of the national poet Luis de Camoes and is a day when Portuguese people celebrate their culture and heritage.

Today, people in Portugal celebrate their country’s culture, history, and achievements. Many towns and cities hold parades, processions, and festivals with traditional music, dance, and food.

The national flag is displayed throughout the country, and people dress in their finest attire. It is an excellent time to experience traditional Portuguese heritage. 

In addition, the President of Portugal will give a national speech to highlight the country’s achievements and pay tribute to the Portuguese people. Military and civilian ceremonies take place in Lisbon and other cities.

Overall, Portugal Day is a day of national pride and celebration, where people come together to honor their country and its heritage.

Dia de Santo António

The day is worldwide known as St. Anthony’s Day and is a public holiday on June 12 – 13. The day is dedicated to the patron saint, St. Anthony. It is an ideal time to enjoy street parties, traditional food, and music in the summer weather. 

I mentioned the patron saint at the start of the festivals taking place. This is one of the biggest celebrations in Lisbon in June. You find people attending mass in the morning.

It is then followed by lively street festivals throughout the day and night. The daytime temperature makes it a great time to explore traditional foods like bread, grilled sardines, and wine. 

One of the most popular traditions is the “Bridegrooms of St. Anthony,” where single women place basil in their windows to attract a potential suitor. It’s a fun and festive atmosphere that brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the patron saint of Lisbon.

2. Lisbon Book Fair

The book fair typically occurs in Parque Eduardo VII and features hundreds of bookstations, author talks, and readings. It is held from late May to early June.

Hot Tip: Still, if you do not want to wait for the book fair, there are some great English Bookstores to visit in Lisbon. 

4. Other Lisbon Events in June

While the above are some of the main events to look forward to, there are other events taking place as well:

• June (11 days): Festival de Sintra, a classical music and opera event.
• June 15–16 & 22–23: Rock in Rio, Lisbon, an outdoor rock concert.
• June 15–23: Arraial Pride, Lisbon LGBT pride festivities
• June 23–24: Festa de São João Porto, a festival where you can enjoy street parties with all-night concerts. You can enjoy bonfire jumping and see people hitting each other with novelty hammers.

5. Unwind at Comedouro

After the grand parade, escape the bustling crowd and unwind at Comedouro, an upscale restaurant with a separate bar. When arriving around 11:00 p.m., you will be met with the pleasant surprise of the open bar. Indulge in a revamped Negroni, served elegantly in a heavy-cut glass, as you savor the sophisticated ambiance.

6. Indulge in Gelato

For a leisurely June activity, venture to Entrecampos and treat yourself to the delightful gelato at Matoli.

Crafted on-site, the gelato offers a perfect summer indulgence. Engage in friendly conversation with the Brazilian owner, share a variety of flavors, and relish the cozy atmosphere away from the bustling city.

7. Explore MAAT

Visit the MAAT museum, an Art, Architecture, and Technology hub, in June to embark on an engaging journey.

Nestled along the Tejo River between Lisbon and Belém, MAAT showcases imaginative exhibits, including Hervé Di Rosa’s “Archipelago.”

After exploration, ascend to the rooftop for breathtaking views of Lisbon, making this experience a cultural and visual delight.

8. Dine at Sud Lisboa Terrazzo

Elevate your lunch experience in June by dining at Sud Lisboa Terrazzo. Though prices may be steep, the exquisite food and panoramic river views make it a worthwhile indulgence.

Treat yourself to elegantly presented dishes, such as pasta with meat sauce and a quinoa salad, all complemented by the chic ambiance and occasional live entertainment.

9. Cherry Festival

Embrace Portugal’s cherry season in June by attending the Festa da Cereja in Alcongosta.

Enjoy cherry-themed festivities, including tastings, live music, and traditional Portuguese dance.

Take a scenic walk on the Rota da Cereja, exploring cherry orchards, and savor the vibrant energy of the festival, adding a touch of local charm to your Lisbon experience.

10. Discover a New Coffee Spot

In June, uncover the charm of Acento, a newly discovered specialty coffee shop between Saldanha and Estefania.

Delight in the aromatic offerings from Portuguese roasters So and Olispo, presented in a cozy cafe setting.

Whether seated or on the go, savor the distinctive coffee flavors, making Acento a delightful addition to your coffee exploration.

11. Visit A Ladeira Fare

Embrace the local culinary scene in June with a visit to A Ladeira in Saldanha.

Indulge in grilled cuttlefish accompanied by boiled potatoes and green beans, or opt for a tantalizing serving of roasted chicken with rice and French fries.

Relish the simplicity and authenticity of Portuguese cuisine, creating a memorable dining experience.

12. Taste Some Tacos

Head to Príncipe Real for a flavorful June experience at Coyo Taco. Revel in an impressive selection of tequilas and treat yourself to refreshing and delicious margaritas. Savor the delectable carnitas and chicken tacos, offering the perfect culinary interlude after exploring the neighborhood.

13. Enjoy Dim Sum

Diversify your Sunday brunch routine in June with a visit to Macau Dim Sum in Rato, near the Amoreiras Mall. Share a variety of steamed dumplings, turnip cakes, and gyoza with friends. Immerse yourself in the unique flavors of dim sum, creating a satisfying and communal brunch experience.

14. Romance With a Sunset

In June, captivate your senses with stunning views from Miradouro do Largo das Necessidades. Marvel at the picturesque scenery, featuring a dramatic fountain and a beautiful church backdrop. Witness the breathtaking panorama of the April 25th Bridge, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.

15. Visit a Rooftop Bar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant social scene of Lisbon by visiting Go A Rooftop Bar in June. Delight in a delicious barbecue lunch, savoring the eclectic menu and breathtaking city views. Whether for a late afternoon drink or an evening out, Go A Rooftop Bar offers a lively and memorable experience.

16. Enjoy The Sunset on The Tagus River

Embark on a serene June evening by taking a sunset dinner cruise on the Tagus River. Enjoy glasses of wine, delectable risotto, and breathtaking views of Lisbon’s landmarks during the golden hour and sunset. Bask in the calm waters near the April 25th bridge, creating a memorable and tranquil river experience.

17. Explore Estoril

Escape the rising temperatures in June by exploring Estoril’s beaches and beach bars. Take a train from Lisbon to this charming destination, where you can savor coffee and local treats at Garrett. Unwind with a sunset gin and tonic at Tamariz Summer Club, overlooking Forte da Cruz, and relish the seaside allure of Estoril.

June Packing: Fashion Hacks

June is the start of summer in Lisbon, and the weather is usually warm and sunny, with occasional rain showers. So what can you expect from the temperatures, and what should you wear?

Lisbon Weather in June

June is a perfect time to visit Lisbon, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. You can expect mild temperatures; while not yet the hottest month, it is more bearable. 

The average temperature during the day is around 25°C (77°F), but it can sometimes get as high as 30°C (86°F). The evenings are pleasant and mild, with temperatures dropping to around 16°C (61°F).

Yet, it’s important to note that Lisbon can sometimes experience a heatwave in June, so it’s essential to come prepared with the proper clothing and accessories.

Lisbon in June is a beautiful place to enjoy a summer vacation. Which means you can expect sunny days and warm weather. 

What to Wear to Lisbon in June

As it is the perfect time to soak up the sun and enjoy the summer weather, I recommend you pack the following for your trip:

Clothing:

Packing light, breathable clothing, such as cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses.

As the weather can be sunny and warm, you might consider bringing light-colored clothes that reflect the sunlight and keep you cool.

You can also bring a swimsuit to visit the beaches in popular destinations like Costa da Caparica or Cascais.

Footwear:

Lisbon is a beautiful city to explore on foot, so you’ll need comfortable shoes for walking around. It’s recommended to bring sneakers or walking shoes that have good support and cushioning. You can also bring sandals or flip-flops to visit the beach.

Accessories:

Don’t forget to bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. You may also want to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, as temperatures can drop at night.

Other items:

You may want to consider bringing a small backpack or tote bag to carry your essentials while you’re out exploring the city. You can also bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Overall, I recommend packing light and comfortable clothes and bringing items that will keep you protected from the sun and cool during hot days. During the shoulder seasons, you can expect days with highs and lows. 

Having Fun in Lisbon in June

When visiting Lisbon in June, you can find various events taking place. But do not miss out on other attractions while here. You can explore the historic districts to soak up the sun on day trips to the beach or Sintra. Here are some ideas:

• Visit the Alfama neighborhood: This is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods and is home to narrow streets, colorful houses, and traditional Fado music.
• Take a day trip to Sintra: Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning palaces and gardens.
• Relax on the beaches: Lisbon has some beautiful beaches, including Praia de Carcavelos and Praia da Adraga, which are great for swimming and sunbathing.

Alternatively, you can always visit Lisbon in July for other amazing things.

Wrap-Up Come Prepared

As you can see, there are many things to do in Lisbon, but check out the other 40 things to do in Lisbon before visiting. Lisbon in June is a fantastic destination if you are looking for a mix of culture, history, and fun.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s neighborhoods, attending cultural events, or lounging on the beaches, there’s something for everyone in Lisbon in June.

Pack light, comfortable clothing and prepare for the occasional rain shower. With these tips, you will have an unforgettable trip to Lisbon in June.