There is no better place to spend your summer holidays than in Portugal. It is an ideal summer holiday destination, especially Lisbon.
There are many things to do in Lisbon in the summer, as the weather is ideal for exploring beautiful beaches like Guincho Beach, especially around June.
The Mediterranean summer allows you to enjoy the summer heat, and the beach is not the only thing you can explore.
Here is a list you can add to your summer itinerary visiting Lisbon.
1. Cruise Along The Targus River
Toast summer in Lisbon with a cruise along the Targus River to enjoy the summer afternoons.
I promise there is no better way to see the city than the water. Once you board the boat, you will see that the view is better when there is light.
Hence, the experience is more enjoyable during the summer, and you can enjoy the gentle breeze on the deck.
You will see from Jerónimos Monastery, Cristo Rei, to the Belém Tower. Some cruises include a drink to refresh the tour, and you can enjoy some Portuguese wine.
Still, be careful on these boat trips, as the summer sun can get hot. Protect your face with a hat and sunscreen, and take a light jacket.
Hot Tip🔥: Before planning a trip to Lisbon for the first time, browse through the First-Timers Guide. Also, invest in a Lisboa Card to save some money while here.
2. Enjoy The Lisbon Festivities
Lisbon is one of those places that have many summer festivals. During the whole month of June, you can enjoy music festivals or traditional music around town.
During summer, the city has one big party, as you have celebrations for St. Peter, St. Anthony, and St. John. In June, they commemorate these patron saints, called Festas dos Santos Populares.
Enjoy the parade along Avenida Liberdade and engage in dancing, bonfires, barbeques, and more until the early morning hours.
The food ranges from roasted sardines to delicious pastel de nata.
3. Cool Off at The Beach
I do not know about you, but when I visit Lisbon in summer, it smells like the beach. Lisbon has many beaches you can explore, so escape to Cascais, which is easy within reach.
It is 40 minutes from Lisbon and part of the famous Portuguese Riviera. For the best summer scenery, enjoy the sandy white beaches and turquoise blue ocean.
Still, if you plan to stay overnight, book your hotel in advance as it fills up quickly.
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4. Enjoy The Long Summer Nights
While Lisbon has some great bars, the best thing is that most of them are small, and you end up partying on the streets.
During winter, this might be a turn-off, but during summer, it is one of the best Lisbon experiences.
Enjoy the cooler temperatures at night to enjoy the atmosphere, listen to commercial music, and party the night away.
Hot Tip🔥: Check out these great rooftop bars to enjoy the summer nights in Lisbon.
5. Hop on a Tour Bus
Lisbon’s summer temperatures can reach 35ºC, so walking up those steep city hills during the day might not be a good idea.
So, why not book a Lisbon sightseeing bus tour with air conditioning? It is an excellent alternative to getting around the city and enjoying your trip in the summer month.
Hot Tip🔥: I recommend booking tickets for a tour bus with accessible stops. You can then enjoy Lisbon’s panoramic views while still being in motion.
With such a bus tour, you can connect to some of the city’s important points, such as Praça do Comércio, the Belém Tower, or the Parque Eduardo VII.
6. Summer Concerts
During the summer, many summer festivals take place from June to September.
Whether it is the Rock in Rio or NOS Alive, there is always something to look forward to in summer in Lisbon.
Another great hit is the Sumol Summer Fest at the end of June, which will start in July and last for two days. So why not dance into the summer nights?
7. Picnic in a Lisbon Park
For lunch in Lisbon, there is no better way to spend your day than eating quality food in one of the many parks.
Invest in some fresh, typical Portuguese food at one of the markets, great wine, and a blanket to sit under the trees.
Head to Eduardo Vll, one of the city’s largest parks with plenty of space and a picnic area.
So start early and head to one of the best bakeries to buy fresh bread, fruit, and more.
Hot Tip🔥: For more things to do in Lisbon, add these hidden gems to your list.
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8. Cool Down at a Lisbon Viewpoint
One of the best places to enjoy some sun ☀ or to sit under shaded trees in summer is the Lisbon viewpoints.
You can enjoy the incredible views standing on the terraces. You can even find one with hammocks you can rent, like the Portas do Sol lounge.
So, use the afternoon hours at any of these viewpoints in Lisbon from Miradouro de Santa Luzia to Sao Pedro de Alcantara.
9. Visit Time Out Market During The Summer Months
When you start feeling hungry, visit the Time Out Market, as it is a perfect 👌 place to be. Visit the food market early in the morning as it is busy during lunch and dinner.
Here, you can find food stalls run by high-end Portuguese chefs. It is a fantastic spot to savor delicious food at an affordable price. Choose from fish, meat, or vegan options.
10. Take The Coolest Day Trips
You can take incredible day trips from the city center of Lisbon to explore the surroundings.
Visit Cascais, Sintra, Setubal, Obidos, Peniche, and more to explore these unique towns, offering amazing beaches, castles, and more.
Summer Temperatures in Lisbon
Visiting Lisbon in the summer, you can expect temperatures between 15ºC to 35ºC. You can enjoy 15 hours of daylight with minimal rainfall.
So, it is the best place for a Mediterranean summer vacation. Although the weather can become dry in August, this does not stop the city’s liveliness.
Hot Tip🔥: If you plan to visit Lisbon in summer, it is a perfect time to explore Portuguese history and enjoy beach time. Make sure you book the best hotels with air conditioning at affordable prices.
One thing is for sure: you won’t need an umbrella. You’ll only need to pack your summer clothes and a light jacket.
Wrap-Up: Things to Do in Lisbon in The Summer
In the summer, Lisbon offers various activities that cater to all interests.
From cruising along the Tagus River and enjoying the city’s vibrant festivals to relaxing on beautiful beaches and exploring the city’s viewpoints, there is something for everyone.
Lisbon is undoubtedly a top summer destination with delicious food, lively nightlife, and stunning landscapes.
Whether you’re a foodie, a beach lover, or a history enthusiast, Lisbon has it all. So, make the most of your summer by adding these exciting activities to your Lisbon itinerary!
