Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal

One of Europe’s oldest and most colorful cities, Lisbon is an ideal base for Canadian snowbirds to escape the Canadian winter.  Bathed in sunshine for much of the year, Lisbon enjoys a very early spring and mild winters.

And Lisbon is more affordable than most European cities, particularly during the off-season – which is when snowbirds like to go!

The city is located on the Atlantic – the only European capital that enjoys that distinction – so there are wonderful beaches nearby.  Lisbon also has good direct air connections with Toronto and Montreal.  

Known as the city of the seven hills, Lisbon is spotted with more than two dozen viewpoints known as miradouros. Each viewpoint offers a unique perspective on the city and is like a small park.  Lisbon  is also known for its wonderful tiles, known as azulejos, which can be found on many buildings’ facades and walls throughout the city.

A wide variety of landscapes and history is close by for exploring, whether to the north or south of the capital. With beaches, natural parks, cultural routes, and accommodations to suit all budgets, Lisbon is an ideal choice for snowbirds.

Getting Here

Lisbon has regular flights from Canada throughout the winter, making it easy to get to for snowbirds without having to transfer through Europe or change planes.

Three airlines offer direct flights between Lisbon (LIS) and either Toronto or Montreal - Air Canada, Air Transat, and TAP Air Portugal. Schedules vary depending on the month but TAP flies daily and Air Transat and Air Canada fly several times per week. Check with each airline for further details, depending on your dates.

Weather – October to April

With an average of more than 300 sunny days a year, winter here can sometimes seem more like spring, and you always need to have your sunglasses.  Even in winter, Lisbon has a mild climate and is an ideal location for snowbirds.

Temperatures during the winter months are in the low to mid-teens.

Terrain and Landscape

Lisbon is a port city on the Atlantic Ocean built on large hills which afford spectacular views.

Situated at the mouth of the river Tagus where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is a city with a strong connection to the sea and is the only European capital with Atlantic beaches which makes it ideal for snowbirds as they can take walks along the coast and spend time at the beach.

Accommodations & Where to Stay

More and more Canadian snowbirds seek out Lisbon for a long-term visit due to its quality of life, as seen in its climate, cuisine, security,  and quality/price ratio. There has been a growing demand from Canadian snowbirds.  While there are plenty of websites that focus on long-term rentals, when searching for a place to rent, it's important  to consider your preferences, budget, and desired location.

For more information on accommodations click here.

Here’s a guide to the popular neighborhoods in Lisbon:

• Baixa, Chiado & Avenida da Liberdade: This is the central main artery running through the heart of Lisbon. As you set out from Marquês de Pombal towards the river Tagus, you find yourself walking down the Avenida da Liberdade. Numerous international brands have shops along both flanks of this broad avenue, with its trees and outdoor cafes that draw you on to downtown Lisbon.
• Alfama, Castelo, Graça & Mouraria: The city becomes increasingly iconic and picturesque, the further you delve into its historic and medieval districts. As you walk along the stone-paved, narrow and often steep streets of Alfama and Mouraria, you are literally transported back in time. Perched at the very top of this hill is the Castle of S. Jorge that occupies a strategic position with unrivalled views of the city
• Bairro Alto, Bica & Cais do Sodré: During the day, the historic Bairro Alto and Bica quarters delight  visitors with their picturesque  neighborhoods. Bairro Alto is home to a multitude of alternative shops, second-hand clothes stores, hairdressers, record stores, art galleries and much more. At night everything changes and a party atmosphere prevails. The area is the center of Lisbon nightlife.  
• Parque das Nações: This is Lisbon at its most modern. On the east side of town, contemporary architecture now covers a vast area of urban regeneration. The most well-known examples of this are the Portugal Pavilion roof and the Gare do Oriente. The many green spaces along the riverbank, the cable car, the Pavilion of Knowledge-Ciência Viva and the Oceanarium make this neighborhood very appealing.

Attractions & Sights

There are many wonderful sights and attractions in Lisbon and since you will be staying longer than the average visitor, you will have time to discover all of them.  

Here are 10 Must See and Do things in Lisbon:

1. Climb to the Castle of São Jorge and stroll through Alfama:  Anyone coming to Lisbon and not going to the Castle of São Jorge will have missed an unforgettable moment. It is the highest point in the city, set amongst the most typical of neighborhoods. A unique opportunity to feel and understand the city’s relationship with the river Tagus.
2. Listen to Fado:  Whether or not you like the style of music, dinner by candlelight listening to fado in Lisbon is unmissable. Consider yourself lucky and do stop, if you hear it sung while strolling through some street in Alfama, Mouraria or Madragoa. This style is the so-called fado vadio, or amateur, sung when someone gets the urge to sing, with the guitars simply joining in.
3. Go to Terreiro do Paço:  The largest square in Lisbon and one of the most iconic symbols of the city and its rebuilding after the great earthquake of 1755. Currently, it mostly offers a very pleasant walk along the river in the late afternoon. It is also a very beautiful view from the river as you pass on a boat.
4. Go up in the Santa Justa elevator:  You cannot miss it when you pass it while ambling through the downtown district. It offers enviable views over this old part of Lisbon, and it is a privilege to travel in this elevator designed by Ponsard, a disciple of the great master of iron works, Gustave Eiffel, more than a hundred years ago.
5. Take a tram ride:  The tram is a common means of transport for Lisbonites, but also one of the best ways to travel through the historic neighbourhoods. It looks good in any photo, and the sound of the trams running on their rails is one of the most characteristic of the city. The No. 28 is the best known, but there are others.
6. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém:  Lisbon has two unique monuments which are World Heritage Sites. They are two jewels of the Gothic Manueline style that easily impress. Apart from the vaults carved in stone that are a remarkable piece of engineering, the wealth of decorative elements linked to maritime aspects and the voyages of the Navigators is fascinating.
7. Taste a pastel de Belém:  This is a highlight of Portuguese cuisine and its recipe is a closely guarded secret that makes them unique. Not to be missed! A sweet pastry that Lisbonites like to eat along with their coffee.
8. Visit the Oceanarium in the Parque das Nações:  The Parque das Nações is a success story in the revitalization of an industrial area, with a privileged location on the river. It is worth visiting the Oceanarium, one of the largest in Europe, where you can appreciate the flora and fauna of the various oceans of our planet.
9. Visit the National Tile Museum and  National Coach Museum:  These two museums are unequalled anywhere in the world. One tells the story of the tile in Portugal from its first uses on 16th century walls to the present day; the other has an unrivalled collection of carriages, with fine examples from the 18th century, exuberantly decorated with paintings and gild work.
10. Dine in Bairro Alto:  Lisbon is also known for its very lively and busy nightlife. After an afternoon shopping in the elegant Chiado district, there’s nothing like a late afternoon at one of the viewpoints of Santa Catarina or São Pedro de Alcântara, then staying for dinner in the Bairro Alto. It’s the place to be for those who enjoy a night out having fun.

Culture and Entertainment

There is no shortage of culture and entertainment in Lisbon, a city that is steeped in history seen in its museums and galleries.  As well, there are great musical performances and of course, the traditional Fado music.   Here are just a few experiences that are not to be missed when visiting this great city.

• Fado: No trip to Lisbon would be complete without a traditional Fado music performance. Both melancholic and soulful, Fado provides a profound emotional experience that is not easily forgotten. The genre originally appeared in the capital during the early 19th century and has since evolved into one of Portugal’s greatest traditions, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO since November 2011.
• National Coach Museum: One of the most visited museums in Portugal, it preserves and exhibits in the refined environment of the former Picadeiro Real, an exceptional collection of royal vehicles from the 17th century to the end of the 19th century.
• Royal Treasury Museum: Lisbon has a new museum housed in one of the largest safes in the world, divided by 3 floors and equipped with a sophisticated security system. Opened in June 2022, this museum displays a unique permanent collection of the former assets of the Portuguese Royal Family, including artworks that belonged to the Crown, as well as several items that belonged to private collections of various members of the Portuguese Royal Family, such as jewellery, insignia, decorations, coins, and pieces of civil and religious gold-smithery.
• Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation: The foundation has a museum that houses Calouste Gulbenkian’s private collection, and a Modern Art Center (CAM) which holds the most important collection of modern and contemporary Portuguese art as well as an extensive collection of contemporary British art. The Foundation also has an orchestra and a choir; an art library and archive; a scientific research institute; and a spacious garden, carefully landscaped and home to a wide variety flora, in a central area of Lisbon, which is ideal for all sorts of leisure and cultural activities.
• Casino Estoril:  Not only one of the biggest casinos in the world, but it is among the oldest as well. During the Second World War, spies took advantage of the environment and gambling to exchange information and arrange meetings Visited by many historical figures since its opening, the casino was the inspiration for "Casino Royale", the first James Bond adventure written by Ian Fleming, who also frequented the casino. It has over 1,200 slots and table games that are spread around its lavish floor space. Guests can take their minds off gambling by walking through the art gallery, taking in a show at the auditorium, checking into the Black and Silver room that sometimes hosts concerts and other acts, or relaxing in one of the many lounges.
• São Carlos National Theatre: Inaugurated in  1793, this National Monument is still today the only Portuguese theatre geared towards producing and presenting opera and choral and symphonic music. The theatre’s regular music program is held in three halls: the Main Hall, which stages the great operatic productions and symphonies and choral symphonies, and also dance. The Salão Nobre (Grand Hall), which leads onto the outside balcony, holds recitals and concerts of different instrumental formations, opera readings and more intimate performances. The Foyer – the entrance to the Theatre – is a favourite place for chamber concerts and short recitals with free admission which is ideal for informal social gatherings

Food & Dining

Lisbon is a dream destination for foodies, wine lovers, critics and the curious. From auteur restaurants to century-old tascas, there is always a table set and waiting for you. The famous bacalhau (salted cod), in its various forms, is not to be missed. The seafood and fresh fish bring the Atlantic onto your plate in a sophisticated way - or straight from the grill.

And the cafés, where so many Portuguese writers gather, have outdoor seating with stunning views, endless hours of enchanting sun and interesting wine lists where you can get to know one of Portugal’s greatest achievements.

And then there are those incredible custard tarts.  According to Taste Atlas, the pastel de Belém won first place in the list of the 100 best pastries in the world for 2023. This pastry is only produced at the ‘Fábrica dos Pastéis de Belém’, according to the recipe created in 1837 by the monks of the Jerónimos Monastery. Another curious fact is that the centuries-old secret recipe has never been written down. A mere three bakers have been entrusted with the recipe for these flaky custard tarts, and they’re strictly forbidden from travelling in the same car or plane together. 

Festivals & Events

There are many interesting events and festivals going on in and around Lisbon including during the winter and spring months for snowbirds.

• Feira da Ladra (or Flea Market): Discover Lisbon’s most original market, held every Tuesday and Saturday in Campo de Santa Clara, behind the monastery of São Vicente de Fora. Traditionally dedicated to selling used objects, you’ll find real gems, azulejos, antiques and handicrafts, amongst indescribable bric-a-brac. The market dates back to 1272 and was held in various parts of the city before settling permanently here. From here you can easily visit the Panteao Nacional and the church of São Vicente de Fora, so the best thing to do is save this neighbourhood for a day when the market is on.
• IndieLisboa - Independent Film Festival: Every March, showing more than 270 films, IndieLisboa attracts audiences and film professionals from all over the globe by allowing them to discover recent films from emerging talents and to rediscover reputed writers. The festival's divisions aim for a conceptually and geographically diverse selection.
• São Martinho: November 11 is a favourite day to celebrate in Portugal. Saint Martin was a Roman soldier who cut his cloak in half to share with a cold beggar. Afterwards, the sun came out – which is why warm winter days in early November are called Saint Martin’s Summer. This time of year, it is tradition to have a big magusto with roasted chestnuts and to drink água-pé and jeropiga.
• ModaLisboa - Lisbon Fashion Week: Portuguese designers present their new collections and trends for the next season every March and October. In a festive and creative atmosphere, Portuguese designers and brands amaze their audience with the audacity and innovation of their collections, promoting Portuguese fashion to the international fashion and design scene.
• Web Summit:  It is one of the most important world events of technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, bringing together more than 70,000 companies that are at the forefront of the industry. The conference is held each November and attracts a diverse list of over 1,000 world-class speakers.
• Monstra - Lisbon Animation Film Festival: Usually held in March, this festival celebrates artistic universality through animated films.
• Sesimbra Carnival: The main Carnival parades, organized by Samba schools and Axê groups, file along the waterfront of Sesimbra near Lisbon on Sunday and Tuesday and are joined by over a thousand participants and thousands of revellers.  On Shrove Tuesday, which typically occurs during February or early March, don’t miss the clown parade - considered one of the largest in the world with over 3000 costumed participants.

Sporting Events

One of the top surfing destinations in the world is adjacent to Lisbon and there are many other sporting events in the region for snowbirds to enjoy. 

There are 20 golf courses nearby and you can sometimes catch a tournament at one of them.  Lisbon is also home to two professional football teams.

Surfing and watersports - With more than two dozen Blue Flag beaches to choose from, the coast has excellent conditions for water sports and attracts surfers and bodyboarders from around the world, with all levels of experience. The experts say that the best waves in Europe are here, with a great diversity of types of waves and beach or rock breaks.  If surfing and body boarding is not your thing, it is also great to watch the action. Blue Flag beaches: Mafra (6 beaches), Cascais & Oeiras (13 beaches), Caparica (10 beaches), Arrábida (5 beaches)

EDP Lisbon Half Marathon - Held every March, this is the fastest half marathon in the world with more than 30,000 participants, including thousands of foreign athletes. The unique course that starts at the 25th de Abril Bridge and ends in the heart of Lisbon, in the Jerónimos Monastery.  

Millennium Estoril Tennis Open - Founded in 2015, this is the largest tennis tournament in Portugal and is held in Estoril at the end of March and early April.

Shopping

Lisbon is known as one of the more budget-friendly capital cities in Europe and offers great shopping.  Whether you are looking for designer stores or local souvenirs you will enjoy exploring Lisbon’s shopping districts and markets.

• Freeport Lisbon Fashion Outlet
• Time Out Market
• El Corte Inglés Lisboa
• Colombo Shopping Center
• Amoreiras Shopping Center
• Campo Pequeno Shopping Center
• Centro Vasco da Gama
• Armazéns do Chiado

Fitness and Outdoor Recreation

Lisbon and the surrounding area have great walking and hiking trails and cycling routes for snowbirds, including:

• Monsanto Forest Park for walking and hiking
• Cultural Landscape of Sintra (UNESCO) for hiking
• Arriba Fóssil da Costa da Caparica Protected Landscape
• Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve for birdwatching
• Sado Estuary Natural Reserve for sailing

Health Care and Medical Facilities

There is no shortage of healthcare options and hospitals for Canadians snowbirds while living in Lisbon:

• Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown
• Hospital da Luz Lisboa
• Malo Clinic
• Thalasso Caparica

Local Excursions

There are many interesting areas for snowbirds to explore to the north, east and south of Lisbon for excursions or short trips:

Cascais, Estoril & Guincho: With its picturesque town center, marina and the Atlantic Ocean,  Cascais is a hub for winter sports. The unspoiled nearby  Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais, which covers 1/3 of the total area of Cascais is great for hiking. The green landscapes of the area with the dunes and  views over the ocean are the perfect combination for some of the best golf courses in Portugal. Countless cultural activities, music, museums and other regular events also define Cascais. In addition to its Atlantic beaches, Estoril is a place of entertainment that owes much to its casino. A meal of fresh fish, overlooking the sea, is always a special treat here.

Sintra: List since 1995, Sintra has inspired artists and poets throughout its history. A trip up to the Serra de Sintra will take you to Pena Palace, the finest example of Portuguese romantic architecture. In the wooded hills of the Serra de Sintra, you will find traces of a more remote past: the Moorish Castle, telling the story of other eras. Enjoy a trip back in time, on foot or in a horse-drawn carriage, and discover lush gardens full of secrets and the magic charm of this mysterious town. Right in the center of Sintra is the National Palace, frequently enveloped in the enigmatic mist characteristic of the area’s microclimate. Sintra is far more than just a tourist destination. It is an illustrated fairy tale with sublime landscapes, unique nooks and an experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. A veritable work of art created by nature and people.

The Palmela wine region: Discover one of the oldest wine-producing regions in Portugal. With internationally award-winning vintages and several innovative wineries, the wines from Palmela are an excellent surprise. It’s worth getting to know this area rich in producers and products, where the red wines are smooth and spicy and the whites flowery.

Ericeira surfing capital: the route following the sea north of Lisbon is one of the most popular tours of the Portuguese coast. Along the way, there are some great surprises, like Ericeira, a fishing village with a lot of tradition linked to the sea, now recognized as one of the world’s surfing reserves. However, those coming to the village don’t have to be surfers to feel at home. Ericeira welcomes visitors from all over the world to its narrow streets and cosy atmosphere, its beach spirit, and the feeling of being on holiday all year round.

Deals & Offers for Canadians

Lisboa Card: The Lisboa Card is sold in adult and child versions, for 24h, 48h and 72h, and includes public transport and free entrance to 39 museums and monuments, and can be used to obtain 5% to 50% discounts at more than 80 locations. Please find more details about the services and discounts included here.

Cruise Ports

Lisbon Cruise Terminal: Please find more details in the official website.

Safety

Portugal comes in seventh in the most peaceful countries according to the 2023 Global Peace Index.

Cost of Living

Lisbon is more affordable than many European cities and accommodations are less expensive in the winter months.

LGBTQ

Lisbon will host “the largest pride celebration of LGBTI+ entities in Europe”, the EuroPride 2025 in June 2025. It takes place annually since 1992 in different European cities, with an extensive program of activities, conferences, meetings, a march, and a party.
 

See why Canadian snowbirds love Lisbon: