Lisbon has quickly become one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations, drawing visitors from around the world with its sun-soaked streets, historic trams, breathtaking viewpoints, and world-class food scene. But with its growing popularity comes a downside: tourist traps. These overpriced, overhyped, and often underwhelming experiences can leave travelers feeling like they’ve missed the real charm of the city.
Many of these traps are cleverly disguised as “authentic” experiences, making them easy to fall for, especially for first-time visitors. They can be as subtle as a restaurant with a “traditional” menu designed for tourists, or as obvious as a crowded tram ride that locals abandoned long ago.
Avoiding these pitfalls isn’t about skipping Lisbon’s highlights—it’s about knowing where to go, when to go, and how to experience the city the way locals do. By understanding what’s truly worth your time (and what’s not), you can make your trip both more meaningful and more affordable.
Read here best things to know before visiting Portugal, 1 Day Lisbon Itinerary and how to get from Lisbon airport to city center
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Quick Easy Tips
Research ahead of time and check reviews from local sources, not just tourist platforms.
Visit major landmarks early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds.
Eat where locals eat: if the menu has pictures and multiple languages, that’s usually a red flag.
Use public transportation wisely—sometimes walking gives a more authentic feel than waiting in long lines.
Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the main tourist zones; Lisbon’s hidden corners are often the most magical.
Tourism has brought both opportunity and challenges to Lisbon. On one hand, it has boosted the economy, created jobs, and introduced the city’s culture to the world. On the other hand, many locals feel that the city is becoming more catered to visitors than its own residents. This tension can be felt in neighborhoods that have transformed from traditional communities into souvenir-lined streets.
Another controversial aspect is pricing. Many restaurants and attractions in tourist-heavy areas have significantly inflated prices that don’t reflect the quality of the experience. Locals often avoid these places entirely, leaving them as traps for unsuspecting visitors who think they’re getting “authentic” Lisbon.
Finally, over-tourism has impacted the city’s rhythm. Traditional experiences are often repackaged to appeal to mass audiences, which can strip away their cultural authenticity. For a truly meaningful visit, travelers must navigate carefully between what’s marketed to them and what locals genuinely value.
Tourist Traps to Avoid in Lisbon
1. Tram 28
Why to Avoid: Tram 28 is famous for offering a route that passes through many of Lisbon’s tourist attractions, making it extremely popular. However, it’s often overcrowded, and pickpockets are known to target tourists on this route.
Alternative: Instead of cramming onto Tram 28, consider taking less crowded trams or exploring the same areas on foot. You can also use other public transportation options or even join a guided walking tour to see these historic areas without the hassle.
2. Restaurants in Main Tourist Squares
Why to Avoid: Eating at restaurants in main tourist squares like Rossio or Terreiro do Paço can be overpriced and the food quality may not always be the best.
Alternative: Walk a few streets away from the main squares to find more authentic dining experiences at better prices. Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Mouraria offer great local eateries where traditional Portuguese dishes are served.
Read Here Best Traditional Portuguese Dishes to Try
3. Time Out Market
Why to Avoid: While the Time Out Market is a popular spot for tourists wanting to sample a variety of Portuguese cuisine under one roof, it can be quite expensive compared to other local spots.
Alternative: Explore local mercados (markets) such as Mercado de Campo de Ourique, where you can still enjoy a wide range of foods and drinks but with fewer tourists and lower prices.
4. Padrão dos Descobrimentos & Belém Tower
Why to Avoid: These iconic monuments are must-visits, but the surrounding areas can be very crowded and filled with pricey souvenir shops.
Alternative: Visit these sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Instead of buying souvenirs at these sites, check out local shops in less touristy neighborhoods.
5. Fado Shows in Tourist Areas
Why to Avoid: While experiencing a Fado performance is essential when visiting Lisbon, some shows in tourist-centric areas can be overpriced and lack authenticity.
Alternative: Look for a Fado night at a local restaurant or bar in Alfama or Bairro Alto. These are often less commercial and provide a more authentic experience. Make sure to check reviews or ask locals for recommendations.
6. Sintra Day Trips
Why to Avoid: Organized day trips to Sintra can be rushed and more expensive than doing it yourself.
Alternative: Plan a self-guided trip to Sintra. Public transport is readily available and affordable, allowing you to explore at your own pace. This way, you can spend more time at locations like the Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
7. Castelo de S. Jorge
Why to Avoid: The castle is a major landmark but often has long lines for entry and can be crowded.
Alternative: Visit other viewpoints or miradouros in Lisbon for equally stunning views without the crowds. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro de Santa Catarina are excellent choices.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon’s beauty isn’t found in the crowded, overpriced corners that tourists flock to—it lives in its quiet alleyways, its neighborhood bakeries, and its sunset viewpoints that aren’t on every travel blog. By sidestepping the city’s biggest tourist traps, you can experience a more honest and memorable version of Lisbon.
Being informed is the best travel strategy. Recognizing tourist traps doesn’t mean avoiding the city’s highlights altogether; it simply means experiencing them on your own terms, without falling for the gimmicks. This approach not only saves time and money but allows for deeper connections with the place itself.
In the end, the most rewarding travel experiences happen when you look beyond the obvious. Lisbon has layers of history, culture, and daily life that reveal themselves to those who take the time to wander wisely and live a little like a local.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.