Go to Lisbon at Easter is a fantastic idea. Many Europeans think of it, and yet, since many locals also leave the city, it never feels overcrowded.
The weather is usually pleasant – sometimes even warm enough to head to the beach.
As it's such a busy time, you should book your hotel (or browse our selection of apartments) in advance to take advantage of the best deals.
During Easter in Lisbon, most restaurants and shops open as usual.
Traditional Easter food in Portugal
It's typical at this time of year to eat lamb or roast lamb, baked in the oven with potatoes or cooked in stews with vegetables. Some families also prefer cod.
The traditional sweet treat during these days is Folar da Pascoa, a sweet bread wreath with a hard-boiled egg baked into the center. You can also enjoy almonds and chocolates, available in all bakeries and supermarkets in many varieties during this time.
Things to do in Lisbon during Holy Week
Classic city sightseeing
If you've never been to the city, the first thing to do is take a leisurely walking tour of the center, strolling through its streets and stopping at its viewpoints.
On the following days, you can extend your visit to the area of Belém Tower, in the Belém neighborhood, and to the Park of Nations.
You can create your own itinerary with the places we highlight in What to see in Lisbon.
If your stay falls on a Saturday or Tuesday and you enjoy flea markets, make sure to visit the Feira da Ladra, which you can reach after riding the Tram from Baixa.
Day trips around Lisbon
If you already know the basics of Lisbon, or if you have extra time, we recommend extending your visit and taking a day trip to the surrounding area, especially to Sintra or Cascais. Blue-watered beaches and magical mountains just a few minutes from central Lisbon. You can go on your own or browse ideas for guided tours on our page of guided tours.
Religious activities
The city's main churches organize processions and concerts during Easter. Not with the same intensity and scale as in other countries, such as Spain, for example. But if you're interested in taking part in religious events, visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) or some of the churches in Alfama.
You can also visit the Christ the King (Cristo Rei) of Lisbon, on the Almada side of the river. To get there, take a ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas.
More things to do in Lisbon
For more ideas on tours and activities, check out our list of 101 things to see and do in Lisbon. There you'll find options for every type of traveler, as well as the must-sees when visiting the Portuguese capital.
If it rains during those days, follow these tips: 5 things to do in Lisbon when it rains
If you're traveling with family, check out our page Lisbon with kids.
Remember that if you want to skip the long lines at the vast majority of Lisbon's attractions (museums, monuments) and travel FREE on Lisbon's public transportation (metro, trains, tram and buses), you can purchase a Lisboa Card, which will let you enjoy a wide range of services and attractions at no cost
