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Wondering what to wear in Lisbon? Here are some travel essentials and outfit ideas for every season!
What to Wear in Lisbon
Table Of Contents
A dynamic juxtaposition of old and new, Lisbon is both one of the oldest cities in Western Europe and one of the hottest destinations for travelers and digital nomads alike.
Pre-dating other European capitals like Paris, London and Rome, Lisbon is full of history. Many don’t know that it is a city built atop a series of steep hills.
Neighborhoods come together around sets of staircases and tram tracks that follow the immense heights and dips of the city center… Psst, that’s your cue to pack your walking shoes.
Here are comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!
Lisbon Clothing Style
Lisbon natives walk the streets with a style that’s a mix of comfortable and chic. Clothing is laid back and easygoing but peppered with hits of vibrancy, color, and cool-factor. Keep this in mind when planning what to wear on your trip.
In the warmer months, you’ll see lots of relaxed, breathable clothing, from wide leg pants and tees to midi dresses, all paired with cute and comfy sneakers. In chillier weather, you’ll see lots of jeans, chic rain jackets, and leather ankle boots. Readers say that overall, comfy and casual is the norm in Lisbon, with a basis of neutral colors and some fun, feminine colors and accessories thrown in!
Since the city is also a cruise port, you may see some people wearing their bikinis and cover-ups at major sites (even in the spring), but you’ll surely be more prepared with some of these outfit recommendations!
Sweater 1 | Shirt | Sweater 2 | T Shirt | Jeans | Coat | Jacket | Pants | Bag | Scarf | Boots | Sneakers
What to Wear in Lisbon in Spring (March, April, May)?
Lisbon can be warm in the daytime in spring, with high temperatures reaching to high 60s Fahrenheit and beyond. It’s a beautiful place to be at any time of the year, but it’s especially wonderful in spring. Like many European cities in spring, there’s always a possibility of rain, so be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:
- How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
- How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
- How to Pack for Europe in Spring
- Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Eddie Bauer Favorite Long-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt
Tops for Spring
In cooler springtime weather, readers suggest lightweight and breathable long sleeve tees for your Lisbon packing list for spring. Opt for fabrics such as cotton, linen, and merino wool, as they’ll add a nice amount of warmth without overheating you. One reader who traveled to Lisbon in the spring said the weather felt a bit chilly, especially anywhere near the water and when it got windy.
One cute pick is the Eddie Bauer long sleeve t-shirt, which is made from 100% cotton and boasts a flattering, slightly-relaxed fit. This staple can be dressed up and down and makes a great layering piece, too.
Shop Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater: Sizes XS-XL | Plus Sizes 1X-3X
Brisk spring mornings and cooler evenings in Lisbon call for a lightweight sweater to keep you cozy yet polished. Cashmere, merino wool, and alpaca sweaters are all fabulous options that you can throw on for effortless style and comfort whenever the weather calls for it.
One TFG reader shares that on her trip to Lisbon, she mostly wore cashmere or merino sweaters and would add a long or short sleeve t-shirt underneath if needed.
A classic-cut sweater like this cashmere option from Quince will go with absolutely everything and give you the perfect amount of warmth for a spring day. This gem is a major favorite with readers and is always recommended for its comfort and versatility.
Shop Sizes XS-4X: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Wide-Leg Pants
Bottoms for Spring
For pants, readers say that because you’ll be doing plenty of walking on hilly roads, your pants should allow you to be super mobile and not be too heavy.
If you want to keep it sporty, leggings and joggers are great options, especially on days that you’ll be super active. If you want to be less casual, jeans are a great option. In fact, one reader reported back from Lisbon that wide leg pants were seen all over and on women of all ages!
These wide leg pants from Old Navy are a top pick with readers for travel. Relaxed yet flattering, these pants are an easygoing pair that looks great with everything and can easily be dressed up for a night out. They have a hint of stretch, too, so they’ll be extra comfy when walking up flights of stairs or steep streets!
Shop Sizes 24-33: Lululemon City Sleek 5 Pocket High-Rise Wide-Leg Pant
Readers have also said that pants with technical fabric are great to keep things cool and fresh if you work up a sweat while walking.
There are a lot of fantastic pants that have sporty, utilitarian construction yet look like trousers! One of those pairs is the Lululemon City Sleek pants, which are designed for active adventures but look clean and sophisticated. Made of lightweight, stretchy, and moisture-wicking fabric, these pants are rugged and functional but can totally be paired with loafers and a sweater for a nice dinner!
A reader shared that it was more common to see women wearing functional pants rather than dresses and skirts during the day, but your trendy midi skirts and elegant maxi dresses are great pieces to pack for dinner or drinks in the evenings!
Shop Sizes XS-2X: Wool& Rowena Swing Dress
Dresses for Spring
Midi dresses are perfect to wear under a light jacket on warmer days. Opt for a dress that’s breathable and still keeps you feeling fresh.
The Rowena swing dress by Wool& is the perfect combination due to the merino wool fabric, which is temperature-regulating yet can keep you warm when temperatures drop. It’s also super cute and comes in a ton of colors.
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench Coat
Jackets for Spring
Since it’s spring, you’ll want to be prepared for the possibility of rain. Luckily, it’s more common to see off-and-on showers rather than full days of rain, so a packable rain jacket is ideal. They’re also great for blocking the chilly wind at night and to layer cozy pieces underneath.
You can never go wrong with a stylish trench coat. It’ll elevate even the simplest of outfits while keeping you warm and dry. And whether cinching them at the waist or wearing them loose and open, it’s easy to switch up their look day by day.
Eddie Bauer’s Girl on the Go trench coat has a sleek and feminine look, secure inner and outer pockets, and a comfy, adjustable hood. Readers also like that it’s breathable and allows for plenty of mobility, which is especially important when sightseeing around Lisbon.
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Columbia Arcadia Ii Jacket
Another popular option in the TFG community is the Columbia Arcadia II rain jacket. It’s lightweight and packs down into its own pocket, so it’s a perfect option for stashing in your bag during unpredictable spring days.
Sorel Emelie III Chelsea Waterproof Boots
Shoes for Spring
Shoes are one of the most important elements of your packing list for Lisbon. One reader says that it’s very hilly and the surfaces are all either cobblestones to tile, both of which can get slippery — especially if it rains. One TFGer says you need shoes with excellent traction and suggests a thicker sole so you don’t feel the uneven surfaces with each step.
Waterproof ankle boots are ideal for Lisbon in the spring — they’re worn by both locals and travelers. Pack a pair that’s sturdy, supportive, and won’t weigh you down. You won’t see many locals wearing heels due to the uneven streets, so a pair of stylish leather boots is also a perfect shoe to wear if you want to get a bit dressed up in the evening!
These Sorel Emelie Chelsea boots are practical with a stylish edge. They’re sturdy yet lightweight, with stellar traction and support on every surface. Plus, they’re waterproof and cozy!
One TFGer raved about her Blundstone Chelsea boots, saying that she wore them everywhere in Lisbon, and while it rained every day, she felt sturdy and never slipped!
ON Cloud 5 Waterproof Running Shoe
Waterproof sneakers are another great shoe option, especially on warmer spring days. Pack a supportive pair in a neutral color so they’ll mix and match with all of your outfits!
Readers have been loving these On Cloud 5 waterproof running shoes, and many have worn them on their European adventures. They boast amazing cushioning, ample arch support, a waterproof exterior, and a tread that can handle slick and uneven surfaces.
Find out why leather boots are some of the best travel shoes to Europe!
Shirt | Sleeveless 1 | Sleeveless 2 | Jacket | Jeans | Skirt | Shorts | Dress | Bag | Hat | Sneakers | Sandals
What to Wear in Lisbon in Summer (June, July, August)?
The summer months in Lisbon tend to be sunny and warm. If you’re headed to Portugal’s capital for a vacation between June and August, you’re pretty much guaranteed good weather, although the city will be busy.
June is fairly mild and one of the best months to visit, with temps in the high 70s F, while July and August can get up to the 80s!
Start by reading these Europe packing tips for summer:
- Capsule Wardrobe for Summer Travel
- How to Choose the Best Shoes for Europe
- The Ultimate Packing Guide for Europe
- Best Suitcases for Traveling Europe
Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Everlane The Organic Cotton Cutaway Tank
Tops for Summer
No Lisbon packing list for summer is complete without a basic t-shirt (or a few)! Comfy, cute, and effortless to style, short sleeve t-shirts are a warm-weather staple that you’ll no doubt wear repeatedly during your trip, and many readers say the same!
To stay as cool as possible, choose light and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. The Madewell Whisper cotton v-neck is a cute pick that’s popular with readers. It features a deep (but not too deep) v-neckline, a slightly slouchy fit, and supremely soft fabric.
You can also keep it cool with an airy tank top, like Everlane’s Organic Cotton Cutaway tank. This neutral option is casual yet polished and easy to style. The high neck and curve at the shoulders make it flattering, and the cotton is super soft!
Prints are a perfect way to add more personality into your summer wardrobe – and more personality is always appreciated in Lisbon. Big prints, small prints, muted, bold and everything in between goes!
Don’t forget a few go-to accessories. Select a simple yet bright single-strand necklace, versatile enough to dress up a variety of summer outfits, and pack a trendy backpack to make jetting around the city easy and effortless (especially with those steep hills!).
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
To get some coverage from the sun or to wear on slightly cooler summer nights, a linen button-down is such a chic choice. Pair it with matching linen pants or comfy jeans for an effortlessly polished, summery look.
This one from Quince is lightweight enough to keep you comfortable on a warm day, and the high quality, 100% European linen construction feels heavenly!
Shop Sizes XXS-4X: Madewell Clean Pull-On Shorts in 100% Linen
You can also opt for denim shorts, linen shorts, or even more modest long shorts. It gets warm enough in Lisbon to wear them!
Try out these cute Madewell pull up linen shorts, they’re soft, stylish, and super packable.
Shop Anthropologie The Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Pants: Sizes 23-34 | Plus Sizes 16W-26W
Bottoms for Summer
Linen is an amazing fabric in hot weather, so consider packing a cooling pair of linen pants on your summer trip! Readers love that they’re easy to throw on with virtually any top and simple sneakers, and they always look chic. Plus, they still look great a bit wrinkled!
A gorgeous pair that readers rave about is the Anthropologie Colette cropped trousers. These linen and cotton gems have become a travel staple for a lot of readers, as they have a weightless feel, a hint of stretch that flatters the body, and a versatile look that can go dressy or casual.
Shop Athleta Avenue Wide Leg Pants: Regular 0-26 | Petite 0-14 | Tall 0-16
If you’re planning on doing lots of walking and want to keep things a bit more sporty and performance-focused, these Athleta Avenue pants are the ones! The technical fabric has all the features you’d want—they’re breathable, sweat-wicking, and UPF 50+—but it’s also silky and sleek, preventing them from looking too casual. They’re wrinkle-resistant, too!
With Lisbon’s dry heat and beautifully rugged streets, comfortable pants are a must!
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Pact Fit & Flare Tie-Back Dress
Dresses or Jumpsuits for Summer
Lisbon’s summers are perfect for wearing a cute dress as you enjoy the sights and the delicious food! Readers opt for linen dresses or white dresses and sing the praises of dresses with pockets for ease of storing small items while out and about.
A new reader fave is the Pact fit & flare dress that ties up in the back, so it’s subtly sexy and completely stylish. If you need more help, here’s a guide to the best travel dresses for Europe,
Shop Sizes 0-16: Athleta Brooklyn Heights Wide Leg Jumpsuit
And, of course, don’t discount rompers or jumpsuits. They make instant outfits, and if you’re choosing the right fabrics, you won’t overheat. Stick to technical fabrics, cotton, or linen.
The newest fave is the Athleta Brooklyn wide leg jumpsuit, which can be dressed up with white sneakers or comfy walking sandals and is very breathable, moisture wicking, quick drying, and has UPF 50.
Shop Sizes XXS – 3X: J Crew Classic Denim Jacket
Jackets for Summer
It’ll be hot during the day, but readers agree that you should still pack a light jacket, as it’ll cool off at night.
You can never go wrong with a classic denim jacket. They offer the perfect amount of warmth for a summer day, are breathable, and always look stylish. J. Crew’s Classic denim jacket is always a reader favorite!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Style & Co Twill Jacket
If you don’t want to wear denim, this Style & Co twill jacket is a cute option that balances classy and cool. The cinched waist creates a lovely silhouette, while the front pockets make it practical.
Another great layering piece that’ll add instant sophistication to your outfit is a linen blazer or a linen jacket. Both will keep you polished and comfy — the best of both worlds! You could also opt for a lightweight cashmere sweater, a cardigan, or a wrap.
Shop Taos Star Fashion Sneakers: Zappos | Taos
Shoes for Summer
One reader says that all of Lisbon’s sidewalks are made of small and uneven cobblestones, so it’s important to protect your feet. That’s why most readers advise against sandals for sightseeing in the summer and instead recommend sturdy and supportive sneakers.
One reader says that she saw white sneakers everywhere on her trip to Lisbon, so if you want to hop on the cute white sneaker trend, the Taos Star sneakers are a fantastic option! TFG reader-approved, this comfy pair has arch support and lots of cushioning, so they’ll feel great on the bumpy streets. They’re also lightweight and great in the heat!
These Veja leather sneakers are incredibly stylish, durable, and comfy for long days of walking, too.
Another favorite among readers is the New Balance 574 sneakers. These sneakers are definitely sporty, but readers say they look cute with all of their casual sightseeing outfits.
Plus, their heavenly comfort makes them a major winner for walking-heavy destinations like Lisbon. Their foam-cushioned insoles, arch support, shock absorption, and traction will keep your feet happy all day long, and they’e available in wide sizes too!
These are the best summer dresses for Europe!
T Shirt | Sweater | Shirt | Jacket | Joggers | Dress | Raincoat | Jeans | Backpack | Scarf | Sneakers | Boots
What to Wear in Lisbon in Fall (September, October, November)?
Lisbon’s fall weather is still quite warm and sunny! Temperatures range from the high 70s F at the beginning of fall to the mid-60s F toward the end, so it’s still t-shirt weather! You may see a few rainy days here and there, too, as November and December are typically the rainiest months.
Start by reading these Europe packing tips for fall:
- How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
- How to Layer Clothes
- Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall
- Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall
Shop Sizes 2-26W: Lands End Wrinkle Free No Iron Button Front Shirt
Tops for Fall
For your Lisbon packing list for fall, pack both short sleeve t-shirts and long-sleeve t-shirts, as there will be some warmer and some cooler days on your autumn trip. Breathable button-down shirts are great, elevated, yet easygoing options for the fall weather, too.
Made of crisp, 100% cotton, this wrinkle-free Lands’ End button-down is chic and beyond easy to travel with!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Unbound Merino Merino V Neck Tshirt
Readers love the functional benefits of merino wool shirts, and they’re especially fantastic for fall in Lisbon. They’ll wick away sweat and keep things feeling fresh on warm days, add insulation and warmth on cooler days, and their thermoregulation will keep you comfortable no matter the weather!
This Unbound Merino t-shirt is a fantastic option that’s simple and understated, so it can be styled in endless ways. It’ll stay fresh and polished throughout your whole trip, too, as it’s odor-resistant, quick-drying, and doesn’t wrinkle!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Cotton Linen Twill Cargo Pant
Bottoms for Fall
Jeans are the go-to pants for fall, so definitely pack a comfortable pair.
Cargo pants are functional for all of the walking you’ll be doing, with the added bonus of being really stylish! These Quince cargo pants are an elevated take on the utilitarian style, with breathable cotton and linen construction and a cropped hem to show off some cute mid-calf boots.
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Vuori Boyfriend Joggers
Extra-active days call for sportier bottoms, like joggers or merino wool leggings. Lean into the athleisure look with tennis shoes and a tee, or add some juxtaposition with ankle boots and a leather jacket.
Versatility is key when it comes to travel pants, and these Vouri joggers are high quality, flattering, and stylish, so they’re easy to create more elevated looks with!
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Tencel Jersey Ruched Waist Dress
Dresses for Fall
Since the weather is still pretty decent, you can get away with a t-shirt dress or a basic short sleeve dress. The ever-popular Quince tencel dress is versatile for fall, spring, and even early summer! It goes with Mary Janes or tan flats, or even boots!
Shop Levis’ Faux Leather Moto Jacket: Sizes 1X-3X | Sizes XS-XXL
Jackets for Fall
The ideal fall coats for Lisbon are midweight options that you can layer underneath. Think denim jackets, leather jackets, and blazers. But if you’re traveling in September when the temps are higher, a chunky knit sweater may be all you need.
A popular faux leather jacket is the Levi’s moto. It’s stylish yet has a streamlined design that goes well with any bottoms you throw at it.
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Columbia Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket
Be sure to check the weather forecast leading up to your trip, too! If it looks like it may rain, a packable rain` jacket or trench coat is the way to go. Make sure it has a protective hood so you can stay hands-free without an umbrella.
Shoes for Fall
Come fall, you’ll see plenty of boots around Lisbon, so it’s the perfect time of year to pack your trusty leather boots that offer great support and excellent traction for the hilly roads. If you want to keep your packing list as minimal as possible, moto boots, combat boots, and ankle boots are fantastic choices, as they’re great for sightseeing and can also be dressed up at night.
Many readers have also recommended Chelsea boots for Lisbon, and these Sorel Chelsea boots have the perfect mix of practicality and style. The chunky lug soles give them a sturdy feel and traction on wet streets, as well as an edgy look that’s perfect for Portugal’s trendy capital.
Readers also recommend tennis shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing, especially ones that offer extra cushioning and stability.
Temperature-regulating merino wool construction, a waterproof exterior, and tons of comfort make these Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles a fantastic choice for Lisbon’s fickle fall weather. Readers absolutely adore these sneakers!
Turtleneck | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Longsleeve | Coat | Jeans | Jacket | Leggings | Scarf | Beanie | Boots 1 | Boots 2
What to Wear in Lisbon in Winter (December, January, February)?
Winter in Lisbon in cold but not freezing, with an average daytime temp of 60 F and nights dropping to around 50 F. You’ll likely see a few days of rain depending on the timing of your trip, too, so keep checking that weather forecast to plan accordingly, and be sure to pack a waterproof layer just in case.
Start by reading these Europe packing tips for winter:
- Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
- How to Pack for Cold Weather
- How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
- The Best Travel Shoes for Winter
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Baby Alpaca-Wool Turtleneck
Tops for Winter
Sweaters are the best tops for your Lisbon packing list for winter, so pack a few cashmere, merino wool, or alpaca sweaters. These fabrics are great because they’re lightweight and breathable yet super warm and easy to layer with.
If you tend to run cold, bring a long-sleeve t-shirt or even a thermal to layer underneath. Turtleneck sweaters are extra warming, too.
Nothing is more classic, versatile, and perfect for winter than this cute turtleneck from Quince is made from a soft and dreamy alpaca wool. This simple statement piece will definitely be an item you reach for again and again during your travels!
Shop XS-3X: Wool& Landmark Cardigan
Think about cardigans for winter, which make great layering pieces. like this merino wool piece from Wool&. It’s cute, but also fashionable enough to bring to Lisbon. This open cardigan is comfy and would look so cute paired with a winter skirt and knee high boots.
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx Faux Leather Leggings
Bottoms for Winter
Luckily, it doesn’t get too freezing in Lisbon, and you’ll be keeping relatively warm with all the walking, so you can skip the heavyweight winter pants and instead opt for lightweight yet cozy options like ponte pants and faux leather leggings. These pants are warm, stretchy, and great for walking around in, but still look really polished!
It doesn’t get more Lisbon-ready than these Spanx faux leather leggings. Readers adore these functional yet sleek pants for their astounding comfort hidden beneath a dressy look.
Shop Sizes 10-18: Kut from The Kloth Meg Fab Ab High Waist Wide Leg Jeans
Jeans are, of course, a fantastic winter staple, too. And since wide leg pants are the go-to style all around Europe, you may want to consider adding this stylish silhouette to your Lisbon capsule wardrobe. Wide leg jeans are super comfortable, too!
Pack a pair of fleece-lined leggings for days when you want to be a bit more casual.
Shop Sizes XS-XL: prAna Milani V-Neck Dress
Dresses for Winter
While it doesn’t get crazy cold in Lisbon, you still want to get coverage just in case. That’s where long sleeve dresses or winter dresses come in. Usually made of a knit material, they look and feel great worn solo or layered with a trench coat or a faux leather jacket.
That’s why the prAna Milani dress is so popular. It’s a wool blend that’s soft, comfy, and easy to move itn. Would look lovely with long boots or chunky sole sneakers.
Shop Sizes S-3X: London Fog Plus-Size Double Breasted Peacoat with Scarf
Jackets for Winter
Lightweight down jackets are perfect for winter in Lisbon. Cozy rain jackets and wool coats are also great options.
Readers love how cozy yet light this London Fog wool coat is. It’s super warm, has a cute, flattering look, and is at a good price point!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: 32 Degrees 3/4 Ultra-Light Down Jacket
Because rain is always a possibility in the winter, a protective, water repellent coat like this reader-favorite from 32 Degrees is another solid option for Lisbon. It’s slim but insulated, so you’ll be toasty warm in it without needing to add a ton of layers underneath. Plus, the design is simple yet sleek!
Naturalizer Rena Knee High Riding Boot
Boots for Winter
Waterproof leather boots are the best option for winter in Lisbon, as they’ll keep your feet warm and dry and offer great traction for the slick streets in case it rains. Knee-high boots work great with leggings and slim-cut pants. If you’re into wide-leg pants, opt for chic ankle booties.
Both robust and elegant, these Naturalizer Rena knee-high boots are a great pick. From the cushioned footbed and the stretchy gore in the calf to the waterproof leather and luxe look, these boots will have you strutting around Lisbon with comfort and confidence.
Blondo Waterproof Dagger Fashion Boot
The Blondo Dagger ankle boots are gorgeous and ultra-durable, so they can handle tons of hardcore walking around the bumpy cobblestone streets of Lisbon and come out looking just as lovely as before. And your feet will be super happy in them! They’re also waterproof, sturdy, and slip-resistant.
Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage
Best Luggage for Lisbon
So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your packing list for Lisbon and created a solid capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for your trip?
There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Europe, including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the cobblestone streets, and long flights of stairs.
If you want a softside option, the ultimate reader favorite brand is Travelpro. Their Platinum Elite soft luggage 20” has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, a USB port, can even hold a laptop, and is expandable.
Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of these top brands.
If you’re looking for a hardside pick, users rave about the July 21”carry on. It’s so easy to maneuver, it has a telescoping handle, amazingly easy wheels to navigate airports and airplane aisles, and is highly popular for Europe, being able to deal with the cobblestone streets!
One user said she took it on a 10-day European adventure, and it held up.
WANDF 18″ Foldable Travel Duffle Bag
For an alternate European carry on size bag, a backpack is always a good option too for anyone who prefers to travel hands-free. Learn how to choose the best travel backpack.
A travel tip for souvenir shopping in Lisbon is to bring a packable duffle bag to store all your goodies. Readers swear by the Wandf packable duffle and say it’s so easy to transport and is useful for other things like hauling laundry, not just gifts or souvenirs.
Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes
Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes, which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, while keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free. Check out this video on how to organize using packing cubes, it’s incredibly easy!
Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines’ individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.
If you want more resources on what type of suitcase to choose for Lisbon, start here:
- Best lightweight luggage under 5 lbs
- Best Hardside Luggage
- Best Softside Luggage
- Find the Best Carry On Suitcase to Suit Your Trip
- Best International Carry On Luggage
- Best Expandable Luggage That’s Lightweight
- Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?
Best Purse or Day Bag for Lisbon
If you’ll be out and about all day and want to make sure you have all the essentials on you, opt for a backpack! It should be compact and comfy to carry yet nice and roomy for all of your things.
While Lisbon is a very safe city, there’s still a risk of pickpocketing in crowded or touristy areas, so you may want to choose an anti-theft backpack that no one can get into, especially because the zippers are out of sight.
The Travelon Classic backpack is a cute and secure option with tons of anti-theft features as well as excellent organization, and durable fabric. Readers adore it!
If you want to travel light, a crossbody purse is another great sightseeing bag for Lisbon. Crossbodies are secure and comfortable, and your belongings will always be within reach.
Luxurious yet practical, this Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody is a popular travel purse that offers excellent organization and versatility. This beauty will securely hold a day’s necessities, feel light and comfortable to carry, and look great with both casual and dressy ensembles.
Travelon’s Classic Messenger bag is another go-to with many readers, loved for it’s anti-theft features and sleek, simple look.
Bandolier Emma Pebble Leather Crossbody
Alternatively, you could also opt for a sling bag or fanny pack, and if you want to have your phone ready to take pics, readers recommend crossbody phone purses, such as the Bandolier Emma crossbody phone purse. It’s sleek, can hold cards in the back, and is super practical to keep your phone secure while you snap photos.
Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet
Safety in Lisbon
Even though Lisbon is a fairly safe city, pickpocketing can still happen, so it’s wise to be prepared and vigilant.
Be cautious about where you stash your cash; one smart way to hide cash or cards is by wearing clothing that has hidden pockets and secure zippers. Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it.
Add items like the Secret Bra Wallet and underwear with pockets to your packing list. You could also buy clothing with hidden pockets to hide valuables even deeper!
Be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the contents fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out this post about anti theft purses.
What to Do in Lisbon
There’s no shortage of cool things to check out in Lisbon, from cafes and restaurants to boutiques and near-by beaches. Some favorite must-see spots include:
Barrio Alto – A bohemian neighborhood located atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, full of beautiful churches and cobblestone streets to explore. Here, you’ll also find tons of eateries, vintage boutiques, and nightlife.
The District of Belem – A short drive (or tram ride) from Lisbon’s city center, Belem is located alongside the Targus River and is associated with Lisbon’s seafaring history.
In this area, check out the stunning Tower of Belem and sample some of the best Patel de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) at the Pastéis de Belem. Trust us, it’s worth the wait in line!
Sintra – No trip to Lisbon would be complete without a day trip (or multi-day trip) to Sintra. Sintra has amazing castles, palaces, parks, and gardens, and it’s no wonder this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are many options for uphill climbs in Sintra, including the walk along the wall of the Castle of Moors. Today would be a good day for some active pants, but since you’ll be visiting interior castles, you’ll want something that is not so distinctively active.
Tip: If you are worried about theft, add items like a money belt or Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet to your packing list.
What are your tips on what to wear in Lisbon? Share in the comments below!
For more on what to wear in Europe, please read:
- What to Wear in Portugal for Multiple Cities: Complete Guide
- What to Pack for Spain
- What to Wear in Paris
- What to Wear in Italy Year Round
Suggested travel resources:
- Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
- Lonely Planet Pocket Lisbon (Travel Guide)
- Travel Shoes for Europe
- The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
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Hoping to go to Lisbon for Christmas!
One my first international After starting to read TFG and all the tips, and I couldn’t be happier! I was able to do only carry-on and this was a total shock to me. Now, I’m investigating a trip to Lisbon in the spring and excited to see all this information laid out here to help me. Thank you for all your information!
What should I expect for temperature in October in Portugal? Lisbon,Dintra,Porto
Hi Cheryl, the best advice is to check the weather forecast closer to your departure date to ensure that you have the most appropriate clothing and shoes packed.
We also have more tips for packing for this time of year here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/packing-for-europe-in-fall/
To get the best advice for packing for that time of year, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their advice and experiences.
Have an amazing time!
I am going to Portugal, including the island of Madeira, April 12-27. Should I pack more skinny jeans, loose fitting pants or dresses/skirts. I tried to check the weather and it said between 60’s-70’s, even on Madeira, which I thought would be warmer. I would appreciate any guidance as I’m kind of confused about what to pack at this point. We will be staying in fairly upscale accommodations.
Many thanks!
Hi Jenny, thank you for your comment! Check the weather forecast near the time that you travel. Have a look at this article for some more ideas: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-portugal/
Also this is a helpful guide that explains more about how to use our packing lists: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-the-travel-fashion-girl-packing-lists-and-guides/
Have a great trip! 🙂