Top 5 Things to Do in Lisbon After Your Boat Tour

The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Lisbon Once You Step Off the Boat Tour

You've just experienced the magic of Lisbon from the water aboard a LisbonFlow boat tour on the Tagus River. The gentle breeze, golden light, and iconic skyline have already made your day unforgettable — but the adventure doesn't have to stop there.

Lisbon is a city that rewards exploration. With its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class cuisine, there's so much to discover within walking distance (or a quick ride) from your disembarkation point.

In this complete guide, we’ll show you the Top 5 Things to Do in Lisbon after your river cruise, with bonus tips, local favorites, and hidden gems. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this list will help you make the most of your time in Portugal’s capital.

1. Explore the Monuments of Belém – Where History Meets the Horizon

After your boat tour with LisbonFlow you may hop on the traino from Cais do Sodre to Belém. There, you’re in the heart of Lisbon’s Age of Discoveries. This riverside district is packed with some of the most important monuments in Portuguese history — and they’re just minutes away on foot.

Torre de Belém

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Torre de Belém (Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortress) was built in the 16th century as a defense point on the river. Its Manueline architecture, maritime symbolism, and dramatic setting make it one of Lisbon’s top photo spots.

What to do:

• Climb the tower for panoramic views
• Photograph the battlements at sunset

Learn about Lisbon’s maritime defense history

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

This striking monument pays homage to Portugal’s great explorers. Shaped like a ship’s prow, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to explorers) features 33 carved figures, including Prince Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama.

Pro tip: Climb to the top for one of the best views of the river and city.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

One of the most magnificent monasteries in Europe, the Jerónimos Monastery is a masterpiece of Gothic and Manueline styles. It's the final resting place of Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões.

Don't miss:

• The cloisters, known for their intricate stonework
• The tomb of Vasco da Gama
• The nearby Museu de Marinha showcasing Portugal’s naval past

2. Treat Yourself to the Original Pastel de Nata at Pastéis de Belém

You haven’t truly been to Lisbon until you’ve tasted a Pastel de Nata — and there’s no better place than the legendary Pastéis de Belém.

Since 1837, this bakery has been serving the custard tart made from the original secret recipe developed by monks at the nearby monastery. The result? A warm, flaky, creamy masterpiece that locals and tourists line up for daily.

What to do:

• Order at least two (trust us!)
• Pair with a strong “bica” (Portuguese espresso)
• Take a dozen home in a signature blue box

Insider tip: Skip the takeaway line and head to the back for table service. The interior is massive and often less crowded than the queue suggests.

3. Visit MAAT – The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

Lisbon has always blended history with innovation. Nowhere is that clearer than at the MAAT, a sleek, modern cultural hub right on the river.

Its futuristic architecture curves like a wave above the water. Inside, rotating exhibitions explore themes like climate, sustainability, media, and modern design.

Why visit after a boat tour?

• You’re already in the area
• The rooftop is a perfect sunset photo spot
• It balances your historical tour with a dose of cutting-edge culture

Best for: Art lovers, architects, tech enthusiasts, families

4. Take a Ride into Alfama – Lisbon’s Oldest Neighborhood

From Terreiro de Paço walk uphill into Alfama — the soul of the city.

Alfama survived the 1755 earthquake and still retains its medieval layout. Here, laundry hangs between buildings, Fado music echoes from doorways, and locals greet each other in narrow cobblestone alleys.

Fado & Food

Try dinner at a traditional Fado restaurant like Clube de Fado or Sr. Fado, where you’ll hear the emotional voice of Lisbon’s musical soul.

Miradouros (Viewpoints)

• Miradouro de Santa Luzia: A tiled terrace overlooking Alfama, an iconic postcard view of rooftops and the river

Lisbon Cathedral & Fado Museum

• Sé de Lisboa: The city’s oldest church, with Romanesque origins
• Museu do Fado: Learn the story of Portugal’s most emotional music genre

5. Chill at Ribeira das Naus or Time Out Market Lisboa

Ribeira das Naus

End your day at Ribeira das Naus, the scenic promenade between Cais do Sodré and Praça do Comércio. It’s where locals and tourists gather to relax, drink, and enjoy the view.

This riverside promenade is where 18th-century ships were built — today it’s a place to relax on the grass, enjoy a drink from the kiosk, and watch the sun set behind the Ponte 25 de Abril.

Perfect for:

• Relaxing with locals
• Taking riverside selfies
• People-watching and street music

Grab a drink from a kiosk or pack a picnic and find a spot on the grass or by the river wall. As the sun sets, you’ll see the sky glow pink and gold, the bridge silhouette against the horizon, and the lights of Lisbon begin to twinkle.

Don’t miss:

• Live music from street performers
• The view of the Colunas do Terreiro do Paço

Watching ferries crossing the river

Time Out Market Lisboa

Just a few minutes from Cais do Sodré, this modern food hall Time Out Market Lisboa brings together some of Portugal’s best chefs and restaurants. It’s ideal if you’re hungry after your tour and want a taste of everything.

Highlights:

• Time-Out Market Lisboa - Michelin-starred chef stalls
• Portuguese wines, cocktails, and ginjinha
• Desserts, sushi, seafood, burgers — all under one roof

Bonus Ideas – Keep the Flow Going

If you still have time or want to plan a full day, here are more activities and spots within easy reach:

Book Another LisbonFlow Tour

• Sunset River Cruise
• Private Charter for celebrations or VIP groups
• Leader-Ship Programme for team building and corporate events

Visit the Fragata D. Fernando II e Glória

On the south side of the river, this beautifully restored 19th-century warship turned museum offers insight into Portugal’s naval legacy. A must for maritime history lovers., the last sailing warship of the Portuguese Navy. A hidden gem with rich naval history.

LX Factory

A trendy cultural and creative space in Alcântara LX Factory is full of design shops, rooftop bars, art murals, and the famous Ler Devagar bookstore.

Start Your LisbonFlow Day Right — And End It Even Better

Lisbon is a city best experienced through layers: from the water, from the street, and from the table. A boat tour with LisbonFlow Boat Tour gives you the best possible start — scenic, relaxed, and full of meaning.

But what you do afterward can elevate your day into something truly memorable. Whether you head to Belém’s monuments, sip wine by the river, or get lost in Alfama’s alleys, Lisbon will reward your curiosity.

Want to plan your full-day itinerary with our help?
Contact us at info@lisbonflow.com or WhatsApp +351 963 048 000
Or book your next tour now.