4 Days in Lisbon: From Mosteiro dos Jerónimos to Casa de Linhares

As part of the Schengen Area, Portugal allows citizens from the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada to enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A passport valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay is required. Citizens from India will need to apply for a Schengen visa in advance. Always confirm specific requirements with your country's foreign office or the Portuguese embassy/consulate.

The easiest and cheapest way is by Metro (Red Line), which connects directly from the airport to central Lisbon. A single journey costs €1.50 with a reusable Viva Viagem card (€0.50). Aerobus services also connect the airport to various city points for around €4. Taxis, Bolt, and Uber are readily available, typically costing €10-€20 depending on your destination and traffic.

Lisbon is generally safe, but like any major European city, vigilance is key. Pickpocketing is the most common crime, especially on crowded trams (like Tram 28), the Metro, and in busy tourist areas such as Alfama and Baixa-Chiado. Solo female travelers should avoid walking alone late at night in certain areas like Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodre, opting for ride-hailing services. Always be aware of your drink in nightclubs to prevent spiking. Overall, with common-sense precautions, it is a very welcoming city.

Lisbon's seven hills make walking a workout. The most efficient way to get around is using the comprehensive public transport network: Metro, trams, buses, and funiculars (Elevador da Bica, Lavra, Glória). The Viva Viagem card is essential for this. For longer distances or to avoid steep climbs, ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber are convenient and affordable alternatives.

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most restaurants, shops, and larger establishments, it's advisable to carry some Euro cash (€20-€50). Smaller cafes, local markets, street vendors, and some traditional tascas may be cash-only. Having small denominations is also useful for tips or public toilets.

Tipping is not obligatory but is a gesture of appreciation for good service. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip for attentive service is common. For taxi drivers, simply rounding up the fare to the nearest Euro is customary. In cafes and bars, leaving a few spare coins is a polite gesture. Service charges are typically not included on the bill.

Given Lisbon's hilly, cobbled streets, comfortable walking shoes with good grip are a must. Pack layered clothing, as temperatures can vary throughout the day, and a light jacket or cardigan for evenings, especially due to Atlantic winds. A compact umbrella or light rain jacket is recommended, as sudden showers can occur, particularly outside of summer. During summer, lightweight, breathable fabrics and sun protection are essential.

You can purchase local prepaid SIM cards from major Portuguese providers like MEO, NOS, or Vodafone upon arrival at Lisbon Airport or in city center stores. These typically offer good 4G/5G coverage and various data plans for €15-€30. Alternatively, consider an eSIM for convenience, though prices might vary. Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport and in most accommodation and dining establishments.