Lisbon, the coastal capital city of Portugal, is famed for its picturesque views, historic sites, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. As a top destination in Europe, it attracts millions of tourists each year. However, as with any popular tourist location, there are certain pitfalls that can make your visit less enjoyable or culturally insensitive. Here’s a guide to what not to do in Lisbon to ensure you have the best experience while respecting the local culture and environment.
### 1. Don’t Overlook Local Etiquette
When visiting Lisbon—or any part of Portugal—it’s important to respect local customs and practices. For example:
– **Greet people properly**: A simple “Bom dia” (Good morning), “Boa tarde” (Good afternoon), or “Boa noite” (Good evening) can go a long way.
– **Be polite**: Say “por favor” (please) and “obrigado” (thank you). Politeness is highly valued in Portuguese culture.
– **Respect quiet times**: Particularly in residential areas, try to keep noise levels down in the late evenings.
### 2. Avoid Eating Only at Tourist Traps
Although dining by the riverside or in the main squares might seem appealing, these places often do not offer the most authentic or best-value dining experiences. Instead:
– **Explore local eateries**: Venture into smaller streets and away from main tourist spots to find cafes and restaurants frequented by locals.
– **Try traditional dishes**: Sample classic Portuguese dishes like Bacalhau a Bras (cod with onions and potatoes), Caldo Verde (kale soup), or Pastéis de Nata for dessert.
### 3. Don’t Skip the Public Transport Etiquette
Lisbon’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient. When using it:
– **Validate your ticket**: Always validate your ticket before entering metro stations or on boarding trams and buses.
– **Offer your seat**: It’s considerate to offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
– **Watch out for pickpockets**, especially on trams like the iconic Tram 28.
### 4. Don’t Disregard Pickpocketing
Like many bustling tourist cities, Lisbon has its fair share of pickpockets particularly in crowded areas such as tram lines, popular tourist spots like Belém Tower or Santa Justa Lift and during festival seasons.
– **Be cautious with your belongings**: Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
### 5. Avoid Renting Cars for City Travel
While renting a car might be tempting for exploring nearby regions like Sintra or Cascais:
– **Use public transport within Lisbon**: The city’s narrow lanes and limited parking make driving stressful. Public transport is generally faster.
### 6. Don’t Just Visit Mainstream Sites
Lisbon is rich with history beyond Jerónimos Monastery and São Jorge Castle:
– **Dive into lesser-known areas**: Visit neighborhoods like Graça or Campo de Ourique to see everyday Lisbon life.
– **Check out non-touristy museums and galleries** for a deeper understanding of Portugal’s art and history.
### 7. Don’t Forget Sustainable Tourism Practices
Respect Lisbon’s environment by maintaining sustainable tourism practices:
– **Avoid littering**; always find a trash bin for your garbage.
– **Use water sparingly**, especially during hot summer months when water levels can be low.
### 8. Don’t Neglect Nightlife Etiquette
While Lisbon boasts a vibrant nightlife scene:
– **Drink responsibly**
– Be aware of noise levels late at night; remember that residential areas surround many nightlife hubs.
By avoiding these common missteps during your stay in Lisbon, you’ll not only enjoy a more fulfilling travel experience but will also show respect towards the city’s culture, environment, and residents—enhancing interactions with locals who are generally warm-hearted and welcoming towards respectful visitors!