What to do in Lisbon around Baixa

What to do in Lisbon around Baixa

If you are wondering what to do in Lisbon around Baixa, here are some ideas you can have. Baixa means “downtown” and it used to be the commercial center of the city, so there is a lot you can explore in this area! I’m leaving you some suggestions of things to do in Baixa I know you’ll enjoy! If you’d like us to guide you through Baixa, check out our private tours in Lisbon here.

If you’re visiting Lisbon and have no idea what to do in Lisbon around Baixa, read on and find out some of our suggestions to enjoy this area as much as you can!

Explore the Lisbon streets

One of the best things to do in Baixa in Lisbon is to explore the streets filled with traditional shops. Having been the center of commerce and trade, streets are named after the main professions that occupied them: Rua do Ouro (Gold street) was full of goldsmiths, Rua da Prata (Silver street) was where you’d find silver works and at Rua dos Sapateiros (Shoemaker’s street) you’d be able to buy the latest trend in shoe wear. If you keep an eye out for it, you’ll still find some streets are mainly occupied by specific trades, reflecting the trade center of Lisbon.

Visit the MUDE

The second thing we suggest you to do in Baixa in Lisbon is to visit MUDE: the Museum of Design and Fashion</strong. Held in the former headquarters of an important bank, this museum guides you through the evolution of design from old times to the decades of the 20th century. It is very popular among tourists and locals. It definitely is a great treat for those of you who are into design! However, you should know that the museum is closed at the moment, because it is under construction. It will reopen its doors during the summer of 2018!

Go up the Arch of Rua Augusta

Another thing to do in Baixa in Lisbon is to go up the Arch of Rua Augusta. This Arch is a victory arch whose construction was stalled as the new queen did not approve of it, which meant the center of Lisbon took one more reign to be finished than what was initially planned. This arch is beautiful and you can find historical figures in its outline and decoration. Then, you can also go up the arch and enjoy a breathtaking view of Lisbon and the Praça do Comércio. If you’ve got a sunset to spare, I recommend you spend it here.

Walk the Praça do Comércio

If you are in Lisbon visiting Baixa, one of the must-visit places is Praça do Comércio, which is also known as Terreiro do Paço. This is where the royal family used to live and also where the worldwide trade used to happen, hence the two names (Terreiro do Paço means “Yard of the Palace” and Praça do Comércio means “Commerce Square”). It was there that the Lisbon harbor received all the spices and raw materials from colonies all over the world. The foundations of the trade were on the streets of Baixa.

Learn more about Lisbon at the Lisbon Story Center

This museum in Baixa of Lisbon is one thing you must do if you’re here. Located in Terreiro do Paço, the Lisbon Story Center is an interactive museum that shows the history of Lisbon, including the famous earthquake that destroyed this part of the city in 1755. It’s a great way to get an overview of the city’s history and when you join us in our tour of Alfama, you’ll see how history played itself.

Hop on the Elevador de Santa Justa

Another thing to do in Baixa in Lisbon is to go up (or down) the Santa Justa Elevator. This elevator was built in the early 1900’s as a public transportation that helped locals go from Baixa (downtown) up to Chiado (uphill) with less effort. Now, it has become very popular among visitors as it offers a great view of the city. When going up to visit Chiado, take the opportunity to go up this historical elevator.

Have a stunning overview of Baixa at Castle of St. George

The last thing to do in Baixa in Lisbon is to visit the Castle of Saint George. You can now take two elevators from downtown (Baixa) straight up to the Castle of Saint George. This castle is no longer in the Baixa area of Lisbon, so why are we recommending it? Because from there, you can have an overview of Baixa that you don’t get from the other viewing points. My final suggestion is that you go up to the castle to see all the other places you’ve visited in Baixa and then join us to discover Alfama, which is a traditional neighborhood, completely different from Baixa that will make you fall in love with Lisbon. In case, you managed not to fall in love with it yet. Learn more about this tour here.

You now know what to do around Baixa in Lisbon! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article and that it has been useful! Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need further information about anything. There’s plenty of things to do, to visit, and to see around Baixa in Lisbon. You will surely discover a lot about the city while walking and experiencing all it has to offer! See you in Lisbon!