What to Do in Lisbon When it Rains: The 17 Best Attractions 2023
Are you wondering what to do in Lisbon when it rains?
Lisbon is the vibrant capital of Portugal and a city with many attractions, activities, and experiences to offer tourists. Don’t let wet weather ruin your trip! There are still plenty of interesting things to see in Lisbon even during wetter days. From exploring incredible palaces to wine tasting, bookshops, fado, and more, here are 17 of the best things to see in Lisbon on a rainy day. So grab an umbrella and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer!
Planning Your Trip? Use our Favorite Resources!
🏨 Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com
🚗 Car Rental: We recommend Discover Cars
✈ Travel Insurance: We recommend SafetyWing
🔴 Hot Tip! If you decide to visit more than one of the listed activities below, you’ll probably find that the Lisbon Card will be worth your while since it gives you free public transport around Lisbon as well as entrance and discounted rates to 38 Lisbon attractions. Check it out and see if it’s right for you!
What to Do in Lisbon When it Rains: The 17 Best Lisbon Attractions
1. Wine Tasting
Rainy days don’t have to be dull in Lisbon! One of the most enjoyable activities you can do in Lisbon when it rains is a wine-tasting tour. With over 250 different grape varieties and an extensive history of winemaking, Portugal has an abundance of wines to offer. Let an experienced guide take you on a journey through the history and complexity of Portuguese wines, their regions and wine’s place in Portuguese culture and history.
You can take a full-day wine tasting tour from Lisbon which visits 3 different cellars in Setubal, a wine-growing region slightly south of greater Lisbon. It allows guests to taste 10 different wines along with regional bread and cheeses and other local favorites. Alternatively, you can start your evening early with a 1-hour tasting right before dinner at one of the wine-tasting bars in town. From the Wine is a well-known wine-tasting bar that offers an exceptional experience for a great price!
✅ Check out the full day tour to 3 different cellars in Setubal here.
✅ Check out the before-dinner wine tasting at From the Vine here.
2. Visit an Art Museum
Museums in Lisbon are the perfect activity for a rainy day. From ancient artifacts to modern art, there is something for everyone to discover and explore. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chiado is an absolute must-see with its stunning art displays from many prominent Portuguese artists. You can also enjoy the vast collections of Religious Art at Sao Roque Museum if that’s your thing, or the expansive archeological exhibitions at the Lisbon Archeology Museum in Belem.
If you’re into modern art, the Gulbenkian Art Museum is a great place to learn about contemporary and classic works from around the world. No matter what your interest, there are plenty of fascinating museums for everyone to explore in Lisbon!
Remember that many museums and attractions in Lisbon are discounted or completely free if you buy the Lisbon Card. If you’ve decided it’s not worth your while, you can buy your tickets in advance.
🔴 Hot Tip! The Gulbenkian Museum is free every Sunday after 2 pm!
The Lisbon Archeology Museum is unfortunately closed for renovations until 2025.
✅ Skip the line and get your entrance to the Gulbenkian Art Museum here.
3. See a Fado show
Fado is an essential experience for any tourists in Lisbon and should not be missed. It is a powerful representation of the Portuguese soul and culture, being deeply rooted in the local population for centuries. Since the early 19th century, this traditional style of song has captivated people with its melancholic lyrics sung passionately by performers in beautiful venues all around the city.
If you’re looking for a more intimate authentic experience, then Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto is an excellent choice. Here they put on Fado Vadio, where the cook will remove her apron for a few minutes to sing a song right after the gentleman at table 5 belts out his own rendition of a Lisbon fado classic. It is a more informal form of fado where people listen, converse, and join in when they want to.
Alternatively, if you’re up for something more melodramatic and formal, try the show at Maria da Mouraria in Chiado. Here patrons are expected to listen, and speaking is very rude, so watch yourself! No matter which route you take, make sure to catch a fado show before you leave Lisbon!
✅ Get your ticket early and skip the line at the Fado in Chiado Show here.
4. LX Factory
LXFactory is a must-visit for tourists in Lisbon looking to explore something unique. Located in Alcântara, LXFactory was once an old industrial factory and has since been converted into a buzzing creative hub for up-and-coming designers, artists, and just general expression of Lisbon’s alternative scene.
Music often plays from the impromptu open-air stages, while cafes and funky shops will absorb you for hours. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or take part in workshops like ceramics and jewelry making. LXFactory is full of surprises and definitely worth a stop on a rainy day!
5. Go shopping at some of the great malls
Lisbon is home to some of the greatest shopping malls in Portugal, with Vasco da Gama, Amoreira, and Colombo being the most popular. These three shopping centers offer a wide variety of stores and activities that can be enjoyed by all types of shoppers, from budget-minded bargain hunters to luxury aficionados.
Each mall has a huge selection of popular fashion brands, as well as delicious restaurants and cafes. All 3 boast their own cinema and are easily accessible by metro. Whether you’re looking to pick up souvenirs or just window shop, these malls are sure to keep you busy for hours!
6. The Jeronimo Monastery
The Jeronimo Monastery in Belem is one of the most remarkable attractions in Lisbon, and a not to be missed. Located in the monument-rich area of Belem, the monastery has been standing as a glorious landmark since its construction was completed in 1501. Its incredible architecture will take your breath away with its grandiose proportions, ornate carvings, and stunning stained glass windows.
Furthermore, its historical significance is immense – it was the site where Vasco da Gama’s remains were brought from India in 1524 after his death at sea. This fantastic monument is definitely worth the lineup at the door and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
🔴 Hot Tip! The Jeronimo Monastery is free for residents the first Sunday of every month, and free if you’ve got the Lisbon Card!
✅ Skip the line and buy your entrance to Jeronimo Monastery here.
7. The Time out Market
The Time Out Market in Cais de Sodre is an excellent place for tourists to have lunch or dinner on a rainy day. Originally Lisbon’s main market, it was refurbished and reopened as a gourmet eatery with incredible panache at very reasonable prices in 2014. Featuring some of the best restaurants in town, it offers visitors an exciting culinary experience like no other.
From traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisines from around the world, there’s something for everyone here! In addition to great food, the atmosphere is vibrant and lively, making it the perfect spot for socializing and enjoying time with friends or family on a rainy day.
8. Take Tram 28 around town
Tram 28 is one of the most emblematic Lisbon attractions, taking tourists through the narrow streets of Anjos, Graca, and Alfama, through the Baixa, up to Chiado, and along Calçada da Estrela – some of the most iconic parts of the city.
This classic tram ride has been around since the 1930s and is still the favorite way for locals to get around. It’s a great way to explore the city, as you can hop on and off whenever you like – plus it costs only €3.50 per ride! Make sure to grab your ticket before hopping on, as tickets are not sold on board. Enjoy!
🔴 Hot Tip! Everybody and their monkey’s uncle wants to take Tram 28, so during high season it’s best to start a few stations past Martim Monis so you can actually get on!
9. Visit a Palace
Palacio de Ajuda is the perfect destination for tourists looking to enjoy a unique experience during their visit to Lisbon on a rainy day. Located in the Ajuda district of Lisbon, this magnificent palace was built in 1794 and has since been declared a National Monument.
The building is truly extraordinary, with its neoclassical style and exquisite furnishings. Inside you’ll be able to admire beautiful staterooms, salons, and chambers, as well as the grand dining hall – all of which are open to visitors. The palace grounds also boast stunning gardens with a multitude of trees and plants that can be admired from the terraces. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore a luxurious palace!
✅ Check out the Undiscovered Lisbon Food Tour
10. A Brasileira coffee shop
A visit to A Brasileira coffee shop in Chiado is an excellent option for a rainy day in Lisbon. This iconic cafe has been open since 1905 and continues to serve delicious coffee and other favorite Portuguese snacks. Inside, visitors can enjoy the historic art deco interior with elaborate high ceilings, as well as artwork from renowned local artists.
The terrace seating area is especially charming, with a bronze statue of Fernando Pessoa sitting at one of the tables – another reminder of this cafe’s history and importance in Lisbon culture. So come on down to A Brasileira for a coffee break between attractions – it’s a fun stop on your itinerary!
11. Check out the oldest bookshop in Europe
Bertrand bookshop in Chiado is an iconic landmark that tourists always enjoy. First established in 1732, it has been delighting visitors with its atmosphere and vast selection of books and periodicals for well over 300 years.
As the oldest bookshop in Europe, its interesting display windows with old books and low domed ceilings create an inviting, intriguing atmosphere. You can pop in quickly if you stop by A Brasileira since it’s across the way. This is a quick, free visit, but definitely worth it!
🔴 Top Tip!! Did you know that Portugal also has one of the oldest libraries in Europe?
Things to Do in Lisbon with Kids on a Rainy Day
Got kids in tow? Here is a great list of what to do in Lisbon when it rains that your kids will rave about.
12. Kid-friendly Museums
On a rainy day in Lisbon, children of all ages will be entertained and inspired by the fantastic array of fun and interesting museums on offer. The Pavilhao do Conhecimento in Parque das Naçoes is an interactive science center where kids can have fun exploring the world of technology, science and engineering – perfect for curious minds!
With its hands-on exhibits and engaging activities, this museum will keep kids and adults entranced for at least a few hours on a rainy afternoon. My son asks to go to this wonderful museum a few times every year to see the new temporary exhibits.
Museu dos Coches in Belem is another great museum to learn about the history of Portuguese carriages. It is one of the most popular museums in Lisbon and its collection is actually quite stunning! It’s my favorite on a rainy day!
✅ Get your ticket early and skip the line at Museu dos Coches here.
Meanwhile, Museu da Electricidade, also in Belem and the Communication Museum in Cais de Sodre are both perfect for budding inventors. The interactive exhibits will keep little fingers busy and inquiring minds occupied for at least a few hours while it rains down.
13. Kidzania Lisbon
Kidzania Lisbon is an incredible indoor theme park that offers a unique experience for families on a rainy day. It is designed for children between the ages of 4 and 15 and their parents, creating a kid-sized replica of a real city where children can play adult roles in an incredibly realistic environment.
This mesmerizing cityscape gives kids the opportunity to take part in various activities such as Piloting a plane, becoming firefighters, a pizzaiolo or a shopkeeper! Kidzania Lisbon is truly an incredible place that all children should experience at least once in their lifetime!
🔴 Hot Tip! Since it is one of the more expensive options on this list, I’d say it’s definitely worth the money for kids over the age of 6 who are starting to read. Definitely a fun one!
14. Visit the Planetarium
Families visiting Lisbon should make sure to visit the planetarium on a rainy day. Not only is it one of the best-reviewed family activities in Lisbon, but it also offers an immersive experience that will transport you and your children out of this world!
The Planetarium is located in Belem, and boasts interactive exhibits, 3D projections, educational films, and more – all designed to give visitors a unique insight into our universe. It’s especially great for kids as there are plenty of fun activities that can be enjoyed with them. So don’t let the rain keep you from exploring – head over to the Planetarium and experience something truly spectacular!
15. See the Oceanarium or Vasco da Gama Aquarium
On a rainy day in Lisbon, what better way to keep the kids entertained than with a visit to the Oceanarium in Parque das Naçoes or Aquarium de Vasco da Gama in Alges? Both are amazing attractions that offer an incredible undersea experience.
The Oceanarium boasts one of the largest collections of aquatic species in Europe, with more than 8,000 animals from 450 different species. It also houses the largest aquarium in Europe! Make sure to check out the sharks and the beautiful jellyfish!
✅ Get your tickets to the Lisbon Oceanarium here, and beat the lineup!
Open for the past 120 years, Aquarium de Vasco da Gama is an interesting gem with a charming old-world feel and a quaint cafe with excellent food. On top of educational exhibits and interactive displays, the Aquarium de Vasco da Gama is also home to a 4D cinema that makes marine life come alive!
Whether you’re a local or visiting Lisbon as a tourist, these two attractions get two thumbs up from families looking to keep little guys busy.
16. Visit an immersive experience
Tourists with older kids will have an absolute blast visiting either Quake, or an escape room in Lisbon. Quake is an immersive experience based on the 1755 earthquake that destroyed Lisbon. It takes participants through a journey that recreates the tragedy of the quake and its aftermath, allowing them to learn more about the history of the city.
✅ Get your ticket early and skip the line at Quake here.
Escape Hunt Lisbon is also an excellent choice for older kids, as it offers a movie-like feel to the experience. Participants are given an hour to solve innovative puzzles and mysteries as a team in order to escape the room! It’s definitely a great way to spend a rainy day as a family- your kids will be talking about it for days!
✅ Get your ticket early and skip the line at Escape Hunt Lisbon here.
17. Go to a Trampoline Park
JumpYard Lisboa is an amazing trampoline park that will guarantee a fantastic experience for families on a rainy day in Lisbon. There are loads of different activities available, from classic trampolines to zip lines, climbing walls, and tricky obstacle courses. Kids of all ages can have fun at JumpYard as they explore and develop their motor skills, and it’s also great for adults too!
Things to Do in Lisbon When it Rains FAQ
What is the rainiest month in Lisbon?
According to data from the Portuguese Institute of Meteorology, November is the rainiest month in Lisbon, with December coming in second place. This makes it the wettest period of the year in Lisbon, followed by January through March. Don’t forget your wellies!
Does it rain a lot in Lisbon Portugal?
Yes, it does rain a lot in Lisbon Portugal. The north of Portugal gets a lot more rain than the south, and the winter months tend to be a lot wetter and more cloudy than the dry summer months. Lisbon gets about 100 days of rain per year. Additionally, temperatures in Lisbon get quite cool in winter, around 5 to 10 degrees, and quite warm in summer, between 30 and 35 degrees in July and August.
Is Lisbon a walkable city?
Yes, Lisbon is a walkable city. The streets are usually quite wide and flat, making walking one of the best ways to explore the sights. Additionally, many Lisbon attractions are located within walking distance of each other so you can easily hop from place to place by using an Uber or public transport a few times per day.
Does Lisbon have a rainy season?
Yes, Lisbon does have a rainy season. The months of November to March tend to be the wettest period of the year in Lisbon, with temperatures dropping quite low and rainfall increasing substantially. Additionally, July and August are usually drier months with high temperatures. It is important to be prepared for rainy weather when visiting Lisbon, as it can often rain regardless of the time of year!
What part of Portugal gets the most rain?
The northern coast of Portugal, particularly the city of Porto, receives the most rainfall in Portugal. The region is known for its wet and mild climate. The rainiest months are November and December, but the summer months are nice and dry.
What to Do in Lisbon on a Rainy Day: The Wrap-Up
All in all, Lisbon is an incredible city to visit even when it rains! I hope our list of things to do in Lisbon when it rains has given you some interesting options Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or something more educational, there’s always something fun and interesting to do on a rainy day. Don’t let the weather stop you from exploring this beautiful city – use these tips to make sure your trip is full of adventure and unforgettable memories no matter what the forecast says!
