Common Tourist Mistakes

Avoid these tourist mistakes:

• Eating right next to major landmarks (you’ll often pay more for lower quality food)

• Not checking opening times (many local spots close mid-afternoon, typically between lunch and dinner)

• Only sticking to “famous” spots instead of exploring local tascas

• Not carrying cash – most places accept card, but some small, traditional spots are cash only

• Taking Tram 28 at peak times – it gets extremely crowded and is often more of a tourist experience than a practical way to get around

• Eating too late – popular local spots fill up quickly, especially between 1–2pm for lunch and 8pm+ for dinner

• Ignoring the dish of the day (prato do dia) – this is often the best value and most authentic option on the menu

Tip: some of the best meals in Lisbon come from small, unassuming places with short menus and lots of locals – that’s exactly what we’ve focused on in this guide.