If you’re planning to spend time in Lisbon, Portugal, you may already know that riding the historic Tram 28, eating a pastel de nata (traditional egg custard tart) in Belém, and wandering the fado-filled alleys of Alfama rank among the most popular tourist activities.

However, as seasoned travelers know, tourist attractions rarely offer an authentic experience of a destination’s local culture. If you’re looking to go beyond the ordinary during your next free afternoon in Lisbon (perhaps on Day 3 of our Discovering Portugal, Across Spain and Portugal or Paradores & Pousadas small group tours), see what we recommend in our suggested itinerary below.

25 de Abril Bridge

The Objective: A Slow, Easy Rhythm

Afternoons are for leisure. Lisbon locals tend to seek out easygoing social activities away from the hustle and bustle of busier areas in the city center. The goal is to take things slow and enjoy the journey – along with every treat that may come along the way.

Campo de Ourique. Source: “Vista frontal do Predio ‘A Tentadora” na rua Saraiva de Carvalho, Lisboa” by Camilla Morselli (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Where to Go: Campo de Ourique

To escape the crowds, head to Campo de Ourique, the “village within the city” located in the historic city center. This residential neighborhood is one of the quietest in Lisbon and offers a true perspective of a local’s day-to-day life. What it lacks in big-name attractions it makes up for in serene tree-lined streets, specialty boutiques, delightful cafes, lively markets, and plenty of quiet corners to hide away in.

Getting there is easy: It’s the last stop on Trams 25 and 28.

View of the 25 de Abril Bridge from Cemitério dos Prazeres

What to Do: Shopping, Treats, and Relaxation

If you take Tram 28, you’ll get off right at Cemitério dos Prazeres. Stretch your legs after your tram ride by strolling through this historic cemetery, one of the world’s most beautiful burial grounds, and marveling at the unique mausoleums. You’ll also be treated to a “secret” view of downtown Lisbon, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the Tagus River.

Mercado de Campo de Ourique. Source: “Campo de Ourique Market” by Mercado de Campo de Ourique (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Then, head down bustling Rua Saraiva Carvalho to the local covered marketplace, Mercado de Campo de Ourique – a more authentic version of Lisbon’s popular Time Out Market. Here, you can pick up ingredients for a picnic (fresh produce, cheeses, wines, pastries, and more), or grab a table to enjoy a few petiscos (Portuguese tapas). Take your time – there’s plenty to explore.

Rua Ferreira Borges. Source: “Rua Ferreira Borges em 2025” by Threeohsix (CC BY-SA 4.0)

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll down Rua Ferreira Borges, Campo de Ourique’s pedestrian shopping street. Small shops, cafes, bars, and boutiques line the cobblestone road, offering all manner of handmade keepsakes, traditional crafts, unique apparel, gourmet foods, and delicious treats – a perfect place for souvenir shopping.

Example of one of Lisbon’s iconic quiosques. Source: “Quiosque do Refresco” by F Delventhal (CC BY 2.0)

Jardim da Parada, a park in the heart of the community, offers another opportunity to slow down and take part in a favorite local activity: people-watching, accompanied by a drink from one of Lisbon’s iconic quiosques (open-air, Art Deco street kiosks found in parks and squares throughout the city). Or, head a block over to Pastelaria Aloma for a pick-me-up of bica (espresso) and award-winning pastel de natas (traditional egg custard tart).

Lisbon’s sunsets are famously colorful and bathe the city in orange and pink light.

To finish your day, catch the sunset at a rooftop bar (The V Rooftop Bar is a cozy local favorite) or at the panoramic observation deck atop the Amoreiras shopping complex (for a small fee).

Looking for more insight about Lisbon? Check out our Insider’s Guide to Lisbon for detailed information on the best attractions, neighborhoods, foods, and more to enjoy while in this celebrated destination.