Lisbon Cathedral travel guide

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Introduction to Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon Cathedral is a renowned Catholic cathedral situated in Lisbon, Portugal. If you're ready to be spellbound and see for yourself why 24,891 people have rated this incredible sight an impressive rating of 4 out of 5 stars, this travel guide to Lisbon Cathedral is for you.

A visit to Lisbon Cathedral is an essential part of any trip to Lisbon, Portugal.

Don't miss the opportunity to include a visit to Lisbon Cathedral on your travel itinerary. Keep reading to learn more about how to visit this top attraction in Lisbon, Portugal.

History of Lisbon Cathedral

A symbol of Lisbon's rich history, the Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé de Lisboa, is the city's oldest church. Its construction dates back to 1147, following the Christian reconquest of the city from the Moors.

Initially built in a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, the cathedral has undergone several reconstructions due to devastating earthquakes, notably in 1344 and 1755. These events led to a blend of architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque.

The cathedral's fortress-like appearance is a testament to its role as a place of refuge during sieges. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate stained glass windows, a beautiful Romanesque font, and an impressive Gothic cloister that reveals Roman, Arabic and medieval remains.

In the 20th century, significant restoration work restored the cathedral to its original grandeur. Today, the Lisbon Cathedral stands not only as a place of worship but also as a monument to the city's resilience and enduring spirit.

Unique features of Lisbon Cathedral

The Lisbon Cathedral, locally known as Sé de Lisboa, is a perfect blend of different architectural styles, providing a unique aesthetic appeal. Its facade showcases a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles, while the interior beautifully contrasts this with a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque designs. The cathedral is home to some of the oldest bells in Lisbon, which resonate with historical significance.

The cathedral also houses the Fonte Baptismal, a baptismal font where St. Anthony of Padua was baptized in 1195. The treasury of the cathedral is a must-visit, displaying an impressive collection of religious artifacts, including ecclesiastical garments, manuscripts, and sacred vessels. The cloister of the cathedral, partially in ruins, exhibits archaeological excavations, revealing Roman, Islamic, and Medieval remains, making it a fascinating site for history enthusiasts. Additionally, the cathedral's location, overlooking the Tagus River, offers breathtaking views, making it an architectural gem in the heart of Lisbon.

Located in Lisbon, Portugal

Located in Santa Maria Maior, the iconic Lisbon Cathedral is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lisbon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Portugal.

Lisbon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisbon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and LX Factory.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisbon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisbon - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

How to get to Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon Cathedral is located in Lisbon, Portugal, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 4.44 miles (7.15 km) away from Lisbon. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Lisbon Cathedral is located.

If you’re already in Lisbon, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the Catholic cathedral. The exact address of the attraction is Largo da Sé 1, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Lisbon Cathedral. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Lisbon Cathedral and other top attractions in Lisbon at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Lisbon Cathedral!

Best time to visit Lisbon Cathedral

The best time to explore Lisbon Cathedral is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. These months generally provide pleasant weather conditions, allowing for comfortable exploration. These seasons also coincide with Lisbon's off-peak tourist season, meaning you'll likely encounter fewer crowds when visiting the Cathedral, enabling a more leisurely experience. In addition, the Cathedral often holds special events during Easter in spring and the Feast of Saint Anthony in June, providing a unique cultural experience. However, please note that the Cathedral might be busier during these events. In terms of daily timing, Lisbon Cathedral is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in summer (June to September) and until 5 p.m. in winter (October to May). We recommend visiting in the morning hours for a quieter experience. Remember to check the Cathedral's official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Lisbon Cathedral tours & tickets

Photo of Praca do Comercio with yellow tram, Lisbon, Portugal.

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a trip to Lisbon Cathedral, one of the most iconic attractions in Portugal drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique Catholic cathedral, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Lisbon Cathedral starting from 1.03 EUR below.

Top tours & tickets to Lisbon Cathedral

Ensure a hassle-free experience at Lisbon Cathedral by booking a guided tour. The most recommended tour is this 2 Hour Tuk Tuk Tour of the Old Town it will make you fall in love, which starts from 75 EUR.

Rated an average of 5 out of 5 stars by 69 travelers, this tour is one of the most popular Shore Excursions in the city. This activity fills up quickly, so make sure to reserve your slot in advance.

Discover and compare more top-rated tours and tickets to Lisbon Cathedral below.

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Lisbon Cathedral travel plans

Photo of a happy tourist woman overlooks the colorful old town Alfama of Lisbon city, Portugal.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lisbon and top attractions like Lisbon Cathedral with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Lisbon Cathedral and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Lisbon, Portugal, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind Catholic cathedral in Portugal.

Top Lisbon Cathedral travel plans

The easiest way to plan a holiday including a visit to Lisbon Cathedral is to book a holiday package.

Choose from vacations ranging from relaxing weekend getaways to exciting city breaks in Lisbon, or embark on an adventurous road trip across multiple regions in Portugal.

One of the most popular vacation packages among travelers visiting Portugal is the 7-Day Portugal City Break in Lisbon. This all-in-one vacation includes adventure-packed days with visits to famous sites in Lisbon, like Lisbon Cathedral, and plenty of other bucket-list attractions in Portugal, including the famous Torre Vasco da Gama, Arco da Rua Augusta, Castelo de S. Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral, and Miradouro de Santa Luzia.

If you can extend your stay in Portugal for a few more days, you’re in for a treat. Experience the best week and a half of your life with the 10-Day Road Trip to Portugal and Spain from Lisbon to Grândola, Seville, and Mérida. Your itinerary will be filled with visits to top attractions like Praça Dom Pedro IV, Arco da Rua Augusta, Oceanário de Lisboa, Time Out Market Lisboa, and Praça Luís de Camões, in addition to recommendations of the best activities to join along your route. You’ll return home with a camera gallery full of memories from your iconic road trip across Portugal.

Enjoy the convenience of having all accommodations, transportation, and activities taken care of before you arrive in Portugal. All you need to do is pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable holiday in Lisbon. Discover the best package holidays to Portugal below.

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Car rental near Lisbon Cathedral

Photo of Santa Marta Lighthouse and Museum in Cascais, Lisbon district, Portugal.

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Lisbon Cathedral becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 19 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Portugal's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lisbon and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, OK Mobility currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 4.41 EUR per day or 30.88 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Rua Da Guiné, 24, 2685-337 in Lisbon, this rental option ensures you can explore Portugal's wonders without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Lisbon Cathedral

Photo of Woman tourist walking in narrow streets of Lisbon city old town.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Lisbon Cathedral just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Lisbon.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Lisbon Cathedral below.

Top hotels near Lisbon Cathedral

Make the most of your time in Lisbon by staying close to Lisbon Cathedral. Lisbon is home to top-rated hotels and places to stay for every budget, within a comfortable distance from Lisbon Cathedral.

With an outstanding 4 out of 5 stars from 1806 satisfied guests, this hotel is one of the best-rated stays near Lisbon Cathedral. One night at this hotel costs from 158 EUR per night.

Explore all your options and find the best hotel for your trip to Lisbon below.

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Other top attractions in Lisbon

Lisbon offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisbon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, and Castelo de S. Jorge.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Lisbon, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 99,112 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Praça do Comércio is 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisbon is Belém Tower. This is just like Praça do Comércio, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 83,980 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this fort is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

Castelo de S. Jorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This museum and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 80,896 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Castelo de S. Jorge creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lisbon below.

Map of attractions in Lisbon

Your next adventure is waiting for you in city of Lisbon. Explore the map to discover all the incredible attractions you’ll visit on your vacation of a lifetime in Portugal.

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