What to Wear in Lisbon

General Style Tips

In Lisbon the locals dress in a smart, casual and understated elegant style. Opt for a smart casual look with nice shoes.
Jeans are very popular especially with younger people, but they are always smart and clean.
With lots to see and lots of walking to do, make sure you take comfy footwear for daytime (Hotter shoes are good).
In the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) and a sunhat.
Whatever the time of year the sun can be bright so always take your sunglasses with you.
There is a beach but unless you are sure you will swim there or you are staying at a hotel with a pool, leave your swimming costume at home.
Also see What to Wear in Portugal

Our advice would be to save your shorts and sarong for the beach; wearing them elsewhere in the city will label you as a tourist and skimpy tight-fitting clothes may get you unwanted attention.
We would suggest that you pack a smarter outfit for more up-market restaurants and some great sparkly sandals.
Take your heels, but save them for evening dining or nightclubbing.
A pashmina is a versatile item that will dress up any outfit.
If you are going to visit any religious sites then be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs – your pashmina can come in handy for this too.

Apart opting for a smart casual look there are no specific things to bring to your attention; check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.
For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.

The winter months of November, December, January, February and March can be cool and wet, so pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella.
It’s worth noting that even if the winter months are warmer than you are used to at home, they won't feel that way to the locals. Pack warmer clothes, shoes and even boots if you want to fit in and feel comfortable.
Dressing in layers are the key to coping with variable temperatures; mornings will be cool but at the height of the day the temperature can still soar – even in winter.
The summer months of June, July, August and September are hottest; be well prepared with sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of water – especially if you are out sightseeing. Consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage.
To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V).
If you're aiming to travel with just carry-on baggage, try the CabinMax soft-sided rucksack – it's light, roomy and has plenty of pockets to keep your stuff organized.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Wine and olive oil are great buys in Lisbon but you will need to pack these liquids in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.