Lisbon Cathedral
Sé de Lisboa’s tours, Timings, Twin towers, Tips, & FAQs
Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé de Lisboa, is a remarkable historical and architectural landmark in the heart of the Alfama district.
Dating back to 1147, the cathedral is a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, with fascinating elements that reveal the city’s rich history.
Whether you’re a history buff or just want to experience a calm moment of reflection, this guide will help you make the most of your visit, from ticket details to the best tours and nearby attractions.
Top Tickets
# Lisbon Cathedral entry ticket
# Private city tuk-tuk guided tour + Lisbon Cathedral
# Electric bike tour including Lisbon CathedralAs Lisbon Cathedral tickets often sell out quickly, it’s recommended to book them as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
Best tours & combos that include Lisbon Cathedral
Several tours pass by or include entry to Lisbon Cathedral, allowing you to experience not just the cathedral but also the surrounding neighborhoods.
Whether you prefer an entry ticket, a walking tour, an e-bike ride, or a tuk-tuk adventure, there’s a perfect option for you.
Lisbon Cathedral entry ticket (Self-Guided)
If you want to explore at your own pace, purchasing this entry ticket is the quickest way to access the key areas. Note that this is not a skip-the-line voucher, so expect to wait in line.
- This entry ticket is valid for one day.
- See the baptistery and the Patriarch’s dressing room
- Explore the Treasury of the Patriarchal Sé
- Enjoy the view from the High Choir
- Visit the Balcony behind the Rosácia
- Prices: €7 for adults (13+ years), €5 for children (7 to 12 years), free for infants
Private city tuk-tuk guided tour + Lisbon Cathedral
This private tuk-tuk tour offers a customized city experience, with the option to stop at Lisbon Cathedral.
- This tuk-tuk tour lasts around 1.5 to 3.5 hours.
- TIme slots are available from 9:00 to 18:00/19:00, depending on the tour option.
- Experience Lisbon’s top attractions effortlessly on a private electric tuk-tuk
- Explore the heart of Europe’s oldest neighborhood, including the Alfama and Mouraria districts
- Admire Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), the city’s oldest cathedral
- Wander through the charming streets of Graça and Alfama
- Cruise past the Miradouro da Porta do Sol and ascend to Nossa Senhora do Monte
- Discover landmarks like Mercado da Quebrada, the National Pantheon, and the Fado Museum
- Visit Rua Cor-de-Rosa, a vibrant street filled with colorful buildings
- Conclude your tour back at Time Out Market, with time to explore local shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars
- Price: From €120 per person
Electric bike tour: Hills, Alfama & Mouraria including Lisbon Cathedral
This bike tour takes you up the hilly streets of Lisbon, with stops at key attractions, including Lisbon Cathedral. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
- This tour lasts around 3 hours.
- Starting time slots: 10:00, 12:00, and 15:00
- Two tour options: shared tour and private tour
- A live tour guide available in English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German
- Explore Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most charming neighborhood
- See São Jorge Castle, one of Lisbon’s most iconic and emblematic monuments
- Learn about Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral), the city’s oldest church from the 12th century
- Ascend to Nossa Senhora do Monte, one of the highest points in Lisbon
- Electric bike tour through Alfama, Mouraria, and Graça
- Small group to a maximum of 8 participants per guide for a more intimate experience
- Prices: Group tour – From €34, private tour – €138 for two people, Children below 11 years are not allowed in this tour.
Tram 28 ride & walking tour with Lisbon Cathedral
Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s most famous routes, passing through many historic districts, including Alfama. The tour includes a walking portion where you’ll visit Lisbon Cathedral.
- Tram ride and walking tour takes about 3 hours and start at 9:30.
- Ride the historic Tram No. 28 through Lisbon’s Old Town and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city
- Walk through the picturesque neighborhood of Alfama
- Learn about Fado, the soulful Portuguese music genre
- Explore Feira da Ladra (Lisbon’s oldest flea market) on Tuesdays and Saturdays
- Visit historical buildings like Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral), where nearly 1,000 years of history are concealed within the walls
- See the Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora (Saint Vincent Monastery)
- Discover the legend behind the Panteão Nacional (National Pantheon), with its iconic dome
- A small group tour with a maximum of 10 participants.
- Prices: €20 for adults (13+ years), free for infants
Segway medieval tour of Alfama & Mouraria + Lisbon Cathedral
This tour takes you through the heart of Alfama and Mouraria, two of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods. It includes a stop at Lisbon Cathedral, where you’ll have the chance to take in its impressive architecture.
- This tour lasts around 1.5 hours and time slots start from 10:00.
- Explore medieval Lisbon on a thrilling Segway tour of the city’s oldest neighborhoods
- Visit Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), the oldest place of worship in Lisbon
- Glide through Alfama and Mouraria, uncovering hidden corners and ancient streets
- Tour the National Pantheon, a 300-year construction that houses Portugal’s greatest historical figures
- Learn about Lisbon’s rich history, culture, and contemporary life from the tour guide available in French, English, German, Spanish.
- Prices: Shared group tour – From €49, private tour – €84
Opening hours & best time to visit
Visiting Lisbon Cathedral is an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to plan your visit according to the cathedral’s hours and the best times for fewer crowds and better lighting.
Operating hours
- Oct–Mar: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 – 18:00
- Apr–Sept: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 – 19:00
The last entry is 45 minutes before closing and the cathedral is closed to tourists on Sundays and religious holidays.
Best time to visit
To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning when the Cathedral open (at 10:00) or late in the afternoon. The soft light during these times makes for beautiful photographs, especially at sunset.
Free prayer area
The Lisbon Cathedral offers a free prayer area that can be accessed without a ticket. If you are visiting for religious purposes, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without purchasing an entry ticket.
How to reach Lisbon Cathedral
Address – Largo da Sé, 1100-580 Lisbon, Portugal. Get Directions
Tram 28: Stops at Largo da Sé, right next to the cathedral.
Metro: Take the Blue Line to Santa Apolónia, then a 10-minute walk.
Walking: From Baixa, it’s a 15-minute walk uphill; from Castelo, just 5 minutes downhill
Taxi/Uber: Direct drop-off at Largo da Sé.
From the Cruise Terminal: Take a taxi/tram or a 20-minute walk
What to see inside Lisbon Cathedral
Lisbon Cathedral is the city’s oldest and most iconic religious building. Inside the Cathedral, you’ll discover a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, each telling its own story. The cathedral’s High Choir, Treasury Museum, and cloisters are filled with beautiful and historic artifacts, offering an enriching experience for visitors.
High choir and balcony
The High Choir provides an excellent view of the entire cathedral, and the balcony offers a unique perspective on the magnificent rose window. It’s one of the best spots for photography.
Treasury museum
The museum showcases a collection of liturgical items, including ornate chalices, vestments, and artworks related to the church. The pieces are an important part of Portugal’s religious and artistic heritage.
Gothic cloister and archaeology
The cathedral’s cloisters are a peaceful retreat, where ongoing archaeological excavations reveal remnants of Roman, Medieval, and Islamic-era buildings. The archaeological findings are displayed to give visitors a deeper understanding of Lisbon’s layered history.
Iconic rose window and twin towers
The rose window above the altar is one of the cathedral’s most iconic features. The twin towers on the exterior of the cathedral are also a great photo opportunity, especially when viewed from the cathedral square.
Tips for visitors: Etiquette, accessibility & photography
- Visitor etiquette – Dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum, especially during religious services. The cathedral remains an active place of worship, so some areas may be restricted during services.
- Accessibility – Please note that the cathedral’s interior is not fully accessible for those with mobility challenges due to the many stairs.
- Photography tips – Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited, especially during religious services. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photos.
Nearby sights: Pairing your visit with other attractions
Lisbon Cathedral is located in the historic Alfama district, which is full of charming streets, viewpoints, and other attractions. After visiting the cathedral, consider adding these nearby sights to your itinerary.
- Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol viewpoints – These two viewpoints offer stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. They’re just a short walk from the cathedral and provide excellent photo opportunities.
- São Jorge Castle – The castle is another iconic Lisbon landmark located nearby. It’s a short walk from the cathedral and offers sweeping views of the city.
- Fado streets and markets – Alfama is also home to Fado music and the Feira da Ladra flea market. If time allows, these experiences offer an authentic taste of Lisbon’s culture.
FAQs about Lisbon Cathedral
Here are some questions people ask before visiting the Lisbon Cathedral.
Is the Lisbon Cathedral free to enter?
No, entry to the Lisbon Cathedral is not free. You must purchase an entry ticket to visit the Cathedral. However, there is a free prayer area that you can visit without purchasing a ticket.
How long should I spend exploring the Lisbon Cathedral?
Explore the Lisbon Cathedral for about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much you wish to explore. This allows enough time to see the main areas, including the High Choir, Treasury, and cloisters.
Is there a dress code for visiting Lisbon Cathedral?
Yes, modest dress is recommended for Lisbon Cathedral due to its religious nature, so visitors should cover their shoulders and knees. While there isn’t a strict dress code, wearing revealing clothes like shorts or tank tops is considered disrespectful.
Is there a time limit for visiting Lisbon Cathedral?
No, you can take your time exploring the cathedral, but keep in mind that the last entry is 45 minutes before closing. Your Lisbon Cathedral entry ticket is valid for one day.
Are there any other attractions nearby to combine with Lisbon Cathedral?
Yes, there are combo tickets available with Lisbon Cathedral. You can choose from tours like the Tuk-Tuk city tour, E-Bike tour, or Tram 28 ride & walking tour, where you’ll explore attractions such as Lisbon Cathedral, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, Alfama & Graça districts, and more.
