Lisbon
on, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city known for its mix of history, culture, and stunning views. Explore the historic Alfama district, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, or visit the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
Enjoy a ride on the famous tram 28, which takes you through the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, or stroll along the Tagus River for beautiful waterfront views. The Bairro Alto district comes alive at night with its lively bars and restaurants offering traditional fado music.
With its perfect combination of tradition, modernity, and charm, Lisbon is a city that leaves a lasting impression.
Things To Do
Lisbon is a vibrant city full of history and culture. Start by visiting Belém Tower and the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO sites. Don’t miss a stop at Pastéis de Belém for the city’s famous custard tarts.
Wander through the charming streets of the Alfama district and visit São Jorge Castle for panoramic views, plus the historic Lisbon Cathedral. For modern art lovers, MAAT and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum are must-sees.
Take a tram ride on Tram 28 through picturesque neighborhoods, and if you have time, visit Sintra for its magical castles. End your day by enjoying the scenic views and cafés by the Tagus River. Lisbon has a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty!
Need To Know
Situated: In Portugal, along the Atlantic coast
Accommodation: It is important to book in advance, especially in the city center and near the historic districts.
Activities:
- Explore the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto
- Visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
- Ride the iconic Tram 28
- Enjoy a day trip to Sintra
- Taste traditional Pastel de Nata
Best season: From April to June and September to October
Cheap season: From November to March
Recommended Time to Visit Lisbon (Portugal)
- 1-2 days: Explore Baixa, visit the Belém Tower, and discover the Alfama district.
- 3-4 days: Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, explore Bairro Alto, and take a tram 28 ride.
- 5+ days: Explore Sintra, discover the LX Factory, and dive into Lisbon’s rich culinary scene.
Lisbon 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)
Day 1: Historic Center & Iconic Landmarks
- Morning:
- Start in the Baixa district, Lisbon’s downtown area, and explore its grand squares like Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square.
- Visit the Santa Justa Elevator for panoramic views of the city.
- Wander through the Alfama district, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, and enjoy its narrow winding streets and colorful houses.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Time Out Market, where you can sample a variety of Portuguese food from top chefs.
- Visit the Lisbon Cathedral, known as Sé de Lisboa, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Take a relaxing stroll along the Tagus River to the Belém district.
- Evening:
- Dine at Café de São Bento, famous for its Portuguese steak sandwich.
- Visit the Fado bars in Alfama, where you can enjoy the soulful Portuguese music.
Day 2: Belém & Cultural Exploration
- Morning:
- Start your day by visiting the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Manueline architecture.
- Walk to Belém Tower, an iconic fortress that once guarded the entrance to the port of Lisbon.
- Try a Pastel de Belém from the famous Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, a delicious Portuguese custard tart.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, a modern museum on the banks of the river.
- Explore the Monument to the Discoveries, which celebrates Portugal’s Age of Exploration.
- Have lunch at O Mercado da Ribeira, known for its local seafood and traditional dishes.
- Evening:
- Take a tram or taxi to Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s lively nightlife district.
- Enjoy dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores, a cozy spot serving delicious Portuguese tapas.
Day 3: Sintra Day Trip & Scenic Views
Option 1: Sintra
- Morning:
- Take a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon to Sintra, a fairy-tale town surrounded by lush forests and magical palaces.
- Visit the Palácio da Pena, a colorful castle perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the town.
- Explore the Moorish Castle, an ancient fortress offering amazing views of the surrounding area.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Cantinho Gourmet, a charming restaurant in the heart of Sintra.
- Explore the beautiful Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical palace and garden with underground tunnels and hidden rooms.
- Evening:
- Return to Lisbon and enjoy a final dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro, a famous seafood restaurant known for its king crab and shrimp.
Option 2: Lisbon’s Hidden Gems
- Morning:
- Take a tram ride through Graça, one of Lisbon’s most authentic neighborhoods, and visit the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for one of the best views of the city.
- Stop by LX Factory, a vibrant hub of creative businesses, restaurants, and shops in a former industrial complex.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at A Cevicheria, a trendy spot known for its innovative ceviche dishes.
- Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo), where you can see beautiful examples of traditional Portuguese tiles.
- Evening:
- End your trip with a dinner at José Avillez’s Belcanto, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern takes on Portuguese cuisine.
Lisbon 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)
- Day 4: Explore the Parque das Nações, visit the Oceanário de Lisboa, and walk along the scenic riverfront.
- Day 5: Take a boat trip on the Tagus River, visit Estoril Beach, or head to Cascais, a charming coastal town nearby.