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- July 21, 2024
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3 Days in Lisbon: The Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
Planning on spending three days in Lisbon but wondering where to start? You’ve come to the right place!
In this three-day Lisbon itinerary, I’ve covered everything you need to know for a fantastic visit to Portugal’s capital.
From navigating the city’s public transportation to discovering the best dining spots, top attractions, ideal accommodations, and more—this guide has all your Lisbon questions answered.
Lisbon is a captivating city that draws countless visitors each year, and it’s no wonder why. With its distinct architecture, vibrant energy, and fascinating history, there’s something here for everyone.
Whether you’re keen on riding the iconic trams through historic districts, exploring castles and scenic viewpoints, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Lisbon offers all that and more.
So without further ado, dive in and start planning your perfect Lisbon adventure!
Table of Contents
How Many Days Do You Need in Lisbon?
With so much to see and do, you may be wondering how many days you need to truly experience everything this beautiful city has to offer. While there is no definite answer as every traveler’s itinerary will vary, we recommend spending at least 3 days in Lisbon to get a taste of its unique blend of old-world charm and modernity.
Where is Lisbon Located?
Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, located on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula. You can reach Lisbon by flying into Humberto Delgado Airport, which is just a short distance from the city center. You can also take a train or bus from other cities in Portugal or Spain, making it an easily accessible destination for travelers.
Why should you visit Lisbon?
There are countless reasons to explore Lisbon, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world! The city offers endless entertainment through its historic sites, vibrant nightlife, museums, and diverse cultural experiences.
Lisbon also boasts incredible restaurants and bakeries, many of which are famous around the globe. We’ll delve into that later! Three days in Lisbon is a great amount of time to experience the city and see some of its main attractions. Even if you have more time, there is always something new to explore!
3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary – Overview
In this 3 day Lisbon itinerary, we’re looking to maximize your time in the city while also giving you a taste of everything it offers. This itinerary is designed for those who may be short on time but still want to experience the best of Lisbon.
Day 1: Alfama District and Praça do Comércio
Alfama Neighborhood
Your first day in Lisbon will be spent exploring the historic Alfama district and Lisbon’s main square, Praça do Comércio. Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most charming neighborhood, is characterized by its narrow, winding, and hilly streets, offering a rich, vibrant atmosphere. Given its age, be prepared for a walk around Alfama and Lisbon’s seven hills, which can be challenging. Comfortable shoes and taking breaks are essential! One of the things we loved about Alfama was its authentic feel, as it isn’t overly touristy.
Start your day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast of pastel de nata (custard tarts) and coffee at charming cafes like Alfama Doce or Santo António. Pastel de nata is a must-try in Lisbon, and you’ll find them EVERYWHERE you go.
Miradouros (Viewpoints)
After breakfast, take a stroll through the winding streets of Alfama, soak in the charming atmosphere, and check out the best miradouros in the city. These are the viewpoints scattered throughout Lisbon that offer stunning panoramic views of the city. Some must-visit miradouros include Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, and Miradouro da Graça. While you’re walking around you’ll find signs that tell you where these miradouros are.
Castelo de São Jorge
This historic castle is a must-visit when in Lisbon, as it offers not only breathtaking views but also a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. Castelo de São Jorge, or Saint George’s Castle in English, dates back to the 11th century and is a must-see for history buffs and anyone who loves exploring old ruins. You can roam around the castle’s old walls, check out the towers, and relax in the gardens. There’s also a small museum with cool archaeological finds. Also, don’t be surprised if you run into some peacocks strutting around the grounds! Visiting this castle was our favorite part of being in the Alfama district, so don’t skip this stop!
Lisbon Cathedral
From Saint George’s Castle, head to Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Santa Mary Major de Lisboa or simply Sé. This Romanesque cathedral is the oldest and most important church in the city, dating back to the 12th century, and it’s famous for its stunning Gothic cloisters and beautiful stained-glass windows. Inside, you’ll find a mix of architectural styles from different periods, making it a unique and interesting place to visit. Don’t forget to look up at the ceiling while inside – it’s truly a work of art! Even if you don’t have time to go inside, it’s still worth walking by to admire its’ beauty and take a picture.
Fado Museum
For a taste of Portuguese culture, head to the Fado Museum. Fado is a traditional music genre that originated in Lisbon and is known for its melancholic tunes and poetic lyrics. This museum showcases the history of Fado, with exhibits of famous artists and instruments used in performances. You can even catch a live performance at the museum’s auditorium. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture while also learning something new. In Alfama, you will find that a lot of restaurants and bars offer live Fado performances as well.
Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora
Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora is definitely worth a visit when you’re in Lisbon. This 16th-century monastery is a hidden gem with its beautiful architecture and fascinating history. Inside, you’ll find stunning architecture and intricate tilework, along with a peaceful church interior. The tile collection is impressive, especially the series depicting La Fontaine’s fables. One of the best parts is the rooftop, which offers amazing views over Alfama and the Tagus River. It’s usually not too crowded, so it’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle and soak in some history and gorgeous scenery.
Lisbon’s National Pantheon
Lisbon’s National Pantheon, or Panteão Nacional, is another really cool place to check out. Originally built as the Church of Santa Engrácia, it’s now a majestic baroque building where many famous Portuguese figures are buried. Inside, you’ll find a stunning marble interior and a huge dome that’s pretty impressive. The best part? Climbing up to the top of the dome gives you awesome panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. It’s a great spot to soak up some history, enjoy the architecture, and snap some amazing photos of the city. As you can see, the Alfama district’s authenticity and viewpoints can’t be matched anywhere else in the city!
Tram 28
Now that you’re on your way to the main square, it’s time to hop on Tram 28. In Lisbon, much of their public transportation is by tram. One of the most iconic and popular trams in the city is Tram 28. This vintage yellow tram takes you on a scenic tour through some of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, including Alfama, Graca, and Bairro Alto. It’s funny how iconic and popular these are, but they are cute and a nice way to get around. The ride can get quite crowded, but it’s worth it for the experience and views along the way.
Praça do Comércio
Hop off Tram 28 and relax at Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s main square. This large, bustling square is one of the city’s best spots, surrounded by grand yellow buildings and situated right on the Tagus River. It’s ideal for people-watching and enjoying street food from local vendors. Don’t miss the iconic Arco da Rua Augusta (Rua Augusta Arch) within the square—it’s so beautiful!
Santa Justa Lift
Right around the corner from Praça do Comércio is the Elevador de Santa Justa, or Santa Justa Lift, an iconic elevator that connects the lower streets of Baixa with the higher Carmo Square. Designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel, this lift is not only functional but also a beautiful work of art.
This is another spot where you go to the top for amazing views of Lisbon’s rooftops and the Tagus River. But be warned, there may be long lines to go up as it’s a popular tourist spot, so if you’re happy with the views you’ve seen to this point, it’s not a must-do in our opinion.
Livraria Bertrand - Chiado
Something we didn’t have our bingo cards when we first thought about coming to Lisbon was visiting the world’s oldest bookstore! This bookstore has been open since 1732 and has survived earthquakes, fires, and wars. Despite its age, the bookstore still has a wide selection of books in multiple languages and hosts events such as book signings and readings. After visiting this bookstore it will have been a long day and is a good time to either take a relaxing walk on the Tagus River or go back to your accommodation to rest.
Day 2: Top Rated Sights in Lisbon & Sunset Cruise
Pastéis de Belém
Day two in Lisbon was probably our favorite day and after you’re done reading you’ll see why! First thing in the morning, make your way over to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery where they’ve been baking the delicious Pastel de nata since 1837. Here, these pastries are actually just called Pastéis de Beléms because they’re the originals!
Again, these pastries are a must-try when in Lisbon and you can even look around the bakery to see how they’re made. However, Pastéis de Belém bakes more than just their famous pastries, they also have a wide variety of food you can also eat for breakfast and lunch. The food and service was great here, and it was very affordable!
Jerónimos Monastery
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, or Jerónimos Monastery, is absolutely one of the best things to do in Lisbon! A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this building is an absolute marvel with its beautiful architecture and design. Construction started in 1501 and was completed in 1601, making the Jerónimos Monastery over 500 years old! Commissioned by King Manuel I, the monastery houses the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões, important figures in Portuguese history. Walking through the monastery gave us Harry Potter vibes, and we took many great pictures! We highly recommend visiting early, as the line gets long quickly; when we left at 10:30 AM, it was already 2 ½ hours long! You can also save time by buying tickets in advance.
Belém Tower
A very short walk from the Jerónimos Monastery is another iconic landmark in Lisbon – the Belém Tower! This fortress was built in the 16th century and served as a defensive structure for the city. Its unique architectural style and strategic location make it a must-visit spot for tourists. The tower is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We loved walking around Belém Tower and it was beautifully situated on the Tagus River. We heard from locals and other experienced tourists that it wasn’t worth going inside, so we didn’t. They said there’s hardly anything to look at in there and is not worth the 2-3 hour line. Nevertheless, it’s a must-visit spot and one of the best places to be in Lisbon!
Monument to the Discoveries
Your next stop will be to see the Monument to the Discoveries! From Belem Tower, you walk 10 minutes right along the shoreline and go straight to it. The monument is dedicated to the Portuguese Age of Discovery during the 15th and 16th centuries. It features a large stone sculpture of a ship with famous figures from Portugal’s history, including explorers, navigators, and artists. You can also go inside the monument as there are exhibitions and a viewpoint at the top that offers stunning city views. This is a must-visit and it’s just a beautiful monument and the surrounding area is equally stunning.
Rossio Square
After your morning in the Belém district, take a tram or bus back to the city center and make your way to Rossio Square. This square is at the heart of Lisbon’s downtown area and has a lot to offer. It’s surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the D. Maria II National Theatre and the Rossio Train Station with its iconic horseshoe-shaped arches.
Carmo Convent
Around the corner from Rossio Square is the Carmo Convent, a unique historical landmark. This Gothic-style church was partially destroyed during the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755, leaving just the walls and arches standing. Today, it serves as an archaeological museum with fascinating artifacts and exhibits. It’s a really neat stop and a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Tuk Tuk Ride
You can’t visit Lisbon without taking a Tuk Tuk ride through the city’s narrow streets! These small, open-air vehicles are a fun and convenient way to explore Lisbon’s many neighborhoods and see a lot of famous landmarks in a short time. Each tuk-tuk ride has a private guide who will take you to all the main spots and even a few hidden gems! We loved it and thought it was so much fun. We learned a lot about the city, and getting out of the sun was refreshing. A tuk-tuk ride can be enjoyed anytime during the trip and might even be a nice thing to do when you first arrive. Your choice!
Lisbon Sunset Cruise
If you asked us what our favorite thing to do in Lisbon is, we’d easily say the Lisbon sunset cruise! This is a must-do activity for any visitor to the city. The 2-hour cruise takes you along the Tagus River, which runs through Lisbon and offers stunning views of the city’s most iconic landmarks like the Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, Praça do Comércio, and April 25 Bridge. You’ll also have an up-close look at the Sanctuary of Christ the King, which was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Seeing all of these famous landmarks away from the crowds on the water was so special. The sunset cruise included two drinks, and we just loved how relaxing and beautiful it was. We were also lucky enough to see a few dolphins swimming alongside the boat! It was truly a magical experience that we will never forget. If you want to take the same tour we did, you can do that here!
Bairro Alto
If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene in Lisbon, head to Bairro Alto. This neighborhood is known for its vibrant bars, restaurants, and live music venues. During the day, it’s also a great place to wander around and discover charming boutiques and unique street art! If you’re not wanting the party scene and just want to relax, you can skip this stop and head back to your hotel for some much-needed rest.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra!
National Palace of Pena
If you only have three days in Lisbon and the surrounding areas, you must visit Pena Palace!
Located in the charming town of Sintra, this palace was once a royal summer residence and is now open to the public for tours. The colorful architecture and stunning views make it a must-visit destination, and the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace add to its charm. Pena Palace gets very busy, so we highly recommend arriving for the first available time slot at 9:30 AM. Be sure to buy tickets online in advance to avoid them selling out. Since getting to Sintra and Pena Palace takes about an hour, you’ll want to leave around 7:30 or 8:00 AM to ensure you arrive on time.
The Moorish Castle
If you want to visit another must-see attraction in Sintra, be sure to check out the Moorish Castle. This fortress dates back to the 8th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Pena Palace. The walk up to the castle can be a bit steep and strenuous, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking views. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Quinta da Regaleira
Another popular spot during your time in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira. This beautiful estate is famous for its gardens, secret tunnels, and the iconic Initiation Well, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. We recommend setting aside a couple hours to wander around the grounds and discover its hidden gems. Like Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira can get quite busy, so arriving early is a good idea, but for this itinerary you’ll have to go later. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to secure your spot and save time.
Sintra Historic Center
After a really busy day so far, head to the Sintra Historic Center for the perfect place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of this quiet town. You can go to the Sintra National Museum or the National Palace of Sintra if you’d like or simply walk around to the different shops and cafes.
Back to Lisbon
Following the stroll around the Sintra Historic Center, we returned to Lisbon, walked around Praca do Comercio one last time, and ate dinner at a nearby restaurant. Hangout around the Tagus River to watch the sunset and head back to your accommodation to recharge for your next adventure.
More Day Trips from Lisbon
If you’re interested in other day trip ideas in Lisbon, a couple of great choices are Cascais, Obidos, or Fátima. Cascais is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Obidos, on the other hand, is a picturesque medieval village with cobblestone streets and historic walls surrounding it. Fátima is a pilgrimage site for Catholics and offers a deep dive into Portuguese religious history. All of these day trips are great ideas, but choose the one that interests you the most!
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Where to stay in Lisbon will depend on your budget and preferred location. If you want to stay in the heart of the city, Baixa and Chiado are great options with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. For a more local feel, you can stay in the Alfama district. When we stayed in Lisbon, our hotel was located in the Alfama district. We loved all of the beautiful viewpoints and the authenticity of the neighborhood, but it was a very tough place to stay. Alfama has the steepest hills and it was very difficult walking around with our luggage and every time we came back to our hotel, it was a huge workout! Next time, we’d stay in the Baixa district since it’s more central to the main attractions and easier to navigate with luggage.
Where to Eat?
There are many great options in Lisbon for food, from traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisine. In Baixa and Chiado, you can find a mix of upscale restaurants and casual cafes offering everything from fresh seafood to hearty stews. A few great places to eat in these areas are Cervejaria Ramiro, known for their famous seafood, and Time Out Market, a large food court with a variety of different options. Time Out Market is a really good idea if you have a large group and you can’t agree on what type of food you’d all like to eat. We also enjoyed the Godfather, which is close to Praça de Comércio and offers a giant menu of different food for every kind of person.
Beira Gare is also a popular café located near Lisbon’s Rossio Station, famous for its delicious bifana, a traditional Portuguese pork sandwich. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick and tasty meal while exploring the city.
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine, head to Alfama. Some great restaurants in Alfama are Alfama Cellar and Clube de Fado, which is known for their authentic dishes and live fado performances. We also ate at Gosta do Castelo Brunch & Dinner where we tried octopus… Eating octopus wasn’t our favorite, but it wasn’t horrible either. Much of our group didn’t get the octopus and they enjoyed a lot of their food here.
Lastly, you have to eat at Pastéis de Belém! The original pastéis de nata, or Portuguese custard tart, was created here, and this iconic bakery has been serving delicious pastries since 1837. Located in the Belém district, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. There are also some really good sandwiches here if you want more than just pastries.
Best Time to Visit Lisbon
In our opinion, the best time to visit Lisbon is from May to August. The weather is beautiful during this period, with plenty of sunshine and little rain. This makes it ideal for exploring the city’s charming streets, enjoying outdoor cafés, and taking in the stunning views from Lisbon’s many miradouros (viewpoints). If you’ve been in Lisbon when it rains, you know it can get very slippery on the cobblestone streets, so the drier months are a lot safer to walk around!
In May, the city comes alive with festivals and events like the IndieLisboa Film Festival and the start of the city’s famous street parties in the Alfama district, leading up to the lively Festas de Lisboa in June. These festivities fill the streets with music, dancing, and traditional Portuguese food.
By July and August, Lisbon is in full swing with long, warm days perfect for beach trips to nearby coastal spots like Cascais and Estoril. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds at popular attractions and book accommodations in advance!
If you prefer a quieter visit, consider late September or early October. The weather remains pleasant, and you’ll find fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed stay.
FAQs about Lisbon
1. What is the cheapest way to visit Lisbon’s attractions?
The most cost-effective way to visit Lisbon’s attractions is by getting the Lisboa Card. This card offers unlimited free travel on public transportation and free or discounted entry to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Santa Justa Lift. You can purchase the Lisbon Card online or at various tourist information points in the city.
2. How do I get around Lisbon?
Lisbon has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metro stations. The iconic Tram 28 is a great way to see the city’s historic neighborhoods. Walking is also a popular option, especially in areas like Alfama and Bairro Alto. For a unique experience, consider taking a tuk-tuk tour or renting an electric scooter.
3. What are the must-try foods in Lisbon?
Lisbon is known for its delicious cuisine. Don’t miss trying pastel de nata (custard tarts), bacalhau (salted cod), and bifana (pork sandwiches). Enjoy seafood dishes like grilled sardines and octopus salad, and wash it all down with a glass of ginjinha, a traditional cherry liqueur.
4. What are the top attractions in Lisbon?
Some of Lisbon’s top attractions include the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Alfama district. Castelo de Sao Jorge offers stunning views of the city, while the Oceanário de Lisboa is a favorite for families. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Praça do Comércio and take a walk along the Tagus River. Our favorite attraction is the sunset river cruise!
5. How safe is Lisbon for tourists?
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like in any major city, it’s important to be mindful of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Tram 28 is known to be a spot for pickpockets.
6. What should I pack for a trip to Lisbon?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, as Lisbon’s cobblestone streets and steep hills can be challenging. Bring light clothing for the warmer months, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun. A travel adapter for European plugs is also necessary.
7. Where can I find the best views of Lisbon?
Lisbon is known for its stunning viewpoints, or miradouros. Popular spots include Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. For panoramic views, visit the São Jorge Castle or take a ride on the Santa Justa Lift.
Final Thoughts on this 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary
Overall, we really enjoyed our time in Lisbon! It’s a beautiful city with an endless array of things to do. The public transportation was relatively easy to navigate, and we felt safe during our stay. Our favorite activities were the sunset river cruise, exploring Jerónimos Monastery, and taking a Tuk Tuk tour. While Lisbon might not be in our top 5 all-time destinations, it’s still a stunning place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. As always, thank you for your support in reading our blog, and safe travels!
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