What to Do in Lisbon for 2 Days

Lisbon, the sunlit capital of Portugal, is a captivating city where history, culture, and contemporary charm blend seamlessly. Known for its iconic trams, colorful tiled buildings, and sweeping views of the Tagus River, Lisbon offers an abundance of experiences to discover within a short time. With just two days, you can immerse yourself in its vibrant neighborhoods, visit historic landmarks, savor local cuisine, and get a taste of its unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Exploring Central and Historic Lisbon
• Day 2: Belém and Modern Lisbon

Day 1: Exploring Central and Historic Lisbon

Your first day in Lisbon takes you through its historic heart, where winding alleys, grand plazas, and breathtaking views await. You’ll explore the iconic neighborhoods of Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto, experiencing Lisbon’s vibrant culture and architecture at every turn.

1. Morning: Discovering Alfama

Start with Breakfast in Alfama

Kick off your day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast in Alfama, the oldest and most atmospheric district in Lisbon. For a sweet start, try pastéis de nata (custard tarts) paired with a strong coffee at a local café.

Walking Tour of Alfama

Alfama’s maze of narrow streets is perfect for a morning stroll. As you wander, you’ll encounter beautiful spots like Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), one of the city’s oldest buildings. Continue to Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views over Alfama’s terracotta rooftops and the Tagus River.

Castelo de São Jorge

Perched high above the city, Castelo de São Jorge is an ancient fortress with breathtaking views of Lisbon and the river. Walk along the castle walls, explore its historic towers, and enjoy the gardens that are home to roaming peacocks. This is a must-see landmark that brings Lisbon’s rich history to life.

• Location: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon
• Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Cost: €10 for adults, discounts for students and seniors
• Features: Historic fortress offering panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Notable for its ancient towers, scenic gardens, and resident peacocks.

2. Midday: Baixa and Chiado Neighborhoods

Praça do Comércio and Rua Augusta

After exploring Alfama, head to Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s grandest squares, situated right by the river. Take a stroll along Rua Augusta, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers, connecting the square to the heart of Baixa.

Santa Justa Lift

From Rua Augusta, make your way to the Santa Justa Lift, an ornate elevator that offers sweeping views of the city. Take a ride up to see Lisbon from a new perspective, and explore the viewpoint at the top, which provides access to the Carmo Convent ruins.

• Location: Rua do Ouro, 1150-060 Lisbon
• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM - 11:00 PM (May-Oct) and 7:30 AM - 9:00 PM (Nov-Apr)
• Cost: €5.30 for a round trip
• Features: Ornate Gothic-style lift connecting Baixa and Carmo Square. Provides excellent city views and access to the Carmo Convent ruins.

Lunch in Baixa or Chiado

Stop for lunch in Baixa or Chiado, two popular areas with a variety of traditional Portuguese and international dining options. Sample classic dishes like bacalhau à brás (scrambled codfish with potatoes) or bifana (marinated pork sandwich) for a true taste of Lisbon.

3. Afternoon: Cultural Sites in Chiado

Livraria Bertrand

Chiado is home to Livraria Bertrand, the world’s oldest operating bookstore. Established in 1732, this historic bookstore offers a cozy atmosphere with shelves full of Portuguese and international literature.

• Location: Rua Garrett 73-75, 1200-203 Lisbon
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Sundays, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Cost: Free to browse
• Features: The world’s oldest operating bookstore, founded in 1732. Known for its historic atmosphere, extensive book selection, and cozy reading spaces.

Convento do Carmo (Carmo Convent Ruins)

Not far from Livraria Bertrand, you’ll find the striking Carmo Convent, a Gothic church partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. Its open-air nave and Gothic arches create a unique and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Be sure to explore the adjoining Carmo Archaeological Museum for fascinating artifacts from different periods of Portuguese history.

• Location: Largo do Carmo, 1200-092 Lisbon
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Cost: Around €5 for museum entry
• Features: Gothic ruins from the 1755 earthquake, with an open-air nave and a collection of artifacts in the museum. A hauntingly beautiful place for history enthusiasts.

4. Evening: Bairro Alto and Sunset Views

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

As evening approaches, head to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, a viewpoint that offers one of Lisbon’s best panoramic vistas. This spot is especially popular at sunset, with views overlooking Lisbon’s hills and historic buildings. Grab a drink from a nearby kiosk and relax as the sun sets over the city.

Dinner and Nightlife in Bairro Alto

For dinner, explore the lively neighborhood of Bairro Alto, known for its bustling nightlife and diverse restaurants. Here, you’ll find everything from traditional Portuguese tascas to modern eateries. After dinner, dive into Bairro Alto’s vibrant nightlife scene, where you can enjoy live Fado music or explore the district’s countless bars and clubs.

Day 2: Belém and Modern Lisbon

Your second day in Lisbon combines the historic treasures of Belém with the vibrant and modern side of the city. From exploring monumental sites along the Tagus River to discovering Lisbon’s contemporary art scene, this itinerary ensures you experience both the timeless charm and dynamic energy of the city.

1. Morning: Historic Belém District

Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém

Start your day in Belém with a visit to the renowned Pastéis de Belém bakery, where Lisbon’s famous custard tarts originated. Established in 1837, this bakery still uses a secret recipe for these delicious pastéis de nata, which are best enjoyed warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Jerónimos Monastery

After breakfast, head to the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. This impressive Manueline-style monastery was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India and is an architectural marvel. Wander through the cloisters and admire the intricate stonework, learning about Portugal’s Age of Exploration along the way.

Belém Tower

Continue your exploration of Belém with a visit to the Belém Tower, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage. Originally constructed as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor, the tower features Moorish and Manueline architectural details. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the Tagus River and surrounding area.

Monument of the Discoveries

Finish your morning by visiting the Monument of the Discoveries, a tribute to Portugal’s explorers who ventured into unknown seas during the Age of Discovery. Shaped like a ship, the monument features statues of notable figures like Prince Henry the Navigator. You can also take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Belém and the riverfront.

2. Midday: Lunch and LX Factory

Lunch Options in Belém or LX Factory

After a morning filled with historical sights, enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the many restaurants in Belém or head over to LX Factory. For traditional Portuguese dishes, Belém offers some great spots near the main attractions. Alternatively, LX Factory has trendy eateries and food stands offering both local and international flavors.

• Location: Rua Rodrigues de Faria 103, 1300-501 Lisbon
• Hours: Varies by venue; typically 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Cost: Free to explore; food and shopping prices vary
• Features: Creative hub with boutique shops, street art, galleries, and restaurants. Home to the iconic Ler Devagar bookstore and unique eateries.

Explore LX Factory

LX Factory, located in a former industrial complex, is now a lively hub of creativity with street art, boutique shops, galleries, and cafés. This unique area is perfect for a leisurely afternoon of exploration. Check out the innovative art installations, visit the famous Ler Devagar bookstore with its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and browse local designer shops for unique souvenirs.

3. Afternoon: Parque das Nações

Cable Car Ride Along the Waterfront

Head to Parque das Nações, Lisbon’s modern district redeveloped for the 1998 World Expo. Start with a scenic Tagus River cruise or a cable car ride along the waterfront, offering excellent views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge, Europe’s longest bridge, and the Oceanário de Lisboa.

Oceanário de Lisboa

If you’re traveling with family or are an ocean enthusiast, a visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa is a must. As Europe’s largest indoor aquarium, it features a central tank that mimics an open ocean ecosystem, home to a diverse array of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The aquarium is divided into different habitats, making it a fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.

• Location: Esplanada Dom Carlos I, Parque das Nações, Lisbon
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• Cost: €19 for adults, €13 for children (4-12), €15 for seniors
• Features: Europe’s largest indoor aquarium with a central ocean tank, featuring sharks, rays, and exotic fish from around the world. Divided into diverse marine habitats for an immersive experience.

Stroll Along the Tagus River at Parque das Nações

After visiting the aquarium, take a peaceful walk along the Tagus River, where you’ll find landscaped gardens, modern sculptures, and relaxing viewpoints. Parque das Nações is a beautiful place to unwind and enjoy Lisbon’s contemporary architecture, making it a refreshing contrast to the city’s historic areas.

4. Evening: Dinner and Farewell Lisbon

Dinner at Time Out Market

Wrap up your day at Time Out Market in Mercado da Ribeira, where you’ll find a lively selection of Lisbon’s best chefs and food vendors under one roof. This food hall offers a wide range of culinary options, from Portuguese classics to international dishes, making it an ideal spot for a farewell meal.

Rooftop Bar for a Final View of Lisbon’s Skyline

For a memorable end to your time in Lisbon, head to one of the city’s stylish rooftop bars. Rooftops like Park Bar in Bairro Alto or Topo Chiado near the Santa Justa Lift offer stunning night views of Lisbon’s skyline. Enjoy a cocktail, take in the views, and reflect on the memories made over these two incredible days in Lisbon.