What to Do in Lisbon for 3 days

Lisbon, Portugal's sunlit capital, is an enchanting city where history, culture, and vibrant street life come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore deeper, three days in Lisbon offers the perfect opportunity to uncover its charming neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and unique flavors.

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Exploring Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama
• Day 2: Discovering Belém and Modern Lisbon
• Day Trip to Sintra or More of Lisbon

Day 1: Exploring Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama

Day 1 introduces you to Lisbon’s historic heart, where classic architecture, charming streets, and panoramic views await. This itinerary will take you through Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama—some of the city's most beloved neighborhoods.

1. Morning

Start with a Morning Tram Ride (Tram 28)

Begin your day by hopping on Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28. This scenic route winds through many of the city's major neighborhoods and offers a quick introduction to Lisbon’s charm and history.

But First, Coffee at a Local Café

Stop at a cozy café for a morning espresso or traditional Portuguese galão (milky coffee). Cafés in Lisbon are known for their inviting atmospheres, perfect for starting the day.

• Location: Rua Garrett 120, 1200-209 Lisbon
• Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Cost: Coffee starting from €1.50
• Features: Historic coffee house with Art Deco decor, beloved by famous Portuguese writers; a perfect retreat for a cozy coffee break

Get Oriented with a Walking Tour

Join a guided or self-guided walking tour to explore the highlights of Baixa and Chiado. You’ll pass through the city’s grid-like layout, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, and learn about Lisbon's resilience and rich history.

Visit Praça do Comércio

One of Lisbon’s grandest squares, Praça do Comércio, opens onto the Tagus River. Explore the statues, monuments, and picturesque archways, and soak in the views of the water.

2. Late Morning

Explore Baixa and Chiado Districts

Walk Rua Augusta: Stroll down this lively pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It’s a great spot to browse or pick up souvenirs.

Santa Justa Lift: For unique views over Lisbon, take the Santa Justa Lift, an ornate elevator that transports you up to the Carmo Convent ruins and a scenic viewpoint.

• Location: Rua do Ouro, 1150-060 Lisbon
• Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:45 PM
• Cost: €5.30 for a round trip; included with the Lisboa Card
• Features: Unique neo-Gothic elevator offering panoramic views over the city and access to Carmo Convent ruins

Lunch

Stop for lunch in Chiado, a district famous for its eateries and bakeries. Make sure to try the beloved pastel de bacalhau (codfish cake) and pastel de nata (custard tart), two Portuguese delicacies.

3. Afternoon

Visit Castelo de São Jorge

Overlooking the city, Castelo de São Jorge offers some of the best views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Wander through the ancient fortress, learn about its history, and keep an eye out for peacocks roaming the grounds.

• Location: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (March to October); 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (November to February)
• Cost: €10 for adults; discounts for students and seniors
• Features: Historic fortress with sweeping city and river views, ancient walls, and resident peacocks

Stroll Through Alfama

Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets filled with local charm. Take time to explore its authentic shops, houses, and hidden gems.

• Fado Museum: Stop by this museum to learn about fado, Portugal’s traditional melancholic music genre, which has roots in Alfama.
• Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa): This historic cathedral, with its Romanesque architecture, is one of Lisbon’s oldest buildings.

Enjoy the Views from Miradouros

Alfama has some of Lisbon’s best miradouros (viewpoints), each with stunning views of the red rooftops and the river.

• Miradouro de Santa Luzia: This spot has a lovely garden and tile murals, creating a beautiful backdrop.
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol: Known for its iconic views, this viewpoint is perfect for capturing Lisbon’s beauty.

4. Evening

Pre-Dinner Drinks at Miradouro da Graça

For a relaxed evening, head to Miradouro da Graça, a popular viewpoint for both locals and visitors. Enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the city.

Dinner in Bairro Alto

End your day with dinner in the lively Bairro Alto district. Known for its variety of restaurants and vibrant nightlife, Bairro Alto has options ranging from traditional Portuguese to international cuisine.

Experience Fado Music

Immerse yourself in Lisbon’s cultural heritage by attending a live fado performance at a nearby restaurant or fado house. The music and lyrics capture the spirit of Portugal, making for a memorable evening.

Day 2: Discovering Belém and Modern Lisbon

Day 2 takes you on a journey through Lisbon’s maritime heritage and its contemporary side. You’ll visit Belém’s famous monuments, savor traditional Portuguese flavors, and experience the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

1. Morning

Visit the Belém District

Belém is known for its rich maritime history, stunning monuments, and waterfront views. It’s easily accessible by tram or bus from central Lisbon.

• Jerónimos Monastery: Start your morning with a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. The monastery was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India and is intricately adorned with nautical motifs.
• Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): Originally built to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor, this tower is another UNESCO site and one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Tagus River.
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries): This striking monument celebrates Portugal’s Age of Exploration, depicting famous explorers, including Prince Henry the Navigator. You can also take an elevator to the top for more scenic views.

Try the Original Pastéis de Belém

No visit to Belém is complete without sampling pastéis de Belém (custard tarts), the original version of the beloved pastel de nata. Head to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, where the recipe has been a well-kept secret since 1837.

2. Afternoon

Explore LX Factory

LX Factory is not only a food destination but also a hub for art, shopping, and creative inspiration. Spend some time browsing the unique independent shops, street art, and galleries that make this space so lively.

• Visit the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology): Just a short walk from LX Factory, the MAAT showcases contemporary art and architecture. The museum building itself is an architectural highlight, offering great views of the river from its rooftop.

Optional: Ride on Tram 28

If you missed the iconic Tram 28 yesterday or want another ride through Lisbon’s scenic neighborhoods, now is a good time to experience it. This tram takes you through historic areas, providing a relaxing and picturesque ride.

3. Evening

Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River

For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a sunset cruise along the Tagus River. This scenic boat tour provides a unique perspective of Lisbon’s waterfront, iconic monuments, and city skyline, all bathed in the glow of the setting sun.

Dinner at Time Out Market

Head back to the Time Out Market for dinner, where you’ll find a vibrant selection of some of Lisbon’s best food stalls, offering a variety of Portuguese dishes and international flavors. It’s a great spot to sample different foods and enjoy Lisbon’s bustling food scene.

Experience Lisbon's Nightlife in Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto

End the night by exploring the vibrant nightlife of Cais do Sodré, known for its bars and lively atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for more nightlife, head to Bairro Alto, where you’ll find a wide range of bars, live music venues, and nightclubs, perfect for a fun and memorable evening.

Day Trip to Sintra or More of Lisbon

For your final day, you have a magical day trip to the fairytale town of Sintra. Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its whimsical palaces, lush gardens, and mystical atmosphere. Located just 40 minutes from Lisbon, it’s an ideal day trip for history and nature lovers.

1. Morning

Getting to Sintra

Take an early train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Sintra. Trains run frequently, and the journey is quick and convenient.

Visit Pena Palace

Start your day at the colorful Pena Palace, one of Portugal’s most famous landmarks. Its vibrant colors and eclectic architecture make it feel like a castle from a fairy tale. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the surrounding forest and Atlantic Ocean.

Explore Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle)

A short walk from Pena Palace, this medieval fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into Portugal’s past. Climb along the castle walls for stunning views of Sintra and beyond.

2. Afternoon

Visit Quinta da Regaleira

This enchanting estate is a must-see, with its lush gardens, hidden tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well—a spiral staircase that descends into the earth, symbolizing a journey to the “underworld.” Quinta da Regaleira is full of symbolism and mystery, making it a memorable part of your Sintra experience.

3. Evening

Return to Lisbon

Take an evening train back to Lisbon, allowing time for one final stroll or dinner in the city.

Dinner and Evening Stroll

Once back in Lisbon, choose a cozy restaurant in Chiado or Alfama for your last meal. Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll through Lisbon’s atmospheric streets, reflecting on the memories of your trip.