Day 1: Historic Lisbon

Start your first day in Lisbon by exploring the city’s historic neighborhoods.

Morning:

  • Start at Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s largest squares, and admire the Arco da Rua Augusta, a triumphal arch that marks the entrance to the city’s downtown area.
  • Walk up the Rua Augusta pedestrian street towards the Elevador de Santa Justa, a neo-Gothic elevator that offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Take the elevator up to the top and then walk up the remaining steps to reach the Carmo Convent, a roofless church that was partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch in the Chiado neighborhood, known for its upscale shops, cafes and restaurants.
  • Visit the São Roque Church, a Baroque-style church with a stunning interior that includes gold leaf and intricate tile work.
  • Wander through the historic Alfama district, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods. Be sure to visit the Lisbon Cathedral, a Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century.

Evening:

  • Watch the sunset from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a beautiful viewpoint in the Alfama district.
  • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the neighborhood, which serve traditional Portuguese dishes.

Tip: Save money and time with a flexible Lisbon Card. Enjoy free admission to top attractions and discounts at various landmarks. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the card provides unlimited free access to the public transport system.

Day 2: Belem and Modern Lisbon

On the second day, explore some of Lisbon’s modern landmarks as well as the charming Belem neighborhood.

Morning:

  • Take a tram or bus to Belem, a neighborhood located west of the city center. Visit the iconic Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century.
  • Be sure to also visit the nearby Belém Tower, a defensive tower that was built in the 16th century.
  • Take a walk along the waterfront and admire the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a monument that pays tribute to Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Afternoon:

  • Return to the city center and have lunch at Mercado da Ribeira, a popular food hall with a variety of stalls serving traditional Portuguese dishes.
  • Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, a museum dedicated to Portugal’s famous decorative tiles.
  • Take a ride on the famous Tram 28, which takes you through some of Lisbon’s most historic neighborhoods.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Lisbon’s many seafood restaurants.
  • Take a stroll along the Avenida da Liberdade, one of the city’s main boulevards.

Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

On the third day, take a day trip to Sintra, a picturesque town located just 40 minutes outside of Lisbon.

Morning:

  • Take a train to Sintra and start your day at the historic Palácio Nacional de Sintra, a Moorish-style palace that dates back to the 14th century.
  • Visit the nearby Quinta da Regaleira, a romantic palace and estate with extensive gardens and underground tunnels.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch in the town center of Sintra and then visit the iconic Pena Palace, a colorful Romanticist palace that sits atop a hill overlooking the town.
  • If you have time, visit the nearby Monserrate Palace, a 19th-century palace with beautiful gardens and exotic plants.

Evening:

  • Return to Lisbon and have dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants.
  • If you’re up for it, enjoy the city’s nightlife by visiting one of its many bars or clubs.