Although Brazilians like me usually pick Portugal as they first spot to visit in Europe, I actually avoided to go there because I believed it would be too familiar to count as a trip. What a mistake! When I finally visited Lisbon, I felt in love. It is one of those cities that instantly charms you with its colorful streets, delicious food, and that perfect mix of history and modern energy. It has an undeniable romantic vibe to it, dictated by the many love stories that fill the Portuguese imaginary. And it makes you fall in love with it!
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week, this itinerary will help you experience the best of the Portuguese capital—from iconic sights to local secrets.
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Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Lisbon
Morning: Alfama & São Jorge Castle
- Start with a Pastel de Nata – You are on vacation, so calories are not being counted. You want to start early to eat these delicacies so you can make sure to have as many as possible. Head to Manteigaria or Pastéis de Belém for Lisbon’s famous custard tart.
- Wander through Alfama – The oldest district in Lisbon, originally settled by the Moors in the Middle Ages. Its labyrinthine streets were designed to provide shade and keep the area cool. Now a days, it is the ultimate “cool” neighborhood in Lisbon, with endless cute cafes and stores. Alfama retains its historical charm but has been heavily affected by gentrification and mass tourism. Many locals have been pushed out due to rising rent prices, so try to support small, family-owned businesses while exploring.
- São Jorge Castle – Perched on a hill, this castle dates back to the 11th century and was a strategic Moorish fortress before being reconquered by the Portuguese in 1147. It will make you feel like coming back in time! In addition, the castle offers incredible views over the city.
- Sé Cathedral – A stunning 12th-century cathedral built on the site of an old mosque, symbolizing Lisbon’s transition from Moorish to Christian rule.
Keep an eye for the street art while you are wondering on the streets. They are not only fun and beautiful, but also carry meaning and tell stories from the neighborhoods. To learn, consider joining a street art tour.
Afternoon: Downtown & Baixa-Chiado
- Lunch in Chiado – Try traditional Portuguese dishes at places like Cervejaria Trindade or Taberna da Rua das Flores.
- Walk through Praça do Comércio – Lisbon’s grandest square, once the site of the royal palace before it was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. Enjoy the people watching and take pictures!
- Elevador de Santa Justa – This iron elevator, built in the early 1900s by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, is a beautiful example of Lisbon’s industrial-era engineering. ıt is super fun to watch the city while you go up!
- Convento do Carmo and Carmo Archaeological Museum – Housed in the ruins of the Carmo Convent, which was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, this open-air museum preserves Gothic arches and a fascinating collection of archaeological artifacts, including medieval tombs, pre-Columbian mummies, and Roman relics.– A hauntingly beautiful Gothic church ruin left standing after the 1755 earthquake, serving as a reminder of the disaster that reshaped Lisbon.
Evening: Sunset & Fado in Bairro Alto
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – One of the best sunset spots in Lisbon, offering views over the old city.
- Dinner with Fado– You don’t know what is an emotional performance untill you’ve watched Fado. Book a table at a Fado house like O Faia or Clube de Fado to experience this soulful music, which originated in the working-class neighborhoods of Lisbon.
For a more intimate and exclusive experience, consider booking the private Lisbon: Intimate Live Fado Music Show with Port wine.
Night out in Bairro Alto – After dinner, wander through Bairro Alto’s bars.
Day 2: Belém, Modern Lisbon & Riverfront Vibes
Morning: Belém’s Must-Sees
- Jerónimos Monastery – A UNESCO-listed masterpiece of Manueline architecture, this monastery was built in the 16th century using wealth from Portugal’s Age of Exploration. It houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Don’t forget your camera, because the photos here are stunning.
- Pastéis de Belém – Grab another pastel de nata from the original bakery. Yes, it’s worth the hype! You will probably have to await in line for a while, but I suggest you just enjoy being in Lisbon and the (potentially) nice day it is making outside.
- Belém Tower & Padrão dos Descobrimentos – These riverside landmarks celebrate Portugal’s maritime exploration past. The tower was a defense structure, while the monument honors explorers like Henry the Navigator. Although colonization is not my favorite thing about Portugal, the architecture is beautiful and the views very much worth it!
Afternoon: MAAT & LX Factory
- MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture & Technology) – A futuristic museum with amazing views. The exhibitions here are usually great, and you can also enjoy taking some pics outside.
- Lunch at LX Factory – A creative hub filled with cool restaurants, shops, and street art. Try burgers at O Mercado or seafood at Rio Maravilha.
Evening: Sunset & Rooftop Drinks
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – One of the best viewpoints in Lisbon.
- Park Bar – A rooftop bar on top of a parking garage with killer views and great cocktails.
- Dinner in Cais do Sodré – Head to the lively Time Out Market for a variety of amazing food options.
Day 3: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences
Morning: Graça & Mouraria
- Tram 28 Ride – Hop on the classic yellow tram for a tour through Lisbon’s hills in style. Is it super touristic? Yes, it is. Is it fun though? Yes as well!
- Graça’s Miradouros – Check out Miradouro da Graça and Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte for breathtaking views.
- Mouraria District – The birthplace of Fado and one of Lisbon’s most multicultural neighborhoods.
Afternoon: Campo de Ourique & Estrela
- Basílica da Estrela – A beautiful church with an accessible rooftop for a unique city view.
- Jardim da Estrela – A peaceful park perfect for a relaxing break.
- Lunch at Mercado de Campo de Ourique – A lesser-known but fantastic food market.
Evening: Sunset at the River
- Cais das Colunas – A chill spot by the Tagus River to watch the sun go down.
- Dinner at a Local Taberna – Try a traditional Portuguese restaurant like Taberna da Rua das Flores or Ramiro for fresh seafood.
More Museums in Lisbon
Besides Maat, Lisbon have plenty of museums. If you love museums, don’t miss these:
- Calouste Gulbenkian Museum – One of Europe’s best art collections.
- Museu Nacional do Azulejo – Celebrating Portugal’s iconic tiles.
- Museu Berardo – A fantastic contemporary art museum.
- Casa Fernando Pessoa – Dedicated to Portugal’s most famous poet.
Best Day Trips from Lisbon
If you have extra time, these day trips are 100% worth it:
1. Sintra (40 min by train)
Prepare to feel like you are in a fairy-tale! If you only have one day for Sintra, just make sure to not miss those:
- Pena Palace – The colorful hilltop palace, comign right out of a fairytale, will mesmerize you!
- Quinta da Regaleira – A mysterious estate with a stunning well you might have seen on social media. It also has a lovely chappel, and the whole vibe is very romantic!
- Moorish Castle – Ancient ruins with epic views.
2. Cascais & Estoril (30 min by train)
Perfect for a beach day!
- Boca do Inferno – A dramatic cliffside viewpoint.
- Praia do Guincho – A wild, beautiful beach popular for surfing.
- Cascais Old Town – A charming area with cute streets and delicious seafood.
3. Óbidos (1 hour by bus)
A cute medieval town with whitewashed houses and a castle!
- Walk the castle walls – The best way to take in the views.
- Try Ginja in a chocolate cup – A local cherry liqueur you must taste!
Bonus: Almada
If you have at least one day and like to go out of the beaten path in Lisbon, here is my secret tip: go to Almada. This cute city in the metropolitan region of Lisbon will surprise you!
The most touristy thing to do in the city is to visit the Cristo Rei statue. I personally skipped it, but it is up to you. I got to take a picture of its back on the way to my first stop though.
Then you can go hike the Quinta da Alrealva. Follow an easy and pleasant trail to the ruins of a former winery covered in graffiti for an adventure with post-apocalyptic feels!
From there, take the Boca do Vento elevator to visit Casa da Cerca, a cultural center with a great view of the bridge. Go see one of their art exhibitions and enjoy a coffee by the garden after! Entrance is free.
On your way down, spot the Castelo de Almada walls.
Finally, walk to the Cacilhas ferry station to return to Lisbon, enjoying the historical buildings on the way – maybe treating yourself to an ice-cream, cause why not?
Final Tips for Lisbon
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) have the best weather.
- Getting Around: Walk as much as possible, but trams, metro, and buses are great for covering longer distances.
- What to Eat: Besides pastel de nata, try bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and bifana (pork sandwich). If you are vegetarian like me, it might be a little more challenging. My suggestion is for you to stick to vegetarian restaurants.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Restaurants in major squares tend to be overpriced—walk a few streets away for better, cheaper food.
Lisbon is an absolute dream! I hope you enjoy your time there. Boa viagem! 🇵🇹
