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Lisbon, capital city of Portugal, is a very historically rich city, and there sure is a lot of things to discover. If you’re planning a weekend trip there, you might wondering how to plan your visit to make the most out of your time in Lisbon, right? I’m glad to tell you that you found the right post to help you in this task.

In this guide, I’ll share with you the best Lisbon Itinerary for 3 days in Lisbon, to help you plan your visit. Let’s get to it!

 

3 Days in Lisbon – Itinerary Overview + Map

Spending 3 days in Lisbon will give you plenty of time to discover Portugal capital city, and this is exactly how many days I recommend to visit Lisbon. Indeed, with three days in Lisbon you’ll be able to see all of the iconic sights, plus experience some hidden gems of the city.

Here’s a quick overview of the Lisbon itinerary for 3 days, breakdown by hour: 

  • Day 1: East Lisbon – Alfama District
    • 9:30 – Lisbon Cathedral
    • 11:00 – Miradouro de Santa Luzia
    • 11:30 – Igreja de São Vicente de Fora
    • 12:30 – Lunch
    • 2:00 – Panteão Nacional
    • 3:30 – Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte
    • 4:30 – Castelo de Sao Jorge
  • Day 2: Lisbon City Center – The Iconic Lisbon
    • 9:30 – Elevador de Santa Justa
    • 10:30 – Convento do Carmo
    • 11:30 – Arco da Rua Augusta
    • 11:45 – Praça do Comércio
    • 12:00 – Lunch
    • 1:30 – Ascensor da Bica
    • 2:30 – Basílica da Estrela
    • 4:00 – Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View
  • Day 3: South Lisbon – Over the Tagus river
    • 9:30 – Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei
    • 11:00 – Torre de Belém
    • 11:30 – Padrão dos Descobrimentos
    • 12:00 – Lunch + Pastéis de Belém takeaway
    • 1:15 – Jardim de Belém + Jardim da Praça do Império
    • 1:45 – Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
    • 3:00 – Igreja Santa Maria de Belém
    • 4:00 – Going back home

Click here to access the free itinerary map: 3 Days Itinerary

 

Day 1: East Lisbon – Alfama District

This is your first day in Lisbon; you just arrived to Portugal capital city, and you’re likely full of energy. We’ll start this 3 day-itinerary by visiting the Alfama District.

The Alfama District is located on a hill, and has very steep streets. It’s also one of the oldest parts of Lisbon. Ready to discover?

 

1. Lisbon Cathedral

lisbon cathedral 3 days in lisbon

 

To start the day, we’ll visit Lisbon most famous cathedral, The Lisbon Cathedral. Also known as Sé de Lisbon, or just Sé, it’s the oldest church in Lisbon. It was built in 1147 when the Europeans reconquered the city from the Moors, and the Cathedral was built in place of the main mosque of Lisbon.

The Cathedral is free to visit, and it opens very early (7am). Note that the cloister opens later (10am), so if you wish to visit both go to the cathedral around 9:30am.

Tip: Tram 28 (the typical Lisbon tram) is not worth taking anymore: long queues, crowded ride and pickpockets. However if you visit the Cathedral early morning, take the tram: you’ll get to experience it without all of the above.

Price: Cathedral – Free entrance / Cloister – 2.50 euros

Opening times: Church – 7am to 7pm / Cloister – 10am to 5pm

 

2. Miradouro de Santa Luzia

miradouro da santa luzia 3 days in lisbon

 

The second spot is the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, only a 6 minutes walk away from the Lisbon Cathedral. Miradouro means “viewpoint” in Portuguese. If you see a sign or a spot on Google Maps with Miradouro, feel free to check it out; you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view.

The Miradouro de Santa Luzia offers a beautiful view over the Alfama district: you’ll see the Panteao Nacional and the Igreja de Sao Vicente, that you’ll visit later in the day.

Tip: there are benches where you could sit at the viewpoint. Grab a takeaway breakfast, and come enjoy your breakfast with a view!

Price: free

Opening times: always open

 

3. Igreja de São Vicente de Fora

Igreja de São Vicente de Fora lisbon portugal

 

From the previous viewpoint, you saw the church on the left; it’s now time to visit it! The Igreja de São Vicente de Fora (church of Saint Vincent outside the walls) is actually a monastery. Built in 1629, the monastery is a good example of the fine Mannerist architecture style. It’s truly a sumptuous building, and well worth visiting.

I’ll let you in on a little secret: you can go all the way up to the rooftop of the church. Not only will you have one of the best views in the area, but you’ll also see the towers of the church from up close. A true hidden gem!

Tip: The door to the roof is on your right when facing the front door of the church

Price: Adult Ticket 5€ / Child Ticket 2.50€ /

Opening times: 10am to 6pm

 

4. Panteão Nacional

the main entrance of the panteao nacional lisboa

 

That was one busy morning, with a lot of beautiful discoveries in Lisbon! At this time of your visit, it will probably be time to eat. Find yourself a nice restaurant (lot of traditional restaurant in the area), and if the weather allows, grab a takeaway dessert + coffee and head to the Jardim Botto Machado to relax for a while.

The first stop of the afternoon is a National Monument, the Panteão Nacional (National Pantheon). I love the Panteao Nacional because it’s a stunning monument from the outside, it looks gorgeous inside as well, and you can also access the rooftop!

Tip: Don’t forget to go up the stairs to go under the dome, and view the inside of the monument from above. From inside the dome, you can also exit on the Pantheon terrace, definitely check it out!

Price: 4€

Opening times: October to March – 10am to 5pm / April to September – 10am to 6pm / (last entry 20 minutes before closing time)

 

5. Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte

Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte

 

Do you want to experience the real Lisbon? Well then, let’s go up on the heights of the city!

The Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte is the highest point in the neighborhood, and will give you an unbeatable view of the Alfama district. To get such a killer view, you’ll have to deserve it: it’s a 20 minutes uphill walk from the Pantheon. This will be your workout for the day.

There are several benches at the viewpoint, where you’ll be able to sit to catch your breath, relax, and enjoy the view over the whole city and the Tejo river in the back.

Tip: while you’re up there, you can visit the church of the same name, which is right behind the viewpoint

Price: free

Opening times: always open

 

6. Castelo de Sao Jorge

castelo de sao jorge lisbon 3 days itinerary

 

Would you believe it? It’s already the end of our first day in Lisbon! To end the first out of our 3 days in Lisbon, we’ll visit Castelo de Sao Jorge (Saint George’s Castle). The castle was built by the Moors in the 11th century. Due to its ideal position above the city, it was used as a stronghold throughout history.

Come late afternoon to visit the castle and explore the ruins. As the light starts to dim, go to the towers to watch the sun set over Lisbon; the perfect way to end your first day!

Tip: Because it’s opened until late, it’s the perfect location to watch the sunset in Lisbon

Price: Adult Ticket 10€ / Child Ticket 5€ / Free for kids under 12 years old

Opening times: November to February – 9am to 6pm / March to October – 9am to 9pm / (last entry 30 minutes before closing time)

 

Day 1 of our 3-day itinerary in Lisbon is over; we discovered the Alfama district, enjoyed stunning views over the city, and gave a good workout to our legs and butts. Get a good night rest, as tomorrow we’ll explore the Iconic Lisbon.

 

Day 2: Center Lisbon – The Iconic Lisbon

The second day of our 3 days Lisbon itinerary is focused on exploring Lisbon city center. I named this day The Iconic Lisbon, because we’ll be seeing the most iconic places of Lisbon, such as the Santa Justa lift or Praça do Comercio.

 

1. Elevador de Santa Justa

santa justa lift lisbon itinerary

 

This is probably Lisbon’s most visited place: the Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa lift). The Santa Justa lift is the only public lift in Lisbon. It was built in 1902, in order to connect the lower and higher streets of Lisbon.

The lift is unique, and taking it is a unique experience. When you’ll reach the top, you’ll have a magnificent view over the city center of Lisbon.

Santa Justa lift was once a necessity; allowing easy access to the higher streets of Lisbon. Today, it has become a tourist attraction, and you have to pay a hefty fee to take the lift. A 5€ ticket for a 10 seconds lift seems way too expensive for me. Plus, waiting lines get ridiculously long!

Tip: you can access the viewpoint for free by using the Top Entrance next to Convento do Carmo

Price: 5.15€ for the lift

Opening times: Lift – 7am to 9pm / Viewpoint – 9am to 9pm

 

2. Convento do Carmo

convento do carmo three days in lisbon

 

The Convento do Carmo, built in 1389, was a Catholic Convent, and the biggest church in Lisbon. “Was” because it was destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake; it’s now the most famous ruins in Lisbon.

You’ll see the monument from the previous spot, the Santa Justa viewpoint. It’s now time to visit it, and explore the ruins of this church without a roof! You can also visit the museum, where you’ll be surprised to find mummies!


Price: Adult Ticket 4€ / Free for kids under 14 years old

Opening times: October to May – 10am to 6pm / June to September – 10am to 7pm / Closed on Sundays

 

3. Arco da Rua Augusta

arco da rua augusta lisbon portugal

 

To end our second morning in Lisbon, it’s time to head to the historic center of Lisbon – the Baixa area (10 minutes walk from the previous spot).

The Arco da Rua Augusta is a massive 30 meters (100 feet) high stone arch. It’s located on the south end of Rua Augusta, and opens up on the Praça do Comercio. Walking in the street towards the arch is impressive, with the four huge statues above the arch.

Since August 2013, you can now go up the arch. You’ll have the best view on the Baixa district, and on the Praça do Comercio.

Tip: free entry if you have the Lisbon Card

Price: 3€ to go up

Opening times: 9am to 9pm (last entry at 7:45pm)

 

4. Praça do Comércio

praca do comercio 3 days lisbon

 

When walking through the Arco da Rua Augusta, you will end up on the Praça do Comércio; one of the biggest squares in Lisbon and Europe. There are very often events on the square, which might make it impossible to go in the center, all the way up to the statue of King José.

Tip: avoid eating in this area, it’s the most touristy area of Lisbon and everything is overpriced

Price: free

Opening times: always open


 

5. Ascensor da Bica

ascensor da bica in lisbon

 

After exploring Lisbon city center for half a day, I bet you’ll be hungry at this point. Avoid the temptation of eating next to Praça do Comércio (just don’t eat there, trust me), and move toward your next spot, Ascensor da Bica (10 minutes walk). You’ll find plenty of nice restaurants in the area.

After lunch, it’s time to experience one of the iconic experiences in Lisbon: the funiculars. The Ascensor da Bica (Bica funicular) was opened in 1892; it was originally a cable car. Since 1914, it’s now electrified, and is similar to a tram. It’s now listed as a National Monument.

There are three funiculars in Lisbon, and the Ascensor da Bica offers the best city view.

Tip: the 3 minutes ride to the top is pretty expensive, crowded, and you’ll have to queue for a while. I recommend skipping it and simply watching the funicular go by in the street.

Price: 4€ for a one-way ticket

Opening times: Monday to Saturday – 7am to 9pm / Sundays – 9am to 9pm

 

6. Basílica da Estrela

visit lisbon and the basilica da estrela

 

For the afternoon, we’ll explore one of the most ornate churches in Lisbon: the Basílica da Estrela. From the previous spot, it’s a 20 minutes walk, or a 10 minutes bus ride. When you arrive to Estrela, I recommend going to a pastry shop (like this one for example), to grab some sweet Portuguese specialties and coffee to take away.

Then, simply cross the street and enter the Jardim da Estrela, a nice garden where you can sit under a tree and enjoy your little break. When you’re ready to move on, exit the park, and head to the Basilica da Estrela, right across the street.

The basilica is a gem of baroque architecture. The outside is made of white marble, with two twin bell towers, and one stunning dome. The inside is made of grey, pink and yellow marble, forming beautiful geometric patterns.

To finish your visit, you can go all the way up on top of the basilica, on the absolutely impressive rooftop terrace.


Price: Basilica – Free / Rooftop 3€

Opening times: Basilica 9:30am-1pm & 3pm-7:30pm / Rooftop 10am-1pm & 3pm-6:40pm

 

7. Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View

Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View lisbon itinerary

 

Our second day in Lisbon is almost over. What better way to end the day than with a sunset over the city?

The last stop of the second day is the Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View, an observation deck on top of the Amoreiras shopping center. The viewpoint is 174 meters (570 feet) above sea level, and offers a stunning 360 degree view of Lisbon. You’ll be able to see all the way to the 25 de Abril bridge and the Cristo Rei (that we will visit on Day 3)

Tip: Because it’s opened until late, it’s the perfect location to watch the sunset in Lisbon

Price: Adult Ticket 5€ / Child Ticket 3€ / Free for kids under 5 years old

Opening times: 10am-12:30pm & 2:30pm-10pm

 

This itinerary are already 2/3rd over. This second day was dedicated to exploring the Iconic Lisbon, and seeing the city center. For our last day, we’ll focus on the Tagus river, and explore the monuments along the river banks.

 

Day 3: South Lisbon – Over the Tagus River

This is your final day in Lisbon. Day 3 is dedicated to South Lisbon, and most of the spots we’ll see are over the Tagus River.

 

1. Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei

cristo rei portugal 3 days in lisbon

 

To start your final day in Lisbon, we’ll go to the highest point in Lisbon: the Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei. While technically not in Lisbon (it’s in Almada), the Cristo Rei is a 110 meters high monument, a tall pedestal with a huge statue of Jesus on top.

You can go all the way to the top of the pedestal; it’s the perfect spot for a view over the Tagus river, and over the Golden Gate Bridge of Lisbon, the Ponte 25 de Abril.


Tip: You don’t have to pay. You’ll also have a stunning view from the ground in front of the statue, where you’ll see the Cristo Rei and the bridge, for free.

Price: Adult Ticket 6€ / Child Ticket 3€

Opening times: 9:30am to 6pm. Check the link below for full hours depending on the month.

 

2. Torre de Belem

belem tower sunrise in lisbon portugal

 

After starting the day at the Cristo Rei in Almada, it’s time to head back to Lisbon. Cross the bridge, and head to your next spot.

The Torre de Belem (Belem Tower) is one of the most famous places in Lisbon. Built in 1514, the Belem tower is made of a bastion, and a 30 meters high (98 feet) tower.

The tower was part of the military defense on the Tagus river. It’s now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monument is often very crowded, and it makes the visit hardly enjoyable. If you’re here during low-season, and early morning, I would consider visiting. Otherwise, it’s probably best to skip it.

Tip: Stop to the Pastry shop right next to the Tower to grab a coffee and some Pasteis de Nata, and sit on the steps in front of the tower to eat

Price: 6€ to visit

Opening times: October to April – 10am to 5:30pm / May to September – 10am to 6:30pm / Last entry at 5pm all-year round

 

3. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

padrao dos descobrimentos

 

After chilling for a while at the Belem Tower, make your way to the next spot; it’s only a 10-minutes walk away.

The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Monument of the Discoveries, is a monument celebrating the Portuguese exploration of the world, the Age of Discovery. The monument is huge; 56 meters (183 feet). When viewed from the side, it looks like the prow of a ship, while it looks like a cross when viewed from the front.

You’ll see statues on each side of the monument, 33 in total; they represent important figures of the Age of Discovery, such as Vasco de Gama. You can also go to the top of the monument; a lift will take you all the way to the top, where you’ll have a stunning view over the Belem district.

Tip: The mosaic in front of the monument is a world map. To fully see it, go to the top of the monument.

Price: Adult Ticket 6€ / Child Ticket 3€ / Free for kids under 12 years old

Opening times: October to February – 10am to 6pm / March to September – 10am to 7pm

 

4. Lunch + Pastéis de Belém takeaway

pasteis de belem three days in lisbon

 

Woop woop, that was one cool morning! If you started at 9:30 at the Cristo Rei, by the time you’re done visiting the previous spot it will be around 2pm: the perfect time to eat!

Pick a restaurant that you like (there are plenty in the area), but leave room for dessert. After you’re done with lunch, head to Pastéis de Bélem. The Pastéis de Belém shop produces some of the best Pastéis in Portugal; they’re a special kind of pastéis, dating back from 1837. They have a special taste, and I’m sure you’ll find yourself eating way too much of them!

Tip: Get your pastéis as takeaway, and go to the next spot to eat them!

Price: 1,15€ per pastel

Opening times: 8am to 11pm

 

5. Jardim de Belém + Jardim da Praça do Império

jardim de belem lisbon portugal

 

After lunch, it’s time to relax; I know the perfect place for this. Simply cross the street from Pastéis de Belém, to reach the Jardim de Belém (Belém Garden). It’s a beautiful garden, where you’ll be able to walk around, or sit under a tree to relax while you eat your pastéis.

You can also cross the street, and go to the next garden: Jardim da Praça do Império. This is your little break of the day, enjoy the warm weather and the beautiful garden.

Price: free

Opening times: always open

 

6. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

mosteiro dos jeronimos lisbon itinerary

 

After chilling for a while in the gardens, cross the street to visit the next spot (1 minute walk). The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery) is a massive monastery built in the 16th century.

The Monastery is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a National Monument. The architecture of the monastery is absolutely stunning, both from outside and inside. If you enter, you’ll be surprised by the beautiful details in the cloister.

Tip: If visiting during peak season, skip this as it will be crowded, and you’ll have to wait in line forever. Visit the next spot instead, which is free.

Price: Adult Ticket 10€ / Child Ticket 5€ / Free for kids under 12 years old

Opening times: October to May – 10am to 5:30pm / May to September – 10am to 6:30pm

Skip the line: Skip the line Ticket

 

7. Igreja Santa Maria de Belém

igreja santa maria de belem

 

And this is the end of our three perfect days in Lisbon! Our last spot is the Igreja Santa Maria de Belém.

Right next to the Monastery, this church is truly a marvel of architecture and probably one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon. In the church, you’ll also find the tomb of Vasco de Gama, a very detailed carved tomb, worth seeing.

Tip: Respect the location and don’t speak (or whisper).

Price: Free

Opening times: October to May – 10am to 5:30pm / May to September – 10am to 6:30pm /

 

As this is your last day in Lisbon, you’ll probably be going back home at the end of the day. If you start the day around 9:30 at the first stop (Cristo Rei), you’ll have time to see everything included in the Day 3 of the Lisbon 3 day itinerary, before leaving the capital city.

 

Download your free map for the 3-day Lisbon itinerary here:

3 Days Map

 

Are you wondering if you should add 1 extra day in Lisbon? You definitely should! Check out why in the section below.

 

Extending your stay in Lisbon

Extending your trip is great as Lisbon has enough attractions and landmarks to spend weeks there. But if you asked me how many days to spend in Lisbon, my answer would be 4 because you can fully explore Lisbon and fit in one of the many day trips from Lisbon in your planning. 

So, if you’re lucky to spend 4 days in Lisbon instead of 3, here’s a full day planning to spend one more extra day in Lisbon. My favorite Lisbon day trips is going to Sintra or Cascais. Out of the 2, I’ve chosen to add Sintra in this itinerary because of the exceptional monuments and landmarks the city has to offer.

Here’s the Sintra itinerary for your 4th day in Lisbon:

  • 9:45 – Pena Palace
  • 11:00 – Castle of the Moors
  • 12:30 – Quinta da Regaleira
  • 13:00 – Lunch
  • 2:30 – Cabo da Roca
  • 4:00 – Praia da Ursa
  • 7:00 – Azenhas do Mar

Click here to access the free 4 days in Lisbon itinerary map: 4 Days Map

Keep reading to review the places you’ll discover on your Sintra day trip

 

1. Pena Palace

pena palace lisbon itinerary

 

The first stop for our Sintra day trip is Pena Palace. Pena Palace, or Palacio da Pena, is the most iconic location in Sintra. The palace was built more than 500 years ago, in 1503. The building you can see today is the result of the destruction of the palace by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, and the reconstruction by King Ferdinand.

The Pena Palace gets extremely crowded during the day, so I highly recommend getting there as early as you can, to be the first to enter.

I love renting a car to be free on my trips, but you can also consider this Sintra Day Tour. The groups are very small (8 people max), and you’ll get skip the line access to monuments. They’ll pick you up directly from your hotel, and drop you off at your hotel at the end of the day.

Tip: if you’re driving, park your car in the free parking right below Pena Palace. Leave your car there, and go explore the next spot by foot.

Price: Adult Ticket 14€ / Child Ticket 12.50€

Opening times: 9:45am to 7pm.

 

2. Castle of the Moors

castelo dos mouros lisbon itinerary

 

Castle of the Moors, or Castelo dos Mouros, is also a castle, but it’s very different from Pena Palace. This one was built in the 9th century by the Moor, and you can walk all around the remparts.

The castle appears lost in the middle of the forest, and exploring the ruins is so fun! Because the castle is situated up on the hill, you’ll have a good view of the valley below, and also of Pena Palace.

Price: Adult Ticket 8€ / Child Ticket 6.50€

Opening times: 9:30am to 8pm / Last entry at 7:00 pm

 

3. Quinta da Regaleira

quinta da regaleira 4 days in lisbon

 

The last spot of the morning is Quinta da Regaleira. It’s a massive property located next to Pena Palace, built around 1910.

The property takes a while to visit completely, as there is many things to see: a palace, a chapel, the initiation well you can see on the picture above, a lake, a grotto, …

Tip: don’t forget to grab the map when you enter, it’s very well made and will help you find your way in this massive park

Price: Adult Ticket 8€ / Child Ticket 5€

Opening times: October to March – 9:30am to 5pm / April to September – 9:30am to 7pm /

 

4. Cabo da Roca

cabo da roca lisbon 4 days itinerary

 

Make sure to grab lunch before the rest of your Sintra day trip. The first spot of the afternoon is Cabo da Roca, the westernmost part of mainland Europe.

I loved exploring the area around Cabo da Roca; the cliffs look amazing!

Tip: grab a coffee at the local restaurant, and go downstairs for a seat with a grand view on the ocean!

Website: This tour will take you to Cabo da Roca

 

5. Praia da Ursa

praia da ursa 4 days in lisbon portugal

 

Praia da Ursa is one of my favorite beaches in Portugal, and definitely my favorite beach in Sintra. I mean, just look at the picture above! Can you see these tiny people on the beach? Yes, that’s how massive the rock formations are!

You can either stay on top of the cliffs, and take in the views, or go all the way down to the beach (warning: it’s a steep and long hike)

Tip: don’t forget your swimsuit 😉

 

6. Azenhas do Mar

azenhas do mar lisbon 4 days itinerary

 

The last stop of our Sintra day trip is the small village of Azenhas do Mar. The village is built on top of the cliffs, and it looks absolutely incredible.

The best view of the village is from the parking lot along the cliffs: park your car, walk a few meters, and enjoy watching the sun set over the ocean.

Tip: you can swim in the ocean pool below the village

Price: free

Opening times: always open

 

So there you have it, your 4 days in Lisbon itinerary. In addition to the three days spent exploring Lisbon to the fullest, you’ll also go on a Sintra day tour from Lisbon, to discover the stunning castles and beaches of the coast.

If you have more than 4 days, click here to complete your trip thanks to my list of the best things to do in Lisbon in winter!

 

Download your free map for the 4 days in Lisbon itinerary here:

4 Days Maps

 

Shortening your stay in Lisboa

If you have to shorten your stay for some reasons, don’t worry, I got you covered. I’ve made 2 shorter Lisbon itineraries to help you if this happens. Even if these itineraries are shorter, I’ve made sure you could enjoy it to the fullest. 

Keep scrolling to download the free maps! 

 

One Day in Lisbon

So you have only one day in Lisbon. And you want to see everything.Well, you better wake up at 4:00 am and run around like a headless chicken all day trying to see all the sights. Just kidding, don’t actually do that. 

During my first visit to Lisbon, I also had only one day in the city. My advice? Pick a few sights and pace yourself.

Here’s what to see in Lisbon in a day:

  • 9:30 – Cristo Rei
  • 11:00 – Torre de Belém
  • 11:45 – Padrão dos Descobrimentos
  • 12:30 – Lunch + Pastéis de Belém takeaway
  • 2:00 – Ascensor da Bica
  • 2:45 – Elevador da Santa Justa
  • 3:15 – Arco da Rua Augusta
  • 3:30 – Praça do Comércio
  • 4:00 – Lisbon Cathedral
  • 4:30 – Miradouro de Santa Luzia
  • 5:00 – Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte

Click here to get your one day in Lisbon itinerary map: 1 Day Map

 

2 Days in Lisbon – Itinerary

So you’re planning to spend two days in Lisbon (weekend getaway?), and you’re trying to figure out what to see in Lisbon in 2 days. Don’t worry, it’s enough to discover the city; you’ll be able to see the most iconic sights of the city, as well as a few hidden gems.

Here’s what to do in Lisbon in 2 days:

  • Day 1: West Lisbon
    • 9:30 – Cristo Rei
    • 11:00 – Torre de Belém
    • 11:45 – Padrão dos Descobrimentos
    • 12:30 – Lunch + Pastéis de Belém takeaway
    • 1:30 – Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
    • 2:00 – Igreja Santa Maria de Belém
    • 3:15 – Basílica da Estrela
    • 4:15 – Ascensor da Bica
    • 5:30 – Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View
  • Day 2: Lisbon City Center
    • 9:30 – Miradouro de Santa Luzia
    • 10:00 – Lisbon Cathedral
    • 11:00 – Praça do Comércio
    • 11:15 – Arco da Rua Augusta
    • 11:45 – Elevador de Santa Justa
    • 1:00 – Lunch
    • 1:15 – Convento do Carmo
    • 2:15 – Castelo de Sao Jorge
    • 3:45 – Panteão Nacional
    • 5:00 – Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte

Click here to access the free map for this 2 days in Lisbon itinerary here: 2 Days Map

 

How to Get Around

For your 3 days in Lisbon, there are 2 cards you can consider to save money: the Lisbon Card, and the Via Viagem.

Via Viagem: 

This is the public transportation card. This will allow unlimited transports for 24h.

  • Cost: 6.40€  / 9.50€ to add ferry rides
  • More info: Via Viagem

Lisboa Card:

This card will allow unlimited transports for 24h, like the Via Viagem. In addition, it includes free entry to attractions and museums.

 

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Find below my best Lisbon accommodation recommendations. Choose the best one depending on your travel style and budget (all of them are perfectly located to execute any of the itineraries above).

💰 Best Budget: Host Bell Rooms and Suites

Very cheap accommodation, around 14€ per night for a bed in a 12 beds dorm room. This hostel has the best location, it’s right next to the main square, and everything is within walking distance. There’s also tea and coffee machines in every room, which is a big plus.

🚀 Comfy: Lost Lisbon: Avenida House

Very comfy rooms, with private bathroom, for around 78€ per night.The two nice bonuses? It’s within walking distance of the city center, and it also comes with a free breakfast!

⭐️ Luxury: The One Palacio da Anunciada

If you’re looking for the perfect dreamy place to relax and enjoy your stay in Lisbon, look no further. The One Palacio da Anunciada might very well be your favorite place in the city; private bathroom, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, indoor pool and even a sauna! It also has breakfast included, and its location is hard to beat.

Not satisfied with these options? Find more great hotels in Lisbon in this guide.

 

How Much Time in Lisbon

Wondering how much time to stay in Lisbon? Although Lisbon city center can be visited in 2 days, I personally recommend to spend 4 days so you can visit a bit more than just Lisbon. Here’s what you can do in Lisbon for 1 to 4 days: 

One day in Lisbon: you will have time to see the main sights, but you will feel rushed. If you have a choice, I definitely recommend staying more than one day.

2 days in Lisbon: In 2 days in Lisbon, you will discover the main sights without feeling rushed. It’s a good starting point, and a weekend in Lisbon is definitely a good way to see Portugal capital city. Still, you’ll miss out on the hidden gems of the city.

3 days in Lisbon: For me, 3 days in Lisbon is exactly how many days you need in the city. You’ll be able to take your time, leisurely stroll the streets, discover the main sights as well as the hidden gems of Lisbon.

4 days in Lisbon: While I said above that 3 days in Lisbon is perfect, if you’re planning your trip I highly recommend booking 4 days. Why 4 days in Lisbon? Because you’ll have 3 days in Lisbon (in the city), and you’ll have extra time to plan a day trip from Lisbon (I recommend going to Sintra).

 

sunrise at santuario nacional de cristo rei lisboa

 

Great Tours to Take in Lisbon

There are a lot of different ways to explore Lisbon. You might like to walk all day, or drive, or bike. Maybe you’re interested in museums, maybe only in ancient buildings, maybe in street art.

Either way, I’ve put below the best Lisbon tours, depending on the kind of experience you’re looking for:

 

1. Hop-on Hop-Off Lisbon Bus

Explore all areas of Lisbon with several tours: double-decker bus tours, boat tour, and even historical tram tours.

This tour is great because it allows you to join several tours with the same ticket. You’ll also have access to all public transports with the same ticket.

Bonus: this ticket is valid for 3 days!

Check it out here: Hopon Hop-Off Lisbon Tour

 

2. Discover Lisbon Street Art

Are you a street art fan? Find all of the hidden gems of Lisbon with this walking tour, that will take you through the colorful streets of Lisbon in search of the beautiful street art.

Bonus: tours are conducted with small groups

Check it out here: Lisbon Street Art Tour

 

lisbon sunset from a boat tour

 

3. Private Walking Tour

This private tour around Lisbon will take it one step further than the itineraries I suggested above. You’ll stroll through the streets of Lisbon, while learning more about the rich history of the city.

Bonus: includes Pastel de Nata and Wine tasting!

Check it out here: Private 3 hours walking tour

 

4. Try Electric Biking in Lisbon

Don’t feel like walking through the steep streets? This Hills Tour by electric bike is the perfect option to see the city with minimum effort.

Bonus: a guide will be with you on the tour

Check it out here: Electric Bike Tour

 

5. Lisbon Day Trip

Don’t have a car? Don’t worry, you can still go on a day trip from Lisbon. This tour is the perfect option for a day trip: it will take you the Sintra (where you’ll visit Pena Palace and the National Palace), Cabo da Roca, and even Cascais.

Bonus: admission to Pena Palace is included

Check it out here: Lisbon Day Trip

 

3 days in lisbon itinerary

 

Useful Tips for Your Lisbon Trip

Here a a few things you should know before going to Lisbon + discover my other Lisbon travel guides if you need more to plan your trip.  

 

What to Know Before Visiting Lisbon

To help you make the most out of your visit, I’ve put together a list of useful tips:

  • most monuments are closed on Sundays – adjust your visits according to this info
  • if you take the trams, be careful of pickpockets – put your valuable in zipped pockets, and keep your bag in front of you
  • the tip is already included in the bill in restaurant – tip only if the service was above and beyond

Read more: Discover more facts about Lisbon

 

More Useful Readings to Visit Lisbon 

You can find below several other articles about Lisbon to help you prepare your trip:

Visit Lisbon:

Choose your Lisbon home:

You can also check all my Portugal travel guides here. 

 

I hope you enjoy your trip to Lisbon and to Portugal! If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.