Having explored Lisbon several times ourselves, we’ve put together this guide to help you experience the very best of Portugal’s capital in three unforgettable days. Three days in Lisbon is the perfect balance – it gives you enough time to enjoy the city’s history, vibrant neighborhoods, amazing food, and cultural treasures, without feeling rushed.
Lisbon’s charm lies in its different districts, each with its own character. From the winding alleys of Alfama to the monumental squares of Belém and the trendy creative hub of LX Factory, every part of the city feels unique yet connected.
Let’s walk through a 3-day Lisbon itinerary that blends the old and the new, the iconic and the hidden gems. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to spend three days in Lisbon and why the city will leave you wanting to return.
Day 1: Exploring the Alfama District
Sunrise at Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Start your Lisbon journey at Miradouro de Santa Luzia, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the city. Overlooking the Alfama terracotta rooftops and the Tagus River, this spot is framed by pergolas and bougainvillea, providing a picturesque setting for sunrise photos. The early morning light bathes the ancient buildings in a warm glow, setting a peaceful tone for the day.
Pastéis and Coffee
A short walk from the viewpoint leads you to a local pastelaria, where you can enjoy a traditional Lisbon breakfast. Savor a ‘tosta mista’ (ham and cheese toastie) alongside a freshly squeezed orange juice and a robust espresso, typical of the hearty breakfasts favored by locals.
Lisbon Cathedral and Arco da Rua Augusta
From there, visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), a striking Romanesque church that has stood for centuries. Entry costs only €5 and it’s a must-see for history lovers. Continue down to Arco da Rua Augusta, the triumphal arch that leads into Praça do Comércio, a grand square on the riverfront where you can soak in Lisbon’s maritime history.
Castelo de S. Jorge
End your morning with a visit to Castelo de S. Jorge, located on a commanding hilltop with sweeping views of Lisbon. Explore its ancient battlements and camera obscuras that offer a panoramic look at the city.
Exploring Alfama Roots and Fado Houses
In the afternoon, wander through Alfama’s narrow streets, where laundry hangs from balconies and the sound of fado drifts from small restaurants. Don’t miss the São Vicente de Fora Monastery, decorated with stunning blue-and-white azulejos.
Lunch Time
For a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine, try a typical ‘tasca’ where you can savor dishes like ‘bacalhau à bras’ (shredded cod with potatoes and eggs) or ‘bitoque’ (a steak served with an egg on top).
Always check for the ‘prato do dia’ – a daily special that often represents the best value, combining quality, flavor, and local tradition in one plate. Additionally, consider dining slightly earlier or later than the traditional Portuguese lunchtime rush, typically around 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Sunset and Dinner in Bairro Alto
As the sun sets, make your way to the vibrant Bairro Alto. Enjoy the sunset from the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, which offers stunning views over the river and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
In Bairro Alto, you’ll find an array of dining options to suit every taste. Restaurants like Tapa Bucho, Valdo Gatti Pizza Bio, O Trevo, and Jam Club offer diverse culinary experiences, from tapas to organic pizzas and local favorites.
Additionally, if you’re looking to enjoy a drink before the day ends, there are plenty of bars to choose from. Groove Bar, Bubbles, and Catmandoo Bar are just a few spots where you can unwind with a refreshing cocktail or a local wine, perfectly encapsulating the lively Lisbon nightlife.
Day 2: Belém, MAAT, and LX Factory
The Best Pastel de Nata
No visit to Lisbon is complete without trying the pastel de nata. Head to Pastéis de Belém, where the iconic Portuguese custard tart was originally created. Enjoy a warm pastel de nata straight from the oven, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, alongside a cup of coffee.
Belém Tower
Begin your exploration at the Belém Tower, a symbol of the Age of Discoveries and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This fortified tower, built in the early 16th century, stands at the mouth of the Tagus River and was originally designed to defend Lisbon.
The architectural style is a stunning example of the Portuguese Manueline style, characterized by elaborate sculptural details and maritime motifs. Climbing the narrow internal staircase rewards visitors with magnificent views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
Jerónimos Monastery
A short walk from the tower brings you to the Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This grand monastery is one of the most prominent examples of the Manueline style architecture in Portugal. It was built in the 16th century to commemorate Vasco da Gama voyage to India.
The monastery’s cloisters are intricately detailed, featuring columns richly adorned with carvings of maritime elements, botanical motifs, and historical figures, reflecting the era’s wealth and the exploratory spirit.
Tip: Both Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery can get very crowded. Arrive as early as possible to avoid long waits.
MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology
Conclude your morning with a visit to the MAAT, a striking modern addition to Lisbon’s cultural scene, situated on the banks of the Tagus River. This museum combines art, architecture, and technology in a contemporary space designed to reflect and react to the changing role of museums in society today.
The building itself is a work of art, featuring a sleek, futuristic design that offers a stark contrast to the historic sites of Belém. The exhibitions inside are dynamic and thought-provoking, showcasing both Portuguese and international artists who explore contemporary issues through innovative mediums. Pick up your ticket in advance!
LX Factory
Take a break for lunch. After that, head to LX Factory, an industrial complex turned vibrant cultural hub. Browse through its eclectic boutiques, art studios, and bookshops. Don’t miss Ler Devagar, a bookstore known for its vast selection of books and striking interior, featuring a flying bicycle hanging from the ceiling.
Sailing on the Tagus River
End your day with a relaxing sailboat cruise on the Tagus River, enjoying the city skyline at dusk. We booked a sunset catamaran cruise that included drinks. It was an amazing experience, and it’s something I recommend to all my friends who travel to Lisbon. You can check availability here!
Day 3: Discovering Sintra
Day Trip to Sintra
Journey to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its enchanting landscapes and fairytale palaces. This lush, green retreat from Lisbon provides a scenic backdrop for exploring some of Portugal’s most iconic historical sites.
The Moorish Castle
Start your visit at the Moorish Castle, or the Castle of the Moors, which dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries. Perched on a high ridge, it was originally constructed during the Arab occupation of the Iberian Peninsula.
The castle’s rugged walls and preserved watchtowers offer breathtaking views over Sintra and the surrounding countryside. Walking along the battlements, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, as the castle’s strategic position offers an unbroken panorama that has been used for surveillance and defense throughout the ages.
Pena Palace
Continue your day with a visit to Pena Palace, one of the most spectacular examples of 19th-century Romanticism in the world. This palace stands atop a rock in the second highest point of Sintra mountains, and is visible from Lisbon on a clear day.
The palace is a riot of color with its red, yellow, and blue facades adorned with Moorish and Manueline motifs. Inside, the rooms are restored to reflect the decor of 1910, when the Portuguese nobility fled to Brazil to escape the revolution.
The surrounding Pena Park is equally mesmerizing, with hidden paths, exotic plants, and ornate fountains, reflecting the extravagance of the Portuguese royal family.
Dinner
We recently enjoyed dinner at Bengal Tandoori Sintra Restaurant, a culinary gem we stumbled upon in Sintra. Our meal consisted of Butter Chicken, rice and peas, garlic naan bread, and baked tortellini. The experience was nothing short of spectacular.
What made the dinner even more delightful was the pricing—extremely reasonable at only €40 for our meal including drinks. The service at Bengal Tandoori was also exceptional, friendly and attentive, contributing to an overall fantastic dining experience.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free day trip, consider booking a guided tour to Sintra. These tours typically include visits to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Quinta da Regaleira, Pena Palace, and the charming village of Cascais. This is a convenient way to explore these must-see attractions without any planning on your part. Check availability and book your tour here!