3 Days In Lisbon: How To Plan The Perfect Lisbon Itinerary

Discover the best of Lisbon in just 3 days with our expert guide! Explore iconic sites like Belém Tower, indulge in local cuisine, and uncover hidden gems. Plan your perfect Lisbon itinerary now and make every moment count.
3 Days In Lisbon: How To Plan The Perfect Lisbon Itinerary

Having explored Lisbon multiple times ourselves, we’ve distilled our experiences into this guide, designed to capture the essence of this vibrant city in just the right amount of time. Three days in Lisbon strikes the perfect balance, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich history, dive into its dynamic cultural scene, and savor its culinary delights without feeling rushed.

Lisbon charming districts, each with their unique allure, from the historic streets of Alfama to the monumental area of Belém, are interconnected yet distinctly different.

Let’s embark on this journey together, discovering the beauty of Lisbon through a lens that blends historical richness with contemporary vibrancy. Join us as we uncover the best of Lisbon in three unforgettable days.

Travel Tip: Make sure to pick up a Lisbon Card when you visit! It’s an essential tool for any traveler looking to explore the city efficiently. The card provides free entry to many of Lisbon’s top attractions and unlimited use of public transportation, including buses, trams, and the metro. Pick up the Lisbon Card!

Day 1: Exploring the Alfama District

Sunrise at Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Miradouro de Santa Luzia
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

Arco da Rua Augusta
Arco da Rua Augusta

Visit the nearby Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, before making your way to the Baixa district. The ticket costs only 5€.

Walk through the Arco da Rua Augusta, an impressive triumphal arch that leads to the Praça do Comércio. This large, riverside square is one of Lisbon most iconic landmarks and offers fantastic views of the Tagus River.

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

São Vicente de Fora
At the top: São Vicente de Fora

Spend your afternoon meandering through Alfama narrow, winding streets lined with ancient houses. Visit the São Vicente de Fora monastery, which houses a remarkable collection of baroque 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

Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Miradouro de Santa Catarina

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: The Belém and Alcântara Districts

The Best Pastel de Nata

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

Belém Tower
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

Jerónimos Monastery
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 the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery often have long lines and extensive wait times, even if you have purchased tickets in advance. To avoid the crowds, make sure to arrive as early as possible in the morning. This early start will help you maximize your visit and enjoy these iconic sites with less hassle.

MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology

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

Ler Devagar in 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

25th of April Bridge, 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

The Moorish Castle
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

Pena Palace
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.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

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!

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