Embark on a captivating journey through Lisbon, a city where age-old heritage seamlessly blends with lively urban culture.
This 5-day itinerary is meticulously designed to guide you through most iconic sights of Lisbon, from the historic depths of Belém to the panoramic peaks of Sintra.
Discover the enchanting streets, indulge in traditional cuisine, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Portugal sun-drenched capital. Get ready to experience the best of Lisbon, where every step tells a story and every view takes your breath away.
5 day Itinerary in Lisbon
Important tip: Save money while exploring Lisbon by acquiring the Lisboa Card. This card provides free use of public transportation, complimentary entrance to several attractions, and substantial discounts at eateries and stores. Choose from 24, 48, or 72-hour versions. Purchase yours here!
1st Day: Exploring the Historic Heart of Lisbon
Walking in R. Augusta

Kick off your Lisbon adventure with a leisurely walk along Rua Augusta, a lively pedestrian street that runs from the iconic Rossio Square to the Praça do Comércio. This street is not only a shopping haven but also a place to enjoy elaborate street performances and classic architecture, with its patterned cobblestone pavement and the occasional baroque facade.
Praça do Comércio & Arco da Rua Augusta

The Praça do Comércio, historically known as Terreiro do Paço, served as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. The square is surrounded by yellow Pombaline buildings and the U-shaped area opens up towards the Tagus with a statue of King José I in its center. Ascend the Arco da Rua Augusta for a modest fee to see a spectacular aerial view of downtown Lisbon and the river.
Cathedral of Lisbon

Lisbon cathedral, Sé de Lisboa, stands as a testament to various architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic due to numerous modifications over centuries. Don’t miss the cloister, where archaeological excavations reveal layers of Roman, Arab, and medieval ruins.
Museu do Fado
Situated in the atmospheric Alfama district, the Museu do Fado dives deep into the roots of Portugal’s soulful music. The museum includes multimedia displays, recordings, and memorabilia of famous Fado singers like Amália Rodrigues, giving visitors a deeper understanding of this cultural expression.
Castelo de S. Jorge

Dominating Lisbon skyline, Castelo de S. Jorge offers not only panoramic views but also a glimpse into Moorish past of Lisbon. Explore the castle’s ancient walls, towers, and camera obscura, which offers a unique 360° view of Lisbon.
Admission to the castle is 15€, and for a small additional fee, you can enhance your visit with an audio guide that covers all the essential details about this renowned landmark. Purchase it here!
View from Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Cap off the day at Miradouro de Santa Luzia, adorned with tile panels depicting historical scenes and a pergola that frames perfect sunset views over the Alfama rooftops and the Tagus River.
2nd Day: Belém and Beyond
Pastel de Nata at Pastéis de Belém

Start your morning at Pastéis de Belém, where the iconic Portuguese tart was invented. These custard tarts are best enjoyed warm, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, right where they’ve been baked since 1837.
Torre de Belém

The Torre de Belém is a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon and a monument to Age of Discoveries of Portugal. Originally positioned in the middle of the Tagus, it now sits near the shore. The tower’s richly decorated exterior features maritime motifs like ropes and armillary spheres, emphasizing its historical significance.
Tip: Aim to arrive early in the morning since lines can be long, potentially leading to a wait of up to two hours, even with pre-booked tickets.
Jerónimos Monastery

Just a short walk from the Torre de Belém, this monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. It was commissioned to celebrate Vasco da Gama‘s successful return from India. The cloisters are particularly impressive, featuring intricate columns sculpted to include motifs of sea creatures and ships.
The entry fee is 18€, but be prepared for potentially lengthy queues, which can occur even if you’ve already bought your tickets in advance.
MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

The MAAT striking building, with its undulating form that mirrors the river it overlooks, is a work of art in itself. Inside, its exhibitions focus on contemporary culture in various forms, from visual arts to new media installations. Don’t forget to pick up a ticket in advance!
LX Factory

Once an industrial complex, LX Factory has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. This space is filled with art studios, quirky shops, trendy restaurants, and often hosts live music and festivals.
Be sure to visit Ler Devagar, a bookstore renowned for its extensive collection of books and its eye-catching interior, which includes a bicycle suspended in mid-air from the ceiling.
View from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
This garden terrace offers one of the best views of Lisbon, looking out over the castle and central Lisbon. It’s a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, especially at sunset.
Nightlife in Bairro Alto
As night falls, head to Bairro Alto, where a multitude of bars, fado houses, and clubs come alive. The narrow streets here are a perfect place to experience the social tapestry of Lisbon nightlife.
3rd Day: Modern Lisbon and Leisure
Torre Vasco da Gama

Start at the Torre Vasco da Gama, the tallest structure in Portugal, originally built as a beacon for the 1998 Lisbon World Exposition. The tower now functions as a luxury hotel but retains public access to its upper floors, providing a unique panoramic of the Parque das Nações and the river.
Walking in Parque das Nações
Parque das Nações is a modern part of Lisbon that was rejuvenated from industrial wastelands into a sprawling complex with contemporary architecture, gardens, and leisure facilities. It’s ideal for walking along the river, cycling, or just enjoying the open spaces and modern sculptures.
Oceanário Lisboa

The Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, an architectural marvel designed by Peter Chermayeff. It houses a vast central tank and four marine habitats creating the illusion of a single ocean. It’s an immersive experience designed to educate visitors about marine conservation.
Tip: To bypass the queue, consider buying a skip-the-line ticket for the Oceanário de Lisboa, available at the standard price.
Cruise in Tagus

A river cruise on the Tagus offers a different perspective on Lisbon’s landmarks. These cruises can range from short jaunts to extensive tours that provide insights into the area’s history and architecture, often with dining and music on board.
The best one I found was this sunset cruise on the Tagus River with a beverage, cruising past the city’s lit-up landmarks. I strongly recommend this experience. Purchase your ticket from here!
4th Day: A Day Trip to Sintra
Road Trip to Sintra
A 30-minute drive from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale town with lush forests, exotic gardens, and impressive palaces. The scenic drive will take you through winding roads with spectacular views.
Pena Palace

The Pena Palace is a Romanticist castle that stands atop a hill in the Sintra Mountains. Painted in vivid yellows and reds, with Moorish and Manueline motifs, it offers breathtaking views and opulent interior decorations.
Moorish Castle

The nearby Moorish Castle, or the Castle of the Moors, dates back to the 8th century and features rugged ramparts and stone towers that provide a historical counterpoint to the more opulent Pena Palace. The walk along the castle walls is vigorous but rewards with stunning vistas.
👉 If you haven’t rented a car, there’s no need for concern. We secured places on an organized tour that covered Regaleira, Pena, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. The tour included a guide who provided all the vital details about these locations. It was one of the most memorable experiences we had in Lisbon.
Walking in Chiado & Pink Street

Return to Lisbon and wander through Chiado, a chic district known for its boutiques, theaters, and historical cafes like A Brasileira. Finish the day on Pink Street, officially Rua Nova do Carvalho, once Lisbon red-light district, now a vibrant nightlife spot with bars and clubs.
Don’t miss Time Out Market, the market now hosts more than 30 restaurants offering a blend of traditional Portuguese fare and international flavors.
5th Day: The Charm of Traditional Lisbon
Jardim Botânico de Lisboa
Begin your final day at this botanical garden, a peaceful refuge in the heart of the city. Established in the 19th century, it features several greenhouses and collections of tropical plants, making it a lush spot for relaxation and education.
Tram 28

Catch the historic Tram 28, which meanders through Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhoods like Graca, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. It’s a charming way to see the city’s historical sites.
During my initial trip to Lisbon, one of the highlights was purchasing this pass. It provided a ticket for Tram 28, along with an audio guide detailing Tram 28’s history, a 24-hour public transport pass, access to the Santa Justa Lift, and unlimited use of the city’s cable cars. Secure your ticket now!
Walking in Alfama

Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, steep stairways, and quaint squares. Here, you can visit several historic sites, listen to authentic Fado music, and soak up the genuine atmosphere of old Lisbon.
Miradouro da Graça

End your journey at the Miradouro da Graça, which provides one of the most expansive views of Lisbon. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your visit as you look over the city you’ve explored over the last five days.
As our five days in Lisbon come to a close, we hope you’ve fallen in love with the city’s charming streets, vibrant culture, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. From the historic marvels of Belém to the scenic vistas of Sintra, each day has been a new adventure, filled with delightful discoveries and memorable experiences.
We’re thrilled to have been part of your journey through Lisbon and trust that you’ve gathered not only photos but also lasting memories. As you prepare to say “Adeus” to this beautiful city, remember that Lisbon will always have more to explore and enjoy. So until next time, keep the spirit of Lisbon alive in your heart, and come back soon to uncover even more treasures. Safe travels!
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