Planning a trip to a new city can feel overwhelming, but with this guide, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable four-day adventure in Lisbon. The Portuguese capital is a city where old-world charm meets modern energy. Its narrow cobblestone streets, golden rooftops, colorful tiled buildings, and river views make it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, a foodie, or someone who just wants to soak up the city’s unique vibe, Lisbon has plenty to offer. This 4-day Lisbon itinerary brings together must-see attractions, local experiences, and hidden gems, so you can explore with confidence and excitement.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Lisbon
Start your Lisbon trip in the very center of the city. Here, you’ll find grand squares, iconic landmarks, and the oldest neighborhoods that tell the story of Lisbon’s past.
Rua Augusta and Praça do Comércio
Begin with a walk down Rua Augusta, a lively pedestrian street full of cafés, souvenir shops, and street performers. Look up at the buildings to admire Portugal’s traditional tiles and wrought-iron balconies.
Your walk will lead you to Praça do Comércio, the city’s grand riverside square. Once the gateway for ships arriving from distant colonies, it is now one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks. For a stunning view, climb the Arco da Rua Augusta and take in the sweeping panorama of the square and the Tagus River.
Alfama District and Lisbon Cathedral
From here, wander into Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Its maze of narrow lanes is filled with pastel-colored houses, tiny shops, and the sound of traditional Fado music drifting from local restaurants.
While in Alfama, stop at the Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral). Built in the 12th century, this Romanesque-style cathedral is one of Lisbon’s oldest monuments, with a peaceful cloister worth exploring.
Tram 28 Ride
Catch the famous Tram 28. This vintage yellow tram rattles through most picturesque streets of Lisbon. It’s not just a tourist attraction but a journey through the city’s history, passing through various popular neighborhoods and offering a glimpse of daily Lisbon life.
On my first visit to Lisbon, buying this pass was a real highlight. It included a ticket for the iconic Tram 28, complete with an audio guide explaining its history, a 24-hour public transport pass, access to the Santa Justa Lift, and unlimited rides on the city’s cable cars. Be sure to secure your ticket today!
Castelo de S. Jorge
Alight at Castelo de S. Jorge, which dominates the Lisbon skyline. Wander around the ancient battlements and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. The castle’s grounds are also perfect for a peaceful break away from the city bustle.
Entry to the castle costs 15€, and you can enrich your experience by opting for an audio guide at a minimal extra charge. This guide provides all the crucial information about this famous site. Get yours now!
View from Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Just a short walk from the castle is the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. This lookout offers one of the best views of the Alfama rooftops, the river, and beyond. It’s beautifully tiled and often has buskers playing, adding to the ambiance.
Evening in Bairro Alto
Finish your first day in Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s lively nightlife district. During the day, it’s quiet, but after sunset, the streets fill with music, laughter, and locals heading to bars and Fado houses. Have dinner here and enjoy Lisbon’s vibrant evening scene.
Day 2: Belém and Lisbon’s Golden Age
Your second day takes you west to Belém, an area famous for its historic monuments and ties to Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
Pastéis de Belém
Start your morning with Lisbon’s most famous treat: the pastel de nata (custard tart). Head to Pastéis de Belém, where these pastries have been baked since 1837. Fresh from the oven, dusted with cinnamon, they’re a must-try.
Belém Tower
Walk off your breakfast to Torre de Belém (Belem Tower), an iconic symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of the Manueline style, adorned with maritime motifs.
Tip: To avoid long lines, which can lead to waits of up to two hours even with pre-booked tickets, try to get there early in the morning.
Jerónimos Monastery
Nearby is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery), another UNESCO site. This monastery is a highlight of any Lisbon visit, with its stunning architecture and the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
The entrance fee is 18€, but be aware that long lines are possible, even with advance ticket purchases.
MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
Continue to the MAAT, a modern museum focusing on art, architecture, and technology. Its striking building contrasts beautifully against the historic backdrop of Lisbon, offering both innovative exhibitions and spectacular river views. Make sure to secure your ticket ahead of time!
LX Factory
For lunch, head to LX Factory, a trendy spot tucked under the 25 de Abril Bridge. This industrial complex has been transformed into a creative hub of restaurants, shops, and galleries. It’s a great place to see a different side of Lisbon’s culture.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina
End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a popular viewpoint for watching the sunset over the Tagus River. It’s a relaxing place to reflect on your day with a drink from the nearby kiosk.
Day 3: A Magical Day Trip to Sintra
No 4 days in Lisbon itinerary is complete without a trip to Sintra, just 40 minutes by train. Nestled in the hills, this town looks straight out of a fairy tale with palaces, castles, and lush gardens.
Pena Palace
Your first stop should be Pena Palace, a colorful Romanticist castle perched on a hill. Painted in red, yellow, and blue, it looks like something from a fantasy movie. Inside, you’ll find richly decorated rooms, while outside, the gardens are a peaceful place for a stroll.
Moorish Castle
Just a short walk away is the Moorish Castle, dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries. The castle’s rugged walls and steep staircases offer a vigorous climb, but you’re rewarded with some of the best panoramic views over Sintra and its surrounding forests.
Sintra Village
Spend the afternoon wandering through Sintra village. Its charming streets are lined with traditional shops, quaint cafes, and several notable sites like the Sintra National Palace.
Don’t miss local pastries like travesseiros (puff pastry filled with almond cream), best enjoyed at the historic bakery Piriquita.
If you haven’t rented a car, there’s no need to worry. We opted for an organized tour, which included visits to Regaleira, Pena, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. With a knowledgeable guide providing essential insights at each location, it was a standout experience. Be sure to book your spot on this memorable tour when planning your Lisbon itinerary.
Day 4: Modern Lisbon and River Views
Your final day is all about discovering Lisbon’s modern side while still soaking in the beauty of the river.
Torre Vasco da Gama
Start your final day at the Torre Vasco da Gama, the tallest structure in Lisbon located in the modern Parque das Nações district. It offers a fantastic lookout to see the Vasco da Gama Bridge stretching across the Tagus.
Walking in Parque das Nações
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Parque das Nações, which is also home to some of the most striking contemporary architecture in Lisbon. This area was revitalized for the Expo ’98 and has since become a symbol of the city’s forward-looking spirit.
Oceanário de Lisboa
Don’t miss the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Its main tank recreates the open ocean, with sharks, rays, sunfish, and colorful schools of fish all swimming together. Penguins and sea otters add extra charm, making this a hit for all ages.
Tip: Avoid the wait by purchasing a skip-the-line ticket for the Oceanário de Lisboa at the regular price.
Tagus River Cruise
In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Tagus River. This is a perfect way to see Lisbon from a different perspective, capturing views of the city’s historical facades against the backdrop of rolling hills.
The standout experience I discovered was a sunset cruise along the Tagus River, complete with a beverage, offering stunning views of the city’s illuminated landmarks. I highly recommend this tour. You can buy your tickets here!
Walking in Chiado & Pink Street
After your cruise, walk through the chic neighborhood of Chiado. This area boasts a mix of old-world charm and upscale shops. Continue down to Pink Street, an area known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful street.
Time Out Market
End your four days in Lisbon at the Time Out Market, a bustling food hall where you can try dishes from some of Lisbon’s best chefs all in one place. From fresh seafood to modern twists on Portuguese classics, it’s the perfect way to toast your trip.
👉 To make the most of your time, consider buying the Lisboa Card. This pass includes unlimited public transport, free entry to many attractions (including Jerónimos Monastery and the Lisbon elevators), and discounts at museums and restaurants. It’s available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, and it’s a smart way to save both time and money.