Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital, offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and modern charm. Known for its scenic hilltop views, colorful tile-covered buildings, historic trams, and delectable pastries, Lisbon enchants travelers with its warmth and vibrancy. With 3 days in Lisbon, you’ll have the perfect amount of time to explore the city’s iconic sights, enjoy the local food, and even take a day trip to the enchanting town of Sintra.
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Why Visit Lisbon?
Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital, is a city of contrasts—where old-world charm meets modern vitality. Known for its scenic hilltop views, vibrant tile-clad buildings, historic trams, and iconic yellow funiculars, Lisbon offers an eclectic mix of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re wandering through its historic districts, soaking in the stunning vistas from its famous miradouros (viewpoints), or savoring the local cuisine, Lisbon offers something for every traveler.
With 3 days in Lisbon, you’ll get a taste of its unique character: a blend of Mediterranean warmth, Atlantic breeze, and a colorful past. Highlights include the Gothic architecture of the Alfama district, the majestic Belém area, and the trendy cultural hubs like the LX Factory. If you want to explore beyond the city, a quick day trip to the fairytale town of Sintra is also a must.
Getting to Lisbon
Lisbon is a well-connected European city that’s easy to reach from most parts of the world. Here are some ways to get there:
- By Air: Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is the main international gateway to the city, located just 7 km from the city center. Numerous airlines offer direct flights to Lisbon from major cities across Europe, North America, and beyond. You can often find cheap fares from across Europe and the eastern United States with TAP Air Portugal.
- By Train: If you’re traveling within Portugal or neighboring countries, you can reach Lisbon by train. Santa Apolónia Station and Gare do Oriente are the city’s two major train stations, connecting Lisbon with cities like Porto, Madrid, and even Paris. Santa Apolónia is the closes
- By Car: Lisbon is easily accessible by road, but be mindful of the city’s narrow streets and limited parking. Renting a car is a great option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas like Sintra or the beaches nearby.
- By Bus: Long-distance bus services connect Lisbon with various cities in Portugal and Spain, offering an affordable and comfortable option for travel.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Lisbon
Morning: Visit to Belém
Start your three days in Lisbon with a trip to the historic neighborhood of Belém, located about 6-7 kilometers (3.7-4.3 miles) west of Lisbon’s city center. Belém is renowned for its monuments and rich maritime history, making it the perfect place to begin your Lisbon adventure. It’s a scenic district that is home to some of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks. Belem is easily accessible from central Lisbon by train, tram, bus, taxi or even bike.
- Jerónimos Monastery: Start your day at Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take your time to explore the beautiful cloisters and learn about Portugal’s maritime history.
- Belém Tower: A short walk from the monastery, you’ll find the Belém Tower. This fortress once guarded Lisbon’s harbor and is another UNESCO site. The scenic views along the Tagus River make it a prime photo spot.
- Pastéis de Belém: Don’t leave Belém without trying the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) from Pastéis de Belém, where the recipe has remained a secret for centuries. Enjoy these delicious treats fresh from the oven!
Midday: Discover the Alfama Neighborhood
After soaking up the history in Belém, head to Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district. This charming neighborhood is known for its labyrinth of narrow streets, steep hills, and historic buildings.
- São Jorge Castle: Perched high above the city, São Jorge Castle offers sweeping panoramic views of Lisbon. Wander through the ancient fortress and take in the beautiful sights of the city below.
- Alfama Streets: Alfama is a neighborhood best explored on foot. Take time to stroll through its winding streets, stop by small cafés, and admire the beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles) on the buildings.
- Lunch at a Local Tasca: Alfama is full of traditional tascas (small family-run restaurants), where you can enjoy a hearty Portuguese meal. Try local specialties like grilled sardines or bacalhau à brás (a codfish dish).
Afternoon: Explore the Chiado District
After lunch, continue your journey by heading to the chic Chiado district, known for its blend of historic charm and modern sophistication.
- Café A Brasileira: Start with a coffee at Café A Brasileira, one of Lisbon’s most iconic cafés. Grab a bica (espresso) and perhaps another pastel de nata as you soak in the artistic atmosphere.
- Convento do Carmo: Visit the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Convento do Carmo, a Gothic convent that was partially destroyed during the 1755 earthquake. Today, the open-air structure serves as a museum and a reminder of the city’s resilience.
- Shopping in Chiado: Chiado is home to a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to local artisan stores. Make sure to visit Livraria Bertrand, the world’s oldest bookstore, located right in the heart of the district.
Evening: Dinner and Fado in Bairro Alto
As night falls, head to the Bairro Alto district for dinner and to experience Fado, the soulful music that is synonymous with Lisbon’s culture.
- Dinner in Bairro Alto: Bairro Alto is packed with excellent restaurants, ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international offerings. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
- Fado Music: After dinner, visit one of the many Fado houses in the area to listen to this hauntingly beautiful genre of music. Popular spots include Tasca do Chico and A Baiuca.
Day 2: Delving Deeper into Lisbon’s Culture
Morning: Rossio Square and Baixa District
Start your second day in the bustling Baixa district, Lisbon’s downtown area, where you’ll experience the vibrant energy of the city.
- Rossio Square: Begin at Rossio Square, one of Lisbon’s main squares, known for its wave-patterned cobblestones and lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a morning coffee and some people-watching.
- Elevador de Santa Justa: From Rossio, take a short walk to the Elevador de Santa Justa, a neo-Gothic elevator that provides stunning views of the city. The elevator itself is a beautiful piece of architecture, and the panoramic views from the top are worth the ride.
- Rua Augusta Arch and Praça do Comércio: Continue your stroll through Baixa by walking down Rua Augusta, a pedestrian street lined with shops and cafés. You’ll eventually reach the grand Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s impressive waterfront square with views of the Tagus River.
Afternoon: Visit the LX Factory
In the afternoon, make your way to LX Factory, an industrial complex turned creative hub that is full of art, shops, and great food.
- Explore LX Factory: Wander through this trendy space, checking out the street art, quirky shops, and cool cafés. It’s a great spot for picking up unique souvenirs or enjoying a laid-back afternoon.
- Livraria Ler Devagar: Don’t miss Livraria Ler Devagar, one of the most Instagrammable bookstores in the world, located within LX Factory. It’s a book lover’s paradise, with towering shelves and a dreamy atmosphere.
Evening: Sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
For the evening, head to one of the city’s most famous viewpoints to take in the sunset.
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: This viewpoint offers some of the best panoramic views over Lisbon, particularly at sunset. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but the reward is worth it. Bring a bottle of wine and some snacks, and enjoy a relaxing evening as the sun sets over the city.
- Nightcap at Pink Street: After the sunset, head to Pink Street, one of Lisbon’s most famous nightlife spots. Grab a drink at one of the many bars and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Day 3: A Magical Day Trip to Sintra
On your final day, escape the city for a magical day trip to Sintra, a fairytale town just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train. Sintra is known for its stunning palaces, lush gardens, and mystical atmosphere. Note that Sintra can be a popular place for tourists, so it is highly advised to get there early in the morning to experience the most.
The best way to get to Sintra is by train from Lisbon. Head to Rossio station and grab a ticket to Sintra there. The journey is classified as an urban route, so you can’t buy tickets ahead of time. There are plenty of seats on the trains, however Sintra is also a very popular place with tourists, so it is strongly advised to get an early morning train to beat the crowds both on the train and in Sintra.
Morning: Visit Pena Palace
Start your day in Sintra with a visit to Pena Palace, one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks.
- Pena Palace: This vibrant and whimsical Romanticist palace sits high on a hill overlooking Sintra. The colorful architecture and the palace’s intricate details make it feel like something straight out of a fairytale. Be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds.
Midday: Explore Quinta da Regaleira
After Pena Palace, head to the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical estate filled with hidden tunnels, gardens, and the famous Initiation Well.
- Quinta da Regaleira: The estate’s mysterious charm is perfect for exploration. Wander through its secret passages, lush gardens, and the spiral staircase of the Initiation Well, a must-see site in Sintra.
Afternoon: Lunch and the Historic Center of Sintra
Once you’ve finished exploring, head back to the historic center of Sintra for lunch and some downtime.
- Lunch in Sintra: The town is full of quaint cafés and restaurants. Try some local pastries like travesseiros or queijadas, which are Sintra specialties.
- Explore Sintra’s Old Town: After lunch, take a walk around Sintra’s picturesque old town. The narrow cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and charming shops make for a delightful afternoon stroll.
Evening: Return to Lisbon
Head back to Lisbon by the late afternoon. Spend your final evening relaxing or doing anything you might have missed on the first two days. Grab a drink at one of the many rooftop bars across the city and watch the sunset on your final night in this rich cultural country.
For a fun experience, we recommend heading to the Time Out Market in Lisbon for a fun food hall experience with excellently curated storefronts.
Optional Experiences
If you have some extra time or want to add a little more excitement to your Lisbon adventure, consider these optional activities:
- Tuk-Tuk Tour of the City: Want to see Lisbon quickly and efficiently? Hop on a Tuk-Tuk tour. These small, motorized vehicles are a fun way to navigate the city’s narrow streets and hills, offering a unique perspective on Lisbon’s landmarks.
- Spinach Tours for an Electric Drive-Yourself Adventure: If you prefer to be in the driver’s seat, check out Spinach Tours, where you can rent a small, electric car for a self-guided adventure around Lisbon. It’s a great way to explore the city at your own pace and discover hidden gems. We had fun on our Spinach Tour adventure and loved the freedom of being able to drive at our own pace.
- Ride the Historic Trams: Lisbon’s iconic trams are a must-experience. Tram 28 is particularly famous for its route through some of the city’s most charming neighborhoods, including Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. Riding the tram is not only a convenient way to get around but also offers a unique perspective on Lisbon’s hilly streets and historic architecture.
- Visit the Beach at Praia de Mata: If you’re craving some sun and sand, head to Praia de Mata, a beautiful and expansive beach near Lisbon. While the water can be chilly, the soft, golden sand and relaxing atmosphere make it a perfect spot to unwind. It’s an excellent option if you’re visiting during the warmer months and want to escape the city for a bit.
- Try Pastel de Nata at Manteigaria – Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata: While you’ve likely already tried the famous Pastéis de Belém, another must-try is the pastel de nata from Manteigaria. Many locals swear by these custard tarts, often considered the best in the city. At around just €1.30 each, they’re a delicious and affordable treat. They have a number of locations around Lisbon including at the Time Out Market, in Barrio Alto and also Chiado. Just find one close to you!
- Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River: For a magical experience, take a sunset cruise along the Tagus River. This relaxing boat ride offers unparalleled views of Lisbon’s skyline, including the 25 de Abril Bridge and Belém Tower, all while enjoying the golden hour from the water. It’s the perfect way to end a day in Lisbon. You can enjoy sunset cruises from various operators from around €30.
Wrapping Up Your Lisbon Adventure
3 days in Lisbon is a good amount of time to experience the city’s unique mix of history, culture, and modern charm, while also enjoying a magical day trip to Sintra. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and delicious food will capture your heart.
In short, three days in Lisbon gives you a balanced itinerary—one that lets you dive into the city’s vibrant culture, experience its iconic landmarks, and indulge in its culinary delights while also allowing for some flexibility and downtime. This city is a place where the old and new harmoniously coexist, and every corner has a story waiting to be told.
Lisbon’s easy-going pace, combined with its rich history and contemporary energy, makes it an ideal destination for any traveler. Whether you’re drawn to the architecture, history, food, or just the laid-back vibe of the city, Lisbon has something for everyone. Even after exploring its must-see attractions, you’ll likely find yourself eager to return, if only to walk its cobbled streets again, listen to Fado in a tiny café, or catch one more glimpse of the city from a miradouro at sunset.
You’ll find plenty of things to do here, and you may want to return or even stay longer than 72 hours. From the many alleyways and shops, to day trips and fun experiences, Lisbon has a lot to do that can’t be covered in a short 3 day trip. Experience the culture and come back for more!
