Welcome to Lisbon, a city where vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes come together to create an unforgettable travel destination. If you’re planning a short trip, this Lisbon 3-day itinerary will ensure you make the most of your visit, covering the must-see destinations including Belem, Castelo São Jorge, Alfama, Bairro Alto, and the magical town of Sintra.
Day 1: Unveiling History in Belem and Bairro Alto
Start your Lisbon trip in Belem, a district located to the west of the city with some of the most famous landmarks. To get to Belem, I recommend taking the tram 15E from the station right in front of Arco da Rua Augusta in downtown Lisbon. Get off at Largo da Princesa station and head to Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbour. Nearby, you’ll find the Monument to the Discoveries, a tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration.
A short walk from the Belem Tower you will find the Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO site renowned for its stunning Manueline architecture and the tomb of famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. If you want to visit either of these sites from the inside, make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in queues for too long as these sites can get quite crowded (being the most popular sights in the city). You can book your ticket to enter Belem Tower here (price is 9 euros) and the tickets for the Jerónimos Monastery can be booked here (the entrance fee is 15 euros). After exploring these historic sites, you cannot leave Belem without indulging in the famous Pastéis de Belem, a traditional custard tart that’s been served in Belem since 1837.
In the afternoon, explore Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s bohemian district. Stroll through its lively streets filled with shops, cafes, and street art. Visit the Church of São Roque to see its lavishly decorated interior, then take a ride on the Elevador da Bica for a fun and picturesque journey through the neighborhood.
As night falls, Bairro Alto comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant and then experience the district’s buzzing bars and live music venues.
Day 2: Exploring the Heart of Lisbon
Start your second day in downtown Lisbon at Praça do Comércio. Enjoy a scenic breakfast at one of the many outdoor cafes overlooking the river Tagus. After breakfast, climb up Arco da Rua Augusta, one of Lisbon’s iconic buildings for a unique view of the city. On one side, you can enjoy stunning views of Praça do Comércio and the surrounding buildings while on the other side you will be able to admire one of the busiest streets in Lisbon’s city centre, Rua Augusta and its neighbouring streets of Baixa. The ticket to climb Arco da Rua Augusta costs 5 euros (book here) and the stairs are quite narrow and steep, so be prepared for a tight climb.
Inspired by city views, head to Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon. First, visit the Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé, the city’s oldest church. After that, take a long, slow walk through the narrow, winding streets of Alfama, where each corner reveals charming houses and hidden gems. Make sure to explore plenty of hidden streets as sometimes the most authentic cafes can be tucked away and almost out of sight.
Climb up to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for breathtaking views over Alfama and the Tagus River. Enjoy a short lunch break in the nearby restaurants to really indulge in the spectacular scenery of Alfama. After a break, head to another viewpoint, this time Miradouro de Santa Graça for a total 360-degree view of Lisbon’s old town.
In the afternoon, head to Castelo São Jorge, Lisbon’s most famous castle that is perched high above the city. This historic castle offers panoramic views of Lisbon and is steeped in history. Wander through its ancient walls and gardens, and learn about the city’s past at the on-site museum. Make sure to stick around until sunset where you will be able to enjoy colourful houses turn to gold from one of the best viewpoints in the entire city.
After a day of walking and enjoying city views, end your day with a traditional Fado dinner at one of Alfama’s intimate restaurants, where the soulful music will transport you to another era.
Day 3: A Day Trip to Sintra
No Lisbon 3-day visit is complete without a day trip to Sintra. Just a short train ride away (approximately 30 minutes) from Rossio train station, Sintra is a fairy-tale town known for its palaces and lush landscapes. Once there, it is possible to visit some attractions on foot, however, if you want to visit some of the more remote palaces, I recommend purchasing a hop-on hop-off bus travel pass to not lose time on transport.
Start your visit at the Pena Palace, a colourful and eclectic palace, perched on top of a hill that offers stunning views over the region. The admission costs 20 euros but it is worth it for the views alone.
Next, visit the Quinta da Regaleira, a gothic-style estate with mysterious gardens, hidden tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well. The admission for this palace costs 12 euros. Wander through the grounds and discover the enchanting details that make this place so magical. If you don’t feel like organising a day trip yourself, you can opt for a guided small-group day tour with pick-up directly from Lisbon city centre. It will cost you a bit more but it will be hassle-free.
After a day of exploration, return to Lisbon for a scenic boat ride over the river Tagus. Reflect on your adventures as you watch the sunset, marking the perfect end to your Lisbon journey.
