3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary: BEST Things to Do, See & Eat!

Excited to get the most out of your 3 days in Lisbon? With this 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary, youโ€™ll soak up enough beautiful sights and bold flavors to leave you smitten with Portugalโ€™s ancient capital city.

With 3 days in Lisbon, youโ€™ll wander glossy limestone-tiled streets and marvel at impressive architecture and magnificent Baroque churches. Youโ€™ll try classic Portuguese pastries (hello, pastel de nata!), sip on local wine, and people-watch in bustling city squares.

Stunning view of Lisbon from a miradour - in this 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary, you will find many opportunities to soak in amazing views!

Youโ€™ll savor stunning sunsets over the sparkling Tagus River and go back in time as you explore the colorful Pena Palace.

You’ll sample authentic eats – from bacalhau and peixe grelhado to queijadas and travesseiros – and delight in traditional Fado music

Plus, youโ€™ll explore Lisbonโ€™s best neighborhoods – and find your favorites! And these are just a few of the best things to do in Lisbon in three days.

Azulejo tiles in Lisbon - the architecture is gorgeous there!

Consider this Lisbon 3-Day Itinerary your guide to a perfect trip to Lisbon. From the best places to stay, the top Lisbon attractions, where to eat, and everything else in between, this Lisbon itinerary has you covered!

Ready for the most magical 3 days in Lisbon? (Or Lisboa, in Portuguese!)

Want a printable copy of this itinerary? Click here.

Want a printable PDF of this Lisbon Itinerary?

A tram traveling along a colorful street in Lisbon, Portugal

How to Get to Lisbon

Before we get to the good stuff (like the best things to do in Lisbon), the important stuff. Logistics

Via Airplane

Once you arrive at the Lisbon Airport, navigating to the city center is easy. There’s a direct metro line from the airport to Baixa. Hop on the “Aeroporto > Saldanha” line and you’ll reach downtown Lisbon in about 20 minutes. Make sure to snag a Lisbon Card so that all of your public transportation trips are free! You can also call an Uber or Bolt car; driving also takes about 20 minutes, barring traffic.

Via Train

If you’re taking the train to Lisbon from elsewhere in Portugal or Spain, you will likely get off at Lisboa Santa Apolonia station in the Sรฃo Vicente district of Lisbon. From there, you can either walk to your hotel, hail a taxi, hop in an Uber or Bolt, or take public transportation. Most likely, your hotel will still be a 20-minute walk away, if you’re staying in Baixa.

Via Bus

If you’re bussing to Lisbon, you will likely end up at Estaรงรฃo do Oriente (Lisbon Oriente) station in the Parque das Naรงรตes area. From Oriente, the journey to Baixa will take about 25 minutes via taxi and at least 30 minutes via public transport (including a change or two along the way).

Best Lisbon Neighborhoods to Explore

About half-a-million people live in Lisboa (Lisbon in Portuguese), across many different Lisbon neighborhoods within the โ€œcity of seven hills.โ€ Each neighborhood in the Portuguese Capital radiates beauty and antiquity (did you know that Lisbon predates Rome by four centuries?), and features an eccentric balance of street art and classical architecture.

The following neighborhoods are the main ones you will explore with this 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary.

  • Baixa: Itโ€™s no secret that Baixa is the most prominent neighborhood in all of Lisbon! Fancy the cityโ€™s most popular monuments, squares, and attractions by wandering the heart of Lisbon. AKA Baixa Pombalina, Lisbon Downtown, and Lisbon City Centre.
  • Bairro Alto: This shabby-chic neighborhood is becoming recognized for offering more than just a night out. Relish in the unique gastronomic offers, art galleries, and street art that make up this historic hill.
  • Chiado: Nestled in between Bairro Alto and Baixa is the quaint, luxurious neighborhood of Chiado, where thereโ€™s no shortage of boutique hotels, clothing stores, cafรฉs, and dining experiences.
  • Alfama: The oldest and most romantic neighborhood in Lisbon, (possibly all of Europe?). Alfama offers rich history and delightful mirador views among its many steep hills.
  • Belรฉm: Come here for the original pastel de nata, but stay for the museums, churches, and significant historical sites.
A colorful street corner in Lisbon -  in this 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary, you will explore the city a lot on foot to take in the beautiful and historic sights

Where to Stay in Lisbon

With only 3 days in Lisbon, itโ€™s important to stay in a central location so you can take breaks between sightseeing. Baixa (Downtown), is the city center, making it a convenient base for exploring all of Lisbonโ€™s major attractions. Due to its historical reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake, the Downtown is in line to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Baixa is the most popular neighborhood to stay in, and makes using this three-day Lisbon itinerary a breeze!

The Brown's Central Hotel is the best place to stay if you have 3 days in Lisbon!

Brownโ€™s Central Hotel

Situated in the core of Lisbonโ€™s Pombaline Downtown (Baixa) is Brownโ€™s Central Hotel, my #1 hotel recommendation in Lisbon. This historic 18th-century building is brimming with old-world charm, chic luxuries, and artistic flair.

Head to the hotelโ€™s vintage-style bar and lounge to enjoy your welcome drink – a tangy, warm concoction of lemon juice, passion fruit purรฉe, and almond liqueur – simultaneously timeless and unique, like the hotel itself. Welcome to Brown’s Central Hotel!

Mixologist at The Brown's Central Hotel

Retreating to a plush king-size bed, opulent white-marble bathroom (complete with a robe and slippers – the best!), in-room Nespresso machine, and flat-screen smart TV was a fabulous way to end long, incredible days of Lisbon exploration.

To complete my suite at Brownโ€™s Central Hotel: soundproofing, blackout curtains, and a Marshall Stanmore speaker – a nice touch. 

But my favorite part about Brownโ€™s Central Hotel is the sumptuous breakfast spread. Definitely opt for the included breakfast when you book! Itโ€™s the best hotel breakfast Iโ€™ve ever had, bar none. After a restful night of sleep, head down to breakfast with your pre-coffee coffee in hand, and youโ€™ll be ready to take on the steep hills of Lisbon. 

Click here to book your fabulous stay at the Brownโ€™s Central Hotel. I promise, youโ€™ll be glad you did!  

Luxury hotel room at The Brown's Central Hotel

Best Luxury Hotels in Lisbon

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Lisbon

Best Budget Accommodation in Lisbon

Ready to book your 3 days in Lisbon? Click here to find the best deals on Lisbon hotels! Most accommodations on this site offer free cancellation too, so there’s no harm in diving right in!

Get a Lisbon Card

Before you arrive in Lisbon, do yourself a favor and buy a Lisbon Card online. The card includes free public transportation – including free admission to the Santa Justa Lift and all of the elevators and funiculars.

You also gain free access to the LISBOA Story Center, Chiado Museum, Convent do Carmo Archaeological Museum, Sintra Palace, Rua Augusta Arch, Pena Palace & Park, Belem Tower, and more. 

Click here to purchase your Lisbon Card! Youโ€™ll love all the savings, promise.

The St George Castle in Lisbon, lit up at night

Best Things to Do in Lisbon in 3 Days

Phew! Now that the logistics are out of the way, let’s talk about the best things to do in Lisbon.

This Lisbon Itinerary for 3 Days covers everything from the best things to do in Lisbon, day trips, a variety of fabulous restaurants and bars, historic sights to see, and so much more.

Thereโ€™s a seemingly endless amount of sights to see and food to eat in and around the captivating city of Lisbon.

That said, donโ€™t feel like you need to do everything! Feel free to follow this Lisbon itinerary to a T, or use it loosely to create the Lisbon city break of your dreams.

Day 1 of 3 Days in Lisbon

Start your first day in Lisbon with a culinary walking tour, then get the lay of the land from above the city at Sรฃo Jorgeโ€™s Castle.

Admire the tiled buzzing city streets and squares, visit beautiful churches, and take in panoramic views. Youโ€™ll learn some of Lisbonโ€™s history along the way!

HOT TIP: Want a printable copy of this itinerary? You can get yours here!

1. Take a Food Tour

If you prefer to get to know new places through your tastebuds (same!), then consider taking a Lisbon Food Tour!

On either of the foodie tours below, youโ€™ll explore downtown on foot, visit some of the cityโ€™s best eateries, and savor 16+ tastings of traditional Portuguese food and drink, all with a local expert guide. From iconic pastel de nata and local wine, to bacalhau and peixe grelhado, you’re in for a real, authentic treat!

Choose one of these food tours:

You have multiple start-time options, so you should be able to squeeze in your foodie tour on Day 1.

All of these tours sell out well in advance, so make your booking ASAP!

Saint George's Castle in Lisbon - a must see during 3 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon Itinerary includes all of the best things to do, see, and eat!

2. Visit the Castelo de Sao Jorge (Saint Georgeโ€™s Castle)

Snag a coffee and a traditional Portuguese pastry at the historic and iconic Confeitaria Nacional, in Praรงa da Figueira (just a few minutes walk from Brownโ€™s Central Hotel). Then, hop on the 737 bus in the square, and head up to the historic Moorish castle, Castelo de Sรฃo Jorge.

Seated at the top of the Alfama district is the Sรฃo Jorge Castle, watching over the entire city. The backbone of Lisbonโ€™s history – with structural origins dating back as early as the 1st century BC – this is the site where famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, returned after his legendary voyage to India. (Youโ€™ll learn more about Vasco de Gama on the morning of Day 3, in Belรฉm.)

Familiarize yourself with the heritage of Lisbon at the castleโ€™s museum, Nรบcleo Museolรณgico, then climb one of the great towers of the castle. You may stumble upon a camera obscura! Enjoy the gardens, grab a pastry (and water!) at the Cafรฉ do Castelo, or simply enjoy sweeping city views from the Castelo de Sรฃo Jorge viewpoint!

Miradouro Santa Luzia in Alfama, Lisbon - a must see during 3 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon Itinerary includes all of the best things to do, see, and eat!

3. Take the Scenic Route to Alfama

On your way down from the castle, take the scenic route and stop at these breathtaking lookouts in the steep streets of Alfama:

  • Torre da Igreja do Castelo de Sรฃo Jorge – climb the tower and ring the bell for (5 euros)
  • Miradouro das Portas do Sol
  • Miradouro de Santa Luzia

4. Stroll Around Alfama

A labyrinth of alleys draped with drying laundry leads you through Lisbonโ€™s renowned and romantic Alfama neighborhood.

After an active morning at the castle, Alfamaโ€™s quaint cafes with shaded dining areas offer the perfect place for a walking break. (And a glass of wine.) 

Alfama hosts many historical monuments and epic churches, but also some of the steepest hills in town! Pace yourself, and feel free to kick back and people-watch rather than feel like you need to see it all.

Visit Sรฉ de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)

As you roam Alfama on foot… The oldest and most well-known cathedral in all of Lisbon, the Sรฉ de Lisboa, is a must-see!

After youโ€™re done touring the inside, head across the street and wait for the iconic 28 tram to arrive in front of the Lisbon Cathedral so you can snap one of the most photographed moments in Lisbon!

While youโ€™re there, take a gander at Igreja de Santo Antรณnio (St. Anthony’s Church), said to be built at the site of St. Anthonyโ€™s birth!

Sao Miguel church in Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal
Other Alfama Must-Sees

If youโ€™re up for it, take a 15-minute walk east to explore these other notable, historic sites in Alfama:

  • Igreja e Mosteiro de Sรฃo Vicente de Fora (Church and Monastery of St. Vincent): The largest collection of baroque tiles in the world is found here, impressive!
  • Panteรฃo Nacional (National Pantheon): Youโ€™ll be wowed by the gorgeous pantheon, where the tombs of adored Portuguese heroes and important figures rest. (Free entry with your Lisbon Card!)

Both the Pantheon and the Church of St. Vincent have miraculous views from the top!

The busy Rua Augusta pedestrian street in Lisboa

6. Head to Baixa (Downtown/City Centre)

Next up, Baixa! The beating heart of downtown Lisboa.

As you make your way from the Alfama district to the historic Baixa district, youโ€™ll notice the streets flatten out, and the curved alleys become linear. Welcome to Pombaline Downtown!

After the infamous earthquake, fire, and tsunami of 1755, the Pombaline District was rebuilt by the 1st Marquis of Pombal (Sebastiรฃo Josรฉ de Carvalho e Melo), whose earthquake-preventative design you see today is highly revered!

On your way to our first major square, Praรงa do Comรฉrcio, do yourself a favor and stop into Brunch Cafรฉ for an almost-too-perfect-to-eat acaรญ bowl. Next door, take a moment to appreciate the ornate ceiling of Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceiรงรฃo Velha. (I know youโ€™ve already seen a lot of churches today, but this is captivating!)

P.S. Find all of my top cafรฉ, restaurant, and bar recommendations toward the bottom of this 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary!

Rua de Augusta arch in a prominent square in the capital of Lisboa

7. Stop by Praรงa do Comรฉrcio (Commerce Square)

Youโ€™ve made it to Lisbon’s monumental Praรงa do Comรฉrcio, or Terreiro do Paรงo, as the Lisbonites call it. This plaza is easily the most-recognized and reflects the pride of the Lisbon people and kingdom after the devastation of the 1755 earthquake.

Standing as the grand entrance to Lisbon, Commerce Square is where explorers and merchants planned their sea voyages to Asia, and where they returned home carrying goods like exotic spices.

  • Take a photo here with the Equestrian Statue of King Dom Josรฉ I
  • Learn more about Lisbonโ€™s past at the Lisboa Story Center (Entry is free with your Lisbon Card. Get your Lisbon Card here!)
  • Walk along the shimmering Tagus River
Intricate carvings of the Rua Augusta Arch

8. Marvel at the Arco da Rua Augusta (Rua Augusta Arch)

Another one of Lisbonโ€™s must-sees is the Rua Augusta Arch, that gorgeous triumphal arch in the background of your photos at the Praรงa do Comรฉrcio. Climb to the top (or take the lift, itโ€™s been a long day!) of the arch for a magnificent view of the plaza and the Tagus River, as well as an up-close and personal look at the detailed carvings on the arch itself. Entry is free with your Lisbon Card.

Inscribed in Latin on the Arco da Rua Augusta is, โ€œThe Virtues of the Greatestโ€: the strength, resilience, and achievements of the Portuguese people.

This arch is the gateway to the lower city of Lisbon, and a structure youโ€™ll likely pass under more than once. Now, youโ€™ve finally made it to Lisbonโ€™s busiest pedestrian street, the Rua Augusta!

Rossio Square in Lisboa

9. Spend Time in Dom Pedro IV Square (Rossio Square)

Next, take a stroll down the lively Rua Augusta. Youโ€™re heading for the โ€œliving room of Lisbon”: Dom Pedro IV Square. Cafรฉ breaks and souvenir shopping detours along the way are welcome!

When youโ€™ve reached Dom Pedro IV Square, also called Rossio Square or simply, โ€œRossio,โ€ youโ€™ll know right away. Youโ€™ll love Rossioโ€™s wavy tiled streets, a traditional calรงada portuguesa (Portuguese pavement) style called โ€œLargo Mar,โ€ as well as the squareโ€™s fragrant seafood restaurants and the plethora of adorable souvenir boutiques.

Since the Middle Ages, Rossio in central Lisbon has been one of the most-frequented squares of this amazing city!

Rossio Square features the Column of Pedro IV, a 75-foot (23-meter) column topped with a marble statue of King Peter IV, framed by two majestic baroque fountains. Take a seat and watch the world go by for a little.

Also in Rossio is the Dona Maria II National Theater and the gorgeous Rossio train station.

HOT TIP: Walking around Lisbon takes many hours, so if you prefer to stay off your feet on day one of this Lisbon itinerary, book this Private Half-Day Sightseeing Tour on a Private Electric Tuk Tuk! Youโ€™re guaranteed to see all the must-see sights and explore Lisbon districts like Barrio Alto, Belรฉm, and Alfama. Click here to book your tuk-tuk tour!

10. Sunset at the Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa Lift)

If youโ€™ve followed this Lisbon itinerary more or less, you should be nearing sunset, the best time to ride the Santa Justa Lift. Riding this gothic tower up to one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon is one of the best things to do during three days in Lisbon.

The Santa Justa Lift is Located at the end of Rua de Santa Justa (super close to Brownโ€™s Central Hotel). It was inaugurated as a public transport system back in 1902, and is the fastest way to get from Baixa to Barrio Alto! (And the coolest!)

This wrought-iron elevator stands 147 feet (45 meters) tall, and looks incredibly similar to the Eiffel Towerโ€ฆ Of course, thatโ€™s because it was built by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, an admirer of Gustave Eiffel!

You have to try a pastel-de-nata-inspired cocktail or a glass of wine while you wait in line for the Santa Justa Lift! Donโ€™t miss out on a specialty drink at the little bar โ€œParadoxo.โ€ You keep the mug, too. How cute!

11. Relax, Wine, and Dine at Terraรงos do Carmo

After you’ve taken in one of Lisbonโ€™s magnificent sunsets at the top of the Santa Justa Lift, walk across the bridge and down the stairs to the right to reach the Terraรงos do Carmo (Carmo Terraces) in Chiado. This hidden gem was one of my favorite finds in Lisbon, Portugal!

These special terraces were built after the 1988 fire, and offer beautiful views of Rossio Square and St. Georgeโ€™s Castle. The lower terrace has lounge chairs for relaxation – the perfect spot to watch nighttime in Lisbon come to life! Sometimes, they host movie nights on a projector here, too! Check here for the schedule.

Just above is Carmo Rooftop, restaurant, bar, and event space set between the Santa Justa Lift and the Convento do Carmo (Carmo Convent). A one-of-a-kind location to enjoy a cocktail, tapas, and a night of dancing! Weโ€™ll explore more of Chiado on Day 3 of your three days in Lisbon.

P.S. Find all of my top cafรฉ, restaurant, and bar recommendations toward the bottom of this 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary!

Beautiful view of Cascais in Lisbon

Day 2 of 3 Days in Lisbon

Ready for your second day in Lisbon? Well, actually…

Day 2 is the perfect day to escape the city for a little while! Take a day trip to charming Sintra & Cascais. You can’t miss the amazing Pena Palace!

Colorful Pena Palace in Sintra - a must see during 3 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon Itinerary includes all of the best things to do, see, and eat!

12. Take a Day Trip to Sintra & Cascais

Any Lisbon travel itinerary must include a day trip to Sintra and Cascais! I promise, this is one of the best day trips youโ€™ll ever take.

Hop in an air-conditioned minibus for a private tour of some of Portugal’s most historic and picturesque attractions.

I highly recommend this Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon if you want a skip-the-line (it gets big!), small-group experience, theyโ€™ll handle all the details for you! I loved this tour and wouldnโ€™t hesitate to do it over again!

Click here to book your Sintra & Cascais day trip now! 

Colorful views of Pena Palace
Tour Pena Palace

Your first stop is the colorful Pena Palace. One of Portugalโ€™s Seven Wonders… (Best to just keep your camera out for this whole day!)

Situated in the Portuguese Riviera is Sintraโ€™s Pena Palace, a Romanticist Castle in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. You may be surprised to learn that this vast forest is actually man-made!

During construction in the mid-1800s, King Ferdinand II ordered exotic trees to be planted on over 200 hectares of mountains surrounding the castle. In fact, โ€œpenaโ€ translates to white rock, which is what the National Park started as!

Breathe in the fresh air and admire massive sequoias (from California) and ginkgos (native of China).

Click here to book your Sintra & Cascais day trip now! 

View of historic Sintra, a town in Portugal
Wander Around Sintra

Next, do as the royal families and elites did during the 19th century, and retreat to the endearing town of Sintra, enshrouded in nature with marvelous views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Spend a couple of hours meandering the alleyways and cobblestone streets of Sintra. Pop into the cork stores and purchase a handmade cork souvenir.

Then, stop by a Ginjinha bar to sample sweet Ginjinha (cherry liqueur), and try Queijadas and Travesseiros, two rich, delicate pastries of Sintra.

Cap the visit off in the Olga Cadaval Cultural Center, or do whatever else suits your fancy!

On the hill leading up to this little town, some lovely street vendors offer handmade jewelry, hand-painted cork gifts, and leather goods. Pick up something to remind you of your time in Sintra!

Who doesnโ€™t love a day tour that includes time to roam freely? Click here to book your Sintra & Cascais day trip now! 

Sunny day in Cascais on the Cabo da Roca viewpoint
Admire Cabo da Roca

The next stop on your Sintra & Cascais day trip is Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe! What a rush. Enjoy the fresh Atlantic breeze as you stand atop the monolithic cliffs of Cabo da Roca.

Snap a photo of Portugalโ€™s oldest lighthouse, and take in just how small you are compared to the vastness of the sea. A wonderful memory, plus, you can say youโ€™ve been to the edge of the world!

Soak up the Sun in Cascais

The final stop of this epic day of adventure is Cascais, whose modern vibe starkly contrasts the ancient historical sites youโ€™ve explored so far.

King Luรญs I and the royal family adored Cascais in the late 1800s; they moved here every summer (and I donโ€™t blame them). Thus, what once was a small fishing village became a high-end beachside metropolis.

Of course, Cascais has something you canโ€™t find in the city center: a BEACH! Be sure to bring your suit and a towel, but be prepared; the water is freezing! Of course, thereโ€™s no shortage of delicious food and shopping boutiques – two things you can always count on in Portugal.

P.S. Try the baked sea bass at MIR Restaurant and Bar! The perfect way to end your Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon. Click here to book it now.

13. Check Out Praรงa dos Restauradores

Your Sintra and Cascais day trip tour drops you in Downtown Lisbon, right in Praรงa dos Restauradores: another gorgeous, historic square.

In the squareโ€™s center, youโ€™ll find Monumento dos Restauradores, which stands to commemorate Portugalโ€™s liberation from Spain in 1640. Youโ€™ll also drool over more intricate patterns of Portuguese pavement; so beautiful!

Surrounding the square is an eclectic mix of Art Deco and 17th-century buildings, such as the Teatro Eden (Eden Theatre) and Palacio Foz (Foz Palace).

North of this square is some extremely high-end shopping on the Avenida de Liberdade โ€œLisbonโ€™s 5th Ave,โ€ and south is the familiar Rossio Square.

There are endless restaurants to choose from in these areas, but before you dine, consider taking nearby Funicular de Lavra (Lisbonโ€™s oldest funicular) up to Miradouro do Jardim do Torel for sunset. You only have three sunsets in Lisbon, so why not?

Pastel de Nata in Belem - a must-eat during 3 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon Itinerary includes all of the best things to do, see, and eat!
Pastel de nata at Pastรฉis de Belรฉm

Day 3 of 3 Days in Lisbon

I couldnโ€™t leave a trip to Belรฉm out of this 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary. Youโ€™ve got to see Belรฉm, even if just to say you went to Pastรฉis de Belรฉm!

After touring Belรฉmโ€™s monuments and museums, explore some more of Lisbon downtown on foot, and cap it off with an evening of Portuguese Fado music, traditional food, and wine.

No doubt, your last of 3 days in Lisbon will have you falling deeper in love with this City of Light!

HOT TIP: Want a printable PDF copy of this itinerary? Get it here!

The tower of Belem in Portugal

14. Explore Belรฉm

Hop in a taxi or take the 15 tram to Belรฉm, the popular historic district a few miles west of Lisbonโ€™s city center. Once you get there, the best way to see all the must-see sights in Belรฉm is by joining a free walking tour.

On the tour, or self-guided if you prefer, youโ€™ll hit these spots:

  • Palรกcio Nacional de Belรฉm (Presidential Palace of Belรฉm)
  • Torre de Belรฉm (Belรฉm Tower) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Monastero dos Jerรณnimos (Jerรณnimos Monastery) – UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Padrรฃo dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) – go to the top for views
Visit a Museum in Belรฉm

After the tour, there are a few awesome museums to check out, if it suits your fancy. They include:

  • Museu Coleรงรฃo Berardo (Berardo Collection Museum)
  • Nacional de Arqueologia (National Museum of Archaeology)
  • Museu Nacional de Etnologia (National Museum of Ethnology)
  • Museu de Arte Popular (Popular Art Museum)
The Ponte 25 de Abril in Lisbon - a must see during 3 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon Itinerary includes all of the best things to do, see, and eat!

15. Stop by the Ponte 25 de Abril

On your journey back to Lisbonโ€™s city center, stop at the Ponte 25 de Abril, the famous suspension bridge that looks incredibly similar to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

For a small fee, you can check out the inside, or simply enjoy walking along and admiring the Tagus River (the bridge is not crossable by foot).

Old buildings in Portugal

16. Explore Cais do Sodrรฉ

Next, spend a couple of hours exploring the coastal Lisbon neighborhood of Cais do Sodrรฉ.

Normally visited by partiers due to its vibrant nightlife, this area is also a nice place for an afternoon stroll. Of course, you can always come back at night to party, if you like the vibe!

Pink Street

Bright pink paint has made Pink Street one of Lisbonโ€™s most Instagrammed streets! Itโ€™s also in Lisbonโ€™s former red light district, which hasnโ€™t completely faded away.

Come here for the novelty, but stay for a drink at one of the many happening outdoor bars under the hanging rainbow umbrellas.

The busy Time Out Market in Lisboa
Time Out Market

Okay, the Time Out Market can get super crowded, but for good reason.

Thereโ€™s a myriad of different eclectic foods to try and drinks to sip, as well as fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Daytime tourists have shuffled out of Time Out Market by late evening, so youโ€™ll likely see shorter lines! 

17. Chill Out in Praรงa Luรญs de Camรตes

Need a refreshment or bite to eat? Take the Ascensor da Bica up to Praรงa Luรญs de Camรตes (Luรญs de Camรตes Square) and relax at A Brasileira, one of Lisbonโ€™s best cafรฉs.

While youโ€™re enjoying yourself, have a ponder about life, just like the famous Portuguese poet, Luรญs de Camรตes, would!

Camรตes is Portugalโ€™s most successful and celebrated writer – his work is often compared in quality to that of Shakespeare! His statue in the center of this square is perfectly placed to be appreciated by Lisbonites, since itโ€™s the junction between Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto.

18. Take in the Convento do Carmo Ruins

Next, walk along the Rua Garrett to the somber yet beautiful Convento do Carmo ruins (Carmo Convent). The convent was a Gothic church, intentionally left roofless and in disrepair after the devastation of the 1755 earthquake, tsunami, and fire.

Fascinatingly, the Carmo Convent is also home to the buried wife of Christopher Colombus. Thereโ€™s a small archaeological museum inside to learn more about its history, as well as marvel at ancient artworks that survived the destruction.

The golden intricate details of the Igreja de Sao Roque in Portugal
Image by Isen Majennt

19. Marvel at the Igreja de Sรฃo Roque

If you arenโ€™t bored of churches yet, weโ€™ve saved the best for last. It lies just up the hill from Carmo Convent.

Though the white Neo-Classic exterior of the Igreja de Sรฃo Roque (Church of Sao Roque) may look boring, itโ€™s merely a disguise; what youโ€™ll see inside is astonishing. 

The painted wood ceiling and extravagant gold leaf features are unbelievably gorgeous. This is Portugalโ€™s first Jesuit church and one of the first in the world; it definitely stirs the emotions!

Want a printable PDF of this Lisbon Itinerary?

Sailboat sailing on the Tagus river under the April 25 Bridge at sunset

20. Sunset Sailing Cruise with Green Wine & History

From the 25 de Abril bridge, sail off into the sunset on the rushing Tagus River. On this Sunset Sailing Trip with Wine & History, sip on Vinho Verde while your captain shares stories of times past at the Belรฉm Tower as you float by.

By appreciating the beautiful city of Lisbon from the water, a sunset sailing cruise on the last day of this Lisbon itinerary offers a fresh perspective on your three days in the City of Seven Hills.  

Click here to book your Lisbon Sunset Sailing Experience with Portuguese Wine & History!

A man playing fado music with an amazing view behind him in Lisboa, Portugal
Local Lisbonite playing Fado music in the street

21. Bairro Alto for Fado, Tapas & Dancing

Bairro Alto is undoubtedly where you should spend your last epic night in Lisbon!

First stop is A Tasca do Chico, a traditional Fado (Portuguese music) house. And since Anthony Bourdain went there, weโ€™re going there.

It can get crowded and hot, but if you enjoy lovely melancholic live music, Portuguese wine, and tapas, youโ€™ll enjoy this experience!

To be sure you get a table, either make a reservation or arrive before the music starts at 8:30 pm!

If youโ€™ve got it in you, the bar district in Bairro Alto is absolutely poppinโ€™. You walked through it on your way to A Tasca do Chico, so thereโ€™s no getting lost! You canโ€™t go wrong with just walking into the bar with the best music!

22. Sunrise at Miradouro de Sรฃo Pedro de Alcรขntara

If you’ve been out all night, why not carry on?

This viewpoint is one of Lisbonโ€™s liveliest and most loved. Needless to say, the view here is marvelous – just as much at night as it is in the daytime.

Let yourself be enchanted by the rising sun illuminating the pastel buildings and clay rooftops of eastern Lisbon, all the way from Avenida da Liberdade to the southern part of the Tagus River.

Know your last night in Lisbon was one to remember!

A beautiful acai and fruit bowl at a cafe in Lisboa - a must-eat during 3 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon Itinerary includes all of the best things to do, see, and eat!

Where to Eat in Lisbon in 3 Days

Now to answer the ultimate question: Where should I eat during 3 days in Lisbon? This section has you covered with the best spots for bites and bevvies!

Coffee/Breakfast in Lisboa

  • Augusto Lisboa: Looking for brunch in Alfama? Augusto boasts โ€œVoted 3rd Best Brunch in the World!โ€ Each meal comes with coffee, fresh juice, some toast, and a dessert! Plus, the inside is super cute.
  • Brunch Cafรฉ: A lovely health food cafe by the Praรงa do Comercial in Baixa offering artfully presented toasts, coffees, fruit bowls, sandwiches and classic breakfast plates.
  • Chiado Caffe: This small cafe serves mouthwatering baked goods and coffee drinks without the tourist-trap prices (unlike some of the other downtown Lisbon cafes).
  • Pastรฉis de Belรฉm: Since 1837, this famous bakery has been churning out some of the city’s best pastries and tarts. Of course, you have to try the pastel de nata.

Lunch in Lisboa

  • Lisbon Food Tour: If your idea of an amazing afternoon is a delicious food tour in Alfama with a local foodie expert, then book this Treasures of Lisboa Food Tour.
  • Lisboa Tu e Eu 2: Between sights in Alfama, sit down and feel at home with Maria and her staff as they serve up authentic, home-cooked Portuguese food.
  • Sol E Pesca: Try a Portuguese claim to fame, canned fish! This is a great spot to enjoy an affordable little meal of canned fish (salmon, cod, sardines, many options), wine, and tapas on the patio of the famous Pink Street. 
  • Javรก: Prefer to skip the crowd at Time Out Market? This is your spot. Javรก is a super vibey Mediterranean rooftop restaurant and bar near the popular market. The menu has plenty of savory plant-based options as well!

Dinner in Lisboa

  • Alma: Alma (which means โ€œsoulโ€ in Portuguese) is revered chef Henrique Sรก Pessoaโ€™s two-Michelin-star restaurant. Come here to appreciate worldly, imaginative, avant-garde cuisine. You know itโ€™s going to be good if food legend Anthony Bourdain visited. (Dear vegans, Alma has a fabulous vegan tasting menu!) Of course, you should make a reservation well in advance.
  • Needle in a Haystack: Take part in family-style meals in a cozy little restaurant in Alfama. This dining experience is extraordinary and wonโ€™t break the bank! Needle in a Haystackโ€™s menu includes traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (codfish), as well as some fresh vegetarian bites.
  • Peixaria do Rossio: Sit here for hours ordering different plates of fresh seafood, yummy drinks, and basking in the ambiance of an evening in Rossio Square. Peixaria do Rossio has a central location with great people-watching (and thus, can be a little touristy, but hey, youโ€™re a tourist!).
  • Floresta Das Escadinhas: No frills, impeccable service, and some of the freshest local fish and poultry youโ€™ll find in this fantastic city. Be sure to book your reservation ahead of time!
  • Il Mercato Pรกteo Bagatela: You probably werenโ€™t expecting to have Italian food in the Portuguese capitalโ€ฆ But head a little ways out of Lisbonโ€™s city center and youโ€™ll be swooning over the pasta at Il Mercato Pรกteo Bagatela. 

Bars, Pubs, & Nightlife in Lisboa

  • A Tasca do Chico: A tiny, lively fado (Portuguese music) house, with traditional tapas and local wine. Another place Tony graced with his presence.
  • Friends Bairro Alto: This is easily one of Bairro Altoโ€™s most frequented spots in the bar district. It can get a little crazy because of the strong drinks and loud musicโ€ฆ But thatโ€™s why weโ€™re here, right?!
  • Memmo Prรญncipe Real: Rooftop hop in style at Memmo Prรญncipe Realโ€™s rooftop bar. The chic, minimalist style is the perfect reflection of the high-end neighborhood youโ€™re looking out over. Treat yourself!
  • Carmo Rooftop: This is becoming one of the most happening places to be when nighttime rolls around. Between the amazing views, live music, and community events, youโ€™ve gotta check out Carmo at least once.
  • Red Frog: Ring a doorbell to enter a swanky speakeasy on high-end shopping avenue Avenida Liberdade to indulge in classic or creatively curated cocktails. Treat yourself!
  • Pensรฃo Amor: Vintage velvet chairs, gaudy chandeliers, and fancy cocktails a plenty here in Pensรฃo Amor, a former brothel in the heart of what was Lisbonโ€™s redlight district.

Packing List for Lisbon, Portugal

Facade of an old and beautiful building in Lisboa

3-Day Itinerary Lisbon: Lisbon Travel FAQs

Is 3 days enough for Lisbon?

With three days in Lisbon, you can hit all of the major tourist attractions, as well as pay visits to the historical sites around the city, such as Pena Palace and Sintra. Three days in Lisbon is the perfect amount of time for your first visit in Portugal if you just have one week in the country. If you spend each half-day touring a specific neighborhood, you can get a good grasp on the history and essence of each district. Thereโ€™s a ton to see in Lisbon, but three days is just enough to get you hooked on this City of Light!

Should I go to Lisbon or Porto?

You should go to both Lisbon and Porto, as each city offers its own unique claim to fame. In Lisbon, youโ€™ll find a fast-paced city break, whereas in Porto youโ€™ll find more slow-paced sightseeing. Both Lisbon and Porto have important cathedrals and historic buildings, but Lisbon has significantly more museums, monuments, and historically significant Lisbon neighborhoods. Porto is a nice change of pace from Lisbon, where you can take a break from the city life and enjoy sipping Port wine.

Is Lisbon worth visiting?

Yes, Lisbon is 100% worth visiting. Lisbon has become one of Europe’s top travel destinations – and for good reason! Lisbon has a very intriguing and colorful past to learn about, as well as modern museums, art galleries, and culinary offerings to discover. It is also one of the least-expensive capital cities in Western Europe. Lisbon is worth visiting if not simply to walk along the gorgeous streets of Calรงada Portuguesa while snacking on a traditional pastel de nata pastry.

Is 2 days in Lisbon enough?

Two days in Lisbon is likely not enough time to see all of the popular attractions around the city. If you plan to visit just the city itself, two days is enough to simply visit the neighborhoods, stop at the most popular historical sites, and sample some traditional Portuguese dishes. If you want to venture out to other nearby historical sites, such as Pena Palace in Sintra, then two days in Lisbon is not enough time.

Is 4 days in Lisbon too much?

Four days in Lisbon is not too much. With four days in Lisbon itinerary, you can tour Lisbon and see all the sights you canโ€™t miss, explore the Belem District, and take a day trip to see Pena Palace, Sintra, and the beach at Cascais!ย 

What is the best month to visit Lisbon?

One of the best months to visit Lisbon is October, right after the tourist high-season of summer is over and the weather has cooled down. If you visit in September, you may still find large summer crowds and higher prices. The spring months of March, April, and May are also great times to visit Lisbon, before the high season kicks in! During this time, the weather is mild, rates are lower, and crowds are sparse.

Is Lisbon walkable?

The city of Lisbon is built on seven hills, so though Lisbon is walkable, you will be walking uphill a lot. This makes walking a little bit exhausting, but it doesnโ€™t change the actual distance between neighborhoods, which is not much. Lisbon is definitely a walkable city, but not for those with severe mobility problems. If you don’t want to walk, Lisbon has a great public transportation system – which you can access for free with the Lisbon Card! Get your Lisbon Card here!

Is Lisbon expensive?

Lisbon is one of the more affordable capital cities to visit in Western Europe. You can expect budget-friendly accommodations in hotels and hostel, and reasonable rates for four-star and five-star luxury hotels. Click here to find the best deals on Lisbon accommodations – from hostels and homestays to apartments and hotels. Lisbon has cheap public transportation, and ride-share-apps like Bolt are commonly used. You can easily find budget-friendly dining options by visiting restaurants just outside the vicinity of popular tourist attractions. It’s a good idea to book your trip in advance to secure the best prices and to purchase the Lisbon Card so you can gain free access to public transportation and some of the city’s most popular attractions. Click here to purchase your Lisbon card now!

View of buildings and the Lisbon Cathedral

3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary: The Ultimate 3-Day Guide for First-Timers

After three days of visiting Lisbon, the artful and open-minded energy of this city and its people will have you head over heels!

Lisbon is one of the most affordable, sunny, and welcoming cities to visit in all of Europe. If youโ€™re lucky enough to spend 3 days in Lisbon – basking in the chic luxury of the Brownโ€™s Central Hotel, wandering bustling streets, trying traditional Portuguese cuisine, and taking a day trip to explore the wonders of Sintra and Cascais – Iโ€™m confident youโ€™ll have been put under Lisbonโ€™s spell.

Youโ€™ll leave Lisbon as a connoisseur of buttery Portuguese pastries (Hello, pastel de nata!), and a lover of traditional Fado music. No doubt, youโ€™ll be back to bask in the Lisbon sun again soon enough.

FIND MORE PORTUGAL INSPIRATION HERE!

SAVE THIS LISBON ITINERARY ON PINTEREST FOR LATER!

Visiting magical Lisbon? This ultimate 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary is your guide to the best things to do, what to see, where to eat, and more! With 3 days in Lisbon, youโ€™ll have plenty of time to experience the best of Lisbon - or Lisboa, in Portuguese! From roaming the city on foot and exploring historic sites - like Sรฃo Jorge Caste and Lisbon Cathedral - to trying traditional Portuguese food and drink, you ate in for an amazing time. Click here for the best Lisbon Itinerary!

Maddyโ€™s Avenue spent three days in Lisbon, Portugal as a guest of Brownโ€™s Central Hotel and embarked on this Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon free of charge. As always, our opinions are 100% honest and completely our own. Thank you for your support.

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One Comment

  1. It looks like we have to buy tickets for Pena Palace in advance on their website for a timed entry. However, I was also looking at the Lisbon card, which says it includes admission to Pena Palace. So how do I get timed entry if I’m using my Lisbon card (which I can’t pick up until I get to Lisbon)?

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