3 Days in Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal. We only had 3 days in the city as it was part of our Spain-Portugal trip. So in this guide, you will find the absolutely must things to see in Lisbon. So, plan your trip to Lisbon with ease and make the most of your time by following our itinerary for 3 Days in Lisbon.
Day 1
Visit the Belem Tower
The Belem Tower (Portuguese: Torre de Belém) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is well-known for its elaborate architecture and extensive history and is a significant landmark in the city.
Early in the 16th century, the Belem Tower was erected as a ceremonial entrance to the city and a defensive fortress. It is an illustration of the Manueline architectural style, which is distinguished by ornate embellishment and the usage of themes and symbols from the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
The tower has a moat surrounding it and is situated on the banks of the River Tagus. With several chambers and rooms on each level, it has three primary floors. With elaborate carvings, frescoes, and other works of art, the tower’s interior is lavishly adorned.
Visitors are welcome to see the Belem Tower, a well-liked tourist attraction. It is an excellent spot to learn about Lisbon’s history and gives expansive views of the city and river.
It is important to keep in mind that the Belem Tower may get quite busy, especially during the busiest travel times. It is a good idea to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon if you want to escape the throng. To avoid standing in line, it is also a good idea to buy your tickets in advance.
Opening Hours
The tower is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from June to September during the summer and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from October to May during the winter. On some occasions, such as January 1, Easter Sunday, and December 25, the tower is closed.
Tickets
As of 2021, admission to the Belem Tower costs €6 for adults, €3 for kids and teenagers (6-17), and nothing for infants under the age of six. Additionally, there are discounted rates for organizations, elders, and students. Tickets can be bought at the tower or in advance online.
Explore the Alfama District
In the heart of Lisbon, there is a historic district called the Alfama District. It is a well-liked location for both visitors and residents because to its winding alleyways, vibrant homes, and lively environment.
One of Lisbon’s oldest districts, the Alfama District has a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is renowned for its meandering lanes that are dotted with quaint shops, eateries, and pubs as well as its classic Portuguese architecture.
The National Pantheon, Lisbon Cathedral, and São Jorge Castle are just a few of the significant sites that can be found in the Alfama neighborhood. The city’s historical and cultural legacy may be seen in part through these landmarks.
Along with having many pubs and clubs that stay open late, the Alfama District is well-known for its cultural attractions and thriving nightlife. Numerous typical Portuguese bars can be found in the area, where you may sample regional cuisine and beverages while listening to live music.
Getting a sense of the neighborhood’s culture and way of life is made easy by exploring the Alfama District on foot. Also recommended are some typical Portuguese dishes and beverages like pastéis de nata and ginjinha (a cherry liqueur).
Visit the Jerónimos Monastery
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Jerónimos Monastery (Portuguese: Mosteiro dos Jerónimos). It is a stunning monastery renowned for its elaborate construction and extensive history.
Early in the 16th century, King Manuel I of Portugal constructed the Jerónimos Monastery in an effort to build a significant memorial to the Age of Discovery. The monastery was constructed in the Manueline style, which is distinguished by lavish decorating and the utilization of symbols and themes connected to the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
Vasco da Gama’s grave, along with other significant pieces of art and architecture, can be seen inside the Jerónimos Monastery. A museum that explores the monastery’s past and cultural relevance is also located there.
The monastery is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., however, it is closed on some occasions, such as January 1st, Easter Sunday, and December 25th.
Take a ride on the tram
Taking a ride on one of Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams is a great way to see the city and get around. Trams travel on the streets and offer a unique perspective of the city, which you might not get from a car or a bus. You can see the city’s landmarks and neighborhoods from a different angle and get a feel for the local culture and way of life. It is also a memorable way to experience the city. Riding on a tram is a fun experience, and something that you will likely remember long after your visit to Lisbon.
Visit the São Jorge Castle
The São Jorge Castle (Portuguese: Castelo de São Jorge) is a major landmark in the city and is known for its rich history and beautiful views.
The São Jorge Castle was originally built in the 11th century to defend the city from invaders. It was later expanded and renovated over the centuries, and it has a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Manueline.
The castle is located on a hill in the center of the city and offers panoramic views of the city and the river. It is surrounded by a moat and is accessed via a drawbridge.
The São Jorge Castle is home to a number of museums and exhibitions that showcase the history of the castle and the city of Lisbon. It is also a popular venue for outdoor concerts and other events.
The São Jorge Castle is open to the public, and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and it is closed on certain holidays, including January 1, Easter Sunday, and December 25.
Take a stroll along the waterfront
In Lisbon, strolling along the shoreline is a wonderful way to see the city and take in the scenery. It’s a terrific spot to unwind, take in the views, and experience the local vibe, and the waterfront area is a well-liked site for both visitors and residents.
Numerous attractions and sites may be found in Lisbon’s waterfront region (mentioned above).
The waterfront area is home to a variety of eateries, cafés, and bars in addition to the monuments, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a meal or drink. Along the shore, there are also a lot of parks and green areas that are great for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Day 2
Visit the Gulbenkian Museum
It houses a collection of artwork, relics, and other priceless items from all around the world, including pieces by Rembrandt, Monet, and Rodin.
Calouste Gulbenkian, an Armenian-British philanthropist, created the Gulbenkian Museum in the late 1950s and gave his personal art collection to the institution. The museum is renowned for its varied and eclectic collection, which features artwork from many different historical periods and cultural backgrounds.
The Gulbenkian Museum has two main structures: the Main Building, which holds the permanent collection, and the Modern Art Center, which houses a collection of modern and contemporary art. It is situated in a lovely park.
Tourists and art enthusiasts frequently visit the Gulbenkian Museum, which is accessible to the general public. It’s open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day, however it’s closed on specific holidays like January 1 and December 25.
At the Gulbenkian Museum’s ticket counter or online through the museum’s website, visitors can purchase tickets. The Main Building, which has the permanent collection, and the Modern Art Center, which has a collection of modern and contemporary art, are both accessible with the purchase of a single ticket.
There are several ticket options available, including a single ticket, which grants access to the museum for one day, and a multi-day ticket, which grants access to the museum for multiple days. Children under the age of 6 are admitted to the museum for free.
There are also several discounts available for students, seniors, and families.
Explore the Chiado District
It is a well-liked destination for both visitors and residents alike due to its reputation for its food, shopping, and cultural activities.
It is an excellent area to buy fashion, jewelry, and other upscale items because it is home to several high-end stores and boutiques. Additionally, there are many excellent eateries and coffee shops, making it a fantastic opportunity to sample some regional cuisine and beverages.
Take a tour of the port wine cellars
An excellent method to discover how port wine is made and sample several varieties is to go to a port wine cellar.
Portugal’s Douro Valley is where port wine, a fortified wine, is made. It has a rich flavor and deep color since it is prepared from red grapes and matured in wood barrels.
Lisbon is home to a number of port wine cellars, several of which provide tours and tastings. These excursions frequently include a trip to the cellars, where you can observe how the wine is matured and learn about the manufacturing process. Additionally, you will get the chance to sample a selection of port wines, including tawny, ruby, and vintage port.
Numerous tour options, including guided tours, tastings, and food and wine pairings, are available at the majority of port wine cellars. These excursions are a fantastic opportunity to discover more about port wine and get a taste of the way of life there.
Visit the Rossio Square
Located in the center of Lisbon, (Portuguese: Praça de Dom Pedro IV) is a major square. It is a well-known city landmark and is significant historically and culturally.
Both visitors and residents like visiting Rossio Square, which is an excellent spot to unwind, observe people, and take in the neighborhood vibe. A number of significant landmarks can be found in the plaza, including the Rossio Train Station and the Dona Maria II National Theatre.
In addition to its attractions, Rossio Square is home to a variety of stores, eateries, and cafés that make wonderful locations to unwind with a drink or meal. The area is a favorite location for musicians and street performers, and it’s a terrific site to see live entertainment.
Walk along the Rua Augusta Arch
Known for its elaborate architecture and lengthy history, the (Portuguese: Arco da Rua Augusta) is a triumphal arch and a significant landmark in the city.
In order to commemorate the city’s recovery from the Great Earthquake of 1755, the Rua Augusta Arch was constructed in the late 18th century. It is an illustration of neoclassical architecture and is embellished with several sculptures and reliefs that reflect events in Portuguese history.
The arch is a well-liked location for taking pictures and is a fantastic location to get a feel for the way of life and culture of the area.
Visit the Lisbon Cathedral
The 12th-century Lisbon Cathedral has undergone several modifications and additions over the ages. Its construction is a combination of Romanesque and Gothic, and statues, frescoes, and other artwork are scattered throughout.
The tomb of Saint Vincent of Saragossa, one of Lisbon’s patron saints, is one of several significant religious relics housed in the Lisbon Cathedral. A museum that highlights the cathedral’s history and cultural significance is also located there.
It’s open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day, however it’s closed on specific holidays like January 1 and December 25.
Day 3
Explore the Bairro Alto District
Visit the Bairro Alto neighborhood if you want to get a taste of the local culture and nightlife in Lisbon. Numerous pubs, clubs, and music venues can be found in the area, making it a perfect site to sample the nightlife of the city.
The Chiado Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos are just a few of the cultural landmarks in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, which is also known for its nightlife. It also has a lot of stores, eateries, and cafés that are ideal locations to unwind and take in the vibe of the neighborhood.
Visit the National Tile Museum
It houses an assortment of tiles from the 14th to the 20th centuries and is devoted to the study of tile history and art.
An excellent approach to learning about the tile industry and the cultural relevance of this significant aspect of Portuguese history and legacy is to visit the National Tile Museum if you have an interest in art, history, or design. The museum houses a sizable collection of tiles from several historical eras and artistic movements, providing a singular view of Portuguese tile art and history.
The National Tile Museum is housed in a stunning convent from the sixteenth century and has a range of exhibitions, including the permanent collection of tiles and a number of transient exhibitions that highlight the work of modern artists.
It’s open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day, however it’s closed on specific holidays like January 1 and December 25.
Take a trip to the beaches of Cascais or Estoril
Popular seaside towns Cascais and Estoril are situated close to Lisbon on the Portuguese Riviera.
The picturesque seaside town of Cascais is well-known for its stunning beaches, intriguing old town, and exciting nightlife. The town has a number of swimming, tanning, and surfing-friendly beaches, such as the Praia da Conceiço, Praia do Guincho, and Praia da Ribeira.
The Praia do Tamariz beach and the bigger beach resort town of Estoril are both well-known. There are other additional beaches in the town, including the Praia do Estoril and the Praia da Poça.
Both Cascais and Estoril are well-liked vacation spots for both tourists and residents, and they provide guests with a variety of services and amenities. Both towns are home to a number of restaurants, cafés, and bars, as well as a range of stores and cultural activities, in addition to their beaches.
When to visit
Lisbon has a moderate climate with mild winters and scorching summers, making it a year-round travel destination. The ideal time to visit Lisbon, however, will depend on your own interests and the experiences you intend to have while there.
The summer months (June to August) may be the ideal time to visit Lisbon if you want to enjoy outdoor activities or time at the beach. The city experiences long, bright days and seasonal temperatures that can reach up to 30°C (86°F). The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months may be preferable if you like milder weather because of the more temperate temperatures. Lisbon is an excellent place to visit year-round, even in the colder and rainier winter months of December to February.
If you prefer a more relaxed, low-key visit, then you might want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall), when the crowds are smaller.
Lisbon has a number of festivals and events all year long, and the time of year you visit will affect what you may see and do. For instance, the Lisbon Book Fair is held in May, while the Festa de São João (Saint John’s Festival) is a well-known occasion that occurs in June. You should probably make travel arrangements if you wish to attend a certain event or festival.
Additional Information
Lisbon is typically seen as a more economical travel option than other European cities. The cost of living there is lower than in many other European cities, and it is possible to find good value for your money in terms of accommodation, food, and activities.
Nevertheless, the expense of your trip to Lisbon will vary depending on a variety of elements, such as your preferred mode of transport, the season of your visit, and your personal preferences.
Lisbon’s Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto neighborhoods are the most favored ones.
The Baixa neighborhood, which is in the city’s heart, is well-known for its ancient buildings and convenient position. If you wish to be close to the city’s famous sites and attractions, such Rossio Square and the Rua Augusta Arch, this is an excellent area to stay. A lot of eateries, cafés, and stores can be found in the Baixa neighborhood, which is also an excellent area to get a feel for the local way of life.
Known for its bohemian vibe and cultural attractions, the Chiado neighborhood is situated in the city’s heart. If you enjoy dining out, shopping, and learning about the culture of the area, it is a terrific spot to stay. A multitude of theaters, art galleries, museums, and stores can be found in the Chiado neighborhood, along with a variety of dining options.
The neighborhood of Bairro Alto is well renowned for its exciting nightlife, hippie vibe, and cultural attractions. If you want to experience the nightlife and culture of the city, this is a terrific spot to stay. A large selection of stores, eateries, and cafés can be found in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, along with a variety of pubs, clubs, and music venues.
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