Portugal\u2019s<\/a> capital city, Lisbon<\/strong>, is one of the most colourful, distinctive and enchanting cities in Europe<\/a> and one of my personal favourites.<\/p>\n The city is such a delight to explore with it\u2019s winding cobblestone streets, colourful tiled facades and stunning miradouros (viewpoints), but as it\u2019s built across 7 hills you\u2019ll want to plan your Lisbon itinerary carefully to get the most out of your time while saving your energy and legs!<\/p>\n I visit Lisbon (or Lisboa as the locals call it) often, as I have friends and family living in Portugal, and every time I come back I discover something new so I\u2019ve put together the ultimate itinerary for Lisbon which will guide you through how to spend 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal\u00a0\u2013 perfect for first timers.<\/p>\n This Lisbon itinerary combines all the iconic tourist attractions in the charming Portuguese capital along with exploring the beautiful cobbled historic districts, riding the iconic old yellow trams, soaking the gorgeous views and exploring the fairytale castles of Sintra.<\/p>\n However many days in Lisbon you have to play with, you can tweak my itinerary to suit you. The first three days contain all the must-sees, and, if you have more time, I\u2019ve also got some suggestions for exploring off the beaten track in less touristy neighborhoods, visiting interesting museums, hidden gems and nearby beaches and more beautiful places to visit near Lisbon \u2013 perfect for day trips.<\/p>\n I\u2019ll also give you a mini Lisbon Travel Guide<\/strong> with all the tips you need including when to visit, where to stay, how to get there and get around. I hope you find my blog useful and that it inspires you to plan a trip to Lisbon and that this unique, enchanting city casts its spell on you too!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Pin Me \ud83d\ude42<\/strong><\/p>\n The first thing to think about when planning your itinerary for Lisbon is how much time you have to spend as this will determine how much you can fit in to your trip.<\/p>\n You could easily spend a week in Lisbon and not get bored, but I know not everyone can get away for that long so in this itinerary I\u2019ll show you how to fit the highlights into just 3 days in Lisbon.<\/p>\n While you could see some of the city\u2019s highlights with just 1 or 2 days in Lisbon, I highly recommend spending at least 3 days in Lisbon so that you also have time to visit Sintra \u2013 these colourful fairytale castles are some of the most captivating sights in all of Portugal and make the ideal day trip from Lisbon.<\/p>\n If you can only spend 1 or 2 days in Lisbon then I recommend getting a private guided tour to make the most of our time. This private Lisbon Tour <\/strong><\/a>will take you the most famous sights in just one day, without the stress of navigating public transport or tiring your legs out from walking up and down hills, and the local guide will give you a good insight into the city.<\/p>\n If you have more time, spending 4 or 5 days in Lisbon is ideal as this will allow you explore at a more relaxed pace, check out some of city\u2019s interesting museums and less touristy neighbourhoods, enjoy some time on the beaches near Lisbon and go on a day trip to see more of Portugal.<\/p>\n If you are visiting Lisbon as part of a trip around Portugal then I\u2019d also highly recommend visiting Porto and the Douro Valley too. Portugal\u2019s second city is less than 3 hours from Lisbon on the train and has a very different feel (and it\u2019s just as beautiful).<\/p>\n In many ways, I enjoyed Porto as much as i do Lisbon! So I\u2019d recommend spending at least 3 days in Lisbon and 2 in Porto for a more complete experience of Portugal. See my Portugal itinerary<\/a> for more extended travel ideas.<\/p>\n Anyway, let\u2019s get back to Lisbon!<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how I recommend planning your 3 day itinerary for Lisbon:<\/p>\n Carry on reading for my day-by-day itinerary that goes into all the details, and offers suggestions for if you have more time.<\/p>\n On your first day in Lisbon, dive straight into the city centre\u2019s historic neighbourhoods \u2013 <\/span>Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Alfama. These are Lisbon\u2019s most atmospheric and enchanting areas where you\u2019ll see plenty of impressive historical buildings, cobbled lanes, clattering trams, tiled facades, and sweeping river views.<\/span><\/p>\n Lisbon is a pretty safe city to explore independently, however the older districts of the city can be a bit of a maze, So, if it\u2019s your first time in Lisbon, I highly recommend starting your trip by joining a <\/span>walking tour<\/span><\/strong><\/a> (or a tuk tuk tour<\/a><\/strong> to avoid walking up and down hills.)<\/span><\/p>\n Not only will a guided tour help you get your bearings without getting lost, having a guide will also give you a deeper understanding of Portuguese history which will enrich your whole trip. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes with a good grip for walking up and down the steep hills. <\/span><\/p>\n There are many tours available to help you learn about and navigate Lisbon \u2013 perfect for your first morning. Here\u2019s my top recommendations:<\/p>\n If you\u2019d prefer to explore independently, start your DIY walking tour at the Pra\u00e7a do Com\u00e9rcio, <\/span><\/strong>Lisbon\u2019s grand riverside square where ships once arrived from all over the Portuguese Empire. You can visit the <\/span>Lisbon Story Center<\/a>,<\/strong> an interactive museum worth checking out to learn about the city\u2019s history.<\/p>\n C<\/span>limb up, or just admire, the <\/span>Arco da Rua Augusta<\/span><\/strong> and wander along <\/span>Rua Augusta<\/span><\/strong>, Baixa\u2019s main pedestrian street. It\u2019s full of shops, caf\u00e9s, and buskers, but don\u2019t eat here \u2013 it\u2019s mainly aimed at tourists and pretty overpriced. <\/span><\/p>\n Wander towards the swirling pavements of <\/span>Rossio Square<\/span><\/strong> keeping an eye out for one of Lisbon\u2019s most quirky sights \u2013 the <\/span>Elevador de Santa Justa <\/span><\/strong>(Santa Justa Lift.)\u00a0This neo-Gothic iron elevator, built in 1902, connects Baixa to the higher Chiado district and was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel.<\/span><\/p>\n The Elevador de Santa Justa is an impressive and unique sight but the queue is usually much longer than it takes to ride up the lift so I recommend just walking up if you can \u2013 it\u2019s a steep but short walk and you can still see the views of Lisbon\u2019s rooftops and the castle in the distance from the top anyway.<\/span><\/p>\n Once you reach the top check out the ruins of the <\/span>Carmo Convent<\/span><\/strong> (<\/span>Convento do Carmo.<\/span><\/strong>) This former Gothic church was almost completely destroyed in the earthquake, and the open-air skeleton of arches with no roof that remains is hauntingly beautiful. There\u2019s a small museum here too.<\/span><\/p>\n Then head to Rua Garrett<\/span><\/strong>, one of elegant Chiado\u2019s most beautiful streets, lined with shops and cafes. Check out the famous <\/span>A Brasileira Cafe<\/span><\/strong> and the tile clad<\/span> Livreria Bertrand<\/strong> \u2013 the oldest still operating bookstore in the world according to Guinness World Records.<\/p>\n Next head over to Pra\u00e7a Lu\u00eds de Cam\u00f5es, <\/span><\/strong>a lively plaza that feels like the heart of Lisbon. Grab a pastel de nata from <\/span>Manteigaria <\/span><\/strong>and take a pic of <\/span>the super cute Bica Funicular<\/strong> and then try your luck catching the tram over to Alfama.<\/p>\n Lisbon\u2019s old yellow trams are so iconic \u2013 they date back to the 1930s and, in any other city, would be in a museum, but in Lisbon they still trundle the streets and traverse the hills every day.<\/span><\/p>\n Riding the iconic yellow tram<\/strong> is a classic Lisbon experience and one of my favourite things to do in Lisbon. H<\/span>owever, it does get crowded and it can sometimes be difficult to find a seat.<\/p>\n Tram 28<\/span><\/strong><\/a> is the most scenic route \u2013 <\/span>it twists, turns and rattles like a rollercoaster through the historic neighbourhoods and is such a fun and unique way to see the city, while saving your legs!<\/p>\n Try catching the tram at Pra\u00e7a Lu\u00eds de Cam\u00f5es and riding it to Alfama. <\/span>If the tram is too packed to get on, try boarding at the terminal at <\/span>Martim Moniz<\/a> instead where you\u2019ll have a better chance of getting a seat. There\u2019s more tips about using trams and public transportation in the Lisbon Travel Guide section at the end.<\/span><\/p>\n Get off the tram at S\u00e9 de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)<\/strong>, the city\u2019s oldest church, it has a slightly fortress-like vibe from the outside but is peaceful and atmospheric inside. <\/span><\/p>\n Have lunch at Taberna Do Castelo<\/strong> where you can taste delicious fresh Portuguese dishes like octopus, sardines and paella while sitting outside on the pavement soaking up the atmosphere as the trams rattle past.<\/p>\n After lunch, dive deeper into the historic <\/strong><\/span>Alfama <\/strong>district<\/strong> \u2013 the city\u2019s oldest quarter and one of the few areas that survived the devasting earthquake of 1755.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n Alfama is a labyrinth of and winding cobblestone streets, there\u2019s no point trying to follow Google Maps here \u2013 just wander and you\u2019ll discover hidden alleyways and staircases, locals chatting in doorways and laundry blowing in the breeze, tiny bars serving <\/span>Ginjinha (cherry brandy) in little chocolate cups and the haunting sounds of Fado spill out over the red tiled rooftops. <\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re interested in Fado, the melancholic music of Portugal, head down to the waterside and visit the Museu do Fado<\/strong><\/a> (Fado Museum)<\/strong> where you can learn more about this unique traditional artform.<\/p>\n And don\u2019t miss the <\/span>Miradouro de Santa Luzia<\/span><\/strong> and <\/span>Miradouro das Portas do Sol \u2013 <\/span><\/strong>these two viewpoints offer those postcard-perfect vistas of the terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Tagus River below and are a great spot for photos.<\/span><\/p>\n In the late afternoon, make your way up to <\/span>Castelo de S\u00e3o Jorge (St George Castle)<\/span><\/strong>, an impressive fortress perched at the top of the highest hill in Lisbon with a long and interesting history.<\/span><\/p>\n The walk up to S\u00e3o Jorge Castle is steep, but the reward is a 360-degree view of the city and a garden full of peacocks and shady olive trees. It\u2019s one of Lisbon\u2019s most visited sights for good reason \u2013 take the time to walk all around the castle walls and see the city below from every angle.<\/span><\/p>\n Entrance costs 15 Euros and <\/span>the ticket office for Castelo de S\u00e3o Jorge is on Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo. Try to time your visit for late afternoon when the crowds thin and the light gets golden. There\u2019s a caf\u00e9 and restaurant here where you can enjoy a drink with a view to toast the sunset.<\/span><\/p>\n The perfect thing to do on your first night in Lisbon is to experience a traditional<\/span> Fado show.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Fado<\/a> is the traditional music that grew out of Lisbon\u2019s old, working-class neighborhoods in the mid-19th century. It\u2019s often described as Portugal\u2019s version of the blues \u2013 soulful, melancholic songs that tell stories of lost sailors, unrequited love, and the bittersweet side of romance.<\/p>\n The word \u201cfado\u201d translates to \u201cfate,\u201d capturing the way destiny shapes the lives of Portugal\u2019s seafarers and explorers and the families they leave behind longing for their safe return. This melancholic music is raw, emotional, and incredibly moving. <\/span><\/p>\n There\u2019s plenty of places to experience Fado in Lisbon, from tiny hole in the wall joints in Alfama to polished performances complete with food, wine and an explanation\/translation so you know what you are hearing!<\/p>\n This Fado Show and Portuguese Dinner<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is the perfect way to spend your first evening in Lisbon with authentic <\/span>live performances in an typical Fado house in Bairro Alto, accompanied by traditional Portuguese food and wine. It\u2019s popular and seats are limited so book in advance.<\/span><\/p>\n And, if you want to see more of Lisbon\u2019s nightlife<\/strong>, you can carry on your night in the Bairro Alto<\/strong> area or <\/span>head to nearby Pink Street.<\/strong> This lively street used to be Lisbon\u2019s red light district but it is now full of bars and, yes, the street is actually painted pink! It also has a display colourful umbrellas installed above part of the street, making it an Instagram favourite.<\/p>\n On your second day in Lisbon, head west along the river to the historic district of <\/span>Bel\u00e9m \u2013 <\/span><\/strong>A relaxed, waterfront neighborhood where the Portuguese explorers set sail from during the Age of Discoveries.<\/span><\/p>\n Belem is an important place to visit if you want to learn more about Portugal\u2019s famous explorers and seafaring history. Nowadays, it\u2019s home to several of Lisbon\u2019s most important monuments and museums, as well as some of the best pastries in the country. <\/span><\/p>\n Start your day early by hopping on a train, bus, tram 15E, or getting an Uber out to <\/span>Bel\u00e9m \u2013 it only takes 10 minutes. You\u2019ll want to dedicate most of the day here, as there\u2019s a lot to see. This area is mostly flat and the sites are within walking distance, but if you want to understand more about what you are seeing then guided tours are available. <\/span><\/p>\n Start your day at the<\/span> Mosteiro dos Jer\u00f3nimos <\/span><\/strong>(<\/span>Jer\u00f3nimos Monastery)<\/span><\/strong>, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. The intricately carved stonework, grand cloisters, and the tomb of Vasco da Gama<\/a> give you a strong sense of Portugal\u2019s golden age. There\u2019s also a small archaeological museum here.<\/span><\/p>\n From there, take a short stroll over to <\/span>Padr\u00e3o dos Descobrimentos, (Monument to the Discoveries<\/span><\/strong>), which juts dramatically into the Tagus River. The 170 Ft (52 m) high monument is made up of a group of sculptures of famous Portuguese explorers in a shape that represents the prow of a caravel (sailing ship.) You can climb, or take an elevator, up to the top for a great view. <\/span><\/p>\n Also don\u2019t miss the marble mosaic at the foot of the monument that represents a compass with a world map in the center \u2013 it shows you how far the Portuguese influence spread.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"Anna](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/portugal-lisbon-3522-1280op.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"My](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/lisbon-itinerary-pin-1op.jpg\")
<\/p>\nQuick Tips for Planning Your Lisbon Itinerary<\/span><\/h2>\n
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Spring (April \u2013 June) or Autumn (September \u2013 October) for good weather and less crowds. Avoid the peak season (July and August summer holidays) crowds, hot weather and higher prices.<\/li>\n
At least 3 days.<\/li>\n
Fly into Lisbon Airport (LIS) and take a short ride on the metro into the city centre.<\/li>\n
Baixa and Chiado are elegant, historic, centrally located and well connected areas with plenty of hotels, bars, restaurants, shops and attractions. Baixa is flatter and more walkable than other hilly areas.<\/li>\n\n
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Get a Lisbon Card<\/a> or Navegante<\/a> (VivaViagem) Card for unlimited metro, trams, buses, and some trains and ferries. Uber and Bolt apps are affordable and work well too.<\/li>\n
Buy time slot tickets in advance for the major sights, like Pena Palace, to avoid disappointment. You can buy tickets, or join a guided tour that includes transport and tickets,\u00a0on Get Your Guide<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n![\"anna](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/portugal-lisbon-3340-1280op.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHow Long To Stay in Lisbon<\/span><\/h2>\n
How to Spend 3 Days in Lisbon \u2013 The Perfect 3 Day Lisbon Itinerary<\/span><\/h2>\n
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Day 1 \u2013 Historic Lisbon, Castelo de S\u00e3o Jorge, Fado Show<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"portugal](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/portugal-lisbon-tram-2898787-1200-op-1024x684.jpg\")
Morning \u2013 Historic Lisbon Tour<\/h3>\n
Best Lisbon Tours<\/h4>\n
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![\"praca](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/20211002_171849-01-s.jpeg\")
<\/p>\nDIY Lisbon Walking Tour<\/h4>\n
![\"elevador](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/lisbon-elevador-santa-justa1-1280op.jpg\")
Ride Tram 28<\/h3>\n
![\"Anna](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/IMG_20211015_130003_434-819x1024.jpg\")
<\/p>\nAfternoon \u2013 Explore Alfama and Castelo de S\u00e3o Jorge<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Anna](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/portugal-lisbon-anna-183513-1200op.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Lisbon](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/portugal-lisbon-3397-1280op.jpg\")
<\/p>\nEvening \u2013 Fado Show<\/h3>\n
![\"Traditional](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/portugal-fado-lisbon-1280op.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/portugal-lisbon-134020-800op.jpg\")
Day 2 \u2013 Explore Bel\u00e9m\u2019s Monuments and Museums<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Monument](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/portugal-lisbon-monument-discoveries-144814-1280op.jpg\")
Morning \u2013 Jer\u00f3nimos Monastery<\/span><\/h3>\n
![\"Jer\u00f3nimos](\"https:\/\/www.global-gallivanting.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/portugal-lisbon-Jeronimos-Monastery-6939-1280op.jpg\")