First-time visitors to Lisbon will most likely enjoy the city the minute they get off the airplane. The city has the perfect size to get to know each area of the city without feeling stressed. The public transport is easy to use, and they encourage you to take your time to explore the city. The city is exciting, and three days are enough time to relax and enjoy the city, to experience its special ambiance. This is the point of this trip to Lisbon travel guide.
Day 1. The old Town and Amazing Views
Having some of the oldest architecture in the district, like many of the other towns in Europe, Lisbon has some very nice vintage areas. The way the areas are set up shows you the history of the city and describes the vintage vibe many cities in Europe hold. Not to mention the way the rebuilt areas blend in with the vintage parts of the city.
Concentrate mostly on these areas to get the most out of your experience.
- Alfama, the oldest and most architecturally diverse area, has a great hillside view and narrow roads.
- Rua Augusta is a rebuilt area of the lower town with wide streets and a new grid structure.
- Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) is the town’s oldest landmark and a great historic area.
You need to take a ride on Tram 28. It is a great way to see the vintage architecture of the town without having to walk.
Plan a few stops on the way to view various points, and remember to plan time as well to stop at:
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia to see the views of the river and the tiled panels.
- A few smaller, unnamed viewpoints that you will see as you walk uphill.
Lisbon’s hills are what make the city beautiful, so walk at a slower pace and take breaks! Don’t try to see it all in one go.
The First Evening: Food and Fado
In Lisbon, the evenings are very laid back, and there is a lot of socializing. Instead of trying to see all the places, stick to one area for the night.
The best neighborhoods for the evening are:
- Alfama for a local and traditional feel.
- Bairro Alto has more options for food and dinner later, and more variety.
For dinner, eat at smaller restaurants and try:
- Bacalhau, which is made in many different ways depending on the region.
- Grilled sardines, which are very common to eat in summer, are very popular right now.
For Fado, it is better not to go to the huge staged performances. Find a smaller, more local restaurant that is serving Fado; it will be a better experience, even if you don’t speak the language.
Day 2: Morning in Belém and Lisbon’s Age of Discovery
For day two, head to Belém first, which is west of the city center. Belém is one of the areas most closely related to Portugal’s maritime history. This part of Lisbon is more spacious and level, which will make for a nice walk.
Key locations in Belém include:
- The Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Portuguese craftsmanship
- The Belém Tower is part of the original defenses of the city.
No trip is complete without visiting Pastéis de Belém, home of the original custard tarts with moving lines, but don’t be alarmed, the lines move efficiently.
Belém is easily accessible via tram or train from downtown Lisbon, so don’t worry about overplanning.
Day 2 Afternoon: Augusto Rua and Shopping
Return to downtown Lisbon for a quieter afternoon centered on walking and light exploration.
Spend some time in:
- Rua Augusta, the main pedestrian thoroughfare of the city
- Rossio Square, a classic meeting point and a historical square
For a view of the city with no further hill walking, use the Santa Justa Lift, which goes from Baixa to the top of the hill.
End the afternoon with a terrace café or a square.
Day 3 Morning: Modern Creative Areas
The last morning is best for experiencing the contemporary and creative side of Lisbon. The LX Factory is a revitalized industrial area that is home to a variety of independent shops, studios, and coffee shops.
Things to Do:
- Check out the small design and book shops.
- Find street art and murals.
- Have brunch or coffee away from the touristy places.
This part of the city feels more local and slower, which is a nice contrast to the historic center.
Day Three Afternoon: Flexible Options
This last afternoon is all about what you have the energy for and what the weather is like. Some good options are:
- Eduardo VII Park for open views and green space
- Monsanto Lookout for the best panorama of the city
- A short train ride to Cascais for coastal views and beaches
Instead of trying to do everything, choose one.
Getting Around and Handy Tips for First Timers
A few things make Lisbon easier to figure out:
- A Viva Viagem card works on the metro, trams, buses, and trains.
- Be prepared to do a lot of walking, plus the roads are cobbled, and it’s all very hilly, so wear good shoes.
- Avoid the trams during the morning and afternoon rush hour.
- Stop off in a Café to manage walking fatigue and the heat.
How to Experience Lisbon Without Rushing
With a realistic pace, three days in Lisbon is perfect. Emphasize neighborhoods, viewpoints, and meals, and don’t make long to-do lists. Most of what makes Lisbon special is the little things. Enjoy the quiet streets, a long lunch, and unexpected views.
