What to do in Lisbon in 3 days?

Are you on holiday or travelling and would like to know what to do in Lisbon in 3 days? Don't worry, three days are enough to enjoy this city in small but delightful doses. Lisbon and its surroundings are full of activities, tourist attractions, traditional restaurants, viewpoints, neighbourhoods, monuments and, above all, incredible mysteries that need to be uncovered! And yes, you really can see many places and do many things in Lisbon in just 3 days!

One way to ensure that you don't waste time queuing during your visit is the Lisboa Card, which gives you discounts on attractions and serves as a transport pass, a very good tip for making it easier to organise your days and more easily condense several attractions into 3 days.

 

Let's plan your stay with exciting itineraries for each day!

 

Day 1

Get to know the city's emblematic neighbourhoods

Start your first day in Lisbon by exploring the heart of the city.

 

Morning

Belém Tower and Pastéis de Belém

Start your journey at the emblematic Belém Tower, an architectural jewel dating back to the 16th century. As you walk along the ramparts, let yourself be enveloped by the gentle breeze of the river Tagus and be dazzled by the panoramic view of Lisbon. Not far away, a visit to the unmissable Pastéis de Belém is a must. Immerse yourself in the sweetness of these pastries, whose secret recipe has been preserved for generations.

The Belém neighbourhood is also home to the Museu Coleção Berardo, where art lovers can enjoy a vast collection of modern and contemporary works.

  

Afternoon

Jerónimos Monastery

Explore the Jerónimos Monastery, an architectural masterpiece that displays the magnificence of the Manueline style. Delve into the ornate cloisters and soak up the grandeur of this monument. A few steps from the Monastery, you'll find the Praça do Império Garden, a peaceful place to relax before heading to the bustling Bairro Alto.

 

Evening

Bairro Alto

Finish the day in the lively Bairro Alto. Dine at one of the local restaurants, such as BAHR, and experience the vibrant nightlife of this bohemian neighbourhood. If you're interested in live music, many bars in Bairro Alto offer a variety of musical styles, from fado to contemporary music. You can also visit the Teatro do Bairro Alto, a culturally important venue with a special curatorship.

This bohemian neighbourhood comes alive with its cosy restaurants, lively bars and narrow streets full of energy. Enjoy an authentic Portuguese gastronomic experience and let yourself be carried away by the relaxed and festive atmosphere.

 

Day 2

Explore the Historical Centre

 

On the second day, immerse yourself in the authenticity of the Alfama, Baixa and Chiado neighbourhoods.

 

Morning

St Jorge’s Castle

Climb up to St George's Castle for a panoramic view of Lisbon. Explore the narrow streets of Alfama, the city's oldest neighbourhood, and be sure to visit the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for a spectacular view of the city.

 

Afternoon

Santa Justa Lift and Rua Augusta
Head down to Baixa via the Santa Justa lift and stroll along Rua Augusta, full of charming shops and cafés. Also take the opportunity to visit the Rua Augusta Arch and climb up for a magnificent view of Praça do Comércio.

 

Evening

Fado in Alfama
Experience the authenticity of Lisbon with an evening of Fado in Alfama, the birthplace of this Portuguese musical genre. This melancholic and expressive musical style is an intrinsic part of Portuguese culture. Choose one of the many local restaurants that offer live performances and let yourself be enveloped by the thrilling melodies.

 

Day 3

A fairytale right near Lisbon

On the third day, escape to the charming village of Sintra, a true fairytale on the outskirts of Lisbon.

 

Morning 

Afternoon

Quinta da Regaleira
Discover the mysterious gardens and initiation wells at Quinta da Regaleira, a fascinating place full of symbolism. For a more complete experience, include a visit to the Pena Palace, a colourful masterpiece that seems straight out of a fairy tale. As of 2024, entry to several of Sintra's museums is free on Sundays for Portuguese residents.

 

Evening

Sintra’s Historical Centre
Stroll through the illuminated streets and enjoy a meal in one of the cosy local restaurants, where Portuguese cuisine continues to delight. Feel free to explore the local nightlife and experience the flavours and rhythms of this magical village.

 

 

As you've already realised, 3 days in Lisbon is the perfect amount of time to discover some of the wonders that both Lisbon and the surrounding area offer their visitors every day. The richness of this fascinating city has so much to offer. If you want to get to know the culture and heritage of this area even better, you can always book another trip to the capital, preferably a longer stay, so that you can visit the other stunning places that await you and deepen your experience!