Updated 2026 · Day-by-day guide
After landing at Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), head straight into the heart of the city. A 24/48-hour Viagem Viva transport pass is ideal for exploring. Start with Belém, home to the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO site with ornate Manueline architecture. Across the river, don’t miss the Belem Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. After lunch, take the 28 Electric Tram uphill to Castelo de São Jorge, offering panoramic views of the city.
End the first day in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district. Wander cobbled streets and enjoy a fado performance in a traditional taberna like Clube de Fado. Day two should start with a coffee at Time Out Market before climbing to LX Factory in Alcântara, a repurposed industrial complex with trendy cafés and shops. Wrap up with a sunset at Castelo de São Jorge or the Lisbon Oceanarium for marine life and a view of the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Day three is dedicated to art and history. Start with the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, housing European masterpieces from the 14th to 19th centuries. Next, visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, a vast collection including Greek sculptures and Impressionist works. The adjacent Gulbenkian Park is perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll.
On day four, explore MAAT (Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia) on the Tagus River, an architectural marvel with contemporary exhibits. Then, head to Museu do Fado in Alfama to understand the soul of Lisbon’s music. Finish the day at Museu Berardo in Cascais, an hour’s train ride west, for modern and contemporary art.
Day five focuses on the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts. Chiado is a mix of 19th-century architecture and modern flair. Visit Café A Brasileira, a historic café with a grand interior. Bairro Alto is best explored at night, with intimate tabernas like Senhor Vinho serving traditional food and wine.
On day six, visit the Arroios and Alcântara neighborhoods. Arroios is a transition zone between the historic center and the river, with great places to eat like Senhor dos Pescados for fresh fish. Alcântara is known for its Alfama-style views and the Parque das Nações, a modern area with the Parque Eduardo VII and Parque das Nações Shopping for a more cosmopolitan vibe.
Day seven is a trip to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a train from Rossio Station (30 minutes). Visit the Pena Palace and the Palace of Pombal for a mix of Romantic and Moorish architecture. Return to Lisbon and relax with a dinner at Restaurante Anticuchos in Mouraria.
On day eight, head to Évora in the Alentejo region (2.5 hours by train). Explore the Templo Romano and the Capela dos Ossos. Return to Lisbon and visit Doca do Bom Sucesso for a final seafood meal before heading back to the hotel.
Day nine is for shopping and leisure. Start at Rua do Ouvidor for high-end fashion and accessories. Then visit Rua Augusta for more options. Stop by Feira da Ladra in Alfama for vintage finds. Spend the afternoon at Jardim do Torel or Jardim Botânico for a peaceful break.
On day ten, enjoy a final breakfast at Café Santiago in Chiado, then do a last-minute souvenir run at El Corte Inglés department store. If time allows, visit Lumiar Park or Jardim do Palácio de Alvorada for a quiet farewell.