3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary

Are you embarking on an enlivening endeavour into Portugal’s picturesque capital city? If you’re seeking a 3 day itinerary packed with fascinating culture, steeping hilltops and crispy pastries, save this Lisbon travel guide for later.

Teeming with terracotta-tiled rooftops, bright-coloured buildings, winding streets and a decadent gastronomy scene, Lisbon is looming with lively pursuits.

A mystical wave of modern finds has taken this once-ancient city by storm, magnifying it as a must-see European destination.

Whether you want to hop aboard the scenic yellow trams, meander through the Roman-built castles, marvel at the alluring art museums, or relish in the flavours of Portuguese cuisine in the Bairro Alto, there are ample things to do in Lisbon. 

This vibrant city provides a gateway into Portuguese living, and if you’re wondering how to see the best of this hilltop-perched, picturesque city in 72 hours, look no further. This is the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal.

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

• How to See the Best of Lisbon in 3 Days

• 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary

• Top Things to Do in Lisbon

• Best Day Trips from Lisbon

• How to Spend a Layover in Lisbon

• Best Time to Visit Lisbon

• How to Get Around Lisbon

• Where to Stay in Lisbon

• Travel Tips

• FAQs

• Why Visit Lisbon?

How to See the Best of Lisbon in 3 Days

Touch down! If your flight’s just landed and it's your first time visiting Lisbon, you may feel overwhelmed by the abundance of activities.

Even if you're a Portugal-loving, seasoned traveller who’s traversed the town before, there’s a technicolour tapestry of things to do in Lisbon, and you don’t want to miss these.

This idyllic itinerary hones in on a handful of the capital’s must-see attractions, all within 72 hours. Hold your horses because this will be an experience you’ll never forget. Let’s dive into the details…

Here’s a basic breakdown of your 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal:

Day 1 in Lisbon

• Morning: Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery

• Afternoon: Tram Ride 28, Alfama District  & Lisbon Cathedral

• Evening: Sailboat Tour with Drinks

Day 2 in Lisbon

• Morning: Mercado da Ribeira

• Afternoon: Praça do Comércio & St George’s Castle

• Evening: Bairro Alto

Day 3 in Lisbon

• Morning: Miradouro de Santa Luzia & Miradouro das Portas do Sol

• Afternoon: Baixa, Santa Justa Lift & Carmo Convent

• Evening: Food & Drink Tour or Fado Music Show

3 Day Lisbon Itinerary: Day 1

If you’re wondering whether 3 days is enough to see Lisbon, you’re about to find out. From ancient castles and roofless convents to river cruises and mouth-watering cuisine, the next 72 hours hone in on all the highlights.

Morning: Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery

Kick off your 3 days in Lisbon itinerary in one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Belém Tower. Perched atop the glimmering Tagus River, you can listen to the perplexing stories as you navigate this history-packed gem.

Set out on a Self-Guided Audio Tour through the Tower Terrace, Forte do Bom Sucesso, Chapel and a handful of halls as you scale your way to the top.

Next up in this 3 days Lisbon itinerary - a short stroll to the 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery. Marvel at the Manueline architectural style, peer up at the soaring arches and admire the striking spires.

Gaze at the contrast of greenery in the background and learn about what makes this UNESCO-listed site so significant for Portuguese culture.

Afterwards, you can additionally explore the Berardo Collection Museum at the Cultural Center of Belém, which is home to a colourful collection of mesmerising modern art.

Afternoon: Tram Ride 28 & Alfama District  

Hop aboard the vintage #28 tram and step back in time are you spot the sites scattered in the labyrinth-like streets. Enjoy free transport with the flexible Lisbon Card before jumping off in the Alfama District. Navigate the network of character-packed corners, soak up the rich history and observe stunning city vistas.

Stop by the 12th-century Lisbon Cathedral, one of the most significant churches in the capital city. Partially rebuilt over the centuries, this top-rated attraction is arrayed with a mix of architectural styles. If you’re into religion and history, you can also pop by the pocket-sized St Anthony’s Church.

If you have some extra time up your sleeve, you could pop into the Fado Museum to learn about traditional Portuguese music, Fado. Since it originated in this area, Lisbon is a hot spot for authentic Fado experiences!

Alternatively, you could swap the sightseeing with this Half-Day 7 Hills of Lisbon Electric Bike Tour. If you’re an active traveller who’s looking to shake up your Lisbon Itinerary, this is a bucket list experience!

Evening: Sailboat Tour with Drinks

Before calling it a night, kick off sunset with a Lisbon Sailboat Tour. What better way to bring your first day in Lisbon itinerary to an end than by savouring the flavours of Portuguese wine and listening to a local's perspective on the capital city's captivating chronicles...

Dabble in the salty scents and the ocean breeze as you gaze back to the city’s skyline and ignite the fire within as you reflect on your first day in Lisbon.

3 Day Lisbon Itinerary: Day 2

So, it’s day two. Let’s start things with a bang! If you’re pondering how to spend 3 days in Lisbon, you won’t be disappointed with what’s about to come…

Morning: Mercado da Ribeira

Kick off the second day of your Lisbon itinerary with a food-fuelled morning visit to the Mercado da Ribeira. Taste the flavours of crispy pastel de nata, sip on an espresso-inspired bica and indulge in a pork sandwich called bifana. Gorge your eyes on the colourful collection of traditional cuisine and try some palatable plates in this Local Market and Food Tour.

Afternoon: Praça do Comércio & St George’s Castle

If you plan to spend 3 days in Lisbon, you’ve got to swing by the stately Praça do Comércio. Also known as Commerce Square, this a great way to sit back and rest as you watch bustling city life go by. If you're wondering how to spend three days in Lisbon, it's essential to factor in some good old-fashioned rest time too. And what better way to do it than from this history-riddled square?

After soaking up the scenery in Praça do Comércio, scale the Moorish remains and archaeological wonders of the ancient Sao Jorge Castle. Listen to a local guide’s take on St George’s Castle, peruse the panoramic views of the Tagus River and enjoy hassle-free access with this skip-the-line ticket.

Succeeding the handful of history-packed attractions, you will be craving something different. And this 3 days in Lisbon itinerary has a lot more on offer.

Alternatively, if you want a break from sightseeing, you could mix things up with this 3-Hour Dolphin-Watching Cruise.

Evening: Bairro Alto

At the close of your second day in Lisbon, enjoy a quintessential night in the Bairro Alto. Set out on a culinary-infused endeavour throughout the heaving hilltops and don’t forget to try traditional dishes like petiscos and codfish.

After satisfying your taste buds, discover the district's vibrant street art, and listen to local music in a bar. Soak it all on a budget-friendly Food and Wine Walking Tour! If you’re wondering whether 3 days is enough time to see Lisbon, I’m sure you’re sold by now!

3 Day Lisbon Itinerary: Day 3

It’s day three, baby! I’m sure you were wondering how many days are ideal for Lisbon. And by now, 72 hours may not even seem like enough! There really is so much to do in the capital city of Portugal, so hold tight, because we’re about to dive deep!

Morning: Miradouro de Santa Luzia & Miradouro das Portas do Sol

In the wake of your final morning of this 3 day Lisbon itinerary, head over to Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Catch the morning light play over the panoramas of Lisbon and peruse some of the city’s most picturesque points. The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is scattered with stunning azulejos, a character-packed park and uninterrupted views of the soaring city skyline.

If you’re an active traveller, you can make a short detour along Rua de Santiago to see the fascinating facade of the Santiago Church. This is the starting point of the famous Portuguese Way to Camino de Santiago (the Portuguese pilgrimage route).

Next up, hop over to the nearby Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Sandwiched right alongside the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, you’ll find the iconic viewpoint that’s painted on practically every postcard. Arguably, the view is better at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, while the azulejo-tiled terrace is better at the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. But I’ll leave that up to you!

Afternoon: Baixa, Santa Justa Lift & Carmo Convent

Following a laid-back morning frolicking around the famous lookouts in Lisbon, kick off the afternoon in the Baixa district. Meander around the pedestrianised Rua Augusta, one of the main streets in Baixa.

Running from the Rua Augusta Arch all the way to Rossio Square, you’ll find everything from pasteis de nata to picture-perfect attractions.

If you do choose to stop on Rua Augusta, be aware that a lot is tourist-targeted, making it challenging to encounter authentic finds.

Don’t stop here to eat, no matter how many people try to draw you in. For a crowd favourite, lock lips with a sweet pasteis de nata at the notorious Manteigaria bakery.

Stroll past the centuries-old Santa Justa Lift, but don’t wait in line to enter. If you want to know how to spend 3 days in Lisbon, make sure you at least stroll past this gem!

If you want to climb the Santa Justa lift without paying the costly ticket price, I’ll take you step-by-step through the route to reach the same height, but from a different viewpoint. The route is well-known among locals, but it’s not signposted so make sure you follow these steps.

Walk past the Elevador de Santa Justa to Rua do Carmo. Then, turn left and walk along the street, before taking the first right onto Rua Garrett. Then, go right again onto Calçada do Sacramento. There will be a sign for Largo do Carmo. Once you reach the top of the street, turn right along Travessa Dom Pedro de Menezes, then at the end of the street, go up the short flight of stairs to a terrace. Climb up, and you’ll see the bridge connecting the Santa Justa Elevador! Boo yeah!

If navigating the network of streets doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you could pop into the oldest bookstore in the world. Situated among the sprawling sights on Rua Garrett, Livraria Bertrand holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest bookstore in the world. After flicking through the nuance of novels, stroll along Lisbon’s famous shopping street and check out the art galleries. If you’re into art, check out this Lisbon Street Art Tour.

Stop by the Basilica of Nossa Senhora dos Mártires, admire the character-packed Luís de Camões Square and go inside the roofless Carmo Convent. This 14th-century, Gothic-esque convent is one of the best things to do in Lisbon, so be sure to squeeze in a visit.

If you’ve already visited Lisbon and ticked off the bucket list attractions, you could consider this top-rated Private Setubal Wine Tasting Tour.

Evening: Food & Drink Tour

Wind down the final evening of your 3 days in Lisbon itinerary with a Walking Food Tour with Snacks and Drinks! Because food is life, right? Explore the labyrinth-like streets, discover local restaurants and lock lips with mouth-watering Portuguese cuisine. Taste local delicacies and relish in the flavour-packed pairing with local wine and beverages.

Alternatively, finish your 3 days in Lisbon at an intimate Fado Music Show with Port Wine. Get immersed in the iconic symphonies of Fado music and say cheers to a fun-packed 3 day trip to Lisbon, Portugal.

What to do if you have more than 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal

Is 3 days enough time in Lisbon? Yes, but if you want to dive deeper into the sublime scene on offer, there’s plenty more to see and do.

Lisbon is a walkable city, so slap on your shoes and discover some of these top-rated things to do in Lisbon city:

• Get fanatic about football Benfica Stadium and Museum

• Explore the centuries-old structures of the Carmo Convent

• Hit the hilltops on a funicular ride on the Ascensor do Lavra or Ascensor da Bica

• People watch in the heart of Rossio Square

• Discover eclectic art and elegant gardens at the Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira

• Indulge in modern art in the Berardo Collection Museum

• Admire the Basílica da Estrela

• Marvel at the classic colours of azulejos in the National Tile Museum

• Go underwater in the Lisbon Oceanarium

• Discover the details of the Padrão dos Descobrimentos

• Take a step back in time at the National Museum of Ancient Art

• Scavenge for unique finds at the flea market of Feira da Ladra

• Dive deep into the city’s history at the Lisboa Story Centre

• Uncover the Asian influence at the Museu do Oriente

• Appreciate the architecture of the Aqueduto das Águas Livres

Best Day Trips from Lisbon, Portugal

Suppose you have room in your Lisbon itinerary to squeeze in more than 3 days, take a much-needed break and embark on a top-rated day trip from Lisbon. Whether you’re after a surf-packed stay, a history-fuelled visit or a food-filled vacation, Portugal has plenty on offer.

If you have more than 3 days in Lisbon, step outside and discover life beyond the city’s bounds…

• Sintra

• Cascais

• Tróia

• Costa da Caparica 

For the full scoop, see this post on the Best Day Trips from Lisbon.

Why stop there? Set your sights on Southern Portugal and make your way down to the coastline.

Pinned with panoramic landscapes, rugged natural beauty, traditional towns and idyllic beaches, Algarve is a destination that’s well worth the journey.

Whether you want to wind through the sprawling Seven Hanging Valleys Coastal Trail, peruse the sweeping arches in Lagos or traverse the whitewashed village of Ferragudo, there are many things you can’t miss in Algarve.

How to Spend a Layover in Lisbon, Portugal

If you’re wondering if a layover in Lisbon is worth it, here’s your answer. Packed with pleasurable pursuits at every end, Portugal’s capital city poses the perfect spot for a stopover. Whether you’ve got half a day or only a few hours, this is a short and sweet layover guide for all types of Lisbon lovers.

Lock lips with a glass of Portuguese wine, discover the top sites, uncover the history-ridden streets and taste the flavours of the iconic custard tarts, all within your four-hour stopover. If you want to explore highlights such as the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Explorers Monument, Santa Justa Elevator and a plethora of plazas, you best believe it's possible.

Make the most of your time on this Layover Tour with Airport Pickup and Drop-Off, and don’t miss an opportunity to be swept away by this colourful illuminating city.

How to See the Best of Lisbon in One Day

Touch down! If your flight’s just landed and it's your first time visiting Lisbon, you may feel overwhelmed by the abundance of activities.

Even if you're a Portugal-loving, seasoned traveller who’s traversed the town before, there’s a technicolour tapestry of things to do in Lisbon, and you don’t want to miss these.

Begin your trip to Lisbon with the water-straddled Belém Tower, elegant-looking Jerónimos Monastery and personality-packed Mercado da Ribeira. Watch time tick by in the Praça do Comércio and hit the heights of St George’s Castle before diving into the spirit of the Alfama neighbourhood.

Take your Lisbon itinerary up a notch by embarking on a scenic tram ride through the city’s winding streets before feasting your senses in Bairro Alto. Watch the sunset seep into spellbinding shades of gold and pink on a sailboat as you quench your thirst with a glass of champagne. If you didn’t think it was possible to see the best of Lisbon in one day, now you know. Let’s dive into the details…

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon depends on your preferences, travel style and budget. Portugal’s capital city boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Here is a basic breakdown of what to expect in each season.

Spring: From March to May, the weather starts to warm up and the city comes to life. Temperatures remain generally mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. As a shoulder season, springtime offers fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation and activities. Lisbon is a walkable city, and the spring season is the perfect time to explore.

Summer: From June to August, the peak tourist season in Lisbon boasts sun-filled days, long nights and beached-out day trips. The summer season temperatures can get very hot, especially in July and August. If you want to bask in the bustling atmosphere, lively street parties and nearby beaches, summer is the best time to spend your 3 days in Lisbon itinerary.

Autumn: From September to November, the weather remains generally pleasant and the tourist crowds begin to thin out. Autumn is a suitable time for sightseeing, outdoor activities and day trips to top destinations like Sintra and Cascais. September is the best time to visit Lisbon if you want a balance of sunny weather and fewer crowds.

Winter: From December to February, the winter season in Lisbon takes place. With temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, the only thing to factor in is occasional rain and strong winds. The city is less crowded during this time, making it ideal for indoor activities, sightseeing and experiencing Lisbon's Christmas markets and festivities.

How to Get Around Lisbon

Compared to other Portuguese cities, getting around Lisbon is relatively easy thanks to the variety of transportation options. Here is a basic breakdown of the best ways to get around Lisbon, Portugal.

Public Transport

Portugal’s capital city is well-connected with trams, metro, buses and trains. Lisbon's iconic vintage trams (known as "elétricos") are a quintessential experience. In particular, tram 28, winds through the city's history-rich neighbourhoods and attractions. Lisbon’s metro system with four lines (red, blue, green and yellow). The metro is a fast and efficient way to get to various parts of the city, including the Lisbon Airport and major train stations. There is also an extensive bus network that links other areas not served by the metro. Lastly, the suburban train network (CP - Comboios de Portugal) is a suitable option for day trips to destinations like Cascais, Sintra and Belém.

Lisbon Card: Consider buying a Lisbon Card if you plan to use public transportation often during your 3 day Lisbon itinerary. With discounted access to various museums and attractions, the card also offers unlimited access to public transport.

Car, Scooter & Motorbike Rental

While Lisbon is notorious for traffic congestion, renting a vehicle could be a great way to get around. If you want to zoom through traffic, a scooter or motorbike would be the best option. If you plan to do day trips or travel long distances, a car could be more convenient. It all comes down to you and your preferences!

Walking, Electric Scooters & Bikes

Lisbon is a very walkable city! Of course, you can sprinkle in some good, old-fashioned walking into your 3 days in Lisbon. As a pedestrian-friendly city, the historic neighborhoods are arguably, best explored on foot. Walking fully immerses you in the city's atmosphere, and you’ll get to discover hidden gems and bask in the panoramas from the hilltop-hugging streets. If walking’s not your style, you could rent an electric scooter and bike to get around Lisbon. Both bikes and scooters can be a fun and quick way to explore the city, especially if you only plan on travelling short distances.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Whether your 3 days in Lisbon itinerary is packed with cuisine, culture or colourful azulejos, there is something here to suit everybody. And we all know that at the end of a long day of sightseeing, there's no better feeling than hitting the hay. If you’re on the hunt for where to stay in Lisbon, you’re in the right place.

Here’s a basic breakdown to help you navigate the network of neighbourhoods and accommodations available.

Brimming with a network of narrow streets, colourful homes and step-carved steep hills, Lisbon poses a panoply of distinct districts. Whether you're enticed by the extravagance of Avenida da Liberdade or swept up by the history-steeped streets of Bairro Alto, Portugal’s capital city is bursting with character. Check out this in-depth guide on Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal.

Travel Tips for Visiting Lisbon, Portugal

Don’t get me wrong, Lisbon makes for a stellar sojourn. But, as with every major European city, there’s a handful of things you should know before you visit.

If you’re wondering how many days are ideal for Lisbon, 3 days offer a slice of all the highlights. Before you dive into the riveting history, endless landmarks and lively ambience, check out these Lisbon travel tips and mistakes to avoid.

• Choose your accommodation carefully.

If you’ve got 3 days in Lisbon, you want to be sure you enjoy every minute. The Baixa and Chiado districts are ideal for avid sightseers and travellers who want to tick all the Lisbon attractions off their bucket lists.

Art enthusiasts and scenery-seekers would enjoy the Alfama district, whereas partygoers and nightlife lovers would be better suited to the Bairro Alto neighbourhood. Visitors who want to escape the tourist traps and experience the local side of Lisbon will enjoy the culture in the Graça area.

• Opt for a Lisboa Card.

If it’s your mission to meander through all the museums, monuments and sprawling sites on offer, it’s best to buy a discount card. If you’re wondering whether Lisbon is an expensive city, all the attractions can add up quickly.

Save yourself some cash with the Lisboa Card. Including free access to 26 attractions, free public transport and topped by free train travel to both Sintra and Cascais, this is a game changer when visiting Lisbon. You can choose between a 24, 48, or 72-Hour Pass.

• Wear comfy walking shoes.

This is no fashion parade, people. This city’s highlights are perched within seven undulating hilltops, which means a lot of walking is involved. Ditch the bubbling blisters and enjoy your Guided Lisbon Walking Tour hassle-free.

• Book your tickets in advance.

Whether you’ve been eyeing off that indulgent Food and Wine Walking Tour, craving the sounds of a Live Fado Music Event, or wanting to get into tourist mode on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, be sure you book ahead of time. If you’ve got only a 3 day itinerary in Lisbon, you don't want to miss out on anything by not thinking ahead of time.

• Get cashed up.

In Portugal, cash is king, and Lisbon is no exception to that rule. If you want to step outside the tourist-targeted hot spots and experience the more authentic side, you’ll find that most places don’t accept credit cards. Don’t waste your 24 hours in Lisbon running around trying to find an ATM; get cashed up beforehand.

FAQS

Can you do Lisbon in 1 day?

In 24 hours, you can experience a small slice of what Lisbon offers. You may be able to check off some items from your bucket list, but you won’t fully immerse yourself in local cuisine or culture.

Is it worth going to Lisbon for the day?

Yes, if you’ve never visited Lisbon, one day is worth the visit. You can explore some of the capital city’s top sites, sample Portuguese food and take a tram ride through the colourful neighbourhoods.

Where to stay in Lisbon for 24 hours?

If you’re visiting Lisbon for one day, stay centrally located in either Alfama, Baixa or Bairro Alto.

Is Lisbon a walkable city?

With narrow alleyways and buzzing plazas, Lisbon is considered a walkable city. The only catch is the steep hills and never-ending steps, so it could be worth mixing walking with public transport.

Should I visit Porto or Lisbon?

If you’re wondering whether Porto or Lisbon is better, both Portuguese hot spots put up a good fight. Lisbon boasts a bounty of sights, activities and fascinating day trips to places like Sintra and Cascais. Porto harbours a handful of highlights, also offering some unique local experiences. If you want to avoid the big tourist crowds, Porto is your best bet.

Why Visit Lisbon, Portugal?

If you’re jet-setting off to panoramic Portugal, three days in the country’s capital city is a must. Lisbon encapsulates an eclectic mix of modern and ancient, with an intriguing blend of culture too.

Touted by tantalising attractions, vibrant edifices, awe-worthy architecture and a riveting food scene, this city should be added to your European bucket list. If you were wondering how to see the best of Lisbon in 72 hours, save this 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary for later.