3 Days in Lisbon: The Ultimate Lisbon Itinerary by a Local

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Planning to spend 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal, and wondering what to do in one of Europe’s coolest capitals? You’ve come to the right place!

This ultimate Lisbon itinerary covers all the top attractions in the Portuguese capital, as well as off-the-beaten-path spots.

It also includes loads of insider tips to help you enjoy the city like a local.

Having lived in Lisbon for more than 8 years and still visiting at least twice a year, I can say I know the city pretty well.

I always feel at home when I’m in Lisbon and love revisiting my favorite places around the city.

And today I’m sharing all of them with you.

So without further ado here’s my Lisbon 3 days itinerary, from what to do in Lisbon for 3 days to the best places to eat and stay.

Read More:

• 10 Best Day Trips from Lisbon
• Porto Itinerary: How to Spend 2 or 3 Days in Porto, Portugal
• 10 Great Things to Do in Central Alentejo, Portugal
• Top 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Portugal: A Local’s Guide

 

3 day Lisbon itinerary – Day 1

Ribeiras das Naus

Start your first day in Lisbon at Cais do Sodré.

Stroll along the recently recovered Ribeira das Naus avenue and enjoy the views of the Tagus River.

There’s also a pleasant café overlooking the river, as well as a pier where you can take a boat tour or sightseeing cruise.

For a truly local experience, I’d recommend taking the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, on the other side of the river, instead.

From Cacilhas, you can easily reach the Cristo Rei monument and enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Alternatively, you can book a Tagus River and Cristo Rei tour here.

 

Praça do Comércio

At the end of Ribeiras das Naus, you’ll find Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s biggest and most impressive square.

Commonly known as Terreiro do Paço, the square was home to the Royal Ribeira Palace, which was destroyed by the earthquake of 1755, and the most important entrance to the city.

Today, the buildings around Praça do Comércio are government departments, hotels, restaurants, and cafés.

Make sure to have a peek at the famous Martinho da Arcada, the oldest café in Lisbon.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of the Portuguese capital, visit the interactive Lisboa Story Centre located in the east wing of the square. You can buy your skip-the-line admission ticket here.

 

Rua Augusta Arch

On the north side of Praça do Comércio, stands the imposing Rua Augusta Arch, a triumphal arch-style monument built to celebrate the reconstruction of the city after the big earthquake of 1755.

There’s a viewpoint at the top offering great views of Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta, and Lisbon’s downtown.

Click here to buy your ticket and skip the lines.

 

Rua Augusta

Connecting Praça do Comércio to Rossio, this pedestrian artery is Lisbon’s liveliest street.

Bursting with chain stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, cafés, street performers, and peddlers, Rua Augusta is a great place for people-watching and feeling the rhythm of the Portuguese capital.

A worth of advice though: Avoid the “tourist trap” restaurants of Rua Augusta.

Lisbon has no shortage of better and more authentic places to enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine, at much more reasonable prices.

I included some of my favorite restaurants in the city at the bottom of this post.

 

Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift is the only vertical urban lift in Lisbon.

This elegant metal construction from the early 20^th century connects downtown Lisbon to Largo do Carmo square, in Chiado.

Take a ride and enjoy the Neo-Gothic decorations and, most importantly, the panoramic views of Lisbon from the observation platform on the top.

 

Chiado

Chiado is among my favorite Lisbon districts.

Here old bookstores, mythical cafés, and renowned theaters coexist with international chains, modern hostels, and trendy restaurants and rooftops.

One of the city’s most iconic cafés, A Brasileira, is also located here. In the early 20^th century, A Brasileira was a meeting place for intellectuals, writers, and artists.

Among the regular customers was Fernando Pessoa, one of the most important Portuguese poets, whose statue you can see on the terrace, and even take a picture with.

 

Largo de Camões

Located in the intersection of Chiado, Cais do Sodré, Príncipe Real, Bairro Alto and Bica districts, Largo de Camões is a charming Lisbon square.

In the center of the square, you can see a statue of Luís de Camões, the author of the national epic Os Lusíadas and considered the greatest Portuguese poet of all time.

The square comes to life especially after dark, when it becomes a meeting point for party-goers of all ages due to its proximity to the nightlife districts of Bairro Alto, Bica and Cais do Sodré.

 

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

From Chiado, walk your way up through the streets of Misericórdia and São Pedro de Alcântara to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.

This lovely garden and viewpoint offers some stunning views of downtown Lisbon and the Tagus River.

There’s also a small kiosk bar with a terrace perfect for a pause after all the walking.

 

Príncipe Real

Just a short walk from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, Príncipe Real is an elegant district known for its lovely garden, beautiful palaces, and antique shops.

Mostly a residential neighborhood, Príncipe Real maintains its local flair and a sophisticated atmosphere, visible in its classy boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

One of my favorite places here is Pavilhão Chinês, a bar that is also a true museum of antiques.

 

 

Bairro Alto

Located right next to Príncipe Real, Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s most popular nightlife district. Although that goes pretty much unnoticed during the day.

Bairro Alto is a typical old quarter made of cobbled streets, small houses and cafes, and laundry hanging off the windows and balconies.

There are also second-hand stores, trendy boutiques, and tattoo parlors catering to a young and hipster population.

At night, the restaurants, bars, and clubs open their doors, the streets become flooded with people, and the party begins.

You can book a walking and tram tour of Chiado and Bairro Alto here.

 

Bica

Famous for its old funicular, Bica is one of Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

The narrow and steep streets, staircases, and old houses with flowery windows give it a special personality.

Come here on a weekend night and Bica is turned into an open-air party spot.

The small bars and cafés are as busy as it gets, and crowds of night owls gather on the streets for a drink and some fun.

 

Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Hidden in the Bica district, the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, also known as Adamastor by the locals, is another example of Lisbon’s many beautiful viewpoints.

The area used to be a hotspot for drug use but was recently recovered and is now home to a 5-star hotel and to a fancy restaurant and cocktail bar.

 

3 days in Lisbon itinerary – Day 2

Parque Eduardo VII

Your second day in the Portuguese capital starts at Parque Eduardo VII.

Located in the heart of the city, Parque Eduardo VII is Lisbon’s largest green park.

To be totally honest, I don’t find it particularly attractive, but it’s worth a visit if only to admire the views over the city.

 

Marquês de Pombal

From Eduardo VII Park, head to Marquês de Pombal square.

Marquês de Pombal is one of Lisbon’s most important roundabouts and transport hubs.

In the center of the square, you can admire a statue of Marquês de Pombal, prime minister of Portugal between 1750 and 1777, and responsible for the reconstruction of the city after the great Lisbon earthquake.

 

Avenida da Liberdade

Starting at Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade is Lisbon’s Champs-Élysées or the most important and glamorous avenue in the city.

But there’s more to it than luxury.

In recent years, alongside the high-end boutiques and upscale hotels, restaurants, and cafés, a new trend emerged: the kiosk bars.

There are now 6 of these traditional kiosks spread throughout Avenida da Liberdade offering street food, music, entertainment, and a new life to one of Lisbon’s most pleasant avenues.

 

Baixa

Avenida da Liberdade ends at Restauradores square, in Lisbon’s downtown or baixa in Portuguese.

The square is surrounded by gorgeous palaces in Art Deco and Modernist styles.

In its center, an obelisk celebrates the restoration of the independence of Portugal from Spanish domination in 1640.

Make sure to admire the remarkable work of calçada Portuguesa (traditional Portuguese pavement) around the obelisk.

Next to Restauradores, the D. Pedro IV Square, commonly known as Rossio, is the main commercial and cultural center.

It is home to the D. Maria National Theatre, the Rossio Railway Station, traditional shops, and iconic cafés like Café Nicola.

While you’re here, make sure to visit A Ginjinha and try the city’s famous Ginja liqueur.

You can book a Baixa walking tour here.

 

Martim Moniz and Intendente

Just a footstep from Rossio, Martim Moniz allows a glimpse into the most multicultural side of Lisbon.

This square is a meeting place for the Chinese, Indian, and African communities, among others, who own restaurants and shops here.

In its center, you’ll find a street food market with flavors of the world and, on weekends, an ethnic market with handicrafts, groceries, food, and music.

Martim Moniz is also the starting point of the famous tram 28. Although if you’d like to avoid the crowds of tourists, I’d recommend you skip the tram and walk instead.

From Martim Moniz, stroll along Avenida Almirante Reis and explore the newest cool district in Lisbon, the Intendente.

Once a seedy neighborhood, Intendente is now among the most vibrant quarters in the Portuguese capital, with the opening of new design hotels, vintage shops, cafés, bistros, and bars.

 

Graça

Graça is one of the oldest and most beautiful Lisbon districts.

It’s also one of the best places to enjoy authentic local life.

Wander through its lovely streets and squares, visit the small markets and grocery shops, sit in the cafés, and enjoy the views from its two gorgeous viewpoints: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro da Graça.

 

São Jorge Castle

Located on a hilltop overlooking the city, São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views over Lisbon and the Tagus River.

The medieval castle has several gardens and viewpoints, a citadel and terrace, and a camera obscura.

It is classified as a national monument, and one of the most visited Lisbon tourist sites.

Book your ticket here and skip the lines.

 

Alfama

Alfama needs no introduction.

This typical neighborhood in the heart of the Portuguese capital is probably the best known of all Lisbon districts, and justifiably so.

Getting lost in the maze of picturesque narrow streets, alleys, and stairways of Alfama, and dining in one of its traditional restaurants or Casas de Fado (restaurants where you can listen to live Fado music) are mandatory things to do in Lisbon in 3 days.

And, of course, there’s also a viewpoint you cannot miss: the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

Lisbon is called the city of the seven hills for a reason. And even though sometimes it can get tiring to walk up and down, your reward is all the wonderful views of the city.

I recommend joining a guided walking tour to learn more about Alfama’s rich history.

 

Campo das Cebolas

The last stop of your second day in Lisbon is Campo das Cebolas, a newly refurbished square close to Alfama and the downtown.

From here, you can see Lisbon’s Cathedral and the river, while relaxing on the lawn or in one of its restaurants.

This pleasant square is also home to the famous Casa dos Bicos (meaning house of spikes).

This curious building houses a branch of the Lisbon Museum and the José Saramago Foundation, including a permanent exhibition about the life and work of the Portuguese Nobel Prize in Literature.

 

Lisbon 3 day itinerary – Day 3

Torre de Belém

Dedicate your last day in Lisbon to the riverside district of Belém, where you can find some of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks.

Start at Torre de Belém, one of the city’s ex-libris.

Built as a defensive fortress, the tower was originally surrounded by the river.

It’s a fine example of the Manueline style, a Portuguese style of architecture of the 16^th century characterized by maritime elements representing the discoveries of the Portuguese navigators.

 

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

From Torre de Belém, stroll along the Tagus until the impressive Monument to the Discoveries.

The monument was built during the Estado Novo dictatorship to celebrate a romanticized vision of the Portuguese discoveries that, in many ways, remains to this day.

But historical debates aside, the monument offers lovely views of the Tagus River and the Belém district from its viewpoint on the top.

 

Centro Cultural de Belém

A source of controversy at the time of its construction due to its modern layout, the Cultural Center of Belém is Portugal’s largest cultural facility.

It houses a modern and contemporary art museum, a performing arts center for ballet, opera, theatre, film, and music events, and a conference center, as well as several stores, bars, and a restaurant.

Outside, the gardens and patios with sculptures are open to the public and well worthy of a visit.

 

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

The remarkable Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is, together with Torre de Belém, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most emblematic symbols of Portugal.

The monastery is the pinnacle of the Portuguese Late Gothic or Manueline architecture and took a whole century to build.

Its portals, church-hall, and cloister are considered masterpieces of European and world architecture.

Since 2016, the Jerónimos Monastery has also the status of a national pantheon.

The tombs of the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama and poet Fernando Pessoa, among others, can be seen here.

Book your skip-the-line entrance ticket to the Jerónimos Monastery here (with free cancellation).

 

Pastéis de Belém factory

You can’t visit Lisbon without trying the original Portuguese custard tart in Belém.

While you can find pastéis de nata (custard tarts) in every café or bakery throughout the country, the original recipe is kept secret and recreated only here, in the Secret Room of the Pastéis de Belém factory.

Visiting this quaint pastry factory is an experience in itself.

And, believe me, it’s totally worth waiting in line to sample this specialty fresh from the oven!

You can book a Belém guided tour, including a visit to the Pastéis de Belém factory, here.

 

MAAT

The MAAT-Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is Lisbon’s most recent museum and a work of art itself.

Designed by the architect Amanda Levete, it offers lovely views of the Tagus and the city on its back.

Even if you don’t want to visit the exhibitions, have a walk by the river and admire the museum from outside.

 

Pilar 7 Bridge Experience

Afterward, head to the Alcântara district for an intense experience.

Pilar 7 is a new interactive center located within one of the pillars of Ponte 25 de Abril.

It tells the story of the construction of 25 de Abril Bridge (which shares many similarities with the Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco) and allows visitors to see its interior.

But the most interesting part of the experience, at least for me, is the ride up to the observation deck at the same level as the bridge’s upper deck.

Besides amazing views, this glass-walled viewpoint gives you a unique perspective of the bridge.

Not recommended if you’re afraid of heights though!

 

LxFactory

Last on your list of what to see in Lisbon in 3 days is LxFactory.

Hidden in Alcântara, LxFactory is a former industrial complex turned hipster district.

The old factory and warehouses are now co-working spaces, art studios, fashion and design stores, marketing agencies, bookshops, restaurants, bars, and even a hostel.

Make sure to have a peek at Ler Devagar, a bookstore installed in an old printing space.

In addition to books, Ler Devagar sells also food and drinks and offers a diversified program of cultural events.

 

4 or 5 days in Lisbon

If you have more time, and three days in Lisbon are certainly not enough to enjoy all the city has to offer, here are some other things you can do:

 

Enjoy the beaches

From Praia de Carcavelos, in the Estoril coast, to the more secluded sands of Costa da Caparica, Lisbon has plenty of stunning beaches at its footstep.

For a truly unique experience, try a surfing class at Carcavelos Beach or a bodyboarding lesson in Costa da Caparica.

Or you can take advantage of the fact that you are in one of the top surf destinations in the world and join a yoga and surf retreat in Portugal for all levels and skills.

 

Explore Parque das Nações

Originally created for the 1998 Lisbon World Exposition, Parque das Nações is Lisbon’s youngest residential and cultural district, and a showcase of contemporary and futuristic architecture.

 

Take day trips to Cascais and Sintra

The picturesque fisherman village of Cascais and the romantic town of Sintra are two of the best day trips from Lisbon.

Book a full-day tour to Sintra and Cascais here.

 

Where to eat in Lisbon

Time Out Market

Set in the historic Mercado da Ribeira, in Cais do Sodré, the Time Out Market is a hip food hall where you can find some of the best Portuguese chefs and restaurants under one roof.

Created by Time Out Portugal magazine as the “world’s first food and cultural market”, it also offers a diversified program of cultural events and hosts cooking workshops and masterclasses.

The original food market, on the other side of the building, is also worth a visit.

 

Pharmácia

I visited Pharmácia this summer for the first time and loved everything about it.

The food is delicious, the decor inspired by the old pharmacies is beautiful, and the huge terrace is the cherry on top.

They serve pestiscos (small portions meant to share) of traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist.

We had À Brás de Camarão (shrimp), Polvo à Lagareiro (octopus), Pica Pau (meat), Tiborna de Queijo da Serra (warm bread with local cheese), and Bolo do Caco (a traditional bread from Madeira Island) with sautéed mushrooms, and more.

Everything was perfect!

Oh, and did I mention their unique signature cocktails named after medicines?

I recommend you have a dose (or two) of the Ibuprofen.

 

Hamburgueria do Bairro

Every time I’m in Lisbon, I must eat at Hamburgueria do Bairro at least once.

This was the first of the gourmet burger houses that popped up all over the Portuguese capital in recent years, and remains my favorite till this day.

I love their vegetarian burgers with sweet potato fries, and according to my meat-lover boyfriend, the beef ones are also very good.

You can find them in 6 different locations in Lisbon alone: Príncipe Real, São Bento, Restelo, São Sebastião, Parque das Nações, and Estrada da Luz.

 

A Praça

A Praça is a laid-back restaurant located inside the creative LxFactory complex, in Alcântara.

With a cool atmosphere, unique decoration, good Italian and Portuguese food, and friendly staff this place is a no-brainer.

 

Noobai

This is one of my favorite rooftops in Lisbon, not so much for the food as for the unbeatable view.

Located right next to the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, in the Bica district, Noobai is a restaurant and bar offering gorgeous views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

Opened every day until midnight, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal or drink at sunset.

 

Cantinho do Azis

Cantinho do Azis is a must stop for a taste of Mozambique in Lisbon.

Located in a narrow street of the historic Mouraria neighborhood, this is a small and unpretentious restaurant.

What matters here is the food, which does not disappoint.

Covered with colorful capulanas, the tables on the street invite you to enjoy the best Mozambican flavors and the picturesque setting of Mouraria.

 

Casanova

Casanova is a classic among Lisbon restaurants.

Considered the best pizzeria in the Portuguese capital, Casanova lives up to its fame.

The wood oven pizzas with fresh ingredients are hard to beat, and the atmosphere is great.

You can seat inside on the canteen-style tables or choose a place on the terrace overlooking Tagus River.

Either way, Casanova doesn’t take reservations so arrive early if you don’t want to wait in line.

 

Terra

The award-winning Terra is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Lisbon.

Located in Príncipe Real, it offers a big buffet with delicious veggie versions of traditional Portuguese dishes, and desserts à la carte that are to die for.

In the summer, you can eat out on the terrace and enjoy the Lisbon sun.

Highly recommended even if you’re not a vegetarian.

 

 

Where to stay in Lisbon

The Independente Hostel & Suites

“Not quite a hotel, more than just a hostel.” That’s how The Independente describes itself.

With a perfect location between Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto, The Independente is set in an old palace and beautifully decorated in art deco style.

It offers bunk bed dorms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, in a distinct and bohemian atmosphere.

There’s no room service, mini-bar, or phones in the rooms. Instead, you have a common kitchen and a guest-only lounge, where you can enjoy communal dinners, movie nights, cooking lessons, or karaoke.

They also have 2 hip and trendy restaurants and bars on site: The Decadente, serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine, and The Insólito, on the rooftop, offering a panoramic view over Lisbon and the Tagus River.

Catering for independent travelers, the goal of The Independente is to make you feel like a local.

Click here for more info and booking.

This Lisbon 3 day itinerary is, of course, not written in stone. You can, and should, adapt it to best fit your preferences and travel style.

There are also many other things to do and see in Lisbon, but if you follow these suggestions I can guarantee you’ll spend 3 perfect days in Lisbon, and will leave wanting to return soon.

 

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More travel tips

Travel Insurance

SafetyWing – Travel insurance is very important and you should never leave home without it! I use and recommend SafetyWing travel medical insurance for travelers, remote workers, and nomads.

They cover overseas medical assistance in case of accident or illness, travel delay or interruption, lost checked luggage, emergency medical or political evacuation, natural disasters, and personal liability, at very competitive prices.

You can subscribe online here for a minimum of 5 days to a maximum of 364 days, or opt for a monthly subscription instead.

 

Cheap flights

Looking for the best airfare deals? Skyscanner is my favorite travel search engine for finding cheap flights around the world. They also offer price tracking and alerts to help you secure the best deals.

 

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, Booking.com is the best site out there. From hotels to apartments, resorts, villas, B&B, and guest houses, it offers the best prices for accommodation all over the world. I book the majority of my stays through them.

 

Yoga Retreats

Looking for a yoga retreat near home or in an exotic destination? BookYogaRetreats offers the best yoga retreats, holidays, and courses around the world for all budgets and levels of experience.

 

Tours

GetYourGuide is my favorite platform for local tours, unique experiences, and skip-the-line tickets to attractions all around the world.

Klook is another great resource for tours and activities, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Asia.

 

Car Rentals

Rentalcars.com is a car rental search engine that compares the biggest brands in car hire and allows you to find the cheapest deals all around the world.

 

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Have you been to Lisbon? What would you add to this 3 days in Lisbon itinerary? Share in the comments section below!

 

Read more:

• Portugal off the beaten path: 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary by a local
• Azores itinerary: things to do in Terceira Island, Portugal
• Top 10 Things to do in Tavira, Portugal

 

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