1 day in Lisbon itinerary
A balanced one-day Lisbon itinerary mixing classic viewpoints, authentic local food, neighborhoods (Alfama, Chiado, LX Factory), relaxed breaks and realistic transfers using mostly walking or short public/taxi rides.
Highlights
- Pastéis de nata at Manteigaria (Chiado)
- Historic Praça do Comércio and Elevador de Santa Justa
- Alfama: Sé Cathedral and Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Lunch at the local-favorite Cervejaria Ramiro (seafood)
- Creative LX Factory and Ler Devagar bookstore
- Views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
- Dinner tapas-style at Taberna da Rua das Flores and a nightcap at Pavilhão Chinês
Itinerary
Day 1
One-day loop through central Lisbon covering Chiado, Baixa, Alfama, LX Factory and Bairro Alto with relaxed pacing.
Breakfast: Pastel de Nata at Manteigaria (Chiado)
Start with one of Lisbon's best custard tarts and a coffee in Chiado.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a pastel de nata fresh from the oven and a bica (espresso).
- Sit inside or take it to-go and stroll toward Praça do Comércio.
Transfer: Walk to Praça do Comércio
Pleasant walk downhill from Chiado through Baixa to the riverfront square.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow Rua Garrett and Rua Augusta — the pedestrian streets are lively.
- Allow a few extra minutes for photos on the way.
Attraction: Praça do Comércio (Terreiro do Paço)
Explore the grand riverside square and take in the Tagus views.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk under the triumphal arch (Arco da Rua Augusta) for good photos.
- This is a great spot for early-morning light and fewer crowds.
Transfer: Walk to Elevador de Santa Justa
Short walk uphill to the historic lift connecting Baixa and Carmo/Chiado viewpoints.
Tips from local experts:
- If lines at the lift are long, the viewpoint at the top is also accessible via the Carmo Convent area.
- Bring small change if you choose to use the elevator cabin itself.
Attraction: Elevador de Santa Justa (view & brief visit)
Enjoy panoramic city views from the top platform and the Neo-Gothic structure.
Tips from local experts:
- Top platform offers great views of the Baixa grid and São Jorge Castle in the distance.
- Peak photos are best before midday light gets harsh.
Transfer: Walk up to Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)
A short but uphill walk into the heart of Alfama toward the cathedral.
Tips from local experts:
- Streets are steep and cobbled — wear comfortable shoes.
- Enjoy the small side streets and local bakery windows en route.
Attraction: Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)
Visit Lisbon's oldest cathedral and its calm cloister area.
Tips from local experts:
- Entry is modest; check opening times if you want to go inside.
- Take a moment in the cloister — it's peaceful and less crowded.
Transfer: Short walk to Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Walk a few minutes through Alfama's lanes to a well-loved viewpoint.
Tips from local experts:
- The path includes narrow alleys — enjoy the tilework and local laundry lines.
- Miradouro is a popular photo spot, but early afternoon is still pleasant.
Attraction: Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Relax at this scenic terrace with sweeping views over Alfama and the river.
Tips from local experts:
- Great spot for relaxed photos and to watch local life in the neighborhood.
- There are benches and shaded spots—perfect for a short rest.
Transfer: Walk to Cervejaria Ramiro (lunch area)
Walk from Alfama toward Intendente/Cais do Sodré area for a renowned seafood lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a slightly longer walk — you can opt for a short taxi if preferred.
- Arrive a bit early for shorter wait times (no reservations at peak lunch).
Meal: Lunch at Cervejaria Ramiro (seafood)
Enjoy a classic Lisbon seafood lunch — clams, prawns, tiger shrimp and garlic butter.
Tips from local experts:
- Try their garlic prawns and the house buttered bread; ask the staff for seasonal specialties.
- Service is efficient but expect a lively atmosphere — share dishes if you want to taste more.
Transfer: Short ride to LX Factory (Alcântara)
Take a short taxi/tram ride to Lisbon's creative hub on the riverside.
Tips from local experts:
- A taxi is ~10–15 minutes depending on traffic; public tram/bus options are available too.
- Wear comfortable shoes — LX Factory is best explored on foot.
Neighborhood: Explore LX Factory & Ler Devagar bookstore
Browse independent shops, street art, cafes and the iconic Ler Devagar bookstore.
Tips from local experts:
- Ler Devagar is great for design and photography books — allow time to explore.
- Grab a coffee at one of the riverside cafés if you want to rest.
Transfer: Return toward Chiado / Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Head back across the river to Bairro Alto/Chiado for an elevated city view.
Tips from local experts:
- Tram/taxi from LX Factory to Chiado/Cais do Sodré takes ~20–30 minutes depending on mode.
- This transfer includes short walks at each end.
Attraction: Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara (viewpoint)
Enjoy panoramic city photos with Castelo de São Jorge in the background.
Tips from local experts:
- Good vantage point for afternoon light and to orient yourself over the city.
- Vendors sometimes sell snacks — bring small change.
Break: Coffee at A Brasileira (Chiado)
Short coffee break at one of Lisbon's historic cafés in Chiado.
Tips from local experts:
- The café is historic — indoor seating is ornate; it's touristy but a classic local stop.
- Try a bica or a local sweet alongside your coffee.
Neighborhood: Stroll & shop along Rua Augusta (Baixa)
Walk down the pedestrian Rua Augusta for local shops, street performers and central energy.
Tips from local experts:
- Great place to pick up small souvenirs or simply enjoy the pedestrian atmosphere.
- Keep an eye on pickpockets in crowded areas.
Transfer: Walk to Jardim do Torel (short rest)
Head to a quieter park for a short rest and a local feel away from busy streets.
Tips from local experts:
- The lift from the lower streets can shorten the walk uphill if you prefer.
- Garden offers shaded benches and a calm pause in the day.
Break: Rest at Jardim do Torel
Relax for a short while, enjoy the view and recharge before evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Ideal for a few minutes offline to regroup or check directions for the evening.
- Small kiosk nearby for a snack if needed.
Transfer: Walk to Taberna da Rua das Flores (dinner area)
Short transfer into the Chiado/Small Streets dining area for an authentic dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Taberna is small and popular; try to arrive on time or be willing to wait briefly.
- No large luggage — streets are narrow and busy in the evening.
Meal: Dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores
Enjoy a cozy, local-style dinner with seasonal small plates and Portuguese flavors.
Tips from local experts:
- Menu changes frequently — ask for daily specials and small plate recommendations.
- Seats are limited; arriving slightly earlier reduces waiting at busy times.
Transfer: Short walk to Pavilhão Chinês (Bairro Alto)
Walk up to a famous, characterful bar for a relaxed nightcap.
Tips from local experts:
- Pavilhão Chinês is atmospheric and often busy — arrive early for a table.
- Cash and card are accepted, but evenings can be crowded.
Nightcap: Drinks at Pavilhão Chinês
Finish the day with a drink in this quirky, cabinet-filled bar beloved by locals.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a classic Portuguese cocktail or a local ginjinha if available.
- The décor is the main attraction — take time to look around the rooms.
