2 days in Lisbon itinerary
2-day balanced Lisbon plan mixing viewpoints and neighborhoods (Alfama, Baixa, Belém), key museums, riverside walks, local meals and relaxed pacing. Built around walking + short transfers; avoids long tourist queues where possible.
Highlights
- Alfama viewpoints & São Jorge Castle
- Belém: Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Torre de Belém and pastéis
- MAAT and Museu Nacional dos Coches
- LX Factory for local shops and creative scene
- Authentic local restaurants (seafood & small tavernas)
Itinerary
Day 1
Historic core: Alfama & Baixa — viewpoints, castle, cathedral, local seafood and a relaxed evening in Chiado/Bairro Alto.
Breakfast at Pois Café (Alfama)
Relaxed breakfast in a cozy Alfama cafe to kick off the day.
Local tips:
- Try a Portuguese coffee and a light pastry — seating is comfortable for planning the morning.
- Arrive early to avoid the later morning crowds in Alfama.
Walk Alfama: Miradouro de Santa Luzia & Portas do Sol
Leisurely walk through the maze-like streets, stopping at classic viewpoints and artisan shops.
Local tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes — narrow, cobbled streets and some steep sections.
- Visit both Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol for different views over the river.
Castelo de São Jorge (view & history)
Explore ramparts and terraces for panoramic city views and a concise museum area.
Local tips:
- Buy tickets on arrival if lines are short; early visits are less crowded.
- Allow time for the viewpoints on the southern walls for the best light.
Quick visit: Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)
Short stop to admire the cathedral exterior and the compact interior chapels.
Local tips:
- Interior is small — 15–25 minutes is usually enough unless there's a service.
- Combine photos here with a short walk down to the riverfront.
Lunch at Cervejaria Ramiro (seafood)
Classic Lisbon seafood house loved by locals — order shellfish and the house buttered bread.
Local tips:
- Expect a wait at peak times; arrive a bit early or be prepared to queue — it's worth it.
- Ask staff for seasonal seafood specials; save room for the garlic shrimp or clams.
Break & view: Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastor)
Short rest with an open view across the river; good for coffee or a quick drink.
Local tips:
- This viewpoint is popular with locals for sunsets; daytime is calmer for a brief break.
- If you prefer a rooftop bar vibe, Park (Rooftop Bar) is nearby.
Stroll Baixa & Praça do Comércio
Flat, walkable streets, plazas and the riverside square — great for photos and local shops.
Local tips:
- Walk down Rua Augusta to the river for classic Lisbon views.
- If you need souvenirs, choose small shops off the main tourist lanes for better prices.
Short ride on Tram 28 (segment) — Martim Moniz to Baixa
Experience a short, scenic tram segment to see narrow streets without doing the full tourist loop.
Local tips:
- Use only a short segment to avoid the long full-route queues; validate your ticket before boarding.
- Keep belongings secure — trams can be lively and crowded.
Dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores (Chiado)
Popular small tavern serving Portuguese small plates in a lively Chiado side street.
Local tips:
- No reservations on all nights — arrive early or expect a short wait; sharing plates is ideal.
- Tell staff any dietary restrictions; they can recommend a good selection.
Day 2
Belém and west-of-center highlights in the morning; creative LX Factory and evening views in Chiado/Bairro Alto.
Transfer to Belém (train or tram from central Lisbon)
Short transfer to Belém by tram/train or taxi; set up base for the day's attractions.
Local tips:
- Cais do Sodré is a good departure point for trains; verify schedules in advance.
- If using tram 15 or train, buy a return ticket to avoid queues later.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery)
Masterpiece of Manueline architecture — visit the church and cloisters.
Local tips:
- Buy tickets early or use a combined ticket if you plan to visit multiple Belém sites.
- Allow time for the cloisters and photographic details on the facade.
Pastéis de Belém: pastry break
Taste the original pastéis de nata from the historic bakery.
Local tips:
- The bakery can be busy; takeaway lines move fast if seating is full.
- Enjoy a warm pastel with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a bica (espresso).
Torre de Belém (Belém Tower) — riverside stop
Iconic riverside fort; explore exterior terraces and take photos along the Tagus.
Local tips:
- The tower is small inside; focus on the waterfront walk and photo angles.
- Combine this visit with the riverside promenade for pleasant walking.
MAAT — Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (exterior & brief visit)
Modern riverside museum with striking architecture and accessible terraces.
Local tips:
- The building is worth photographing from multiple angles; check small exhibitions inside.
- There is a cafe (Darwin's) for a casual riverside lunch option.
Lunch at Darwin's Café (MAAT area)
Casual riverside lunch at the MAAT cafe — light plates and a relaxed atmosphere.
Local tips:
- Good spot for lighter lunches and drinks with a view of the river.
- If you prefer a more formal meal, several nearby restaurants in Belém offer fuller menus.
Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum)
World-class collection of royal coaches — a quieter, very local museum highlight.
Local tips:
- This museum is popular but less crowded than some central attractions; audio guides help the visit.
- Photography inside may be restricted — check signage.
Break at Centro Cultural de Belém (riverside walk & coffee)
Short rest with options for galleries, a coffee or a riverside stroll.
Local tips:
- The center often hosts exhibitions and is a calm place to regroup.
- Riverside promenade nearby is ideal for a slow walk before moving on.
Transfer to LX Factory (Alcântara)
Short transfer west along the river to the creative cluster of LX Factory.
Local tips:
- A taxi or short tram/bus ride is convenient if you're carrying purchases.
- Check opening hours for shops and galleries — many are open until early evening.
Explore LX Factory (shops, galleries and cafes)
Browse independent shops, bookstores, street art and relaxed cafes in a creative industrial complex.
Local tips:
- Good place to buy local design items and enjoy a relaxed late-afternoon atmosphere.
- Look out for rooftop terraces for good photo opportunities across the river.
Dinner: Sea Me - Peixaria Moderna (Chiado)
Modern Portuguese seafood dining with a local feel in Chiado — mixes tradition with creative dishes.
Local tips:
- Popular spot; reserve if possible or expect a short wait.
- Try small plates to sample a variety of flavors.
Evening viewpoint: Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Short evening stroll to this elevated viewpoint for city lights and a relaxed end to the day.
Local tips:
- Great spot for sunset and evening city panoramas; nearby bars and cafes if you want a nightcap.
- It's an easy walk from Chiado and Bairro Alto.