3 days in Lisbon itinerary
3-day balanced Lisbon itinerary mixing historic neighborhoods, museums, riverside Belém, creative LX Factory, parks and local restaurants. Walk, short transfers by tram/foot, relaxed pacing with breaks and rooftop views.
Highlights
- Alfama & Castelo de São Jorge
- Belém pastries, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos & MAAT
- LX Factory creative hub
- Museu Calouste Gulbenkian and Jardins
- Príncipe Real, Bairro Alto nightlife and viewpoints
Itinerary
Day 1
Historic Baixa, Chiado and Alfama: pastries, viewpoints, castle, evening rooftop drink and seafood dinner.
Breakfast: pastéis de nata at Manteigaria
Start with classic pastéis de nata in Baixa. Grab a couple to go or sit inside.
Tips from local experts:
- Try them warm.
- Lines move quickly if you arrive early.
- Pay by card or cash.
Transfer: walk under the Rua Augusta Arch
Short walk through the pedestrian Rua Augusta to the riverfront square.
Tips from local experts:
- Quick photos from the arch viewpoint.
- Watch for street performers on the promenade.
- Comfortable shoes recommended.
Praça do Comércio (Terreiro do Paço)
Riverside plaza with grand façades — a good orientation point for Lisbon's historic centre.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk the riverside esplanade toward the Tagus.
- Good spot for wide-angle photos.
- Shaded benches available along the quay.
Transfer: short walk up to the Santa Justa Lift
Climb toward the Elevador de Santa Justa for views and easy access to Chiado.
Tips from local experts:
- There are stairs and escalators; this saves effort.
- Tickets for the lift can be purchased on site (or use public transit card).
- Expect a short wait at busy times.
Elevador de Santa Justa and viewpoint
Historic iron lift with a viewing platform over Baixa and the castle.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy a return ticket or use Viva Viagem/24h ticket if available.
- Best photos toward the castle and rooftops.
- Expect queues mid-day.
Chiado stroll and coffee at Café A Brasileira
Wander Chiado's shops and pause for coffee at the historic Café A Brasileira.
Tips from local experts:
- Watch for small boutique shops and bookshops.
- Sit outside if weather is good to people-watch.
- Try a bica (Portuguese espresso).
Transfer: walk to Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
Short walk to Cais do Sodré area for a lively food market lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Grab a window seat overlooking the market stalls.
- If busy, explore a few vendors before picking a seat.
- Keep small change for quick purchases.
Lunch: Time Out Market Lisboa
Choose from local chefs and market stalls — good variety and quick service.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a mix of small plates to sample Portuguese flavors.
- Reserve a table at popular stalls where possible.
- This is a lively, social spot — plan for lines at peak times.
Transfer: walk/short tram to Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)
Head to Alfama to explore the cathedral and medieval lanes.
Tips from local experts:
- Streets are steep and cobbled; comfortable shoes help.
- Consider a short tram ride if you prefer not to walk uphill.
- Have water for the Alfama stroll.
Sé de Lisboa and Alfama wander
Visit the cathedral interior, then stroll through Alfama's narrow streets and local life.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for small crafts shops and laundry-lined lanes.
- Be respectful during private moments at churches and homes.
- Great photo opportunities from side streets.
Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle)
Explore the castle ramparts, archaeological sites and sweeping city views.
Tips from local experts:
- Tickets can be bought on site; earlier afternoon avoids the biggest crowds.
- Allow time to climb and enjoy viewpoints.
- Bring sun protection in summer.
Break: Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Relax at this photogenic viewpoint overlooking Alfama and the river; good for snacks or a short rest.
Tips from local experts:
- Bench seating and shaded spots are limited; go early for best spots.
- Great tilework and azulejo backgrounds for photos.
- Light snacks available from nearby kiosks.
Transfer: walk down to Hotel Mundial for a short rest
Return toward Baixa to freshen up before evening plans.
Tips from local experts:
- If you are not staying here, use this time to sit and rest in a central hotel lobby or cafe.
- Bathrooms and seating available.
- Keep an eye on pickpockets in crowded areas.
Hotel rest / freshen up
Short hotel break to rest and change for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to recharge devices and plan the evening route.
- If not staying here, a coffee shop nearby works as a rest stop.
- Check dinner reservation times.
Transfer: walk to Park Bar rooftop
Walk or short taxi up to Park Bar for a rooftop drink at sunset.
Tips from local experts:
- Stairs to the rooftop; elevator not available from street level.
- Arrive slightly before sunset for best light.
- Small cover charge may apply on busy nights.
Rooftop drinks at Park Bar
Relaxed rooftop with views over the city — great to unwind before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Cocktails and small plates available.
- Summer evenings can be busy; arrive early.
- Dress smart-casual for a nicer atmosphere.
Dinner: Cervejaria Ramiro (seafood)
Classic Lisbon seafood house known for fresh shellfish — a local favorite.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect queues; if you have a reservation give yourself buffer time.
- Try the garlic shrimp and shellfish platters.
- Cashless payments accepted; confirm opening hours ahead.
Day 2
Belém monuments and museums, then creative LX Factory, rooftop viewpoint and Bairro Alto dinner.
Breakfast: Pastéis de Belém
Iconic custard tarts from the original pastry shop in Belém.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to avoid the longest lines.
- Try multiple pastries to compare textures.
- Pair with espresso or a milk coffee.
Transfer: short walk to Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Walk along the riverside garden to the monastery complex.
Tips from local experts:
- Enjoy river views on the walk.
- There are informative panels about the Age of Discoveries.
- Wear sun protection in summer.
Visit: Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Renaissance monastery, UNESCO site, and masterpiece of Manueline architecture.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time for cloisters and the church interior.
- Audio guides or short guided tours add context.
- Tickets recommended during high season.
Transfer: short walk to MAAT
Walk along the riverfront to MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture & Technology).
Tips from local experts:
- The riverside promenade is pleasant for photos.
- MAAT's exterior is architecturally striking.
- Ticketed entry for exhibitions.
Visit: MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture & Technology)
Contemporary museum with changing exhibitions and riverside terraces.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk out on the museum's sloping roof for views of the Tagus.
- Check current exhibitions before visiting.
- Cafe terrace is pleasant for a short rest.
Torre de Belém (Belém Tower)
Compact riverside fortress — quick visit and photos from the quay.
Tips from local experts:
- Combine with a riverside walk past maritime monuments.
- If busy, photos from the riverfront are still great.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the tower interior.
Transfer: to LX Factory (tram/taxi)
Short drive/tram ride across to Alcântara for LX Factory lunch and browsing.
Tips from local experts:
- Tram or short taxi recommended if you prefer less walking.
- Keep a map of LX Factory's main lanes — it's easy to get lost in the lanes of shops.
- Check opening times of specific shops if you have a target.
Lunch at Cantina (LX Factory)
Casual, local favorite within LX Factory — many options nearby if you prefer something else.
Tips from local experts:
- Try seasonal dishes and share plates.
- After lunch, explore the bookshop 'Ler Devagar' nearby.
- Comfortable shoes for the cobbled site.
Explore LX Factory (shops & street art)
Spend time browsing concept stores, bookstores, galleries and street art in a converted industrial complex.
Tips from local experts:
- Ler Devagar bookstore is a highlight for book lovers and photos.
- Look for local design shops for unique souvenirs.
- Weekends are lively; mid-afternoon is calmer on weekdays.
Transfer: head to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara / Topo Chiado
Move back toward the city centre for an elevated viewpoint and sunset drinks.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time for a taxi or tram depending on traffic.
- This viewpoint offers sunset city panoramas toward the river and castle.
- Bring a light layer as evenings can be breezy.
Rooftop break: Topo Chiado (view & drinks)
Rooftop bar with views across the city — a relaxed pre-dinner stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve or arrive early for the best terrace spots.
- Order a light snack if staying until dinner.
- Watch for changing light for great photos.
Stroll Bairro Alto
Explore the narrow streets and hidden squares of Bairro Alto before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Boutique shops and small bars are abundant here.
- Bairro Alto livens up after dark; this stroll is ideal before dinner.
- Keep a note of your return route — streets can be maze-like.
Dinner: Bairro do Avillez (Chef José Avillez's restaurant)
Modern Portuguese dishes in a lively, well-regarded setting in Chiado.
Tips from local experts:
- Book ahead — this spot is popular.
- Tasting options available; staff can recommend local wines.
- Allergy requests handled well with advance notice.
Day 3
Museum morning at Gulbenkian, Estrela and Príncipe Real parks, markets and an evening in Bairro Alto/Príncipe Real with a great modern seafood dinner.
Breakfast: specialty coffee
Start with high-quality coffee and a light breakfast in a trusted local roaster.
Tips from local experts:
- Good moment to plan museum and market visits for the day.
- Ask the barista for local pastry recommendations.
- Bring a small umbrella in autumn/winter just in case.
Transfer: to Museu Calouste Gulbenkian
Short tram/taxi ride east to the Gulbenkian grounds.
Tips from local experts:
- Public transport is efficient; consider a short taxi if pressed for time.
- The museum sits within pleasant gardens — leave time to wander.
- Check opening hours and any temporary closures.
Visit: Museu Calouste Gulbenkian (collections & gardens)
World-class collection spanning ancient to modern art with lovely grounds to stroll.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time for both the collection galleries and the surrounding gardens.
- Audio guides are available for deeper context.
- The museum cafe is pleasant for a mid-visit break.
Stroll: Jardim Gulbenkian
Short walk in the museum gardens to relax and enjoy landscaping and sculptures.
Tips from local experts:
- Nice spot for a light picnic if you picked up snacks earlier.
- Benches and shaded areas available.
- Great for photos of the pond and sculptures.
Lunch: Mercado de Campo de Ourique
Local market with a variety of Portuguese stalls and relaxed neighborhood vibe.
Tips from local experts:
- Try small dishes from multiple stalls to sample local flavors.
- This market is popular with locals — a good less-touristy option.
- Nearby shops in Campo de Ourique are pleasant to browse after lunch.
Transfer: to Basílica da Estrela
Walk or short tram/taxi to the Estrela area and its beautiful basilica and garden.
Tips from local experts:
- The area is residential and calm — a good contrast to busier tourist zones.
- Take time to admire the baroque façade.
- Local cafes nearby for a refreshment.
Visit: Basílica da Estrela and Jardim da Estrela
Explore the ornate basilica interior, then relax in the leafy Jardim da Estrela park.
Tips from local experts:
- The park has a small cafe and is popular with families and dog-walkers.
- The basilica viewpoint gives a good city perspective.
- Ideal spot for a calm afternoon break.
Jardim da Estrela: relaxed stroll
Take time to linger in the park, people-watch and enjoy a coffee at a nearby kiosk.
Tips from local experts:
- If you missed a coffee earlier, this is a pleasant spot to sit.
- Look for local families and weekend markets if present.
- Benches and shaded paths make it an easy stop.
Transfer: short walk to Príncipe Real
Walk up to the Príncipe Real gardens and boutique streets.
Tips from local experts:
- Príncipe Real is compact and best explored on foot.
- Streets have nice shops and concept stores.
- Check small antique and design shops if interested.
Jardim do Príncipe Real & neighborhood browsing
Enjoy the small park, look into local shops and a relaxed neighborhood vibe.
Tips from local experts:
- Visit the Saturday organic market if it's the weekend.
- Nice selection of small design shops and local bakeries.
- Good area for relaxed window-shopping.
Break: rooftop drinks at INsólito
Stylish rooftop bar with a view over Príncipe Real and the castle in the distance.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table for sunset if possible.
- Cocktails and small plates available.
- Comfortable spot to rest before dinner.
Dinner: Sea Me - Peixaria Moderna (modern seafood)
Contemporary take on Portuguese seafood and sushi — excellent for a lively last-night dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends.
- Ask for the chef's suggestions to try local fish preparations.
- Share plates for the best variety.
Evening: Bairro Alto bars and live music (optional)
Finish the trip with a relaxed bar crawl in Bairro Alto — many small bars and live music venues.
Tips from local experts:
- Tasca do Chico is a well-known fado/folk venue — check schedules.
- Keep an eye on closing times and transport options back to your accommodation.
- Consider a late-night pastel de nata if you're still peckish.
