Lisbon in 48 Hours — Romantic food, wine & sunset escapes
A relaxed 2-day couples' escape through Alfama, Chiado and Belém focused on intimate viewpoints, excellent local food and two unforgettable sunset moments — a rooftop cocktail and a Tagus river sunset. Unhurried pacing with easy transfers and special moments each evening.
Highlights
- Rooftop sunset cocktails at PARK (Bairro Alto)
- Sunset on the Tagus (evening cruise from Cais do Sodré)
- Fresh pastéis de nata in Belém and the nearby Jerónimos Monastery
- Intimate wine tasting in Chiado at By The Wine
- Quiet, winding lanes and viewpoints in Alfama (Santa Luzia)
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival day centered on Alfama and Chiado: check in, a relaxed stroll through Alfama's viewpoints, a rooftop cocktail for sunset and a special dinner in Chiado.
Check in and settle — Memmo Alfama Hotel
Arrive and leave bags in a room with river-facing options. Take a moment to freshen up before a relaxed afternoon wandering Alfama.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a river-view room when you check in for a quiet, romantic outlook — small extra fee but great for morning light.
- If you have luggage, ask reception for a porter to avoid narrow Alfama stairs; many rooms involve steps.
- Confirm a late-cleaning preference if you plan a late dinner (keeps the room tidy while you enjoy the night).
Transfer: Walk/short taxi to Chiado
A short, scenic transfer from Alfama to Chiado — winding streets and gentle hills. Take a taxi if you prefer less walking.
Tips from local experts:
- Walking is the most romantic option (gives glimpses of local life) but expect cobbled streets — wear supportive shoes.
- If you prefer a faster option, request a short taxi (drivers know shortcuts); save a photo of the destination address for the driver.
- Carry change for small tram/taxi fares — most drivers appreciate exact amounts for short hops.
Leisure lunch at A Taberna da Rua das Flores
Cozy, beloved small plate tavern — seasonal Portuguese dishes served in an intimate setting. Book ahead or arrive early to avoid a wait.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve in advance (tiny space) or arrive just before the usual lunch rush to get a snug table for two.
- Ask for the day's small plates to share — perfect for tasting and a leisurely, intimate meal.
- This place can be noisy at peak times; request a corner table for more privacy when you book.
Stroll Alfama & Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Wander Alfama's maze of alleys to the Santa Luzia viewpoint — azulejo walls and sweeping views over terracotta roofs and the Tagus.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the quieter backstreets (not only the tourist route) for more intimate photo spots and fewer crowds.
- Bring a light jacket for the breeze at the viewpoint during golden hour — it gets cooler by the river.
- Pause at a tile-adorned wall for a photo; early evening light softens the colors beautifully for couples' portraits.
Coffee & pastry break at Pois Café
A relaxed cafe break in a book-lined, cozy setting — a low-key place to rest and plan the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a corner seat if available — it feels like a private nook for two.
- Share a pastry and a small espresso to keep the afternoon light before the rooftop cocktail.
- If mobility is a concern, request a table on the main floor (some spots have steps).
Special moment — Rooftop cocktails at PARK Bar
Head up to PARK, a rooftop bar on a car park with one of the city's best sunset vistas — cocktails, mellow music and city lights turning on.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 15–30 minutes before sunset for the best light and a good window seat — ask staff for a high-facing view if possible.
- Share one signature cocktail and a small plate so you can sip slowly and watch the sky change together.
- PARK involves stairs to the rooftop — take a taxi if stairs are a concern and ask staff for assistance if needed.
Romantic dinner at Belcanto
A refined, intimate dining experience (Michelin-starred) — tasting menus celebrate Portuguese flavors in an elegant setting.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve well in advance and mention you are celebrating as they often add a small romantic touch.
- Choose the tasting menu with wine pairing if you want a full, worry-free culinary journey together.
- There is limited late-night transport in the area; arrange a short taxi for the return journey if you prefer not to walk.
Day 2
Belém morning (pastéis and monuments), a relaxed lunch back in the center, afternoon wine tasting in Chiado and a sunset cruise on the Tagus followed by a farewell seafood dinner.
Transfer to Belém (tram or taxi)
Scenic transfer along the riverfront to Belém — choose tram 15 for atmosphere or a taxi for faster travel with less walking.
Tips from local experts:
- The tram is romantic and iconic but can be crowded; take a taxi if you prefer a private, relaxed ride.
- If you take the tram, board near Praça do Comércio for seats facing the river and best views.
- Save a screenshot of directions; some drivers prefer neighborhood names over full addresses for short trips.
Breakfast: Pastéis de Belém
Taste the original pastéis de nata in the historic bakery — a sweet, flakey must-try and a classic Lisbon experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Go early to beat lines and enjoy fresh, warm pastries straight from the oven — share a couple with coffee.
- Sit inside for a quieter moment together; the shop has a large interior but mornings are best for calm.
- Bring cash for quicker ordering during busy times, though cards are accepted at most counters.
Visit Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery)
A calm, grand monastery with intricate Manueline architecture — a romantic, contemplative cultural stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy timed tickets ahead to avoid queues and choose a quieter mid-morning slot for a peaceful experience.
- Move slowly through the cloisters and look for intimate carved details — great moments for quiet conversation.
- There are cobbled paths outside; wear comfortable shoes and bring a light layer for breeze near the water.
MAAT riverside stroll & contemporary art visit
Explore MAAT's modern galleries and the riverside promenade for open vistas and modern architecture photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroll the riverside first for unobstructed views, then pop into MAAT — the building itself is photogenic at golden hour.
- Check the temporary exhibition schedule and pick one gallery to keep the visit intimate and unrushed.
- Seating areas outside are perfect for a quiet moment together overlooking the Tagus.
Transfer back to central Lisbon (Chiado area)
Return to central Lisbon for a relaxed lunch and afternoon tasting — taxi recommended for comfort.
Tips from local experts:
- Opt for a taxi to save time and energy — you'll want fresh feet for the afternoon wine tasting.
- If you prefer tram, choose a seat on the river side for the best views and hold your belongings close.
- If you bought museum tickets, ask if they offer any combined transport tips at the desk for quicker routes back.
Lunch at Prado
Light, seasonal plates with a focus on Portuguese produce — a relaxed, modern lunch to fuel the afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a midday table in advance; a window seat or corner table will feel more intimate.
- Share a few plates rather than a single main to keep things leisurely and social.
- Ask staff for local wine suggestions that pair well with fresh seasonal dishes for a true Portuguese pairing.
Chiado stroll & light shopping
Wander Chiado's elegant streets, pause at small boutiques and enjoy a slow coffee — low-key, romantic shopping.
Tips from local experts:
- Browse small design shops for a thoughtful memento rather than larger tourist stores.
- Stop for a short sit in a square if you spot a quiet bench — great for people-watching together.
- Avoid carrying large purchases before the cruise — store them in your hotel if possible.
Intimate wine tasting at By The Wine (Chiado)
A thoughtfully curated Portuguese wine bar offering tastings and small plates — ideal for couples who enjoy exploring local wines.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a tasting flight that focuses on Portuguese regions you haven't tried to keep the experience personal and educational.
- Request to sit at the bar area if available — it's cozier and lets you chat with staff about pairings.
- Take notes (or photos) of bottles you enjoyed so you can look them up later or ask the staff for purchase suggestions.
Transfer to Cais do Sodré (cruise boarding area)
Short transfer to the riverfront boarding point for the sunset cruise — relaxed walk or a 10–15 minute taxi.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk if the weather is nice (flat, pleasant riverside route) to build anticipation for the cruise.
- If you pre-booked a cruise, carry the confirmation on your phone and arrive 15–20 minutes early to board calmly.
- Bring a light wrap for the boat; river breezes intensify as the sun sets.
Special moment — Sunset cruise on the Tagus River (boarding at Cais do Sodré)
One-hour sunset cruise on the Tagus for soft-light city views, gentle waves and a memorable shared moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a small cruiser or a seats-up-front option if possible for uninterrupted views of the skyline together.
- Bring a small camera or phone with a stabilizer/steady hand for low-light photos; complimentary glass-of-wine options are common on many operators.
- Wear a light layer and non-slip shoes — boat decks can be cooler and slightly uneven at sunset.
Farewell seafood dinner at Sea Me - Peixaria Moderna
Modern take on Portuguese fish and seafood in a lively but refined setting — great for a memorable final meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table early (preferably a quieter corner) to keep the mood intimate despite the restaurant's popularity.
- Opt for a mixed seafood selection to share — it encourages conversation and tasting variety.
- Ask the sommelier for a lighter Portuguese white wine or a house pairing to complement the seafood without overpowering it.
