My 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary: Trams, Foodie Stops and Sunset Views

Planning 3 days in Lisbon? Here’s the three-day itinerary I’d recommend to a friend, from castle views and wandering Alfama’s streets to popping into beautiful bookshops, sipping Portuguese wine, eating very good seafood and sailing along the Tagus at sunset.

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There’s a particular problem I have every time I visit Lisbon. I arrive thinking I’ve given myself plenty of time, then come home with a longer list of places I want to go back for (admittedly, not a bad problem to have).

I first visited in 2017, and I’ve been returning ever since, usually when London is feeling a little too grey and the thought of sunshine, Portuguese wine and eating outside becomes impossible to resist.

I love that you can spend one morning exploring a centuries-old castle, stop for an outrageously good pork sandwich, and somehow end up drinking a mojito on a rooftop overlooking the very castle you were just in. Lisbon is fabulous.

On my last visit in October, I wandered the waterfront, ate my way through the city’s best seafood, discovered a few new shops and finally went on a sunset cruise. And now, I want the same for you!

With three days in Lisbon, you’ll have time for the main sights alongside the bits of the city you can also discover once you stop following the sightseeing checklist.

Shall we?

P.S. – Only coming to Lisbon for a weekend? I’ve also written a 2-day Lisbon itinerary. Or if you want to add a trip to Sintra and Cascais, have a look at my 4-day Lisbon itinerary.

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Quick Overview: How I’d Spend 3 Days in Lisbon

Day	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Day 1: Old Lisbon	Rossio, Baixa, Praça do Comércio and a bifana	Alfama, the viewpoints and São Jorge Castle	TOPO rooftop drinks and seafood at Ramiro
Day 2: Belém and the river	Jerónimos Monastery, Pastéis de Belém and Belém Tower	MAAT, LX Factory and Ler Devagar	A sunset cruise on the Tagus
Day 3: Neighbourhoods and food	Coffee, vintage shops and the Carmo ruins	Lunch at Time Out Market and a wander through Príncipe Real	Portuguese wine, fado and Bairro Alto

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Is 3 Days in Lisbon Enough?

Personally, I think three days is a brilliant amount of time if it’s your first visit to Lisbon. You can explore the historic centre, spend an afternoon by the river, see a few museums and still make time for the shops, restaurants and wine bars that make Lisbon so lovely.

The one thing I wouldn’t do is squeeze in Sintra or Cascais as a quick half-day. I’ve visited both, and they deserve time. In fact, I liked Sintra enough to spend the night there!

If you can add a fourth day, absolutely consider one of those trips. But with just three, I’d personally enjoy the city itself. There’s more than enough here to keep you busy, believe me.

For even more inspiration, have a look at my best things to do in Lisbon guide.

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Day 1 in Lisbon: Baixa, Alfama, Castle Views and Seafood

Morning: The Main Square and a Proper Portuguese Bifana

9am: Start Around Rossio, Rua Augusta and Praça do Comércio

Start in Rossio Square, then make your way south along Rua Augusta towards the water. I loved wandering through Baixa in the morning, looking up at the old shopfronts and the gorgeous tiled buildings (of which there’s no shortage) before the streets got too busy.

Follow the road towards the Arco da Rua Augusta and you’ll arrive at Praça do Comércio, an enormous yellow-arcaded square with the Tagus stretching out in front of you (if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to stop for a few photographs…).

There’s a little history here too. Lisbon’s royal palace once stood on this waterfront, until the devastating earthquake of 1755. The straight streets around Baixa were laid out when much of the centre was rebuilt afterwards, which is quite a contrast to the winding lanes you’ll find later in Alfama.

11am: Stop for a Bifana at As Bifanas do Afonso

Right, time for something to eat. Like most things, the best bits of life are pretty simple, and there’s no place to learn that better than at As Bifanas do Afonso.

A bifana is a Portuguese pork sandwich, served in a soft water bread roll. The meat in mine was so juicy it practically melted in my mouth. There isn’t anything particularly fancy about it, which is exactly the point. I was thinking about that sandwich long after lunch!

It’s a quick stop rather than a sit-down meal, so pick one up before heading towards Alfama. Cash only.

Afternoon: Lisbon’s Little Streets, Viewpoints and São Jorge Castle

12pm: Make Your Way Through Alfama

From Baixa, head towards Lisbon Cathedral and start making your way uphill into Alfama. The cathedral is one of the city’s oldest churches, and worth admiring on your way even if you don’t go inside.

Then give yourself permission to wander. Alfama is full of narrow streets, tiled houses and little corners where you’ll inevitably stop to take another photograph. Just remember that people actually live in these streets, so be considerate when wandering around.

You’ll probably spot one of Lisbon’s famous yellow trams, too. The 28E tram route is a lovely way to see parts of the old city, but if the queue is enormous, I wouldn’t lose half your day waiting. Watching the trams squeeze through those impossibly narrow lanes is half the fun!

P.S. Wear comfortable shoes with a decent grip. I know I say this a lot, but Lisbon’s hills and slippery cobbles really are not for the weak!

1pm: Stop at Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol

Before you reach the castle, make time for Miradouro de Santa Luzia. It has one of the prettiest little terraces in Lisbon, with blue-and-white tiles and lovely views across Alfama’s red rooftops.

Then walk around the corner to Portas do Sol for a wider view out towards the river. They’re so close together that you may as well visit both, although I’d give yourself time to enjoy the view rather than rushing straight off (and perhaps have a drink here while you do—there are lots of tiny bars and restaurants around the view!).

2pm: Explore São Jorge Castle

From here, it’s time to head up to São Jorge Castle, which was easily one of my favourite historic stops on the trip.

The fortifications date back to Lisbon’s Moorish period, and Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, captured the castle in 1147. It later served as a royal residence, so there’s plenty of history behind the beautiful views you’ll inevitably add to your camera roll.

I’d give yourself an hour or two to explore the walls and gardens, and definitely book your castle tickets in advance if you’re visiting on a busy weekend.

Evening: Rooftop Mojitos and a Seafood Feast

5pm: Have a Rooftop Drink at TOPO

After all that walking, I think we’ve earned a drink. Make your way down towards Martim Moniz and find the lift up to TOPO, on the sixth floor of the shopping centre.

I had a mojito here on my last trip while looking back towards the very castle I’d just explored, which was a rather lovely way to end the afternoon. There are DJ nights here too, so if there’s music when you go, even better!

P.S. – You can see a few more of my favourite spots in my Lisbon rooftop bars guide.

7pm: Seafood at Cervejaria Ramiro

If you love seafood, I would very happily send you to Cervejaria Ramiro for dinner. It’s busy, lively and old-school and a nice respite from trendy Lisbon.

We ordered garlic prawns, mussels and their glorious buttery bread (which can only be compared to eating love). Genuinely one of my favourite meals from the entire trip.

Definitely try to reserve a table in advance, especially for dinner. Then head back to your hotel for a well-earned rest, because there’s plenty more Lisbon to come.

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Day 2 in Lisbon: Belém, MAAT, LX Factory and a Sunset Cruise

Morning: Beautiful Lisbon Buildings and Warm Custard Tarts

9:30am: See Jerónimos Monastery

To kick off your second day in the city, I’d head west to Belém and begin at Jerónimos Monastery.

Commissioned by King Manuel I in the early sixteenth century, the monastery is one of the grandest reminders of Portugal’s age of exploration (which, of course, includes the colonies of Portugal and the history that comes with it).

The cloisters are absolutely beautiful, with incredibly intricate stone carvings, including ropes and maritime details worked into the architecture, so I’d allow at least an hour—otherwise the façades are still well worth the visit.

P.S. The monastery is normally closed on Mondays, and the church has different visiting hours on Sundays. Check the official opening times before planning your day.

11am: Have a Pastel de Nata at Pastéis de Belém

Next, pastries! You’re only a short walk from Pastéis de Belém, which has been making its famous custard tarts since 1837 (using a recipe linked to the nearby monastery…).

I’d order a couple while they’re still warm, add a little cinnamon and have them with a coffee. And yes, there may be a queue. But for a first visit to Belém, it’s worth it.

11:45am: Admire Belém Tower by the Water

Afterwards, wander down towards Belém Tower, a small fortress that stands proud at the edge of the Tagus. Built in the early 1500s, it was designed to help defend the river entrance to Lisbon (along with the monastery, it’s now a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site).

I love it as a photo stop, especially with the river behind it, but I wouldn’t feel obliged if you’d rather save time for the museum and waterfront this afternoon.

On your way back east, you’ll also pass Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the huge riverside monument commemorating Portugal’s maritime expeditions.

It’s absolutely worth seeing in my opinion, but I’d keep the stop brief if you’ve already spent a while at the monastery.

Afternoon: Exploring the Art Scene, Lisbon’s Bookshops and the Waterfront

Popped into VENUS, an exhibition by Joana Vasconcelos featuring Valentino Garavani’s designs on my October visit.

1pm: Explore MAAT Beside the River

Next, I’d make my way to MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology), which I absolutely loved on my last visit. For starters, the building itself is gorgeous, with white curves sweeping towards the Tagus and the enormous Ponte 25 de Abril bridge behind it. But the exhibitions inside are also worth their salt.

I’d do a potter outside here before heading to the rooftop for the views (if it’s open). Inside, the museum has a changing programme of contemporary art exhibitions, so it’s worth checking what’s on before you go.

P.S. – MAAT is normally closed on Tuesdays, so if it’s closed, enjoy the building and riverside from the outside before carrying on!

2:30pm: Lunch and Book Browsing at LX Factory

From MAAT, head towards Alcântara and LX Factory, a former industrial complex now filled with independent shops, cafés, restaurants and one particularly beautiful bookshop (take a bus or taxi if your feet need a break, because there’s still plenty of day ahead!).

The bookshop to pin is Ler Devagar, and I could have spent ages in there. Its towering shelves climb up the old factory walls, with old printing machinery still part of the space and even more to discover upstairs.

Half the pleasure is simply dipping in and out of shops that catch your eye, so have an explore, stop for lunch depending on what you fancy and, if there’s room, have a slice of chocolate cake from Landeau Chocolate…but don’t plan anything too heavy!

Late Afternoon: A Little Time Beside Ponte 25 de Abril

If you’ve still got time before your cruise, I’d make a little detour to the Santo Amaro docks, where Ponte 25 de Abril towers over the waterfront. The bridge looks remarkably like San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge from some angles, and I loved getting to see it from down here.

On my own riverside wander, we stopped at Rui dos Pregos – Docas for a coffee beneath the bridge. It’s a lovely place to have a rest before heading out onto the water.

P.S. – Check your boat tour’s actual meeting point and departure time first. Some cruises leave from other docks, so I’d skip this detour rather than risk missing the sailing.

Evening: Sunset Sailing on the Tagus

Sunset: Take a Two-Hour River Cruise

For your second evening, I’d make time for a sunset cruise on the Tagus.

I booked this two-hour sailing trip with history and wine and it was absolutely my top highlight from the trip. We sailed towards Ponte 25 de Abril, with the sincerely gobsmacking Cristo Rei statue across the water. We enjoyed Portuguese wine and a pastel de nata, and listened in as our local guide shared stories and histories of the city.

I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

Be sure to choose a sunset departure, as sailing times change throughout the year, and double-check the meeting point on your ticket. You can also browse my Lisbon boat tours guide if you’d like to compare other options.

Afterwards, I’d keep dinner flexible. Depending on where your cruise returns, you might fancy a light meal around Cais do Sodré or simply heading back towards Chiado for a glass of wine. You’ve already had a pretty full day!

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Day 3 in Lisbon: Cafés, Vintage Shops, Wine and Fado

Now for the extra day that (in my opinion) makes a three-day trip so worthwhile. After the castle, the museums and the big waterfront sights, I’d spend today doing some of my favourite things in any city: stopping for coffee, popping into shops, enjoying a long lunch and seeing where the afternoon takes me.

There are still a few historic places along the way, of course. But I wouldn’t make today feel like another race around Lisbon.

Morning: Coffee, Shopping and a Little Lisbon History

9:30am: Have a Lovely (Slow) Lisbon Breakfast

On your final day, it’s time to take up a Portuguese approach to mornings with a slow breakfast.

For a caffeine and brunch fix, I loved The Folks on my October trip. There are several branches (and quite attractive staff, I must say), so choose whichever works for your morning. I’ve got plenty more ideas in my Lisbon café guide.

11am: Vintage Shopping Around Baixa and Chiado

I always seem to end up vintage shopping when I travel, and Lisbon was no exception! While here, I’d definitely make some time to browse the independent shops around the centre, especially if you love finding something you couldn’t have bought back home.

One of the coolest places I visited was A Outra Face da Lua, a vintage clothing shop on Rua da Assunção in Baixa always worth having a browse.

I also loved exploring Malala Vintage in Graça and the Humana Vintage branch, but for a proper afternoon of secondhand shopping, be sure to read my Lisbon vintage shops guide.

12pm: Pop Up to the Carmo Ruins

If you’ve got the energy before lunch, I’d make the short climb towards Convento do Carmo, home to the striking remains of a Gothic church with its roof open to the sky.

The church was badly damaged in the 1755 earthquake, and its enormous stone arches are still standing centuries later. They’re a lovely contrast to the busy shopping streets nearby.

If you want to explore the site and archaeological museum, check the Carmo Archaeological Museum website before visiting.

Afternoon: A Portuguese Lunch and a Wander Through Príncipe Real

1:30pm: Lunch at Time Out Market Lisboa

Next, make your way down towards Cais do Sodré and Time Out Market Lisboa. It can be busy, yes (and is certainly not the cheapest place to eat in Lisbon), but I still think it’s a fun stop if you want to try a few different dishes in one place.

I had the Portuguese Polvo à Lagareiro (traditional grilled octopus) from Chef Marlene Vieira’s counter on my last trip and really enjoyed it. Paired it with a glass of white wine, perfection.

3:30pm: Príncipe Real & Jardim da Estrela

For the afternoon, I’d make your way back uphill towards Príncipe Real, a Lisbon neighbourhood that’s worth some unhurried time. You’ll find independent shops, leafy streets, and lots of little places to stop for a coffee and a garden in the middle of it all.

From here, you can make your way towards the green, quiet and local Jardim da Estrela for a read and a sit-down (or their weekend market if you time it right). Mercado de Campo de Ourique is just around the corner for a Time Out Market alternative.

Evening: Portuguese Wine, Live Fado and Bairro Alto

6pm: Wine and Petiscos at By The Wine

For your final evening, I’d head towards Rua das Flores in Chiado and settle in at By The Wine.

From a ceiling covered in wine bottles to sinfully good Portuguese wine and petiscos, it’s a great place to tuck in before fado.

Book ahead or be prepared for a queue!

8pm: Listen to Fado With a Glass of Wine

One thing I think every first-time visitor to Lisbon should experience is live fado. It’s a musical tradition that grew out of Lisbon’s neighbourhoods in the nineteenth century, full of songs about love, longing and everything in between.

I booked this intimate fado show with wine on my last trip and thought it was such a lovely way to spend an evening. There’s something particularly wonderful about ending a day of 20k steps sitting down, switching off for a little while and listening to music that tells you about the city. Not one to miss!

Later: Have A Little Wander Through Bairro Alto

If you’re not quite ready for bed after fado, you’re in the right city. I’d have a wander through Bairro Alto to see which bars are lively, where the music is coming from and whether there’s a lovely final glass of Portuguese wine to be had.

On my last trip, I ended up dancing outside near São Pedro de Alcântara and it was easily one of the best memories from the trip.

I can’t promise there’ll be a DJ when you go, of course, but see if you’re lucky!

P.S. – If you get peckish later, stop at M’arrecreo Pizzeria, right across from the square.

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Where I’d Stay for 3 Days in Lisbon

For a three-day trip, I’d definitely consider staying in Chiado. You’ll be well placed for Lisbon’s best cafés and shops, with plenty of places to head out for wine or dinner in the evenings.

I stayed at Palácio das Especiarias on my last Lisbon visit and absolutely adored it. The interiors are full of old-house character, the staff were lovely and the breakfast was fabulous.

The building also has foundations dating back to the sixteenth century, and the location is brilliant for exploring Rua das Flores and Bairro Alto. I’d happily go back.

I’ve written a full Palácio das Especiarias review if you want a closer look, and a Lisbon boutique hotels guide if you’re comparing different places to stay.

P.S. – Lisbon has a serious housing crisis, with short-term holiday rentals (like Airbnbs) adding pressure to the local housing supply. Where possible, I’d encourage choosing a hotel over a home rental in Lisbon, particularly an independent, locally run one.

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Getting Around Lisbon for 3 Days

Lisbon is a wonderful city to explore on foot, but it’s also a very hilly one. I’d wear your comfiest shoes with a good grip, especially for the cobbled streets around Alfama. The hills are not for the weak!

For the longer journeys, use the Metro, trams, buses or taxis. I wouldn’t hire a car for this itinerary, and I certainly wouldn’t spend an entire morning queuing just to ride Tram 28E. You’ll see plenty of those beautiful yellow trams as you walk around anyway.

And if you’re arriving at Lisbon Airport, the Metro or an Uber are your best bets.

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How to Spend Longer in Lisbon (Plus Sintra and Cascais)

National Palace of Pena, Sintra

If you can stretch your trip to four days, I’d seriously consider a day out of the city. Sintra is wonderful for its palaces, gardens and slightly fairytale atmosphere, and Cascais makes a lovely seaside escape. I’ve been to both multiple times!

On my most recent visit, I stayed overnight in Sintra at Chalet Saudade and really enjoyed having the evening there after the day-trippers had gone home.

I also spent time in Cascais, including a stay at the Kimpton Quinta da Marinha outside the town centre. Both are worth seeing, but I personally wouldn’t try to squeeze them in a three-day trip.

If you do decide to extend your trip, use my Sintra day-trip guide, Lisbon to Cascais train guide or 4-day Lisbon itinerary.

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Final Thoughts on Spending 3 Days in Lisbon

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from all my visits to Lisbon, it’s that I never seem to run out of reasons to go back.

Three days is enough to see the castle, enjoy Belém, take a wonderful sunset cruise and still give yourself a little time for a bookshop, a vintage find or an unplanned glass of Portuguese wine.

But as always, make sure you leave room for some unplanned moments too. They’ve given me some of my favourite memories of this city!

Have the most fabulous time in Lisbon.

Happy travels,

Candace x

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FAQ: 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary

Is 3 days enough to visit Lisbon?

Absolutely! Three full days are ideal for a first trip, I’d say. You can explore Baixa and Alfama, spend a day in Belém and along the river, then save your last day for cafés, shops and a lovely Lisbon evening.

How would you spend 3 days in Lisbon?

I’d give day one to the old centre and São Jorge Castle, day two to Belém, MAAT, LX Factory and a sunset cruise, and day three to Chiado, food stops, Príncipe Real and fado. It’s a much nicer route than zigzagging across the city.

Should I visit Sintra or Cascais during a 3-day Lisbon trip?

Personally, I’d stay in Lisbon for all three days if it’s your first visit. If you’ve been before, Sintra is wonderful for palaces and gardens, while Cascais is lovely for the coast. I’d give either most of a day.

Where should I stay in Lisbon for 3 days?

I’d look around Chiado or Baixa for a first visit. I personally loved staying at Palácio das Especiarias in Chiado, especially for its character, breakfast and walkable location.

Do you need a car for 3 days in Lisbon?

No, and I wouldn’t recommend one for this itinerary. Between walking, the Metro, trams and taxis, it’s easy enough to get around. You’ll probably be glad to avoid parking on the city’s narrow streets, too!

Is the Lisboa Card worth it for 3 days?

It could be, especially if you’re going inside attractions such as São Jorge Castle and Jerónimos Monastery and taking plenty of public transport. But I’d compare the current Lisboa Card inclusions with the individual tickets you’d actually buy before deciding.

What if it rains during my Lisbon trip?

I’d spend more time in MAAT, browsing Ler Devagar or visiting the monastery if it’s open. And there’s always a good excuse to settle into one of Lisbon’s lovely cafés with a coffee and a pastel de nata. Just check the weather terms on your boat booking.

What should I eat in Lisbon?

For me, it would be a pork bifana at As Bifanas do Afonso, the garlic prawns and buttery bread at Cervejaria Ramiro and a warm custard tart from Pastéis de Belém. I also loved the octopus from Chef Marlene Vieira’s counter at the Time Out Market.

Is Lisbon walkable?

Yes, but those hills are serious! Baixa is relatively flat, while Alfama and parts of Chiado and Príncipe Real involve steep streets and steps. I’d wear comfortable shoes every day of your trip and happily take a taxi uphill when needed.

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