A 2 Days in Lisbon Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Last Updated on 25th August 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Lisbon or Lisboa as it’s known in Portuguese is the steep hilly capital city of Portugal. A vibrant coastal metropolis characterised by its terracotta roofs and colourful architecture. As one of the oldest cities in western Europe, Lisbon has seen a fascinating history and as a result makes for an enchanting city of intrigue where cultures blend and thrive. Here’s how to spend 2 days in Lisbon itinerary!

Is 2 days in Lisbon enough?

The short answer is yes! Although you won’t be able to see all of Lisbon in two days, you can get a feel for the city and cover a lot of ground in 48 hours, exploring the city’s main landmarks and historical sights, as well as indulging in its cuisine and culture.

If you have even less time, then you can check out our suggestions for how to spend one day in Lisbon and if you’re planning a wider Portugal trip, check out our suggestions for how to spend 10 days in Portugal.

What is Lisbon known for?

Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly coastal capital and largest city, rich with a fascinating history that dates back to 1200 BC. The city is renowned for its fluid blend of cultures which can be traced through its charming neighbourhoods, colourful architecture and delicious cuisine.

One particular flavour that can be felt throughout the city is that of its Islamic culture thanks to the fact that the Moors of North Africa ruled Lisbon as a Muslim city for nearly 500 years.

For even more inspiration, check out our suggestions for the best things to do in Lisbon.

Day 1suggested itinerary

Castelo de Sao Jorge (and view)

Start your time in Lisbon by exploring the former Moorish castle, São Jorge, which has been altered so much by subsequent occupiers that little is left of its original structure.

Despite it being an iconic military monument that was once part of a larger complex defence system, no much is known about the castle. However, there is an archaeological centre on site which allows visitors to uncover more about its history and also displays the oldest piece of evidence that dates back to the 7th century BC.

Thanks to the fact it is perched atop a hill, one of the best things about a visit to the castle is the spectacular views it boasts. Overlooking the Tagus River and Alfama district, you can soak up the intricate pattern of terracotta patchwork roofs, stitched together by a maze of narrow meandering paths.

Santo Antonio

Stop for a sweet treat or morning pastry at Santo Antonio, a fabulous bakery full of charm that has a sign outside which says, “Eat a custard tart and ask Saint Antonio for a miracle”.

Although pretty touristic, this store boasts a beautiful tile façade and, once inside, there are all kinds of treats on offer, including a Portuguese croissant. This bakery also makes our list as one of the best places in the city to buy a pastel de nata in Lisbon!

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Lisbon is often referred to as ‘The City of Seven Hills’, similar to Rome, the Portuguese capital was founded among seven peaks that make up the surrounding landscape. In Portuguese viewpoints are known as miradouros and Lisbon has plenty of them.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a large terrace which sits above the ancient neighbourhood Alfama and boasts unobstructed postcard-perfect views overlooking the terracotta roofs that splay across the landscape and the azure of the sea just behind.

For even more amazing views, check out our full guide to the best views in Lisbon.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Another viewpoint nearby that is a slightly more romantic thanks to its beautifully tiled and arched terrace, is the miradouro of Saint Lucy. Overlooking sweeping views of the city and river, there are also a few eateries along here which means you can enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine with an enchanting view!

Lisbon Cathedral

In the heart of Lisbon is its cathedral, which is officially known as The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, though locals often just refer to the cathedral as Sé. It stands as the oldest church in Lisbon and was initially built as a mosque, when the city was conquered by the Moors and stayed under Arab control for many centuries.

The church was first built in 1147 and despite the several earthquakes and natural disasters that have shook the Portuguese capital, this sacred structure has managed to mostly survive, with the help of renovation and restoration works being made several times. 

Between modifications and changes in religion, it’s for that reason that Lisbon Cathedral is such a mixture of architectural styles; as a result, it has been designated a National Monument.

The cathedral itself is free to enter, though I recommend paying the small fee to visit the Gothic cloister, where you can see traces of the Roman, Arab, and Medieval periods, as well as a small museum.

Arco da Rua Augusta 

The Rua Augusta Arch is a stone-carved memorial that was s built to commemorate the city’s reconstruction after suffering a devastating earthquake in 1755. Today, this historic monument is one of the most visited landmarks of the city.

The impressive archway features six columns and is adorned with various historical figures of significance, the overall structure reaches around 30 meters high into the sky. It was originally built as a bell tower, which is why you can still see a bell atop it today.

If you choose to visit, you can climb up a spiral staircase to the top and view Lisbon from yet another great viewpoint. Similar to that of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, you can view one of Lisbon’s busiest pedestrianised streets from above.

Livraria Bertrand 

The oldest bookshop in Portugal is a treasure trove that resides here in Lisbon. Covered in quintessentially Portuguese ‘azulejos’ (that means ’tiles’ in Portuguese), this Lisboa bookstore dates all the way back to the first half of the 18th-century, firmly placing it in the Guinness Book of World Records as the ‘Oldest Operating Bookshop’, as a plaque proudly indicates at the entrance to the shop.

Church of Saint Roch/ Igreja de São Roque

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful churches in all of Lisbon, the Church of Saint Roch is extremely ornate in design and simply so stunning you could easily spend a few hours taking in all the intricate details of the sacred building.

Built in the 16th century, it was the earliest Jesuit church (Society of Jesus, a religious order) in Portugal and one of the first Jesuit churches anywhere in the world. It’s also one of the very few buildings in Lisbon that managed to survive the devastating earthquake of 1755 relatively unscathed.

The lavish design exudes opulence and it’s more than likely to have been one of the most expensive churches to have been built at its time. Built in a Baroque style, one of the most impressive sights within the church (despite the luxurious gold that adorns all of the intricately carved features) is that of the painted ceiling, so be sure to look up!

There is no entrance fee, though donations are always welcome, and it’s one of the most fascinating and absorbing sacred spaces I’ve ever visited.

Miradouro de Saõ Pedro de Alcântara

Just steps away from the church of Saõ Roque is the ‘viewpoint of St. Peter of Alcántara’, a miradouro which is open day and night and offers one of the best views of the Castelo de Saõ Jorge.

In the summer, the balcony comes to life when part of the wide terrace is transformed into an outdoor festival area, with pop-up stands selling snacks and drinks, as well as live music performances.

Day 2 in Lisbon suggested itinerary

Pastel de Nata Cooking Class

The small sweet custard egg tart has come to be emblematic of the city, with its origins tracing back to before the 18th century when the monks at the Jerónimos Monastery created the sweet treat.

While in Lisbon one of the most unique (and enjoyable) experiences you can partake in is making the delicious pastel de nata pastries for yourself!

Whether you prefer to learn how to cook in a local’s home or enjoy cooking in a more formal cooking class environment, there’s a variety of different pastel de nata baking classes in Lisbon to choose from. 

Time Out Market 

This bustling marketplace is “where you can find the best of Lisbon under one roof”, a concept space that was created in 2014 by the team behind Time Out. The market is set across two levels and filled with a wide choice of eateries and bars.

The modern Portuguese food market is housed within the historic market hall building and is the best place to find fine dining at reasonable prices, as the space has been carefully curated and so some of the best chefs in the city are found serving food in their restaurants here.

The market is open seven days a week from 10 AM – midnight.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

One of the city’s most visited attractions is the Monastery of Jerónimos, a grand and intricately carved sacred building with ornate spires that was built for Vasco de Gama, a Portuguese explorer and nobleman (who is notable as being the first European to reach India).

The wealth generated from Portugal’s period of colonisation led to the construction of monuments, including that of Mosteiro Dos Jeronimo. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also one of the city’s most visited attractions.

The monastery is also the final resting place and tomb of both the famed Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama and the beloved poet of the country, Lus de Camões.

Pasteis de Belém

One of the best afternoon sweet treats to pick up when venturing the city is, of course, the delicious and creamy egg custard tart, and Pasteis de Belem is one of the most iconic and reputable pastel de nata houses in Lisbon.

Originally known as Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém (Belém being translated into English as ‘Bethlehem’), this is the store which makes the original Pastéis de Nata and has used the same original (and oh-so-secret) recipe since 1837.

Belem Tower

End your day slightly outside of the city centre and venture to the suburb of Belem where you can see the striking historical landmark, Belem Tower or Torre de Belém (it’s official name is the Tower of Saint Vincent).

This beautiful 16th-century fortification once served as a point where Portuguese maritime culture was administered, as well as being a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. It’s built from limestone and stands at a height of 30 meters and has four storeys.

Along with Jerónimos Monastery, Belem Tower has earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often thought of as a symbol of Europe’s Age of Discoveries period.

For a fee, you can visit the interior of the beautiful tower. However, the best way to enjoy it is to simply admire the rich and lavish style of the Portuguese Manueline architectural style from the outside. It’s also one of the best spots in Lisbon from which to soak up a sunset!

If you have more time…

Jardim da Quinta dos Azulejos

This 18th-century hidden garden is one of Lisbon’s best-kept secrets! An oasis of peace and tranquillity, where floral wafts of fragrance fill the air, especially a strong smell of Jasmine.

The garden is designed in traditional Moorish fashion, with a central courtyard as well as vine-covered archways, painted tiled walls and paths that are partly hidden thanks to the overgrown luscious nature of the foliage that thrives here.

Palace Fronteira

Located outside of Lisbon’s historic centre, in a very quiet pocket of the city, is the former hunting pavilion and palace of  Don João de Mascarenhas, the1st Marquis of Fronteira.

Originally built in 1640 as a summer retreat, to this very day the current marquis still lives there! However, some parts of the palace are open to the public and for a fee, visitors can explore the treasures that lie in and around Palace Fronteira, though only as a guided tour in mornings.

Inside you can see the fabulous interior which is ornately decorated with fine art, the library which is home to over 3,000 books, some of which date back to the 16th century, and the formal dining room which is decorated with portraits of Portuguese noblemen.

The palace is also home to immaculate gardens which were influenced by Italy. Maintained with a pristine maze of trimmed hedges, beautiful sculptures and blue-hued tile work that adorns the garden walls, it’s one of the finest gardens in all of Portugal!

Discover hidden gems

You’ll likely stumble across hidden gems that we haven’t even mentioned while wandering the narrow meandering paths of the city. However, for even more inspiration, check out our full guide on the best-hidden gems of Lisbon.

Food and drink to try in Lisbon

Portugal’s cuisine is heavy in meat and seafood, using bold flavours and local ingredients, it’s typically simple but delicious! Here are a few suggestion of what to try:

• Bachlhau – The Portuguese word for cod, this is the national food of Lisbon which is salted codfish. It’s slightly confusing as there is no set recipe and the Bachlhau is essentially just incorporated into various different recipes. However, it has been eaten here since at least the 16th century!
• Ginjinha – this strong sweet (yet sour) cherry liqueur is made from steeping ginja berries in alcohol, then, post-infusion, spices such as cinnamon and/ or cloves are added, as well as sugar. Alongside Port, it’s an iconic alcoholic beverage of Portugal.
• Grilled Sardines – Portugal as a whole country has strong ties to maritime heritage thanks to its coastal position. One of the most popular snacks eaten is grilled sardines, in fact, it’s also a common scent your nose might pick up while wandering around the city.
• Tosta mista and torrada – Found at almost every café within the city, the delicious and comforting ham and cheese toastie which is a firm favourite around many places in the world.
• Ameijoas a bulhao pato  – Another seafood speciality, this is clams in the sauce. While mussels tend to be a little more buttery, clams offer a saltier ‘straight from the sea’ flavour and are served in a mignonette sauce for this dish.
• Caldo verde – A popular ‘green’ soup of shredded cabbage, potatoes, olive oil, black pepper and salt and mainly flavoured with onion. It’s a simple and warming dish.
• Bifanas – Traditional pork sandwiches; pork is, in fact, the second most consumed meat in Portugal.

Where to stay in Lisbon

If you only have two days in Portugal’s capital then I recommend staying as close to the historic centre as possible, this way you’ll be within walking distance of the main sights. Plus, it’s a beautiful place to base yourself! Here are a few suggestions of where to stay (based on web-reviews):

Dear Lisbon – Gallery House – Set in the trendy neighbourhood of  São Bento, this art-themed hotel is 3 km from São Jorge Castle and 2 km from Lisbon Cathedral, which is easily reached via the tram. Check prices and availability here.

Lisbon Old Town Guest House – There are only two different rooms available here, so you’ll likely need to book far in advance. Boasting of stunning views of either the city or sea, this beautiful guest house is just minutes from local eateries and the Time Out market. Check prices and availability here.

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