What to do in Lisbon in 3 days

Lisbon is one of those cities that you don’t just visit: you live. Between endless climbs, iconic trams, miradouros with breathtaking views and a golden light unique in Europe, the Portuguese capital is perfect for an intense but incredibly fulfilling 3-day trip.

In this itinerary I take you to discover the most authentic neighborhoods, unmissable attractions and the most scenic spots for photos (and memorable sunsets).

Where to stay

For an elegant stay in a strategic position, I definitely recommend Altis Grand Hotel.

It is located in a perfect area for easy access to the historic center, the Bairro Alto and the main attractions, but at the same time offers a refined and relaxing atmosphere. Ideal if you want a luxury stay as a travel blogger, with well-kept rooms, top services and a beautiful view of the city.

The historic heart: Baixa, Rossio and Chiado

The ideal starting point is Praça do Comércio, one of the most iconic squares in the city, open on the Tagus.

From here walk through the famous Rua Augusta, between shops, clubs and street life, until you reach Praça do Rossio and the beautiful Rossio Station.

A few steps away you will find the iconic Elevador de Santa Justa, from which you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the center.

Continuing you enter the Chiado district, elegant and lively, perfect for a coffee break or shopping.

Not to be missed also:

Carmo Church
Luís de Camões Square

Alfama: the authentic soul of Lisbon

The most iconic neighborhood is undoubtedly Alfama.

Here Lisbon shows its most authentic face: narrow alleys, azulejos, flowery balconies and fado music coming out of the premises.

The unmissable stops are:

Lisbon Cathedral of Lisbon
Church of Saint Anthony
São Jorge Castle

To immerse yourself even more in the local atmosphere, get on the famous Tram 28.

The most beautiful views can be found in the miradouros:

Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Bairro Alto, Pink Street and the funiculars

For the coolest and liveliest part of the city, explore Bairro Alto and Pink Street.

They are perfect areas for aperitifs, dinner and nightlife.

Absolutely also try the historic funiculars:

Elevador da Glória
Elevador da Bica
Elevador do Lavra

And for the sunset:

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Belém and the great symbols of the city

The Belém area is a must.

Here you can find:

Belém Tower
Monument of discoveries
Jerónimos Monastery

And of course a stop from Pastéis de Belém is mandatory.

The modern Lisbon

For a perfect contrast with the historic center, visit the Parque das Nações.

Must see:

Oceanário di Lisbona
Teleférico de Lisboa
Tower Vasco da Gama
Eastern Station

Trip out of town: Sintra

If you are planning a trip to Lisbon, spending a day in Sintra is one of the best experiences you can have. Located about 40 minutes from the capital, Sintra is an almost surreal place: colorful palaces, castles surrounded by vegetation and a romantic atmosphere that seems to come out of a fairy tale

The easiest way is the direct train from Rossio Station with a duration of about 40 minutes. Once you arrive, you will find yourself in the center of Sintra, from which the main attractions are far away and uphill. The best solution is the Scotturb Bus 434 tourist bus. This bus makes a perfect circular route for visitors and connects the main points.

What to see in Sintra

Palácio da Pena

The symbol of Sintra (and one of the most iconic in Portugal). Bright colors, towers and panoramic terraces.

👉 Tips:

Go early in the morning
Expect a lot of people
Even just the gardens are worth a visit

Castelo dos Mouros

An ancient Moorish fortress immersed in nature.

👉 Why it’s special:

Incredible view of Sintra and the ocean
Less crowded than Pena
Super scenic path on the walls

Quinta da Regaleira

One of the most fascinating and mysterious places.

👉 Not to be missed:

The initiatory well (iconic for photo)
Underground tunnels and symbolic garden.
Almost “magical” atmosphere

Where to eat and drink in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that you also live at the table: between traditional cuisine, scenic restaurants and rooftops overlooking the Tagus, every moment of the day can become an experience.

For a typical and authentic dinner in the heart of Alfama, the most iconic place is Clube de Fado, where you dine accompanied by live fado music, in an intimate and very characteristic atmosphere.

If you are looking for something more modern or panoramic, great options are Seen Lisboa, elegant and overlooking the city, and Pharmacia, creative and overlooking the river. For fish, inevitable Cervejaria Ramiro, one of the most famous in the city, while for a super spectacular dinner on the water Ponto Final is one of the most special experiences to do.

For aperitifs and rooftops, Lisbon gives the best at sunset. Among the best: Park Bar hidden above a parking lot with super cool vibe, Sky Bar Tivoli more elegant and refined, Topo Martim Moniz overlooking the castle and the rooftops, and Memmo Alfama Rooftop more intimate and perfect for a drink at sunset on Alfama.

For nightlife, just move between Bairro Alto and Pink Street, where the bars follow one after another and the atmosphere remains alive until late at night.

TheDocTraveler