Lisbon in 3 days: a day-by-day itinerary

Lisbon works well over three days if you plan by neighbourhood: Alfama and the castle first, then Baixa, Chiado and Bairro Alto, and finally Belém by the river. It's a hilly city, so bring comfortable shoes.

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Day 1. Alfama and the castle

  1. Castelo de São Jorge

    Start at the top, at São Jorge Castle: walls and the best views in the city. Entry is paid.

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  2. Miradouro de Santa Luzia

    On the way down, the Santa Luzia viewpoint, with tiles and views over the Alfama rooftops and the Tagus.

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  3. Sé de Lisboa

    Lisbon's 12th-century cathedral, a few minutes' walk away.

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  4. Alfama

    Get lost in the lanes and stay for dinner at a fado house.

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💡 Tram 28 runs through Alfama but is usually packed: walking up or taking a tuk-tuk is more pleasant.

Day 2. Baixa, Chiado and Bairro Alto

  1. Praça do Comércio

    The great riverside square. Walk under the Rua Augusta arch into the Baixa.

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  2. Chiado

    Historic cafés, bookshops and shops. The Santa Justa lift has long queues: you can walk up via Carmo instead.

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  3. Mercado da Ribeira

    Lunch at the Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market), with stalls from Portuguese chefs.

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  4. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

    At sunset, the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint, facing the castle.

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  5. Bairro Alto

    Dinner and nightlife in the streets of Bairro Alto.

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Day 3. Belém and LX Factory

  1. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

    Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of the Manueline style. Closed on Mondays, so avoid that day.

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  2. Pastéis de Belém

    Next door, the original custard tarts. The queue moves fast, or you can eat inside.

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  3. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

    The Monument to the Discoveries on the riverbank, with a compass rose set into the pavement.

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  4. Torre de Belém

    Belém Tower, a symbol of the city. Check the opening hours before you go: it's closed on Mondays.

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  5. LX Factory

    On the way back, a former factory turned into shops, bookshops and restaurants.

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💡 Belém is about 15 minutes away by tram 15 or by train from Cais do Sodré.

Practical tips

  • Lisbon is very hilly: comfortable shoes are a must.
  • A rechargeable transport card works on the metro, trams, buses and the train to Belém.
  • Belém's monuments close on Mondays: keep that day for Alfama or the centre.
  • With a spare day, Sintra is about 40 minutes by train from Rossio station.

Frequently asked questions

Are 3 days enough for Lisbon?

Yes to get to know the city: Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Belém. A fourth day allows a trip to Sintra or Cascais.

Is tram 28 worth it?

The route is lovely, but it's usually crowded and pickpockets operate there. Ride it early or explore the area on foot.

Which day should I avoid for Belém?

Monday, when Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower are closed.

Make it yours

Plannit builds an itinerary around your interests and dates, with a map, photos and transport between stops.

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Opening hours and rules can change: check the official websites before you go.