Planning a trip to Lisbon? Only have 3 days?
This stunning city is basically Instagram come to life, with its pastel buildings, vintage trams, and those gorgeous tiles everywhere you look. Here’s how to make the most of your 3 days in Portugal’s capital – from someone who’s obsessed with finding both the tourist highlights and those hidden gems.
Day 1: Historic Vibes in Alfama & Downtown
Morning: Alfama Wanderings
Start your day in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets – trust me, getting lost here is half the fun! Head to Miradouro de Santa Catarina (R. de Santa Catarina) for that perfect morning coffee with a view of the city. Grab a pastry at Confeitaria Nacional (Praça da Figueira 18B) – it’s been around since 1829!
Afternoon: Cultural Must-Sees
- São Jorge Castle (R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo) – Worth the uphill trek for the best views of the city. Pro tip: go about 2 hours before sunset. Entry is €10.
- Sé Cathedral (Largo da Sé) – This massive cathedral is free to enter and gives major Game of Thrones vibes.
- Time Out Market (Av. 24 de Julho 49) – Perfect lunch spot! It’s a food hall with literally everything you could want. Try the bacalhau (salted cod) from any vendor – it’s a Portuguese staple.
Evening: Fado & Food
Head to Fado ao Carmo (R. do Carmo 39) for dinner and fado music around 8 PM. Book in advance! If you’re still up for it, grab a drink at Pensão Amor (R. do Alecrim 19) – a former brothel turned ultra-cool bar with amazing cocktails.
Day 2: Trendy Neighborhoods & Modern Lisbon
Morning: Belém District
Take tram 15E to Belém early to beat the crowds. Your first stop? Pastéis de Belém (R. de Belém 84-92) for the original custard tarts. Yes, there will be a line. Yes, it’s worth it.
Must-sees in Belém:
- Jerónimos Monastery (Praça do Império) – Gorgeous architecture, €10 entry
- Tower of Belém (Av. Brasília) – That iconic tower you see on postcards
- MAAT Museum (Av. Brasília) – If you’re into modern art and amazing architecture
Afternoon: LX Factory & Príncipe Real
- LX Factory (R. Rodrigues de Faria 103) – An old industrial complex turned creative hub. Don’t miss Ler Devagar, probably the coolest bookstore you’ll ever see.
- Príncipe Real – Super trendy area with great shopping. Check out Embaixada (Praça do Príncipe Real 26) – a shopping gallery in a gorgeous old palace.
Evening: Pink Street & Bairro Alto
Start your night at Park Bar (Calçada do Combro 58) – it’s literally on top of a parking garage with incredible views. Then head to Pink Street (R. Nova do Carvalho) for bar hopping. Try Pensão Amor or Sol e Pesca for quirky vibes.
Day 3: Local Life & Hidden Gems
Morning: Mercado de Campo de Ourique
Start your day at this local market (R. Coelho da Rocha) – way less touristy than Time Out Market but just as delicious. Grab some fresh fruit and pastries for breakfast.
Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure
Option 1: Beach Day
Take the train to Cascais (40 mins from Cais do Sodré station) for beautiful beaches and coastal vibes. Rent a bike and ride along the ocean to Guincho Beach.
Option 2: Urban Explorer
- Explore Graça neighborhood – Check out Miradouro da Graça for views
- Visit Jardim do Torel (R. Júlio de Andrade) – A hidden garden with amazing city views
- Explore the Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens (Av. de Berna 45A) – Perfect for art lovers
Evening: Sunset & Dinner
End your trip with dinner at Pharmacia (R. Marechal Saldanha 1) – a pharmacy-turned-restaurant with amazing food and cocktails. Bonus: it has a gorgeous view of the river.
Practical Tips:
Getting Around
- Get a Viva Viagem card (€0.50) and load it with money for public transport
- Uber works great here and is relatively cheap
- Wear comfy shoes – those hills are no joke!
Where to Stay
- Chiado: Perfect central location, bit pricier
- Bairro Alto: Great for nightlife
- Alfama: Most charming, but very hilly
- Recommended hostels: Selina Secret Garden, Yes! Lisbon Hostel
- Mid-range hotels: The Independente, Casa C’Alma
Money-Saving Tips
- Lisboa Card: Worth it if you’re hitting lots of attractions
- Free walking tours start at Praça Luís de Camões daily at 10 AM
- Many museums are free on Sundays until 2 PM
Safety Tips
- Lisbon is generally very safe for solo female travelers
- Keep an eye on your belongings in touristy areas
- The city is active late, so you’ll rarely be alone in main areas
- Save offline Google Maps – the narrow streets can get confusing
Remember, Lisbon is super laid-back, so don’t try to pack too much in. Leave time for just wandering and discovering your own favorite spots. The best moments often happen when you’re just getting lost in those charming streets!