Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Here’s a detailed three-day itinerary including must-visit places, opening hours, costs, transportation options, food recommendations, weather, and the best time to visit.
Day 1: Exploring Historic Lisbon
Morning
- Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Cost: €6
- Transportation: Tram 15 from city center
- Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic tower offers stunning views of the Tagus River.
- Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Cost: €10
- Transportation: Walk from Belém Tower (10 minutes)
- Description: Another UNESCO site, renowned for its Manueline architecture.
Lunch
- Place: Pastéis de Belém
- Cost: €1.20 per pastry
- Description: Famous for its Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts).
Afternoon
- Belém Cultural Center (Centro Cultural de Belém)
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Cost: Free to explore, exhibitions vary
- Transportation: Walk from Jerónimos Monastery (5 minutes)
- Description: Contemporary arts complex with various exhibitions and performances.
- MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Cost: €9
- Transportation: Walk from Belém (15 minutes)
- Description: Modern museum with impressive architecture and exhibits.
Evening
- LX Factory
- Opening Hours: Shops and cafes open until late
- Transportation: Bus 714 or 727
- Description: Trendy area with shops, restaurants, and street art.
Day 2: Alfama and Baixa
Morning
- São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Cost: €10
- Transportation: Tram 28 or bus 737
- Description: Offers panoramic views of Lisbon and the river.
- Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Cost: Free
- Transportation: Walk from São Jorge Castle (10 minutes)
- Description: Oldest church in the city, dating back to the 12th century.
Lunch
- Place: Time Out Market
- Cost: €10-€20 per meal
- Description: Variety of Portuguese and international cuisines.
Afternoon
- Praça do Comércio
- Description: Large public square with stunning views of the river.
- Transportation: Walk from Time Out Market (10 minutes)
- Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa)
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Cost: €5.30
- Transportation: Walk from Praça do Comércio (10 minutes)
- Description: Neo-Gothic elevator with great city views.
Evening
- Chiado and Bairro Alto
- Description: Explore these vibrant neighborhoods known for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
- Transportation: Walk from Santa Justa Lift
Day 3: Modern Lisbon and Sintra
Morning
- Parque das Nações
- Description: Modern district with many attractions like the Lisbon Oceanarium.
- Transportation: Metro Red Line to Oriente station
- Lisbon Oceanarium (Oceanário de Lisboa)
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Cost: €19
- Description: One of the largest aquariums in Europe.
Lunch
- Place: Altice Arena food court
- Cost: €10-€15 per meal
- Description: Variety of dining options.
Afternoon
- Day Trip to Sintra
- Transportation: Train from Rossio Station to Sintra (€4.50 round trip, 40 minutes)
- Attractions:
- Pena Palace
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Cost: €14
- Description: Colorful, fairy-tale castle with panoramic views.
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Cost: €10
- Description: Romantic palace with extensive gardens and mysterious wells.
- Pena Palace
Evening
- Return to Lisbon
- Transportation: Train back to Rossio Station
Additional Information
Weather and Best Time to Visit
- Best Time: March to May and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
- Weather: Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters are mild and rainy, with temperatures around 8-15°C (46-59°F).
Food Recommendations
- Bacalhau à Brás: A traditional dish made with salted cod, potatoes, and eggs.
- Francesinha: A hearty sandwich originally from Porto but popular in Lisbon.
- Ginjinha: A popular cherry liqueur served in small bars.
Transportation
- Public Transport: Efficient and includes metro, trams, buses, and trains.
- Lisboa Card: Consider purchasing for unlimited travel and free/discounted entry to many attractions.
Enjoy your trip to Lisbon!
