16 Things To Do In Alfama
Alfama is Lisbons’ oldest and most traditional neighbourhood. Its name comes from the Arabic word “Al-hamma”, meaning hot fountains or baths. Alfama was actually a thriving Muslim district when Portugal was under moorish control from 711 AD, until around 1249 AD. Alfama is a special area in Lisbon as it is home to wonderful history, stunning views and unbelievable tasty restaurants.
Here are Activities In Portugal best things to do in Alfama.
Here are Activities In Portugal best things to do in Alfama.
Best Things To Do In Alfama Contents
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Fado Restaurants
Alfama and Fado go hand in hand, the area is full of Fado restaurants and Fado music. Fado music originated in the area in the early 19th century. Fado is mournful and full of sorrow, the main content is based on missing sailors on long and dangerous journey on the seven seas.
In the 19th century Alfama was full of the poor families of sailors out at sea. Many sailors lost their lives on the dangerous seas and Fado was an expression of the fear of losing a loved one.
The music is full of saudade, one of the most beautiful and untranslatable words in Portuguese. It generally translates that deep, soulful longing for someone or something that’s gone. like a memory wrapped in emotion. It is usually bittersweet, a mix of love, loss, nostalgia, and yearning all at once.
Experience Fado at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area.
Check out the best fado restaurants in Alfama below.
In the 19th century Alfama was full of the poor families of sailors out at sea. Many sailors lost their lives on the dangerous seas and Fado was an expression of the fear of losing a loved one.
The music is full of saudade, one of the most beautiful and untranslatable words in Portuguese. It generally translates that deep, soulful longing for someone or something that’s gone. like a memory wrapped in emotion. It is usually bittersweet, a mix of love, loss, nostalgia, and yearning all at once.
Experience Fado at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area.
Check out the best fado restaurants in Alfama below.
Dona Amália – Casa de fado
🌟Rated 4.8
R. de São João da Praça 10, 1100-520 Lisboa
🌟Rated 4.8
R. de São João da Praça 10, 1100-520 Lisboa
Sr. Fado de Alfama
🌟Rated 4.5
R. dos Remédios 168, 1100-445 Lisboa
🌟Rated 4.5
R. dos Remédios 168, 1100-445 Lisboa
Fado Museum
One of the most famous Fado singers of all time was Amelia and you will find the art work “Wall Of Amália Rodrigues’ by Vhils.
At the Fado museum you can find more information on Amelia and other artisits.
Opened on the 25 September 1998 the Fado Museum has been providing cultural events and educating tourists on Lisbon’s urban song universe.
🕰️ Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(Last admission at 5:30 PM)
Closed on Mondays
🎟️ Admission Prices
Adults (26–64 years): €5.00
Youth (13–25 years): €2.50
Seniors (65+): €4.30
Children (0–12 years): Free
Lisboa Card holders: €4.00
Carristour ticket holders: €3.50
People with disabilities (with escort): €4.30
At the Fado museum you can find more information on Amelia and other artisits.
Opened on the 25 September 1998 the Fado Museum has been providing cultural events and educating tourists on Lisbon’s urban song universe.
🕰️ Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(Last admission at 5:30 PM)
Closed on Mondays
🎟️ Admission Prices
Adults (26–64 years): €5.00
Youth (13–25 years): €2.50
Seniors (65+): €4.30
Children (0–12 years): Free
Lisboa Card holders: €4.00
Carristour ticket holders: €3.50
People with disabilities (with escort): €4.30
Watch 10 things to do in Alfama Lisbon
Casa dos Bicos
Built in 16th century by the son of the second governor of Portuguese India.
Inspired by Italian Renaissance and the palaces of Bologna, he covered the outside of the building with diamond shaped stones that gives the building a spikey appearance.
It is currently where the José Saramago Foundation is based, José Saramago is the Portuguese Nobel Prize winner for Literature in 1998. You can learn more about him at the exhibition.
Even if you do not want to enter the exhibition taking time out to view the exterior is a must. The building is unique special, it even survived the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake, which you can learn more about by reading our Lisbon Fun Facts.
🕰️ Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(Last entry at 5:30 PM)
Closed on Sundays
🎟️ Admission Prices
Standard ticket: €3.00
Family ticket (up to 2 adults): €8.00
Student ticket (with valid ID): €2.00
Children under 12: Free
Seniors (65+): €2.00
Lisboa Card holders: €2.00
Joint ticket (access to other Museum of Lisbon sites): €6.00
Inspired by Italian Renaissance and the palaces of Bologna, he covered the outside of the building with diamond shaped stones that gives the building a spikey appearance.
It is currently where the José Saramago Foundation is based, José Saramago is the Portuguese Nobel Prize winner for Literature in 1998. You can learn more about him at the exhibition.
Even if you do not want to enter the exhibition taking time out to view the exterior is a must. The building is unique special, it even survived the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake, which you can learn more about by reading our Lisbon Fun Facts.
🕰️ Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(Last entry at 5:30 PM)
Closed on Sundays
🎟️ Admission Prices
Standard ticket: €3.00
Family ticket (up to 2 adults): €8.00
Student ticket (with valid ID): €2.00
Children under 12: Free
Seniors (65+): €2.00
Lisboa Card holders: €2.00
Joint ticket (access to other Museum of Lisbon sites): €6.00
Igreja Sta. Maria Madalena
Igreja de Santa Maria Madalena is a historic church originally founded in 1164 by King Afonso Henriques. It was originally established as a small church and later became part of the Monastery of Santa Maria Madalena.
Like many historical sites in Alfama, the church has been rebuilt many times, specifically after the great earthquake.
The church is a great example of Baroque architecture, with its rich decorative details, ornate altars, and beautiful interior. It is a little less known sister to the Sé and Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon.
Like many historical sites in Alfama, the church has been rebuilt many times, specifically after the great earthquake.
The church is a great example of Baroque architecture, with its rich decorative details, ornate altars, and beautiful interior. It is a little less known sister to the Sé and Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon.
Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon
The Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon is a Baroque-Rococo church built over the birthplace of Saint Anthony, which was believed to be in born 1195. He is Lisbons cities patron saint and this church holds a tomb marking the exact spot of his birth.
Saint Anthony is known as the patron saint of lovers, the poor and the lost. On June 13 Lisbon celebrates him with the famous Santo António Festival.
Today, the Church of Saint Anthony is an active place of worship and is visited by both devotees and tourists.
Saint Anthony is known as the patron saint of lovers, the poor and the lost. On June 13 Lisbon celebrates him with the famous Santo António Festival.
Today, the Church of Saint Anthony is an active place of worship and is visited by both devotees and tourists.
Sé Cathedral
Sé, is the oldest church in Lisbon being built in 1147, it was commised by King Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal.
The Sé is famous for being the first religious building constructed by the 12th century Christian Crusaders. As we mentioned above Alfama was a muslim district and the Sé was built over a former mosque.
Unfortunately in 1755 the church was greatly affected by the great earthquake. It was rebuilt and renovated several times after that, blending different styles, from Romanesque, to Gothic and Baroque.
Saint Vincent is Lisbon’s patron saint, and his relics are housed here. He was a martyr in the 4th century.
Legend says his body was brought to Lisbon guarded by ravens, which is why is you look closely enough you will find ravens all over Lisbon on its coat of arms!
The Sé is famous for being the first religious building constructed by the 12th century Christian Crusaders. As we mentioned above Alfama was a muslim district and the Sé was built over a former mosque.
Unfortunately in 1755 the church was greatly affected by the great earthquake. It was rebuilt and renovated several times after that, blending different styles, from Romanesque, to Gothic and Baroque.
Saint Vincent is Lisbon’s patron saint, and his relics are housed here. He was a martyr in the 4th century.
Legend says his body was brought to Lisbon guarded by ravens, which is why is you look closely enough you will find ravens all over Lisbon on its coat of arms!
Gelado de Alfama
Grab a delicious Portuguese ice cream.
Gelado de Alfama is a cozy ice cream shop in Lisbon’s Alfama district, offering handmade Portuguese gelato. In a city where traditional Portuguese delights are unfortunately becoming more rare, we recommend a visit to this tasty ice cream stop.
Alongside ice creams you can also grab breakfast items, pastries, coffee, fresh juice and bubble tea.
Gelado de Alfama is a cozy ice cream shop in Lisbon’s Alfama district, offering handmade Portuguese gelato. In a city where traditional Portuguese delights are unfortunately becoming more rare, we recommend a visit to this tasty ice cream stop.
Alongside ice creams you can also grab breakfast items, pastries, coffee, fresh juice and bubble tea.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro de Santa Luzia is a picturesque viewpoint framed by vibrant bougainvillea and historic azulejos. It is Portas Do Sol little sister.
Once home to the Santa Luzia Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The pretty viewpoint is a part of the old garden, hence the fountains, the bust of King João I of Portugal and beautiful purple flowers framing this beautiful view.
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is quintessentially Alfama, it is historic, picturesque and brimming Lisbons charm.
These days you will often find buskers often play traditional Portuguese music adding to the quintessential Alfama feel.
Once home to the Santa Luzia Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The pretty viewpoint is a part of the old garden, hence the fountains, the bust of King João I of Portugal and beautiful purple flowers framing this beautiful view.
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is quintessentially Alfama, it is historic, picturesque and brimming Lisbons charm.
These days you will often find buskers often play traditional Portuguese music adding to the quintessential Alfama feel.
Portas Do Sol Miradouro
No doubt you have already seen the view of Lisbon from the viewpoint Portas Do Sol, the image is probably one of the most famous of Lisbon.
This area is definitely a must stop when visiting Lisbon. This iconic viewpoint provides sweeping views of Alfama’s terracotta rooftops, the dome of the National Pantheon and the São Vicente de Fora Monastery.
The name “Portas do Sol”, meaning “Gates of the Sun“, refers to a historic city gate that once stood here. This gate was a part of the Moorish defensive walls that surrounded Lisbon prior to the devastating 1755 earthquake.
You can also admire the beautiful statue of of São Vicente, the patron saint of Lisbon. The statue was installed in 1949 and you can see St Vincente holding a boat with two ravens.
Tourists and locals and stop and admire the view whilst taking in Portuguese Bica (expresso) at the typical Portuguese kiosk.
For the most stunning views, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the city and the golden rays reflect off the river Tagus.
This area is definitely a must stop when visiting Lisbon. This iconic viewpoint provides sweeping views of Alfama’s terracotta rooftops, the dome of the National Pantheon and the São Vicente de Fora Monastery.
The name “Portas do Sol”, meaning “Gates of the Sun“, refers to a historic city gate that once stood here. This gate was a part of the Moorish defensive walls that surrounded Lisbon prior to the devastating 1755 earthquake.
You can also admire the beautiful statue of of São Vicente, the patron saint of Lisbon. The statue was installed in 1949 and you can see St Vincente holding a boat with two ravens.
Tourists and locals and stop and admire the view whilst taking in Portuguese Bica (expresso) at the typical Portuguese kiosk.
For the most stunning views, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the city and the golden rays reflect off the river Tagus.
History of Lisbon Mural by Nuno Saraiva
The “History of Lisbon” a stunning mural by Nuno Saraiva is a vibrant comic style artwork located in an almost hidden tunnel underneath Largo das Portas do Sol.
The art work humorously illustrates key moments from Lisbons past, From its Phoenician origins to the 1974 Carnation Revolution.
We definitely recommend taking time to study the beautiful and informative details of this artwork.
The art work humorously illustrates key moments from Lisbons past, From its Phoenician origins to the 1974 Carnation Revolution.
We definitely recommend taking time to study the beautiful and informative details of this artwork.
National Pantheon
The National Pantheon or Church of Santa Engrácia was built in the17th-century and is the burial place of many important Portuguese personalities. Including notable individuals such as the famous Fado singer Amália Rodrigues, Vasco da Gama – the explorer and the famous Portuguese footballer Eusébio da Silva Ferreira.
It was originally built as a church, but it became a pantheon in the 20th century. The church’s construction began in 1556 and the building wasn’t completed until 1716, that’s two centuries it took to complete. The dome was added later in the 18th century.
The design is baroque and the interior features beautiful marble and baroque decoration, with various chapels and altars. The iconic dome of the Pantheon is also a significant feature, with an impressive 20-meter diameter. Visitiors can actually go up to the dome and view the rooftops of Lisbon, however as someone who is only 1.63 meters I strugged to see over the marble balustrade ( the decorative railing).
It is open Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00 and costs 5 euros to visit.
Impressively the white dome can be viewed from the Portas Do Sol Miradouro. This is one of our favorite 10 Things To Do In Alfama activities.
It was originally built as a church, but it became a pantheon in the 20th century. The church’s construction began in 1556 and the building wasn’t completed until 1716, that’s two centuries it took to complete. The dome was added later in the 18th century.
The design is baroque and the interior features beautiful marble and baroque decoration, with various chapels and altars. The iconic dome of the Pantheon is also a significant feature, with an impressive 20-meter diameter. Visitiors can actually go up to the dome and view the rooftops of Lisbon, however as someone who is only 1.63 meters I strugged to see over the marble balustrade ( the decorative railing).
It is open Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00 and costs 5 euros to visit.
Impressively the white dome can be viewed from the Portas Do Sol Miradouro. This is one of our favorite 10 Things To Do In Alfama activities.
Botto Machado Garden & Feira Da Ladra
Botto Machado Garden is located next to the National Pantheon and is where the flea market, Feira De Ladra, takes place.
Feira Da Ladra is translated to the “theives market” in English. Vendors literally sell anything and everything, from antiques to clothes to plastic toys. It is open on Tuesday and Saturday.
The garden is a tranquil spot with views of the river, plenty of shade, dog and kid park and a cute cafe. It is a locals favourite hang out place.
Feira Da Ladra is translated to the “theives market” in English. Vendors literally sell anything and everything, from antiques to clothes to plastic toys. It is open on Tuesday and Saturday.
The garden is a tranquil spot with views of the river, plenty of shade, dog and kid park and a cute cafe. It is a locals favourite hang out place.
Castelo de S. Jorge
The castle is named after Saint George (São Jorge), the patron saint of soldiers and knights. Saint George is famously depicted as slaying a dragon, a symbol of courage and protection.
The Castelo de S. Jorge is a prominent feature of our city and has watched over and protected Lisbon since the 1st century BC. It was originally a Moorish military stronghold before being captured by King Afonso Henriques in 1147 during the Christian Reconquista.
The castle has served many purposes including a royal palace, a military barracks and a national monument. The castle was declared a national monument in 1910, ensuring its preservation.
Lisbon fun fact is that the structure we see is a replica built in the 1940s. It is still well worth a visit for the history, views and gardens.
Opening Hours
Winter Schedule (November 1 – February 28/29):
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission at 5:30 PM.
Summer Schedule (March 1 – October 31):
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last admission at 8:30 PM.
💶 Ticket Prices
Adults: €15.00
Youth (13–25 years): €7.50
Seniors (65+): €12.50
Persons with Specific Needs: €10.50
Free Admission: Children under 12, Lisboa Card holders, and Lisbon residents with proof of residency (one admission per day).
The Castelo de S. Jorge is a prominent feature of our city and has watched over and protected Lisbon since the 1st century BC. It was originally a Moorish military stronghold before being captured by King Afonso Henriques in 1147 during the Christian Reconquista.
The castle has served many purposes including a royal palace, a military barracks and a national monument. The castle was declared a national monument in 1910, ensuring its preservation.
Lisbon fun fact is that the structure we see is a replica built in the 1940s. It is still well worth a visit for the history, views and gardens.
Opening Hours
Winter Schedule (November 1 – February 28/29):
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission at 5:30 PM.
Summer Schedule (March 1 – October 31):
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last admission at 8:30 PM.
💶 Ticket Prices
Adults: €15.00
Youth (13–25 years): €7.50
Seniors (65+): €12.50
Persons with Specific Needs: €10.50
Free Admission: Children under 12, Lisboa Card holders, and Lisbon residents with proof of residency (one admission per day).
The Winding Streets Of Alfama
Alfama can trace its history back to the beginnings of Lisbon, in fact during Moorish times Alfama was considered to be the whole of Lisbon.
The area has seen many influences, none more so than the Moorish settlers. The name is a derivative of Arabic Al-hamma meaning “hot fountains” or “baths”.
Amazingly the 1755 Lisbon earthquake did not destroy the area and thus the area has kept its small winding streets and secret little squares.
We highly recommend how enjoyable it is to spend a few hours getting lost in the winding streets of Alfama soaking up the areas delightful history.
The area has seen many influences, none more so than the Moorish settlers. The name is a derivative of Arabic Al-hamma meaning “hot fountains” or “baths”.
Amazingly the 1755 Lisbon earthquake did not destroy the area and thus the area has kept its small winding streets and secret little squares.
We highly recommend how enjoyable it is to spend a few hours getting lost in the winding streets of Alfama soaking up the areas delightful history.
Casa São Miguel – Doçaria Regional Portuguesa
Casa São Miguel is a charming café in Alfama. Customers like me and choose from a delightful array of traditional Portuguese pastries.
They even produce their own nata a less-sweet, hearty-crusted pastel de nata.
Choose from a vast array of Portuguese cakes not just Lisbon specific. Many regions in Portugal have their own tasty cakes and sweets. The cakes are a perfect reflection of the country’s rich cultural and gastronomic traditions.
All served in a cozy, Art Nouveau-inspired setting adorned with antique porcelain and vintage décor.
It truly is a delicious way to enjoy the tastes of Portugal.
They even produce their own nata a less-sweet, hearty-crusted pastel de nata.
Choose from a vast array of Portuguese cakes not just Lisbon specific. Many regions in Portugal have their own tasty cakes and sweets. The cakes are a perfect reflection of the country’s rich cultural and gastronomic traditions.
All served in a cozy, Art Nouveau-inspired setting adorned with antique porcelain and vintage décor.
It truly is a delicious way to enjoy the tastes of Portugal.
Miradouro da Graça
Although not technically in the Alfama region we recommend visiting this viewpoint on your day trip in Alfama.
Easily reached by the famous Tram 28, Miradouro da Graça is a must stop for panoramic view of the castle, Alfama and central Lisbon. Grab a coffee at the open air cafe and mingle with tourists and local.
The name “Graça” translates in English to “grace,” and the church, originally built in the 14th century, adds a historic touch to the area.
Easily reached by the famous Tram 28, Miradouro da Graça is a must stop for panoramic view of the castle, Alfama and central Lisbon. Grab a coffee at the open air cafe and mingle with tourists and local.
The name “Graça” translates in English to “grace,” and the church, originally built in the 14th century, adds a historic touch to the area.
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Lisbon Weather
LISBOA WEATHERHow To Get To Lisbon
By Air ✈️
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
By Train 🚆
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
By Bus 🚌
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
When To Visit Lisbon?
What are the Best Months To Visit Lisbon?
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
One Day Lisbon Itinerary Ideas
1️⃣ Visit Rossio Railway Station – Admire its stunning neo-Manueline architecture.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 2 Days
Day One – Exploring Lisbon
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
Other Lisbon Travel Guides
16 Rooftop Bars Lisbon
Lisbon Fun Facts
Essential Travel Tips Lisbon
20 Things To Do In Lisbon
Best Day Trips From Lisbon
Things to do in Lisbon on a rainy day
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Things to Know Before You Go
The Weather Can Be Unpredictable During Winter & Spring
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Written by Clara R.
“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”
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Great blog post. Really looking forward to read more.