2 Days in Lisbon Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend

Two days in Lisbon are enough to explore the city’s main highlights, wander through historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Belém, eat dozens of pastéis de nata, and still have time to catch sunset from a miradouro over the Tagus River.

I lived in Lisbon in 2018, and I visit multiple times a year. A week would be ideal, but 48 hours gives you a solid taste of what makes this city special without feeling rushed.

This itinerary connects neighborhoods geographically, so you’re not zigzagging across the city.

Want to understand each area before you go? Check out my complete guide to Lisbon’s neighborhoods.

Day 1 focuses on central Lisbon (Baixa, Alfama, and Chiado), while Day 2 takes you west to Belém for monuments and pastries, with evenings in Bairro Alto for food and nightlife.

Planning on staying more days? Then check out my other Lisbon itineraries.

Planning on spending a different amount of days in Lisbon? I have multiple guide for you.

Is 2 Days in Lisbon Enough?

Two days in Lisbon is enough to see the main attractions, explore historic neighborhoods, try traditional food, and experience the city’s atmosphere.

You’ll have time to visit São Jorge Castle, wander Alfama’s narrow streets, see Belém’s monuments, and enjoy Portuguese cuisine.

The city is compact and walkable, so you can cover significant ground without rushing. However, you won’t have time for day trips to Sintra or Cascais, and you’ll need to choose between some attractions.

If you have more time, check out my 3-day Lisbon itinerary, which adds Sintra, or my guide on how many days you need in Lisbon.

Day 1: Historic Center, Alfama & Fado

Your first day covers Lisbon’s historic heart – the flat Baixa district and the hilly Alfama neighborhood. These areas are adjacent, so you’ll minimize travel time.

Morning: Rossio Square & Baixa (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)

Start at Rossio Square, Lisbon’s main square since medieval times. The wave-patterned cobblestones are iconic, though I’ll be honest – they’re slippery when wet and a nightmare in heels.

Grab breakfast at a nearby pastelaria. I like Confeitaria Nacional (since 1829) for their pastries and strong bica (espresso).

Walk down Rua Augusta, Baixa’s pedestrian shopping street, toward the river. This Pombaline architecture was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake with earthquake-resistant features – the world’s first.

Experience the Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) at the waterfront. The yellow buildings and triumphal arch are Instagram gold at this hour when the light hits just right.

Mid-Morning: São Jorge Castle (10:30 AM – 1:00 PM)

Head up to São Jorge Castle, perched on Alfama’s highest hill. You can take Tram 28 partway up, but honestly, it’s so packed with tourists by 10 AM that walking is faster and less frustrating.

The 15-minute uphill walk from Baixa follows Rua do Chão da Feira through residential Alfama. You’ll pass tile-covered buildings and neighbors hanging laundry from windows.

The castle entrance costs €15 and includes access to the archaeological site and the camera obscura. I’ve actually never been inside, only seen it from the outside, but I’ve heard the 360-degree views never get old. You’ll see the whole city, the bridge, and the river.

Spend 1.5-2 hours exploring the ramparts and towers. Go early before the tour groups arrive at 11:30 AM.

Tip: The peacocks roaming the grounds are surprisingly chill. They’re used to tourists, but don’t try to pet them.

Lunch: Traditional Portuguese in Alfama (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Head downhill into Alfama’s maze of streets for lunch. This is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, and you’ll find authentic tascas (taverns) serving proper Portuguese food.

I recommend Cantinho do Aziz for Mozambican-Portuguese fusion (around €12-15 per person) or Tasca do Chico for traditional petiscos (Portuguese tapas).

Skip the tourist restaurants on main streets – they’re overpriced and mediocre. Look for places where locals are eating, even if the menu is only in Portuguese. This is just a positive sign.

If you want something quicker, grab bifanas (pork sandwiches) at a local café. They’re €2-3 and delicious.

Afternoon: Alfama Walking Tour & Viewpoints (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

Spend the afternoon getting lost in Alfama’s labyrinth. Seriously, put your phone away and just wander.

The neighborhood’s steep streets and staircases connect random tiny squares where old ladies sit outside gossiping. This is the Lisbon tourists imagine but rarely find.

Visit the main miradouros (viewpoints) on your route: Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia are next to each other, with excellent views and tile panels. Miradouro da Graça is a 10-minute walk uphill and is less crowded.

Stop for a mid-afternoon bica at a local café. A great hidden spot is Cerca Moura, a tiny bar built into the old Moorish wall with outdoor seating and castle views.

Late Afternoon: Chiado Shopping & Culture (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

Walk west to Chiado, Lisbon’s elegant shopping district. It’s flatter here, thank goodness, and the late-afternoon light hits the neoclassical buildings beautifully.

Check out Livraria Bertrand (the world’s oldest bookstore in operation since 1732) and A Vida Portuguesa for traditional Portuguese products – sardines, soaps, and azulejo magnets that don’t suck.

Visit the Carmo Convent, the roofless Gothic church destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The €5 entrance fee includes a small archaeological museum.

The ruins are hauntingly beautiful and one of Lisbon’s most beautiful spots. The open sky where the ceiling should be gives you chills.

Santa Justa Lift is nearby if you want the viewpoint (€5.30 or free with Lisboa Card). But the line is usually 30+ minutes, and honestly, you’ve already seen better views from the castle.

Evening: Dinner & Fado in Bairro Alto (7:30 PM onwards)

Head to Bairro Alto for dinner. This bohemian neighborhood transforms from a sleepy residential area to party central after dark.

For traditional Portuguese food, I can recommend Tasca do Chico (€15-20 per person) or Adega das Mercês. Both have Fado performances some nights, check ahead.

If you want a dedicated Fado experience, book in advance at Tasca do Chico or Clube de Fado (€25-40, including dinner and show). The music starts around 9 PM.

Fado is a mournful Portuguese musical tradition centered on saudade (longing/nostalgia). You’ll either love it or find it depressing – there’s no middle ground.

After dinner, Bairro Alto’s narrow streets fill with people clutching Super Bock beers from corner shops. Bars are tiny and spill onto the streets; that’s where the real party happens.

Day 2: Belém, LX Factory & Western Lisbon

Day 2 heads west along the river to Belém, home to Portugal’s most important monuments. It’s a 20-minute tram ride (#15E) from central Lisbon, so you’ll have more travel time today.

Morning: Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Arrive in Belém by 9 AM; both main attractions are crowded with tour groups by 10:30 AM. Take the #15E tram from Cais do Sodré or Praça do Comércio.

Start with Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Entry is €18 (free first Sunday of each month).

The limestone facade and intricate stone carvings are insane, built with spice trade wealth in the 1500s. Vasco da Gama is buried here.

Spend 45-60 minutes inside. The cloisters are the highlight – two levels of ornate arches that look different depending on the light.

I made the mistake of arriving at 11 AM in August. The line wrapped around the building, and we waited 90 minutes in the sun.

Book online in advance or arrive at 9 AM when doors open. Trust me on this.

Walk 10 minutes along the waterfront to Belém Tower, the 16th-century fortress that defended Lisbon’s harbor. Entry is €15.

The tower is smaller than you’d expect from the photos, and inside is just stone rooms and narrow stairs. But the exterior is beautiful, especially the carved limestone balconies.

The views from the top are solid, though you’ll climb 96 steps on a spiral staircase. Not great if you’re claustrophobic.

Late Morning: Pastéis de Belém (12:00 PM – 12:45 PM)

Walk to Pastéis de Belém, the original bakery that has made Portugal’s famous custard tarts since 1837 using a secret recipe.

Yes, there’s always a line. Yes, it’s touristy. But honestly? These are the second-best pastéis de nata in Lisbon. The best ones are from Manteigaria.

The line moves quickly, usually in 10-15 minutes, even when it appears busy. They make 20,000+ tarts daily, so they’ve got the system down.

Get a table in the beautiful tiled rooms rather than a takeaway. Order 2-3 tarts per person (€1.30 each) with a bica.

Sprinkle them with cinnamon and powdered sugar. Eat them warm. The crispy pastry and creamy custard are unmatched.

Everyone debates Pastéis de Belém vs Manteigaria (a modern shop in Chiado). I’ve tried both dozens of times. Manteigaria is excellent and better; it has more vanilla flavour, but Belém’s is the original.

Afternoon: Monument to the Discoveries & LX Factory (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

Walk to the Monument to the Discoveries, an angular limestone monument jutting into the river, featuring statues of explorers. Entry to the top is €10 for panoramic views.

I’ll be honest, I usually skip going inside. The exterior is the main attraction, and you’ve already done viewpoints.

If you have extra time and interest, the Berardo Museum nearby has an excellent modern art collection and is free.

Take an Uber or bus #728 to LX Factory, a creative complex in a former industrial site under the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s 10 minutes from Belém.

LX Factory is Instagram central – colorful murals, hipster cafes, design shops, and bookstores. Ler Devagar bookstore has floor-to-ceiling shelves and a flying bicycle sculpture.

Grab an afternoon coffee at Landeau Chocolate (they also have incredible chocolate cake) or browse the Sunday market if you’re here on the weekend.

It’s touristy but still fun. I’ve been here a couple of times with my girlfriend to eat and browse the small shops in the old factory buildings.

Late Afternoon: Time Out Market or Cais do Sodré (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

Head back toward central Lisbon and stop at Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré. This food hall features stalls from Lisbon’s top chefs and restaurants.

It’s touristy and pricier than eating elsewhere (€10-18 per dish), but the quality is legitimately good, and it’s convenient when you’re tired.

I still come here frequently to get the Francesinha or the upscale bifana. Grab a table in the center; they’re shared seating.

If you prefer a local vibe, skip Time Out and explore Cais do Sodré’s side streets for traditional restaurants. Travessa de Santo Antão is nearby.

Evening: Pink Street & Sunset (7:00 PM onwards)

Walk to Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho), Lisbon’s most Instagrammed street with bubblegum pink pavement. It’s literally one block long.

Get your photo at golden hour when the light is perfect. Then keep walking, the street itself is just bars and clubs that don’t get going until after midnight.

For sunset drinks, head to a rooftop bar. Park Bar has the best sunset views over the river and castle (€7-12 cocktails). It’s literally a parking garage rooftop with AstroTurf; it sounds unusual, but it works perfectly.

Other solid options: TOPO Chiado for terrace drinks or Lost In for garden vibes in Príncipe Real.

For dinner, return to Bairro Alto for restaurants in another neighborhood, or try Príncipe Real for slightly upscale dining (Cervejaria Ramiro for seafood or 100 Maneiras for contemporary Portuguese cuisine).

End the night wherever feels right, bar hopping in Bairro Alto, live music in Cais do Sodré, or clubbing at Lux Frágil if you have energy.

Alternative: Swap Day 2 for Sintra

If you’re more interested in palaces and nature than Lisbon monuments, swap Day 2 for a day trip to Sintra.

Sintra is 40 minutes by train from Lisbon and features fairy-tale palaces such as Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. It’s Portugal’s most visited attraction outside Lisbon.

I’ll give you the controversial take, though: if you only have 2 days total, I’d stick with the Belém itinerary.

Sintra requires a full day to do properly. You’ll spend 2+ hours on trains, fight crowds at the palaces, and barely scratch the surface.

You’ll also miss seeing Lisbon’s western neighborhoods, which are worth experiencing if this is your only visit.

Save Sintra for when you have 3+ days in Lisbon and can dedicate a proper day to it. Or visit Sintra independently on another Portugal trip.

If you’re determined to go, check my complete Sintra guide with logistics and palace recommendations.

Where to Stay for 2 Days in Lisbon

Your accommodation location matters when you only have 48 hours. Pick a central neighborhood to minimize commute time.

Best neighborhoods for 2 days:

Baixa is the most convenient: flat streets, metro access, and walking distance to everything. It’s touristy but practical for short visits.

Chiado is my top pick if you want central but slightly more local. Great restaurants, beautiful streets, easy access to both days’ itineraries.

Alfama is atmospheric and charming, but steep. Be prepared to walk uphill to your accommodation after dinner.

Cais do Sodré is ideal for nightlife lovers, with bars and restaurants and easy tram access to Belém.

Avoid staying in Parque das Nações or far-flung neighborhoods when you only have 2 days. You’ll waste too much time commuting.

Check my full guide on where to stay in Lisbon for specific hotel recommendations by neighborhood.

Getting Around During Your 2 Days

Lisbon is compact, and you’ll walk 90% of this itinerary. Wear comfortable shoes – the cobblestones and hills are no joke.

For longer distances, use Lisbon’s metro, trams, and buses. Get a Navegante card (€0.50) and load it with 24-hour passes (€6.80) or zapping (pay-as-you-go, €1.50 per ride).

Tram 15E to Belém is essential for Day 2. It runs frequently along the waterfront.

Uber works great in Lisbon and is affordable (€5-8 for most central trips). Use it when you’re tired or running late.

Skip the Lisboa Card for just 2 days unless you’re hitting every museum. The math rarely works out for short visits.

The Lisboa Card costs €27 for 48 hours and includes public transport plus free entry to some attractions. However, you’re only visiting 3-4 paid attractions in total (castle, monastery, tower), each costing around €30.

Budget Breakdown: 2 Days in Lisbon

Here’s what to expect cost-wise per person for 2 days:

Accommodation: €60-120 per night (€120-240 total for 2 nights)

• Budget hostel: €25-40
• Mid-range hotel: €70-100
• Boutique hotel: €120-200+

Food: €40-70 per day (€80-140 total)

• Breakfast: €5-10
• Lunch: €10-15
• Dinner: €20-35
• Coffee/snacks: €5-10

Attractions: €30-40 total

• São Jorge Castle: €15
• Jerónimos Monastery: €10
• Belém Tower: €8
• Carmo Convent: €5
• Other viewpoints/churches: Free

Transportation: €10-15 total

• 48-hour transport pass: €14
• Or pay-per-ride: €1.50 each
• Uber backup: €10-15

Drinks/Nightlife: €20-40

• Rooftop bar drinks: €7-12 each
• Bairro Alto beer: €1.50-3
• Fado show: €25-40 (optional)

Total for 2 days: €260-475 per person

This assumes mid-range choices. Budget travelers can do it for €200-250 by staying in hostels, eating more cheaply, and skipping fancy drinks.

Check my full Lisbon budget guide for more money-saving tips.

What to Skip in 2 Days

You don’t have time for everything, so here’s what I’d cut when you’re rushed:

Santa Justa Lift – The 30+ minute line isn’t worth it for views you’ve already seen from the castle and miradouros. Skip it.

Oceanarium – It’s in Parque das Nações, 30 minutes from central Lisbon. Great if you have kids and more time, but not essential for a 2-day visit.

Multiple museums – Pick one max. The Gulbenkian is excellent, but when you’re time-crunched, wandering neighborhoods beats museum time.

Tram 28 during peak hours: It’s a tourist trap from 10 AM to 5 PM. You’ll see the same neighborhoods as you walk.

Restaurant reservations for lunch – Save table planning for dinner. Lunch is casual in Lisbon, and you’ll find places as you explore.

Rossio train station – Photographers love it, but it’s just a train station. Admire the exterior on Day 1, then continue moving.

Quick Tips for 2 Days in Lisbon

Bring sunscreen: Even in winter, the sun reflects off the white buildings and water. I’ve gotten burned in February.

Watch for pickpockets: They work the Tram 28, tourist attractions, and crowded viewpoints. Keep valuables secure, especially phones and wallets.

Book Fado ahead: Popular spots fill up, especially Friday-Saturday. Reserve 1-2 days in advance.

Start early: Lisbon’s main attractions are mobbed by 11 AM, especially May-September. Get places at 9-10 AM.

Download offline maps: Cell service is fine, but having offline maps saves data and works in the metro.

Learn basic Portuguese: “Obrigado” (thanks), “por favor” (please), and “desculpe” (excuse me) go a long way. Locals appreciate the effort.

Bring layers: Mornings are cool, afternoons are warm. Carry a light jacket even in summer for air-conditioned museums.

Cash for small purchases: Most places accept cards, but small cafés and taquerias sometimes don’t. Carry €20-30 cash every day.

Check my Lisbon travel tips for more practical advice.

Mistakes I Made So You Don’t Have To

On my first visit to Lisbon, I took a taxi from the airport to my Airbnb in Alfama, and it was a nightmare. He couldn’t find it and refused to use GPS. I strongly recommend hiring a driver or using Uber.

The first time I visited Sintra, we walked from the train station to Pena Palace. It was a nightmare and extremely exhausting. Just take the bus from the train station.

I learned the hard way that restaurants in Bairro Alto don’t open until 7:30 PM. Don’t show up at 6 PM expecting dinner.

I’ve stood in the 90-minute line at Jerónimos Monastery at 11 AM in summer. Book online or go at opening – there’s no third option.

I wore sandals once to explore Alfama. The cobblestones destroyed my feet in two hours. Sneakers or broken-in walking shoes only.

When to Visit Lisbon for 2 Days

The best time for a 2-day visit is April-May or September-October. The weather is perfect (18-25°C), crowds are manageable, and flights/hotels are reasonable.

Summer (June-August) is hot (30°C+) and packed with tourists. Expect lines everywhere and higher prices.

Winter (December-February) is mild (10-15°C) but rainy. You’ll have attractions to yourself, but bring an umbrella and have indoor backup plans.

I personally love Lisbon in May – warm but not hot, the jacaranda trees are blooming, and the city feels alive without being overrun.

Check my guide to when to visit Lisbon for month-by-month breakdowns.

Making the Most of Your 48 Hours

The key to a great 2-day visit is accepting that you can’t see everything. This isn’t a checklist competition.

You’re better off spending 3 hours wandering Alfama’s streets getting lost than rushing through 8 attractions.

My best moments in Lisbon have been unplanned: a random Fado singer in a small tasca, finding a secret viewpoint with no tourists, watching the sunset from a neighborhood park.

Give yourself permission to skip something if you’re tired or find something more interesting. The itinerary is a framework, not a prison.

And honestly? If you fall in love with Lisbon in 2 days (you will), you’ll come back. I did, and I continue to do so.

If you’re planning to stay longer, check out my other itineraries.

FAQ: 2 Days in Lisbon