48 Hours in Lisbon, Itinerary

Lisbon is Portugal’s coastal capital city and one of the first stops on most people’s Portugal itinerary. We spent an unforgettable 48 hours in Lisbon, packing in as much as possible. In this post, we will take you through its best neighborhoods and top attractions, giving insider tips on where to stay and what to eat to help you plan your trip when you visit Lisbon. If you have two days in the city, follow this 48 hours in Lisbon itinerary to see the top attractions and to enjoy some of its culture, food, and architecture.

Two Days in Lisbon Itinerary

When visiting Lisbon, make sure to book a hotel with breakfast included. Usually, breakfasts at European hotels are amazing, with pastries, eggs, gourmet coffee, and tea. We stayed at the Turim Boulevard Hotel located in the heart of Lisbon on Avenida da Liberdada. You can read our full article about where to stay in Lisbon here.

We found a great deal on Booking.com to stay at this 5-star hotel that was within walking distance to the Old Town and many of Lisbon’s top attractions. Check rates and availability here.

To get around Lisbon, we used Uber. The app was affordable and easy to use. We highly recommend downloading Uber before traveling to Portugal.

A Lisbon Card allows you to enter many of Lisbon’s top attractions and skip the line. See details here. If you want to see a lot quickly, this is a great option to purchase ahead of time. The LIsbon Card also includes public transport. Order it here. So, are you ready to explore one of Europe’s most exciting cities in two days? Let’s dive in!

Day 1 – The Top Attractions

After breakfast, we called an Uber to take us to the Belém neighborhood, where we would begin our Lisbon itinerary at two of the city’s top tourist attractions.

The Belém neighborhood is located along the Tagus River, just a short tram or Uber ride from Lisbon’s city center. Belém is the birthplace of the Age of Discoveries and houses some of Lisbon’s most iconic attractions.

Belém Tower

Belem Tower is one of the few monuments to survive the 1755 earthquake, and it is not to be missed when visiting Lisbon. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located directly on the Tagus River, it is a great way to begin your Lisbon adventure. 

We didn’t go inside Belém Tower but admired it from the outside. The cost to enter Belém Tower is 6 Euro, and opening hours are from 10 am to 6:30 pm from May to September, with an earlier closing of 5:30 from Oct to April. You can reserve your timed entry in advance here. It is also included in the Lisbon Card.

An Uber from the old city cost us 8€ and took about 20 minutes.

Since it opens so late, arriving at 10 a.m. really cuts into the Lisbon Itinerary. However, the next time we visit Lisbon, we are going to go inside. Whenever we only have a short time in a city, we often just go to see the outside of historic buildings. If you have more time like a week or more days in Lisbon, you can then go into all the museums and attractions that you like.

But we are going to move you through quickly on this two —or three-day Lisbon guide to make the most of your stay. We suggest going before the crowds to see this wonder before it opens. You can then continue down the Tagus River to see more attractions.

Jerónimos Monastery

Just a short walk from Belém Tower is Jerónimos Monastery, It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site that you must not miss.

Jerónimos monastery was built in the 16th century to commemorate Vasco de Gama’s voyage to India; he was the first European to reach India by sea. 

The monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, showcasing elaborate carvings that pay homage to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Visitors can expect to be mesmerized by the monastery’s stunning cloisters, each intricately designed with columns richly adorned with maritime motifs and symbols of exploration.

The church of Santa Maria, housing the tomb of Vasco da Gama, provides a poignant connection to Portugal’s navigational achievements. Open to the public, the Jerónimos Monastery invites tourists to step back in time and marvel at its breathtaking beauty, expansive dimensions, and historical significance. With its close proximity to other notable attractions such

Tickets cost 12 euros, and you can purchase them online in advance. They are also included in the Lisbon Card.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos – Monument of Discoveries

It is only fitting that the Monument of Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) is located nearby. Vasco Da Gama was just one of many legendary explorers from Portugal, and this impressive monument, built on the Tagus River in the 20th century, celebrates those great explorers with Prince Henry the Navigator at the front.

This monument celebrates the Portuguese explorers who charted unknown territories worldwide. You can go up to the top to take in the views of the Tagus River and the Belem neighborhood. Standing at 52 meters high, it offers some of the best views in the city.

The fee is 10€, and it is open from 10 am to 7 pm during the summer months.

Pasteis de Bélem for the Original Pastel de Nata

Also located in the Belem Neighborhood is the birthplace of Portugal’s iconic Pastel de Nata. Pastéis de Belém has been serving its secret recipe since 1837 and offers the original version of the creamy custard tart that has become a symbol of Portuguese culinary tradition. Pastel de Nata is a treat that you will eat throughout Portugal.

The Pastel de Nata at Pasteis de Belem is the original recipe and I will admit that it was better than other places that we sampled Pastel de Nata. So you will just have to go for yourself to see if its worth it.

The history of Pastel de Natadates back to the early 19th century when monks crafted them. When the monastery closed, the recipe was passed to the bakery, ensuring the legacy of this delicious treat.

This is an excellent place to grab a coffee and snacks before moving on as they do serve other foods besides pastel de nata. The best advice we got was to go inside to sit down. The line may seem long, but the restaurant is huge, and the turnover is fast. We only stood in line for about five minutes before we were seated.

Tagus River Attractions

Walking along the Tagus River is a Lisbon attraction unto itself. As we continued along the waterfront, we enjoyed the sites of the Belém neighborhood. Along the waterfront, you will come across monuments and statues, and there are a few museums worth stopping at.

The Museum of Contemporary Art is located near Jeronimós Monastery if you want to pop into that, and the National Coach Museum is located along your walk back towards downtown.

We continued to walk along the waterfront, enjoying the views of the Tagus River, including The Sanctuary of Christ the King – a monument that reminded us of Christ the Redeemer in Rio De Janeiro. There are plenty of things to see, and you can rent bikes or scooters to get around as well.

Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

Whatever you do, don’t miss the impressive Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT). Conveniently located on the banks of the Tagus River and still in the Belém district, MAAT stands as a beacon of contemporary culture and innovation.

Inside, visitors are treated to a dynamic array of exhibitions that bridge the gap between art and technology, showcasing works that provoke thought and inspire innovation. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a technology enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Lisbon’s cutting-edge cultural scene.

It is open from Wednesday to Monday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., making it a perfect addition to your Lisbon adventure. With the Lisbon card you get a 10% discount.

LX Factory

We walked all the way to the LX Factory, one of the coolest neighborhoods in Lisbon. It is a complex of old industrial buildings located under the April 25th Bridge that has been turned into an artisan community. 

There are restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and multimedia displays. This is a great spot to grab a snack and an aperitif and simply people-watch. Even the locals like to hang out at LX Factory, so you will feel like you are really immersing yourself in the local culture.

Avenida da Liberdade

After catching an Uber back downtown, we relaxed at our hotel located on the Champs Élysées of Lisbon, the c As we mentioned, this is the area that we stayed in, and we loved how close it was to downtown. Still, it was also quiet and chic away from the hustle and bustle.

This beautiful treelined street was inspired by the boulevards of Paris with a shaded walkway through beautiful architecture. Make sure to take a walk along the street to see the monumental statues that stand center of its roundabouts, stop in for an aperol spritz or coffee at one of its many cafes and enjoy the pleasant boutiques and shopping.

For high-end shopping, this is the place to go. It is one of the most expensive streets in Portugal and we got an amazing deal on booking.com at the Turim Boulevard Hotel.

Rooftop Bar for Sunset

Our hotel had a rooftop bar where we enjoyed the sunset. Watching the sunset from a rooftop or one of Lisbon’s Miradouros is essential. This city is beautiful. With its seven hills surrounding the historic town, it is one of the most beautiful scenes in Europe.

Right next door to the Turim Boulevard Hotel is the Tivoli Avenida Hotel Next door. Their Skybar is legendary and is an excellent place for a sunset cocktail. We stayed at the Tivoli Carvoeiro in the Algarve and loved the Skybar there as well. We suggest getting there early, though, as this patio fills up quickly.

The area of Avenida da Liberdade is a great place to grab dinner and enjoy the rooftop bars with gorgeous views. 

Fado Show

One of the must-do experiences in Lisbon is to watch a Fado Show. UNESCO recognizes it as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and you can also visit the Fado Museum in Alfama. 

You can book an evening walking tour that includes an Alfama Show with traditional dinner. This highly rated tour combines the best of Lisbon food tours, a walking tour of the Alfama district to learn of Portuguese history and a traditional Fado show. When we go back, we are definitely booking this.

Fado is the soulful, haunting music genre that captures the essence of Portuguese culture and emotion. Originating in the 1820s in Lisbon, it is recognized for its deeply melancholic melodies and lyrics that often explore themes of love, loss, and longing, reflecting the Portuguese concept of “Saudade” — a profound sense of nostalgia and yearning.

Even if we couldn’t understand what they were saying, we felt the emotion seep through their voices.

Places to see Fado in Alfama

Clube de Fado is one of Lisbon’s most esteemed venues for Fado. It attracts some of Portugal’s finest Fado singers and classical guitarists (playing the Portuguese guitarra), pouring their hearts into every performance.

We made the mistake of booking a Fado show online with GetYour Guide. While it was just a short walk from our hotel to the venue, we really should have gone to the Alfama district to experience this genre of music in the city’s oldest district. However, the musicians and singers were talented and it was a beautiful performance, I just wish we went to a more local experience.

Day 2 – Miradorous and Lisbon Neighborhoods

Day two in Lisbon takes you all around the Old City to see its vibrant neighborhoods and top attractions of the Old City. After breakfast, we walked down to the Old Town to begin at the Alfama District. Navigating through its narrow cobblestone streets truly takes you back in time. This is a beautiful neighborhood full of character, shopping, cafes and great food.

Alfama District

The Alfama district is Lisbon’s oldest and most culturally and authentic neighborhood. It is the perfect place to start day 2 of your 48-hour stay. 

The Alfama district is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys that echo with the soulful sounds of Fado music. This historic neighborhood is a place to spend the morning exploring its treasure trove of cultural landmarks and breathtaking viewpoints.

Lisbon Cathedral

Key attractions include the majestic Castelo de Sao Jorge, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of the city, and the impressive Lisbon Cathedral.

Strolling through Alfama, visitors will encounter charming plazas, vibrant markets, and hidden courtyards, each telling a story of Lisbon’s past.

Museo do Fado

If you want to learn more about Fado, visit the Museu do Fado. Portugal’s most iconic musical expression is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Located in the historic Alfama district, just a stone’s throw from the Lisbon Cathedral, this museum is dedicated to celebrating the history and culture of Fado, from its origins in the 19th century to the present day.

The Museu do Fado provides an immersive experience with its extensive collection of Fado recordings, memorabilia, and personal items from legendary Fado singers. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, listen to classic and contemporary Fado performances, and even try to play a Portuguese guitar.

National Pantheon

ocated in the historic Alfama district, The National Pantheon was originally a church and now serves as the final resting place for some of Portugal’s most esteemed personalities, including Presidents, Fado singers, and explorers.

Its striking white dome and impressive baroque architecture make it a landmark visible from various points across the city. Visitors can explore the interior’s ornate design, marvel at the beautiful azulejos (Portuguese tiles), and climb to the terrace for panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. It was closed when we visited, but we are going back to Lisbon soon and plan on going in to see it.

Alfama a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Lisbon. Whether you’re a history buff, a music enthusiast, or simply in search of picturesque scenes, Alfama offers an unforgettable exploration of Lisbon’s heart and soul.

Tram 28

Historic Tram 28 is a vintage yellow tram that weaves through the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, offering a unique vantage point to explore its historical and cultural landmarks.

Starting from Martim Moniz and culminating in Campo de Ourique, this journey takes passengers through a maze of narrow streets in Alfama, past the majestic Castelo de São Jorge, through the vibrant Baixa district, and by the charming neighborhoods of Graça and Estrela.

As one of Lisbon’s most sought-after attractions, Tram 28 provides takes you on a journey back in time, allowing travelers to experience the authentic charm of Lisbon’s old-world architecture and bustling urban life.

Its route covers significant sites, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to navigate the city for first-time visitors. For those looking to capture the essence of Lisbon, a ride on Tram 28 is a must-do activity that combines scenic views, historical exploration, and the pleasure of slow travel, all wrapped into one memorable experience.

Tram 28 costs 3 Euros and goes through some of Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods. A 24-hour pass is available, and it is free with the Lisbon Card. However, whenever we went by a stop, there was always a crowd. 

Castelo de São Jorge – Castelo St George

You can easily spend half a day here in the Alfama District. Start by making your way to the top and explore Castelo de São Jorge. You can see this castle walls from all around the city as it sits at the top of the district.

The old fortifications date back to the 2nd century BC but it underwent extensive renovations.  You can walk along its old castle walls and take in views of Lisbon. Make sure to get there early or book your tickets in advance as it gets crowded. Entrance to the castle is also included in a Lisbon Card

Belvedere Lookout

If you don’t want to tour the Castle, there is a Miradorou right beside Castelo St. George that we went to instead. It costs €5 to go up the stairs to the bell tower, but there is a glass of wine included. It has a nice little souvenir shop and the views are fantastic.

After the Alfama neighborhood, we continued to walk down through the stairs leading to the waterfront. It’s a cool walk through graffiti and winding alleyways, so take your time. This is the morning to soak in the Lisbon atmosphere.

Miradouro de Santa Catarina – Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Miradouro de Santa Catarina, often called ” Miradouro das Portas do Sol” by locals, is one of the top stops in the neighborhood, with breathtaking views of the Tagus River and the city’s picturesque rooftops.

This scenic viewpoint, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Santa Catarina, becomes a magical spot as the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. It’s a favorite among both locals and tourists for its relaxed atmosphere, complemented by the gentle strumming of guitars and the soft hum of conversation.

The panoramic views from Miradouro das Portas do Sol provide a perfect backdrop for memorable photos, capturing the essence of Lisbon’s beauty.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Right next door to Portas do Sol is Miradouro de Santa Luzia. The terraced gardens, adorned with ornamental plants and classical statues, provide a tranquil retreat from the bustling city streets, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely morning. It is also a popular spot for sunset.

Visitors can enjoy refreshments from the on-site kiosks while soaking in the breathtaking landscape. Its central location, easily accessible by Lisbon’s public transport, including the iconic Glória Funicular, makes Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara a must-visit for tourists seeking to capture the essence of Lisbon’s charm. Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Porto do Sol are within walking distance of each other.

Tuk Tuk Tour

You can hop on another historic tram to tour the city or hire a Tuk Tuk as we did. A tuk-tuk tour can be booked ahead of time, but we caught one at Porto do Sol for 40€ each. The 90-minute tour took us to many of Lisbon’s top attractions, and we found it worth the money to tick off the remaining viewpoints and churches to see in Lisbon.

Lisbon is surrounded by steep hills. At the top of said steep hills are the Miradorours of Lisbon which offers breathtaking views of the entire city. By booking a tuk tuk we could see all the Miradorous in just a few hours. We bargained for a private tour, but if you don’t want the hassle, you can book a private tuk tuk tour ahead of time.

It is actually a great way to see many of the top attractions in a short amount of time. If you only have 48 Hours in Lisbon, we highly recommend hiring a tuk-tuk. 

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

One of the best views in Lisbon is the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Our tuk-tuk tour included this, and it was worth going up for a view over the city.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is perched atop Lisbon’s highest hill in the Graça district and offers unrivaled panoramic.

As the highest of Lisbon’s many viewpoints, it provides a serene and picturesque setting where visitors can gaze over iconic landmarks such as São Jorge Castle, the Tagus River, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Lisbon is known as the city of seven bridges so taking a tuk tuk tour helped us get to the top of said bridges quickly. The adjacent chapel and the romantic atmosphere make it a favored spot for locals and tourists alike.

This quiet oasis in the bustling city is accessible day or night, offering a different but equally stunning experience with each visit—sunsets here are particularly mesmerizing, casting a golden hue over the cityscape.

São Pedro de Alcântara

Our tuk tuk driver also took us to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. This is a beautiful panoramic terrace offering some of the most stunning views of the city, including the Lisbon Cathedral. and Castelo de São Jorge.

Located in the trendy Bairro Alto district, this miradouro is a favorite for its breathtaking vistas that span from the São Jorge Castle across the old town to the Tagus River.

Lush gardens, ornate fountains, and detailed tile work add to the charm of this scenic spot, making it an ideal location for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation amidst your Lisbon explorations.

There is a cafe with toilets and the viewpoint is also dotted with kiosks serving refreshments, allowing visitors to enjoy a drink as they take in the spectacular scenery. With its easy access from the city center and proximity to Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is a must-visit for anyone wanting to capture the essence of Lisbon’s beauty, offering a perfect blend of natural landscape, urban panorama, and historical ambiance.

Comercio Square

We had our tuk tuk driver let us off here at Comericio Square so we were free to explore the area around the Tagus River.

Commerce Square is Lisbon’s grand square located on the River Tagus. It is as massive as it is beautiful, with its distinctive U-shaped arrangement of yellow 19th-century buildings standing at the former Royal Palace of Ribeira. There is a lot happening at this square, and you can’t miss going to see it. 

This square was destroyed during the earthquake of 1755 which dramatically changed the landscape of Lisbon’s history. If you are interested in more history about this Portuguese capital, this top rated history tour takes you on a journey through Lisbon eighborhoods on a guided walking tour where you’ll discover cover Chiado and Bairro Alto, admire the views from Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara, and more.

Pink Street

Pink Street, officially known as Rua Nova do Carvalho is located in the heart oof the Cais do Sodré district. Once a gritty area, Pink Street has transformed into a bustling hub for nightlife.

During the day, it attracts photographers with their smart phones to take social media photos of its pink-painted road covered with colorful umbrellas.

Open from dusk to dawn, this trendy hotspot offers an eclectic mix of musical genres and atmospheres, catering to all tastes. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a cocktail in a stylish bar, or simply soak in the electric atmosphere.

Time Out Market

Time Out Market is a must visit on any Lisbon itinerary. Located in the former Mercado da Ribeira at Cais do Sodré, this bustling food hall brings together a curated selection of Lisbon’s best restaurants, chefs, and food producers under one roof. But take note, it is extremely busy. However, it’s an affordable option for lunch.

Open daily, it offers visitors a chance to indulge in various gastronomic delights, from traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisine, all freshly prepared in an open kitchen environment.

Whether you’re craving seafood, gourmet burgers, or authentic pastéis de nata, the Time Out Market provides an unparalleled dining experience that showcases the richness of Lisbon’s culinary scene. Its central location, near major attractions and easily accessible by public transport, makes it a convenient stop for tourists.

Rua Agusta

We then spent the afternoon checking out the sites along Rua Augusta, a long pedestrian street in the heart of Lisbon’s bustling Baixa district. This street can get very busy but it is a fun place to hang out for a bit in this amazing city.

There are outdoor cafes, street performers, boutique shopping and plenty of hotels. As you walk along the street, the Rua Augusta Arch will beckon as it stands proud over the collostone street.

The street’s pedestrian-friendly layout encourages leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and architectural beauty that define Lisbon. For those looking to immerse themselves in Lisbon’s dynamic city life while enjoying easy access to its historic sights, Rua Augusta is an unmissable destination.

Arco da Rua Augusta – Rua Agusta Arch

Framed by the majestic Arco da Rua Augusta (Rua Agusta Arch) at one end and the sprawling Praça do Comércio at the other, this street is a bustling hive of activity, offering an array of shops, cafes, and street performers that entertain visitors at every turn.

The triumphal arch itself, offering panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River from its rooftop, is a must-visit attraction. It provides a unique vantage point from which to appreciate Lisbon’s historic charm.

Elevador de Santa Justa – Santa Justa Lift

Throughout this neighborhood, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions, such as the Elevador de Santa Justa or Santa Justa Lift. The Santa Justa Lift is open to the public to go up and take in the views from the platform (the platform was closed during our visit), and it acts as public transport to take you up to the Largo do Carmo area.

Lisbon Food Tour

This is a great time to book a food tour to taste traditional Portuguese food. To really delve into the food scene when visiting Lisbon, this traditional food tour with wine tasting is a great way to take a walking tour of downtown Lisbon while enjoying its cuisine. You’ll immerse in the rich history of Lisbon and traditional Portuguese cuisine while walking through its streets, and enjoying monuments in the company of an experienced guide.

You will visit Praça dos Restauradores, Rossio and Comércio, Bairro Alto, and Chiado neighborhoods. Admire the architecture and cultural diversity while tasting the famous Portuguese wines.

Bairro Alto District

We ended our two days in Lisbon in the Bairro Alto District to enjoy dinner and drinks in this lively area where the streets come alive with live music, bars, and restaurants once the sun goes down. 

Bairro Alto is the pulsating heart of Lisbon’s nightlife. This historic neighborhood turns into a lively hotspot when the sun goes down, where narrow cobbled streets come alive with the sounds of Fado music emanating from quaint bars and intimate restaurants.

This area is a haven for nightlife seekers, offering a diverse array of entertainment options, from chic rooftop bars with stunning views over Lisbon to cozy taverns where locals and tourists alike mingle over glasses of vinho verde and plates of petiscos (Portuguese tapas).

The district’s bohemian atmosphere is unmatched, making it the perfect place to experience Lisbon’s legendary night scene. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away in one of its many nightclubs or simply enjoy a leisurely evening stroll amidst the vibrant street art and historical architecture, Bairro Alto promises an unforgettable night out, showcasing the very best of Lisbon’s dynamic and inclusive culture.

We went for gin and tonic cockails at Gin Lovers cocktail bar in the Portuguese Concept stores, we then at dinner on the terrace with beautiful views of the old city. This is a great neighborhood to end your Lisbon Itinerary.

Day 3 – Bonus Day Trip to Sintra

If you have a third day in Lisbon, most people go to Sintra, which is just a short day trip from Lisbon. We spent two nights in Sintra, but it can be done on a day tour to see its top attractions. When you visit Lisbon, Sintra is one of the most popular destinations in Portugal, and if you only have a short time in the country, you really shouldn’t miss visiting this magical destination. Read all about it 14 Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal

Sintra

So why does Sintra include a full day on your Lisbon Itinerary? Well, Sintra is just 30 minutes from Lisbon. It is a convenient yet epic day trip for anyone wanting a magical day tour from Lisbon. You can enjoy the novelty of palaces and romantic architecture in just one day, and it is easy to get to from central Lisbon. So let’s look at how to spend a day in Sintra.

We rented a car during our Lisbon trip, Check rental car prices here which gave us the freedom to explore many of the top day tours in Lisbon. But you can get to Sintra by train or on a guided tour. If you only have one day in Sintra, we suggest booking a guided tour to maximize your day trip.

You can also book this popular day tour to Sintra from Lisbon. You’ll also visit Pena Palace, Regaleira, and Cascais. 

Start with Pena Palace

One of the most popular attractions in Sintra, the Pena Palace is a stunning 19th-century Romantic palace that sits atop a hill overlooking the town. The lavish palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and stands proudly over the landscape. We loved the vibrant colors and mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish.

However, Pena Palace is one of the most popular attractions in Portugal, so getting their early is imperative. You can book timed entrances but you can also simply marvel at the outdoor landscape and palace. We found the timed entrance to be crowded. I would have preferred to visit Pena Palace at sunrise and then explore more of Sintra’s top attractions afterward.

Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira was our favourite place to visit in Sintra. We booked an entry ticket ahead of time and then ran directly to the initiation well once the doors opened. The Initiation Well is the most fascinating attraction on the grounds and is not to be missed.

It was built in the early 20th century by a wealthy Brazilian businessman named António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro. Monteiro was a collector of art and rare objects, and he used the Quinta da Regaleira as a showcase for his collection. Book your skip the line entry tickets here.

Moorish Castle

Located near Pena Palace is The Moorish Castle. This a well-preserved medieval castle that dates back to the 9th century and was used by the Portuguese royal family as a summer palace. The Moorish Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sintra, known for its well-preserved walls and stunning views.

How to Get Around Lisbon

Navigating Lisbon is a breeze with its comprehensive and user-friendly transportation options and instructions in English if you don’t speak Portuguese, ensuring visitors can explore every corner of Portugal’s captivating capital.

The Lisbon Metro Station has an extensive network of lines, offering a fast and affordable way to traverse the city, connecting major tourist attractions, shopping districts, and residential areas. We suggest getting a Vivaviagem card at a metro station and then you can top it up. This card can be used on buses, trams, ferries and subways.

We used Uber to get around and found it to be fast and reliable.

Traditional taxis are also readily available, offering reliable service at taxi stands or on the street, perfect for those looking for a classic Lisbon experience.

Tuk Tuk tours have become increasingly popular, offering guided explorations that combine the thrill of open-air travel with the insights of knowledgeable local guides.

How to Get to Lisbon

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport is a major hub for European and intercontinental flights and provides a direct and efficient gateway to the city.

The Lisbon airport is well-connected to the city center through various transport options, including the Lisbon Metro’s Red Line, which offers a quick and cost-effective route to downtown.

For those exploring Europe, taking a train to Lisbon is a scenic and and affordable journey. The Santa Apolónia and Oriente stations serving as the city’s main rail terminals, linking Lisbon to major Portuguese cities and other European capitals.

Gare do Oriente station is the main train station in scenic Lisbon and one of the most spectacular train stations in Portugal and in Europe.

Whether you’re flying into the heart of Lisbon, enjoying the picturesque landscapes by train, or navigating the city’s comprehensive public transport network, Lisbon’s accessibility and convenience make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in its rich culture, history, and beauty.

And there you have our 48 hours in Lisbon. We are heading back there soon and will share even more things to do in the city. We have barely scratched the surface, but if you only have a short Lisbon trip, this itinerary will show you the best of Lisbon from the Old City.

Three is an entire modern part to this Portuguese capital, so make sure to add more days to your Lisbon itinerary, there is a lot to see and do!

Plan More of your Lisbon and Portugal Itinerary