3 Days Lisbon Travel Guide: Exploring Portugal's Vibrant Capital

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Lisbon Travel Guide

Nicknamed the Cristiano Ronaldo capital of the world, Lisbon (or Lisboa) is a city bursting with energy and history, located on Portugal’s stunning western coast. If you've been to Lisbon, you'll instantly notice that it’s a beautiful mix of old-world charm and modern flair, creating an attractive destination rich in culture. With mouth-watering food, colourful azulejo tiled buildings, iconic yellow trams, lively neighborhoods, and fascinating cultural landmarks, Lisbon has something for everyone.

One of the most remarkable things about Lisbon is how effortlessly the locals go about their busy daily lives, even amid the hustle and bustle of tourists. They blend in as seamlessly as the old meets the new in this city. One of my favourite scenes of this city is the Portuguese eateries serving up delicious dishes to packed tables, while the narrow streets are full of lively vendors from different backgrounds selling everything from clothes to trinkets to eager tourists. The city’s energy is simply infectious!

How to Reach Lisbon?

The nearest airport to Lisbon is Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), located about 7 kilometers from the city center. We make it easy for you to BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS HERE with just one click. From the airport, you can conveniently book a taxi to your destination using EASY AIRPORT TAXIS BOOKINGS. Ubers are also popular, reliable, and easy to use in Lisbon. If you're arriving by train, Gare do Oriente and Santa Apolónia are Lisbon's major railway stations, well-connected to cities across Portugal and Europe. The stations are located about 5 to 10 kilometers from the city center. Lisbon’s bus network is extensive, and services like Carris buses or private companies can take you around the city or to nearby towns. The Sete Rios bus terminal is the main hub for long-distance buses, while Aeroporto - Sete Rios services connect travellers from the airport. You can also opt to rent a car and drive yourself, easily arranged by BOOKING HERE.

Where to Stay in Lisbon?

I chose Booking.com for my hotel stays in Lisbon. Booking.com offers repeat customers special discounts ranging from 10% to 20% through its Genius loyalty program, along with exclusive offers and targeted promotions to encourage direct bookings. Want to book your stay in Lisbon? Use my LINK.

Lisbon Story Guesthouse (between €60 and €150 per night)- When we arrived in Lisbon, we stayed at the Lisbon Story Guesthouse. It’s a cozy and friendly place right in the city center, with a great number of restaurants just below the apartment. The area isn’t the most appealing, we noticed that the square below was bustling with people in the morning, particularly African vendors selling second-hand goods.

Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa (between €200 and €300 per night)- On our last day in Lisbon, we stayed in a spacious 3-bedroom apartment (M2) at Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa. It was well-equipped and had a bathroom for each room! The central location was perfect, with plenty of restaurants nearby. The hotel’s restaurant was amazing, and the live music added to the experience. The friendly host even left a complimentary bottle of champagne, which was a lovely touch. We wished we could have stayed longer!

Villa Laranja-Limao - Villa Laranja-Limão is located in Vila Nogueira de Azeitão in Setúbal and is close to Lisbon. It's approximately 35 kilometers (about 22 miles) south of the city, which takes around 40-50 minutes by car. Villa Laranja-Limao is a charming private villa that accommodates up to 10 guests, making it ideal for family or group holidays. The villa features three bedrooms, a private terrace, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious living area. It also has a private saltwater pool, garden, BBQ facilities, and plenty of amenities for children, including a kids' pool and outdoor play equipment It's a great option for a more relaxed and scenic stay while still being close enough for day trips to Lisbon. Check out their website.

Budget Hotels (€50 to €100 per night)

• The Local Guest House Lisbon offers larger rooms and family suites, making it suitable for families.

• Safira has a range of room types, including family rooms, ideal for those traveling with kids.

• Estrela Guesthouse provides comfortable accommodations that can be suitable for families, though it’s best to confirm room capacity and amenities directly before booking.

  
  

Medium Hotels (between €100 and €200 per night)

• Alfama - Lisbon Lounge Suites: Cozy apartments in the heart of Alfama, perfect for experiencing Lisbon's historic charm.

• Hotel Gat Rossio: Trendy and modern hotel near Rossio Square, offering easy access to central attractions and transport​.

• Lisbon 5 Hotel: Stylish boutique hotel with a central location, close to popular sights and vibrant dining spots.

  
  

Luxury Hotels (from €200 and can go up to €500 or more per night)

• Bairro Alto Hotel: A luxurious property in the trendy Bairro Alto neighborhood, renowned for its elegant decor and stunning views​.

• The Lumiares Hotel & Spa: This beautifully designed hotel boasts a rooftop terrace and excellent spa facilities, perfect for a lavish stay​.

• Hotel Avenida Palace: A historic hotel offering opulent decor near Rossio Square, providing a classic luxury experience​.

Let's kick start this adventure!

It was one of the most exciting vacations ever with moments of unfiltered love and happiness. The favourite part of holidays for me - the companionship of Family. We had long decided that when we make the trip to Portugal, it’s going to be with my sister and her immediate family, that includes my vivacious brother-in-law and our joyful little 1 year old Rumi. The planning for this trip had begun 6 months earlier. only with so many delightful places to explore in Portugal and only 7 days in hand, we were also picky that we make this a very relaxed affair and not a run-around-the mulberry bush kind of a thing.

The long-awaited day had arrived: we were finally meeting my sister and her family, who were flying in from Dubai to Lisbon. The excitement was palpable as both our flights landed at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport around the same time. They were arriving on Emirates from Dubai, while we were coming in on Ryanair from Brussels South Charleroi Airport. Immigration at Lisbon Airport was quick and efficient, and we took a cab to our apartment.

Day 1:

São Domingos Square

The next morning was wonderful as we woke up to a lively square and stunning city views from our apartment balcony. We decided to take a stroll before breakfast arrived. São Domingos Square (Praça de São Domingos) is a charming spot in Lisbon’s Baixa district, known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. The square is home to São Domingos Church, which was rebuilt after a major fire in 1959. We loved how the area blends traditional and modern architecture, with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby, making it easy to pick up groceries, essentials, or just grab a bite to eat. São Domingos Square is a central part of Lisbon's urban scene and a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Make a Lunch Reservation at Casa do Alentejo

After strolling around São Domingos Square and taking in much of the morning vibe of the capital, we made a beeline for the majestic Casa do Alentejo. My Portuguese neighbor suggested we dine at Casa do Alentejo. From the outside, it looks plain with just a simple door and no sign, but once you step inside, it’s like entering a world full of Alentejo culture. The interior is beautifully decorated with intricate woodwork, classic tiles, and elegant furniture that create a warm, timeless atmosphere.

Casa do Alentejo isn’t just about its lovely setting; it’s also a vibrant cultural spot. There are always interesting events like book readings, poetry sessions, art exhibits, and themed activities. They also host competitions in arts and literature, along with craft fairs and special weeks celebrating different areas of Alentejo.

We were amazed by both the restaurant’s design and the food. Don’t miss trying traditional dishes like Açorda à Alentejana (a savory bread soup with garlic, coriander, and poached eggs), Porco Preto (tender black pork, often grilled or stewed), Migas (a flavorful dish made with leftover bread, garlic, and spices), and Sericaia (a soft, sweet custard dessert, usually with a plum sauce). Every dish is a delicious taste of Alentejo’s rich culinary traditions, making our visit truly memorable!

Elevador da Santa Justa (Santa Justa Elevator)

After a very delicious lunch, we decided to tour the acclaimed hotspots of the city- starting with Elevador da Santa Justa. As we strolled down Rua de Santa Justa, we came across a stunning, antique lift at the end of the street. This beautiful structure, known as the Santa Justa Lift, has been around since 1902 and was originally powered by steam. It was designed by Portuguese-born French architect Raoul de Mesnier du Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel. Dont you think it looks a bit like the Eiffel Tower! It might just be the most gorgeous elevator in the world.

We didn’t go up because of the long queue, but we explored the street behind it instead. If you’re keen to take a ride, tickets cost 6 euros for two trips, and it’s free if you have the Lisboa Card. Alternatively, you can skip the line by entering from the church ruins behind H&M—just a 5 to 7-minute walk uphill. This route takes you straight to the lift's terrace and offers stunning city views, access to some rooftop bars, and best of all, it’s free!

Elevador da Bica (Bica Elevator)

The Elevador da Bica is one of the most photographed funiculars in Lisbon, known for its dramatic route and picturesque views of the river. It connects Largo do Calhariz to Rua de São Paulo, offering a charming descent, though the ascent can be quite steep. We were excited to ride it at first, but the experience was a bit underwhelming. Despite the funicular being full, the driver seemed to be sticking to a timetable, which meant we waited in a stiflingly hot little cabin for what felt like forever.

Beautiful flower-shaped gelato at Amorino

I remember it started pouring heavily, so we took shelter in this ice cream shop. What a stroke of luck! It turned out to be the creamiest ice cream we’d ever had, and the best part was that you could mix in as many flavors as you wanted, even with the smallest scoop, which was €3. We decided to check it out because of the long line, and although it’s a bit on the pricey side, it’s definitely worth it. I especially loved the salted caramel and chocolate, and I’ve heard great things about the Stracciatella and pistachio flavors too.

The gelato here is crafted in different styles, including a beautiful flower-shaped design that’s almost too pretty to eat. There’s plenty of seating both inside and outside, and they even have a restroom for customers.

Wander through Rossio Square

After a day well spent, we decided to spend our evening time at Rossio Square (Praça do Rossio), which was closer to our apartment and also one of Lisbon's main squares. The square has this huge pedestrian area, complete with trees, tons of cafes, restaurants, and those oh-so-unique tourist shops. You can’t miss the grand buildings and two fancy bronze fountains that just scream “imported from France!” Then there’s the statue in the center, supposedly of Dom Pedro IV, but wait—plot twist! Some people think it’s actually Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico. Now who's to tell the truth? Classic!

Day 2

Torre de Belém (Belem tower)

They say visiting Belém Tower is a chance to explore Portugal's history. The Belém Tower, also known as Torre de Belém, is an iconic landmark located in Lisbon, Portugal. This historical tower stands on the banks of the Tagus River and holds great significance in Portuguese maritime history.

The Belém Tower is a magnificent fortress-like structure built in the 16th century during the Age of Discoveries. It features a unique blend of architectural styles, combining elements of Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline (Portuguese late Gothic) design. Its intricate stonework, decorative battlements, and ornate turrets make it a true architectural gem.

Belém Tower sits on a small island near the shore and once guarded the entrance to Lisbon's harbor. It's a symbol of Portugal's maritime power from the age of exploration. The tower's detailed stone carvings, showing ropes, royal symbols, and maritime motifs, are beautiful to see up close. Inside, there are rooms that were once used as prisons, storage, and a chapel, while the upper levels offer great views of the Tagus River.

Lunch at Nosolo italia

Just a 10-minute walk from the Belém Tower toward the Monument to the Discoveries, you'll find the Italian restaurant Nosolo Itália. The location is hard to beat. We were seated on the terrace, enjoying a view of the monument. It's ideally positioned near many of Belém's attractions, such as the National Coach Museum, Terreiro das Missas, Escultura de Luz, the Popular Art Museum, 'Bom Sucesso' Marina, and the Belém Lighthouse—all within a short walking distance. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. Though a bit expensive for pizzas and pastas, the prices reflect the prime location.

Explore the Alfama District

After lunch, we hopped on a tuk-tuk all the way to the famous Alfama district. Here you can truly get lost in the narrow streets of the historic Alfama district, known for its traditional atmosphere, colorful houses, and Fado music. Everywhere you look, you will see traditional houses whose facades are designed in Ajoleju tiles. These tiles are known for their beautiful, colorful designs and traditional Portuguese patterns. We were also fortunate that it was a Saturday, as we could explore the Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s main flea market, which features a variety of antiques, crafts, and local goods. Make sure you visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from Miradouro das Portas do Sol. If your musically inclined, then the Fado museum is a great place to explore. This small museum showcases the history of Fado, Portugal’s traditional music genre.

Praça do Comércio (Commerce Plaza)

Comércio Plaza , also known as Praça do Comércio or Terreiro do Paço or Palace Square, is one of the main squares within the Baixa district, facing the Tagus River.

Praça do Comércio is a spacious square with a historical significance that dates back to the 18th century. It was once the main entrance to the city and served as a bustling hub for trade and commerce. The square is surrounded by magnificent yellow-colored buildings, creating an impressive architectural backdrop. It was once home to the Royal Ribeira Palace until an earthquake in 1755 destroyed it, along with many other buildings in the area. The square was later rebuilt with government offices, including the Lisboa Welcome Centre and the Lisboa Story gallery, which explains the square’s name today.

At the center of the square stands the statue of Dom José I (King José I), which was unveiled in 1775 and is one of the largest equestrian statues in Europe. On the north side, you’ll find the impressive triumphal arch, ‘Arco de Rua Augusta,’ completed in 1873. The arch features sculptures of historical figures like Vasco da Gama. Be sure to climb to the top for a stunning bird’s-eye view of Praça do Comércio and Lisbon. Beneath the arch, you can explore one of the lively shopping streets, filled with charming souvenir shops and spots to grab a snack. Plus, you’ll find some amazing artwork by the river, including beautiful stone and sand sculptures.

Rua Augusta in Baixa District

From there we were back in Rua Augusta in Baixa. Rua Augusta is a vibrant pedestrian street that leads from Praça do Comércio to the majestic Arco da Rua Augusta, an archway marking the entrance to the street. Rua Augusta is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. We knew we had to pick one of the many Portuguese restaurants here for dinner and a couple of good cocktails!

Day 3

Enchanting, historic, lush, magical Sintra

The forecast predicted rain that day, which had us on edge since our plans included a trip to Sintra and then heading to the Algarve. Sintra has castles, charm, and just the right amount of uphill hiking to make you rethink your fitness goals! But with the rain, we were a bit unsure about how the experience would turn out. So to give you a better idea, Sintra is a captivating town located in the Lisbon District of Portugal. Known for its fairytale-like atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for visitors.

The town is renowned for its Romanticist architecture, with fanciful palaces adorned with turrets, colorful facades, and intricate details. One of the most famous landmarks in Sintra is the Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena). Perched atop a hill, it showcases a majestic blend of architectural styles, incorporating elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences. The palace is surrounded by enchanting gardens, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Before we headed to the palace, we made sure to grab a good meal since we found out there are no restaurants or cafés up near the palace. After lunch, we hopped on the line 434 bus, which takes about 25 minutes and costs around $4 to $6 from Sintra Station to Pena National Palace. If you prefer walking, there’s a lovely route that leads to two of Sintra’s most impressive sights, the Moorish Castle and the Park and Palace of Pena, with amazing views along the way. If you’re traveling with two or more people, taking an Uber is a great option— it costs about 7 euros.

We spent about two hours exploring the palace and the same in the gardens. We could have easily stayed longer, but unfortunately, there was no electricity in the castle, which felt a bit disappointing. Plus, we wanted to make time to visit the Moorish Castle, so we ended up walking down to Sintra, which took about 45 minutes.

After we were done exploring the palace, we explored Sintra's historic center which was pure joy!It is basically narrow streets full of cute shops, local restaurants, and inviting cafés. The mix of medieval and 19th-century buildings feels like you are in some wonderland.

Book your Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon via Viator HERE.

Closing Thoughts

Lisbon is a vibrant city bursting with charm, and I can’t wait to return! The warm and welcoming locals truly make it special, and although there's so much to explore, our three-day visit was fulfilling. If you want to wander through historic streets, savor delicious food, or soak in the stunning views, Lisbon is the place to go! I highly recommend adding this enchanting city to your travel list!

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