Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Lisbon?
Should you spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Lisbon?
Many travelers spend at least 3 or as many as 7 days in Lisbon during their visit. After all, the picturesque city has plenty to explore such as the famous sights and museums, the historic old town, and the big city activities.
Lisbon is a beautiful and historic capital city that has dramatic hills and a scenic coastal setting. The old city is filled with pastel buildings and wandering streets. There are also tuk tuk tours and many amazing cafes that you can enjoy.
Do you have one or two days to visit Lisbon? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is one day enough time in Lisbon?
Lisbon, a large city brimming with sights and attractions, holds immense popularity among tourists. So with one day, you'll probably feel rushed to see the main attractions. You really need more time to appreciate everything that the picturesque city has to offer. Many visitors prefer to have at least 3 or as many as 7 days to fully enjoy the city. If you have one day or less, we still have some great ideas for what to do while you're in town.
How to spend a day in Lisbon
Lisbon is known for it's world-class museums and famous landmarks, so make sure you spend at least a day exploring at one or more of the most appealing. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Sintra and Cascais Private Tour with Pena Palace Ticket Included ($149)
- Lisboa: Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca Coast e Cascais 8h ($60)
- Private Tour Sintra from Lisbon Palaces of Pena & Regaleira ($162)
The culinary scene in Lisbon is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Heart of Lisbon Food Tour: Baixa, Chiado & Bairro Alto ($115)
- Lisbon: Catamaran Luxury Sunset and Wine Tour ($41)
- Lisbon off-the-beaten-path Small Group Tour: Sesimbra, Arrabida & Wine Tasting ($81)
Lisbon is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.
Is a weekend (two to three days) enough time in Lisbon?
A weekend trip is usually not enough time to experience the picturesque city of Lisbon, so you may find yourself somewhat rushed. Or, perhaps you'll want to return another time to take it all in. You don't want to miss the chance to wander through the museums, admire the historic sights, enjoy the city's energy, and dine out at amazing restaurants. Many tourists set aside at least 3 or as many as 7 days for their visit. However, if your schedule only gives you a couple of days, we have a handful of recommendations to make the most of your weekend adventure in Lisbon below.
Lisbon, Portugal
How to spend 2 days in Lisbon
With a weekend (two to three days) in Lisbon, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Half Day Historical Walking Tour about the Slave Trade in Lisbon ($38)
- Tuk Tuk Tour in Lisbon's Old Town - Tram 28 ($162)
- Lisbon Roots - Small group Food & Culture Walking Tour w/tastings ($161)
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Lisbon Pub Crawl ($23)
The public transit in Lisbon is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Lisbon, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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