Whether you’re squeezing in a quick getaway between work commitments or adding a brief yet memorable stop to a larger European adventure, this 2-day itinerary for Lisbon offers a perfect blend of the city’s iconic sights, hidden gems, and nearby treasures like Sintra and Cascais.
Day 1: Lisbon Highlights and Hidden Gems
Morning
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Zenith, a trendy café known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu featuring fresh local ingredients and innovative twists on traditional Portuguese dishes.
After breakfast, join a Tuk-Tuk City Tour to see Lisbon’s iconic sights such as Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries), and Alfama District with its narrow streets and historic buildings. This tour is a great way to maximize your time and cover a lot of ground efficiently, allowing you to experience the best of Lisbon even with a limited schedule. A tour is usually around 3 hours.
Afternoon
After your Tuk-Tuk adventure, grab lunch at Augusto Lisboa in the Alfama district. This charming restaurant is renowned for its warm hospitality and mouthwatering Portuguese dishes. Delight in traditional favorites like octopus salad and codfish cakes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The cozy setting and friendly service make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal before continuing your exploration of Lisbon
Post-lunch, make your way to São Jorge Castle. Explore the castle grounds and take in the panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Next, proceed to the nearby Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Spend some time enjoying this picturesque viewpoint adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles, offering beautiful vistas of the Alfama district and the river.
After taking in the views, head to the Elevador de Santa Justa. This iconic lift connects the lower streets of Baixa with the higher Carmo Square and offers stunning views of the city from its viewing platform. Take a short walk to Praça Dom Pedro IV, commonly known as Rossio Square. This bustling square is one of Lisbon’s main squares and is known for its wave-patterned cobblestone paving, fountains, and historic buildings. Spend some time here soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafés.
As the evening approaches, head to Topo, a trendy rooftop bar and restaurant located on the 6th floor of the Martim Moniz commercial center. Here, you can unwind with creative cocktails and light bites while taking in the spectacular views over Lisbon. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to end your day.
Day 2: Sintra and Cascais
Morning & Afternoon
Start your day with an early breakfast at Roo’s Cafe, a cozy spot known for its excellent coffee and delicious pastries (open from 8am). For ease and convenience, consider booking a guided tour of Sintra and Cascais, which will take care of transportation and provide insightful commentary about these stunning destinations.
Travel to Sintra, a charming town known for its fairytale-like palaces and lush landscapes. Start with a guided tour of Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its countless sculptures, gardens, and fountains, and learn all the details of the famous Initiation Well, a nine-story spiral well symbolizing the nine circles of hell or paradise.
Take some free time to stroll through Sintra’s narrow streets and grab a light lunch, before your next guided tour of the main landmarks of Sintra.
Arrive at the romantic Pena Palace, a fairytale-style building that was one of the favorite residences of the royal family throughout the 19th century. The palace showcases different styles, such as Neo-Gothic, Neo-Moorish, and Indo-Gothic, reflecting the exotic taste of Romanticism. As you walk through the palace, you’ll learn about its fascinating history and why it is listed among the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
After exploring Sintra, head to Cascais, a picturesque fishing village linked to Portuguese royals who summered here. Take a relaxing walk around the promenade, enjoying the beautiful beaches, mansions, museums, and photogenic streets.
Evening
In the late afternoon, return to Lisbon. Spend some time exploring the Principe Real neighborhood, known for its beautiful gardens, antique shops, and stylish boutiques. As the day winds down, make your way to The Lumi, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning sunset views over Lisbon. Enjoy a delicious dinner here, savoring modern Portuguese cuisine while watching the city transition from day to night.
With this itinerary, you’ll experience the perfect blend of Lisbon’s city charm, historic sights, and nearby treasures, making the most of your short visit.