Is 2 days in Lisbon enough? While Lisbon has so much to offer, you can still experience the unique allure of Lisbon in 2 days with our ultimate itinerary. From wandering through the charming streets of Alfama to riding the iconic Tram 28, this guide ensures you make the most of your time while avoiding the crowds.
Lisbon was our first stop on a two-week trip through Portugal and Galicia, and it completely won us over. We want you to fall under its spell too.Whether you’re soaking views from a Miradouro or diving into the city’s legendary nightlife, with its Fado-filled nights, this two-day itinerary is designed to give you the best of Lisbon, blending history, culture, and food. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on where to eat, how to get around, and how to experience Lisbon like a local.
Table of Contents
The basics, what to know and when to go
Geography:
Lisbon, or Lisboa as it’s called in Portuguese, is the vibrant capital of Portugal. in the south of Portugal, Lisbon stretches along the coast of the Tagus River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Its strategic location has been crucial throughout history, serving as an important commercial port and a gateway to the European continent.
History:
Lisbon has a fascinating history that dates back to its origins as a Phoenician settlement. For centuries, the city was under Moorish rule which shaped its culture and architecture (experience it in the Castello de Sao Jorge and Alfama). In the 12th century, the country was reclaimed during the Christian Reconquista. Lisbon later flourished as a center of spice trade during Portugal’s colonial splendor (visit Jerónimos Monastery to relive this era) However, in 1755, a devastating earthquake changed the city forever, leaving haunting reminders like the Carmo Convent.
Who rebuilt Lisbon? The Marquês de Pombal, Portugal’s prime minister at the time, led an ambitious reconstruction effort, designing a new city layout with wide streets and Pombaline architecture in Baixa. His urban planning introduced anti-seismic buildings and one of the world’s first grid-based city layouts, making Lisbon one of the most modern cities of its time.
Lisbon entered the 20th century, enduring decades under a dictatorship, which ended in 1974 with the Carnation Revolution, ushering in democracy. Today, Lisbon is a vibrant, evolving city blending history with modernity.
Literature:
Portuguese authors, blessed with a language as rich as it is pleasing to the ear, have left behind countless literary and poetic masterpieces. José Saramago, Nobel Prize in Literature, is one of the most internationally recognized writers. A perfect book to read on the plane is “The History of the Siege of Lisbon,” a mix of fantasy love story and alternative history, which you will carry in your thoughts as you explore São Jorge Castle and the streets of Chiado.
Best Time to Visit Lisbon:
When is the best time to visit Lisbon? Portugal has become a top travel destination, but timing your visit right can make all the difference. Summer (June–August) brings large crowds and intense heat, making it less ideal unless you don’t mind crowds and heat. The best months to visit Lisbon are April–May and September–October, when the weather is pleasant, crowds are a bit smaller (still popular though), and at this time Lisbon might be less expensive.
Travel Tips:
Lisbon is a safe city, but as in any major destination, it’s important to stay aware—especially on trams and in crowded areas where pickpockets may be active. Walking is the best way to explore, but Lisbon’s steep hills and cobbled streets can be challenging. Wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your adventure!
This blog will guide you through the best places, hidden gems, and our top recommendations for culinary and cultural experiences. Let’s explore Lisbon in two days!
Lisbon in 2 Days Itinerary: Best Attractions & Tips
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| First Day | |
| Hotel Check-In, freshen up and leave luggage | 30 minutes |
| Rossio Square | 20 minutes |
| Coffee on Rua Augusta | 45 minutes |
| Commerce Square Esplanade | 45 minutes |
| Pink Street | 30 minutes |
| São Paulo Square | 5 minutes |
| Bus to Jerónimos Monastery | 30 minutes |
| Jerónimos Monastery | 2 hours |
| Belém (including walk) | 1 hour |
| Bairro Alto/Dinner | 3 hours |
| Second Day | |
| Optional 5k run | 45 minutes |
| Breakfast at Folks Chiado | 45 minutes |
| Tram 12/Miradouro Portas do Sol | 30 minutes |
| São Jorge Castle | 1 hour |
| Castle/Alfama/Lunch | 3 hours |
| Lisbon Cathedral | 30 minutes |
| São Nicolau Church | 30 minutes |
| Carmo Convent | 1 hour |
| A Brasileira Café | 1 hour |
| Tram 28 | 1 hour |
| Tasca da Chico (Fado night) | As long as you like |
How to Get from Lisbon Airport to the City Center: Best Transport Options.
Humberto Deltado Airport
Once you’ve completed your migration and customs procedures and exited to the arrivals hall, you’ll find the visitlisboa.com counter. This is the perfect opportunity to buy the Lisbon Card, which might save you money and make it easier to access public transport and key tourist sites. See the end of this section for explanation on how to use it.
Lisbon Metro
If you have little luggage and your hotel is near a station, this is the most economical option. Lisbon’s metro is modern, clean, and many stations are true works of art. The entrance is in front of the terminal in a red building marked with an “M”. You can’t miss it. There are escalators and elevators. The red line is the one that reaches the airport and connects with Oriente station (if your hotel is in Parque das Nações), Alameda (for transfers to historic center stations), and São Sebastião (if you’re staying near the Santa Apolónia train station). You can use your Lisbon Card to activate its use for the next 24 hours if you buy the one-day card, or buy a single ticket, which costs 1.5 euros per person.
Taxi or Uber:
Wondering if Lisbon has Uber? Yes! And it’s often cheaper than taxis. When I travel to cities I haven’t visited before, I prefer to use Uber and have the piece of mind of knowing the cost of the trip in advance. Uber prices are reasonable in Lisbon. For example, the ride to Rossio cost us 14 euros. After being cooped up on a plane for several hours, and since it was Sunday morning with light traffic, we opted for Uber. Plus, our excitement about seeing Lisbon for the first time made this option even more attractive. To take an Uber, you need to go to a small parking lot called “Kiss and Fly”. The best way to get there is to take the escalator in the terminal to the right before the exit doors. After the escalator, take the first exit, cross the street, and you’ll be at “Kiss and Fly”. Once we ordered the Uber, it arrived in about ten minutes. There is a small roof, so if it rains, the only inconvenience would be crossing the street. “Kiss and Fly” , since we’ve already flown, only the kissing remains.
These options will allow you to reach your destination comfortably and efficiently, so you can start exploring Lisbon without worries. Welcome to Lisbon!
Lisboa Card
The Lisboa card is the city’s official card and it was worth it for our itinerary (in our case the one day option) Keep it mind that it activates with its first use not at the time of purchase. The card includes public transportation by validating the card on the vehicle reader (metro, trains, buses and funiculars) The prices for one day is 27 euros. If you want to buy it online make sure you use the official site www.visitlisboa.com. Scam websites offer them at a higher cost.
Day 1: Lisbon’s Riverside Wonders: Praça do Comércio, Jerónimos & Belém, with Dinner in Bairro Alto
Our Lisbon Itinerary in Google Maps. Follow along.
Our first day was a perfect mix of history, scenery, and great food—a journey through Lisbon’s most iconic riverside landmarks. You can follow our exact route on Google Maps and save it for easy access while exploring.
Rossio Square: The Perfect Starting Point for Your Lisbon Adventure
Among Lisbon’s many vibrant neighborhoods, we chose to stay near Rossio Square, and it turned out to be the perfect base. Centrally located with easy access to the Metro, it makes getting around the city effortless. If you’re looking for a convenient hub for your Lisbon itinerary, this is it. We stayed at Rossio Plaza Hotel—you can check out our full review here.
Stepping into Rossio Square, you’ll instantly notice its elegant, elongated layout, with the statue of Pedro IV—King of Portugal and Emperor of Brazil—standing proudly at its center. Some historians believe the square’s shape dates back to Roman times, when it was a hippodrome. The ground’s wavy mosaics, a signature of Portuguese calçada pavement, add to the charm, making this a perfect first stop in Lisbon.
💡 If you’ve been to Rio de Janeiro, you might recognize this same mosaic design—it’s famously used on the esplanade of Copacabana Beach, a direct influence from Portuguese craftsmanship.
If, like us, you arrive early in the morning, Rua Augusta is just around the corner—the perfect spot to enjoy a rejuvenating al fresco coffee before diving into the day’s adventures
Praça do Comércio: Lisbon’s Grand Square by the Tagus
Praça do Comércio was once the site of the royal palace before the devastating 1755 earthquake. Today, it houses several government ministries and is home to two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks: the equestrian statue of King José I, depicting the king on horseback, and the striking Arco da Rua Augusta, which features figures like Vasco da Gama and Marquês de Pombal—the man behind Lisbon’s grand reconstruction.
We strolled along the esplanade, starting at the two pillars that mark the square’s waterfront entrance. As we walked, a street artist filled the air with jazz, adding a magical touch to the moment—one of those unexpected Lisbon experiences that makes the city so special
Pink Street: Lisbon’s Most Photogenic Al Fresco Spot
We made our way to the colorful Pink Street, a vibrant pedestrian block that has become a symbol of Lisbon’s urban renewal. Once a run-down red-light district, it was transformed into one of the city’s trendiest areas. In 2015, The New York Times recognized it as one of the 12 most popular streets in Europe.
With its bright pink pavement, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere, Pink Street is super photogenic and definitely worth a stroll. While the area is best known for its nightlife, we visited in the early morning, when the street was calm and bathed in soft light—a perfect al fresco spot to soak in the surroundings before the crowds arrive.
Praça de São Paulo: A Hidden Gem Near Pink Street
We left Pink Street and arrived at the beautiful Praça de São Paulo, home to the historic Church of São Paulo. A quiet contrast to the lively bars nearby, this charming square is a great spot to take a breather before continuing our Lisbon adventure
Getting to Jerónimos: Bus, Tram & Our Tips
We took bus 201 (since tram 15E was packed) to reach Jerónimos Monastery. With the Lisbon Card, we skipped buying a ticket at Jerónimos and only had to wait in the entry line. Although the line was long, it moved quickly.
Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, showcasing Portugal’s wealth and power during its golden age. We’ve dedicated a full blog post to Jerónimos and Santa Maria de Belém (and a YouTube video), so check it out for more details
Santa Maria de Belém: Resting Place of Legends
Located inside Jerónimos Monastery, the Church of Santa Maria de Belém is a stunning mix of Gothic and Manueline styles. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões—two of Portugal’s most important historical figures
Belém Tower: One of Lisbon’s Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Today’s itinerary takes us to not just one, but both of Lisbon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites—starting with Jerónimos Monastery and now arriving at Belém Tower. Built between 1514 and 1519, this striking fortress was designed to defend Lisbon and serve as a ceremonial gateway to the city. It’s a stunning example of Manueline architecture, adorned with maritime motifs that celebrate Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
Although we didn’t make it in time to go inside, we still enjoyed the beautiful views from the nearby park—a perfect spot to relax and take photos. From here, we hopped on tram 15E, conveniently located just a few blocks from the tower, and headed back to the historic center.
Bairro Alto: A Local’s Dinner & A Lesson in Beating the Crowds
We got off the tram at Conde Barão station and made our way to Bairro Alto, following the steep street where the Bica funicular runs. The funicular was full and the line long, so we embraced the Lisbon experience and walked up the hill (actually a better photo op than the funicular)
💡 Lisbon Travel Tip: Many of the city’s top attractions get long lines at certain times of the day. If you’re strategic, you can avoid wait times and maximize your experience—instead of spending hours in queues.
For dinner, we found an authentic local spot, A Baiuca da Bairro Alto. What caught our attention? It wasn’t just filled with tourists—there were plenty of Lisboetas (locals) enjoying their meals. That’s always a good sign! We had delicious octopus, crispy fried chicken breast, great wine, and excellent service. At the end of our meal, we chatted with the original owner, a warm Lisboeta avó (grandma), who shared stories about the restaurant’s history, now run by her children.
Stairs to Baixa & A Magical Goodbye to Our Day
We wrapped up our incredible first day in Lisbon exhausted but happy, taking the stairs between Convento do Carmo and the Elevador de Santa Justa back down to Baixa and Rossio Square.
And then—one last unforgettable moment. Against the illuminated walls of Convento do Carmo, a street musician played “Libertango” by Astor Piazzolla on the violin. The tango, the glow of the historic ruins, and the quiet buzz of Lisbon at night—it felt downright spiritual, a perfect ending to an amazing day
This is an affiliate link—we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!
Day 2: Lisbon's Timeless Charm: Castelo, Alfama, Chiado & Fado Nights
Lisbon is a walkable city. While its hills and steps will test your form, every climb is rewarded with breathtaking views, charming streets, and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. Today, we’ll be exploring on foot and tram, ascending to Castelo de São Jorge, wandering through the labyrinthine alleys of Alfama, and strolling through the elegant streets of Chiado.
Put on your most comfortable shoes—we have a full day ahead, and it ends in the best way possible: with the soulful melodies of Fado in an unforgettable night.
🏃♂️ Morning Run in Lisbon
For the runners out there, if you’re staying in Chiado, you can enjoy a brief 5 km morning run on relatively flat terrain, though you need to be cautious of the cobblestones. I always find that running in a new city is a fantastic way to explore, and the occasional nod or greeting from another runner makes the experience even more enriching.
In this itinerary you will enjoy the views and the breeze of the Taugus.
Breakfast at The Folks Chiado
The morning run worked up an appetite, and a hearty breakfast was in order. The Folks Chiado delivered with a delicious latte and gourmet scrambled eggs that hit the spot. The café’s modern and elegant ambiance made for a perfect start to the day, and the prime location offered excellent people-watching opportunities.
Tram 12 & Miradouro Portas do Sol
A fantastic way to reach the castle is by taking Tram 12 in the morning. Many tourists line up for the popular Tram 28, but Tram 12 usually has space and takes you up to Alfama with just a brief (but steep) walk to the castle. If you activated the Lisbon Card the day before, it will likely still be valid and can be used to pay for the ride.
A quick tip: the driver may warn you that the tram doesn’t go directly to the castle, but don’t worry—the steep walk is short and pleasant. You will get off the tram by Miradouro Portas do Sol that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon’s tiled rooftops cascading toward the Tagus River.
Castelo de São Jorge: Worth the Visit? Absolutely!
Entrance Fee: €15 per person (not included in the Lisbon Card)
While some travel guides—including Rick Steves—suggest skipping Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle), I strongly disagree. The views from the castle are not just good; they are some of the best in the city. While there are other miradouros (viewpoints) in the area, none offer the expansive 360-degree views you’ll get from the castle’s ramparts.
Beyond the views, the castle park is a delight, home to majestic peacocks that roam freely. The Camera Obscura exhibit inside offers a fascinating and interactive way to see Lisbon’s streets in real time through an ancient optical device—definitely worth checking out.
Travel Tip: Buy your tickets online in advance. Otherwise, you could face a one-hour wait at the ticket office.
Castelo & Alfama: Wandering Through Lisbon’s Oldest Streets
You’ll notice that there’s no set itinerary for Castelo de São Jorge and Alfama on our Google Map—just location markers. That’s because trying to follow a rigid path through these narrow, character-filled streets would be a crime. This is a place meant for getting lost and soaking in the atmosphere. If you do find yourself turned around, why not ask for directions in Portuguese? It’s all part of the experience! Google Maps is for novice travelers here—trust your instincts.
Must-See Stops:
- Try Ginjinha: Have a shot (or two) of Lisbon’s signature cherry liqueur. Every vendor will tell you they serve the best in town—your duty is to find out if they’re right. Prices usually hover around two euros a shot.
- Rua de São Miguel: Stroll through this charming Alfama street and snap a classic Lisbon photo with the whitewashed church as a backdrop.
- Largo de São Miguel Square: A perfect spot to take in Alfama’s local vibes.
- Escadinhas de Santo Estêvão: Climb these picturesque steps for a fantastic view from Miradouro de Santo Estêvão.
- Old Alfama Square & Rua da Judaria: Explore the former Jewish quarter before heading to Lisbon Cathedral, which is just a few blocks away—our next stop.
Alfama’s charm in three moments—sipping Ginjinha with a local vendor, live street music in a sunlit square, and wandering the district’s historic cobblestone streets.
Jews and the Inquisition in Lisbon
Jewish Life in Medieval Lisbon
During the Middle Ages, Jews in Lisbon experienced a period of relative prosperity and freedom. They lived in designated neighborhoods known as Judiarias, where they could practice their religion and traditions.
The Portuguese Inquisition
The Portuguese Inquisition, which began in 1536, marked a dark period for Lisbon’s Jewish community. The Inquisition sought to identify and punish converted Jews (conversos or New Christians) suspected of secretly practicing Judaism. This led to widespread persecution, forced conversions, and expulsions from Portugal.
The Inquisition’s Impact and the Destruction of the Judiarias. Many Jews were forced to flee the country or live a double life, outwardly practicing Christianity while secretly maintaining their faith. The 1755 earthquake further erased Lisbon’s Judiarias, as post-earthquake reconstruction widened streets and redesigned the city layout, leaving little trace of these historic neighborhoods.
Jewish Presence in Lisbon Today
Jewish Presence in Lisbon Today
Though the original Judiarias have disappeared, Lisbon’s Jewish heritage endures. In Alfama, Rua da Judiaria remains a reminder of this past. A Jewish Community Center (judiarialisboa.com) organizes tours and events for those interested in exploring this history. While we didn’t have time to visit during our stay, it’s a great resource for learning more about Lisbon’s Jewish legacy.
As we can appreciate in the image on the right, Jewish heritage in Rua da Judaria— is present with ceramic tiles reflecting centuries of culture and resilience in Lisbon’s historic Jewish quarter.
Afternoon Itinerary: From History to Elegance
In the afternoon, we visited the Lisbon Cathedral, wandered through Baixa to catch a few spots we had missed the first day, and then made our way to the Elevador de Santa Justa for stunning city views. We explored the hauntingly beautiful Convento do Carmo, a reminder of Lisbon’s resilience, before ending the day in elegant Chiado, enjoying a well-deserved coffee at A Brasileira.
Follow our afternoon itinerary in google maps.
Sé de Lisboa: A Fortress Turned Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé de Lisboa, is the city’s oldest church, dating back to the 12th century. From the outside, it resembles a fortress, blending various architectural styles. Its two imposing towers, which look more like those of a castle than a church, flank a beautiful rose window (rosetón).
Entry is free, unless you want to visit the art and goldsmith collections or access the balcony beneath the rose window. While the interior doesn’t house world-famous artworks, it is undeniably beautiful, especially when the sunlight filters through the rose window, casting a unique glow.
Baixa: Shops & São Nicolau’s Baroque Beauty
After visiting the cathedral, we wandered through Baixa, Lisbon’s historic downtown and one of the best examples of Pombaline architecture, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. With its wide, grid-like streets, grand plazas, and lively atmosphere, Baixa is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
Along the way, we stopped at the Church of São Nicolau, a Baroque gem tucked between the bustling streets. Its ornate frescoes, intricate details, and grand altar make it worth a brief visit.
Convento de Carmo: Lisbon’s Open-Air Gothic Masterpiece
Next, we made our way to Convento de Carmo, an old Gothic church partially destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Unlike other churches that were rebuilt, Carmo was left in ruins as a tribute to the devastating event that reshaped Lisbon. The roofless nave and massive stone arches create a hauntingly beautiful scene, making it one of Lisbon’s most unique landmarks.
Today, its open-air ruins are a reminder of Lisbon’s history and resilience, and a paradise for Instagrammers and influencers.
A Brasileira: Lisbon’s Most Iconic Café
We ended our afternoon at A Brasileira, Lisbon’s most famous café and a cultural institution. Founded in 1905, it quickly became a meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals, including the legendary Fernando Pessoa, whose bronze statue now sits at one of the café’s tables.
We enjoyed a rich espresso while admiring the art deco interiors, filled with mirrors, chandeliers, and elegant wooden furnishings. The display of pastries and pastéis was equally tempting, we couldn’t pass a pastei de nata to accompany our espresso.
Which Lisbon Tram is Best for Sightseeing?
Lisbon’s historic trams are part of the city's charm, and choosing the right one can make a difference in your experience.
First, How to Purchase Tram Tickets
There are three ways to pay for your ride:
- Pay the driver (€3.10 per ride) Convenient if you're only taking one tram but be prepared to have exact change.
- 24-hour public transport ticket (€6.80) – Covers unlimited rides on trams, buses, and metro for a full day.
- Lisboa Card (included) – If you already have the Lisboa Card, tram rides are covered, making it a great value for visitors planning to use public transport frequently.
Here’s a breakdown of the best tram options for sightseeing:
Tram 12: A Short & Strategic Ride
As we mentioned earlier, we took Tram 12 up to Miradouro Portas do Sol. If you ride its full loop, it takes about 20 minutes and offers a brief but enjoyable experience. It shares part of its route with Tram 28, including the iconic approach to the cathedral, but without the overwhelming crowds. It was our insurance policy in case we didn’t get a chance to take Tram 28 later in our trip.
Tram 24: A Less Touristy Option
Some guides and blogs recommend Tram 24 because it’s less crowded. However, if you only have two days, its route is somewhat outside the main attractions, connecting Chiado with Príncipe Real and providing an opportunity to visit Jardim da Estrela.
Tram 28: The Classic, But Overcrowded Experience
The most famous and quintessential Lisbon tram ride is Tram 28, covering Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado. Its scenic route is legendary, but it gets incredibly busy.
While the ride is exceptional, you can only truly enjoy it if you get a seat. Standing makes it hard to see outside, and trying to balance, hold on, and take photos turns into a juggling act rather than a sightseeing activity.
💡 Our Recommendation: Ride Tram 28 only if you can sit. We took an opportunistic approach, passing by multiple tram stops over the two days, checking for available seats. By the end of the second day, we got lucky in Chiado and finally enjoyed the full ride in a seat with a view.
Fado at Tasca do Chico: A True Lisbon Nightlife Experience
Fado is the soul of Lisbon. The sound of Portuguese guitars and the deep, melancholic voices of Fado singers create an atmosphere that can only truly be experienced in Portugal. There are many ways to listen to Fado—some venues cater more to tourists, while others offer a more authentic, intimate setting (but expect tourists at every Fado stage)
As the highly rated Tasca do Chico, had a long line, we first tried a venue across the street where, while the musicians were talented, the experience felt overly commercial—the food and service were mediocre, and it was clear the place catered exclusively to tourists.
We left and headed back to Tasca do Chico. Yes, there’s a line to get in, but with frequent breaks between sets, it moves faster than expected—and it’s worth the wait. The audience was a perfect mix of locals and travelers, and the venue itself exuded character and history (pro tip: when there is a photo of Anthony Bourdain on the wall, the place is good) The performers were outstanding, and with a glass of vinho verde in hand, great camaraderie, and heartfelt Fado, we stayed well into the night and had a great time.
☑ Where to hear Fado in Lisbon? If you’re looking for a place that strikes where authenticity and quality meet, Tasca do Chico is a fantastic choice.
Are two days enough to visit Lisbon?
Lisbon is a city rich in history, culture, and charm. While there’s always more to explore, these two days provided a well-rounded experience, capturing the city’s essence, spirit, and allure. The itinerary moves at a steady pace, but it also allows time to enjoy long breakfasts, al fresco lunches, afternoon snacks, and soak in the stunning views without feeling rushed.
We invite you to check out our Lisbon video on our YouTube channel.
What do you think? Leave us a comment! If you have any questions or doubts about the itinerary, let us know—we’d love to help.
Thank you for reading, and happy travels!