Lisbon in 3 Days

Day 1: From Rossio to the River – Lisbon's Historic Heartbeat

Begin your Lisbon adventure aboard the Glória Funicular 🚋, which climbs the steep hill to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, where your reward is a panoramic view of the city’s terracotta rooftops. Stroll downhill to admire the neo-Manueline beauty of Rossio Train Station 🚉, then step into the ornate Casa do Alentejo, a hidden Moorish-style palace with a courtyard that feels like a film set.

Wander around Rossio Square, pausing at the South Fountain ⛲, and enter the solemn Church of Saint Dominic, which bears the marks of Lisbon’s earthquakes and fires. Nearby, the iconic Confeitaria Nacional offers flaky pastries and strong espresso—a perfect mid-morning pick-me-up.

Climb the Escadinhas da Saúde to reach the Santa Justa Lift, an Eiffel-inspired iron tower that offers yet another city vista. From the top, cross to the hauntingly beautiful Carmo Archaeological Museum, a roofless Gothic church frozen in time.

Make your way down the bustling Rua Augusta 🛍️ to the riverside Cais das Colunas, where stone steps lead right into the Tagus River. If your timing is right, explore the mysterious Galerias Romanas, an ancient Roman structure occasionally open to the public.

As night falls, take in the energy of Pink Street, Lisbon’s former red-light district turned nightlife hotspot. Finish the evening with a drink in Praça Luís de Camões, where locals and tourists mingle under the city lights.

Day 2: Alfama’s Soul and Skyline

Start your day in The Folks Sé, a concept store tucked near the grand Lisbon Cathedral ⛪, the oldest church in the city. From there, wind through Alfama’s cobblestone streets to the picture-perfect Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, where tile-lined benches offer postcard views.

Continue on to Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, a Baroque masterpiece, and browse local crafts at Casa São Miguel. Then climb to the Castelo de São Jorge, a Moorish castle offering sweeping views and a walk through Lisbon’s ancient roots.

Enjoy lunch or a coffee at Café da Garagem, a bohemian spot with views from a stage-like window. As the day winds down, head to Marvila to explore 8 Marvila, a creative hub for food and design. End at Miradouro da Graça, where locals gather with drinks in hand to watch the city glow at sunset.

Day 3: Belém, Brunch, and Bica

Begin in Belém at the Monument to the Discoveries, honoring Portugal’s seafaring past. Enjoy the iconic custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém before visiting the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and riverside Belém Tower.

Then shift gears at the LX Factory, a trendy district filled with art, food, and fashion. Have brunch at Fable Bookshop + Brunch Café, then browse modern furniture at Marquise da Mobler.

Make your way through the Santos design district, stroll Green Street, and hop on the Bica Funicular, one of Lisbon’s most photographed spots. Grab a warm tart at Manteigaria – Pastéis de Nata Factory, and finish your journey at Miradouro de Santo Amaro, watching the sun dip behind the 25 de Abril Bridge.