Discover the best things to do in Lisbon in just two days. What to eat, where to go and how to get there, plan an amazing trip with our comprehensive guide. Read more!
Only got 2 days in Lisbon? You’re not alone. A lot of travelers wonder two days in lisbon what to do without feeling rushed or missing the good stuff. The good news? You don’t need a week to fall for this city.
From tram rides through the city center to sunset drinks in Bairro Alto, Lisbon knows how to charm in a short time. You’ll get views from São Jorge Castle, taste pastéis de nata where they were born, and maybe even sneak in a few hours of remote work (we see you, nomads).
This is your no-stress, high-reward Lisbon** itinerary**—built to help you explore, unwind, and actually enjoy your days in Lisbon. Let's go see why everyone wants to visit Lisbon.
Start your first of 2 days in Lisbon with a sunrise that sets the tone. Head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, one of the city's best-kept hidden gems. It’s less crowded than other lookouts and gives you front-row seats to watch Lisbon wake up—with the Tagus River glowing below and the rooftops of Alfama stretching out like a postcard.
From there, stroll down the narrow cobblestone streets of Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood and arguably its soul. This is where you feel Lisbon: laundry flapping overhead, fado music leaking out of windows, and tiled façades catching the morning light.
For breakfast and a quick Wi-Fi check-in, stop at Fábrica Coffee Roasters near Baixa. This specialty coffee shop serves up flat whites and batch brews that rival anything you’d find in Berlin or Melbourne. A pastry and coffee will run you around €5–7—add a pastel de nata if you know what’s good for you (hint: you do).
From there, walk up to São Jorge Castle, perched high above the city. It’s one of Lisbon’s most iconic tourist attractions, and yes, it’s worth it—especially early, before the crowds hit. The views are unbeatable, and the castle itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 11th century. Pro tip: buy tickets online to skip the line, or grab a combo pass that includes access to other sites.
If you're planning your Lisbon itinerary with efficiency in mind, take note: Alfama is best explored on foot. But if you're saving steps or time, public transportation (tram 28, especially) connects you easily to the rest of the city. And here’s a stat for your inner planner: Lisbon is home to 17 viewpoints, but Alfama alone boasts 4 of the best. You’ll knock out two before noon.
This is the perfect start to your days in Lisbon—a little wonder, a little caffeine, and a whole lot of charm in just a few hours.
You’ve done sunrise and castle views—now it’s time to dive into central Lisbon, where history, architecture, and people-watching take center stage. You’re not just exploring Lisbon—you’re walking through its postcard.
This pedestrian street is the spine of Baixa and a total tourist hotspot—but in the best way. Street performers, mosaic-tiled sidewalks, and grand 18th-century buildings line the way. Yes, it’s busy, but the vibe is worth soaking in.
At the end of Rua Augusta, pass under the iconic Rua Augusta Arch and boom—you’re in Commerce Square, facing the wide-open Tagus River. It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful waterfront plazas, perfect for sun, sea breeze, and a great wide-angle shot.
Don’t miss:
Climbing the Santa Justa Lift for sky-high views of Lisbon’s seven hills. Over 1.5 million people ride the Santa Justa Lift every year, making it one of the most popular attractions in any Lisbon itinerary. It’s about the ride, the engineering, and the very Lisbon-ness of standing in an elevator that looks like it came from a steampunk novel.
A quick stop in the Lisbon Cathedral for some romanesque architecture
Grabbing a scoop at Gelato Davvero (€3.50 for two flavors, and yes, the pistachio is worth it)
Stopping by Conserveira de Lisboa, a sardine shop that looks like a movie set
If you're serious about your 2 days in Lisbon, this thing pays for itself.
Here’s what it covers:
Free rides on all public transportation (yes, including the famous tram 28)
Free or discounted access to 39 attractions and museums
Includes the Santa Justa Lift and several ferry routes
Cost:
€22 for 24h
€37 for 48h
Stat to keep in mind: Lisbon’s public transit system covers over 800km of routes, making it super efficient for short stays. And the average cost of three attraction entries + two tram rides easily tops €30 without the card.
You're surrounded by tourist menus and overpriced sandwiches—don’t fall for it. If you are after traditional portuguese cuisine for the full experience, here's where locals actually eat near Baixa:
Basílio – Modern brunch spot tucked away on a side street. Get the smoked salmon toast (€9) or a big salad if you’re keeping it light.
Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau – It’s touristy, sure, but the codfish cake stuffed with Serra da Estrela cheese is worth the hype (€5). Perfect if you want to try more traditional portuguese dishes.
Martinho da Arcada – Oldest café in Lisbon (opened in 1782) and still charming. Grab a bica (espresso) and pastel for under €5, or stay for the set lunch menu (~€15).
Pro tip: Save your energy by using Google Maps to pin everything beforehand. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not wandering in circles on those steep hills.
This is the part of your days in Lisbon where you feel the city’s pulse—busy, grand, a little chaotic, but endlessly photogenic.
Hop on Tram 15 from the city center (or city centre, for our UK friends) and head west to Belém—a riverside neighborhood that feels like a mini day trip but is just 25 minutes away. Turns out there's more to it than just the famous Belém Tower. If you only have a couple of days in Lisbon, this is where you get the big hitters without wasting time.
Belém is stacked with sights—some literally world-class:
Belém Tower – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century fortress once guarded the city. Today, it’s an Instagram magnet with beautiful sea views. You can explore the outsides of the tower for free or get the Belém Tower admission ticket to go inside, at around €15 for a standard ticket.
National Archaeological Museum – Often skipped, but worth a look if you’re into mummies, Roman artifacts, or just need a break from the sun. (€5 or included in combo tickets)
National Coach Museum – Surprisingly fascinating, even if you’re not into carriages. It houses one of the world’s richest collections of royal coaches—some of them absolutely over the top. (€8 entrance)
Pro tip: If you're short on time, admire the monastery and tower from the outside. The architecture alone makes the visit worth it. But if you can spare an hour, the National Coach Museum is a cool detour that rarely makes it onto typical days in Lisbon checklists.
Yes, you’ve already had one. No, this isn’t the same.
Pastéis de Belém is the place. It’s been baking the original pastel de nata since 1837, using a secret recipe from the monastery next door.
Expect a line. It moves fast.
Eat it warm, with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
Price: €1.40 each. Yes, you’ll want more than one.
Insider tip: Grab a table inside and peek through the glass at the pastry-making action.
Once you’re sugared up, take a walk through Belém’s charming streets. Everything’s a bit slower here. You’ll pass bookshops, shaded plazas, and some of Lisbon’s best riverfront paths.
If you’re hungry for more than pastries, check out:
O Prado – A fresh, farm-to-table spot using local ingredients. Small plates start at €9.
Enoteca de Belém – Wine bar meets bistro. Quiet garden patio. Perfect for a light lunch or early glass of Portuguese wines.
Pão Pão Queijo Queijo – Fast, cheap, and wildly popular for kebab-style sandwiches. (€5–7)
It’s not packed with great restaurants, but these few make up for it in quality and vibe.
Got work to check in on? Try Royal Rawness, a small coffee shop tucked near the gardens, with strong espresso and surprisingly good Wi-Fi.
Or just lay low on the riverfront lawn near the Padrão dos Descobrimentos and watch the sailboats drift by.
Belém is proof that when you visit Lisbon, you don’t need to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere completely new.
As the sun dips, Lisbon changes gears. Day turns into something electric—and nowhere captures that shift better than Bairro Alto. If you only have a few days in Lisbon, an evening here is non-negotiable. This hilltop neighborhood is where old-world charm meets modern nightlife, where tiled façades echo with fado, and where your best memories often come from a wrong turn down the right alley.
Kick things off at Park Rooftop—literally on top of a parking garage. Hidden behind an unmarked door near the Baixa-Chiado metro station, this bar is one of Lisbon’s best roof terrace hidden gems. It serves strong cocktails, chill beats, and an unbeatable view over the famous viewpoints and red rooftop bars.
Get there by 6:30 PM to snag a seat.
Cocktails run €10–12, beers around €5.
Pro tip: Order a gin & tonic and just stay awhile.
After drinks, it’s time to explore Bairro Alto on foot. This part of central Lisbon is all about winding streets, dim lighting, and surprises around every corner. While it’s known for bars, it also hides some seriously solid Lisbon restaurants.
Here are a few picks that are worth visiting:
Tasca do Chico – One of the best-known fado taverns. It’s tiny, always full, and 100% authentic. Get there early or prepare to wait. Budget: €15–20 pp.
Taberna da Rua das Flores – A little further down toward Chiado, but well worth the stroll. Seasonal Portuguese small plates with a creative twist. Book ahead. Plates ~€8–12.
Cantinho do Bem Estar – No frills, all flavor. A local favorite for salt cod and vinho verde. Dinner for two under €30.
The Bairro Alto neighborhood is more than a tourist attraction—it’s a mood. You’ll hear fado drifting from a tavern, reggaeton bumping from a dive bar, and the clink of glasses on narrow balconies. It’s one of the city’s most famous sights after dark, and you don’t need a plan to enjoy it.
Some tips for exploring Lisbon at night:
Most bars don’t get busy until after 10 PM.
Street drinking is common but respectful—grab a drink from a kiosk and wander.
Bairro Alto sits uphill, so wear comfy shoes (again).
Lisbon isn’t just a vibrant city by day—it shines even brighter at night. This part of your Lisbon itinerary is less about sightseeing and more about feeling the place. Whether it’s your first or fifth time to visit Lisbon, Bairro Alto always delivers.
If Day 1 was all about the classics, Day 2 starts with a shot of Lisbon’s cool factor. Tucked under the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, LX Factory is what happens when you give an old industrial site to artists, designers, and entrepreneurs—and just let them play.
It’s gritty, it’s gorgeous, and it’s buzzing with creative energy. If you're building a Portugal itinerary that balances work and wander, this spot earns its place.
You’ve only got 2 days in Lisbon, but that doesn’t mean your inbox disappears. Thankfully, LX Factory makes being productive feel like part of the trip.
Find a table at Wish Slow Coffee House, a laid-back coffee shop tucked inside a concept store. It’s got good Wi-Fi, a quiet vibe in the mornings, and some of the best banana bread in town.
Flat white: €3
Toast with ricotta, honey & walnuts: €5
Power outlet access: limited, come charged
Want a more structured co-working option? NOW_Beato is just a 10-minute e-scooter ride away and offers day passes (~€15), if you’re feeling ambitious.
After checking off your to-dos, it’s time to reward yourself. Luckily, LX Factory is packed with hidden gems and best restaurants for a long, lazy brunch or early lunch.
Top picks include:
Café na Fábrica – Great eggs benedict, friendly staff, leafy courtyard. Brunch set: ~€14
The Therapist – Superfood bowls, sourdough toasts, adaptogenic lattes. Vibe: health-conscious but delicious
1300 Taberna – A modern Portuguese spot with industrial flair. Fancier lunch option. Mains ~€16–20
Don’t miss Ler Devagar, the iconic bookstore with its flying bike sculpture and wrap-around shelves. Even if you’re not in the market for a novel, it’s worth a slow wander.
After LX, take the long route back toward the city. Lisbon’s colorful buildings, hilly streets, and tiled corners make every walk an experience. You can hop a scooter, grab a tram, or just follow your feet.
On the way, make a quick detour to Pink Street in Cais do Sodré. It’s one of Lisbon’s most photographed alleys, painted head-to-toe in—you guessed it—bright pink. It’s quiet in the morning, and a great spot to snap a photo before the crowds roll in.
Fun fact: Lisbon has over 1,000 registered street art works, and many of the most impressive are scattered throughout Alcântara and around LX Factory. Translation? Take your eyes off of google maps and look up—you never know when you’ll stumble on your new favorite mural.
This morning in LX is proof that even with just a couple of days in Lisbon, you don’t have to choose between creativity and calm. You can have both.
After your LX Factory morning, head back toward the heart of the Portuguese capital. Chiado is where tradition and trend collide—literature, art, tile-covered facades, and fashion boutiques all within a short walk of each other. If you only have two days in Lisbon, this is the cultural core you don’t want to miss.
Let’s start with a superlative: Chiado is home to the world's oldest bookstore, Livraria Bertrand, open since 1732. Pop in, breathe in the paper smell, and grab a slim Portuguese novel or locally illustrated notebook as a souvenir.
From there, take the scenic route through narrow streets to reach the Santa Justa Lift. You may have already spotted it the day before, but now’s your chance to ride it. Built in 1902 and designed by a student of Eiffel, this iron beauty connects Baixa to Carmo Square with full-on skyline views.
Top sights within a few blocks:
Rossio Square – The city’s main meeting point since the Middle Ages. Stop to check out the wave-pattern cobblestones and the statue of Dom Pedro IV.
National Pantheon – Just east of Chiado, if you're up for the walk or a tram ride. Construction began in the 17th century, but it took nearly 300 years to finish. Now, the National Pantheon is one of the most serene monuments in the city, home to tombs of national icons like Amália Rodrigues and Vasco da Gama.
Palácio Nacional da Ajuda (National Palace) – A bit farther out, but doable if you’re ambitious. This neoclassical palace was meant to house royalty but ended up as a museum of opulence. Mornings are best for beating the bus tours.
Need a breather? Skip the touristy cafés and head to Café no Chiado, just behind the museum of contemporary art. Hidden from the main drag, it has a charming patio, great espresso (€1.50), and a quiet crowd.
Or, if you’re craving something sweet, duck into Alcôa—a pastry shop known for regional convent sweets. The pastel de Tentúgal or pão de ló here are excellent companions to a mid-walk coffee.
If you’re ready for something more substantial, Chiado has some of the most reliable spots in town:
Sea Me – A modern seafood tavern where sushi meets bacalhau. Expect to pay €20–25 per person. Worth it.
Cervejaria Trindade – Lisbon’s oldest beer hall, operating inside a former monastery. Try the grilled cod or pica-pau with a house beer. Mains ~€14–18.
Prado Mercearia – A chic deli offering sandwiches and local produce if you want something lighter. Sandwiches from €8.
If you’ve only got two days in Lisbon, Chiado lets you walk through centuries in an afternoon—and maybe grab a book or two along the way.
If you’re feeling ambitious on your second day, here’s a move that adds serious magic to your Lisbon itinerary—a quick day trip to Sintra. Yes, it’s a squeeze. But yes, it’s worth it.
Trains to Sintra leave every 20–30 minutes from Rossio Square Station in the city center, and the ride takes just under 40 minutes. Tickets cost about €5 round trip, and no need to book ahead—just show up, buy at the station, and go.
Once you arrive, head straight to Pena Palace, Sintra’s crown jewel. The palace looks like something a Disney architect might design after a bottle of vinho verde—turrets, bold colors, tilework, the works. It’s perched high above the town and surrounded by forested gardens, making it one of Portugal’s most visually stunning locations.
Pena Palace draws over 2 million visitors a year, making it one of Portugal’s top day trip destinations. But even with the crowds, it still feels like a fairytale—especially if you go mid-week or earlier in the day.
To skip the dreaded ticket line, buy your entrance online in advance. You’ll save time (and possibly your patience). Entry is €14 for adults, and it includes access to both the palace interior and the park.
Pena isn’t exactly within walking distance from the train station. You’ll need to hop on a shuttle (bus 434) or grab a tuk-tuk. The tuk-tuk is a bit pricier (~€10–15), but more fun and gets you there faster, especially if lines are long at the bus stop.
Inside, allow at least 90 minutes to wander through the palace rooms, gardens, and terraces. Pena is one of those places where photos don’t quite capture the vibe—you need to breathe in the mist, touch the stone, and get lost in the woods to feel it.
Sintra’s rich history is layered into every corner—from Moorish castles to 19th-century mansions. If you have extra time or skip the palace interior, the Moorish Castle is a beautiful hike and offers panoramic views back over Lisbon.
Most spots near the palace and town center are classic tourist traps—expensive, bland, and packed. But a few local favorites still hold their ground:
Tascantiga – Just behind the Moorish Castle. Cozy tavern vibes, generous portions. Try the octopus salad and the local red. Mains ~€12–16.
Cantinho Gourmet – A modern bistro with great vegetarian options and a solid wine list.
Piriquita – Grab a Travesseiro de Sintra here—a warm, almondy puff pastry that hits different after a hilly hike. €1.60 well spent.
Catch a late-afternoon train back to Lisbon—aim for around 5:00–5:30 PM to avoid rush hour. The ride is easy, and you’ll be back in the city center in time to freshen up before dinner.
If you’re only squeezing in 2 days in Lisbon, a Sintra sprint isn’t mandatory. But if you make the time, it’ll be the scene-stealer of your trip.
You’ve climbed hills, dodged tourist traps, maybe even tackled a day trip to Sintra. Now it’s time to ease into the final stretch of your 2 days in Lisbon—slow, scenic, and well-fed.
Start with a walk along the riverfront promenade at Cais do Sodré. It’s a short walk from Chiado or Bairro Alto and totally transforms at sunset. Locals and travelers gather by the water, street musicians set the tone, and the Lisbon itinerary winds down with golden light and sea breeze.
For a scenic sundowner, head to Javá Rooftop—a newer rooftop bar tucked above the riverfront. It’s quieter than the tourist-packed ones in Bairro Alto and has killer views of the 25 de Abril Bridge. Cocktails are €10–12, and the vibe is chill-luxe without being snobby.
Yes, it’s famous. Yes, it’s busy. But Mercado da Ribeira—aka Time Out Market—is worth it. Over 40 food stalls curated by Lisbon’s top chefs make this the ultimate one-stop shop for delicious food and people-watching.
Some local favorites:
O Prego da Peixaria – For modern takes on the traditional prego (steak sandwich). Try the tuna version.
Marlene Vieira – Upscale seafood with Portuguese roots. Octopus salad is a standout.
Asian Lab – Unexpectedly great ramen and curries if you're craving spice.
Most dishes range from €8–15, and you can mix and match. It’s casual, social, and perfect for your last night.
If crowds aren’t your thing, Cais do Sodré and its nearby streets are packed with other restaurants that deliver.
Taberna Tosca – Small plates and great vinho verde on a leafy terrace. Local favorite.
Estrela da Bica – Just up the hill, cozy and creative Portuguese cuisine.
Brilhante – Fancy comfort food with a vintage train station aesthetic. More upscale (€25–30 per person), but a great treat-yourself option.
Cap off your night with an espresso at Hello, Kristof or Copenhagen Coffee Lab—both within walking distance and still open late. Or do it the local way: grab a bica from a kiosk and sip it by the water.
And just a note: while Avenida da Liberdade isn’t right here, it’s only a 20-minute walk or quick metro ride away if you want to end your night with a stroll under the lights of Lisbon’s grandest boulevard—lined with designer shops, art galleries, and historic cafés.
Lisbon has more restaurants per capita than any other city in Portugal, which means your chances of stumbling on some of the best restaurants in the country—without even trying—are unusually high.
If your Lisbon itinerary had a slow clap moment, this would be it. Sunset, snacks, and streets that glow after dark. Congrats! You made the most of 2 days in Lisbon.
Lisbon’s beauty comes with a price: hills. Lots of them. If you only have 2 days in Lisbon, you don’t want to waste time sweating your way uphill or stuck trying to figure out which tram still runs on weekends. Here's how to keep things moving smoothly—without missing the good stuff.
For travelers bouncing between landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery, Jorge Castle, and the Oceanário de Lisboa, the 24-hour public transport pass is your best friend. It costs €6.80 and covers:
Metro
Buses and trams (yes, including the iconic Tram 28)
Elevators like Santa Justa
Trains to nearby Pink Street spots or even to Sintra (if upgraded to a combined pass)
Available at metro stations and valid from the first tap. It easily pays for itself after 3–4 rides.
Ubers are cheap by European standards—€3–8 for most central routes—and save time on those steep climbs (hello, Miradouro de Santa Catarina). Tuk-tuks are more expensive (€20–30 for a short tour), but fun and surprisingly efficient for navigating the city’s medieval core.
Walking is still king when exploring neighborhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto. Just wear real shoes. Those miradouros (viewpoints) like Miradouro de Santa Luzia are glorious, but the narrow streets to get there? Not so much in flip-flops.
Grab a local SIM from Vodafone or MEO (€10 for 5GB) if you're staying longer or need reliable maps. For short-term visits, pocket Wi-Fi rentals are available at the airport and major hotels. Handy if you're navigating with Google Maps, translating menus, or trying to find the exact location of your next pastel de nata.
If you're trying to squeeze in a bite between sights:
Between Jorge Castle and the Lisbon Cathedral: Stop by Pois Café for a quiet, plant-filled space and solid toasts (€6–8).
On your way down from Miradouro de Santa Luzia: Grab a pastel de nata at Pastelaria Alfama Doce—often overlooked, always fresh.
Heading toward Oceanário de Lisboa: The waterfront at Parque das Nações has a few decent options, but Honest Greens stands out for healthy bowls under €12.
Lisbon may be built on seven hills, but with the right mix of metros, trams, and Uber hacks, you’ll move through it like a local—with energy left over for sunset cocktails. You’ve only got 2 days in Lisbon—don’t waste them standing in line or walking in circles.
You don’t need deep pockets to enjoy 2 days in Lisbon—just a little planning and a taste for delicious food over fancy frills. Here’s a realistic look at what you’ll spend without missing out.
A centrally located, remote-work-friendly flat will run you between €60–120 per night, depending on the season. That usually gets you Wi-Fi, a desk, and walking distance to top spots like Alfama, Chiado, and Pink Street.
Want something cheaper? Consider shared co-living spaces in neighborhoods like Intendente or Graça. You’ll find rooms for €40–60 a night, plus community vibes.
Lisbon is heaven for foodies on a budget. You can eat really well without breaking the bank:
Coffee & pastel de nata: €4–5 total (and yes, you’ll want one every day)
Lunch menus (prato do dia): €8–12, usually includes soup, main, drink, and sometimes dessert
Dinner at a casual restaurant: €12–18 pp
Time Out Market or food courts: €15–20 depending on how hungry/curious you are
Tip: Avoid the places with laminated menus and photos outside. Check if locals are eating there, then it’s probably solid.
Grab the Lisbon Card (€22–24 for 24h, €37–40 for 48h). It gives you free public transport and access to major sights like Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, the Santa Justa Lift, and more.
Without it, expect to spend:
€1.65 per metro/tram ride
€6–10 per museum or attraction
€3–8 per Uber within the city
All in, you’re looking at around €30 total for transport and entry fees with the Lisbon Card.
According to Lisbon’s tourism board, travelers staying just 48 hours still spend an average of €190–250 total—proof that you don’t need luxury prices to live like a local. From tiled streets to scenic sips, 2 days in Lisbon can be both affordable and unforgettable.
Lisbon doesn’t ask for much—just your full attention for a couple of days. In 2 days in Lisbon, you’ve climbed castles, tasted pastel de nata, skipped tourist traps, and maybe even squeezed in a day trip to Sintra. You’ve walked narrow streets, sipped at rooftops, and watched the sun set over the Tagus like it was your job.
And if you’re working remotely? Lisbon gets it. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, strong coffee on every corner, and Wi-Fi that actually works, it’s no wonder more digital nomads are calling it their home base.
This guide gave you the best of both: freedom to roam, and space to focus. All that’s left now? A flat with a standing desk and views to match.
Ready for your 48-hour Lisbon sprint?
Book your RentRemote base today.
, lisbon
, lisbon
, lisbon
Discover the top activities and attractions in Lisbon this April. From cultural events to scenic spots, find your perfect spring adventure. Read more!
Deciding between Lisbon and Porto? Explore the unique charms of each city to find your ideal Portuguese getaway. Read more to discover your perfect match!
March is the perfect month to visit Lisbon. Discover all the activities, food, and attractions that are waiting for you in the Portuguese capital.
