Discover the best things to do in Lisbon in just 3 days. From iconic sights to local flavors, plan your perfect getaway. Read more to get started!
Planning what to do in Lisbon, Portugal in 3 days? You’re in for a treat.
Lisbon’s a mix of sunlit streets, pastel trams and thriving coworking spots. You’ll cover top sights in a day trip to Alfama and Belém, then carve out work breaks at cafés. In this 3 days in Lisbon guide, we’ll focus on roaming the city center, sampling custard tarts, and catching sunset views.
This Lisbon itinerary packs must-sees, hidden gems, day trip ideas, and practical hacks so you can soak up Portugal's capital city vibe without missing an email. Ready to zip through cobblestone alleys, sip local wine and tick off your Lisbon bucket list? Let’s dive in.
We'll kick off your Lisbon itinerary in the historic Alfama, the oldest bairro in central lisbon. Think narrow lanes, spray-painted azulejos and a pulse that’s half medieval, half modern café culture. It’s the perfect day trip zone: you’ll blend classic sightseeing with local haunts and still clock in a few work emails between stops.
Your first day in this new city starts in Alfama, Lisbon's oldest bairro. Think of it as a living museum: Moorish foundations peek out beneath colorful azulejos, and laundry lines stretch above winding alleys. To reach the heart of the historic Alfama district, hop on Tram 28 at Martim Moniz station (Google Maps will point you to the nearest metro stations) and enjoy a 15-minute ride past steep hills and pastel façades.
Follow the signs to Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge castle), a 10-minute uphill stroll or quick tuk-tuk hop. Allocate about 1.5 hours here: you’ll wander ramparts with 360° views of red rooftops and the Tagus, explore excavated Moorish houses, and brush up on Portuguese history with the free audio guide. By late morning, you’ll be ready to descend into Baixa for lunch.
For a local bite, duck into Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto (an 8-minute walk). Order their garlic-butter mushrooms, a crisp pastel de nata, and a glass of white Vinho Verde. If you’re in the mood for something more ornate, Casa do Alentejo—hidden behind an unmarked doorway near Rossio Square—serves an almond-pistachio pastel de nata alongside hearty açorda in a Moorish-style courtyard. Both spots are a short walk from the castle and are some of the best restaurants in the Portuguese capital.
In the afternoon, weave back to the Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral). Its fortress-like façade gives way to a Gothic nave, an intimate cloister garden, and the Chapel of Saint Vincent lined with ancient tiles. Spend 30–45 minutes soaking it all in, then follow narrow, gently stepped lanes uphill for about five minutes to Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Here, bougainvillea frames tiled benches depicting local scenes, and you get that postcard view of Alfama spilling down to the river.
As evening falls, make a reservation at Clube de Fado or Parreirinha de Alfama—both start around 8 pm, so book ahead to grab a front-row table. Once seated, you’ll see a guitarist and viola player settle in before the fadista takes the mic. Traditional fado music is a mix of classic and improvised verses about love, loss and city life—no chatter, no cameras during songs. Order a glass of white Vinho Verde or red Douro wine (they pair perfectly) and lean in.
If you’re short on time, you can opt for the early set and still soak up the raw emotion that’s made fado Portugal’s capital city tradition.
And that's a wrap on day 1 of your Lisbon itinerary. Enjoy a good night sleep and get some rest. Tomorrow is packed with more activities!
Day two of your Lisbon itinerary balances sugar-fueled sightseeing, riverside coworking, and modern art vibes. Today you’ll step out of the buzzing city center and explore Belém, home to legendary pastries, historic landmarks, and scenic work spots along the Tagus River.
Your first stop is the iconic bakery, Pastéis de Belém. Sure, you’ve tasted a pastel de nata before, but here’s where the original recipe was born—back in 1837. Roughly 20,000 tarts are baked here daily. Lines build early, but locals have a hack: ignore the takeaway queue and grab a table inside. You’ll get served quicker (with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar included). Pair your pastéis de nata with a strong espresso before heading out.
After breakfast, take a short walk (about five minutes) or the public transport to the stunning Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its intricately carved stone arches and vaulted ceilings. It’s a quick dive into Portugal’s Age of Discovery, so budget around 90 minutes to soak it all in. Another 10-minute stroll brings you to Torre de Belém, once Lisbon’s gateway to the Atlantic ocean, now the perfect backdrop for your travel snaps.
Grab lunch treats at Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market). Just hop on Tram 15 or an Uber—both take you there in a few hours... just kidding, it’s really only 10 minutes by public transportation from Belém. Pick classic portuguese dishes from top local chefs—think codfish croquettes, grilled octopus salad, or a hearty bifana sandwich.
Spread out by the riverside and enjoy views of the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge—Lisbon’s nod to San Francisco.
Ready to clock in a bit of work? Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery in Cais do Sodré is a lovely place and a digital-nomad favorite. Reliable Wi-Fi, outlets at every table, and excellent coffee—what more do you need? Another option is Café da Garagem, tucked near Alfama. Bonus points: the panoramic windows looking out over Lisbon are so good, you might actually enjoy those emails.
Wrap up your workday at LX Factory, Lisbon’s hip creative hub housed in a converted industrial site. Wander lanes filled with vibrant street art, indie shops, and galleries. Then grab a cold brew (or craft beer, if that's your choice) at Rio Maravilha, a rooftop bar overlooking the river and the sunset. With a thriving community and endless options, LX Factory easily tops local lists for best after-work hangouts and some of Lisbon’s best restaurants.
If you have an extra day (beyond your 3 days in Lisbon), consider a quick day trip to Sintra. A short train ride away, Sintra feels worlds apart—home to whimsical palaces like Pena Palace, Moorish Castle and Quinta da Regaleira, castles that seem plucked from fairytales. A walking tour around these colorful hillsides is the perfect contrast to Lisbon’s urban energy. If you are visiting Sintra, take into consideration the journey takes about an hour by direct train.
To recap quickly:
Must-Eat: Pastéis de Belém
Must-See: Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO world heritage site)
Must-Work: Copenhagen Coffee Lab or Café da Garagem
Must-Relax: LX Factory rooftop drinks
In short, Day 2 mixes Lisbon’s rich history with a splash of modern creativity—exactly how you’d want to experience this fascinating city.
On your final day of your 3 days in Lisbon, it's time to check out the city's modern side, blended perfectly with local flavor. Today’s Lisbon itinerary covers a vibrant mix of futuristic neighborhoods, artsy alleyways, quirky street art and one of the best seafood dinners in continental Europe.
Here's how your last day in the Portuguese capital should roll.
Kick off the morning in Parque das Nações, Lisbon’s futuristic district created for Expo '98. Catch the red metro line to Oriente—arguably Lisbon's most striking modern architecture among metro stations, designed by Santiago Calatrava. From here, it's an easy five-minute walk to the famous Oceanário de Lisboa, one of Europe's largest aquariums, home to over 500 marine species and visited by around one million people yearly.
After your underwater adventure, ride the Telecabine cable car. You’ll glide along the Tagus River, capturing unbeatable views stretching from the sweeping Vasco da Gama Bridge down the river toward Lisbon’s historic skyline. The cable car ride lasts about 10 minutes and makes for perfect panoramic shots.
Head back toward the city center for brunch at Zenith Brunch & Cocktails, close to Avenida da Liberdade. This local favorite dishes out excellent smoothie bowls and a fluffy Spanish omelet—ideal fuel for an afternoon spent wandering.
After brunch, make your way into Lisbon’s bohemian heart: Bairro Alto. Famous for nightlife, daytime Bairro Alto reveals another personality altogether, filled with charming indie boutiques, art galleries and some of the city's best street art. You can get there by public transport and then spend your afternoon exploring the colorful winding cobblestone streets and browsing boutiques like Cork & Co or Ás de Espadas. For street art lovers, joining a local-led walking tour (such as Lisbon Street Art Tours) reveals hidden murals by renowned Portuguese artists like Bordalo II and Vhils.
As the day winds down, catch a sailboat cruise beneath the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril. Watching the city skyline soften in golden hues is a highlight. You'll spot landmarks like the towering Santuário de Cristo Rei statue, Lisbon's version of Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, Padrão dos descobrimentos, and the elegant Arco da Rua Augusta as you drift gently along the Tagus. Tagus Cruises and Lisbon by Boat both offer easy online booking and short cruises lasting about two hours—perfect timing before dinner.
End your Lisbon adventure at Monte Mar Lisboa near Cais do Sodré, a delightful small restaurant beloved by locals for its outstanding grilled prawns and sweeping river views. It’s casually elegant— and surprisingly affordable. Book ahead to secure your spot and give yourself exactly a few hours to soak in the experience and reflect on your incredible three-day journey.
If this isn't your first time visiting Lisbon, and you want to skip the tourist attractions, here are some other things you can consider adding to your Portugal itinerary:
Explore Lisbon’s underrated National Tile Museum, which beautifully showcases Portuguese ceramic history and craftsmanship.
Spend an afternoon at Jardim da Estrela, one of Lisbon’s prettiest parks—perfect for picnics or people-watching.
Visit the Gulbenkian Museum to see one of Europe's finest private art collections, set in peaceful, garden-lined grounds ideal for relaxation or remote working.
Day three wraps your Lisbon experience neatly, offering modern flair, vibrant street culture, and unbeatable seafood. Exactly what you’d want from your final day visiting Lisbon—leaving you eager for the next adventure.
Sometimes even the most detailed Lisbon itinerary can go sideways—maybe your legs need a rest, or you just want to wander somewhere different. If your original plan hits a snag (or you're craving something a tiny bit offbeat), here are a few extra local-approved spots and activities you can easily slot into your 3 days in Lisbon.
Local Eats at Mercado de Campo de Ourique
A local alternative, Mercado de Campo de Ourique offers a smaller, neighborhood vibe. You'll find tasty Portuguese snacks, fresh seafood, and yes—excellent pastéis de nata without touristy queues.
Hidden History at Carmo Convent
This former convent, partially destroyed in Lisbon’s 1755 earthquake, stands dramatically roofless. It's right in central Lisbon and offers a quick dive into history without wandering far from the major sights. Plus, it’s photogenic enough to spruce up your Instagram.
Beach Break: Costa da Caparica
If you're a huge fan of surfing or simply relaxing by the ocean, Lisbon has some surprisingly beautiful beaches. Hop on a quick bus ride (about 30 minutes via public transportation) to Costa da Caparica. Sun, surf, and seafood huts line the shore—perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Visiting Sintra: Fairy-Tale Day Trip
A quick detour from your Lisbon itinerary, Sintra is an easy, dreamy day trip from the city. From Rossio Train station, the journey takes just 40 minutes. Once there, join a walking tour or explore solo. Don’t miss colorful Pena Palace perched atop the hills, or the mysterious gardens and hidden tunnels of Quinta da Regaleira. Sintra’s lush scenery, castles, and narrow streets add an enchanting twist to any Portugal itinerary.
Lisbon Vintage Tram Tour
Sure, Tram 28 is legendary, but if crowds aren't your jam, Tram 12 offers similar views through Alfama with fewer tourists elbowing for space. A quick, relaxed way to sightsee—and infinitely easier on the nerves.
Each option adds a little extra flavor to your Lisbon stay, ensuring you’ll experience the city like a savvy local—flexibly, and without stress.
Your first trip to Lisbon? Here’s a quick survival kit to skip rookie mistakes, keep your inbox happy, and dive deeper into the local scene.
Lisboa Card is the winner here. It gives unlimited access to public transport—metro, trams, buses—plus discounts (or free entry!) to top sights. Grab it online or at the tourism office. If you’re mostly working remotely and only exploring a surrounding area or two, the Viva Viagem reloadable card is cheaper and covers your basics.
SIM Cards: Vodafone Portugal or MEO offer cheap, high-speed data SIMs (grab at Lisbon Airport arrivals hall or any convenience store). Expect €15-20 for about 10GB—enough for most remote tasks.
Coworking Passes: Outsite Lisbon or Heden in Chiado are popular, laptop-friendly spots with daily or weekly passes—perfect for a productivity boost.
For popular stops on your Lisbon itinerary like Belém or Sintra, book tickets online ahead—even if it’s just one day before. You'll skip the worst lines and save valuable time for eating your way through the city’s best restaurants in neighborhoods like Bairro Alto.
Book centrally located, digital nomad-friendly places, like cozy bedroom apartments in Chiado, Bairro Alto, or Alfama. RentRemote and other local platforms often offer better rates and Wi-Fi than standard hotels.
If you're taking a day trip out of town, leave early. Tourist buses usually roll in around 10 am—beat them and have your spot picked at the café by the time they show up.
Locals appreciate a friendly effort, even if your Portuguese is sketchy:
Olá (Hello)
Bom dia / Boa tarde (Good morning / Good afternoon)
Obrigado/Obrigada (Thank you)
Por favor (Please)
Onde fica...? (Where is...?)
Tem Wi-Fi? (Got Wi-Fi?)
You don’t need fluency—just a smile and a bit of charm.
These hacks will help keep your Lisbon stay simple, smart, and fun—exactly how digital nomads roll.
Remote working is Lisbon’s jam, and the city offers plenty of spots where good Wi-Fi meets great coffee. Here are some local-approved favorites to keep your inbox at zero and your vibes high during your Lisbon itinerary:
1. Copenhagen Coffee Lab (Alfama)
This Danish-inspired café serves up excellent flat whites and cinnamon buns. It’s bright, airy, and perfect for deep-focus work. Plenty of power outlets and strong Wi-Fi mean you won’t rush your tasks—or your pastry.
2. Second Home Lisboa (Cais do Sodré)
Think of it as a jungle meets coworking space: lush greenery, ergonomic chairs, and light-filled spaces. Popular with Lisbon’s creative freelancers, it’s the spot if you need inspiration (or just a cool background for Zoom calls). You can grab a daily pass easily online.
3. Dear Breakfast (Chiado)
Just steps from Rua Augusta, Dear Breakfast is cozy, charming, and does excellent brunches all day. Avocado toast? Check. Smooth Wi-Fi? Double-check. Come early to claim a table and settle in.
4. Outsite Cowork Café (Cais do Sodré)
One of Lisbon’s friendliest spots for digital nomads. Their spacious setup includes comfy chairs, big desks, and lots of natural light. After work, grab a craft beer or join their evening social events—you’ll quickly find your Lisbon crew.
5. Fabrica Coffee Roasters (Baixa)
If specialty coffee is your fuel, Fabrica is your place. Tucked into Lisbon’s downtown, this café provides a relaxed atmosphere, friendly baristas, and exceptional brews. Seating can be tight, so plan your visit in off-peak hours to enjoy your latte without the rush.
6. The Mill (Bairro Alto)
Australian-inspired, this spot is perfect for an afternoon caffeine recharge after exploring Bairro Alto or returning from a quick day trip to Sintra. Solid Wi-Fi, tasty brunch dishes, and a calm vibe make it a local favorite.
Lisbon’s café scene is friendly, low-key, and built for productivity—and snacks. Pick your spot, plug in, and make the most of your remote work days.
Visiting Lisbon in December is a win: fewer crowds, cozy vibes, and often lower prices compared to the peak summer season. Here’s a realistic cost estimate to help you plan your Lisbon itinerary without breaking the bank.
Prices depend on your comfort level, but Lisbon’s got solid options across the board:
Budget hostels/shared room: €60–90 total (€20–30/night)
Mid-range studio or 1-bedroom apartments (Airbnb): €150–250 total (€50–85/night)
High-end boutique hotel: €300–600 total (€100–200/night)
Tip: Book in Alfama, Bairro Alto, or near Rua Augusta for walkability.
Lisboa Card (72h): €44.90
Includes public transport (metro, trams, buses) + free entry to several tourist attractions like Jerónimos Monastery and discounts at many others.
Single metro/bus fare: €1.80
Uber/Taxi (short rides): €4–8
Breakfast (café-style): €3–6
Lunch (local spot or market): €8–15
Dinner (mid-range restaurant): €15–25
Dinner (trendy or rooftop spot): €30–50
Craft beer or glass of wine: €3–5
Daily food budget range: €25–50/day, depending on where you eat (and how many pastéis de nata you “accidentally” order).
Fado show (w/ drink or meal): €20–40
Oceanário de Lisboa: €22
Cable car ride (round trip): €9
Day trip to Sintra (train + entry): €20–35
| Budget Level | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Shoestring | €180–230 |
| Mid-Range | €280–450 |
| Treat Yourself | €500–750+ |
| For a digital nomad-friendly setup (mid-range apartment, café working, a few attractions), expect around €350–400 total. |
And honestly? That’s a great deal for 3 jam-packed days in one of Europe’s most charming capital cities.
Three days fly by, especially in Lisbon. But even a quick Lisbon itinerary can give you the best of the city, from historic spots like Castelo de São Jorge to the lively cafés along Rua Augusta. Whether you're spending afternoons strolling through Alfama on a casual walking tour or making an ambitious day trip to Sintra’s dreamy Moorish Castle, you’ll feel right at home here.
Lisbon rewards the curious wanderer who stays flexible—so book one of those cozy bedroom apartments, pack your laptop and walking shoes, and enjoy this compact yet endlessly charming city. It’s got exactly the right mix: history you can touch, views that take your breath away, and pastel de nata good enough to ruin you forever.
By the end of your third day, you’ll have felt the city’s rhythm. You’ll have caught the sunset from a riverside rooftop, laughed with locals in a tiny tasca, and probably learned at least one new Portuguese word besides “obrigado.” Lisbon has a habit of staying with you—long after your plane leaves the runway.
So use this Lisbon itinerary as a jumping-off point, but let the city guide you, too. Leave a morning unscheduled. Get pleasantly lost in Alfama’s maze. Sit an extra hour at that viewpoint near Pena Palace, soaking it all in. Because that’s exactly how Lisbon’s magic works best—slow, easy, and deliciously unpredictable.
Yes! While you won’t see everything, 3 days in Lisbon is the perfect amount of time to cover the highlights, enjoy some local favorites, and even fit in a quick day trip to Sintra or the beach. With a well-planned Lisbon itinerary, you can experience a mix of culture, history, food, and remote work time—without feeling rushed.
A 3-day trip to Lisbon can cost anywhere from €180 to €750, depending on your travel style. Budget travelers can find shared rooms and local eats for less than €60/day. Mid-range travelers booking bedroom apartments and eating out comfortably should plan for €100–150/day. Entry to tourist sites, public transportation, and a Fado show are worth factoring into your budget. December is off-season, so you’ll likely find lower prices and fewer crowds.
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