4-day Lisbon Itinerary: Guide for first time visitors
Are you planning a trip to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal? That’s great news because this city has lots to offer, from delicious pastries and drinks to historic landmarks and vibrant street art. In this 4-day itinerary, I’ll show you the best things to do and see in Lisbon.
Get ready for some mouth-watering pastels de Nata (or de Belem), cherry liquor, the history of world explorers, vibrant street art, the beauty of azulejos (Portuguese tiles), charming streets, steep walks, and much more!
Are 4 days in Lisbon enough?
I recommend staying in Lisbon for at least four days. These four days will give you enough time to explore the different neighbourhoods of Lisbon, visit Belem for a day, and have one extra day to explore more of the city or to go on a day trip to either Sintra or Cascais and Cabo da Roca.
However, you could shorten your trip to Lisbon if you don’t want to do any day trips. But I highly recommend visiting the beautiful places outside the city as well. So, if possible, try to stay in Lisbon for at least 4 days to make the most of your trip!
How to get around?
The best way to explore Lisbon is on foot. Walking allows you to discover more of the city and stumble upon hidden gems you may not have found otherwise.
Another option is to take the bus or tram, but you should be aware that trams can get crowded and attract pickpockets.
If you’re looking to travel further distances, there’s a reliable metro network in Lisbon that you can use. It’s particularly convenient as it has a stop at the airport.
What is the best time to visit Lisbon?
While Lisbon is an all-year-round destination, summer can get hot and crowded, similar to many other southern European destinations. On the other hand, winter can be chilly and rainy. Therefore, the best times to visit Lisbon are in spring and fall. You’ll find fewer crowds, milder weather, and more affordable hotel rates.
Day 1: City center Lisbon
I suggest you start exploring Lisbon’s city centre on the first day of your 4-day itinerary by visiting the neighbourhoods of Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Cais do Sodré. The best way to do this is by starting with a free walking tour and then continuing to explore the rest of the neighbourhoods.
Free walking tour:
A free walking tour is an excellent way to start your first day in Lisbon. It is something that I do in almost every city I visit, and it’s perfect for meeting new people, especially if you’re travelling solo. You can get a first impression of the city and learn about its history, hidden places, and maybe even some restaurants.
The tour I took started at Rossio Square (Praca D PedroIV), and we walked a long way, even stopping to taste some pastel de Nata and cherry liquor along the way!
Rossio Square
Rossio Square, also known as Praça Dom Pedro IV, is one of the main squares in Lisbon. It’s the starting point for most free walking tours. If you join such a tour, you could go to the square earlier and buy some delicious Pasteis de Nata from Fabrica de Nata and enjoy them near the statue or one of the fountains.
Additionally, the Rossio train station is next to the square. It’s a significant station and a beautiful building in the historic city centre of Lisbon. From this station, you can easily take the train to Sintra!
Livraria Bertrand
In the Chiado neighbourhood of Lisbon, you can find the world’s oldest bookstore, which dates back to 1732. Be sure to visit this charming shop on Rua Garrett in a building adorned with Azulejo tiles. The bookstore is quite spacious and has multiple rooms with even a cafe!
Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo
You can capture a typical Lisbon vibe on this picturesque street! Many postcards of the city feature this view. The Ascensor da Bica, a tram that traverses this steep street, completes the picture when it reaches the top.
Elevador de Santa Justa
The Santa Justa Lift is an impressive 45-meter-high construction in the middle of some shopping streets in the Baixa district. It’s the most well-known elevator in Portugal, and it’s an easier and faster way to get from the Baixa district to the higher Largo do Carmo. The cost of taking the elevator, which includes access to the observation deck, is €5.30 for a round trip. However, if you have the Lisboa card, you can enjoy the ride for free!
Don’t forget to look out for the Pelican artwork made of recycled materials and trash from Bordalo II near the foot of the elevator!
Praca do Comércio
This square is one of the highlights of Lisbon and is, in my opinion, the most beautiful square in the city.
On three sides of the square, you’ll find impressive buildings with arches and covered galleries supported by columns. The facades of the buildings are in warm yellow.
The Rua Augusta arch, located between the buildings, marks the beginning of the Rua Augusta shopping street. On the open side of the square, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the river. Praca do Comércio is a popular meeting point for tourists and locals. It’s the perfect place to relax, grab a drink, and people-watch. In the centre of the square, you will find an equestrian statue overlooking the river.
Time out market
Time Out Market, also known as Mercado da Ribeira, is a popular food destination in Lisbon, perfect for enjoying dinner on your first day in the city. With a wide variety of food options available, it might be hard to decide where to eat first. Although the market is not cheap and has become even more expensive recently, the food is delicious, making it a worthwhile experience.
Rua Nova do Carvalho
Rua Nova do Carvalho, or Pink Street, is known for its nightlife. During the day, the street is relatively quiet, adorned only with colourful umbrellas. However, after dinner, the street comes alive with a bustling atmosphere.
Therefore, the best time to visit is at night when you can enjoy a drink at one of the many bars available.
Day 2: East side Lisbon
There’s still so much to discover in Lisbon! On the second day of this 4-day Lisbon Itinerary, we’ll explore more of the East side of Lisbon. So, be prepared for lots of walking and beautiful views!
Castelo de Sao Jorge
The Castelo de Sao Jorge is on the highest hill in Lisbon, and its prominent location allows you to spot it from various spots in the city. This castle is an iconic landmark of Lisbon and attracts many tourists. If you plan to visit, I recommend dedicating a whole morning for exploring the place thoroughly.
Santa Cruz area
This area near Sao Jorge Castle has many narrow streets and alleys to wander and explore. You’ll be delighted by the many picturesque spots!
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
If you haven’t been to Sao Jorge Castle yet and you’re looking for panoramic views of the city, this is the perfect spot! This lookout point, also known as Miradouro, is a popular one! Once you arrive, you will understand why. There’s always something happening here, and it becomes even more atmospheric at night! It’s also an ideal location to watch the sunset!
Lisbon Cathedral
In the Alfama area, you will find the Cathedral of Lisbon. It is the oldest church in the city, and it has survived many earthquakes. Due to this, you can observe various architectural styles in it. Don’t forget to take a few pictures of the building with the trams passing by!
Alfama backstreets
Alfama is one of the most charming areas in Lisbon, in my opinion. The best way to experience it is to get lost and walk around as much as possible. This oldest and calmest part of the city has many alleys, street art, small shops, local restaurants, and some Miradouros.
Feira da Ladra (or Thieves Market)
If you’re a fan of flea markets, then you must visit the market in Campo de Santa Clara on either Tuesday or Saturday. This market offers a range of products, including antiques, gems, souvenirs, handicrafts, and more. You’re sure to find something that catches your eye, but even if you don’t, it’s still a fun experience to browse around!
Museu Nacional do Azulejo
If you are a fan of the beautiful tiles in Lisbon, I highly recommend visiting this museum. Here, you can admire a collection of tiles and learn more about their history and significance.
The museum is a bit further away from the city centre, and the most convenient way to reach it is by taking bus 759. You can catch this bus from Restauradores Square or Santa Apolonia station and stop at the museum.
If you prefer to take the subway, you can go to Santa Apolonia station and walk from there. However, please note that it’s a long walk and not very interesting. So, taking the bus is the better option.
Cemitério do Alto de Sao Joao
If you, like me, enjoy visiting cemeteries in other countries, then you should go to the largest cemetery in Lisbon. This cemetery is the final resting place for many prominent figures.
Some people might find it odd to visit a cemetery, but I find it peaceful and calming. I love the serenity, the silence, and the beauty of the old graves, which often resemble works of art.
The cemetery is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Parque Eduardo VII
This park may not be the most spectacular, but it still offers an impressive view of Lisbon. Although it’s not a must-see attraction, it’s a great place to take a break from all the walking and to relax a little. While you’re there, check out the beautiful Carlos Lopes Pavilion. The park is near Avenida da Liberdade and Marques of Pombal Square.
Mercado Oriental Martim Moniz
If you love Asian food, you must visit this place for dinner on the second day of your Lisbon trip! Some friends I met during the free walking tour recommended this spot, and I’m glad they did.
The restaurant area has food stalls offering a variety of dishes from Thailand to Vietnam, sushi, ramen, dim sum, bubble tea, and more. The food is not only delicious but also reasonably priced.
Location: Praca Martim Moniz.
Day 3: Belem
You cannot skip Belem during a trip to Lisbon, even if it’s just for the original Pasteis de Belem! You can easily spend a whole day here.
How to get there?:
Belem is approximately 8 km away from the city centre of Lisbon. One way to reach Belem is by taking tram number 15 from Praca da Figueira. This journey usually takes around 30 minutes.
Alternatively, you could take the train from Cais do Sodré station that departs for Cascais. In just 7 minutes, you reach Belem.
So what is there to see and do in Belem?
Pasteis de Belem bakery
Belem is the only place where the pastry can be called “Pasteis de Belem”. Everywhere else, it is called “Pasteis de Nata”. The first bakery that created the Pasteis in Belem always has a long queue of people eagerly waiting to taste the deliciousness. If you have a sweet tooth, you will want to spend some time waiting in line, and let me tell you, it is worth it! https://pasteisdebelem.pt/
Jeronimos monastery
This remarkable monastery was constructed in 1502 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vasco da Gama spent the night in Belem before departing for India the following day, and upon his return, construction of the monastery began. A visit to Belem and Lisbon would be incomplete without seeing this monument. It is open from 10 AM to 5 PM every day of the week except for Monday, and the entrance costs 10 euros, but it is free with the Lisboa card.
Belem tower
The Torre de Belem, along with the Jeronimos monastery, is a UNESCO Heritage site. It is the most famous building in Belem and a popular tourist destination. This site is where many world explorers left to discover new places, making it a must-visit location. The tower remains closed on Mondays, and the cost to climb it is 6 euros. It can get very crowded, so it’s best to go as early as possible. If you don’t wish to enter the tower, you can still admire it from the riverside.
Padrao dos Descobrimentos
When you visit the waterside of Belem, you will come across a 52-meter-high monument that celebrates the Portuguese world explorers who started their journey from Belem. This monument is hard to miss as it stands tall on the shoreline. Although it doesn’t take much time to visit, you can explore the viewing platform and exhibition rooms if you have more time. I recommend including this monument in your schedule for the day in Belem.
Day 4: Day trip
On day 4 of this 4-day Lisbon itinerary, I recommend going on a day trip.
There are many beautiful places to be explored just outside of Lisbon! I will explain two possible day trips: Sintra or Cascais + Cabo da Roca!
Day trip to Sintra
Although this day trip has become very popular in recent years, it remains a stunning place to visit despite the crowds. There’s a reason why so many people want to see these fairytale-like castles. One whole day is needed to see everything Sintra has to offer.
The best time to visit Sintra is spring and autumn. The temperatures are pleasant, and it’s not too crowded yet.
How to get to Sintra?:
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Sintra is to take the train from Rossio station. The train schedule is frequent, with one every 20 minutes, and the journey lasts about 40 minutes. The first train departs around 6 AM, and the last around midnight. It’s important to remember to validate your ticket before boarding the train. I recommend arriving early to avoid long waiting lines.
Another option is to take the train from Oriente station outside the city centre. Once you arrive in Sintra, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the centre.
What to see in Sintra:
Palacio Nacional de Sintra
The Palacio Nacional de Sintra is a royal palace in the historic centre of Sintra. You can easily recognize it by its two big white chimneys. The building’s architecture in different styles features several impressive rooms and halls. A visit lasts about one hour. The palace is open from 9:30 AM to 7 PM, and the entry fee is €10.
Palacio da Pena (Pena Palace)
The Palacio da Pena, also known as the Pena Palace, is a colourful castle that looks like it came straight out of a Disney movie. The castle was built as a summer residence and is the most photographed castle in Sintra. The castle is more impressive on the outside than on the inside, in my opinion. It’s open from 9 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee is €14.
Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle)
Each castle in Sintra is very different from one another. This one is a lot less colourful than Palacio da Pena. Castelo dos Mouros, constructed by the Moors, was an important strategic point! It is located around massive boulders and has impressive walls.
The castle is open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and the entry fee is €8.
Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira is another beautiful gem that you should visit. In addition to the stunning gardens, you will find fountains, tunnels, caves, spiral stairs leading down wells, and more. A visit to this castle lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. The castle is open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, and the entry fee is €8. However, please note that the opening hours may vary slightly depending on the season.
Day trip to Cascais and Cabo da Roca
Instead of visiting Sintra, you could consider taking a day trip to Cascais and Cabo da Roca. Cascais is a charming coastal town with glorious beaches, fancy buildings, and beautiful shopping streets. Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Portugal and Europe, offers breathtaking views. You can begin your day in Cascais, spend the morning there, and then head to Cabo da Roca in the afternoon. Or you could do it the other way around.
How to get from Lisbon to Cascais?
The best way to get from Lisbon to Cascais is by taking the train from the Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon. The trains run regularly, and a ticket to Cascais costs €2,30. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes.
What to do in Cascais?
You could visit Praia da Reinha, a beautiful small beach and a perfect relaxing spot.
Also, take some time to wander around the cosy old town with its many cute shops. There are also a lot of great restaurants, so Cascais is the perfect place to have lunch!
How to get from Cascais to Cabo da Roca?
Near the Cascais train station, you’ll find a shopping centre named Cascais Villa. Below this mall, there’s a bus station from where you can take bus 403 to Cabo da Roca.
Make sure to check the timetable for the last bus so that you don’t miss it.
Cabo da Roca:
The lighthouse is the first thing you’ll notice when you arrive at Cabo da Roca. Apart from the lighthouse, there is only a statue and a gift shop. However, the main attraction is the stunning natural beauty of the area! You can access the main walking path by heading to the left side of the lighthouse.
If you have additional time, consider exploring the other side of the lighthouse. There is another pathway that leads to breathtaking views of the ocean. Take your time to appreciate the stunning scenery, and don’t forget to bring some essentials like water, snacks, comfortable shoes, a rain jacket or sweater (depending on the season), and sun cream, as strong winds may occur.
If you have seen everything you wanted to see at Cabo da Roca, you can take bus 403 back to Cascais. From there, you can take the train back to Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon.
During the stop in Cascais, you could go for dinner in the charming town or wait until you’re back in Lisbon.
I hope you enjoyed reading my 4-day Lisbon itinerary! Have a fantastic time in Lisbon! If you’re planning more trips to Portugal, you can check out my other Portugal blogs.
Tags: 4-day Libon Itinerary, Lisbon to Cascais
