HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT WEEKEND IN LISBON, PORTUGAL – this blog post is all about the absolute best things to do in 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal.
Lisbon is a vibrant European capital full of rich culture, incredible views, and a laid-back charm that makes it the perfect destination for a long weekend getaway. Whether you’re walking along the cobblestone streets of the city center or enjoying live music in the Bairro Alto district, Lisbon offers a mix of historical landmarks, trendy restaurants, and hidden gems. For your first day, start with a walking tour of the heart of Lisbon, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage sites like the impressive Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower.
On your second day, explore the best places in the vibrant city, like Mercado da Ribeira for a taste of Portuguese food and some of the best restaurants in the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, a short train ride will take you to Pena Palace in Sintra, a fairy-tale castle just outside the city with breathtaking views. Return to central Lisbon to unwind at a rooftop bar, enjoying the sunset over the Tagus River. With easy access to metro stations and tram lines, it’s a great way to explore Lisbon’s diverse neighborhoods, from the lively Pink Street to the peaceful Miradouro de Santa Catarina, all offering a glimpse of the Portuguese capital’s charm and beauty.
Our Story and How we Moved to Lisbon
If you have read our previous posts, you know that we are a vegan family of 4 that moved from Austin, Texas to Portugal in July 2021. Check it out here: Portugal move. We spent the first 2.5 weeks in Cascais, then 8 days in Porto and now we are in Lisbon, where we have been living full-time since September 2021. We have explored Lisbon intensely and have to share all of the best things to do in Lisbon!
If you are only planning on spending a few days in Lisbon, I highly recommend the Lisboa tourist card. It’s a really good deal since it’s valid for all public transportation and free entry to most museums!
Getting to Lisbon
Lisbon is well-connected to major cities around the world, with Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport) being the main international gateway. You can fly directly into Lisbon from most European capitals, North America, and beyond. Once you land, the airport is about 7 km (4 miles) from the city center. You can take a taxi, a private transfer, or the city bus to reach the city center in about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also use the metro (red line) from the airport to central Lisbon, which is an affordable option.
Getting Around Lisbon:
Lisbon has an excellent public transport system that is both affordable and easy to navigate. Here are some ways to get around:
- Metro: The metro is one of the fastest ways to travel around Lisbon. With four lines (blue, yellow, green, and red) covering much of the city, it’s a great option for getting to most major tourist attractions. The metro stations are well-marked and easy to use, with a rechargeable Viva Viagem card offering unlimited travel for a set time.
- Trams: Lisbon’s iconic trams are a fun way to explore the city, especially the historic Tram 25 route, which passes through some of the oldest neighborhoods like Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. Tram tickets can be purchased at tram stops or with the same Viva Viagem card used for metro rides.
- Buses: The bus network covers areas that aren’t served by the metro. Buses are a good way to reach areas like Belém and Campo de Ourique. As with the metro, you can use your Viva Viagem card for bus rides.
- Walking: Lisbon’s compact city center is best explored on foot, especially in neighborhoods like Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto. Be prepared for some steep hills, but walking is a great way to uncover hidden gems and local cafés.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available throughout the city, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also widely used. While taxis can be convenient, they may not be the most cost-effective way to get around.
- Bikes and Scooters: Lisbon has become more bike-friendly in recent years, with bike lanes and bike-sharing services like Gira. Electric scooters are also available for rent through various apps, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
With a combination of these transport options, you can easily explore Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and iconic landmarks.
My personal thoughts on getting around Lisbon
The best way to get around Lisbon is by walking, public transportation, or by Bolt (car-hire). The Lisboa Tourist card is really the best deal for unlimited public transportation plus free entry to most museums. If you plan on walking everywhere, definitely be aware that the sidewalks are Portuguese calçada (like cobblestone). This means that they can be quite slippery and uneven. Hot tip: Wear trail running shoes or lightweight hiking shoes to explore the city. Another hot tip: Get the Citymapper app for your phone.
where to stay in Lisbon
Check out lots of awesome options here: LISBON HOTELS AND APARTMENTS
HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT WEEKEND IN LISBON, PORTUGAL
Day 1 in lisbon: castelo SÃO jorge, The National Pantheon, São Vicente de Fora Church, Sé Cathedral, portas do sol lookout, Casa dos Bicos, Museu do Azulejos, and live Fado show + walk around the alfama neighborhood.
Castelo de São Jorge – This castle is one of my favorite places to go, especially with visiting friends. The view of Lisbon is fantastic, with the red-tiled roofs and white-washed buildings with a view of all the major hotspots of Lisbon. Plus, it’s free for Lisbon residents! For visitors, it’s 10 Euros per person, but you get a discount with the Lisboa card. After visiting the castle, you could walk to the Sao Vicente area and go to The National Pantheon.
Short History about Castelo de Sao Jorge
Castelo de São Jorge is a historic castle perched on one of Lisbon’s highest hills, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Originally built by the Moors in the 11th century, it served as a royal residence and a military fortress. Today, visitors can explore its ancient walls, towers, and archaeological site, which showcase the city’s rich history. The castle’s tranquil gardens and museum make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking vistas of Lisbon’s iconic red rooftops.
The National Pantheon – this is a grand Baroque-style building that houses the tombs of Portugal’s most distinguished figures. It’s free entry with the Lisboa card.
History of the National Pantheon
The National Pantheon, located in the Alfama district of Lisbon, is a magnificent baroque monument that took nearly three centuries to complete, beginning in 1681. Originally intended as the Church of Santa Engrácia, its construction was plagued by delays and only finished in 1966. It serves as a final resting place for Portugal’s most notable figures, including presidents, writers, and cultural icons like Amália Rodrigues, the famed fado singer. The Pantheon’s grand dome and interior are adorned with intricate marble designs, and its terrace offers sweeping views of the city and the Tagus River.
São Vicente de Fora Church – This is an art-filled place of worship & the burial place of the Braganza monarchs of Portugal. The entry fee is 5 Euros and helps maintain this enormous building and its contents. You might be interested in this awesome tour too.
The Church of São Vicente de Fora, located near Lisbon’s Alfama district, is a masterpiece of 17th-century Italian Renaissance architecture. Built between 1582 and 1627, it was commissioned by King Philip II of Spain (Philip I of Portugal) to honor Saint Vincent, Lisbon’s patron saint. The “de Fora” (“outside the walls”) refers to its location outside the medieval city walls. The church features a stunning tile-clad cloister, an impressive ceiling, and the royal pantheon of the Braganza dynasty. Its rooftop offers spectacular views of Lisbon, making it a cultural and historical treasure in the city.
Sé Cathedral of Lisbon – This is the oldest church in Lisbon as it dates back to the 12th century and its style is Romanesque and Baroque. There’s a small fee of 2,50€ for the cloisters, but it’s definitely worth it.
Sunset + evening activities
Portas do Sol Lookout – There is an adorable kiosk here where you can enjoy a refreshing beverage while partaking in a lovely sunset view of Lisbon. Tram 28 also stops right across the street from this lookout. 
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is a charming viewpoint in Lisbon’s Alfama district, offering stunning vistas of the Tagus River and the neighborhood’s iconic red rooftops. Adorned with beautiful azulejo tiles and surrounded by a tranquil garden, it’s a serene spot to enjoy the city’s beauty.
Casa dos Bicos – it’s free entry to the Roman archaeological site on the ground floor, but if you want to see everything offered on the upper floors including the Jose Saramago exhibit, the fee is 3€.
Casa dos Bicos, or the House of Spikes, is a unique architectural gem in Lisbon’s Alfama district, known for its striking façade adorned with diamond-shaped stones. Built in 1523 by Brás de Albuquerque, it combines elements of Renaissance, Manueline, and Moorish styles. Despite partial destruction in the 1755 earthquake, it has been restored and now houses the José Saramago Foundation, dedicated to the works and legacy of the Nobel Prize-winning author. Its blend of history, culture, and literary significance makes it a fascinating stop in the city.
Museu do Azulejos – if you include this visit with The National Pantheon, the fee is 7 Euros, but if you get the Lisboa card, it’s FREE. This museum is an up-close look at the history of azulejos and the stunning tilework created in Portugal.
Must-do – live Fado show
Fado Show – You MUST see a Fado show while visiting Lisbon! There are a plethora of Fado bars in the Alfama area. Entry is free and most bars simply require you to consume something while seeing the show. Or you could head over to the Chiado area for this entertaining FADO SHOW. 
Alfama – you could walk around and get lost in this awesome maze-like neighborhood or you could do this cool segway tour! TOUR
History of Alfama
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, with a history that traces back to the city’s Moorish occupation in the 8th century. Its narrow, winding streets were designed to keep homes cool and protect against invasions. After the 1755 earthquake, Alfama largely survived due to its solid bedrock foundation, preserving its medieval charm. Historically a working-class district, it became the heart of fado music, a soulful Portuguese tradition. Today, Alfama is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and tradition, showcasing Lisbon’s rich past.
Place to eat Vegan food in the Alfama area: Horacio Trattoria (our favorite!)
Where to Stay in Alfama:
- Highly rated apartment + budget friendly apartment
- Ultra-splurge + highly memorable
- Unique + great location
day 2 in lisbon: praça do comercio, rua augusta, santa justa lift, carmo convent, rossio square, avenida liberdade, principe real, parque eduardo, gulbenkian museum
Praça do Comercio – Praça do Comercio is a short walk from the Chiado metro and the Terreiro do Paço metro. It’s a huge, wide-open area with a lovely view of the Tagus River to the South and the statue and archway to Rua Augusta to the North. This is a perfect place for an awesome photo! Walking towards Cais das Colunas (the columns in the river), you will see an iconic view of the 25 de Abril bridge to the west. This is one of my favorite spots to really absorb the Lisbon lifestyle and admire the beauty. A couple of stops nearby could be the Lisbon Story Centre and the Museu da Cerveja (at least look inside this place at the intricate, gold decor). 
main tourist area
Rua Augusta – this street is incredibly busy, especially during the high tourist season, May-October. Before walking through the archway from the Praca do Comercio, don’t forget to look right and left at the striking architecture and beautiful archways to the east and west. This is a great spot for a photo! Then, walk on Rua Augusta towards Rossio Square. You may be approached a few times by the guys selling “hashish” which is really just laurel leaves, but they are harmless. Just ignore them and continue on your way.
History of Rua Augusta
Rua Augusta is a vibrant pedestrian street in Lisbon’s Baixa district, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake as part of the city’s grand reconstruction. It is known for its elegant pavements, lively shops, and bustling cafés, reflecting the city’s neoclassical charm. At its southern end stands the iconic Arco da Rua Augusta, completed in 1875 to commemorate Lisbon’s resilience and rebirth. Adorned with statues of historical figures, the arch offers a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Praça do Comércio and the Tagus River.
Elevador de Santa Justa – if you’re willing to wait in the long line to take this lift, the view from the top is lovely. If you have the Lisboa card as mentioned above, it’s a free ride. The Santa Justa Lift, an iconic neo-Gothic elevator in Lisbon, was designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard and opened in 1902 to connect the Baixa and Chiado districts. Its ornate ironwork and stunning city views from the top make it a beloved architectural and tourist landmark.
Carmo Convent – this convent (actually the remains of the convent after the earthquake of 1755) has an entry fee of 5€. It’s quite the sight and throughout the year, they hold special concerts in this unique area.
The Carmo Convent in Lisbon is a striking Gothic landmark that stands as a poignant reminder of the 1755 earthquake. Originally built in the late 14th century, it was once one of the most magnificent churches in the city. The earthquake destroyed much of the structure, leaving its iconic roofless arches open to the sky. Today, the convent houses the Carmo Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from Portuguese history, while its haunting beauty evokes a sense of history and resilience.
amazing view of santa justa lift and rooftop bars
Rossio Square – it’s interesting to walk around this square, and it only takes a few minutes. Plus, Scoop n Dough is nearby for the most amazing vegan donuts and ice cream. My favorite is the donut waffle with salted caramel ice cream. Delicious! 
Avenida da Liberdade – this is a really high-end, luxurious area. Both sides of the avenue are adorned with high-end brand shops. It’s a great area to walk and see the lovely calçadas (cobblestone walkways) and stop at one of the kiosks along the way to enjoy a fresh beverage. This Avenida will lead you to Marques de Pombal and Parque Eduardo to the North and Rossio Square to the South.
Short History about Avenida da Liberdade
Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s grand boulevard, was built in the late 19th century on the site of a former public park known as Passeio Público, created in the 18th century. Inspired by the grand avenues of Paris, it was designed to symbolize modernity and sophistication. Stretching over a kilometer, the avenue is lined with lush trees, ornate fountains, and elegant mosaics. Over time, it became a hub for luxury shops, theaters, and historic landmarks, cementing its status as one of Lisbon’s most prestigious streets.
west Lisbon area
Principe Real – This area is really popular with tourists and expats, many of whom call this neighborhood home. Most of the apartments and shops surround the lovely park, Jardim França Borges where a Saturday Farmer’s Market takes place. My favorite part of the park is the huge, ancient tree supported by a steel trellis. As you walk around the park, you will find several enchanting views of the city looking towards the river Tejo and the 25 de Abril bridge. Nearby, you will find the Jardim Botânico and Natural History Museum. You could spend all day at the Natural History Museum, especially if you go with kids.
northwest lisbon area
Parque Eduardo – One of my favorite viewpoints is in Parque Eduardo, looking towards Marque de Pombal, especially at night. It’s a lovely view of the manicured garden towards the roundabout to Avenida Liberdade with a slight view of the river. This is also a nice area to walk around. There are several restaurants in the park, but we haven’t visited them yet. This park also hosts the annual Book Fair and Winter Wonderland during the holidays. 
Just west of the park, you will find Estufa Fria. Estufa Fria is a huge, indoor botanical garden/greenhouse. They have over 300 species of plants and 3 sections: cold greenhouse, hot greenhouse, and sweet greenhouse. It’s so fun to explore and feel like you are in the jungle! And the price of admission is super affordable – 1-2 Euros each and on Sunday, it’s free entry.
a lovely day at gulbenkian museum
Gulbenkian Museum and Garden – The Gulbenkian Museum is within walking distance from Parque Eduardo. The Museum itself is quite astonishing, but the park is one of my favorite areas to sit down and relax. According to the museum, you travel through 5,000 years of history and discover the works collected by Calouste Gulbenkian in one of the most important private collections of international art. There are over 6,000 pieces in the museum, all collected by Gulbenkian. My favorite section is the Asian art. Hot tip: The museum is free on Sundays at 2:00 p.m. and the garden is always free. The Gulbenkian also has an orchestra and hosts many musical events throughout the year.
Places to eat near here: It feels like ALL of the vegan restaurants are in the Chiado/Baixa area. Our favorites are 26 Vegan Food Project and Organi Chiado. Other places: Legumi Sushi, Plant Base, Jardim das Cerejas, 26 Vegan Food Project, Kong, The Green Affair, Vegan Nata and Amorino.
where to stay in chiado:
day 3 in lisbon: belem, jeronimos monastery, belem tower, ajuda botanical garden, maat, museu nacional de coches, lx factory, alcantara, santos
Belem Bike Tour – This e-bike tour would be so much fun! Next time we have visitors, we are definitely going to do this. And if you have extra time and want to see a view of Lisbon from the river, this sailing tour sounds fantastic!
Padrão dos Descobrimentos – This monument erected in 1940 is an homage to all of the brave explorers and discoveries encountered almost 600 years ago. The monument is colossal and quite a sight to see with the traditional Portuguese calcadas leading the way towards the Tagus River.
Jeronimos Monastery – This monastery is a must-visit and is definitely really popular for its beauty and Instagram-worthy architecture. Don’t forget your Lisboa card for free entry to this monastery along with so many other benefits!
Belem Tower – was built in the 16th century – around 1515 and designed by architect Francisco de Arruda. Its original purpose was to be a fort, protecting Lisbon from incoming raids along the Tagus River. It was also what marked the beginning of voyages for the sailors and the last sight of land. 
garden + museums
Ajuda Botanical Garden – These botanical gardens have ornate fountains & statuary, plus trees & species from Portugal’s former colonies. I love to visit gardens when I travel and this one is definitely impressive. 
MAAT – this museum of art, architecture, and technology with its interactive light show is spectacular! It’s easy to spend a couple of hours here exploring the former electric station and the newer interactive exhibits. Don’t forget to go to the roof of the building for gorgeous views of the 25 de Abril bridge and the river.
Museu Nacional De Coches – This museum is super exciting to see the coaches used in the 16th-19th centuries, mainly by Portuguese royalty. It’s incredible how ornate the coaches are and to learn the history of Portugal through past transportation modes. 
west Lisbon area
LX Factory – The LX Factory is definitely one of the must-visit spots in Lisbon. There are charming local shops, exciting eateries, a delightful bookshop, amazing artists on the 1st-3rd floors of the main building, and cool murals to find. Fernando has an art studio here (1st floor, Loja 14) so stop by to say hello if you go to LX Factory! They also have a local pop-up market on Sundays. It’s a perfect way to support the local makers and creatives.
Santos neighborhood – we like to walk around this area as it’s becoming trendy. The green street is my favorite street to walk on along with the colorful murals and tilework found throughout this area. There are also a couple of delicious vegan restaurants in this area, namely Ortea Vegan Collective and Powerplant.
Where to stay near Belem
Best Time to Visit Lisbon
The best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s °F (18-27 °C). This makes it ideal for exploring the city’s many attractions, wandering through neighborhoods like Alfama and Baixa, and enjoying outdoor activities without the sweltering heat of summer.
Spring is particularly enchanting, as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and numerous festivals, such as the Festa de Santo António in June. However, visiting in late spring can also be rewarding. At this time, the crowds are generally smaller before the summer tourist season peaks.
Fall offers a similar experience, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. This allows for a more relaxed atmosphere while visiting popular sites. Additionally, the autumn months often feature cultural events and local festivities.
Summer aka High Season (June to August) can be quite hot, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 90 °F (32 °C), and the city becomes busier with tourists. However, if you enjoy lively street scenes and outdoor dining, summer can still be an enjoyable time to visit.
Overall, visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall allows for a balance of pleasant weather, vibrant local culture, and manageable crowds, making it the ideal time to explore Lisbon.
Final Thoughts on Your Perfect Weekend in Lisbon
The perfect weekend in Lisbon comes to a close with a visit to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, ensuring that you experience the essence of this beautiful city. From São Jorge Castle, perched atop the hill with the best views of the entire city, to the peaceful Campo de Ourique, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, every corner offers something worth visiting. A trip to the famous Torre de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, are must-dos on your Lisbon itinerary.
Don’t forget to take a stroll through Bairro Alto, with its lively atmosphere, is a great way to end the day. For a delicious final treat, enjoy pastéis de nata at Vegan Nata, Green Beans or Nat’elier. Whether you’ve followed this travel guide or relied on Google Maps, your weekend in Lisbon, full of historical sites, delicious food, and incredible views, will surely be one of your favorite things about visiting European capitals.
This was a post about how to spend the perfect weekend in Lisbon, Portugal. If you have more time to spend in this incredible city, definitely read our post about the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal to get more ideas!
HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT WEEKEND IN LISBON, PORTUGAL – This blog post is all about the absolute best things to do in 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal.
Related post: The Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal
Related post: The Vegan Guide to Lisbon, Portugal
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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
- Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
- Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
- Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities
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[…] is full of amazing places to stay at and things to do. In a previous post, I wrote about all the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal. This post is all about where to stay in […]