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Lisbon, Portugal – the City of Seven Hills – has an intriguing past and soulful vibe. It’s been shaped by royalty, religion, the Age of Discovery and the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake. The fascinating history of Lisbon can be found in the architecture, traditions and unique Portuguese food.
Spending 3 days in Lisbon is an ideal amount of time to get acquainted with the city. We feature all the highlights and more in our perfect Lisbon Itinerary!
Planning 3 Days in Lisbon, Portugal
On our first trip to the city in 2010, we booked three days in Lisbon as part of a longer Portugal Itinerary. We bought a guidebook that outlined Lisbon must-see sights, but made little other effort to plan our time. When we arrived, we struggled – really struggled – to understand the love and hype of Lisbon.
The hills were steeper than we anticipated. The weather was hotter than we anticipated. And our sightseeing Lisbon guidebook was far less helpful than we anticipated.
Four years later, we returned to Lisbon with open minds. We had obviously missed something. With two weeks in Lisbon and an actual plan, we were quick to see how wrong our first impressions were. The second time around, we fell in love with Lisbon.
We have since returned to Lisbon several times, exploring deeper on each visit. While reminiscing about our first-trip debacle, we compiled a 3 perfect days in Lisbon itinerary. We believe it highlights the best of the city and it’s the itinerary we wished we had for our first trip to Lisbon!
About Our Lisbon 3-Day Itinerary
Our 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary is packed with top activities and experiences. We have also included a helpful Lisbon map at the end of the article.
Still undecided on how many days in Lisbon to plan for your trip? We provide suggestions for popular Lisbon day tours and excursions for those with more time.
Other essential information for your Lisbon, Portugal travel itinerary – like where to stay and how to get there – will also be discussed below.
3-Day Lisbon Itinerary
Our advice for things to see in Lisbon in 3 days includes full days of sightseeing. We focus on visiting the distinctly different Lisbon neighborhoods and finding the best views and atmosphere. In short, this post is filled with all the details for what to do in Lisbon for 3 days, so let’s get started!
Save, Pin or Bookmark our 3 Day Lisbon Itinerary to plan your Portugal Trip!
Day One
If you arrive in the morning, visit top sights and learn about the history on a Lisbon city tour. Then, in the afternoon and into the evening, explore further on the streets of the famous Alfama district.
Lisbon Walking Tour
Discover landmarks and hear stories of the past on a walking tour of Lisbon. Stroll through Lisbon’s iconic neighborhoods, like Bairro Alto, Chiado and Baixa, while gaining a deeper understanding of the events that shaped the city.
Join a guide on a popular Lisbon sightseeing tour – like the Free Lisbon Walking Tour by Sandemans New Europe (1100am) or this highly-rated City Tour of Lisbon (0930am).
Praca do Comercio
Built on the site of the Royal Ribeira Palace (which was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake), Praca do Comercio is the most regal square in Lisbon. Opening to the Tagus River, the space once functioned as the center of the city’s commerce and port authority.
This picturesque Lisbon square is framed on three sides by yellow, arcaded buildings, which house museums, restaurants, cafes along with government offices.
Find a place for lunch on Praca do Comercio, like the historic Martinho da Arcada. Museu da Cerveja, Ministerium Terrace and Baia do Peixe are other top Praca do Comercio restaurants.
Budget Tip: Make a quick detour to Cais do Sodre station and pick up inexpensive items from the Pingo Doce grocery store. Then enjoy a picnic lunch on the waterfront!
Alfama Exploration
The Alfama district consists of a tangle of narrow, cobblestone streets with laundry drying on lines outside windows. Home to many Lisbon top sights, the charm of the neighborhood really comes alive on the narrow backstreets that there isn’t time for on a guided tour.
It’s easy to get off the beaten path in Alfama by roaming with no set agenda. The maze of Alfama alleys leads to quaint squares, small churches, hidden cafes and secret lookout points.
While exploring Alfama, you are certain to catch a glimpse of women gossiping with neighbors as they hang their sheets to dry. You will see the famous Lisbon trams rambling down tracks on streets barely wide enough for the carriage.
Take note of the building exteriors – some covered in traditional azulejo tiles – and others that are decorated with evocative street art. When you stumble upon a café with delectable pastries and inexpensive wine, take a seat and savor the ambiance of Alfama.
Alfama, Lisbon Sights
While we encourage aimless wandering in Alfama, there are a few sights that you will want to be certain to include in your 3 Day Itinerary of Lisbon. We have listed these below and you can use this map for a walking route…but don’t hesitate to make detours!
Se Cathedral Lisbon
Built in 1147, the Lisbon Cathedral is the oldest church in the city. The stoic, fortress-like exterior matches the dimly-lit interior. While you can take a quick look for free, tickets are now required for entry (€5). Admission does include visiting the treasury and viewing the cloister where excavations have unearthed evidence of previous civilizations.
Santo Antonio Church
Sitting in the shadow of the Se Cathedral is a small church dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua, one of Lisbon’s patron saints. A chapel marks the birthplace of St. Anthony and artwork telling the story of his life decorates the interior.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol
Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol are two of the most popular Lisbon viewpoints – or miradouros. The views from Santa Luzia – which features a rectangular fountain, traditional tiles and a trellised archway – offer a panoramic vista over the Tagus River.
The smaller and likely more crowded Portas do Sol provides a look at two historic sites in Alfama: Sao Vicente de Fora Church and the massive dome of the National Pantheon.
St. George Castle Lisbon (Castelo de Sao Jorge)
The hill-topping Castelo de Sao Jorge is one of the top Lisbon tourist attractions. Dating to the 11th century, the fortifications were built to protect soldiers in the case of an attack (not as a royal residence).
Within the São Jorge Castle grounds guests can visit a permanent history exhibition, an archaeological site, gardens and additional Lisbon viewpoints. Tickets are required and should be purchased in advance.
Sao Vicente de Fora Church, Monastery and Museum
The monastery was built for the Augustinian Order in 1147. The adjacent Igreja Sao Vicente de Fora (dedicated to Lisbon’s official patron saint, St. Vincent) was added in the early 1600s.
Tickets costs €8 to explore the church and the accompanying museum that features artworks and a large display of Portuguese tiles. The price of entry also includes access to the rooftop for Lisbon city views.
National Pantheon
The enormous domed National Pantheon took an astounding 284 years to build. Inside, visitors will find sarcophaguses of some of Portugal’s most famous citizens – like Fado singer Amalia Rodrigues and poet Joao de Deus.
Cenotaphs memorialize celebrated Portuguese explorers – like Vasco da Gama and Henry the Navigator – along with poet Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen. Make sure to head up to the rooftop for sweeping views over Alfama. An €8 ticket is required to enter the Pantheon.
Lisbon Thieves Market (Feira da Ladra)
The Thieves Market – or Feira da Ladra – is one of Lisbon’s oldest and most interesting traditions. The flea market sprawls to the north and the east of the Pantheon into the streets of Alfama. Vendors peddle their wares that are scattered across tables and tossed onto blankets.
The odd assortment of goods includes everything from rare antiques to used clothing to toiletry items to old cellphones. Note: The Feira da Ladra market only takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Miradouro Graca
Providing phenomenal views of Castelo de Sao Jorge and the Lisbon city center, Miradouro Graca is a popular gathering point at sunset. Benches are arranged under leafy trees and an on-site café serves up cold beverages. The Graca Church is also worth popping in for a look (free). Additionally, for €5 you can visit their observation terrace and the price includes a drink.
Top Tip: For another impressive viewpoint, trek uphill just a bit more to Miradoura da Nossa Senhora do Monte.
National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
Located northeast of the Alfama District, the National Tile Museum in Lisbon is a fascinating place to see. Housed in an ancient monastery, the space features the artistic ceramic tiles that are famous all throughout Portugal. If you can squeeze a visit to the museum into your Lisbon 3 Day Itinerary, we highly recommend it!
Fado in Lisbon
Some say Fado was born on the streets of Alfama. The musical genre is best known as being melancholy, heartbreaking and stirring. For many, listening to live Fado in Lisbon is an absolute must during 3 days in Portugal.
There are many places throughout Lisbon that offer Fado experiences. From amateurs to professionals, the performances vary and are priced accordingly.
We recommend booking ahead if you want to ensure a seat for a Fado dinner show. Some of the top-rated Fado restaurants in Alfama are Sr. Fado de Alfama (reviews), Clube de Fado (reviews) and Parreirinha de Alfama (reviews).
Day Two
Most of the second day of your Lisbon three-day itinerary will be spent on short excursions to Belem and the Cristo Rei statue. Don’t stress, you’ll be back in central Lisbon with plenty of time for an evening of fun!
Belem
The riverside town of Belém is just 4 miles from the center of Lisbon, but feels a world away. Well-connected by public transport and even a riverside walking path, it’s an easy trip to Belem from Lisbon.
The top sights in Belem include the Belem Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries and Jeronimos Monastery. Visitors should also stop at Pasteis de Belem for a taste of the most famous Portuguese custard tart. Then spend some time strolling along the picturesque Tagus River shoreline.
Consider stopping by LX Factory on your way back to central Lisbon. The urban creative and retail space features street art murals, boutique shops and lively cafes and restaurants.
Use our detailed list of Things To Do in Belem, Portugal
Time Out Market Lisboa
Origins of Lisbon’s Mercado da Ribeira Velha date to the 1100s – and it reigned as one of the city’s thriving food markets for centuries. Over time, many of the market’s aspects became obsolete, which nearly led to it’s closure.
However, in a partnership with Time Out Magazine, the market was completely revitalized in 2014 and transformed into a foodie haven.
The main hall now boasts 40 restaurant stalls which feature some of Lisbon’s top chefs. Here guests can dine on traditional and innovative Portuguese cuisine. Travelers who want to get a taste of Lisbon’s best food should definitely put the Time Out Market on their Lisbon in 3 Days Itinerary.
We recommend indulging in the famous food from Porto, the Francesinha sandwich, from Miguel Castro e Silva or the Plate of the Day from Marlene Vieira. Wherever you eat, don’t leave the Time Out Market without at least one custard tart from Manteigaria!
Cristo Rei Lisboa
After lunch, hop on a ferry for a ride across the Tagus to visit the dominating Cristo Rei statue. Officially called the National Sanctuary of Christ the King, the statue is reminiscent of the Christ Redeemer statue that stands over Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.
Built in the 1950s, the Lisbon monument is just one sight in the complex. Other places to visit at Cristo Rei include a chapel, sanctuary, Stations of the Cross, gardens and galleries. The 92-foot-tall statue stands on a 269-foot-tall platform, which can be visited for incredible views (€8).
Read all our advice for Visiting Cristo Rei
Watch an Amazing Lisbon Sunset
Once back on the north side of the river, choose a spot to watch sunset. We suggest either along the riverfront Ribeira da Naus or with an elevated perch at Miradouro de Santa Catarina. Both locations are sure to have a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the scene.
Top Tip: If you decide to head up to Miradouro de Santa Catarina (also called Adamastor), take the convenient (and fun!) Elevador da Bica.
Cais do Sodre Restaurants and Bars
The once-seedy Cais do Sodre district has seen a significant transformation in recent years. After Time Out gathered top eats under one roof at Mercado de Ribeira, the city spruced up the entire area. Cais do Sodre then quickly emerged as a hip hangout where all are welcome.
Chic restaurants and fashionable clubs have saturated the neighborhood, making it one of the new go-to spots in Lisbon. Those who want to party until dawn should check out the clubs on Pink Street. At the very least, have a cocktail at the infamous, quirky and former brothel, Pensao Amor (reviews).
More Great Bars for your 3 Days Lisbon Itinerary
Not up for an all-night party? It’s okay, neither are we. There are still plenty of fun places to have a drink! Craft beer aficionados will want to head to local Lisbon brewery MUSA da Bica location (reviews). Wine enthusiasts should check out By the Wine (reviews). For cocktails go to O Bom O Mau e O Vilao (reviews), where they also feature live jazz, or Java Rooftop (reviews) for drinks with a view.
Day Three
Completing your 3-Day Itinerary for Lisbon can be spent two ways: Discovering the west side neighborhoods or going on an excursion.
Below, we outline the sights of west Lisbon, including the districts of Estrela/Lapa and Campo de Ourique. Options for day tours from Lisbon (including Sintra and Cascais) are listed in the next sections.
Lisbon Tram 28
Riding a tram is an essential Lisbon experience for tourist. The historic yellow carriages on the Lisbon Tram 28 line are the most popular choice. Not only because they are charming, but as the route passes through the top neighborhoods of Graca, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela.
Join the line to hop onboard a westbound Tram 28 at Martim Moniz and ride to the final stop – Campo Ourique/Prazeres.
Top Tip: Tram 28 tickets can be purchased from the driver and paid in cash (€3.10 each ride). Read about more options in the Getting Around Lisbon section below.
Prazeres Cemetery
Some may think it is eerie to visit a cemetery, but the Lisbon Cemiterio dos Prazeres is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the city. Founded in 1833, the cemetery is the final resting place for some of Lisbon’s most elite residents.
The walkways are lined with ornate mausoleums and elaborate tombstones. From the west end of the cemetery, visitors have sweeping views of the 25 de Abril Bridge, Tagus River and Cristo Rei.
Top Tip: Tapada das Necessidades to the south of the cemetery is one of our favorite Lisbon parks. The former palace grounds features tree-covered paths, a cactus garden, abandoned structures and peacocks. If you have time in your Lisbon itinerary, we recommend checking it out!
Campo de Ourique Market
Similar to (but on a much smaller scale than) the revitalized Time Out Market, the Mercado de Campo de Ourique has an intimate, community ambiance. The hall itself dates to the 1930s and was completely renovated in 2013.
Vendors craft traditional meals and Portuguese snacks – along with a good choice of international fare. For something to drink, we recommend a bottle of special label Mercado de Campo de Ourique wine.
World’s Best Chocolate Cake
Although there are several temping desserts at Campo Ourique Market, there’s something even better just across the street: O Melhor Bolo de Chocolate do Mundo. The small bakery, whose name literally translates to The Best Chocolate Cake in the World, makes an outrageously incredible treat.
The confection is layered with melt-in-your-mouth chocolate like we’ve never before experienced. After one slice, we were tempted to buy a whole cake!
Estrela Basilica and Park
The towering dome of Basilica da Estrela can be seen from afar, but is even more impressive from up-close. The church was built in the late 1700s and features intricately designed colored marble throughout.
For €4, visitors can take a peek at the 500-piece Nativity Scene that was created in 1785 and climb to the rooftop dome for city views.
Across the street from the basilica is the elegantly designed Estrela Park. The gardens feature exotic plants, a gazebo and a duck pond. The space is typically frequented with residents sharing stories, walking their dogs or exercising.
Lisbon Tram 25 to Corpo Santo
To return to the Lisbon city center, forego the crammed Tram 28 and hop on #25 instead. Lisbon Tram 25 picks up passengers right in front of the Estrela church, winds through residential neighborhoods and terminates at Corpo Santo.
From there, take a leisurely 15 minute stroll to Praca de Figueira, exactly where you want to be to start your evening. If you went on a day trip instead, it’s also a central spot to continue this itinerary.
Igreja de Sao Domingos
One of the most evocative churches in Lisbon, Igreja de Sao Domingos was first built in 1241. Reduced to rubble in the 1755 earthquake, it was rebuilt only to be destroyed by fire in 1959. During renovation, they decided to leave visible marks of fire damage, which has a truly haunting effect.
Drink Ginja at A Ginjinha
Ginjinha – or Ginja for short – is Lisbon’s sweet cherry liqueur and a must-try while in the city. The A Ginjinha bar opened in 1840 and was the first place to sell the liqueur, which at the time was used to cure common ailments.
Today, visitors line up at A Ginjinha for a taste that can be ordered with or without a liquor-soaked cherry. Ginja is also available from kiosks all around Lisbon, especially during the winter.
Rossio Square
From A Ginjinha, walk past the Teatro Nacional D Maria II through Praca do Rossio. While both sights should be included on your Day 1 Lisbon Walking Tour, it’s well worth a second look when you can appreciate the area at your own pace.
Pause to take in the sights of the majestic square, also called Praça D. Pedro IV, before heading up to the Bairro Alto district.
Santo Justa Lift
Built in 1902 to allow passengers to get from Baixa to Bairro Alto without the steep climb, the Santa Justa elevator has naturally become somewhat of a tourist attraction. Still useful for getting between the two districts, the 147-foot-tall observation deck is why many visitors take the ride up.
Convent do Carmo
Only a shell remains of the Carmo Convent and Church that was built in the late 1300s and destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The church now houses a small archaeological museum (which requires a €7 ticket).
Igreja de Sao Roque
Behind the plain façade of Igreja de Sao Roque is one of the most ornate and glittering churches in Lisbon. Featuring opulent Baroque architecture, the interior is filled with colorful statues, historic tiles and masterpiece paintings.
Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
Take one last long look over the Lisbon Old Town from Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara. The two-level park features planned gardens, benches, fountains and a stunning view of Castelo de Sao Jorge. Consider staying for sunset or spend the last light of the day wandering through Bairro Alto.
Bairro Alto Nightlife
After the sun goes down, Bairro Alto changes from a trendy shopping district to a buzzing nightlife destination. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with small restaurants and cozy bars.
For dinner, graze on an evening meal of typical Lisbon petiscos – which are small plates for sharing (similar to tapas). Popular establishments for petiscos in Bairro Alto are Leve Leve (reviews) or Tapa Bucho (reviews).
Top picks for places to go for a drink in Bairro Alto include Groove Bar and The Botanical Den. For Fado, check out Tasca do Chico (reviews). Alternatively, for a sit-down meal go to the nearby favorite neighborhood spot, Toma La Da Ca (reviews).
Lisbon Map of Sights
View our map that includes markers on the sights we recommend seeing on your 3-day trip to Lisbon. The sights are color-coded by day; 1 = Teal, 2 = Navy, 3 = Blue.
Best Day Trips from Lisbon
We know there are plenty of activities to keep you busy when you visit Lisbon in 3 days. However, taking one of the popular Lisbon day trips is difficult to resist.
Lisbon Beaches
Lisbon’s proximity to the Atlantic coastline allows visitors several opportunities to spend a day at the beach. Public transportation can be used to get to many of the nearby beaches in Lisbon – like Cascais and Praia da Mata.
However, destinations like Berlenga Grande Island are better visited with an organized excursion. Get the details!
Top Tip: Read our detailed guide to One Day in Cascais to plan your own trip!
Lisbon to Sintra Tour
A Lisbon to Sintra day trip is the most popular city excursion. Tour participants set off on a full-day adventure to discover the sights of Sintra before heading to Cabo Roca and Cascais Beach.
Just want to tour Sintra? This highly-rated full day trip covers top Sintra sights and allows from some free time in the Old Town. Only have a few hours? Make the most of your short time in Lisbon with a fully-customizable Sintra Half-Day Tour. Find out more!
Top Tip: Visit on your own with the help of our incredibly detailed Lisbon-to-Sintra Guide!
Setubal Wine Tour
Enjoy a private tour in the beautiful Setubal wine region on a full-day trip from Lisbon. Sip local wines while visiting two wineries and a spirit producer. Get the details!
Evora Day Trip
See renowned Roman ruins on a day trip to Evora from Lisbon. The 8-hour journey includes visiting the Capela dos Ossos and Templo de Diana ruins, as well as lunch at a restaurant, wine at an Alentejo vineyard and a stop at the Arraiolos Castle. Book this tour!
Fatima Tours from Lisbon
Travel through the countryside to visit three historic Portuguese towns – Fatima, Nazare and Obidos – on a highly-rated, small-group Lisbon day trip. Visit the Sanctuary of Fatima, Batalha Monastery and the Nazare cliffs. Details about this trip!
Lisbon to Porto Day Trip
Take a journey to the north coast of Portugal with a private driver on an all-day tour from Lisbon to Porto. Learn the history of this UNESCO World Heritage city and taste the famous Port Wine from the Douro Valley while enjoying incredible views of the river. Find out more!
Create a Lisbon and Porto Itinerary
We absolutely love Porto and think it deserves more than just a day! Make Visiting Porto a part of your Portugal vacation plans – and with our tips, build the perfect Porto and Lisbon Itinerary.
Use our Porto Walking Tour to get acquainted with the city, next taste the Best Porto Food and then find out where to enjoy great Porto Craft Beer!
Lisbon Tours
Some of the absolute best Lisbon, Portugal tours take place right in the heart of the city with local guides. Fellow travelers may want to enhance their Lisbon 3 Days Itinerary with one of these highly rated guided tours.
Lisbon Food and Wine Tour
Enjoy an evening of the best bites in Lisbon on this top rated Food and Wine Tour. Participants get a taste of typical Portuguese dishes, while learning about the history of the local cuisine. Get the details!
Evening Fado and Food-Tasting Tour
Join a local guide to discover an evening in Lisbon. Tour participants learn about the history of Fado, sample multiple traditional ‘small plates’ and listen to music from two different Fado houses. Find out more!
Lisbon Sunset Sailing Tour
Set sail for a relaxing cruise along the river. While gazing at the shoreline monuments, sip on regional wine and enjoy the setting sun. Book it!
Tour Lisbon on Electric Bike
The City of 7 Hills can be a challenge to navigate on foot! Instead, hop on an electric bike and let a guide lead the way to the top city sights. Learn more!
Travel Tips for your 3 Days Lisbon Trip
We have shared our top sightseeing tips in our Lisbon Three Day Itinerary, but have some additional advice that will help you easily plan your vacation to Portugal.
Planning Your Best 3 Day Itinerary for Lisbon
Our guide of what to do in Lisbon in 3 days will surely help – but you still need to plan, gather and organize all the details of your personal trip.
In addition to our 3 Day Itinerary in Lisbon, we have also created detailed articles that feature our top tips.
- Great Scenic Viewpoints in Lisbon
- Essential Lisbon Travel Tips
- Beautiful Lisbon Churches
- Free Things To Do in Lisbon
- A Day in Belem
Furthermore, we offer honest advice in our Portugal and Europe guides that can be used in conjunction with our 3 Day Itinerary Lisbon.
- Best of Portugal in 10 Days
- Things To Do in Funchal (including our Madeira Foodie Guide)
- What To Do in Porto, Portugal
- Madeira Island Itinerary
- Top Reasons To Visit Braga, Portugal
- Sao Miguel Azores Itinerary (including great hikes and amazing viewpoints)
- What To See in Aveiro
- How To Plan a European Vacation
As you make decisions about what to do in Lisbon, Portugal for 3 days, you will need to keep track of the details. We recommend using a our Printable Travel Planner – so that nothing falls through the cracks!
Getting Around Lisbon
During a 3 day Lisbon trip, it is not necessary to rent a car – unless you want to explore on your own outside of the city center. Use our tips for getting the best car rentals before you make a reservation.
The Public transportation system in Lisbon is run by Carris. It consists of trams, trains, buses, subways and ferries.
For a reduced fare and less hassle, use a Navegante pre-loaded transportation card. These can be purchased at Metro stops and most train stations for €.50. They are ideal if you plan on using Lisbon public transport often.
Lisbon Sightseeing Bus
Walking around Lisbon can take a bit of effort with all those hills, especially under the scorching summer sun. Make it easier by using the Hop On Hop Off Lisbon, Portugal Bus that makes stops at all the city’s top sights – including routes to Belem. Buy your tickets in advance!
Lisbon Card
If during your Lisbon Itinerary 3 Days you plan on entering several attractions – and traveling via public transport – the Lisboa Card can provide significant savings.
With the Lisboa Card, all public transportation (including the Santa Justa Lift) is included. Additionally, it provides reduced admission to many museums and top Lisbon sights – like St. George Castle!
Where To Stay in Lisbon, Portugal
During our many trips to Lisbon, we have stayed at a variety of accommodations in different locations – from charming Airbnb apartments to luxury hotels. Deciding the best place to stay in Lisbon will depend on your budget and style.
That said, with only 3 nights in Lisbon, we suggest staying in the city center – as it will be easier to get around to all the sights and attractions. On the other hand, basing yourself in Belem is a good choice if you want a quieter, more relaxing area.
My Story Hotel Augusta
Located right in the heart of the city, My Story Augusta offers comfortable rooms at a good value. This Lisbon hotel also gets rave reviews for cleanliness and an excellent breakfast. Check availability for your stay!
Browns Downtown Hotel
A quiet hotel in the city center, Browns Downtown Lisbon Hotel features a chic design and quiet rooms with comfortable beds. Check rates for your stay!
Budget Hostels in Lisbon
Travelers on a budget might opt to stay in one of the top rated Lisbon hostels – like Lisboa Central Hostel and Lisbon Destination.
Altis Belem Hotel and Spa
Those looking for a luxury stay outside the Lisbon city center should consider the posh Altis Belem Hotel and Spa. We stayed here on our first trip to Lisbon and absolutely loved the modern decor, river views and private balcony.
Read our advice for Booking the Best Hotels – then start your search on Booking.com!
Short-Term Lisbon Apartments
In general, we have found that staying in Airbnb apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms. We also like to take advantage of a kitchen and, usually, more space. Use our Tips for Airbnb Guests before you begin looking.
Getting To Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon can be reached by plane, train, bus, boat or car. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying (we are JetSetting Fools, after all!).
Use our Tips for Booking Flights – then start your search for cheap tickets to Lisbon on Skyscanner.
The Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is where all flights to Lisbon land. It offers frequent direct flights from Paris, London, Madrid and Frankfurt as well as seasonal flights from San Francisco, Philadelphia, NYC, Boston, DC and Chicago!
If arriving/departing Lisbon by train or bus, there are several stations in the city. When booking travel by train or bus to Lisbon, pay close attention to the station of arrival/departure.
What To Pack for Lisbon, Portugal
Our final tips cover what you will need to pack for your Lisbon 3 Days Itinerary. You can find our top hacks and complete packing list on our dedicated Travel Packing page. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist!
City Walking Shoes
Lisbon is a walkable city…but only if you have the right travel shoes for all those hills! Don’t forget to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Lightweight casual trainers – like my favorites from New Balance – are great for sightseeing in Lisbon. Kris was most comfortable in Merrell trail shoes.
Camera for Travel
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your 3 day trip to Lisbon – the city is incredibly photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual travel camera for high quality photos. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and use an 18-135mm lens, which takes amazing shots and is also a great budget camera for beginners!
Lisbon Map and Portugal Guidebook
It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city…especially Lisbon (trust us on this one!) Make sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook before arriving in Portugal.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want to have a great day bag to organize and secure all your favorite everyday travel items!
Portugal Trip Insurance
Plans can change, people get sick, planes get delayed, items go missing and luggage can get lost. If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Portugal, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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