Planning a 2-day Lisbon itinerary? How exciting! I’ve got you covered.
Lisbon is a beautiful city full of rich history, delicious food, and stunning architecture. With only 2 days to explore, it’s important to make the most of your time.
I spent two weeks in Portugal a few years ago. Lisbon is an amazing, underrated European city and I can’t wait to give you travel tips!
This itinerary will help you get a taste of some of Lisbon’s finest.
Lisbon is known for its vibrant culture, charming cobbled streets, and warm, Mediterranean climate.
Its compact size makes it perfect for a two-day trip!
2-Day Lisbon Itinerary
Day 1: Bairro Alto
1. Explore Enchanting Streets
The Bairro Alto neighborhood is known for its colorful buildings, unique street art, and picturesque alleyways.
It’s the perfect place to get lost and discover hidden gems!
Stop at Rua da Bica, famous for its iconic yellow trolley that climbs the steep hill. It’s easily one of my favorite Instagram spots in Lisbon.
Other popular streets include Rua do Diário de Notícias and Rua Garrett.
Time: 1 hour ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 24 hours ⏐💲Price: Free ⏐
⭐Popular Lisbon Hotels
2. Ride a yellow tram
After exploring the charming streets of Bairro Alto, take a ride on one of Lisbon’s iconic trams.
Tram 28 is known as the “tourist tram” and will take you through some of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods, including Alfama and Baixa.
The route also passes by popular landmarks such as São Jorge Castle and Praça do Comércio.
The narrow streets and colorful buildings make for a scenic trip that you won’t want to miss.
Tram 28 is a hop-on/hop-off service, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Time: 1 – 2 hours ⏐ 🕑 Hours: Trolleys depart every 15 minutes until 9:00pm ⏐💲Price: ⏐
3. Miradouro de Sao Pedro
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is a popular viewpoint with a wide, open terrace overlooking central Lisbon.
From here, you’ll get a clear view of São Jorge Castle, the Baixa district, and the river beyond.
There’s a small garden, a map of the skyline, and a few kiosks for coffee or snacks.
It’s free to visit and especially photogenic around sunset.
Time: 1 hour ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 24 hours ⏐💲Price: Free ⏐
4. Livraria Boltrand: Oldest Bookstore in the World
Livraria Bertrand is the world’s oldest operating bookstore! I love facts like this while traveling.
The bookstore has survived major events, including the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
Located in Lisbon’s Chiado district, it offers a vast selection of books in Portuguese and English across multiple interconnected rooms.
Visitors can explore its rich literary history and enjoy a coffee at the in-house café. It’s a great stop for book lovers, even if you’re not planning to buy anything!
Time: 45 minutes ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 9:00am – 10:00pm ⏐ Website ⏐
Day 2: Alfama and Belem
1. Sao Jorge Castle
Castelo de São Jorge is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. This was one of my favorite things I did on my Lisbon trip. Who doesn’t want to wander around historic castle grounds?!
Its location on a giant hilltop provides stunning views over Lisbon and the Tagus River. Visitors can explore the castle’s ancient walls, towers, and beautiful gardens.
The site also includes archaeological remains and a small museum, adding to its rich historical significance.
Time: 1 hour ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm ⏐ Website ⏐💲Price: $16.23. Purchase online or at entrance ⏐
⭐Popular Lisbon Tours
2. Alfama Viewpoints
For one of the most famous viewpoints in Alfama, make your way to Miradouro de Senhora de Monte.
This free lookout offers one of the most striking panoramas of Lisbon’s skyline. I love any Lisbon views that include its iconic orange rooftops and the teal Tagus River.
On a clear day, you can see as far as the 25 de Abril Bridge. Relax on the benches and soak in the beauty of this city!
3. Rossio Square
Rossio Square is a historical plaza and marks the starting point for most free Lisbon walking tours. I always recommend free walking tours while traveling. It’s an especially great solo travel tip to get your bearings set in a new city!
Rossio Square is surrounded by colorful and charming architecture, including the famous Rossio Station.
It’s also home to one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks – the National Theatre D. Maria II.
Time: Walk through ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 24 hours ⏐💲Price: Free Plaza ⏐
4. Santa Justa Lift
Santa Justa Lift is a historic elevator that connects the Baixa district with the higher Carmo neighborhood.
Built in 1902, it features a striking iron design and offers great views of the city from the top.
Visitors can take the lift or climb the stairs for a panoramic view of Lisbon. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially with the backdrop of São Jorge Castle.
I decided not to wait in the long line for the elevator, so I admired the detailed ironwork and tall height of the 147-foot lift.
It looks like something from the 19th century, just like the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris. Oui!
Time: Varies ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 7:00am – 10:45pm ⏐💲Price: 5.30€ to ride the lift
5. Rua Augusta Arch
Rua Augusta Arch is a neoclassical landmark at the end of Rua Augusta. It was built to commemorate the rebuilding of the city after the 1755 earthquake.
The arch offers views of the Baixa district, the river, and the surrounding area.
Its detailed sculptures and historical significance make it an important stop in Lisbon.
Tip: Praca de Comercial, the biggest plaza in Lisbon, is just past the arch.
Time: Walk through ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 24 hours ⏐💲Price: Free ⏐
6. Belem Tower
Next up, make your way to Lisbon’s Belem neighborhood. Hop on a Bolt, Uber, or catch public transportation from Alfama to get here.
Belém Tower is a historic fortress located along the Tagus River. Built in the early 16th century, it was originally designed to defend the city.
The tower is a fine example of Manueline architecture, with intricate details and a stunning riverside location.
Visitors can explore its various levels and climb to the top for views of the river and surrounding area.
Time: 1.5 hours ⏐ 🕑 Hours: ☀️ Summer: 10:00am-6:30pm. ❄️ Winter: 10:00am-5:30pm. ⏐ Website ⏐ 💲Price: Free to explore outside. €6 to enter inside⏐
7. Jeronimos Monastery
Around the corner is UNESCO World Heritage Site Part 2: The Jeronimos Monastery.
This is a must-see for anyone visiting Lisbon for the first time. The monastery is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture known as the Manueline style, named after King Manuel I.
Inside, you’ll be in awe of the ornate columns and the vaulted ceilings of the church.
Time: 1.5 hours ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 9:30am – 6:00pm ⏐ Website ⏐💲Price: Free. Paid options for garden ⏐
8. Eat Pastel De Nata
Time for a snack after all that history. But not just any snack- it’s pastel de nata.
These custard are a Portuguese delicacy and a must-try in Lisbon.
Head to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, just a few minutes walk from the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.
The historic bakery has been delighting visitors with these iconic tarts since 1837.
Served warm, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar, their Pastel de Nata is where it’s at!
Psssst. Want to enjoy more pastels de nata? Try spending 4 days in Lisbon!
Time: 30 minutes (Depends on the wait time) ⏐ 🕑 Hours: 8:00am – 9:00pm ⏐ Website ⏐
Conclusion
Lisbon in just two days is totally doable!
With not one but TWO UNESCO World Heritage sites, views for days, and enchanting cobblestone neighborhoods, Lisbon has got it all.
Sure, the hills might give your calves a good workout, but everything is close enough for an unforgettable 48-hour Portuguese escapade.
Vamos (let’s go)!
