How to Spend 48 Hours in Lisbon: 2-Day Itinerary

Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital, blends history, scenic views, and a thriving cultural scene, making it ideal for a two-day getaway. With just 48 hours in Lisbon, you can explore iconic spots like the Alfama district, Belém Tower, and more. This guide offers a carefully planned itinerary, including the best times to visit top attractions, local travel tips, and even a few hidden gems to ensure a memorable Lisbon experience.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Historic Sights: Explore Alfama district, São Jorge Castle, and Lisbon Cathedral for a deep dive into Lisbon’s past.
Scenic Viewpoints: Enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Portas do Sol, and the Santa Justa Elevator.
Must-Try Foods: Savor Lisbon’s famous Pastéis de Belém and sample Portuguese dishes at Time Out Market.
Modern Culture: Visit LX Factory for street art, shopping, and unique dining options.
Evening Options: Conclude with a sunset cruise on the Tagus River or a rooftop bar for beautiful night views.

What is the best way to spend 48 hours in Lisbon?

To make the most of 48 hours in Lisbon, start in the Alfama district for historic sites like Lisbon Cathedral and enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Spend the afternoon at São Jorge Castle and the Time Out Market. On Day 2, explore Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, try the famous Pastéis de Belém, and visit LX Factory for a modern cultural experience. End your trip with a sunset cruise on the Tagus River or a visit to a rooftop bar for beautiful evening views of the city.

Day 1: Exploring Historic and Iconic Sights

Morning: Discover the Alfama District and Lisbon Cathedral

Start your journey in the Alfama district, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood known for its winding streets and traditional architecture. Begin at Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), the city’s oldest church with Romanesque and Gothic design elements. Admire the interior, including the stunning rose window, before heading to the nearby viewpoints.

Best Viewpoints: Walk to Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol for panoramic views of the Alfama rooftops and the Tagus River.
Local Tip: Early morning is the best time to visit Alfama to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.

Midday: São Jorge Castle and Lunch at Time Out Market

After soaking up the views, make your way up to São Jorge Castle. This historical fortress offers one of the best vantage points over Lisbon. Wander through the grounds, explore the ancient walls, and enjoy the views from its towers.

Insider Tip: Arrive close to opening hours for a quieter experience and easier access to the best viewpoints within the castle.

For lunch, head to the Time Out Market near Cais do Sodré. This popular food hall features a variety of stalls serving Portuguese food, from seafood dishes to traditional pastries. It’s a great spot to sample Lisbon’s culinary offerings in one place.

Evening: Bairro Alto and Fado Music

As the sun sets, make your way to Bairro Alto for a mix of dining and nightlife options. For a traditional Lisbon experience, attend a Fado music performance in this historic district. Fado, a soulful Portuguese genre, captures the city’s spirit and provides a unique cultural experience.

Where to Go: Look for small, authentic Fado bars for an intimate Fado Music Show experience or book a performance at one of the larger venues like Clube de Fado.
Dinner Options: Try local dishes like grilled sardines or bacalhau (salted cod) at one of Bairro Alto’s many restaurants.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration and Modern Highlights

Morning: Belém – Tower, Monastery, and Pastéis de Belém

Start your second day in the historic Belém area. Begin with Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Portugal’s maritime history. This iconic tower, located on the Tagus River, offers a beautiful view of the river and the surrounding area.

Next, visit Jerónimos Monastery, known for its stunning Manueline architecture and connection to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The monastery’s intricate carvings and grand cloisters are a must-see.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines at both attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Before leaving Belém, stop at the famous bakery to try Pastéis de Belém, Portugal’s beloved custard tarts. Freshly baked daily, these pastries are best enjoyed warm and with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Midday: LX Factory

Head to LX Factory in the Alcântara district for a unique experience in modern Lisbon. This former industrial complex is now a creative hub filled with street art, boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes. It’s a great spot to explore Lisbon’s contemporary side.

Highlights: Don’t miss the Ler Devagar bookstore, known for its creative design and art installations.
Dining Options: LX Factory has several cafes and restaurants where you can grab lunch, from casual spots to more upscale options.

Evening: Santa Justa Elevator and Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River

In the evening, take a ride on the Santa Justa Elevator in the Baixa district. This 19th-century elevator connects the lower Baixa streets with Carmo Square, offering fantastic views over the city and the castle.

For a memorable end to your two-day Lisbon itinerary, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River. Many boat operators offer evening cruises, some with live music or drinks included, allowing you to take in Lisbon’s stunning skyline as the sun sets.

Alternative Option: If you prefer to stay on land, visit one of Lisbon’s rooftop bars, like Rio Maravilha at LX Factory, for scenic views and a relaxed evening.

Optional Activities and Tips

Alternative Viewpoints and Day Trips

If you have extra time, consider exploring less crowded viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for panoramic views of Lisbon or taking a day trip to Sintra for fairy-tale palaces and lush landscapes.

Day Trip Highlights: Sintra’s Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira are beautiful and accessible by train from Lisbon.
Nearby Beaches: Cascais, a charming coastal town, is just a 30-minute train ride from Lisbon and offers a mix of beach activities and seafood dining.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit: Spring and early fall offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Visiting popular sites early in the day helps avoid peak crowds.
Public Transport: Lisbon’s metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around. Consider purchasing a 24-hour travel pass to save on transportation.
Tram 28: Take Lisbon’s famous Tram 28 for a scenic route through historic neighborhoods, but be mindful of pickpockets on this popular tourist line.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a city that effortlessly combines historical charm with modern attractions, making it perfect for a two-day visit. This itinerary covers the highlights, from iconic landmarks like Belém Tower and São Jorge Castle to cultural experiences with Fado music and unique spots like LX Factory. Ready to experience Lisbon’s best in just 48 hours? Start exploring and let this beautiful city capture your heart!

Enjoy Lisbon with MegaPass

Make the most of your time in Lisbon with the MegaPass, an all-in-one pass that gives you access to the city’s top attractions and seamless transportation. Available in 24H, 48H, and 72H options, the MegaPass covers everything from public transportation to guided tours.

Included with the MegaPass:

Combo Tickets: Explore Lisbon’s essentials with access to Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle.
Pena Palace & Sintra Tours: Take the hassle out of visiting Sintra with guided tours to Pena Palace and other iconic sites.
City & Museum Access: Enjoy admission to top Lisbon museums and Sintra museums, perfect for history and culture lovers.
Sailing/Boat Tours & Tuk Tuk Tours: Discover Lisbon from the water with sailing tours or ride through the city’s charming neighborhoods with tuk-tuk tours.
Food & Wine Tours: Experience Lisbon’s culinary delights with guided food and wine tours, including tastings of local specialties.
Fado Music Show: Dive into Portugal’s musical heritage with an authentic Fado show.
Airport Transfers: Start your trip stress-free with Lisbon airport transfers in the pass.

The MegaPass is ideal for travelers looking to explore Lisbon’s highlights without worrying about separate tickets. It offers flexibility, convenience, and significant savings, helping you get the most out of your Lisbon adventure. Plan your visit with the MegaPass and enjoy the best the city has to offer!