What to do in Lisbon for 2 days

Lisbon is Portugal’s lively capital, best known for its diverse and rich culture, its food scene and its stunning architecture. You might be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of attractions, restaurants and things to do and see in Lisbon, but actually you can explore the city easily within two days. We’ve compiled this jam-packed itinerary of what to do during 48 hours in Lisbon, from cultural tours and sightseeing, to wine tasting and historic monuments, as well as where to stay to suit a variety of budgets and preferences!

Where to stay

Luxury: For those of us who want to splash the cash and go all out for accommodation, try the One Palácio Da Anunciada for a dose of luxury.

Mid-Range: Mid-range hotels are often the common choice for travellers, as they are of superb quality but are not too expensive. The Blue Liberdade Hotel is an excellent choice for affordable yet high-quality accommodation in Lisbon. 

Budget: If you’re a little more money conscious, and want somewhere to stay that is good quality but budget-friendly, try Hotel Dublin. 

Boutique: Boutique Hotels are often more unconventionally decorated, and of a much smaller capacity than generic hotels, with varying prices. The Inspira Liberdade Hotel is a great choice for a modern, sophisticated and affordable boutique hotel in Lisbon. 

Where to eat

Lisbon is a culinary hub and foodie’s paradise, with both international cuisines and traditional Portuguese dishes dominating the food menus in most restaurants across the city. Whether you’re staying in self-catered accommodation or want to eat out for breakfast, lunch and dinner, here are the top places to enjoy the best dishes at an affordable price in Lisbon.

Breakfast/Brunch: If there’s one thing Lisbon does well, it’s breakfast or brunch. Head to Zenith for classic bagels, coffees and traditional brunch items, or Brunch Cafe for a perfect blend of sweet and savoury–think full fry-ups, pancakes and granola bowls. 

Lunch: After a busy morning exploring the city, you’ll need to refuel. Tucked away in a narrow alleyway, Floresta Das Escadinhas serves some of the best (and cheapest) seafood in Lisbon. 

Dinner: Cross the bridge or hop in a water taxi to Ponto Final, Lisbon’s most beautifully located restaurant. Tuck into fresh seafood and classic Portuguese dishes. We recommend booking in advance and getting there for sunset. Or, for something a little more upscale, Sala de Corte is known for its steaks.

For something sweet after dinner or lunch, visit the iconic Pasteis de Belem for classic Portuguese pastel de nata custard tarts. Don’t forget to visit the Time Out Market food hall.

Where to get your culture fix 

Lisbon’s history and culture date back hundreds of years, meaning it is rife with cultural and historic sites and areas where you can broaden your knowledge and get a true taste of Lisbon's culture. Top sights include Castelo de São Jorge, Belém Tower and Carmo Convent for the ultimate history and culture fix. 

Lisbon is a very walkable city, making it the perfect place for a walking tour, whether self-guided or private. If you’re here for culture or history specifically, a great way to see most if not all of the city’s main sights is to take a water taxi or tour through the city.

Where to drink

If you’re a partygoer and enjoy a wild night out, you’re in luck, as Lisbon has some of the best nightlife in the country. Dance the night away at Pensão Amor or Plateau Nightclub, or head to the beach for a spontaneous beach party or boat party. 

If you’re looking for a more laid-back but memorable night out, why not watch the sunset with your favourite tipple at SEEN Sky Bar. For a hidden gem and unique drinking experience, visit the Red Frog Speakeasy. As for cocktails, you won’t find better than CINCO Bar or Gin Lovers. 

Lisbon is also known for its abundance of specialty coffee houses that are perfect for a morning pick-me-up or mid-afternoon caffeine hit. If you simply want coffee or a sweet treat day or night, you won’t find it better than Fabrica Coffee Roasters.

Where to shop

Lisbon is the shopping capital of Portugal, with shops, markets and restaurants around every corner. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir for friends and family, on the search for some fresh produce to cook in your accommodation or simply just want to browse the goods on offer, there’s no better place than Mercado de Santa Clara or Mercado de Campo de Ourique. 

For a more upscale and varied shopping experience, head to Colombo Shopping Centre, Centro Vasco de Gama or Amoreiras, where you can find everything from entertainment, high-end fashion and products, to cinemas, food courts and more. 

Best day trips from Lisbon 

During your trip, while you will enjoy every corner of Lisbon, you may also want to head further out and explore its surrounding towns and cities for an even deeper insight into and taste of Portuguese culture. Why not consider hiring a car and embarking on a mini road trip to make your trip even more memorable? Here are the best places near Lisbon that you can get to in under an hour. 

Cascais

One of the most popular places for a day trip from Lisbon, Cascais is rife with parks, museums, beaches, historic architecture and restaurants/bars. Cascais is a good option if you’re looking for a similar vibe to Lisbon but without large tourist crowds or higher prices, and it’s only around a 40-minute drive.

Sintra

Another popular destination around a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, Sintra is again another cultural place that’s filled with colourful pastel-coloured buildings, most notably its bright yellow Pena National Palace. The landscape of whimsical and fantasy-style castles crown the surrounding hills of Sintra, and beaches, observation points and historic monuments make Sintra an ideal destination. 

Setúbal

Filled with markets, national parks, beaches and historic landmarks, Setúbal mirrors Lisbon, making it perfect for a more laid-back retreat only a 50-minute drive away. 

Best beach near Lisbon

Praia de Carcavelos beach is a top choice for both locals and tourists alike, thanks to its lively atmosphere, surfing scene and bustling promenade.

48 Hours in Lisbon – Daily Itinerary

Lisbon has just about everything you could ask for. Historic sites to keep history enthusiasts interested, markets and shopping districts for shopaholics or those looking for memorabilia, restaurants and bars for foodies or partygoers, and beaches and parks for those who want a more laid-back day out. With all these top attractions and sights, you may feel a little unsure of where to start, which is why we’ve created this 48-hour itinerary to give you an idea of how best to spend your two days in Lisbon and how to get the absolute most out of your trip by experiencing the city’s cultural, historic and culinary hubs: 

Day 1: The Alfama District: Explore the maze of narrow, sloping, and historic streets for the perfect start to your Lisbon trip

• After breakfast at a top brunch restaurant or food market, waste no time in appreciating Lisbon’s natural beauty and go miradouro (viewpoint) hunting. Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia offer Lisbon’s best views
• History buffs and culture enthusiasts will love Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral and the National Pantheon, which are some of Lisbon’s most iconic and significant buildings– take a self-guided or private walking tour to truly appreciate Lisbon’s architecture. 
• If you’re looking for a unique experience, catch a fado performance: Many restaurants in the Alfama District offer a live fado performance, which is a haunting, melancholic folk music style, the likes of which you’ll likely not have heard before!
• After a busy day, why not end the day at one of Lisbon’s fine dining or casual restaurants for some reasonably priced and delicious food before either staying out and enjoying a cocktail or glass of wine, or heading back to your accommodation.
  
  

Day 2: Culture, artwork, and historic monuments

• After fuelling up for the day ahead at a brunch or breakfast restaurant or simply at your accommodation, the first place you’ll want to go is LX Factory. Nowhere is more unique than this district: Explore independent cafes, galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars in this quirky corner of Lisbon
• Up next are museums: Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Museu de Marinha and National Tile Museum, to be exact. Discover one of the world’s most notable collections of private artwork, learn about Lisbon’s maritime history and marvel at stunning architecture. 
• Once again, a history or sightseeing tour is always a superb way to spend your time. Explore the Belém District– Visit the Monument to the Discoveries, tour the Belém Tower, and stroll around the Jerónimos Monastery.
• End your day with a sunset boat trip: Cruise along the River Tagus, sip local wine or signature cocktails, and enjoy the sunset views.