Introduction
Lisbon is a city that invites you to slow down. With its seven hills, the Tagus at its feet and a light that has inspired so many artists, the Portuguese capital is a destination to be savoured at every corner. Forget the rushing and the over-ambitious plans. The proposal here is different: a 3-day itinerary to live Lisbon authentically, stress-free and with time for what really matters.
Day 1: The Historic Heart of Lisbon
Day one is for getting (pleasantly) lost in the historic centre. Start at Baixa Pombalina, with its elegant architecture and the imposing Praça do Comércio. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for a first panoramic view of the city and the river.
From there, stroll through Chiado, the neighbourhood of bookshops and storied cafés. Take the obligatory photo with Fernando Pessoa at A Brasileira and pop into Livraria Bertrand, the oldest bookshop in the world. Keep climbing until you reach Largo do Carmo, where the ruins of the Carmo Convent remind us of the force of the 1755 earthquake.
End the day exploring the alleys of Alfama and climbing up to São Jorge Castle. The views from the castle in the late afternoon are something special. For dinner, venture into one of Alfama’s many tascas for grilled fish and, who knows, a fado vadio session.
Day 2: Discoveries and Modernity
Day two takes us to Belém, the neighbourhood of the Discoveries. Hop on tram 15 and start at the majestic Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Right next door, don’t miss the chance to try the famous Pastéis de Belém.
Then walk along the riverfront to the Belém Tower and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. They’re two of Lisbon’s most famous postcards, and it’s easy to see why.
In the afternoon, take a bus or train to Parque das Nações, the most modern part of the city, built for Expo ’98. Here, the main attraction is the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest and most impressive in Europe. If you have time, a cable car ride offers sweeping views over the Tagus and the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
Day 3: Street Art and Stunning Views
For day three, our suggestion is to start at LX Factory, an old industrial complex turned creative hub, with shops, restaurants and plenty of street art. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed brunch.
In the afternoon, explore Bairro Alto, which during the day has a quiet vibe, very different from its night-time buzz. Climb up to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for another incredible view over the city.
To end your trip in style, how about a sunset boat trip on the Tagus? There are several options available and it’s an unforgettable way to say goodbye to Lisbon.
What you should know before you go
- Transport: Lisbon has a good public transport network, including metro, buses and the famous trams. The Lisboa Card can be a good option if you’re planning to visit lots of monuments and use transport often.
- Tickets: For the most popular attractions, like the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the Oceanarium, buying tickets online in advance can save you queueing time.
- Footwear: You’ll be walking a lot and the Portuguese cobblestone streets can be slippery. Bring comfortable shoes!
Where Multipark fits in
Exploring Lisbon by car can be a challenge, especially in the historic centre. If you’re arriving in the city by car, the best plan is to park it somewhere safe and convenient and then explore the city on foot and by public transport. Multipark offers parking solutions that let you leave your car at the entrance of the city and continue on without worries.
Conclusion
Three days in Lisbon is the ideal amount of time to get a taste of the city and, very likely, leave you wanting to come back. This itinerary is just a starting point. The best of Lisbon is really letting yourself be carried by its unique atmosphere and discovering its secrets at your own pace.
