Hey there, travellers! As many of my clients often ask me for tips on how to make the most of their time in Lisbon, I decided to write this little guide to help you plan a perfect 3-day itinerary.
Whether you're staying for just a few days or you’re looking to explore even further, here are some insider tips and must-see spots to experience Lisbon like a local.
And of course, if you're looking for private tours or transfers, I’d be more than happy to help through Portugal Journeys with Peppe. Let’s dive into it!
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Lisbon
On your first day, let's start with the essentials:
Morning: Alfama & Castelo de São Jorge Start your day in Alfama, the oldest and one of the most charming neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Stroll through its narrow, cobbled streets, and you’ll be surrounded by history. Make your way up to the Castelo de São Jorge, where you'll get a fantastic panoramic view over the city and the Tagus River. Be sure to take your time here — it's a photographer’s dream!
After exploring the castle, wander down through the streets of Alfama and make a stop at the Sé Cathedral, Lisbon's oldest church. Feeling hungry? There are plenty of small local taverns where you can try some traditional petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and a glass of local wine.
Baixa-Chiado: explore the elegant streets of Rua Augusta, take in the stunning views from the Arco da Rua Augusta, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through Praça do Comércio at Terreiro do Paço, where the grand architecture meets the riverfront, offering a perfect spot to soak in Lisbon’s vibrant atmosphere.
Lunch: Time Out Market For lunch, head over to Time Out Market in the Cais do Sodré area. It’s the perfect spot to sample a wide variety of Portuguese dishes all under one roof. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, traditional bacalhau (salted cod), or a sweet pastel de nata, this place has you covered.
Afternoon: Belém District After lunch, it’s time to visit one of the most iconic parts of Lisbon: Belém. Hop on a tram (or if you prefer a private transfer, just reach out to me!) and head towards the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Belém is also home to the famous Pastéis de Belém, the best place in the world to try the legendary custard tarts. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!
Evening: Fado in Alfama End your first day by experiencing some real Portuguese culture — Fado music. Alfama is known for its Fado houses, where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese music while savouring a delicious meal.
I can recommend some fantastic spots or even arrange a dinner reservation and transfer for you through just reach out.
Day 2: Sintra and Cascais Day Trip
You can’t visit Lisbon without taking a day trip to the magical town of Sintra and the coastal beauty of Cascais. This is one of the most requested tours I offer through Portugal Journeys with Peppe — and for good reason!
Morning: Sintra’s Palaces Start your day early and head to Pena Palace in Sintra, a colourful fairytale palace perched on top of the hills. You'll feel like you've stepped into a fantasy world. If you’re travelling with me, I’ll make sure we beat the crowds and get the best views! After exploring Pena, head to the Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious palace with gardens, underground tunnels, and the iconic Initiation Well.
Lunch: We can stop at one of my favourite local spots in Sintra or near for a relaxing lunch before we continue to our next stop. I always know where to find the freshest seafood or the best traditional Portuguese dishes!
Afternoon: Cascais & Cabo da Roca After lunch, we’ll drive along the scenic coastline to Cascais, a charming seaside town where you can stroll along the beach or enjoy a coffee by the marina. On the way, we can stop at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. The views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking, and it’s the perfect place for a memorable photo!
Evening: Return to Lisbon After a full day of exploring, we’ll head back to Lisbon. If you need a private transfer, I’ve got you covered with Portugal Journeys with Peppe. You’ll be back at your hotel in time to relax and enjoy a quiet evening.
Day 3: Discover Lisbon’s Modern Side
For your final day, let’s explore the more modern side of Lisbon.
Morning: Parque das Nações Start the day at Parque das Nações, the site of the 1998 World Expo. This area is home to some incredible modern architecture, including the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe — a great spot for families or marine lovers.
Lunch: Mercado de Campo de Ourique Head to Mercado de Campo de Ourique for lunch, a lesser-known market frequented by locals. It’s a great alternative to the more tourist-heavy Time Out Market, offering delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Afternoon: LX Factory After lunch, visit LX Factory, a trendy area filled with street art, boutique shops, and cafes. It’s a great spot to pick up some unique souvenirs and enjoy the creative vibe of Lisbon’s younger generation.
Evening: Sunset at Miradouros On your last evening, head to one of Lisbon’s famous Miradouros (viewpoints) to watch the sunset. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro de Santa Catarina offer stunning views over the city. If you’re up for it, we can arrange a quick sunset tour and finish the day with a drink at one of the rooftop bars in the area.
By the end of your 3 days in Lisbon, you’ll have experienced both the historical and modern sides of the city, as well as a bit of the beautiful surrounding regions.
Whether you need private transfers, guided tours, or insider recommendations, Portugal Journeys with Peppe is here to make your trip unforgettable!
Feel free to reach out if you’d like me to personally guide you through these experiences — I’m always happy to help you create the perfect journey through Portugal!
