5 Days in Lisbon, Portugal: The Perfect Itinerary (2024)
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Ready to spend 5 days in Lisbon? This itinerary will help you plan out everything you need to do during your 5 days in Lisbon, Portugal including a day-by-day itinerary and day trip options!
Planning your 5-Day Lisbon Itinerary last minute?
No time to read the full itinerary? Here are some of Lisbon’s top activities, tours, hotels, and more! Top Tours and Activities in Lisbon : 1. Full-Day Lisbon Tuk-Tuk Tour – see all of Lisbon’s sights on this locally-guided tuk-tuk tour! 2. The Best Lisbon Food Tour – learn about Lisbon while sampling its best food & drinks! 3. Fado in Chiado – you can’t visit Lisbon without attending a Fado show! 4. Sintra & Cascais Day Trip – the most popular day trip from Lisbon 5. Jerónimos Monastery – one of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks 6. Belém Tower – another key Lisbon landmark 7. Lisbon Sunset Sightseeing Cruise – the perfect way to end a day of exploring Lisbon Best Places to Stay in Lisbon: 1. Sao Vicente Alfama – one of the top-rated Lisbon hotels that’s also very affordable, my #1 pick! 2. Blue Liberdade Hotel – another perfectly located and highly rated Lisbon hotel 3. Lisboa Central Hostel – Lisbon’s best hostel, with dorms and private rooms
Lisbon, Portugal, is one of the most captivating cities in Europe.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine, a visit to Lisbon promises an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re visiting Lisbon as part of a longer trip to Portugal or elsewhere in Europe, visiting on a long weekend while studying abroad in Europe , or are planning a Lisbon city break, spending 5 days exploring Lisbon is a great way to get an introduction to the city.
With 5 days in Lisbon, you’ll have time to get a good feel for the city itself and see its top sights, as well as time to take a couple of day trips!
To help with planning the perfect Lisbon itinerary, Marga from Discover Portugal put together this ultimate 5-Day Lisbon itinerary.
Marga is a travel writer and photographer who has made Portugal her home, so you could say she’s an expert on how to plan the perfect Lisbon itinerary.
Keep reading for tips on how to plan a perfect 5 days in Lisbon, including a day-by-day itinerary with everything to see and do on each day, travel tips, day trip ideas, and more !
Table of Contents
The Perfect 5-Day Lisbon Itinerary
Are you ready to spend 5 days in Lisbon, seeing the best the city has to offer?
This itinerary will help you make the most of your 5 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon itinerary includes all of the most famous attractions and must-do activities without being too jam-packed.
Day 1: Explore the Old Part of Lisbon
Start your Lisbon itinerary in the historic neighborhood of Alfama, a place full of cobblestone streets, alleyways, and Fado restaurants.
This area is home to some of Lisbon’s most well-known sites.
The Cathedral of Lisbon, Sé de Lisboa , is a must-see, and you can even ride Tram 28 towards one of the nicest viewpoints in town: Miradouro da Graça.
Take a look in the next-door church or start making your way towards São Jorge Castle . There you’ll find another fabulous viewpoint over the city waiting for you, and you can walk along the city walls.
After the castle, you can enjoy a lovely view from Miradouro de Santa Luzia, one of the most famous ones in Lisbon, thanks to the colorful bougainvilleas.
Are you in Alfama on a Tuesday or Saturday? Then you can visit the flea market Feira da Ladra, one of the city’s oldest markets.
If you’re interested in churches and the famous azulejo tiles, Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, the Pantheon, and the Azulejo Museum (National Tile Museum) are well worth your time. Or head to Mouraria, where you can find some amazing restaurants and quirky cafes.
Day 2: The Seven Hills of Lisbon
Lisbon is built on seven hills, and after discovering the old part of Alfama on one hill, it’s time to visit another one.
Baixa (the Lower Town) is an area in downtown Lisbon. From here, you can take the famous Santa Justa elevator towards Chiado and Bairro Alto. You’ll be amazed by the view from the top!
Discover the Carmo Convent, enjoy a pastel de nata at Manteigaria , and visit the oldest operating bookstore in the world: Livraria Bertrand . If you buy a book, they will even stamp it for you!
In Rua do Cormo, you’ll discover high-street shops, whereas if you walk towards Avenida da Liberdade, you’ll find luxury brands.
Even if you want to avoid going shopping, it’s worth exploring this area as this street is stunning! The pavement, for example, has beautiful designs, and this is known as calçada portuguesa or simply calçada .
From Avenida da Liberdade, you can take a historical funicular towards Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, from which you have a beautiful view over Baixa and the castle in Alfama.
Explore Príncipe Real, the botanical garden, if you need a break or the hustle and bustle in Bairro Alto.
If you like going out, this area, as well as Pink Street, are places to be. Or bring a drink to Miradouro de Santa Catarina, where you can see a beautiful sunset over the river.
Príncipe Real is a great spot filled with restaurants and bars, such as Restaurante Pica-Pau , Madam Bō , and Lost In .
Don’t skip a visit to EmbaiXada if you like shopping but also want to admire a stunning building! It was once a 19th-century palace but is now in use as a shopping mall.
The pastry shop São Roque is an equally stunning building on the other side of the street. Order a coffee and marvel at the beauty of this pastry shop!
End your second day in Lisbon with Fado in Chiado , one of the city’s most famous Fado shows. This is a must for your Lisbon bucket list!
⭐️ BOOK NOW: Fado in Chiado Skip-the-Line Tickets
Day 3: Take a Day Trip from Lisbon to Magical Sintra
Day 3 of your Lisbon itinerary is going to be a long day, but one that is totally worth it.
Sintra is located only 40 minutes from Lisbon, and the area is known for its palaces and gardens. Most famous, and therefore also the busiest, are Pena Palace , the Moorish Castle , and Quinta da Regaleira.
Booking your tour or tickets upfront is a must, especially in the high season. You’ll get a time slot to visit the palaces, and the gardens are filled with unique trees, flowers, fountains, and grottoes.
Most visitors just visit the palaces, but the gardens are equally stunning and less busy.
Many tour companies ( including this one ) offer a combination to visit Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira as well as the most western point of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca.
Your day will finish in the beach town of Cascais.
This full-day Sintra and Cascais tour from Lisbon is one of the best. It includes hotel pick-up in Lisbon as well as stops at Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and more.
BOOK NOW: Sintra & Cascais Full Day Tour from Lisbon
If you don’t want to book a tour, you can also visit Sintra easily by yourself. There are trains from the Lisbon city center that will bring you to Sintra town.
Sintra is also home to some nice souvenir shops. Still trying to figure out what to get for your loved ones? Portugal has some amazing souvenirs for you.
Sintra town also boasts some good restaurants and other sights. Some must-sees and dos include Sintra National Palace , Parque da Liberdade, and trying a queijada at Queijadas da Sapa.
If you prefer a more relaxed visit to Sintra, you can opt to visit some lesser-known palaces and sights that will be far less busy and just as beautiful!
Examples are Parque e Palácio de Monserrate , Biester Palace, Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz , and the Convent of the Capuchos.
These places are easy to reach by Uber as driving a car can be tricky in Sintra town. But if you want to explore the Atlantic Coast for the day, a car is the easiest way to travel.
With a car, you can easily visit places like Praia das Maçãs and Azenhas do Mar.
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is also loved by hikers. There, you’ll find many different trails to explore. Just be mindful that it can get boiling hot there in the summer, and the hills can be challenging.
Day 4: Belém
On day 4 of your 5 days in Lisbon, you can start exploring the western part of Lisbon – a neighborhood called Belém.
Start your day at the LX Factory , where you can find some amazing local stores, eateries, and a unique bookshop.
LX Factory is a creative and hip area that was once an old industrial textile complex. It’s located underneath the Ponte de 25 Abril Bridge, which is already very close to Belém.
This neighborhood is much loved for its museums like Museu Coleção Berardo and MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology), both filled with modern art.
You can also discover the many carriages that were mostly used by the royal family in the National Coach Museum .
A relatively new museum in the area is Quake , where you can relive the 1755 earthquake that struck Lisbon and the rest of Portugal.
Most people come to Belém though to see the Jerónimos Monastery .
You can visit the church as well as the monastery, which is built in the beautiful late Gothic Manueline style.
The monks in this monastery are responsible for the original pastel de nata recipe. At the nearby Pastéis de Belém , you can still try them!
Afterward, you can visit Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a monument reminding of the times of the Portuguese Navigators.
Then, walk towards Belém Tower , one of Europe’s most famous landmarks . You can even purchase tickets to go inside and climb the tower.
The best way to end your day in Belém is by enjoying a boat tour on the river Tagus. You’ll enjoy the best sunset, and from the shores, you’ll enjoy a whole other perspective of Lisbon.
You can choose from a traditional sunset sightseeing cruise , or opt for a sunset party boat cruise that has a DJ and a bar.
⭐️ This is the best Lisbon sunset sightseeing cruise !
Day 5: Take a Day Trip from Lisbon
If you have 5 full days to spend in Lisbon, your 5th day is perfect for escaping the city and taking a nice day trip.
One of the most popular day trips from Lisbon takes you to Óbidos, Fatima, and Nazaré all in one day.
Óbidos is a walled city that was once a gift to King Denis’s wife, Isabel.
Try a cherry-tasting liquor Ginjinha, walk along the castle walls, or enjoy one of the many festivals they celebrate throughout the year.
The Medieval Festival (held in July), the Chocolate Festival (held in April or May), and the Christmas Village (one of Europe’s best Christmas markets – typically open from late November through December 31) are especially worth visiting if you’re visiting while they’re on.
Fatima is a religious place of pilgrimage, and Nazaré is known for the huge waves surfers try to master.
⭐️ BOOK NOW: Óbidos, Fatima, and Nazaré Day Trip
Other places worth visiting north of Lisbon are Tomar, Santarém, Coimbra, Mafra, and Batalha.
There are also great day trip options south of Lisbon. If you want to enjoy a day in nature, you can enjoy an excursion to Parque Natural da Arrábida or the Sado Estuary.
If you prefer visiting a city, Évora is the perfect choice.
This city has many historical highlights, such as the Roman Temple, the Cathedral of Évora, and the Chapel of Bones.
The chapel is adorned with skulls and bones of monks – it’s a pretty remarkable sight!
Évora is located in the Alentejo region, known for its wine. After you visit the city, it’s great to see one of the many wineries in the area.
You’ll learn more about Portuguese grapes, how the wine is made, and of course, you get to drink it!
⭐️ BOOK NOW: Évora Day Trip from Lisbon
5 Days in Lisbon: Top Lisbon Travel Tips
Ready to start planning the details of your Lisbon itinerary? Here are some helpful Lisbon travel tips!
When to Visit Lisbon
Lisbon is a year-round destination, so you really can’t go wrong with visiting during any season.
The winters are mild, and there are some lovely Christmas Markets in December.
In May and June, the flowers start blooming.
The summers can be pretty hot, but there are always beaches nearby. Visit Costa da Caparica, for example, or discover the many beaches along the line between Lisbon and Cascais.
Praia de Santo Amaro, Praia de Carcavelos, and Praia do Tamariz are perfect to cool down!
In September, the weather gets colder again, and the city gets less busy (and cheaper to visit!).
Where to Stay in Lisbon: Hotel and Hostel Recommendations
Trying to decide where to stay in Lisbon? The city is home to lots of great hotels and affordable hostels to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:
Blue Liberdade Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 9.8/10
This hotel, perfectly located between Alfama and Bairro Alto, is one of the top-rated hotels in all of Lisbon. This is the perfect place to stay if you’re visiting Lisbon for the first time and are looking for a conveniently-located hotel.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at Blue Liberdade Hotel
Sao Vicente Alfama by TRIUS Hotels
Another of Lisbon’s top-rated hotels, this charming hotel also has some of the most affordable rates. The location is excellent too – it’s right in the heart of Alfama.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at Sao Vicente Alfama
Lisboa Central Hostel
⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for the best hostel in Lisbon? Look no further than Lisboa Central Hostel. This hostel, perfect for solo or budget travelers, has both shared dorms and private rooms. They also offer free breakfast, free walking tours , and more fun activities to get to know your fellow travelers!
⭐️ Check prices and availability at Lisboa Central Hostel
Getting Around Lisbon
Wondering how to get around Lisbon? Here are some tips:
- Trams and Buses – Lisbon boasts an extensive network of trams and buses that connect various neighborhoods and attractions. The iconic yellow trams are a charming way to travel through the city’s historic quarters. The fare for a single tram or bus ride is quite affordable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Lisbon Metro – The Lisbon Metro is a modern and efficient subway system that covers major parts of the city. It’s a quick and convenient way to move around, especially for longer distances. You can purchase individual tickets or opt for reusable rechargeable cards for multiple trips.
- Funiculars and Elevators – Due to Lisbon’s hilly terrain, the city offers funiculars and elevators to help you ascend its steeper slopes. These unique modes of transport not only get you where you need to go but also provide scenic views of the city.
- Walking – Lisbon is a city best explored on foot, especially in historic districts like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Exploring on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the city and stumble upon cute cafés and hidden gems.
- Rental Bikes (Gira Bikes) – Lisbon’s bike-sharing system offers a practical and eco-friendly option for getting around the city. Download the Gira app and grab a bike at one of the many stations, cycle along the riverside or through parks, and soak in the city’s beauty at your own pace.
- Taxis and Ride Shares – Taxis are readily available in Lisbon, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are also popular and easily accessible. While they may be more expensive than public transport, they’re very convenient, especially when you want to reach specific destinations quickly.
5 Days in Lisbon: FAQs
Is 5 days in lisbon enough.
Yes, 5 days is the perfect amount of time for your first visit to Lisbon. Spending 5 days in Lisbon allows you the time to visit Lisbon’s tip sights as well as take day trips to nearby places like Sintra or Évora.
Is Lisbon a walkable city?
Yes, Lisbon is very walkable and is best explored on foot. Just be prepared for some steep hills – luckily, there are some elevators and funiculars to help you ascend the steep slopes without tiring out.
Is Lisbon friendly to American tourists?
Yes, Lisbon is generally friendly to American tourists. The locals are welcoming and many speak English. American tourists can explore its charm, immerse in the rich heritage, and experience warm hospitality throughout their visit.
What is the most beautiful part of Lisbon?
The Alfama district is often considered the most beautiful part of Lisbon. Its narrow, winding streets, historic buildings adorned with colorful tiles, and breathtaking views of the Tagus River contribute to the district’s beauty.
Which part of Lisbon is best to stay?
The Baixa or Chiado neighborhoods are ideal places to stay in Lisbon. They are centrally located with easy access to major attractions as well as dining and shopping options. Both areas provide a perfect balance between convenience and immersion in the city’s culture.
Is Uber available in Lisbon?
Yes, Uber is available in Lisbon. You use the same Uber app you use at home to call an Uber in Lisbon. Bolt is another popular ride-hailing app in Lisbon that’s very similar to Uber.
5-Day Lisbon Itinerary: Final Thoughts
Spending 5 days in Lisbon is a great way to get an introduction to this incredible city.
Following this itinerary will maximize your time, seeing everything Lisbon has to offer while allowing for free time and day trips from the city.
After your trip, you’ll be ready to come back to Lisbon to explore even more!
Have you been to Lisbon? What would you add to your 5-day Lisbon itinerary?
After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.
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