3 days in Lisbon
Seven hills, yellow trams and the sweet ache of fado. A 3-day plan.
Lisbon is sunlit and a little faded in the best way: tiled façades, viewpoints called miradouros, and custard tarts still warm from the oven.
Day by day
Day 1: Alfama and the castle
Ride tram 28 early, visit São Jorge Castle, wander Alfama's stairways and hear fado at night.
Day 2: Belém and LX Factory
See Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, eat custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém, then browse LX Factory and end in Cais do Sodré.
Day 3: Sintra
Take the train to Sintra for its palaces and gardens, returning for sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Make it work
- Best months: Mar–Jun, Sep–Oct. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Pastéis de Belém, Cervejaria Ramiro, Time Out Market.
- Getting around: Lisbon is steep: wear good shoes.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.