Simplified and Efficient 2-Day Itinerary in Lisbon

The capital of Portugal is a city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. With our simplified 2-day itinerary in Lisbon, let yourself be surprised by the different facets of the city.

Friday

Afternoon: City Center, Baixa Chiado and Surroundings

• Parque Eduardo VII:
  Start your stay with a stunning panoramic view of the city and a walk through Portuguese flora before heading to the most luxurious avenue in Portugal, “Avenida da Liberdade.”
  
• Baixa Chiado:
  Head to the lively Baixa Chiado district, the beating heart of the city. Stroll through its shopping streets and admire the typical Portuguese architecture with a must-have photo stop at the Santa Justa Elevator and the Arco da Rua Augusta.
  
• Praça do Comércio:
  Then, head to the majestic Praça do Comércio, one of the largest squares in Europe, located on the edge of the Tagus River.
  
• Ribeira das Naus:
  Enjoy a walk along Ribeira das Naus, a pleasant esplanade along the river.

Late Afternoon and Evening: Cais do Sodré and Miradouro de Santa Catarina, the Vibrant Heart

• Cais do Sodré:
  Head to Cais do Sodré, a trendy neighborhood known for its nightlife. Visit the Time Out Market, an indoor market where you can taste local specialties prepared by renowned chefs.
  
• Miradouro de Santa Catarina:
  To end the day beautifully, go to the Miradouro de Santa Catarina to admire a magnificent sunset over the city and the river. Fado Dinner: Finish your evening with dinner in a Fado restaurant. Fado is a Portuguese musical genre, and attending a live performance is a unique and moving experience.
  Alternatively, you can go bar and club hopping from Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré, passing through Bica and Pink Street.

Google maps itinerary

Saturday

Morning: Exploring the Old Neighborhoods, the Soul of Lisbon

• Mouraria, Graça, and Alfama:
  Start your day by exploring the old neighborhoods of Lisbon. Mouraria, Graça, and Alfama are emblematic places full of charm and history.
  
• Feira da Ladra:
  Don’t miss the Feira da Ladra, the famous flea market in Lisbon, where you can find antique items and unique souvenirs at the foot of the National Pantheon.

Google maps itinerary

Afternoon: Discovering Belém and Flirting with the River

• Belém:
  Spend your afternoon in the historic district of Belém. Visit iconic monuments like the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Quais de Belém: Stroll along the Belém Quays, where you can enjoy the view of the Tagus River.
  
• LX Factory:
  Then, head to LX Factory, a rehabilitated industrial complex turned cultural and artistic space, where you’ll find trendy shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
  
• Tagus River Cruise or Rooftop:
  End your afternoon with a cruise on the Tagus River to admire Lisbon from the water or on a rooftop to discover another angle of the city. Dance Until Dawn: Dance until the early hours in one of the city’s clubs.

Google maps itinerary

Sunday

Morning: Before Leaving Lisbon

• Parque das Nações:
  If you have some time before your flight, spend the morning at Parque das Nações, located just 10 minutes from the airport. This modern neighborhood, built for the 1998 World Expo, offers attractions such as the Lisbon Oceanarium and the cable car that overlooks the river, as well as the large Vasco da Gama shopping center and incredible architecture. You can leave your luggage at Oriente Station while you explore.
  Google maps itinerary

• Cristo Rei:
  Alternatively, you can visit the National Sanctuary of Cristo Rei, a monumental statue that offers a spectacular panoramic view of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
  Google maps itinerary

Must-Try Foods in Lisbon

Local Gastronomy:

• Pastéis de Nata:
  Enjoy these famous Portuguese pastries, preferably at Pastéis de Belém, where they have been made according to a secret recipe since 1837.
  
• Bifanas:
  Try this typical Portuguese sandwich made with marinated and spiced pork, perfect for a snack.
  
• Polvo a Lagareiro:
  A traditional dish of octopus cooked with olive oil and garlic, a true delight.
  
• Bacalhau in Any Recipe:
  As long as it includes potatoes and olive oil. A staple of Portuguese cuisine.

Local Drinks:

• Ginja:
  Taste this cherry liqueur, preferably served by an elderly lady in the streets of Alfama, in a chocolate cup for an even more authentic and delicious experience.
  
• Vinho Verde:
  Accompany your meals with a glass of Vinho Verde, a light and refreshing Portuguese wine. It also pairs well with an appetizer of octopus salad or a bifana!
  
• Dois Corvos:
  Beer produced in Lisbon in the Marvila district.
  

With this 2-day itinerary, you can discover the many facets of Lisbon, combining history, culture, gastronomy, and relaxation. Enjoy your stay in this luminous city!

Top 6 Means of Transport to Explore the City

• On Foot
• Uber / Bolt
• Tuktuk
• Boat
• Electric Scooter (watch out for tram tracks)
• Electric Bike

Tips:

Wear good shoes. Get into the habit of searching on Google Maps for nearby “miradouros.” Adapt your stay to your accommodation and current cultural events. For simplified activity planning, restaurant reservations, or a customized itinerary with a PDF in hand, contact me!

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