If you are planning a 4 day trip to Lisbon, you are surely wondering what are the top things to see and do.
The first time I went to Lisbon, I planned to stay 1 week to take my time to discover every nook and cranny of this magnificent city.
But in my opinion, 4 days will be enough if you plan to go to other cities, including cascais and sintra.
With that, I'll let you go through my Lisbon itinerary so that you too can make the most of your trip!
How do I get to Lisbon?
Depending on where you are, I am going to give you several ways to get to Lisbon: from France and from Porto.
Getting to Lisbon from France
As you might expect, the quickest and easiest way to get to Lisbon is by air.
Air ticket prices vary depending on the period and the airline. Off-peak periods are when tickets cost less.
So if you go alone, you will have a better chance of finding cheap tickets.
On the other hand, if you go with your family, you will probably have to pay a little more because you will leave during the high seasons.
Solo Backpacker Tip : plan to plan your next trips a few months in advance, as ticket prices often cost less.
Getting to Lisbon from Porto
The best way to get to Lisbon from Porto in my opinion is by using the bus as a means of transport.
The reason is pretty simple: it's cheap, more comfortable, and more user-friendly.
In Portugal, there is two major bus companies to allow you to travel throughout the country: Rede Expressos and Flixbus.
The rates are much the same, but I prefer Rede Expressos, because it is a Portuguese company and I prefer to finance the local economy. But that's just my personal opinion!
- Travel time : ~3h20 by bus
- Cost : ~8€ the go on busbud
- Departure station : Campanhã Bus Terminal
- Arrival station : Sete Rios Bus Station Lisbon
note : By booking your bus ticket on Busbud, you have two terminals to choose from, Sete Rios and Oriente. I advise you to arrive in Sete Rios for the sake of convenience. You will be much closer to the metro station to head into the heart of Lisbon!
Book your Porto to Lisbon bus ticket with Busbud
Where to stay in Lisbon?
Where to stay in Lisbon: the Alfama district
The Alfama neighborhood is one of the busiest places in Lisbon. And for good reason, it is there that the famous Fado concerts take place, as well as the tourist places that are absolutely worth visiting.
Discover, among other things, the famous Lisbon Cathedral, Saint George's Castle, the National Pantheon, the Santa Luzia Belvedere and many others in this district.
Alfama is also an area where there is much less noise at night, which is more comfortable to spend the night in peace.
Be careful, however, because the streets are quite steep, and you will probably have to make an effort to reach your accommodation. So if you have a suitcase, maybe it would be better to look in another neighborhood.
Here are my recommendations for accommodation in Alfama:
- This is Lisbon Hostel (~30€ per night in a dorm)
Where to stay in Lisbon: the Chiado and Baixa districts
The Chiado district is the heart of Lisbon: restaurants, bars and shops are everywhere in the alleys, as well as its famous Commerce Square and the Santa Justa elevator.
The advantage of being in Chiado is that you will be close to the main tourist spots in a fairly small area. This will allow you to do almost everything on foot if you want to take advantage of the good weather and discover hidden places in Lisbon.
As a result, you will have practically no altitude difference to get home, unlike Alfama where you will probably have to take public transport, which adds an additional cost to your budget.
Speaking of public transport, Chiado and Baixa are very well served by tram, bus and subway.
In short, It is the ideal place to fully enjoy your trip and avoid unnecessary efforts.
Here are my recommendations for accommodations in Chiado and Baixa:
- Home Lisbon Hostel (~33€ per night in a dorm)
- The Central House Lisbon Baixa (~36€ per night in a dorm)
- Lisbon Destination (~30€ per night in a dorm)
Where to stay in Lisbon: the Bairro Alto district
Although the Bairro Alto district is known, in particular for its São Pedro de Alcantara viewpoint, few people know that it is also a very friendly place to stay for a few days.
Walking around Bairro Alto is really nice, because there are secret places there to have a beautiful view of the surroundings of Lisbon, as well as small restaurants and cozy bars that are quite chic.
As with Alfama, the only downside is having to climb the steep alleys, which can be tiring over time.
However, I highly recommend this neighborhood for those looking for authenticity, calm and a less touristy place.
Here are my recommendations for accommodation in Bairro Alto:
- Independente Príncipe Rea (~30€ per night in a dorm)
Where to stay in Lisbon: the Marques de Pombal district
It may not be the neighborhood with the most things to do in the area, but it is still an ideal place to be away from tourist areas.
Apart from Eduardo VII Park, all you'll find around are just business buildings, and a few local restaurants and bakeries.
Nevertheless, I still see some advantages to staying in Marque de Pombal. You'll be in a quiet location all day long, you have the subway nearby, and you'll be able to find nice little restaurants.
Getting to the heart of Lisbon takes only 10 minutes by subway, and 15 minutes on foot.
Here are my recommendations for accommodation in Marques de Pombal:
- Lisboa Central Hostel (~30€ per night in a dorm)
- Green Heart Hostel (~30€ per night in a dorm)
And if you don't find what you're looking for among those I mentioned, you can always search for other accommodations below by playing with the reservation date, location and number of people you are going to travel with !
Things to do in Lisbon: the best places to visit
Explore the must-see Alfama district
Lisbon Cathedral
La Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé de Lisboa, is the oldest religious building in the Portuguese capital, dating from the 12th century.
It is surely one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Portugal. Even though I didn't go inside, I think it's worth the trip considering how popular it is. As with any cathedral, I find that the outside is always more beautiful and photogenic.
Tarif :
- €5 for adults,
- €3 for children aged 7 to 12
- Free for children under 6
Opening hours :
- Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (between October and March)
- Monday to Saturday from 9:30 to 19:00 (between April and September)
- Closed on Sundays and public holidays
Mirador de Santa Luzia
The Mirador de Santa Luzia is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Lisbon, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Alfama district, the river tagus and the city's colorful roofs.
It is one of the places that I enjoy walking the most, because around you are full of small streets where you can get lost and observe the Alfama district in great detail. It is also a great place to take beautiful photos.
Saint George's Castle
The Saint George's Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) is an ancient fortress that offers a exceptional panorama of the capital and the Tagus.
Inside, we discover archaeological remains, a small museum and Peacocks in freedom, adding a picturesque touch to the visit.
I recommend visiting the castle during opening time, as you will have fewer tourists and fewer lines to line up.
Tarif :
- €15 for adults,
- €7.50 for young people aged 13 to 25
- Free for children under 12
Opening hours :
- Every day from 9 am to 9 pm (between October and March)
- Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm (between November and February)
- Closed on January 1, May 1, and December 24 and 25
The National Pantheon of Lisbon
The Lisbon National Pantheon is an imposing Baroque building housing the tombs of great Portuguese figures, such as the Fado singer Amália Rodrigues And the explorer Vasco da Gama.
The visit inside the Pantheon is in my opinion optional if you are not too interested in the emblematic characters of Portugal. Nevertheless, I definitely recommend seeing the Pantheon from the outside which is really beautiful!
The Graça church and its viewpoint
THEIgreja da Graça, one of the oldest churches in Lisbon, stands on one of Seven hills of the city, offering breathtaking views from the Miradouro da Graça.
Its shaded esplanade is perfect for taking a break, making this church an essential site to combine history, spirituality and exceptional panorama.
It is definitely worth visiting them, as you will get a magnificent view of Lisbon from a different perspective. You'll have to go up the hill a bit, but you won't be disappointed once up there!
Mirador da Senhora do Monte
The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte Is one of highest belvederes in Lisbon.
The viewpoint is only a few hundred meters from the Graça Church. I invite you to go there if you are already there. Be careful, because the climb can be a bit steep!
Discover the city center and Baixa
La Praça do Comércio
La Praça do Comércio, one of the most emblematic squares in Lisbon, is located next to tagus, and marks the historic entrance to the city.
It is an essential place of passage, because the square is ideal for strolling, admiring the river or stopping in front of the Tagus to rest or admire the sunset.
Augusta Street
Since the Praça do Comércio, it is the largest and busiest pedestrian street in Lisbon.
Bordered by shops, restaurants and cafes, it is ideal for shopping and strolling.
At the end of the street is theArco da Rua Augusta, an impressive triumphal arch offering a view of the Tagus.
Surely one of the busiest streets, and where you will also find a few scams. If you want to eat in the city center, I invite you to find restaurants in the small streets of the area.
The Santa Justa Lift
Built in 1902 by a student of Gustave Eiffel, the Santa Justa elevator structure made from wrought iron.
You will have no trouble finding it if you cross the pedestrian street of Rua Augusta.
Instead, I recommend admiring the lift from outside and not paying to go up, as you will already have the opportunity to have a good view from other viewpoints. Unless you want to go up to continue your visit to the Chiado district.
The Bairro Alto neighborhood and Cais do Sodre
The São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint
The Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Lisbon, offering a breathtaking panoramic view on Saint George's Castle, the Baixa and the Tagus River.
For those who want to go up to the viewpoint without getting tired, you can take the funicular Gloria - S. Pedro Alcantara, the price is €2.90.
The Time Out Market
The Time Out Market, located in the Cais do Sodré neighborhood right next to the Tagus River. Its friendly and lively atmosphere makes it an ideal place to gather around a refreshing drink, and enjoy the surrounding atmosphere.
It is a nice place to go outside to have a drink and discover a very lively atmosphere.
Apart from that, there is not much to visit, except The small Dom Luis garden located just next door to take some nice photos.
The neighborhood of Belém
The Jeronimos Monastery
The Jeronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jeronimos) is certainly one of the architectural jewels of Lisbon, classified in the UNESCO world heritage.
Located in the neighborhood of Belém, this 16th century monastery was built to celebrate Portuguese maritime discoveries, housing in particular the tomb of the famous Vasco da Gama, a famous Portuguese navigator.
My advice : For my part, I did not visit the interior of the monastery, but considering its size and the long queue when I passed by, I think it was definitely worth visiting. To avoid queuing up, you can book in advance on the Get Your Guide website here for 18€ !
Eat the famous Pastéis de Belém
Les Pasteis de Belém are the most famous pastries in Lisbon, renowned for their secret recipe transmitted since 1837. You will find these famous pasteis at Pasteis de Belém, located right next to the Jeronimos Monastery.
Pastéis de Belém are very good compared to other pastéis de nata that I have tasted in Lisbon. So for me it is a recommendation without hesitation!
Sales price :
- €1.50 per unit
- 9€ per box of 6
Where to eat in Lisbon?
Eating in the Alfama neighborhood
There are three restaurants where I had the opportunity to eat traditional dishes from Portugal and that I really recommend for their local side:
- Tabernita : it is a restaurant run by locals who speak very little English. The menu only fits on one page, but offers typical dishes of Portuguese gastronomy.
- A Flor da Praça : Located a few meters from Lisbon Cathedral, it is surely one of my favorite places to eat grilled sardines. The prices are very affordable considering its location.
- Morgadinha de Alfama : This restaurant is located in a small alley that is quite hidden from tourists, and offers a dish similar to bouillabaisse, the cataplana, where I had the opportunity to have a snack. Count 40€ for 2 people if you want to try this famous dish
Eating in the Baixa neighborhood
There are a multitude of restaurants in the heart of downtown Lisbon. Some are clearly tourist traps that should be avoided. For me, there is only one that I have tasted and that was recommended to me by the host.
- O Castiço : this restaurant is located in the lively Baixa district, but it has the particularity of being quite hidden from the main streets. For my part, I chose the famous Bacalhau to Brás, a Portuguese version of cod brandade dish that was very good!
- Castro : This is not a restaurant but A Pasteis de Nata workshop. If you only have to try one chain, this is it. Unlike its competitors, the Castro workshop allows you to see the pastry chefs at work making pasteis de nata in front of your eyes. And the latter are incomparably delicious.
What to do after Lisbon?
Cascais: the seaside town a few minutes from Lisbon
A 30-minute train ride from Cais do Sodre station in Lisbon, you can go for a day trip to Cascais, known for its beautiful beaches and its city with very charming historic districts.
Take the time to stroll around the Marechal Carmona Park, drive along the coast to enjoy the wind breezes, then stroll through the small streets of Cascais.
By taking the Bus number 1624, you can admire one of the most magnificent coastlines in the region: Cabo da Roca.
Sintra: discover the famous Pena National Palace
The city of Sintra is mainly known for the Pena National Palace. It is perched on top of a hill where you will have the chance to discover a magnificent monument colored in red and yellow.
Located about 50 minutes from Lisbon by car, you will have no trouble getting there. Get around by Uber. The cost of the trip is around €20 one way. So 40€ the return.
If you are traveling with several people, then in my opinion this is the most profitable way. If not, you can always Opt for the train, but it will take you a total of 1 hour 40 minutes (40 minutes by train, then 50 minutes on foot) to reach the palace.
To find out more, I wrote a Full article on Sintra for a 1 day itinerary onsite
Nazaré: the city with the biggest waves in the world
The city of Nazaré is one of my favorite places for its seaside resort, its small restaurants and street shops, as well as the atmosphere that reigns there.
Located about 1 hour 50 minutes from Lisbon by bus, you will discover a very beautiful beach where you can swim, as well as its famous lighthouse at the end of a cliff to admire the biggest waves in the world.
At the top of the cliff, you can admire a beautiful view of the city of Nazaré, and why not stroll through the small village where there are many local markets with its picturesque streets.
