Only have two days to spend in the City of Seven Hills? Check out this post for the ultimate itinerary on how to spend 2 days in Lisbon.
Lisbon is a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with vibrant modern energy. With its colorful tiled facades, iconic yellow trams, breathtaking viewpoints, and mouthwatering pastéis de nata, Portugal’s capital is a dream destination. But what if you only have two days to explore? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
In this post, I’ll take you through a perfectly planned two-day itinerary that ensures you experience the best of Lisbon, from its historic neighborhoods to its buzzing food scene. Whether you’re strolling through Alfama’s winding streets, marveling at the stunning Belém Tower, or catching the sunset from a miradouro with a glass of vinho verde in hand, these 48 hours will leave you enchanted and already planning your return.
Portugal Travel Series
P.S. This is a post in my Portugal Travel series. Here is the complete series:
Lisbon Instagram Spots: The 7 Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon
Lisbon Hidden Gems: 9 Non-Touristy Hidden Gems in Lisbon
Lisbon Must Eats: 10 Amazing Must Eats in Lisbon
2 Days in Lisbon Map
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Day 1 – Pasteis de Nata, Belem Tower and Pink Street (2 days in Lisbon)
Stop 1: Grab a Pasteis de Nata at Manteigaria for breakfast
Grabbing a Pasteis de Nata at Manteigaria for breakfast is the first thing you should do because it’s one of the best spots in Lisbon for this iconic pastry. Baked fresh throughout the day, Manteigaria’s pastéis de nata are always warm, flaky, and filled with rich, velvety custard. The perfect balance of crispy caramelized pastry and smooth sweetness makes every bite irresistible, especially with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar. In fact, you could even pair it with a bica (Portuguese espresso) for a quick, authentic Lisbon breakfast.
Stop 2: Gaze at stunning Manueline architecture at the Jeronimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is another great place to visit due to its stunning Manueline architecture, rich maritime history, and peaceful cloisters. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was built in the 16th century to honor Vasco da Gama’s voyage, and his tomb rests inside. The intricate stone carvings, grand archways, and stained glass windows make it a masterpiece of Portuguese heritage. Located in Belém, it’s also near top attractions like Belém Tower and the famous Pastéis de Belém, making it a must-see for history, architecture, and culture lovers if they just have 2 days in Lisbon.
Stop 3: Visit a UNESCO-listed fortress called the Belem Tower
The Belém Tower is another great place you should visit because it’s one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, offering a blend of history, architecture, and stunning river views. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 16th century, once guarded Lisbon’s harbor and played a crucial role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Its striking Manueline architecture, with intricate stone carvings, watchtowers, and maritime motifs, makes it a masterpiece of Portuguese heritage. Climbing to the top also rewards you with panoramic views of the Tagus River and the city.
Located in the historic Belém district, it’s even near other must-see sites like Jerónimos Monastery and the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, making it an essential stop on any Lisbon itinerary.
Stop 4: Head over to LX Factory for lunch, shopping and street art
The LX Factory is another great place to visit because it’s one of Lisbon’s trendiest and most creative hubs. This former industrial complex has been transformed into a vibrant space filled with hipster cafés, gourmet restaurants, and international street food spots, making it perfect for a delicious and unique lunch. The area is also home to independent boutiques, design stores, and vintage shops, offering everything from fashion to handmade crafts.
Stop 5: Take an instagrammable photo of Pink Street
Pink Street is also another great stop because it’s one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife and entertainment hubs. Once a red-light district, this now-famous pedestrian street is known for its bright pink pavement, lively atmosphere, and trendy bars/clubs. During the day, it’s a great spot for photos, with colorful buildings and artistic installations, while at night, it transforms into a hotspot for cocktails, live music, and dancing. It’s even within walking distance of the Time Out Market and the Tagus River, making it an easy and fun addition to any Lisbon itinerary.
So, whether you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon drink or an exciting night out, Pink Street is the place to be if you have 2 days in Lisbon!
Stop 6: Catch the sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina for a scenic view
Catching the sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina for a scenic view is another great thing you can do in Lisbon because it offers one of the best panoramic vistas of Lisbon’s rooftops, the Tagus River, and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. This charming viewpoint is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, providing a peaceful escape with a relaxed atmosphere. The colors of the sunset transform the sky into a beautiful palette, making it a perfect moment for photography or simply enjoying the serene surroundings.
Located in the Bairro Alto district, it’s also close to lively cafés and bars, so you can grab a drink and unwind as the city transforms into a glowing, golden landscape at dusk.
Stop 7: Get dinner at Time Out Market Lisbon for some wonderful Portuguese cuisine
Last but not least, be sure to end your day with dinner at Time Out Market Lisbon because it’s a food lover’s paradise offering a wide variety of wonderful Portuguese cuisine in one vibrant space. This bustling market features some of Lisbon’s best chefs and local eateries, serving up traditional dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), pastéis de nata, and grilled sardines alongside modern twists on classic flavors. With a lively atmosphere and a range of options, it’s the perfect place to explore authentic Portuguese tastes and discover something new.
So, whether you’re in the mood for seafood, cured meats, or artisan desserts, Time Out Market offers something for every palate, making it a must-visit for a memorable dining experience for 2 days in Lisbon.
Day 2 – Tram 28, Baixa & Praça do Comércio, and live Fado music (2 days in Lisbon)
Stop 1: Eat breakfast at another Manteigaria location
Eating at Manteigaria a second time in a row for breakfast is absolutely worth it because one Pasteis de Nata is never enough! Their legendary custard tarts are baked fresh throughout the day, meaning you’ll always get a warm, flaky, and perfectly caramelized treat. The balance of crisp, buttery pastry and rich, velvety custard is so addictive that many visitors find themselves coming back for more. So, whether you’re indulging in a sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a late-night treat, Manteigaria’s pastéis de natas are simply too good to enjoy just once if you have 2 days in Lisbon!
Stop 2: Ride Tram 28 to see Lisbon’s hills and historic streets
Tram 28 is another great stop you can’t miss! You should visit it because it’s the most iconic tram in Lisbon, offering a scenic and historic ride through the city’s most charming neighborhoods. The classic yellow tram even winds through Alfama, Baixa, Graça, and Estrela, giving you a front-row seat to Lisbon’s beautiful tiled buildings, steep hills, and narrow streets—all without having to climb them yourself! It’s also a fun and affordable way to explore the city while experiencing a piece of Lisbon’s history, as these vintage trams have been running since the 1930s.
So, whether you’re using it for sightseeing or simply enjoying the ride, Tram 28 is definitely a must if you only have 2 days in Lisbon.
Stop 3: Wander through the Alfama District, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood
Wandering through the Alfama District should definitely be a must in your itinerary since it’s Lisbon’s most historic and charming neighborhood, filled with narrow, winding streets, colorful tiled buildings, and breathtaking viewpoints. As the oldest part of the city, Alfama has a rich Moorish influence and a uniquely authentic atmosphere, where locals chat from their windows and the scent of grilled sardines fills the air. It’s also home to Lisbon’s famous Fado music, with cozy taverns offering soulful live performances. In fact, as you explore, you’ll also stumble upon hidden courtyards, stunning street art, and landmarks like the Sé Cathedral and São Jorge Castle, all while soaking in spectacular views of the Tagus River.
So, whether you’re into Fado music or just the charming atmosphere of the neighborhood, the Alfama District is definitely a must-visit if you just have 2 days in Lisbon.
Stop 4: Head to São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city
Heading to São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of Lisbon is a must if you’re in the city since it offers one of the most breathtaking vantage points around. Perched atop Alfama’s highest hill, this historic Moorish castle provides sweeping vistas of Lisbon’s red rooftops, the Tagus River, and iconic landmarks like the 25 de Abril Bridge. Beyond the views, the castle itself is a fascinating site to explore, with ancient stone walls, medieval towers, and hidden pathways that transport you back in time.
You can also stroll through its peaceful courtyards, visit the small museum, and even spot peacocks roaming the grounds. So, whether you’re a history lover or just looking for the perfect photo spot, São Jorge Castle is a must-visit for an unforgettable experience if you just have 2 days in Lisbon.
Stop 5: Have lunch near Baixa & Praça do Comércio, the grand riverside square
Having lunch near Baixa & Praça do Comércio is also something you can’t miss since it’s the heart of Lisbon, offering a mix of historic charm, stunning river views, and fantastic dining options. As one of the city’s most iconic squares, Praça do Comércio sits right along the Tagus River, providing a picturesque setting for a relaxed meal. The surrounding Baixa district is also home to elegant cafés and traditional Portuguese restaurants where you can enjoy classics like bacalhau à brás, grilled sardines, or seafood rice while soaking in the grand architecture and lively atmosphere.
With street performers, historic arcades, and easy access to other attractions like the Rua Augusta Arch, it’s the perfect place to take a break, enjoy delicious food, and experience Lisbon’s vibrant city life.
Stop 6: Ascend with Elevador de Santa Justa, a beautiful iron lift
Riding the Elevador de Santa Justa is also a must since it’s one of Lisbon’s most unique and historic experiences, offering a scenic and effortless way to reach higher parts of the city. This elegant, neo-Gothic elevator, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, has been transporting visitors between Baixa and Largo do Carmo since 1902. The real highlight is the panoramic terrace at the top, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Lisbon’s rooftops, the Tagus River, and landmarks like São Jorge Castle.
The Elevador de Santa Justa is also not just a mode of transport—it’s a piece of Lisbon’s history and a fantastic photo spot. So, whether you’re saving your legs from steep hills or looking for a breathtaking view, the Santa Justa Lift is definitely a must-do if you just have 2 days in Lisbon.
Stop 7: Sit down for dinner at Park Rooftop for some preserved seafood
Sitting down for dinner at Park Rooftop in Lisbon for preserved seafood is another great stop because it offers a unique dining experience with stunning panoramic views. Perched atop a hidden parking garage in Bairro Alto, this trendy rooftop bar and restaurant serves high-quality Portuguese conservas—delicious preserved seafood like sardines, mackerel, and octopus—paired with fresh bread, local cheeses, and wines. As you dine, you’ll enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, all in a laid-back, stylish atmosphere with great music.
So, whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for an unforgettable evening spot, Park Rooftop is a must-visit for its mix of flavors, vibes, and views if you just have 2 days in Lisbon.
Stop 8: End the trip at a live Fado music bar in Bairro Alto
Finally, to end your last day in Lisbon, stop by Bairro Alto to visit a live Fado music bar. As night falls, the neighborhood’s narrow streets come alive with the soulful melodies of Fado, where talented singers, accompanied by Portuguese guitar, tell heartfelt stories of love, longing, and nostalgia. Intimate bars and cozy taverns provide the perfect setting to immerse yourself in this deeply emotional and traditional Portuguese music, often paired with a glass of local wine or petiscos (small bites).
So, whether you’re a music lover or simply looking to connect with Lisbon’s rich heritage, a night of Fado in Bairro Alto is an unforgettable and authentic way to end your trip if you just have 2 days in Lisbon.
2 Days in Lisbon Frequently Asked Questions
To end this ultimate 2-day itinerary for Lisbon, I thought I would finish it off with a beautiful GIF and some frequently asked questions about 2 days in Lisbon, Portugal! 🙂
– What’s the best way to get around Lisbon in two days?
- Lisbon is a hilly city, so walking can be challenging in some areas.
- The Tram 28 is a classic way to see historic neighborhoods.
- Metro, buses, and trams are efficient and inexpensive.
- Taxis and Ubers are affordable for longer distances.
- Consider a Lisboa Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.
– What’s the best area to stay in for a short trip?
Príncipe Real – Trendy and quieter, with stylish restaurants and cafes.
Baixa & Chiado – Central, great for first-time visitors, near shopping and major attractions.
Alfama – Historic and charming, though hilly.
Bairro Alto – Best for nightlife but can be noisy.
– Is Lisbon expensive?
Expect to pay €10-€15 for a meal, €1.50 for a coffee, and €3 for a tram ticket.
Compared to other European capitals, Lisbon is relatively affordable.
– What local food should I try?
Sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines, especially in summer).
Pastéis de nata (custard tarts) – Try them at Manteigaria or Pastéis de Belém.
Bacalhau à Brás (salted cod with eggs and potatoes).
Bifana (pork sandwich).
– Is English widely spoken?
Yes! Many people, especially in tourist areas, speak English well.
– What’s the best way to experience Fado music?
Go to a Fado house in Alfama or Bairro Alto. Popular spots include Clube de Fado and Tasca do Chico.
– What are the best viewpoints in Lisbon?
Castelo de São Jorge – A scenic fortress view.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – The best panoramic view.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina – Great at sunset.
– Is Lisbon safe for tourists?
Yes, Lisbon is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets on trams and in crowded areas.
Overall, I hope you enjoyed this post on how to spend 2 days in Lisbon! Please let me know in the comments below which stop you’re looking forward to visiting. I would love to hear from you! 🙂
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