4 Days in Lisbon Complete Itinerary
Four days in Lisbon reveals Portugal's sunny capital at its finest - hilltop neighborhoods, azulejo-covered buildings, historic trams, and pasteis de nata consumed in quantities you'll never admit. Here's how to fall in love with this charming city.
Day 1: Alfama & Waterfront
Morning
Begin in Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. Wander narrow lanes past fado houses and azulejo-clad buildings. Climb to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro da Graca for panoramic views.
Afternoon
Ride the iconic Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods (board at Graca to get a seat). Explore Lisbon Cathedral (Se) and the viewpoint at Santa Luzia. Walk down to the waterfront.
Evening
Time Out Market for dinner - the food hall offers Lisbon's best chefs under one roof. Alternatively, a traditional fado performance in Alfama with dinner and wine.
Day 2: Belem
Morning
Take the tram or Uber to Belem. Start at Pasteis de Belem for the original custard tarts - warm from the oven with cinnamon. Visit the UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery, a Manueline masterpiece.
Afternoon
Belem Tower stands photogenically at the river's edge. Walk the waterfront promenade past the Discovery Monument. MAAT museum offers contemporary art and architecture.
Evening
Return to central Lisbon for drinks in Bairro Alto - the hilltop neighborhood transforms at night with bars spilling onto the streets. Dinner at a traditional tasca (tavern).
Day 3: Sintra Day Trip
Full Day
Train to Sintra (40 minutes) to explore fairy-tale palaces and gardens. Pena Palace's colorful towers crown the hilltop. The National Palace in town center offers beautiful interiors.
If time allows, the romantic ruins of Moorish Castle provide stunning views. Return to Lisbon for seafood dinner in Cais do Sodre.
Day 4: Neighborhoods & Views
Morning
Baixa's grid streets for shopping and historic cafes. Ride the Santa Justa Elevator for city views. Cross to Chiado for bookshops, theaters, and elegant squares.
Afternoon
Explore the trendy LX Factory - creative hub in a former industrial complex with restaurants, shops, and weekend markets. Or take a boat ride on the Tagus for different perspectives.
Evening
Sunset from Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte. Final dinner in Principe Real's gardens or a rooftop bar overlooking the castle.
Tips
- Lisboa Card offers transport and free museum entry
- Comfortable shoes essential for hilly streets
- Book Sintra tickets online to avoid queues
- Ginjinha (cherry liqueur) shots are a Lisbon tradition
- Many restaurants close Sundays
