2 Days in Lisbon: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Last updated: 7 December 2020 | Guides, Portugal
Spending 2 days in Lisbon can be quite challenging, especially if you want to see everything. Lisbon is a huge, charismatic and full of vibrancy city that needs lots of attention. I have already set your expectations high, right? That is no surprise since Lisbon is quite fascinating!
The capital of Portugal has a very rich history dating back to the 2nd century BC when it was inhabited by Celtic tribes. Later in time, it witnessed some of the greatest religious wars during the Reconquista. Eventually, it reached its greatest days during the Age of discoveries led by its maritime explorers that brought all the goods back to their motherland.
During the ages, Lisbon has been expanding rapidly and today it is home to more than 2 million people. Honestly, Lisbon is a humongous city, full of historic landmarks from various historic periods spread everywhere. Having this in mind, Lisbon is definitely challenging for exploration and also time-consuming.
Lucky for you I have created this weekend trip, which is split into 2 day trips in Lisbon. It will help you to easily go around the city and its famous landmarks. Along with that, I made sure that you will get the chance to get lost in Alfama, the oldest district and feel its laid-back vibe. Last but not least, you will also get the chance to witness one of the most beautiful city views and completely fall in love with Lisbon. I promise!
To make your trip easier I have structured this itinerary for spending 2 days in Lisbon in the following way:
Itinerary Map - 2 Days in Lisbon
Lisboa Card - Is it worth it?
Is the Lisboa Card worth it? Absolutely!
The Lisboa Card provides you will free travel. This means that you won’t have to figure out how and where to buy tickets for the metro, bus, trams, elevators or funiculars. It also gives you free travel to Sintra and Cascais, which are the most visited cities around Lisbon.
In addition to that, the Lisboa Card gives free access to 26 museums, monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them are the Belem Tower, Jeronimos monastery, the Santa Justa Elevator and the Azulejos Museum (The Tile museum).
The other benefits of getting the Lisboa Card are the free guidebook, which is quite helpful and provides valuable information for the city. The card also gives its holder lots of discounts on various services like the Aerobus airport shuttle or a discount for the Fado museum.
The Lisboa Card is worth every cent! Whether you are staying 2 days or 3 days in Lisbon, it will save you lots of hassles and time. To get your Lisboa Card click here.
Day One - 2 Days in Lisbon
The top things to do in Lisbon in 2 days include getting around the city’s oldest districts and its most prominent historical landmarks. Luckily, this day trip around Lisbon’s old quarter does not require you to use public transportation. Simply put the most comfortable shoes you have and embark on your adventure to a new world!
Comercio Square & Arco da Rua Augusta
If you plan to spend 2 days in Lisbon, you will have to definitely stop by Praça do Comércio exactly on the waterfront of the Tagus river. Praça do Comércio has been the seat of the Portuguese royal family for a long time. However, things changed when a devastating earthquake and later tsunami hit the city and destroyed it. Sadly, the royals had to move to their residence in Belém and help rebuild the city all over.
Nowadays, Praça do Comércio, the sunniest square in Portugal, is the most famous touristic gathering point. This is due to its easy-to-find location and noticeable yellow colour.
Right before entering Praça do Comércio you will encounter the massive Arco da Rua Augusta. Being one of the most beautiful arches in Portugal, it is also a clock tower, which still works. Fascinating, right?
If you want to get a birds-eye view of the Praça do Comércio and the Baixa district you can go up the arch by using its elevator for a small fee. The entrance to the elevator is on the left of the arch just before going to Praça do Comércio.
Arco da Rua Augusta Overview
🎟️ Price: 4 EUR (skip the line ticket)
⌚️ Working Hours:
Every day: 9:00 – 19:00
Carmo Convent in Lisbon
Carmo Convent is probably the only building that was not completely demolished by the Lisbon earthquake in the 18th century. Unfortunately, it was never restored and was left to remind the people of the devastating earthquake.
Nowadays, the only things you will find there are the arches and pillars that suggest what the size of the convent was. Surprisingly enough, there are some statues left inside along with a nice little museum, which shows how important was the Carmo Convent to the citizens.
Honestly, Carmo Convent is one of the most beautiful religious places in Lisbon (even though there is not much left of it)! It will definitely grab your attention with its fine architecture and grandiose size.
Carmo Convent Overview
🎟️ Price: 5 EUR Adult| 4 EUR Students
⌚️ Working Hours:
Monday to Saturday.
October to April: 10:00 – 18:00
May to September: 10:00 – 19:00
Santa Justa Lift
Lisbon is a very steep city and requires lots of climbing. That is why, back in the 19th century the locals decided to build a lift so they can easily move around. This lift is known as the Santa Justa Lift and connects Lisbon’s steepest streets. You will recognize the Santa Justa Lift by its iron Gothic arches with geometric patterns. It is also standing taller than the houses surrounding it, thus if you decide to go up you will get a very nice view of the city.
Santa Justa Lift Overview
🎟️ Price: 5.15 EUR two-way ticket
Viewpoint: 1.50 EUR
⌚️ Working Hours:
May to October: 7:00 – 23:00
November to April 7:00 – 22:00
🧐 Tip: If you want to see one of the best vistas of Lisbon and absolutely free of charge, go to Alfama. There you will be able to truly enjoy the view without having to constantly bump into people.
Rossio Square
Rossio Square might not mean anything to you but it means a lot to the Portuguese people. Back in the days, it was the square of the city and a gathering point for the locals. During the Middle Ages, all of the celebrations, bullfights and even executions were held here.
Unfortunately, when the famous earthquake hit Lisbon in 1755, it destroyed the square. Thus, the square had to be rebuilt. Nowadays, it is one of the most picturesque squares in Portugal. It is easily recognizable, due to its wavy mosaic patterns that are almost hypnotic. Along with that, it has two beautiful bronze fountains on each side and a huge column that is in memory of Pedro the Fourth, King of Portugal and Emperor of Brazil.
Alfama
Alfama is rich in colours and history, and is also the most laid-back part of the city. From the small shops set on the steep narrow streets of the city, to the tiny cafes and restaurants with hidden tunnels, Alfama is like a little Narnia in Lisbon.
Whether you will be spending 2 days in Lisbon or more, a stop in Alfama is a must-do. Known for being the oldest district of Lisbon, it is also the best place to get closer to the Portuguese culture and customs. If I have to completely honest, Alfama made me fall in love with Lisbon. I know I set your expectations high for the oldest district of Lisbon, but you will agree with me, once you visit it. I can guarantee you that!
See Also: 3 Days in Porto
Sé Catedral de Lisboa
Alfama is home to one of the most important religious buildings in Lisbon. One of them is the notorious cathedral of Lisbon, which is dating back to 2,000 years when the first religious building was built in this place.
However, due to the numerous earthquakes that hit the city over the ages, the cathedral had to be rebuilt a couple of times. So, over the ages, it has changed its appearance quite a bit. Nonetheless, the Sé de Lisboa looks quite impressive and will for sure catch your attention.
Make sure to visit it and check out its cloisters where you will learn more about Lisbon’s history. In addition to that, you will get the chance to see one of the most beautiful vistas of Lisbon and the Tagus river, but only if you climb the steep stairs.
Lisbon Cathedral Overview
🎟️ Price: 4 EUR Adult| 2 EUR Students (for the Cloister and Treasury)
⌚️ Working Hours:
Every day: 10:00 – 17:00
Lisbon's Miradouros
In case you become sore by climbing up the steep hills, which for sure will be the case, don’t hesitate to stop by the miradouros. They are an among the best things to see in Lisbon in 2 days. You will recognize the miradouros (viewpoints) easily by the little terraces with benches located on most of the hills in Lisboa. One of my favorite miradouros is the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, which is set in a churchyard. It offers a panoramic view of Lisbon and is the best place for watching the sunsets in Alfama. A bit down the street is another miradouro I love – the Miradouro da Graça overlooking Alfama and Lisbon. It is very close to one of the most colorful stairways in Lisboa – Caracol da Graça.
Going a bit down the street, you will find the Miradouro Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol (Doors to the Sun). Both of the viewpoints provide mesmerizing vistas over the Tagus river and Alfama. Next to them is a nice bar called Portas do Sol Terrace. There you can enjoy an exceptionally beautiful view over the old city and a pint of nice draft beer.
EarthOSea Travel Tips:
🧐 Tip: Visit the miradouros either early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the harsh sun in Lisbon!
São Jorge Castle
If you are a history lover, you will for sure love the tour inside of the São Jorge Castle. The castle is set on one of the highest hills in the Alfama district and is there since Roman times. The castle stood over time and witnessed various historical ages. It was there when the Romans were ruling over these lands, until the fall of the Roman Empire. Then, the Visigoths came to the lands and asserted control and at some point the Moors took it from them. The Sao Jorge Castle witnessed some of the most important historic events of Portugal in the last 20 centuries. This makes the castle one of the most historically important buildings in Lisbon and Portugal in general.
While inside the castle, you will be able to enjoy a walk on its defensive walls and enjoy some views over Alfama. In addition to that, you will be able to explore its fortifications and its historic museum. There you will have the chance to learn the unfiltered and true Portuguese history.
São Jorge Castle Overview
🎟️ Price: 10 EUR Adult| 5 EUR Students
⌚️ Working Hours:
November to February: 9:00 – 18:00
March to October: 9:00 – 21:00
Day Two - 2 Days in Lisbon
The second day in Lisbon is dedicated to the southwest part of the city – Belém. Belém is considered to be a relatively new part of the city with most of the landmarks built around the 15th century.
The district of Belém is quite far from the city center, but it can be easily reached by train from Cais do Sodré train station (Linha de Cascais). From there it takes around 10-15 minutes to reach Belém.
Jeronimos monastery
Fancy seeing one of the most beautifully decorated and extravagant monastery complexes? Head straight to Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and try to fight the endless queue! Yes, you read that right! The queue for the Jerónimos Monastery is one of the biggest queues you will see anywhere in Portugal.
The Jerónimos Monastery is a Gothic religious complex built in the 1495. It is famous for its beautiful stone carvings and richly decorated arches and pillars. The cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery are one of the most beautiful parts of the complex and an absolute masterpiece. Thus, it is no surprise that it was classified as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983!
Back in the days, Jerónimos Monastery had a significant importance for the embarking sailors. It was the most visited religious building by the explorers and their wives, including Vasco da Gama. As the legend goes, the night before Vasco embarked on his voyage to India, he stayed in Jerónimos Monastery to pray. And the rest is history…
Nowadays, his tomb can be found at the entrance of the Jerónimos Monastery. It serves as a reminder of the brave Portuguese explorers that traveled around the world.
Jeronimos Monastery Overview
🎟️ Price: 10 EUR Adult| 5 EUR Students
⌚️ Working Hours:
Closed every Monday.
October to April: 10:00 – 17:30
May to September: 10:00 – 18:30
See Also: The Perfect Day Trip to Braga
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
The Monument of the Discoveries is another place that calls for your attention.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos was built in the beginning of the 20th century in honour of the great Portuguese explorers. Exactly in front of the monument is a map of the world. It is portraying of all the discoveries along with the year of their discovery. The best way to see the map is to go inside of the monument where you can use the elevator for a fee.
At the top of the monument, 52 meter higher, you will get the most clear view of the world map and the rest of the landmarks in Belem. In front of the monument is the Jerónimos Monastery, on the left the Belém Tower and on its back the 25 de Abril bridge.
The view from above is simply astonishing!
Monument of Discoveries Overview
🎟️ Price: 6 EUR Adult| 3 EUR Students
⌚️ Working Hours:
Closed every Monday.
October to February: 10:00 – 18:00
March to September: 10:00 – 19:00
Belém Tower
Belém Tower is the symbol of Lisbon and is one of the most notable landmarks int he Belém district. You will probably see it on almost any postcard or souvenir around the city.
That is no surprise, as in the past it was a building of great importance for the city. Belém Tower was a defensive tower protecting the city from sea attacks. It was also the place where most of the great explorers embarked on their voyages. The tower of Belém is notable for its beautiful architecture and exterior and just like the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is classified as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nowadays, the Belém Tower doesn’t offer much to see or do once inside. However, from the outside, the fort is quite astonishing. Thus, if you want to save some money for Pastel de Nata, you can take a look at it from afar. Nobody will judge you! 🙂
Belém Tower Overview
🎟️ Price: 6 EUR Adult| 3 EUR Students
⌚️ Working Hours:
Closed every Monday.
October to April: 10:00 – 17:30
May to September: 10:00 – 18:30
Pastéis de Belém Bakery
One of the top attractions in Lisbon is the Pastéis de Belém bakery in the notable Belem district in Lisbon. It is famous for its fine egg tarts that are just melting their crispy crusts in your mouth. I know. Now you want to try them and see what everybody is talking about.
However, the Pastéis de Belém bakery has lots of visitors daily and sometimes it is hard to get inside. That is quite normal, as this is the bakery where the famous pastries originated. However, you can find them pretty much everywhere in Lisbon. Thus, if you can’t get a sniff here you can check out the Manteigaria Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata, which is one of the finest bakeries in Lisbon!
MAAT
Finally, at the end of you 2 days in Lisbon journey, you can stop by the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology. To me it is always a good spot to finish my walk around Lisbon. On top of that, it is a very nice place to take some good shots of the Portuguese Golden Gate (25 de Abril Bridge).
Oh, and you can climb on top of the museum and enjoy the beautiful art installations or the sunset…
Where To Stay in Lisbon?
Recently, Lisbon became a worldwide known destination attracting lots of travelers from all around. This led to an extensive search for accommodation leading to shortage in supply, especially during the summer months.
However, this issue has been fixed quickly as most of the locals, especially in Alfama district, have renovated their old houses to suit the needs of their guests. Having this in mind, you would probably want to stay somewhere in the city center of Lisbon. Luckily, there is enough place for everyone now. Some the best districts to stay in are Alfama, Baixa, Rossio, Bairro Alto and Alcântara.
To make your search for accommodation in Lisbon easier I have prepared a list of the highest rated stays depending on your preferences:
Budget Accommodation
Value for Money Accommodation
Luxury Accommodation
However, if you still wonder where to stay in Lisbon I can recommend you a couple of places:
Chalet D´Ávila Guest House: This stylish budget guest house is everything you could wish for on your trip to Lisbon! Just a couple of steps away from the metro it is like the perfect place to rest after a long day exploring the busty streets of Lisbon.
Rossio Boutique Hotel: Just 20 minutes from Lisbon’s best landmarks, the hotel is rated having the best location in Lisbon! In addition to that, it is entirely renovated and turned into one of the most stylish budget hotels in the city!
Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa: Set exactly in the city center of Lisbon, this place is known for its artsy appearance and incredible views over Lisbon! Along with that, it is close to most of the landmarks of Lisbon, which will save you lots of time commuting and walking around.
Lisbon Experiences
Lisbon’s Oceanarium Guided Tour: Fancy seeing world’s best Oceanarium? Then, check out this 48-hour trip in Lisbon along with a visit to the Oceanarium + skip-the-line ticket! In addition, you will also get a guided tour around Lisbon, free ride and a visit to the museum of Fado!
Live Fado Concert: Going to a Fado show is probably the best thing you can do in Lisbon at night! The Fado music genre was born in Lisbon and is the most emotional music genre you will ever hear. I can guarantee that it will touch you soul and leave a mark there!
Lisbon History Tour: If you want to learn about important areas in Lisbon’s history, then you should definitely try this guided tour! It will bring you back in time riding Lisbon’s tram and going through its oldest districts.
Belem Guided Tour: Explore Lisbon’s most romantic district segwaying around! It might seem scary at first, but after the proper training of professionals, riding a segway will only feel natural!
Lisbon Sailing Tour: Portuguese people have been known for their love of the sea and voyages since the Middle Ages. Nowadays, nothing seems to have changed, as they prefer sailing on a boat rather any other means of transport. If you want to see the starting point of every voyage in the Middle Ages hop on this guided sailing tour!
Day Trips from Lisbon
Sintra & Cascais Day Trip: If you want to live your own fairytale this is the right trip for you! Sintra is the most visited city outside of Lisbon, along with Cascais and the westernmost point Cabo da Roca. It is recommended to do it with a professional guide, so that your experience is unique and safe!
Fátima, Batalha, Nazaré and Óbidos Day Trip: This is probably the best cultural trip you can hop on from Lisbon. It’s going through pilgrims’ sanctuary in Fátima and then to Batalha’s monastery. It passes by Nazaré’s world famous waves and finishes with a walk around Óbidos, known for having the best ginjinha.
Évora Day Tour with Wine Tasting: The city of Évora is prominent for its ancient remains and is listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. While strolling around the village of Évora and Monsaraz you can also try its famous local wine.
Berlenga Island Full Day Tour: Enjoy a trip to this mesmerizing island in the Berlengas Nature Reserve where you will get the chance to snorkel or paddle in a glass-bottom boat!
Sesimbra and Arrábida National Park Tour: If you are a nature lover this trip is definitely for you! It will let you explore the region’s beautiful beaches, tall cliffs, medieval castles and local wineries!
I hope that you have enjoyed these 2 days in Lisbon. Did you visit any of the suggested landmarks?
Which one was your favourite?