Lisbon is absolutely one of those cities that simply steals your heart and refuses to give it back. It is incredibly vibrant, full of personality, relaxed at times yet never boring, and simply breathtakingly beautiful. I spent two fantastic days in Lisbon, and I managed to fill them full up without ever once feeling stressed about time at all – a perfect balance of eating, sightseeing, and clubbing until late.
If you don’t have a lot of time in Lisbon, here’s how to get the most out of each minute of your 2 days in the capital.
Traveling to Lisbon
Getting to Lisbon is extremely convenient regardless of where you’re coming from in Europe, even from beyond. The Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is located a mere 4 miles (7 kilometres) from central Lisbon. You can step out and literally get on the Aerobus or metro (Red Line) and be in central Lisbon within a short 25 minutes. I grabbed a quick Uber from outside airport, which cost me less than €15, and got dropped right at my hotel in Baixa.
If you’re arriving by train from elsewhere within Portugal or from Spain, the major stations such as Santa Apolónia and Oriente are easy to access and fairly straightforward to get around.
Day 1: Exploring Lisbon’s historic center
Morning: Alfama – A Blast from the Past
Start your Lisbon experience by visiting Alfama, the old-fashioned core of Lisbon, and truly, it feels like Lisbon’s soul. I had a fantastic time strolling through those turny little roads with all the painted buildings and relaxed atmosphere. Every corner feels so photogenic.
You have to stop by Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) — it’s this stunning Romanesque-Gothic treasure that’s stood for ages. I noticed locals airing out clothes while talking from windows while I was walking up to the castle — it absolutely felt like I was getting a glimpse into Lisbonian daily life.
Midday: São Jorge Castle and City Views
You can’t really claim to have been to Lisbon if you haven’t visited São Jorge Castle. The castle’s awesome with its walls, and I know this might sound a little strange, but peacocks are everywhere, roaming free!
The views out over the terracotta rooftops to the Tagus River are among the best in the city. Bring a bottle of water because there’s a lot to see here and it’s a bit of a walk — it’s pretty steep, but definitely worthwhile.
After you’re done, walk by one of the neighborhood viewpoint spots like Miradouro de Santa Luzia, get a coffee, and enjoy the view.
Lunch at Time Out Market – Foodie Paradise
Hi, I’m sure you’re really hungry by now, so you have to go to Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré. I know, I was a bit skeptical at first, I’ll admit it. A food hall? Can it be that great? But man, it really was! Everything I had was incredible: bacalhau à brás (a cod dish that’s a classic), a salad with octopus, and a cold vinho verde.
It’s such a great way to experience Portuguese food, especially if you’re with friends who want to try a lot of different things.
Afternoon: Baixa e Chiado – Sophisticated Downtown Lisbon
You absolutely have to spend your afternoon strolling through those hip Baixa and Chiado streets. They’re more or less the centre of the city, full of great places like Praça do Comércio and the incredibly famous Rua da Augusta Arch.
I popped by Bertrand Bookshop — it’s literally the oldest bookstore still operating in existence — and simply relaxed a bit with a coffee at Café A Brasileira, people-watching.
Lisbon’s simply perfect for a stroll, and this is certainly where you want to do it!
Evening: Bairro Alto – Lisbon’s Nightlife Hot Spot
Later in the evening, head to Bairro Alto. This area totally transforms at night. It’s relaxed during the day, but at night it’s full of people jumping from bar to bar. I stopped by this little bar to get a glass of ginjinha (that sweet cherry liqueur from Portugal) before meeting up with a few other travelers I’d met to see some live Fado music. The atmosphere was fantastic — like a giant street party!
Day 2: Immersing in Lisbon’s Atmosphere and Cuisine
Morning: Belém – A Taste of Tradition
Start Day 2 by visiting Belém, this totally adorable riverside area. I took tram 15E from downtown and got out near Jerónimos Monastery, this stunning example of Manueline architecture. I visited the monastery and adjacent Belém Tower after stopping by, then continued to Pastéis de Belém.
No kidding, the buzz here is completely real, guys. The flaky pastry, creamy custard tarts were truly the best I’ve ever had. Don’t even consider eating one alone — you’ll regret it!
Midday: LX Factory – Lisbon’s hippest hangout spot
Up next, grab a short ride to LX Factory, this sweet old factory building now transformed into a full-on hipster hotspot. It’s full of weird little shops, art studios, restaurants, and loads of radical murals. I relaxed at bookstore Ler Devagar for a solid hour — it’s gigantic and totally Instagram-worthy, not to mention this flying-bike sculpture everybody adores.
LX Factory’s a welcome change from our previous historical explorations — it definitely showcases Lisbon’s younger, artistic side.
Lunch: Mercado de Campo de Ourique – Chill local vibe
If you’re looking for something slightly more local than Time Out Market, try Mercado de Campo de Ourique. It’s smaller and totally relaxed, and it’s where locals tend to hang out. I had a sardine sandwich grilled to perfection and a pastel de nata that was every bit as good at Belém.
The best part? WAY fewer people, so you can get a table and get your chill on.
Afternoon: Feira da Ladra – Lisbon’s Flea Market
If you’re free on a Tuesday or Saturday, be sure to hit Feira da Ladra (the “Thieves Market”) in Alfama. I scored some great vintage tiles, a vintage 1950s Lisbon postcard, and this neat brass key that I now wear as a pendant necklace. It’s really funky and charming, completely full of character!
Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s well worth walking through just to take in the offbeat atmosphere.
Tonight: Seafood Dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro
I reserved the best for last, dude. Cervejaria Ramiro is completely a legend, and it doesn’t happen by chance. I had a 45-minute wait for a table, but it was well worth it. I made a mess with garlic shrimp, grilled clams, and the most succulent lobster I ever had.
The atmosphere is totally relaxed, but it’s never not full – so arrive ravenous and prepared to get a little dirty. And trust me, don’t skip the added-on prego (garlic steak sandwich) at the finish.
Night: Sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
Finish your day in Lisbon by lounging for a while at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. It’s one of Lisbon’s highest points and much less visited than the rest of the view points. I packed a bottle of wine and just relaxed while the sun went down behind the hills, bathing everything in this great golden glow over the red rooftops and river below.
Honestly, it was complete magic.
6 Must-Haves for Your Lisbon Adventure
1. Buy a Lisboa Card
This nifty card allows unlimited use of public transport while gaining free or discounted admission to a multitude of destinations. It’s a great convenience if you’re going to visit a lot of museums or points of historic interest.
2. Wear comfortable shoes, okay?
Lisbon’s got seven hills, and cobblestone streets are a nuisance. Your feet will thank you if you wear some sneakers or better sandals.
3. Hop aboard Public Transport — and the Trams!
Tram 28, those hip yellow vintage trams in particular, are a totally fun means to explore the city. Just a note, though, they get extremely packed. It’s best to use them early morning or late afternoon.
4. Make Reservations for Popular Restaurants
Places like Cervejaria Ramiro or Taberna da Rua das Flores fill up fast. If you’re short on time, book ahead to avoid waiting.
5. You have to see Fado music!
Wherever you’re in Alfama or Bairro Alto, be sure to get to a live Fado performance. It’s truly fantastic and really gives you a sense of the Portuguese character.
6. Don’t overdo it on the Pastéis de Nata
These tiny tarts are everywhere—and impossible to refuse. Just don’t overindulge on Day 1 or your pants won’t fit anymore on Day 2 (trust me, I know from experience!).
Final Thoughts
Lisbon completely blew my mind, but in a really good way. What a fantastic city—so historic and so vibrant! Within a couple of days, I visited old castles, ate like a king, danced through the streets, and soaked up the view at sunset over the Atlantic.
It’s one of those cities where every moment is amazing, yet you are never in a rush, you know? If you’re a foodie, a history buff, or you love having a great time, Lisbon’s definitely where you need to be, hands down! I’m gonna start making plans for my next visit straight away!
Okay, put on your most comfortable shoes, arrive hungry, and get ready for a fantastic 48 hours full of unforgettable experiences in one of Europe’s hippest cities!