Weekend Trips to Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is Europe's sunniest capital, a city of seven hills where pastel-coloured buildings tumble down to the Tagus river. Expect fado music, custard tarts, street art, and some of the best-value food in Western Europe.
- Colourful Alfama district with narrow lanes and fado houses
- Historic tram 28 winding through the old town
- Pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at Pastéis de Belém
- Vibrant nightlife in Bairro Alto and LX Factory creativity
Weekend Itinerary for Lisbon
A suggested 2-3 day itinerary to make the most of your weekend in Lisbon.
Day 1: Arrival & City Center
Explore Alfama in the morning – Lisbon Cathedral, Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Lunch at a tasca. Afternoon in Baixa and the Santa Justa elevator. Evening fado in Alfama.
Day 2: Explore & Experience
Tram or Uber to Belém. Tour Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Mandatory custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém. Afternoon at LX Factory. Evening in Bairro Alto.
Day 3: Beyond the City
Day trip to Sintra (40 min by train) to see the colourful Pena Palace. Or explore Cascais beach town. Return for sunset drinks at a rooftop bar.
Top Attractions in Lisbon
Must-see places to visit during your weekend in Lisbon.
Alfama
Lisbon's oldest district survived the 1755 earthquake. Wander the narrow lanes, discover viewpoints (miradouros), and hear fado at night.
Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery
Manueline masterpieces in the Belém district. Don't miss the custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém nearby.
Tram 28
The iconic yellow tram winds through the historic neighbourhoods. Go early to avoid crowds.
LX Factory
Creative hub in a former industrial complex. Restaurants, shops, and Sunday markets.
Miradouros
Lisbon's viewpoints offer stunning panoramas. Try Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Santa Luzia.
Local Tips for Lisbon
Insider advice to make the most of your weekend.
- 1Wear comfortable shoes – Lisbon is hilly
- 2Pastéis de nata are best warm – Pastéis de Belém is worth the queue
- 3Fado shows in Alfama are more authentic than touristy venues
- 4The 28 tram gets very crowded – go early morning or skip for an Uber
Practical Information
Flight Time
2 hours 40 minutes
Best Time to Visit
March to May or September to October. Summer is hot and busy; spring and autumn are perfect for walking the hills.
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Portuguese
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about visiting Lisbon.