Lisbon Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Lisbon

Heading to Portugal and wondering how to spend 3 days in Lisbon? You are in the right place because I have prepared a detailed Lisbon itinerary for three days with useful travel tips.

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and it has a lot to offer to its visitors. But in 3 days you can comfortably visit popular landmarks and even discover some hidden gems. You can easily tick off the best of Lisbon, especially if you have a good itinerary.

I have to warn you that this will be a very packed trip. But I am sure you are not intimidated by that as you want to make the most of your three days in Lisbon. Also, you can easily adjust your itinerary and skip attractions that don’t excite you.

This Lisbon 3-day itinerary includes a detailed plan that covers the best of Lisbon. Under each attraction, you will find a little background of the place, entrance fees, opening times, and everything else that you might need to know.

If you are wondering about the Lisbon card, we will discuss it at the end of the itinerary. I will help you decide if it is a good purchase or not.

Now without further ado, let’s unlock this 3-day Lisbon itinerary!

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Overview of your 3-day Lisbon itinerary 

Day 1 in Lisbon

• Morning: Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta Arch, Se de Lisboa, Miraouro Santa Luzia, and Porta do Sol, Saint George Castle or the rest of Alfama
• Lunch: Floresta das Escadinhas or Organi Chiado
• Afternoon: Rossio, Elevador Santa Justa, Convento do Carmo, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, Elevator Bica, Pink Street

Day 2 in Lisbon

• Morning: Pastéis de Belém, Monastery of Jeronimos, Belem Tower, Monument of the Discoveries, Palácio Nacional da Ajuda or MAAT, and 25th of April Bridge
• Lunch: O Alazão, SUD Lisboa or Mirari
• Afternoon: LX factory, Santo Amaro Chapel, Tram 28
• Dinner: Palacio Chiado

Day 3 in Lisbon

• Morning: Parque Eduardo VII, Av. da Liberdade, Praça dos Restauradores, Casa do Alentejo
• Lunch: Solar dos Presuntos
• Afternoon: Lavra, Jardim do Torel, Calcada de Sant’Ana, Martim Moniz, Mouraria, Largo do Intendente
• Dinner: Cervejaria Ramiro

Lisbon itinerary for 3 days

Praça do Comércio

Start your three days in Lisbon in Praça do Comércio, the biggest square in Portugal, built on the Tagus riverbanks and the beating heart of Lisbon. The square is also known as Terreiro do Paço because there used to be the Royal Palace of Ribeira (Paço da Ribeira).

The earthquake of 1755 devastated the square and much of Lisbon. The famous Marques of Pombal led the rebuilding. After the disaster, the area was reconstructed with some of the world’s first anti-seismic buildings.

Today, the square is one of the liveliest spots in Lisbon. It hosts various events, attracts tourists, and is a popular meeting place for locals. Under the surrounding porticoes, you’ll find vendors, upscale restaurants, and museums.

Rua Augusta Arch

The Arch of Rua Augusta stands prominently in the square, linking it to the Baixa district. It is one of the main attractions in Lisbon and your itinerary wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Arch of Rua Augusta.

Walk from Praça do Comércio under the arch to admire its architecture and decorations. The arch was built to celebrate the city’s reconstruction after the earthquake and was originally planned as a bell tower.

On the square side, you can see statues of Jupiter and notable figures like Vasco da Gama and the Marques of Pombal. On the Rua Augusta side, there’s a clock. From the Rue Augusta side, you can appreciate a clock. 

The top of the arch provides a panoramic view of Lisbon and is open to visitors. The entrance fee is 4.50 euros, and it opens at 10 am. With a Lisbon card, you can access the top for free.

—> Get your Rua Augusta Arch entrance ticket here

Once you step into Rua Augusta through the famous arch, you will find one of the most charming streets in the city and a must-visit in Lisbon. 

If Praça do Comércio is the beating heart of the city, Rua Augusta is the main artery of Lisbon. With its elegant palaces, boutiques, and cafes, Rua Augusta is a place where you could easily spend all day. But since you have only 3 days in Lisbon, you better hurry up!

Se de Lisboa

From Rua Augusta, head to Rua Conceição, where you’ll find the tram tracks, and turn right. Pass by the Church of Saint Mary Magdalene and the Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon to reach the famous Sé, one of Lisbon’s top attractions.

The Sé is Lisbon’s cathedral, built on the ruins of an old mosque from the Moorish period. Construction began in 1148, making it the oldest church in Lisbon. This church is one of the few buildings that survived the 1755 earthquake, though it was remodeled afterward.

The cathedral is a great spot for an iconic Lisbon postcard. With tram tracks in front, you can often see a yellow tram passing by. It’s worth waiting to capture that perfect photo of Lisbon.

⏰ It is open from 10 am to 6 pm. The Cathedral is closed on Sundays.

💶 The entrance fee is 5 euros and you can buy your ticket here. However, this charge was implemented recently and I don’t think it is worth paying. You definitely need to appreciate the Cathedral from the outside, but when it comes to the interior, there are better free alternatives.

Miraouro Santa Luzia and Porta do Sol

Take a short walk from the cathedral to Miradouro Santa Luzia, located next to Porta do Sol.  When you visit Lisbon in 3 days, it’s unthinkable to miss these beautiful viewpoints of the city.

The viewing platforms provide stunning vistas of Alfama and the Tagus River. You’ll also see landmarks such as the Pantheon of Santa Engrácia and the Church of Santo Estêvão, making it feel like a Lisbon postcard brought to life.

These spots are beloved by both tourists and locals. Take a moment to admire the view of Alfama’s rooftops and the shimmering blue waters of the Tagus River.

For a classic Portuguese coffee experience, visit Bar Terraço de Santa Luzia. Here, you can enjoy a “cafesinho” while soaking in the beautiful scenery.

Saint George Castle or the rest of Alfama

São Jorge Castle towers over Alfama and offers a commanding view of the city from its hilltop. This iconic landmark is a must-visit if you have 72 hours in Lisbon.

Originally built as a defensive fortress, the castle has evolved over the years. Today, it is one of Lisbon’s most visited attractions and provides a stunning panoramic view of the city.

I have to warn you that visiting the castle will take at least 2-3 hours. So in case you like to sleep in and don’t want to start your Lisbon itinerary early, I recommend you skip the castle and wander the streets of Alfama instead.

You don’t need a planned itinerary for Alfama, because getting lost is the best way to discover the gems of this Lisbon district. You can simply follow the tram rails for most of it.

Lunch: Floresta das Escadinhas or Organi Chiado

After a morning of exploring, it’s time for a delicious lunch. Central Lisbon has its share of tourist traps, but I know just the right spot for a great Portuguese meal.

Floresta das Escadinhas is a charming local restaurant tucked away in a picturesque staircase alley. Whether you choose a table on the stairs or inside, you’ll love the cozy vibe.

The food here won’t disappoint. The limited menu ensures fresh, local ingredients. In summer, don’t miss their grilled sardines! The octopus is also a highlight.

I’ve visited many restaurants in central Lisbon, and Floresta das Escadinhas consistently exceeds my expectations. The prices are affordable, too!

For vegan options, head to Organi Chiado. It’s one of the top-rated vegan restaurants in Lisbon, with over 2,000 satisfied customers.

Rossio

After a hearty meal, make your way to Rossio, a must-see spot in Lisbon, Portugal. Officially known as King Pedro IV Square, it features a tall statue of King Pedro IV. Beautiful architecture, cafes, restaurants, and shops surround the square.

The most iconic building here is the Rossio Train Station, a famous Portuguese landmark. Its stunning Neo-Manueline façade makes it one of Lisbon’s most beautiful attractions.

Even if you’re not catching a train, Rossio is worth visiting. You can explore the interior without a ticket, making it one of the best free activities in Lisbon.

Elevador Santa Justa

Just a short walk from Rossio, you’ll find the iconic Elevador de Santa Justa. This lift connects you to Largo do Carmo and is a must-visit in any Lisbon itinerary.

The elegant iron structure, built in Neogothic style, is one of the most recognizable buildings in Lisbon and Portugal. The stylish wooden interior makes the ride memorable.

After the ride, you can pay an extra fee to climb a few more stairs for a panoramic view from the top. While you’ll get a stunning view over Rossio Square, Lisbon has better viewpoints, but the choice is yours.

If there’s a long queue, consider taking the stairs. The 30-second ride may not be worth the wait.

Extra tip! Buy your transport ticket at a metro station beforehand. A single or daily ticket will cover your ride. If you buy a ticket at the lift, it costs 5.30 euros and only cash is accepted. With a Lisbon Card, the lift is free.

Convento do Carmo

The Convento do Carmo is a stunning yet often overlooked gem in Lisbon. It’s one of the best examples showcasing the impact of the 1755 earthquake. This disaster struck on November 1st, All Saints’ Day when the convent was filled with locals.

Founded in 1389, the convent is built in the Gothic Manueline style, making it one of the rare examples of this architecture in Lisbon. After the earthquake, the convent was left without a roof as a tribute to the victims.

⏰ It is open from 10 am to 6 or 7 pm depending on the season. The convent is closed on Sundays.

💶 The adult entrance fee is 7 euros, but reduced fares are available. If you have a Lisbon card, it will cost you 5 euros instead.

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Just a few steps from the convent, you’ll find Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon. The stunning views will give you a new appreciation for the Portuguese capital.

This viewpoint has a lively atmosphere with street performers and, in December, hosts charming Christmas markets with festive goodies.

Below the viewing platform, there is a peaceful garden with several benches. It’s one of the most romantic spots in Lisbon, perfect for watching the sunset.

On your way to Miradouro, don’t miss Ascensor da Glória. This iconic and picturesque funicular takes you to the lower part of the city, conveniently leading back to Rossio Square.

Elevador da Bica

3 days in Lisbon wouldn’t be complete without snapping an iconic picture of the Elevador da Bica, as it is another important symbol of the city. It’s one of Lisbon’s most photographed places, and I am sure you don’t want to miss it. 

The street, R. da Bica de Duarte Belo, is one of the liveliest areas in the Portuguese capital, filled with bars and restaurants. You can explore the neighborhood as you head to your next destination or take a ride on the Elevador da Bica.

The Elevador da Bica operates until 10 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ride. Like the Santa Justa Lift, purchasing your ticket beforehand is best. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay 3.80 euros for a return ticket in cash, and you might not use it for the return trip.

It is free if you have a daily ticket for public transport or a Lisbon Card.

Pink Street 

If you don’t enjoy nightlife and feel tired after such a busy itinerary, it is time to head back to your hotel. If you still have some energy and want to enjoy the nightlife of Lisbon, head to Pink Street.

Pink Street is the unofficial name of Rua Nova Do Carvalho a little street near the Cais Do Sodre Station. Hitting Pink Street is one of the best things to do in Lisbon at night, as the street and surrounding areas are packed with restaurants, bars, gelaterias, and kiosks.

Pensão Amor is one of my favorite nightclubs. The Couch Sports Bar is the perfect place to watch sports events. While Peixola is another restaurant that you should try if you are around. The area has something for everyone!

Your itinerary for day 2 in Lisbon

Pastéis de Belém

Wondering what are the top things to do in Lisbon? Trying the authentic pastel de nata should be on top of your list. And starting your day at the Pastéis de Belém is the best choice for your second day in Lisbon.

The origins of Pastéis de Belém date back to the early 19th century. According to legend, the monks of the monastery, facing financial difficulties, began making and selling these pastries to support themselves.

The first recorded sale of these tarts was in 1830, and their popularity quickly spread beyond the monastery walls. While many bakeries across Portugal produce Pastéis de Nata, the original recipe of Pastéis de Belém remains exclusive to the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém.

Visiting the cafe not only lets you taste these wonderful pastries but also gives you a chance to see how they are made. You can watch the bakers at work and appreciate the skill involved in crafting each tart.

Want to avoid long waiting times? Come at 8 am when the cafe is about to open. It has 250 tables, so it takes some time to fill up. The takeaway queue usually is shorter, but I wouldn’t want you to miss the cafe itself.

A single pastel costs 1.40 euros and coffee prices vary from 1-3 euros. As mentioned above, the recipe dates back to the 19th century, so there are no vegan or gluten-free pasteis. If you are a vegetarian, you will find other pastries and snacks instead.

Some people might argue that is cafe is expensive or overrated, but I truly believe it is a must for first-time visitors. If you are a local, you wouldn’t make a line for a pastel and you certainly know cheaper alternatives, but this cafe combines history, culture, and cuisine in a truly unique way.

Monastery of Jeronimos

After getting some carbs and sugar, head to the famous Jerónimos Monastery, which is an absolute must for your 3 days in Lisbon itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most visited and celebrated landmarks in Portugal.

The story of Jerónimos Monastery begins in the early 16th century. King Manuel I commissioned its construction in 1501 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India in 1498. This is another sight in Lisbon that resisted the earthquake of 1755.

The cloister is undoubtedly the most interesting part of the monastery. The monastery also hosts the Museum of Archeology which is now closed for renovation and plans to reopen in 2026.

Attached to the monastery find the Church of Santa Maria de Belém. It’s free to visit and it is an architectural gem you don’t want to miss. Without the Museum of Archeology, it will take you at least one hour to visit the Monastery and the church.

⏰ The monastery opens at 9.30 am, so I recommend you to be there a bit before opening time to enjoy the place without big crowds. However, you will still meet a queue during peak season. Please note that the monastery is closed on Mondays.

💶 The entrance ticket costs 12 euros and you can buy it here. If you have a Lisbon card, you can access Jerónimos Monastery for free.

Belem Tower

After visiting the famous Monastery of Jeronimos, head to Belem Tower. It is located a short walk away and it is another symbol of Lisbon you can’t miss.

Constructed as a fortress to defend the entrance to the harbor and as a ceremonial gateway to the city, Belém Tower played a crucial role in safeguarding Lisbon’s maritime interests and asserting Portugal’s dominance in global trade routes.

Belém Tower witnessed the departure of numerous expeditions that set sail from Lisbon’s shores, including Vasco da Gama’s historic voyage to India in 1498. As such, it became a symbol of Portugal’s Golden Age.

Just like other Lisbon attractions, Belem Tower awaits you with a huge queue at the entrance. Is it worth the wait? It is up to you to decide, but I have to say that there is not much to see inside and your visit will be over in 30 minutes. Views from the top of the tower are nice though.

💶 If you decide to visit the inside, the entrance fee is 10 euros and you need to buy it here. With a Lisbon card, you can visit Belem Tower for free, but it does not give you a skip-the-line option.

⏰ The tower is open from 10 am to 6 pm with the last admission at 5.30 pm. Keep in mind that it is closed on Mondays.

Monument of the Discoveries

Just a few steps away from the Belem Tower find the iconic Monument of the Discoveries. Standing majestically on the northern bank of the Tagus River in Lisbon, it is a symbol of Lisbon and Portugal’s golden Age of Exploration. 

The monument is pretty recent as it was erected in 1939 and inaugurated on 9 August 1960. It represents some of the most important figures of Portuguese history, these are a few examples: Henry The Navigator, Vasco da Gama, and Afonso V.

Not many people know this, but you can go to the top of the Monument of the Discoveries. After a short elevator ride, you will be able to enjoy a fantastic view of the Monastery, the Belem Hills, and the iconic mappa mundi next to the monument.

💶 You don’t need to pay to see the exterior of the monument, but the elevator to the top will cost you 10 euros. If you have a Lisbon Card, you have free access to Monument of the Discoveries.

⏰ You can see the monument any time of the time, but the upper part is open from 10 am to 7 pm.

Palácio Nacional da Ajuda or MAAT and 25th of April Bridge

Depending on your interests, I will offer you 2 different alternatives. Do you like history and old palaces? Or do you prefer modern art and new architecture?

If your element is history and traditional architecture, you don’t want to miss the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda. This stunning palace stands on the Belem Hills and boasts some lavish original interiors. It is one of the most beautiful palaces in Lisbon and all of Portugal.

The palace was built to replace the royal palace that was destroyed after the earthquake of 1755. It was a provisory project but eventually became permanent after several projects and modifications.

Keep in mind that the palace is closed on Wednesdays.

💶 If you have a Lisbon Card, you can access the palace for free. If not, the entrance fee is 8 euros and you can buy your ticket here.

Prefer modern art? Head to MAAT the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology. The museum hosts the most impressive collection of contemporary Portuguese art and some additional permanent and temporary exhibitions. 

💶 Ticket to visit MAAT Gallery and MAAT Central costs 11 euros and you can buy your ticket here. It is not included in the Lisbon Card.

⏰ MAAT is open from Wednesday to Monday from 10 am to 7 pm. It is closed on Tuesdays.

In case you don’t want to visit any of these museums, take a walk from Monument of the Discoveries to MAAT and enjoy spectacular views of the 25th of April Bridge and the Cristo Rei. Just seeing the facade of MAAT is a great experience.

Lunch: O Alazão, SUD Lisboa or Mirari

After a morning packed with exploration, it’s time to have an unforgettable lunch. Once again, I have prepared 2 delicious alternatives for you so you can choose the most suitable option.

For Portuguese cuisine, head to O Alazão. It is a small family-owned restaurant with very affordable prices. On the menu, you will find delicious cheese options, cold cuts, fresh grilled fish, seafood, and a lot of wine. That is the true essence of Portugal.

Are you looking for a fancy lunch with a view? SUD Lisboa is your next destination. However, I recommend giving up Ajuda Palace and simply walking from Belem to the restaurant.

If you are visiting Belem on a Thursday or Saturday, head to the newest food court in Lisbon: Mirari. This place is gaining a lot of popularity thanks to their exceptional burgers at Stack Burger, but you will find other delicious lunch options as well.

LX Factory

Nearby Belem is LX Factory, one of the most popular places to visit in Lisbon in 3 days. It is an old factory reconverted in a leisure area in the Alcantara neighborhood. The space has many bars, art galleries, boutiques, and more.

One of the highlights of the LX Factory is the bookstore Ler Devagar. This is one of the most famous bookstores in all of Portugal and a popular spot to take photos in Lisbon. 

Every Sunday you can find a flea market with vintage clothing and art, but during the rest of the week, you can shop in one of the many local boutiques. It also features a lot of street art, perfect for photo lovers.

When it comes to the food scene, this might not be your first choice though. You will find some upscale fine-dining restaurants and some not-so-well-rated eateries. If you want to take a break during your visit, Landeau Chocolate is your best bet.

⏰ It is open from 10.30 am to 10.30 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 10.30 pm on weekends. Despite the opening times, there is no entrance fee which makes it one of the best free places to visit in Lisbon.

Santo Amaro Chapel

After a visit to the LX Factory, I want you to visit Santo Amaro Chapel, which is one of the best hidden gems in Lisbon. While the chapel is not an impressive place, it offers a fantastic and unique view of the 25 April Bridge.

We used to offer a photoshoot that covers popular spots in Belem and ends with the LX factory & this viewpoint. Let me tell you that most customers loved this location the most, so you simply cannot skip it.

You will see a lot of locals and kids playing around, but this is not a popular tourist attraction, so it offers a laid-back atmosphere. I am sure your camera will love the views from the top.

Tram 28

Take a taxi to Prazeres Cemetery to try one of the most loved experiences in Lisbon. I am talking about taking a ride on the iconic Tram 28. If you want to skip the line and get a seat on the tram,  Prazeres Cemetery is the place to be.

You know how people say “Life is about the journey, not the destination.”? Well, Tram 28 is a perfect representation of it. If something, I am sure you don’t want this journey to end as you appreciate postcard views out of your window. 

On the ride, you will have the chance to see sights like the Basilica da Estrela and the Cathedral while you climb the narrow streets of Alfama and Mouraria.

My recommendation is to enjoy the ride until the last stop which will be in Martim Moniz. After the ride, it’s time to finish your day with a fantastic dinner. You might want to save these amazing Tram 28 photo spots.

Dinner: Palacio Chiado

I am sure you want to finish your day in Lisbon with an amazing dinner and Palacio Chiado is the place to be.

This beautiful restaurant is housed in a place from the XVIII and has a unique character and personality. Each room looks like a museum, with beautiful paintings, decorations, and stained glasses. 

At Palacio Chiado, you can find different sections with different specialties, from fine dining to traditional food and even snacks. There is also an extravagant cocktail bar if you want to stay after dinner. 

The restaurant has higher prices compared to other places, however, the prices are still very reasonable for the quality. Every season has a different menu, so I recommend you check their page to see what’s on during your visit to Lisbon.

Palacio Chiado serves dinner from 7 pm to midnight. Keep in mind that it is closed on Mondays. 

Your itinerary for day 3 in Lisbon

Parque Eduardo VII

Start the last day of your Lisbon itinerary by visiting one of the most famous parks in the city. The Parque Eduardo VII is a huge green area in central Lisbon previously known as the Park of Liberty. The park is characterized by its bush labyrinth and iconic viewpoint.

One of the highlights is the view of the River Tagus. Just behind the famous viewpoint, you can also find the biggest Portuguese flag in Lisbon, the Monumento ao 25 de Abril, and the garden Amalia Rodrigues.

Inside the park, you can find the picturesque Carlos Lopes Pavillion. The Pavillon was built for the expo of 1922 in Rio de Janeiro and it showcases some beautiful azulejos representing historical battles of the Portuguese history. 

Another iconic landmark you can find in the park is the Estufa Fria. Estufa Fria has a diversity of tropical plants, artificial lakes, and waterfalls.

The park is accessible at any time of the day and there is no entrance fee.

Av. da Liberdade (Cinemateca Portuguesa optional)

Avenida da Liberdade is one of the most elegant and beautiful streets in Lisbon. It connects two of the busiest squares in Lisbon, the Marques De Pombal Square to Praça dos Restauradores.

With its beautiful architecture and gardens, it is an ideal place to appreciate some of the finest palaces in the city and some examples of Calcada Portuguesa (the typical Portuguese mosaic pavement).

Avenida da Liberdade is also home to some of the most exclusive hotels and boutiques in Lisbon, making it an ideal location to shop for some high-luxury brands.

One of the points of interest in the Avenida da Liberdade is the Cinemateca Portuguesa – the Cinema Museum. A visit to this hidden gem in Lisbon is optional depending on your interest, however, the beautiful interiors make it an interesting destination to discover.

Praça dos Restauradores

At the end of your walk through the Avenida da Liberdade find the famous Praça dos Restauradores. The square is one of the busiest and most beautiful squares of the Baixa in Lisbon. 

It is famous for its 30-meter-tall obelisk that symbolizes the restoration of the Portuguese independence after the short Spanish domination. The pavement around the obelisk is another fine example of the typical mosaic pavement.

The rectangular square is surrounded by beautiful buildings of the 19th and 20th centuries with the Palácio Foz stealing the scene as the most beautiful building. The Cine-Teatro Eden is another remarkable building in the square built in Art-Deco style. 

If you are getting hungry, stop by Fabrica da Nata. I am sure you will appreciate their delicious pasteis de nata or other Portuguese pastries.

In the square, you can also find the stop of the infamous Glória Funicular that connects the Baixa with the Principe Real area.

Casa do Alentejo

The Casa do Alentejo is a hidden gem in Lisbon, especially for those exploring the city for the first time. Its entrance can be easily overlooked if you’re not familiar with its location, and at first glance, the palace may seem unassuming and easy to dismiss.

Originally built in the late 19th century as a palace for the Counts of Valenças, the Casa do Alentejo is a stunning example of Neo-Moorish architecture, featuring intricate tilework, ornate stucco decorations, and elegant Moorish arches. 

It was constructed as a private residence, but the building underwent a series of transformations after the family abandoned it. It served first as a casino, then as a social club, and even functioned as a school for a while.

The first floor houses a modest tavern and a few local boutiques, while the second floor boasts a beautifully adorned restaurant. However, while visually appealing, the dining experience may not live up to expectations.

Casa do Alentejo is open every day and there is no entrance fee which makes it one of the best free things to do in Lisbon.

Lunch: Solar dos Presuntos

Solar dos Presuntos is a fantastic restaurant in Lisbon where you can enjoy high-end Portuguese cuisine. The menu features a rich selection of fish and seafood, as well as meat dishes.

Since 1974, the restaurant has been welcoming both locals and tourists, preserving the traditions of the Minho region. It’s the perfect place to try local seafood risotto and the freshest marisco. 

Popular fish dishes include codfish and octopus, while meat lovers will enjoy the local black pig. Vegetarians and vegans will also find options to suit their tastes.

The ambiance is elegant and refined, complemented by warm and attentive hospitality.

Lavra

It is not only the oldest funicular in Lisbon but also the oldest in the world that is still in operation using its original water-powered system. This charming funicular has been an integral part of Lisbon’s public transportation network since it was inaugurated in 1884.

Yet, most tourists miss out on Elevador do Lavra. And do you know what is the best part? It brings you to the Pena area of Lisbon which holds many more hidden gems of Lisbon.

On top of that, this is your chance to get some amazing photos with the iconic yellow elevator any time of the day without fighting for a spot with other tourists and selfie sticks.

The lower stop is marked as Lavra – Lg. Anunciada on Google Maps and the upper stop is Lavra – R. Câmara Pestana. It is a short 5-minute ride but trying Elevador in Lisbon is a must and Elevador do Lavra offers a much more relaxing experience than other places.

⏰ From Monday to Friday, it operates from 7.50 am to 7.55 pm. On the weekends and public holidays, it works from 9 am to 7.55 pm. It departs every 10-15 minutes.

💶 If you have the Lisbon Card or daily ticket, you can use any of the Elevadors for free. Other than that, a return ticket from the driver costs 3.80 euros and can be paid in cash only.

Jardim do Torel and Calçada de Sant’Ana

Once you reach the top of the Elevador do Lavra, head directly to Jardim do Torel. This park is one of the most relaxing places in Lisbon and the view of the city is just a cherry on the cake. This park is loved by locals but is a complete gem among tourists.

Later on, make sure you head to Calçada de Sant’Ana and walk all the way down until you reach Martim Moniz Square next.

If you ask me, this is one of the prettiest streets in Lisbon. You can enjoy the walk between typical Portuguese houses, see Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Pena, and don’t miss the residence of the famous Portuguese singer Amália Rodrigues.

At the top of Calçada de Sant’Ana, you will find Torel Palace Lisbon, which is one of the best hotels in Lisbon with a view. If you are not a guest, you can still visit Black Pavilion Restaurant which offers one of the best views of Lisbon.

Martim Moniz

Once you are back in the lower part of the city, head to the Martim Moniz Square. The square is dedicated to the legendary warrior Martim Moniz who sacrificed himself to protect Lisbon during the invasion of the Moors in 1147.

Nowadays the square is a lively place where cultures from all over the world meet. In this square, you can find hundreds of Asian boutiques. The Mercado Oriental Martim Moniz also counts several food stalls where you can Asian specialties.

If you are ready for a break, head to Hotel Mundial’s rooftop bar. From the terrace, you will be able to see panoramic views of Martim Moniz Square, the castle, Figueira Square, and even the Tagus River.

Mouraria

Mouraria is one of Lisbon’s most historic and multicultural neighborhoods, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and narrow winding streets. Located just east of the city center, Mouraria is steeped in history and has long been associated with Lisbon’s Moorish past.

Today, Mouraria retains much of its traditional charm, with its labyrinthine streets, historic buildings, and lively squares. You can wander through its narrow alleys, admiring the colorful facades, ornate tiles, and hidden courtyards that dot the neighborhood. 

I would say that Mouraria is a less popular cousin of Alfama which means that you can enjoy historical Lisbon without big crowds and busy streets. Start with Rua João do Outeiro and head to your next stop.

This street is one of the secret spots that you won’t find in other Lisbon guides, so don’t miss out. Once you reach Jasmim da Mouraria, make sure you stop by the cute square.

Largo do Intendente

Largo do Intendente is a charming square known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and cultural diversity. Situated in the Intendente neighborhood, this square has undergone significant revitalization, but I still consider it Lisbon’s hidden gem.

The square is surrounded by colorful buildings, many of which have been renovated and repurposed into trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops. The architecture of the square reflects Lisbon’s rich heritage, with a mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles.

The highlight of the square is the building covered with azulejos that you will find right next to the A Vida Portuguesa, which is a must-visit shop in Lisbon. And if you want to enjoy local nightlife, Casa Independente is one of the best places in Lisbon.

Also, a lot of tourists don’t know that this used to be the most dangerous area of Lisbon, however, it changed after they opened a police station in the Largo do Intendente. It attracted new bars, restaurants, and eventually even tourists completely changing the district.

Dinner: Cervejaria Ramiro

Cervejaria Ramiro is one of the most iconic restaurants in Lisbon. Almost every local you meet will recommend it to you. The restaurant has a simple, unpretentious style with a pleasant ambiance. 

The focus is all on the food, especially the seafood. Their crab, tiger prawns, and clams are exceptional. For something special, try the lobster. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the barnacles and pair them with a good glass of green wine.

Don’t visit Ramiro without a reservation. You could end up waiting for hours, especially on weekends. It’s best to book a table on their website or through TheFork.

Is Lisbon Card worth it for this three-day Lisbon itinerary?

Lisbon Card is a popular topic that comes up when planning your trip. To help you make that decision, I will share a simple price breakdown for this 3-day Lisbon itinerary. 

You already know that this itinerary is customizable, so you can remove the cost of things that you don’t want to do and make your calculations.

Here is the price breakdown for the Lisbon Card:

• 24 hours – 27 euros
• 48 hours – 44 euros
• 72 hours – 54 euros

Lisbon Card offers free access to:

• Rua Augusta Arch (4.50 EUR)
• Saint George Castle (15 EUR + skip the line)
• Monastery of Jeronimos (15 EUR)
• Belem Tower (10 EUR)
• Monument of the Discoveries (10 EUR)
• Palácio Nacional da Ajuda (8 EUR)

Other bonuses:

• Discount for Carmo Convent (2 EUR)
• Free public transport (6.80 EUR per day or 1.80 EUR per ride)
• Free ride on the Tram 28 (1.80 EUR)
• Free ride on Santa Justa Lift (1.80 EUR)
• Free ride on Bica (1.80 EUR)
• Free ride from the airport (1.80 EUR)

As you can see, you make your money worth by simply visiting 3-4 main attractions, not to mention other benefits. However, I have to say that 3rd day in Lisbon doesn’t include any attractions that require tickets.

So unless you are planning to use a lot of public transport on your last day, I recommend you get a Lisbon Card for 2 days if you decide to follow this 3-day Lisbon itinerary.

Final thoughts…

This is the end of your 3-day Lisbon itinerary and I am sure you have a clear plan on how to spend 72 hours in Lisbon after reading this travel guide.

I would love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a comment below. If you need further help with planning, check out these Lisbon travel tips, hotel recommendations, or food guides.

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