How to Spend 2 Days in Lisbon Itinerary
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Lisbon, or Lisboa in Portuguese, is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Portugal's capital city has been home to famous explorers and a starting point for some of the world's greatest voyages. Needless to say, it is a city full of history! Built on hills and surrounded by the ocean, Lisbon is also one of the most picturesque cities in Europe.
Visitors will discover numerous things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, and this 2 days in Lisbon itinerary will cover many of these fun and exciting activities. As you explore, you will get to see spectacular architecture, old neighbourhoods, World Heritage Monuments, and breathtaking museums, among many other attractions.
Conveniently, all of the stops on this Lisbon guide are located near each other, and getting around Lisbon is also relatively easy. If you cannot walk between stops, you can use buses, trams, or the metro.
A good way to save money on transport and attractions in Lisbon is by getting a Lisboa Card. It offers free entry to more than 30 attractions and allows you to travel on public transport free of charge. You can opt for a 48-hour Lisboa Card, with 24-hour and 72-hour cards also available.
Are you planning a getaway to Portugal's capital city? Then keep reading for the perfect 48 hours in Lisbon travel guide!
Heading to Lisbon and planning last-minute?
When visiting Lisbon, book your accommodations and experiences before you go. We've pulled together top suggestions below.
🏨 Top accommodations in Lisbon
- TURIM Saldanha Hotel (under $100 USD a night)
- Residencial Florescente (rated highly)
- Vila Garden Guesthouse
☂️ Top tours and experiences in Lisbon
- Sintra & Cascais Small-Group Day Trip From Lisbon (likely to sell out)
- Jerónimos Monastery Entrance Ticket (likely to sell out)
- Lisbon Card - 24, 48, or 72-Hour Pass (likely to sell out)
- City Walking Tour With Food Tasting & Drinks (rated highly)
- Jewish History in Portugal Guided Walking Tour (rated highly)
Lisbon 2 Day Itinerary
Lisbon 2-Day Itinerary Video
Check out our highlights video of the stops covered in this Lisbon itinerary.
Lisbon 2-Day Itinerary Map
A map of Lisbon. Use the map to explore all the days and stops.
Explore the Picturesque Belém District
The first day of this Lisbon two day itinerary will see you wandering around the Belém district, a charismatic neighbourhood to the west of the city. Your day will begin at the beautiful Jerónimos Monastery, where you can wander around and learn more about this landmark's history.
Next, you will stop at the iconic Pastéis de Belém to get coffee and pastel de nata. You can enjoy your light breakfast at the bakery or take it to Jardim Vasco da Gama to eat surrounded by nature.
After a walk around the park, you will head over to the fascinating Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology before seeing the renowned Padrão dos Descobrimentos. At the monument, you can snap pictures and even go to a museum and viewing platform inside.
Your last attraction of the day is Belém Tower, another famous landmark in the city. You will then go on a luxurious sunset cruise along the Tagus River before ending the evening at one of the city's many bars or restaurants.
To make the most of this day, especially if you only have one day in Lisbon instead of two, start out as early as possible. Take into account that even though you can walk from one attraction to another, you might need to use public transportation to save time. Don't forget to get the Lisboa Card to skip the queues at the front of the ticket booths!
Jerónimos Monastery
Your first stop of the day is Jerónimos Monastery, a grand monastery and resting place of Vasco da Gama. Built during the 16th century to commemorate Vasco da Gama's return from India, Jeronimos Monastery has breathtaking architecture, decorative elements, and impressive stone carvings. It attracts millions of visitors every year.
Inside the church are tombs of famous Portuguese people, including explorer Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões. In 1983, the monastery was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As this is such a popular attraction, purchasing Jerónimos Monastery admission tickets in advance is highly recommended.
🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to the Jerónimos Monastery
- Casinhas da Ajuda nº 27 (good value)
- Belém 147 Apartment (highly acclaimed)
Pastéis de Belém
After the monastery, stopping at a small local bakery for a light breakfast and trying Lisbon's famous custard tart, known as pastel de nata (or pastéis de nata), is a must. Going to Pasteis de Belem is an excellent idea as it sits right next to Jeronimos Monastery.
According to local stories, this bakery was the first to start selling pastel de nata after monks from Jeronimos Monastery sold their recipe for the tart to the bakery owners. Only a handful of people know the secret recipe used to make Pastéis de Belém's custard tarts. This unique recipe makes the pies crispier and more delicious than those sold in different bakeries.
The Manteigaria, aka the Portuguese custard pies factory, also serves up some tasty pastel de nata. So, it's worth considering stopping here for breakfast in Lisbon as well!
Jardim Vasco da Gama
Jardim Vasco da Gama, or Vasco da Gama Garden, is a five hectares garden situated in the centre of the Belem district. The garden was established in the 18th century to celebrate the great discoveries of explorer Vasco da Gama.
Today, it is a vast garden with fancy restaurants, several handicraft shops, fountains, and lots of green space. Strolling around and enjoying the tranquillity of the beautiful gardens is definitely one of the top things to do in Lisbon in 2 days!
To make the walk even more enjoyable and satisfying, take away custard tarts from Pastéis de Belém and eat them alongside a cup of coffee surrounded by nature.
Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, more commonly known as MAAT, faces the Tagus River. The architect Amanda Levete designed the museum's exciting and modern structure, which is a work of art in itself.
Inside the museum, several halls feature international and local exhibits. As many exhibits rotate, you'll see something new every time you visit. There are also debate rooms and convention halls. MAAT is notably one of the most-visited museums in the country, making it a must on every Portugal itinerary!
When you finish exploring the museum, you can grab lunch by the river. You can also find cafes inside the museum. In addition, next to the museum, you will find another of many famous Lisbon attractions, the Tejo Power Station. This building is a symbol of Portuguese industrial design, and walking past and admiring the architecture is highly recommended when in the area.
🏨 Places to stay close to the MAAT
- Casinhas da Ajuda Nº25 (well-rated)
- Hyatt Regency Lisbon (5-star rating)
☂️ Visit the MAAT with an experience
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
After the museum, continue walking along the river. You will eventually come across the famous monument of Padrão dos Descobrimentos or the Monument of the Discoveries in English. This landmark is dedicated to Portuguese explorers from the 15th and 16th centuries.
It was initially built in 1940 from wood and plaster. Almost 20 years later, in 1958, the government rebuilt the structure using limestone, concrete, and steel. The current monument is 52 meters high and has a viewing platform with the most beautiful views of Belem and the Tejo Estuary.
You will also find small exhibit rooms when you go inside Padrão dos Descobrimentos. If you want to visit the viewing platform or museum, note that each has different fees. However, if you have the Lisboa Card, you will receive a 30% discount, and exploring this attraction is a must when in Lisbon for two days, despite the small fee.
🏨 Accommodations nearby the Padrão dos Descobrimentos
- Famous Crows Lisbon Suites (mid-range)
- NAU Palacio do Governador (rated very highly)
☂️ See the Padrão dos Descobrimentos on a tour
Torre de Belém
The Tower of Belem, or Torre de Belém in Portuguese, is another of the must-see landmarks in Lisbon. Construction of the tower began in 1514, and it opened in 1519. It was a part of the Tagus estuary defense system. Later on, it was turned into a lighthouse and customs house. In 1983, Belem Tower was also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors to Belem Tower today enjoy marveling at the unique Manuelino-style architecture. The tower, in total, has five floors, 16 windows with cannons, and numerous pits that were used for prisoners.
Belem Tower can be explored on a guided tour, which includes visiting all the floors. You can enter for free with the Lisboa Card. If you don't have a Lisboa Card, you can purchase a Torre de Belém entry ticket in advance.
🏨 Stay near the Belém Tower
- MS Aparthotel (mid-range)
- Altis Belem Hotel & Spa, a Member of Design Hotels (exceptional rating)
Tagus River Sunset Cruise
If you're wondering what to do in Lisbon for 2 days during the early evening, taking a sunset cruise is an absolute must! During this two-hour excursion, you will sail along Lisbon's historic waterfront, spotting a range of well-known landmarks, including Belém Tower. After taking in the views, you will continue down the river, where you can watch the beautiful sunset.
Guests will also be treated to a drink, with wine, beer, and soft drinks available. In addition, your guide can provide some additional information on all the landmarks you sail past.
Once your journey is complete, you can head back to central Lisbon to enjoy the nightlife by visiting one or more of the numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs. Daytime and later evening cruises are also bookable if that works better with your schedule.
The Historic Central Lisbon
On the second day of Lisbon 2 day itinerary, you will explore central Lisbon and learn more about the city's rich history. The day begins at Castelo de São Jorge, which has a history and art museum and offers stunning views over the city.
You will then head to Praça Dom Pedro IV, or Rossio Square, to admire the buildings around the square and discover some shops and cafes, where you can grab a light breakfast or early lunch. Next, you can ride in the Santa Justa Lift and enjoy more amazing vistas.
Stops in the afternoon include Chiado Square and Lisbon Cathedral. You will then go to Miradouro das Portas do Sol, a fantastic lookout point, to watch the sun go down over the city. For dinner, walk over to Time Out Market, which is home to an array of vendors serving all types of cuisine.
On the way there, you can also stop at Arco da Rua Augusta to take some pictures. Finally, to end your trip to Lisbon, relax at a bar at Time Out Market or return to the bars around Chiado.
Castelo de São Jorge
São Jorge Castle, also known as Castelo de São Jorge or Lisbon Castle, is situated on a hill overlooking the Alfama District. First built by the Romans, the castle underwent a complete restoration in the 1940s, and it is now a popular tourist attraction.
Inside, you will find a museum, paintings, numerous viewing points, and spectacular gardens. Outside the castle, there are several monuments, arches, and beautiful medieval streets.
As it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lisbon, expect long queues at the entrance and ticket booths. To make admission easier, purchase São Jorge Castle guided tour tickets before you arrive. The castle is usually open seven days a week.
🏨 Places to stay close to the Castelo de S Jorge
- Pensao Praca da Figueira (well-priced for the area)
- The Lumiares Hotel & Spa (scored highly by guests)
Praça Dom Pedro IV
Praça Dom Pedro IV, also known as Rossio Square, is the most iconic square in the city, meaning it has to be on your Lisbon for 2 days itinerary! It is located in the Baixa District (Downtown), a short walk from São Jorge Castle.
Locals usually refer to the square as 'the heart of Lisbon' because various European landmarks and traditional restaurants surround it. Within the square, you will find two baroque fountains and a 27-metre-tall monument dedicated to Dom Pedro IV.
This square has a rich history as well. During the Middle Ages, Rossio Square was the main square for revolts, bullfights, executions, and celebrations.
Now, it is an ideal place to relax, grab a coffee, and people-watch. Do keep an eye on your belongings here, as pickpocketers are common and active in this square.
🏨 Nearest accommodations to Rossio Square
- Lisbon Serviced Apartments - Madalena (good value)
- Torel Palace Lisbon (rated 5-stars)
☂️ Explore Rossio Square with a tour
- Lisbon Small-Group Portuguese Food & Wine Tour (often fully booked)
- City Highlights Segway Tour (rated very highly)
Elevador de Santa Justa
Your third stop of the day is the Santa Justa Lift, or Elevador de Santa Justa in Portuguese. The lift opened in 1902 and was initially named the Elevador do Carmo (Carmo Lift).
Until 1907, the lift was powered by steam. It was built to ease access between the Baixa and Bairro Alto Districts. The elevator is 45 metres tall and can carry up to 20 people at a time.
This Portuguese landmark became popular among tourists due to its panoramic views over central Lisbon. When visiting, do note that two different admission fees exist; one to ride the lift and one to enter the viewing platform. However, if you have a Lisboa Card, both activities are included at no additional cost.
🏨 Nearest accommodations to the Santa Justa Lift
- Lisboa Carmo Hotel (4-star rating)
- Lisbon Serviced Apartments - Avenida
☂️ See the Santa Justa Lift on a tour
Chiado Square
Chiado is a bustling neighbourhood in Lisbon. A popular area in the district is Praça Luís de Camões, also known as Chiado Square. The small square is located between the Bairro Alto and Baixa districts and is surrounded by various shops, theatres, museums, cafes, and restaurants.
If you are looking for gifts to bring back home from Lisbon, Chiado Square is an ideal spot to do some souvenir shopping. Also, just a little bit further from the square, you will come across important cultural sites, such as the ruins of Carmo Church, Martires Basilica, and the National Opera House.
The square becomes even more exciting in the evening, which is when most of the chic cocktail bars, restaurants, and pubs open their doors. So if you are looking for fantastic nightlife, head back to the Chiado neighbourhood later in the evening.
🏨 Accommodations close to the Chiado
- Lisbon Destination (scored highly by guests)
- Altis Avenida Hotel (rated 5-stars)
☂️ See the Chiado on a tour
- History, Stories & Lifestyle Walking Tour (highly sought-after)
- Private City Tour - Highlights of Lisbon
Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa
Lisbon Cathedral, also called The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major or Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa in Portuguese, is another of the historical landmarks in Lisbon that you should visit. This church was constructed around 1147 and has had to withstand earthquakes and subsequent reconstructions since its initial construction.
Despite natural disasters affecting the structure, the church has been rebuilt and is open to visitors today. It is also the oldest church in the city and was designated a National Monument in 1910.
Due to additions over the last hundreds of years, you can admire many styles of architecture when visiting, including Gothic, baroque, and Romanesque.
Along with exploring the cathedral's interior architecture, you will find a museum inside. This museum collection features religious works of art and other cultural artifacts, with many dating back centuries.
🏨 Places to stay close to the Lisbon Cathedral
- The Lift Apartments by RIDAN Hotels (4-star rating)
- Browns Central Hotel
☂️ Discover the Lisbon Cathedral on a tour
- Private City Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk (usually sells out)
- City Highlights Tuk-Tuk Tour With Pickup
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Miradouro das Portas do Sol is an excellent viewpoint that offers stunning views over Lisbon. While you can head to this lookout anytime, going around sunset is a great idea. The lookout sits within the district of Alfama.
Once at the top, you can take in the vistas of this part of Lisbon, including its iconic white buildings with orange roofs. You can also spot Castelo de São Jorge and some other local landmarks. As you arrive, you will also see the St. Vincent statue (Estátua de São Vicente).
Visitors will additionally find a small cafe and some patio tables at the lookout, so you could grab a drink and relax as you watch the sun go down over Lisbon. Miradouro de Santa Luzia is another lookout point to check out, located next to Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
🏨 Stay nearby the Miradouro das Portas do Sol
- TURIM Saldanha Hotel (good value)
- Residencial Florescente (rated highly)
Arco da Rua Augusta
Between Miradouro das Portas do Sol and your next attraction of the day, Mercado da Ribeira, make a stop at Arco da Rua Augusta, or Rua Augusta Arch. This landmark is a popular place to take pictures in Lisbon and has sat in the city since its completion in 1873.
The stone arch was built to commemorate Lisbon's reconstruction after the devastating earthquake of 1755. It features a variety of statues of historical figures and stands approximately 11 metres high. You can also see the Portuguese coat of arms in the center of the arch.
Pink Street is another of the best things to see in Lisbon in 2 days if you want to snap some more unique photos. You can head here earlier in the day or also stop by on the way to Mercado da Ribeira.
🏨 Places to stay close to the Arco da Rua Augusta
☂️ Explore the Arco da Rua Augusta on a tour
- Lisbon Full Day Small-Group Tour - The Most Complete Lisbon City Tour (usually sold out)
Mercado da Ribeira
One of the Lisbon highlights for foodies is visiting Mercado da Ribeira, also known as Time Out Market. The much-loved marketplace is open from the morning through late night, meaning you can go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. As the market is close to Miradouro das Portas do Sol, visiting for dinner is a good idea.
At the market, you will discover an array of vendors serving dishes from across the world. So whether you want traditional Portuguese dishes, contemporary Asian cuisine, pizza, or almost anything else, you will find it here! You can also pick up dishes from a few vendors to enjoy together.
After your main meal, you can grab dessert from one of many sweet vendors. Options range from French pastries to doughnuts and, of course, pastéis de nata. Before or after your food, you can stop at a bar for drinks, and there are terraces to sit out on if it is warm.
🏨 Stay nearby the Mercado da Ribeira
- Vila Garden Guesthouse (highly rated)
- Ibis Styles Lisboa Centro Liberdade NE
☂️ Experience the Mercado da Ribeira with a tour
- Two Hour Lisbon Sunset & Wine Sailing Tour (a top tour)
In Summary
If you are planning a quick trip and have been wondering what to do in Lisbon for two days, this in-depth itinerary should have given you lots of ideas. Lisbon has an array of interesting sights, and while it is not easy to see everything in only two days, it can definitely be done.
As you explore, you will see stunning architecture, unique historical sites, and charming European streets and squares. You can also try delicious dishes and snap photos of the beautiful Lisbon scenery, all in only 48 hours!
This guide is a suggestion. Feel free to add and remove stops or switch up the itinerary as it suits you. You may also want to go on a guided walking tour that will take you to the top Lisbon sights.
In addition, if you wish to explore more and don't mind using public transportation, you can take the Tram 28 line that goes through the best parts of Lisbon.
You could also plan a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. No matter what you see and how long you stay, you will surely be impressed!
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