Curator’s statement
Indulge in a weekend escape filled with great food, an abundance of sangria, captivating scenery and a vibrant nightlife. There is no place better suited for this perfect blend than Lisbon! Portugal, a breathtaking country in itself, demands a detour to its captivating capital, Lisbon. The following three-day itinerary offers just a glimpse into the extensive array of activities, picturesque locations and culinary delights awaiting you in Lisbon!
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Where to stay
The Ivens, Autograph Collection
Elegant oasis located in a 19th-century Portuguese building with three well-appointed Italian restaurants.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bairro Alto Hotel
This luxury boutique Lisbon stay combines refined, modern decor with a reverence for Lisbon's colorful heritage.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Pousada de Lisboa, Praça do Comércio
Elegant hotel in the heart of Lisbon with luxury rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Lumiares Hotel and Spa
An all-encompassing homage to the arts and crafts of Portugal housed in one elegant, 5-star hotel and spa.
Fora Perks
- ★
Hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The One Palacio da Anunciada
Luxury hotel in a 16th-century building in the heart of Lisbon.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
- ★
Welcome amenity.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
Unlock perks by contacting Casey to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon
Arrive in Lisbon by late morning to embark on an exciting day of exploration. Start your day at the closest Copenhagen Coffee Lab to you, there you fuel up on great coffee and some amazing pastries. Don't miss out on the extraordinary cinnamon roll with cream - it's truly a must-try!
To truly immerse yourself in the city, start exploring by foot. Keep in mind that Lisbon's terrain is hilly, so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Head to Castle Hill to visit Castelo de Sao Jorge, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a fascinating castle interior. After that, head over to Lisbon Cathedral to marvel at its stunning architecture.
After exploring these landmarks and working up an appetite, make your way to Time Out Market. Dive into a culinary adventure by trying various dishes from different stands. Highlights include Bacalhau A Bras from Miguel Castro E Silva, assorted croquettes from the Croqueteria and Portuguese meats and cheese from Manteigaria Silva. Don't forget to savor a traditional steak at Cafe De Sao Bento and save room for dessert at Manterigaria with their irresistible pasteis de nata.
Following your satisfying lunch, head over to Praça Do Comercio to explore and go over to Pink Street to admire the umbrellas in the sky in the daylight. Treat yourself to sangria at Portas do Sol terrace while enjoying the sunset at Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Be sure to walk over to Santa Luzia viewpoint for a great photo opportunity.
As the sun sets, return to your hotel to freshen up for dinner. Cervejaria Ramiro, featured in Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations", is a great option. Be prepared for a wait, but it's well worth it. Indulge in the shrimp in garlic, clams in garlic, tiger prawns, Edible Crab Without Peel and the irresistible bread with butter.
If you're up for more excitement, head back to Pink Street for a vibrant street party. Alternatively, for a more relaxed nightcap, visit Pavilhao Chines, a cool speakeasy-type bar themed with decor from two world wars and even has a pool table. Either option perfectly wraps up a great first day in Lisbon.
Day 2: Making Your Way to Belém
Prepare for another fulfilling day in Lisbon! Begin your morning by waking up early and making your way to Belém. Whether you choose to take a tram, train or opt for an Uber, the journey is part of the experience. Upon arrival, go straight over to Pasteis De Belém to get their renowned pasteis de nata. Expect a line, but it moves fast and the wait is well worth it. After this delightful start, explore the treasures of Belém, including the Belém Tower, the Jardim Oriental and the Jeronimos Monastery.
Once you've soaked in the sights of Belém, return to the main area and venture into the bohemian Bairro Alto. Discover a ton of hip and quirky restaurants, cafés and bars where you can enjoy lunches and drinks while continuing to immerse yourself in the neighborhood's charm. Be sure to check out the old houses in the neighborhood with lots of street art.
For a sophisticated evening, make your way to O Frade for dinner. As a Michelin restaurant, securing a reservation is advised. This intimate setting is the perfect backdrop to unwind from your busy day, accompanied by exceptional wine and delectable dishes. I highly recommend trying the duck rice, rabbit and clam cake for a memorable dining experience.
If you're in the mood for a night out, head to Park Rooftop later in the evening. Tucked away on top of a parking garage, this rooftop bar offers good music and a fantastic atmosphere. As you stroll back home, take in the lively street scenes. You might even catch some impressive street performers along the way. Another day in Lisbon awaits you.
Day 3: Start With Brunch at Hello, Kristof
On your final day in Lisbon, while your calves may be feeling the strain, there's still plenty to discover. Begin your day with a delightful brunch at Hello, Kristof. Throughout the day, be sure to treat yourself to a few more pasteis de nata.
After brunch, go check out the Santa Justa Lift and ascend to the top for views of the city. Next, go explore the historical Carmo Convent nearby.
For a quintessential Lisbon experience, hop on the iconic Tram 28, which will lead you to the charming Alfama area. Take time to wander through its streets, enjoy a leisurely late lunch and find a cozy spot where live Fado music enhances the atmosphere.
As the evening approaches, you have a variety of options. If you're in the mood for more scenic views, consider Javá Rooftop for a rooftop dining experience. For a taste of traditional fish dishes paired with Fado music, Baiuca is also a great choice. Alternatively, for an exquisite Michelin-starred dining experience known for its traditional Portuguese fare, don't miss Drogaria.
If you still have energy left for a night out, go over to Pensao Amor near Pink Street. This vibrant bar is the perfect destination to dance the night away, offering a lively and memorable conclusion to your time in Lisbon.
Day Trips:
Extend your Lisbon experience by dedicating an extra day exploring the enchanting town of Sintra, a must-see day trip from the city.
Need to know
If your visit coincides with a Tuesday or Saturday, make it a point to check out the Mercado De Santa Clara flea market.
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Travel Advisor
Casey Stein
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Lisbon.