Returning to Portugal has been on my mind for a while now, and this time I finally made it to Lisbon. Although I only had two days to explore the city, I feel like we managed to squeeze in quite a lot without feeling too rushed. Staying right in the heart of old Lisbon turned out to be a fantastic choice as we had easy access to all the main attractions and some amazing restaurants just steps away from our door.
If you’re planning a short trip, this 2-day Lisbon itinerary will help you make the most of your visit while still soaking up the city’s unique charm.
How to Get to Lisbon: Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Getting to Lisbon is simple, thanks to Humberto Delgado Airport’s excellent connections to major European cities and transatlantic hubs. The airport is conveniently located just a short distance from the city center. Lisbon’s efficient public transport system – including the metro, buses, and taxis – makes reaching your accommodation hassle-free.
Top Tip:
- Metro: Fastest and most affordable option to reach the city center.
- Aerobus: Ideal for tourists heading to key areas like Baixa or Alfama.
- Taxis/Rideshares: Convenient for late arrivals or heavy luggage.
Where to stay in Lisbon?
We stayed at Pensão Nova Goa, a budget-friendly hotel that proved to be a great choice for a short stay. The hotel offers fairly comfortable rooms, a 24-hour reception desk, and an excellent location for anyone planning to explore the city on foot. Despite being a little too loud at night, we had an amazing sleep and felt energized to start exploring after the first night.
Breakfast Tip:
We grabbed breakfast at A Padaria Portuguesa, where the fresh sandwiches and unforgettable pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) were a delightful treat.
Our 2-day Lisbon adventure
We tried to strike a balance between sightseeing, relaxing, and just enjoying the vibe of the city. Here’s how our plan looked in the end:
Day 1 – Exploring central Lisbon, Belem Tower & Bairro Alto
We kicked things off by wandering through the central part of town, checking out the charming streets, lively squares, and the famous yellow trams rattling along the narrow roads. The highlight of the morning was visiting the Maritime Museum – a great spot to dive into Portugal’s impressive seafaring history. The museum’s exhibits showcase detailed ship models, maps, and artifacts from Portugal’s Age of Exploration. One unexpected gem was their fantastic cafeteria, which offers delicious pastries, a very affordable lunch menu, and a lovely seating area overlooking the gardens – perfect for a quick break.
Later in the afternoon, we made our way to Belem Tower. The view from the area was beautiful, especially with the shimmering waters of the Tagus River behind it. Unfortunately, there was a huge line of visitors waiting to get inside, so we decided to skip going in and instead took a relaxing stroll along the nearby promenade. The area is lovely for a walk, and we also stopped to admire the impressive Monument to the Discoveries. The towering structure pays tribute to Portugal’s famous explorers and makes for a striking landmark along the waterfront.
In the evening, we explored Bairro Alto, which absolutely buzzes with life after dark. The streets fill with people, the sound of chatter and laughter blending with the music of talented street musicians playing everything from Fado to upbeat tunes. It’s one of those places where you can just wander aimlessly, popping into bars or grabbing a drink at a street-side table while soaking in the atmosphere. Definitely a must-see if you enjoy a good vibe in the evenings!
Day 2 – Cascais, Boca do Inferno & Lisbon Aquarium
The second day started with a short trip to Cascais, which we reached by taking a local train – an affordable and easy option for getting there. The train ride itself was pleasant, offering some nice coastal views along the way.
Once in Cascais, we wandered through the charming streets of the town on our way to Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), a dramatic rock formation where the waves crash with incredible force. Cascais itself has a fantastic small coastal city vibe – lots of cool shops, inviting cafes, and a generally relaxed atmosphere. After spending some time admiring the power of the waves at Boca do Inferno, we treated ourselves to some delicious ice cream from a nearby stand – a perfect way to cool off in the warm weather.
After Cascais, we hopped on a train back to Lisbon to visit the aquarium. I’ve been to a few aquariums before, but this one really impressed me. The Oceanarium is massive, and we spent a good chunk of the afternoon exploring its different zones. The central tank, filled with various species from different ocean ecosystems, was simply mesmerizing – I could have watched those graceful rays and sharks glide by for hours.
Other places to visit while in Lisbon
Algarve’s Beautiful Beaches
Another great addition to a Lisbon trip is heading south to the Algarve region. Known for its stunning beaches, golden cliffs, and charming coastal towns, the Algarve offers a perfect beach escape. It’s easily reachable by train or bus from Lisbon, with the journey taking around 3 hours. To truly enjoy the Algarve, I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 days exploring towns like Lagos, Albufeira, or Tavira. Whether you’re into relaxing by the beach, exploring sea caves, or enjoying fresh seafood, the Algarve is a fantastic extension to your Portuguese adventure.
Fairy-Tale Palaces in Sintra
Another must-visit destination near Lisbon is Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just a short train ride away. Sintra is famous for its fairy-tale-like palaces. One of the most famous ones is Pena Palace, with its vibrant colors and eclectic design, is a highlight, along with the Moorish Castle offering stunning panoramic views over the town. Walking through the charming streets of Sintra is an amazing experience in itself. Give yourself some time to explore local cafés and shops. For a day trip, a few hours are enough to see the major sights, but if you want to explore more of the area’s hidden gems, I’d recommend spending at least one overnight stay.
Madeira
If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, it’s also worth considering combining it with a visit to Madeira. Lisbon serves as a great hub for visiting this incredible island, with frequent and affordable flights available. Madeira offers a completely different experience with its rugged coastline, dramatic landscapes, and lush greenery – perfect for hiking, scenic drives, and soaking in breathtaking views. Having visited both destinations, I’d say they complement each other perfectly – Lisbon offers the charm of a lively city, while Madeira provides a more peaceful, nature-filled escape. Combining both in one trip makes for an unforgettable Portuguese adventure.
Discovering Porto’s Riverside Charm
For those with extra time, Porto is another fantastic destination to consider while visiting Lisbon. Located about 3 hours away by train, Porto offers a delightful mix of historic charm, colorful architecture, and the famous port wine cellars. The city’s Ribeira district, with its vibrant riverside cafes and bustling vibe, is perfect for wandering. I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Porto to fully explore its winding streets, visit the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Douro River. Combining Lisbon and Porto in one trip gives you a wonderful taste of Portugal’s diverse culture and landscapes.
Final thoughts
Overall, Lisbon felt like the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxed coastal vibes. Two days didn’t feel like enough, but I’m happy with what we managed to experience. If you’re planning a trip, I’d definitely recommend staying in the old town for convenience and spending some time by the coast in Cascais if you get the chance. Oh, and don’t forget to try a pastel de nata – those little custard tarts are dangerously good!
Leave a Reply