Lisbon is an exciting city that you could spend weeks in and never run out of things to do. Realistically, you probably only have 2 days in Lisbon, which is why you’re here.
To help maximise your time, I’ve created this detailed 2-day Lisbon itinerary including the very best must-see highlights. This will help you get straight to the point so that you don’t miss out on anything important!
The bustling Portuguese capital is the ideal European weekend escape. Rich in history, full of stunning tiled buildings, a great nightlife scene and sunny weather for most of the year, Lisbon really packs a punch.
Whether you’re a fan of delicious food and wine, a history lover, or you’re just looking for a fun night on the town, Lisbon has it all. There is truly something for everyone in this vibrant and captivating city.
In addition to being a great city break, it’s the perfect place to base yourself to explore more of the country. Check out this guide for a list of the best day trips from Lisbon!
Read on to discover Lisbon’s most popular tours and tickets, the best hotels for every price range and how you should plan to spend 2 days in Lisbon!
Beautiful view over the Alfama from the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara viewing platform
Table of Contents
How to Spend 2 Days in Lisbon
Lisbon Transportation Tickets and Tours
Hop-On Hop-Off Lisbon
A great way to save money and time is to purchase the 48 hours in Lisbon ticket when you first arrive in the city. This ticket gives you hop-on hop-off access to 2 different sightseeing bus routes.
It allows you the flexibility of being able to see the city at your own pace. This ticket covers the Lisbon downtown area as well as the Belém district.
The hop-on hop-off Lisbon ticket also includes tram rides, the Santa Just Lift and Lisbon Funiculars. Stopping at many major attractions around the city, this is an easy and stress-free way to sightsee during your 2 day Lisbon itinerary.
➤Find more info and book the hop-on hop-off ticket here
The beautiful cathedrals of Lisbon
Lisbon Card
For one price, the Lisbon Card gives you access to unlimited use of the public transportation system. Instead of buying a new bus or train ticket each time, this pass provides flexibility and convenience to get around easily during your 2 day stay in Lisbon.
On top of that, the ticket includes a range of discounts and free entry to popular sites and museums around Lisbon. The Lisbon card also gives you skip-the-line access to top attractions such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
Lisbon is a fairly spread out city with many hills and several different districts. While walking is a great way to explore, you will end up using public transportation at some point during your stay.
➤Find prices and more info here
Lisbon Walking Tour
When you first arrive in Lisbon, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with a walking tour to learn insider stories and history from a local guide.
Get the best intro to Lisbon while exploring some of the oldest neighbourhoods, most beautiful squares and prettiest alleys of the city.
Let a local guide take you to all the best city viewpoints and photo spots on this highly rated 3 hour Lisbon walking tour.
This is Lisbon’s most popular walking tour which departs daily from the heart of the city. There are several starting times offered throughout the day depending on availability.
➤Find tour prices and availability here
Getting to and from Lisbon Airport
Lisbon Metro – The easiest and cheapest way to travel to and from the airport is by taking the Lisbon Metro. The Metro has a direct line which runs from the airport to the city centre in 20 minutes. This journey will cost you €1.50 for a single fare ticket.
Lisbon Airport Transfers – If you’re traveling with a group or just prefer a more efficient way of getting to the city centre, booking an airport transfer is the best option. This airport transfer service will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel for a price of €25 per group.
It’s the same price as a taxi service but more convenient as you can book ahead of time and know the driver will be waiting for you at the arrival’s hall. Find out more information and book your Lisbon Airport transfer here.
The stunning Belém Tower
2 Days in Lisbon – Day 1
Day 1 will be spent exploring the Alfama + Barrio Alto districts.
Alfama District
The historic Alfama district is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood. It’s made up of steep, narrow streets that span from the Tagus River all the way up to the São Jorge Castle.
Packed with quaint cobblestone alleys and colourful tiled buildings, the Alfama district is the perfect place to kick off your 2 days in Lisbon.
Take a step back in time as you explore the ancient backstreets and find all the best viewpoints and photo opportunities as you go. Stop at cute cafes and little shops as you wind your way through the maze of medieval streets.
You’ll also come across some impressive churches in the Alfama district such as the Se Cathedral and the Igreja de Santo António. Make sure to stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzi for some Insta-worthy views!
Tram 28
You haven’t been to Lisbon if you haven’t taken a ride on one of those iconic yellow trams. The historic Tram 28 trundles along the steep streets of the Alfama district, ending its journey at the São Jorge Castle. If you’re tired of walking up the hills, why not let the tram do the work?
The Tram 28 will take you on a scenic journey through the Alfama district. Take a seat and people watch as you pass through picturesque streets with beautiful pastel-coloured buildings lining each side.
Since the Tram 28 is an extremely popular attraction in Lisbon, they tend to fill up quickly. The best time to avoid queues and crowds is to arrive early in the morning, preferably before 10 am.
Aim to arrive at the Martim Moniz Square nice and early to get a spot on the Tram 28 without having to wait in a long queue.
The iconic Tram 28
São Jorge Castle
Lisbon’s most famous landmark is the impressive 11th century hilltop castle that towers over the city below. Make your way all the way up the Alfama district to find the São Jorge Castle perched at the top. If you don’t feel like walking, take the tram!
The São Jorge Castle has survived through a turbulent history from the fall of the Romans to the take over of the Visigoths; it’s lived through wars and conflicts between the Arabs and Christians. The history of this castle is extensive and so fascinating. You can learn all about it at the archaeological museum within the castle grounds.
Avoid waiting in line to enter the castle by booking a skip-the-line ticket which includes a guided intro. Allow for around 1-2 hours to fully explore the inside and grounds. For a panoramic view over the city and river, the castle fortress is the best place to go!
Opening Hours – 9am – 9pm daily
Tickets – €10/adult, Free/children under 12
Skip-the-line ticket + tour guide – €31.50
Praça do Comércio
After having lunch somewhere in the Alfama district, take a stroll down to the riverside to see Libon’s most important and beautiful square: Praça do Comércio formerly known as Terreiro do Paço.
This is also called the gateway to Lisbon and you’ll find a big statue surrounded by 18th century symmetrical yellow buildings with a massive arch in the middle. Shops and outdoor cafes line the plaza and surrounding area.
Historically, this is where the royal palace of Lisbon once stood before being damaged in the 18th century earthquake. During the medieval times, this area was an important gateway to Lisbon.
Elevador de Santa Justa
On your way to the Bairro Alto district, make sure to stop by the historic Elevador de Santa Justa. Originally built in 1902, this unique elevator was made to lift passengers up from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo area.
It was once a vital method of transportation for locals but has now become a top tourist attraction. At the top of the lift there’s a viewing platform where you’ll find sweeping views over the city.
Since it’s become very touristy, you can expect to wait in a queue. If you wish to ride the lift, it’s best to avoid the peak time of the middle of the day, before 10 am or after 4 pm is ideal.
A round trip ticket will cost €5.30 and includes entry to the viewing platform at the top. If you buy the Lisbon Card, your ride on the Santa Justa Lift is covered, however access to the viewing platform will cost you €1.50.
Opening Hours – 7:30am – 9pm daily
Tickets – €5.30, free with the Lisbon Card
Santa Justa Lift
Pink Street
If you’re hunting for that perfect Instagram spot during your 2 days in Lisbon, you can’t miss the Pink Street! Located only a 10 minute walk from the Elavador de Santa Justa, make your way toward the waterfront to discover this little gem.
Once you’ve got your fill of fresh IG material, carry on to the Bairro Alto district which isn’t too far away. Or you could stick around the Pink Street as the bar scene around here is actually pretty good!
Bairro Alto District
During the afternoon of Day 1, make your way over to the Bariro Alto district which is about a 20 minute walk if you’re coming from the Alfama area.
If you prefer to catch a bus, get on the 28E from Largo das Portas and then get off at the stop Calhariz – Bica. The journey takes around 15 minutes, see directions on Google Maps.
By day, the Bairro Alto district is a chilled out scene full of luxury shops and trendy cafes. By night, this place completely transforms with an endless amount of bars and restaurants to choose from.
The Bairro Alto district is home to Lisbon’s best food and nightlife scene. If you’re up for a fun night out or simply looking to find the best tapas restaurant, look no further.
Spend some time exploring the cobbled streets of Bairro Alto, admiring the centuries old buildings and vibrant street art that decorates the alleys.
Colourful streets of Bairro Alto
Elevador da Bica
An absolute must-see during your 2 days in Lisbon is the iconic Elevador da Bica. The little yellow 19th century funicular runs up and down the steep streets of the Bairro Alto district. Even if you don’t plan to ride it, you have to stop here anyway to grab that cheesy but essential “I went to Lisbon” photo.