Phylicia StitzelWow! Have you ever had a vacation that you felt like you blinked and it was over? That is kind of what it was like for this trip to Lisbon. If you only have a weekend in Lisbon, let me help you plan out what to do in 48 hours!
The first time I visited Portugal, or Lisbon we decided that a 4-day weekend, we planned to take a road trip to Portugal as a family.
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Imagine wandering through a labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways, each turn unfolding a story of the past beautifully blended with the vibrant pulse of contemporary city life. Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly capital, a city where each step tells a tale. With just 48 hours on the clock, you may think it’s a lofty goal to conquer Lisbon, but this city’s compact charm is perfect for those who fancy taking it all in on foot.
Let’s embark on a journey to navigate the bustling streets, historic haunts, and breathtaking viewpoints — all within two days. To streamline your adventure, we’ll delve into essential sights and recommend pre-purchasing tickets, ensuring that your weekend wander is both fulfilling and fluid.
Section 1: Exploring Lisbon on Foot
Walking through Lisbon isn’t just a means to get from point A to B; it’s a sensory experience that allows you to absorb the nuances of the city’s faunas: the azulejos-adorned buildings, the smell of roasted chestnuts, and the electric hum of its urban life. From Alfama to Chiado, each neighborhood is a short stroll away, connecting you with a diverse tapestry of Lisbon’s cultural offerings. Before you step out, don your comfiest shoes, grab a map (or your smartphone), and let’s prepare to thread an itinerary crafted by proximity and walking-friendly routes.
Section 2: Must-See Sights
In Lisbon, every corner is an invitation to witness history and culture. Prioritize these must-see sights to maximize your immersion:
- Meander through the Alfama district, the city’s oldest quarter, brimming with Fado bars and historical buildings.
- Soak in panoramic city views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro da Graça.
- Embrace the legacy of explorers at Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, masterpieces of Manueline architecture.
- Indulge in a creative hub at the LX Factory, teeming with art, cuisine, and quirky shops.
- Hunt for treasures at the Mercado da Ribeira or the Saturday flea market Feira da Ladra.
Also I highly recommend a self-guided walking tour. There is a website Kev MRC who has laid out free walking tours of Lisbon which was then broken up in three different sections to cover the main points.
Section 3: Pre-Purchasing Tickets to Avoid Long Lines
Time is of the essence, and with queues potentially swallowing precious hours, it’s wise to book ahead:
- Secure access to the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery before your visit to bypass the snaking lines.
- The Santa Justa Lift offers a unique viewpoint of the city, but its popularity prompts long waits; book tickets in advance.
- Take the storied Tram 28, a movable landmark of Lisbon — getting a pass ahead of time can save you a spot.
- Visit the impressive Lisbon Oceanarium; pre-purchase tickets for a seamless deep-dive into marine life.
Section 4: Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning: Ascend to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, followed by exploring the warren of streets in Alfama.
Lunch: Savory delights at a local taverna.
Afternoon: Immersive history at Jerónimos Monastery, pre-booked to guarantee entry.
Evening: Sunset at Belém Tower and indulging in the famous pastéis de nata.
Day 2:
Morning: A leisurely stroll in the Bairro Alto with a coffee stop at a lookout.
Lunch: Sample local fare at Mercado da Ribeira.
Afternoon: Culture dip in the Museu Nacional do Azulejo and retail therapy in Chiado.
Evening: Ride the Tram 28 to end your excursion with enchanting city lights.
I must say so far, Balem was my favorite neighborhood to visit…and not just because they had “wine with a view” on the street. There was something very “small town” about that neighborhood. The history that is peaking out of the coastline as well as built up into the city which climbs up the side of the hill that Lisbon seems to rest against.
I highly recommend taking these walking tours, it can cost if you find a location that you want to go in and explore but if you want to just see the city then you can do a good portion of that for free! There are tons of options for visiting and exploring the city, including little tuktuks that are like little taxis. You can also go on a walking tour with a guide!
However, you want to explore the city, just make sure you see it! We didn’t even get to see everything on our walking tours but each of the routes took us on an adventure of culture, history and a tiny touristy.
One thing that I loved about these walking tours was also the little “pop up” tapas joints along the side of the road, think of smaller food truck. But they set out tables, have music playing, serving food and drinks but are out in the open. It was amazing! And I noticed myself slowing down because I could enjoy a glass of wine and get some food too while still enjoying the view and culture of Lisbon. It was perfect!
A weekend wanderer’s paradise, Lisbon is best experienced with the freedom of two feet and the foresight of a planned route. With historic sights in abundance and cultural gems lurking at every corner, ensuring smooth access with pre-purchased tickets to popular attractions will leave you with memories rather than waiting woes. Follow our curated itinerary or let the cobblestones guide you spontaneously – either way, Lisbon’s enchantment is sure to captivate your traveler’s heart in just 48 hours.
