ONE DAY IN LISBON, PORTUGAL: A WONDERFUL 24-HOUR ITINERARY

If you only have one day in Lisbon, here’s the best itinerary for seeing everything you possibly can in such a short amount of time!

We only had a layover in Lisbon, so we had to be really efficient and see as much as possible in a day. This is how we managed to see Lisbon in 24 hours, and hopefully your one day in Lisbon will be equally productive, because there’s lots to see here!

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you.

WHERE IS LISBON?

Lisbon is the vibrant capital city of Portugal, situated on the western edge of Europe, next to Spain. This charming city is on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and it’s full of rich history, colorful streets, and stunning vistas.

I would say Lisbon is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in culture and adventure. It’s definitely better if you have more than one day in Lisbon, but you can still explore a lot of the city in a day.

Read more >>> A PERFECT DAY IN FUNCHAL, MADEIRA

WHY VISIT LISBON?

Lisbon is a very loved European city, and there’s many reasons for that. Here are some of the best reasons why visit Lisbon:

Firstly, Lisbon is worth visiting for its rich history and culture which date back centuries. The city’s historic neighborhoods, monuments, and museums provide a captivating journey through time, showcasing its diverse cultural heritage. If you’re a history buff, you’ll really love Lisbon.

Secondly, Lisbon has some of the most stunning architecture in Europe. From grandiose cathedrals to intricate tiled facades, Lisbon is home to architectural marvels at every turn. The iconic Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle are just a few examples of the city’s architectural treasures you need to explore. You can’t visit them all in one day though, so make sure you stay longer!

Next, for breathtaking views, there’s no place like Lisbon. Perched on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon offers some of the most breathtaking views in Europe. Whether you’re admiring the cityscape from São Jorge Castle, the panoramic vistas from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, or the sunset from Miradouro de Santa Catarina, the views are sure to leave you in awe.

Finally, Lisbon is a paradise for food lovers, with a culinary scene that’s as diverse as it is delicious. From indulging in fresh seafood at seaside eateries to sampling pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at local bakeries, every meal in Lisbon is a culinary adventure waiting to be savored.

These are just some of the reasons why Lisbon was and still is on my bucket list, and hopefully these reasons will inspire you to visit this gorgeous city for even longer than just one day in Lisbon.

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON?

If you have longer than one day in Lisbon, you’ll need a place to stay. When it comes to accommodations, Lisbon offers a wide range of hotels and apartments depending on your preferences and budget.

From boutique hotels in the historic Alfama district to luxurious resorts along the waterfront, there’s no shortage of options for a comfortable stay. For a more authentic experience, consider renting a cozy apartment in the lively Bairro Alto neighborhood, where you can immerse yourself in local life and enjoy easy access to Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife.

Here are some of the best apartments/hotels in Lisbon on Booking.com:

WHEN TO VISIT LISBON?

The perfect time to visit Lisbon largely depends on your personal preferences and experiences. Here’s a short summary of the weather and crowds throughout the year, that way you can choose the best time for yourself.

Spring is one of the best times to visit Lisbon. The weather is pleasantly warm and the city is blooming with colorful flowers. You can enjoy outdoor activities and tourist crowds are relatively low compared to the peak summer season. Autumn is similar with the weather still pleasant from the summer months, but you won’t be overwhelmed by tourists.

Summer might be the worst option to be in Lisbon, as it can be hot and crowded, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C. There are thousands of tourists so prepare yourself for long lines at attractions and crowded streets. However, if you enjoy the beach, summer is the only great option for you.

Winter in Lisbon is the wettest time of the year, but the weather is mild. Winter is an excellent time to explore indoor attractions such as museums, galleries, and historic sites. Additionally, hotel rates are often lower during this off-peak season.

We were in Lisbon at the end of November and it was enjoyable! It was around 12-14 degrees Celsius, so a bit chilly, but there were almost no tourists which is a great plus. The sun was in and out the whole day. Overall, it was a nice day trip but I would prefer spring of early autumn for our next visit.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN ONE DAY IN LISBON – ITINERARY

MORNING

Castelo de S. Jorge

Start your day by visiting the Castelo de S. Jorge. São Jorge Castle is a historic fortress located atop one of the highest hills in Lisbon, and it’s best you visit it in the morning. The gorgeous castle dates back to the Moorish period of Lisbon’s history, with its fortifications dating all the way to the 9th century.

One of the main attractions of São Jorge Castle is its breathtaking views of Lisbon and the surrounding area. You can climb the castle’s walls and enjoy panoramic vistas of the city’s historic neighborhoods, the Tagus River, and landmarks such as the Lisbon Cathedral and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

The entrance ticket to the castle is 15 euros for adults and 7.5 euros for children. You can book tickets on their website or on GetYourGuide below.

Alfama & Se de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral)

After exploring the castle, continue to one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Lisbon. Alfama is located on a hillside in the heart of the city, overlooking the Tagus River, right between the São Jorge Castle and the downtown Baixa district.

Alfama is characterized by a maze of narrow streets, winding alleys, and steep staircases. Furthermore, those cobblestone streets are lined with colorful buildings and traditional Portuguese tiles, creating a charming and atmospheric setting. Alfama is a really unique district worthy of exploring.

If you want to get to know Portuguese culture, you cannot miss Casas de Fado right there in Alfama. Strolling through the streets, you will experience the soulful melodies and emotional lyrics of fado in intimate venues called fado houses scattered throughout the neighborhood.

In this stunning district you’ll also find the Sé de Lisboa, more commonly known as Lisbon Cathedral. This cathedral is one of the oldest and most prominent landmarks in the city, and it’s situated on a hill overlooking the city and the Tagus River.

Due to its elevated location, the Lisbon Cathedral offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Alfama district, the Tagus River, and the city skyline. You can even climb to the top of the cathedral’s towers for an unforgettable perspective of the city’s historic center, which will surely be an unforgettable memory. The entrance ticket to the cathedral is 5 euros!

Praça do Comércio

After exploring Alfama, venture to one of the most iconic and historically significant squares in Lisbon, Praça do Comércio. This square occupies a prime position at the southern end of Rua Augusta, one of the city’s main pedestrian streets.

Right at the center of Terreiro do Paço (another name for Praça do Comércio) stands a monumental equestrian statue of King José I, an important Portuguese monarch. Walk through this prominent square and explore what was once home to the Ribeira Royal Palace.

Brunch Café

Sit down for a bite and relax at Brunch Café after walking through a big chunk of Lisbon. This excellent place offers incredible brunch and lunch options and it right between the Lisbon cathedral and the Commerce Square. It’s affordable, and has many vegan and vegetarian options, so you’ll surely find something right up your alley there!

AFTERNOON

Arco da Rua Augusta

Following your delicious brunch break, continue to the Rua Augusta Arch, an iconic landmark located at the northern end of Rua Augusta. The Arco da Rua Augusta is a stunning arch constructed in the neoclassical style, inspired by classical Roman architecture. You can admire it from afar, or you can climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon’s historic center for only 3.5 euros!

Rua Augusta

Continue from the Arch to Rua Augusta. The Rua Augusta is primarily a pedestrian-only street, making it a pleasant and safe environment for pedestrians to explore on foot. There, you can leisurely stroll along the street, browse the shops, and enjoy the vibrant street performances that often take place here.

Rua Augusta is a popular shopping destination, offering a wide range of stores selling clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and more. It’s a great place to shop for gifts or souvenirs from Lisbon. The street is dotted with outdoor cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the hustle and bustle of the city.

Rua Garrett

Adjacent to Rua Augusta, there’s Rua Garrett. It’s one of the most famous streets in the city, located in the historic Chiado neighborhood. Rua Garrett is lined with elegant buildings that showcase a mix of architectural styles, including neoclassical, baroque, and art nouveau. Many of these buildings have stunning facades decorated with intricate details, decorative elements, and wrought-iron balconies.

Similarly to Rua Augusta, Rua Garrett is famous for its upscale shops, boutiques, and designer stores. It’s a popular destination for shopping enthusiasts looking for high-quality products and unique finds. If you’re one of those enthusiasts, you’ll love Rua Garrett.

Ascensor da Bica & Ascensor da Glória

One of the main symbols of Lisbon is the famous yellow funicular. There are 2 places where you can catch those yellow funiculars and take incredible pictures with them. Here’s where to find them:

Firstly, there’s the Ascensor da Bica. The gorgeous yellow funicular will be waiting for you at the top of Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo. The scenery is charming, with the funicular right in between 2 rows of buildings and houses. You can catch it from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. There are always tourists waiting to snap a picture there, so be patient!

Secondly, you have Ascensor da Glória. Similarly, there’s a yellow funicular at Rua de Gloria which connects Bairro Alto and Baixa. You can take this funicular to reach the Miraduro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara. The funicular is beautiful, although the scenery at Ascensor da Bica is much nicer, so if you can visit only one, definitely choose that one!

Peixaria do Rossio

If you’re up for some late lunch or early dinner, check out the restaurant Peixaria do Rossio. This restaurant, situated in Baixa, offers great sea food and lovely service, all while being quite affordable. You’ll definitely be full and happy by the end of your meal here!

EVENING

Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

End your evening in Lisbon with some of the best views of the city from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. This viewpoint is one of Lisbon’s most popular viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.

It’s located in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, and you can easily reach it from Baixa by the famous Ascensor da Glória. This terraced viewpoint is adorned with gardens, benches, and a decorative tiled map of Lisbon on the ground.

This viewpoint attracts both locals and tourists because of its lively yet relaxed atmosphere. You can often find street performers, artists, and vendors selling snacks or souvenirs nearby, which makes the experience even more exciting.

You can enjoy this viewpoint at any point during the day, but the sunset is the most special part of the day out there!

IF YOU HAVE ADDITIONAL TIME, VISIT….

Here are some of the additional locations you can add to your itinerary if you’re staying for longer than 1 day:

Belém Tower
Jeronimos Monastery
Chiado
Sintra
Cascais

We had an incredible time spending our one day in Lisbon, so I hope this short itinerary will serve you well and give you motivation to explore Lisbon as much as you can in the amount of time you have!