One Day Itinerary in Lisbon: How to Spend 24 Hours in the City

Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Lisbon in one day? With only 24 hours, you can still experience the highlights of this stunning city. In this one-day itinerary in Lisbon, we’ll cover the best attractions, delicious food spots, and tips to make the most of your time. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, enjoying a Portuguese meal, or just soaking in the atmosphere, this guide will ensure that you see the very best of Lisbon.

What to See and Do in Lisbon

Lisbon, the charming capital of Portugal, is filled with rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views. With just one day in Lisbon, you’ll want to maximize your time by focusing on key attractions, delicious meals, and a bit of shopping. This one-day itinerary in Lisbon covers the must-see sites.

Morning: Belém and Breakfast

• 8:00 AM: Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Try a classic Portuguese custard tart (pastel de nata) and a coffee, like a “bica” (espresso). Manteigaria in Chiado or Pastéis de Belém are iconic places to taste these famous treats.
• 9:00 AM: Head to Belém, a historic district west of central Lisbon. Your first stop should be Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its stunning Manueline architecture and learn about Portugal’s maritime history.
• 10:30 AM: Walk over to Belém Tower, another UNESCO site and symbol of Lisbon’s Age of Exploration. The scenic views of the Tagus River here are not to be missed.
• 11:00 AM: Don’t forget to visit the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos), where you can take in panoramic views of the river and city.

Midday: Time Out Market and Tram 28

• 12:30 PM: For lunch, head back toward the city center to Time Out Market at Cais do Sodré. This bustling food hall offers an incredible selection of Portuguese and international dishes from some of the best chefs in the city. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or a traditional Portuguese dish like “bacalhau à Brás” (salted cod), you’ll find it here.
• 1:30 PM: After lunch, hop on the famous Tram 28, which winds through Lisbon’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. This is a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights, including the Alfama district with its narrow streets and traditional buildings.

Afternoon: Alfama and Baixa-Chiado

• 2:30 PM: Get off the tram in Alfama, the city’s oldest district. Wander the winding alleys, stop by the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé), and make your way up to Castelo de São Jorge for some of the best views in the city. Alfama’s charm lies in its maze of streets, which are perfect for getting lost in for an hour or so.
• 4:00 PM: Head toward the Baixa-Chiado district, the heart of Lisbon. Walk around Praça do Comércio, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, and Rossio Square, where you can enjoy Lisbon’s lively atmosphere.

Evening: Sunset and Dinner in Bairro Alto

• 6:30 PM: To catch the sunset, visit one of Lisbon’s many viewpoints, like the Miradouro de Santa Catarina or Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. These spots offer stunning views of the city as the sun sets over the river.
• 7:30 PM: For dinner, head to the Bairro Alto district, famous for its vibrant nightlife and Fado music. Choose a cozy restaurant to enjoy a hearty Portuguese meal. Consider dishes like grilled sardines or “caldo verde” (Portuguese soup). If you’re in the mood for some authentic Fado, stop by one of the local bars or restaurants offering live performances.

One Day in Lisbon – Is One Day Enough?

If you’re wondering whether one day in Lisbon is enough, the answer depends on your travel style. While Lisbon offers so much to explore, a well-planned itinerary can give you a taste of the city’s charm, history, and culture in just 24 hours. This one-day itinerary in Lisbon is designed to help first-time visitors see the essential sites and experience the best of what the city has to offer. Though you’ll only scratch the surface, one day can still provide a memorable and fulfilling experience.

What to Eat in Lisbon

• Pastel de Nata: A must-try, these custard tarts are a quintessential Portuguese dessert.
• Bacalhau: Cod is a staple of Portuguese cuisine, with countless recipes featuring this fish, including Bacalhau à Brás.
• Grilled Sardines: Especially popular in the summer, sardines are grilled to perfection and served with a side of salad or potatoes.
• Francesinha: A hefty sandwich with layers of meat, melted cheese, and spicy sauce.

If you’re looking for an authentic experience, Time Out Market and Bairro Alto are excellent places to find traditional dishes with a modern twist.

Tips for Shopping in Lisbon

Lisbon offers a variety of shopping experiences, from traditional markets to modern boutiques:

• Rua Augusta: This bustling pedestrian street in the Baixa district is perfect for souvenirs, fashion, and local products.
• LX Factory: A trendy, artistic area where you can find unique shops selling clothes, art, and handmade crafts.
• Feira da Ladra: Lisbon’s famous flea market held every Tuesday and Saturday, where you can hunt for vintage treasures and antiques.

Plan Your Stay in Lisbon

Where to Stay in Lisbon

• Baixa-Chiado: Best for first-time visitors, as it’s central and close to major attractions.
• Alfama: Perfect for those who love history and traditional charm.
• Bairro Alto: Ideal if you want to experience Lisbon’s nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and Fado houses nearby.

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer is also beautiful, but it can get very hot, and the city is more crowded.

How is the Weather in Lisbon?

Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, with average temperatures around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild and rainy, with temperatures hovering around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Spring and fall offer comfortable weather for walking and sightseeing.

Should You Rent a Car in Lisbon?

For a one-day itinerary in Lisbon, renting a car is unnecessary. The city has excellent public transportation, and most of the major attractions are easily accessible by walking or using trams, buses, or the metro. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding areas like Sintra or Cascais, renting a car may be more convenient.

How to Move Around in Lisbon

• Tram 28: The iconic tram route that winds through Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhoods.
• Metro: Efficient and affordable, Lisbon’s metro system is perfect for getting around the city.
• Buses and Trains: Reliable and easy to navigate, these options cover areas not serviced by the metro.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are widely available, and services like Uber operate in the city.
• Walking: Many of Lisbon’s attractions are within walking distance of each other.

How to Buy a SIM Card in Lisbon

Buying a SIM card in Lisbon is simple. You can purchase one at the airport, in mobile phone shops, or in convenience stores. Major providers include Vodafone, MEO, and NOS. Make sure your phone is unlocked for international use, and you’ll be set with a local SIM in no time.

Summary of the Day

Conclusion

Lisbon is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm. While one day might not seem like enough time, this one-day itinerary in Lisbon ensures you experience the city’s highlights and leave with a sense of its vibrant energy. With careful planning, 24 hours in Lisbon can be an unforgettable adventure.