7 days in Lisbon, Portugal: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Imagine a city that perfectly combines old-world charm with modern sophistication, and that’s Lisbon, Portugal for you! Nestled on the western coast of Portugal, Lisbon is a lively and vibrant city that offers its visitors the perfect blend of history, culture, and nightlife, with a generous dose of delectable Portuguese cuisine. As you stroll through its picturesque neighborhoods, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning pastel-colored buildings, trundling yellow trams, and the soulful sounds of Fado music. No wonder Lisbon has been a popular destination for digital nomads like yours truly. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with this city, too!
Things to consider before arriving to Lisbon
Budget-friendly: Lisbon is a European capital with a relatively low cost of living. Your wallet will thank you!
An outdoor lover’s paradise: With nearby beaches and stunning natural landscapes, Lisbon is perfect for those who love the great outdoors.
Hills, hills, hills: Lisbon is known for its hilly topography, so you’ll have to navigate some steep inclines. Let’s call it a built-in workout!
Perfect for: Culture and food lovers, history buffs, and nightlife enthusiasts.
What to bring with you
Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring the city’s beautiful streets and hills. Also, it’s essential to bring a light jacket or sweater, as evenings can get chilly. And don’t forget your swimsuit for those beach trips!
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Lisbon is from March to May and September to October since the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded than during the peak summer months.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is the main international gateway to the city. From the airport, you can take the Metro, Aerobus, or a taxi to reach the city center.
2. By train: Lisbon has several train stations, with Santa Apolónia and Rossio being the most centrally located. From neighboring countries and cities, the train is a scenic and comfortable option.
3. By bus: Several international and local bus companies conveniently connect Lisbon to other European cities, such as Madrid and Paris, as well as other destinations in Portugal.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Lisbon, Portugal
Day 1 – Arrival and Alfama District
Start your day by arriving at Lisbon airport and taking the metro to Alfama, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon. Get lost in the narrow streets and alleys, admire the colorful houses and take in the beautiful city views at Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Have lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau com natas or caldo verde. In the afternoon, visit the National Pantheon and the Lisbon Cathedral. End the day with a sunset tram ride on the famous Tram 28.
Day 2 – Belém and Jerónimos Monastery
Take a tram to Belém, a district located west of Lisbon, known for its historic monuments and pastries. Start by visiting the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, which celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Then, head to Pasteis de Belém, a bakery famous for its custard tarts, and enjoy them with a cup of coffee. In the afternoon, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its breathtaking architecture.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Sintra
Take a day trip to Sintra, a picturesque town located 30 minutes away from Lisbon by train. Visit the Pena Palace, a colorful and eccentric palace located on top of a hill, and the Castle of the Moors, a medieval castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, head to the historic center of Sintra and try some local sweets like queijadas and travesseiros.
Day 4 – Chiado and Bairro Alto
Explore the elegant Chiado district, known for its shops, theaters, and museums. Visit the Carmo Convent, a 14th-century convent that was destroyed during the 1755 Lisbon earthquake and left as a ruin, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Have lunch at a local restaurant and try some fresh seafood dishes. In the evening, head to Bairro Alto, a bohemian district known for its nightlife, and have a drink at one of its bars.
Day 5 – Belem Tower and Ajuda National Palace
Visit the Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its intricate carvings and decorative elements. Afterward, head to the nearby Ajuda National Palace, a neoclassical palace that was the residence of the Portuguese royal family. Enjoy a walk through its gardens before heading back to the city center.
Day 6 – Day Trip to Cascais and Estoril
Take a day trip to Cascais and Estoril, two coastal towns located 30 minutes away from Lisbon by train. Visit the Boca do Inferno, a cliff formation that resembles a devil’s mouth, and the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum. Afterward, head to Estoril and visit the Casino Estoril and its gardens. End the day by strolling along the picturesque streets of Cascais and enjoying some fresh seafood.
Day 7 – Castelo de São Jorge and Fado Music
Visit the Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of Lisbon. Explore its walls and towers, and learn about the history of the city. In the evening, head to a fado restaurant and enjoy traditional Portuguese music while having dinner.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Lisbon
After exploring Lisbon for 7 days, why not visit some nearby cities and towns?
Sintra
If you didn’t have enough time to explore Sintra fully, consider going back and visiting some of its other attractions, like the Quinta da Regaleira, a romantic palace and garden, and the Monserrate Palace, a 19th-century palace known for its exotic gardens.
Porto
Take a train to the north of Portugal and visit Porto, a city known for its wine, architecture, and river. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Palácio da Bolsa, a neoclassical building that houses the Porto Stock Exchange. Take a walk across the Dom Luís Bridge and admire the views of the Douro River.
Coimbra
Take a train to Coimbra, a city known for its medieval university and historic center. Visit the Biblioteca Joanina, a magnificent library that dates back to the 18th century, and the Sé Velha, a Romanesque cathedral. Enjoy a walk along the Mondego River and try some local specialties like leitão (roasted piglet) and queijo (cheese).
