Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by AMANDA CASTILLO
How to Spend 4 days in Lisbon
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, gorgeous beaches, and overflowing history, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is also known for having some of the friendliest people in the World. Portugal as a whole is where you can find more affordable prices compared to other European hotspots. How can you go wrong?
Visiting Portugal is also slowly rising to one of the most popular destinations worldwide and for good reasons. Enjoy this guide and create an excellent itinerary and the perfect 4-day trip in Lisbon. You’ll know everything about Lisbon by the end of this post. When to go? What to Pack? and What to See?
Why Lisbon?
Why not?! Although a relatively small country, there is so much to do and see. Unless you have a few weeks or more to spend visiting Portugal, don’t try to rush or cram in everything. Use this guide for visiting Portugal to make the most of your time and trip. Arguably, the top three parts of Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve which you can read all about in my other posts. This country has so many gorgeous places to explore and discover beyond these top three. However Lisbon is where most Portugal visits begin and for good reason.
Local transportation is straightforward throughout Portugal; however, having a car gives you much more flexibility and opportunities to go rogue and find your own treasures along the way.
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and one of Europe’s most captivating Cities, is known for its history, unique architecture, modernized culture, nightlife, and, of course, delicious food. It is just a hop, skip, and jump away from the unmissable Sintra, an easy day trip from the City.
Lisbon has magnificent open plazas, music playing, gorgeous Cathedrals, quaint cafes, and exciting nightlife. You will love this City. Not to mention the warm welcome from locals and the colorful buildings that line the streets. The main attraction is the truly the City itself, and the best way to get acquainted is by jumping on the infamous #28 Tram.
The Lisbon Card
I recommend buying the Lisbon Card online and picking it up at the airport if you are flying into Lisbon. There are also other designated areas to pick up the card as well. 
A 24-hour Lisboa Card costs: €21 for an adult and €13.50 for a child.
A 48-hour Lisboa Card costs: €35 for an adult and €19.50 for a child.
A 72-hour Lisboa Card costs: €44 for an adult and €23 for a child.
Things to do
Day 1. #28 Tram €3/€10
Although it is just a tram, you may think, what is the big deal? But it just so happens to go past many of the City’s most significant landmarks in districts like Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela.
The 1930s yellow “Remodelado” trams navigate through narrow streets and hills, making this a unique adventure and an attraction of its own. The entire length of the route takes approximately 50 minutes. A one-way ride can cost €3 however I suggest the 24-hour pass, which is €10, and includes trams, metro and even the buses. This makes the most sense if you plan to make various stops and do some sightseeing along the way.
Cemetery Prazeres
Head west on, the #28 Tram takes you to Cemetery Prazeres, which is located just steps from the station. It might sound weird to have visiting a cemetery on your itinerary, but they really can be likened to museums as the occupant’s love of art and their final resting place collide. The Prazeres admission is free and has magnificent artwork to see. The most influential families in Lisbon hired architects, sculptors, and other artists to customize their mausoleums and tombs. Established in the late 1800s after a cholera outbreak, it is now one of the World’s most beautiful and famous cemeteries, housing the largest mausoleum. You can take a guided tour or experience at your own leisure. You will undoubtedly enjoy amazing views of Lisbon, the river, and the beautiful bridges. There is also an existing chapel, where you can see a collection of artifacts dedicated to funeral ceremonies and an old autopsy room.
Alfama District
The Alfama district of Portugal is the oldest, most charming district in all of Lisbon and home to some of the most iconic buildings. You will want to spend at least half a day here. The best way to explore is getting lost down the labyrinth of alleys and side streets adorned with cute shops, quaint cafes, gorgeous views, and traditional Fado music playing nearby. I say get lost loosely, though. Have a general idea of what you want to see because it is easy to miss out on the main sights as you wander down the endless cobblestone streets. Below are some highlights of Alfama you will want to take advantage of.
Insiders Tip: Local transportation in Lisbon is a great idea even if you have rented a car to go to different parts of Portugal. With the steep paths and stairs, this is a great idea and will save time from point A to B without wearing you out.
Take the #12 or #28 tram up to Largo da Garca and then walk downhill through Alfama.
Castelo de São Jorge (Adult €15,00/€7,50)
Castelo de São Jorge, or Lisbon Castle, is an ancient castle at the highest point in Alfama that was founded by Romans dating back to the 2nd Century BC. It was heavily fortified to protect past Portuguese Kings and Bishops. It is a big part of early Portuguese history and the location where the Christians defeated the Moors in 1146. It is definitely worth spending the hour to enjoy the history and museum along with magnificent views from the top.
Igreja de San Antonio
Igreja de San Antonio is a beautifully built Baroque-Rocco style Cathedral dedicated to the Patron Saint of Lisbon, Saint Anthony. The baroque woodwork inside the Church is considered some of the finest in Portugal. The Church is on the main road from Baixa to Alfama, less than a 5-minute walk from the Rossio metro station. There are no fees for any part of the Church; however, keep in mind to be respectively dressed.
Se Cathedral
With 800 years of history, The Se Cathedral is a must. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and offers free admission. It is Lisbon’s most essential and iconic religious building. This magnificent Church is Gothic but with Romanesque vibes. The austere interior is nothing compared to the extravagant Mosteiros dos Jeronimos and other baroque churches in other parts of Lisbon. It’s still worth visiting and nearby other epic sites to see.
Panteao Nacional €7,50
Panteao Nacional is the National Pantheon of Portugal, standing tall with exquisite architecture. It houses the tombs of many critical Portuguese figures, such as the famous poet Luis De Camo and explorers Vasco Da Gama and Henry the Navigator. Don’t go on a Monday, though, the doors will be closed! I also recommend using an audio guide to learn about all the incredible history.
Day 2. Baixa District
A great place to start your second day is in Baxia at Rossio Square. It is the most lively square in the City, no matter the hour. Rossio Square, aka the main square, and rightfully so, is the perfect place to hang out and take in the moment with a drink and watch the World go by. The main square is lined with delicious cafes, and indulging in drinks and traditional aperitivos is a must. The square has two beautiful Baroque fountains at each end, and a monument dedicated to Dom Pedro IV is in the center of the square. With “The Dom” at the top, the monument stands 27 meters high. On the statue’s pedestal are marble allegories of Justice, Wisdom, Strength, and Moderation. Not just an average square, this square was uniquely paved with cobblestones in wave patterns that have been reproduced throughout Portugal, in Rio de Janeiro and Macau, former colonies of Portugal.
Santa Justa Lift & View Point
Elevator: € 5.30 (US$ 5.80) (return)
Viewpoint: € 1.50 (US$ 1.70) (elevator not included)
Built in 1902 and connecting the Baixa neighborhood to the Bairro Alto district is the Santa Justa Lift, aka Elevador do Carmo. It is the fastest way to get to and from and has become a popular tourist attraction. Influenced by Gustave Eiffel, the structure stands 147 Ft (45m) tall and was built in the same style as the renowned French architect.
The same techniques were used in some of the funiculars in France around the same time. There is also an observation deck at the top with views of Baixa, notably one of Lisbon’s most famous viewpoints.
Fast track your experience when you have the Lisbon Card for this attraction included with purchase.
A Fun Fact about the lift is that going up, it can hold 20 people, but only 15 going down. It was also powered by a steam engine until 6 November 1907, when an electric motor was installed.
Carmo Convent
Admission is €5.00. 20% discount with the Lisboa Card.
Just a short distance from the Santa Justa Lift and very easy to find is the Carmo Convent and Ruins. It is one of the most fascinating landmarks in Portugal and is located near other unmissable sites. Carmo is a Gothic-style monastery from the 14th Century left in ruins after an earthquake in 1755 that struck Lisbon and destroyed most of the City.
The Gothic ruins show beautifully arched doorways, pointed spires, and ornate carvings. Surprisingly, much of the artwork survived, and the Carmo Convent is now home to the Museum of Archaeology, housing unique artifacts from the times.
Bica Funicular €3.80
Take a break from the steep hills and hop on the Bica Funicular up to Bairro Alto and the Bica neighborhood. The nineteenth-century funicular ascends one of Lisbon’s steepest hills between Rua de São Paulo and Largo do Calhariz via Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, where you will find distinctive buildings, little shops, and excellent restaurants. Bica Funicular, in particular, is considered Lisbon’s most picturesque of all funiculars. 
I just love that word, funicular. Tickets to ride the Bica funicular can be bought directly from the driver for €3.80, which allows two trips up the hill and back down, or down and then back up, on the same day. Those who purchased the 24-hour public transportation card can ride it for free.
Time Out Market/ Mercado da Ribeira
Feeling hungry? You can’t miss the Time Out Market, originally Mercado da Ribeira, built in the 1890s. Eat like a local and indulge in this fabulous food hall with Michelin Star chefs, fun bars, and shops open Sunday to Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.- Thursday to Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 a.m. on the weekends. It’s a foodie’s paradise in a fun atmosphere.
With a total of 24 restaurants and 8 bars, which are owned mainly by famous Portuguese chefs, there is literally something for everyone, even for the pickiest eaters. The market is located in the now swanky Cais do Sodré, one of the most popular neighborhoods in Lisbon.
Time Out Market is located directly across from the Green Line station/Cais do Sodré stop and should be on your itinerary when visiting Portugal.
Rua Cor de Rosa aka Pink Street
While in Cais do Sodré, head on over to Pink Street. It is happening and hot but not as “hot” as it once was when it was known as the red light district of Lisbon. It was an important port city with shady beginnings. It’s where sailors would come into the City for the debauchery of gambling and drinking and to find a particular type of company to keep them cozy in the brothels.
However, now it is full of fun nightlife and great bars, and hello, it’s pink. The street is literally painted pink. I love pink! Since gentrifying the area, the shadiness has subsided, and it is a hot spot tourist destination where the best nightlife in Lisbon is found.
Day 3. Belém District
A great idea for day three or four is visiting the picturesque Belém District. One of the most exciting districts in Lisbon is located on the Tagus River. Belém is home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, which represent Portugal’s most prosperous period and are definitely worth visiting. But you can easily spend the entire day here exploring all its unique wonders or just a few hours and still be left in awe. Belém is also where Vasco da Gama set off in 1497 to discover India, East Africa, and Brazil. It’s pretty cool history if you ask me. It only takes around 30 minutes from Lisbon by tram to reach Belém District. Take the tram nº 15 at the Cais do Sodré station, in the Praça do Comércio. There is no need for a car, you can walk around Belém easily and see the most important sites and then some on foot. You can also reach Belém by boat from the River Station. However, beware that the ferry times are limited to and from Belém. Still, the views of Lisbon from the Tagus River are absolutely spectacular. There’s nothing like experiencing the City from the water that is so richly tied to the history and culture of Lisbon.
Belém Tower € 6
Start your adventure in Belém at The Belém Tower. A 16th Century Tower and architectural jewel in typical Manueline style built to defend and protect Lisbon from incoming raids by enemy ships along the Tagus River.
The Belém Tower, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was also the main port for Portuguese explorers and the gateway to Lisbon. Inside the tower, you’ll see the windows with cannons and pits where prisoners were held and the spiral staircases connecting all five floors. At the top of the tower is a beautiful rooftop terrace and a very interesting gargoyle in the shape of a rhinoceros.
Important: Pastéis de Belém
Pastéis de Belém or pastéis de nata is a must try sweet treat. Take a break after the tower and head to Pastéis de Belém on your way to the Monastery.
Don’t worry if you see a long queue; the line moves fast, so it is well worth the stop. Indulge in a delicious crisp, puff pastry crust filled with a scrumptious baked custard that melts in your mouth. Pastéis de Belém, in particular, is known for specializing in the original pastéis de nata, created at the nearby Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in the 1800s.
Jerónimos Monastery & Church of Santa Maria de Belém
A main attraction in Lisbon is the Jerónimos Monastery, one of Portugal’s most ornate religious buildings and a UNESCO site since 1983. Spend an hour or so admiring and exploring the Monastery, which took over 100 years to finish. It was initially built as a modest building, but it was further funded and upgraded by the spice trade of the 16th Century. Elaborate stonework surrounds the grounds, which are adorned with Manueline-style cloisters (Portuguese Gothic Style)
The Church of Santa Maria de Belém is physically attached to the Jerónimos Monastery but is visited via a separate entrance. (that includes its own line) It is one of the most significant churches in Lisbon.
I strongly recommend buying your tickets ahead of time and arriving before the doors open at 10:00 a.m. to make the most of your time in Belém. This site is included with the Lisbon Card.
Day 4. Sintra
One of the most picturesque and fairytale places in the World is Sintra. Located just 25 km from Lisbon, roughly 45 minutes, this is the perfect day trip. You can absolutely stretch your time out over several days if you have the time. There is plenty to see and do. I am still deciding which I enjoyed more between a guided tour and exploring on my own in Sintra. You can see a lot and even learn more than you would if you were alone, but having the luxury to go at your own pace is always special. It adds another layer and a sense of adventure to your trip as you navigate through public transportation in another country. Plus, it is budget-friendly and easy to use in Sintra.
With tours, you may be rushed through sights you find more interesting than the others, etc. Be sure to buy your tickets to the sites ahead of time if you’re not going on a guided tour. Getting around Lisbon is relatively easy and walkable with good shoes. Jumping on a local tuk-tuk is so much fun for getting around quickly and in style. Plus, they are so cute!
All of the main sites in Sintra are connected by the 434 tourist bus (€11.5 unlimited use) and run frequently for convenience during peak season. Consider having lunch in the old town center as there is not much to do near the main sights. The 434 bus route is a one-directional loop that leaves from the Sintra train station up to Pena Palace and the Moorish castle. It is a more affordable option than a taxi, Uber, or tuk-tuk. Walking to the Palace is very steep, a waste of time, and draining, especially in the summer. Even if there are long queues for the bus, it is still the best option.
Warning: Don’t drive to Sintra even if you have rented a car. The historic center is closed to traffic, and there are always jam-packed streets surrounding the area and no parking. If you’re not on a guided tour, the train from Lisbon and the bus is the way to go.
Palacio Nacional de Pena & Parque de Pena €14
Not to be confused with Palacio Nacional de Sintra, Palacio Nacional de Pena, aka Pena Palace, will without a doubt be the highlight of your trip. It is one of the finest Palaces in Europe that will take your breath away. Visits to the colorful castle are by a timed ticket, so if you’re not with a guided tour, purchasing your ticket in advance is very helpful and highly recommended as tickets are reserved by times.
The surrounding park has dramatic scenery and is well worth exploring. It sprawls over 200 hectares of forest, designed landscapes, and the same romantic architecture as the Palace. Inside the park are easy-to-follow footpaths, gorgeous views, cooling streams, and so much more you could spend hours exploring.
Castelo dos Mouros €8
The Moorish Castle is definitely one of the top things to do in Sintra, as there is a plethora of sights to see. It is different from the other nearby castles, giving it a unique charm and perspective from the rest. Built in the 9th/10th Century on the slopes of hills previously occupied by Neolithic communities in 5000 BC, the Moorish Castle defended the entire region at the height of the era. There is much to see inside the castle, such as ancient battlements, climbing defense towers, and epic views.
Insider tip: Fog can shroud the mountains during the low season, so try to be on weather watch when planning, if possible, as the views around Sintra are spectacular and part of its unique charm.
Historic City Center Sintra
Sinatra has unique terrain that allows you to split up the sites and the day. Try delicious food in the center of Sintra and wander around the old historic town for a while before heading to the next adventure. This is also the first part of Sintra that people encounter as they step off the train or bus. Luckily, there are many cafes and eateries as opposed to the nearby attractions, where there are none. You will notice around lunchtime the crowds increase, and you watch the center come to life.
Quinta da Regaleira €12
The ultimate neo-Manueline style Villa and Gardens are nothing short of magnificent. They are now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Built during the late 1800s, the Palace is elaborate and eccentrically decorated, complete with grottoes, fountains, wells, tunnels, and caves. There is also a spectacular chapel and aquarium that you don’t want to miss. It is also said that the architect, a Freemason, hid symbols related to alchemy, Masonry, the Knights Templar, and the Rosicrucian’s in the design.
Palacio Nacional de Sintra (optional) €10
The Palace of Sintra, also called the Town Palace, is not to be confused with Palacio Nacional de Pena. If you are limited on time, don’t feel bad if you don’t have time for this one. I say optional because you can skip the Palacio Nacional de Sintra as it is the least fascinating compared to the others. However, two iconic chimneys protruding out of the Palace have become another symbol of Sintra. This Palace is one of the most well-preserved Palaces in Portugal. It was also a favorite of essential Portuguese nobility from the 15th through 19th Century.
