Lisbon in 2 days: a full itinerary with Belém and Alfama
Quick answer
For 2 days in Lisbon, spend the first on Belém, the Baixa and the Chiado, and the second on Alfama, São Jorge Castle and the viewpoints. Avoid Mondays for the Jerónimos, which is closed. With a third day, make the trip to Sintra.
Hours and prices checked on
Point your camera at any artwork
Try it free in Lisbon
AnyArt recognizes paintings, sculptures and monuments and tells you their story in seconds, like a personal audio guide. Free for iPhone, iPad and Android.
Day 1: Belém, the Baixa and the Chiado
A day of monuments and strolling, with the city's gentlest slopes.
- 1
09:30 · Belém
Jerónimos Monastery
Free church and paid cloister. With AnyArt, point at the Manueline portal to hear its story.
- 2
11:00 · Belém
Belém Tower and pastéis de nata
A stroll along the waterfront and the famous pastries. Check access to the tower.
- 3
13:00 · Baixa
Lunch in the Baixa
Set menus and seafood in the centre.
- 4
15:00 · Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio and Rua Augusta
Walk to the Rua Augusta Arch and the square open to the river.
- 5
16:30 · Chiado
Chiado and Carmo
Historic bookshops and the ruins of the Carmo Convent, which have a paid entry.
- 6
19:00 · Bairro Alto
São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint and dinner
Free sunset views and dinner in the Bairro Alto.
Day 2: Alfama, the castle and the viewpoints
A day with more hills. Wear comfortable shoes and start early.
- 1
09:30 · Alfama · Sé
Lisbon Cathedral
Free entry to the nave of the Romanesque cathedral.
- 2
10:30 · São Jorge Castle
São Jorge Castle
Ramparts, towers and views. Allow 1.5 hours.
- 3
13:00 · Alfama
Lunch in Alfama
Small tascas with grilled fish.
- 4
15:00 · Graça
Miradouro da Graça and Senhora do Monte
Two of the city's best free viewpoints.
- 5
17:00 · Alfama
Tram 28 or a walk
If you want to ride tram 28, do it now, avoiding the peak hours.
- 6
20:00 · Alfama
Dinner with fado
Dine at a fado house; book ahead and confirm the menu price.
Tips for planning the 2 days
- Avoid Mondays for the Jerónimos and check each museum's closing day.
- If you have a third day, Sintra is about 40 minutes by train from Rossio.
- On tram 28 watch your bag and wallet: there are pickpockets at peak hours.
- The hills are tiring: mix in the metro, lifts and funiculars.
Frequently asked questions
Is 2 days enough for Lisbon?
For the essentials, yes: Belém, the Baixa, Alfama and the castle. With three days you can add Sintra.
Which day is best for Belém?
Tuesday to Sunday, as the Jerónimos is closed on Mondays. First thing is best.
How much does 2 days in Lisbon cost?
The main paid tickets are the Jerónimos cloister and São Jorge Castle; the rest is mostly free. Confirm fees on the official sites.
Where is the best area to stay?
In the Baixa or Chiado, for easy walking and public transport.