There’s so much to love about Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city – from its warm weather, rich cultural heritage, colorful history, incredible architecture and some of the most welcoming locals you will ever meet. Set on the picturesque Tagus River, Lisbon has plenty to offer to anyone who makes their way into the city. But what if you only had one day to explore this beautiful destination?
While it isn’t exactly the ideal trip, it is possible to spend just 24 hours in Lisbon and still see some of the best that the city has to offer. Since you only have a day to explore, you’ll want to make thorough plans and try to maximize your time in the city with the help of the following tips:
- Be free from restraints and move around with ease by stowing away your bags and other items at a Lisbon luggage storage facility.
- Consider buying a Lisboa Card that’s good for 24 hours. This pass allows for unlimited use of public transport as well as free entrance to some of the city’s top attractions, most of which are found in this guide. The 24-hour Lisboa Card costs €20 and can be booked here.
- While cycling may seem like an attractive way to get around the city, it’s not ideal for a 24-hour trip.
- Consider joining one of the many free walking tours offered in the city, such as the world-famous Sandeman’s New Europe tour (book here).
Once you’re settled, check out this handy guide to spending a full day in Lisbon.
1. MORNING
The first thing you’ll want to do is to catch the sunrise at the Praca do Comercio, which is one of Lisbon’s most popular squares. As a top attraction in the city, the square is busy and is always filled with both locals and tourists. During the wee hours of the morning, however, the area is extremely calm and is among the best spots in Lisbon to greet the rising sun.
Head over to the lively Chiado district, which is filled with numerous cafés where you can grab a bite to eat. While you’ll be spoiled for choice in the area, make your way to the renowned Café a Brasileria, which rose to prominence as the hangout spot of acclaimed Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa. You can even check out his usual table, which is no longer being used to honor his memory, while eating your breakfast and drinking espresso.
After you finish your breakfast, head down to Rua Augusta, the city’s main pedestrian street, and make your way to the Triumph Arc, which you can climb to get a panoramic view of Lisbon. Continue walking around the downtown and see the Convento de Carmo, the site of the church that was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake.
Next thing to do is to ride the historic Tram 28, which will take you to the Alfama neighborhood. A must-see in the district is the Castelo de S. Jorge, one of Lisbon’s most famous tourist attractions that offer an incredible view of the river and the entire city of Lisbon. Once you’re done exploring the castle, head over to Miradouro de Santa Luzia, which offers another picturesque view of the city from its rooftop.
As you make your way back to the downtown Lisbon, stop by Sé (Lisbon Cathedral) and admire the most famous church in the Portuguese capital and its symbol of the Christian Reconquest. Refuel and have a delicious lunch at the Time Out Market, a food hall that consists of multiple stalls serving everything from street food to fine dining menus.
2. AFTERNOON
After having lunch, it’s time to continue on with your day by visiting the Belém district and go on a journey through the city’s Golden Age of Discoveries. The historic area is filled with some of Lisbon’s most popular and recognizable landmarks and monuments. Head over to the iconic Torre de Belém, which once served as a defense tower for the city and is one of the few remaining Manueline-style architecture in the city. Climb up the tower to see the fantastic view of the open water.
A few steps away from the Belém Tower is the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries), which was built to honor the brave explorers and sailors who set out on expeditions to discover the world. Erected in 1940, the monument features different personalities such as Infante Dom Henrique (Henry the Navigator), who was instrumental in the Portuguese overseas expansion.
Another important landmark in the district of Belém, and one that you should definitely visit, is Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery), a religious building that was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Constructed in 1501, the monastery was created to celebrate the return of Vasco de Gama from his expedition to India.
One of the most unique and interesting ways to explore the Belém district is by booking a tuktuk tour of the area. Not only does it save you time and effort, you also a guide to give you some insight into the history of Belém. Before you head back to the city center, don’t forget to eat some Portugal’s beloved custard tarts, the pastel de nata, at the iconic Pasteis de Belém.
3. EVENING
After a full day of exploring some of Lisbon’s most prominent attractions, the best thing to do would be to enjoy a lovely dinner and unwind. The Bairro Alto district is good for both; the area has a broad selection of restaurants where you can sample some authentic Portuguese favor and other international flavors. To immerse yourself in the city’s culture, eat at a fado restaurant, where you get to enjoy local cuisine while admiring the unique Portugal genre of music. One of the most frequented fado restaurants in the Bairro Alto area is A Tasca do Chico.
If you’re still up for a night of partying after dinner, you don’t need to go too far as Bairro Alto is also the city’s ultimate nightlife destination. If you’re looking for something low-key, make your way to Loucos e Sonhadores. You can also enjoy drinks with a view in some of the famous rooftop bars in the area, such as Insolito and Park. For an even livelier time, go to the nearby Cais do Sodre district and head over to Pink Street, the city’s former red light district that is now a buzzing area filled with late-night clubs and bars.
Sources:
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