3 Days in Lisbon, Portugal: A Perfect Solo Travel Itinerary
Trying to plan the perfect 3 days in Lisbon but feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options?
I get it! Lisbon can feel like a lot at first glance (there are so many viewpoints and hills to explore!), but with the right Lisbon itinerary, this charming capital city becomes one of the easiest and most rewarding solo travel destinations in Europe.
I’ve done this exact three day trip to Lisbon on my own, as an experienced solo female traveller, so everything in this guide comes from real, first-hand experience.
And I also know how it feels to want to see all of the best attractions in Lisbon, without burning out or rushing from attraction to attraction, never really experiencing anything.
So this itinerary is what I wish I’d had the first time I travelled to Lisbon solo.
Whether you’re dreaming of pastel sunsets over Alfama, hopping on Tram 28 before the crowds, or sipping vinho verde on a stunning river Tagus cruise, I’ve mapped it all out for you in a way that feels easy and actually doable.
Ready? Let’s plan your perfect 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal!
Disclaimer: Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. That means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, places and services I genuinely love and use on my own solo travels. Thank you for supporting my adventures so I can continue to provide free content on this blog! 💛
Is Lisbon Worth Visiting Alone?
If you’re wondering whether Lisbon is worth visiting solo, my short answer is: absolutely yes!
And no, not just because it’s pretty (although it really is!)
Lisbon is one of the few capital cities in Europe that manages to feel both energetic and relaxed at the same time. It’s big enough to keep you busy for days, but also compact enough that it never really feels overwhelming.
And trust me, that’s a dream combo as a solo female traveller!
From wandering Alfama’s cobbled, maze-like streets to witnessing a breath-taking sunset from one of the many free viewpoints (aka miradouros), Lisbon – despite being a bustling capital – has a way of slowing you down and reminding you to travel at your own pace!
Is 3 Days in Lisbon Enough?
3 days in Lisbon is just enough to fall in love with the city – and to make you want to come back for more!
Don’t get me wrong, with 3 days in Lisbon, you definitely won’t see everything.
But you will see enough to feel like you had an amazing trip and some unforgettable experiences!
In three well-planned days, you can explore the most famous neighbourhoods, visit some of the best viewpoints in the city, eat ridiculously well, and even squeeze in a dreamy day trip to explore more of Portugal, if you want.
The key is to not overpack your schedule or stress about doing it all. Prioritise a few “can’t-miss” spots, then make sure you leave space for slow mornings and spontaneous detours!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Lisbon?
The best time to visit Lisbon really depends on what you’re after from your trip, but for most solo travellers, spring and autumn are the true sweet spots.
3 days in Lisbon in spring or autumn (aka shoulder season), means you still get to enjoy warm, sunny days – just without the summer crowds, summer heat, and summer prices!
Don’t get me wrong, summer can be fun too, especially if you like things lively, energetic and (very, very!) hot. But Lisbon in July and August is extremely crowded and the heat can make all those hills feel like a workout you didn’t sign up for!
And if you’re dreaming of a cosy winter break, Lisbon’s mild climate makes 3 days in Lisbon in winter very doable, with much fewer tourists, lower prices and plenty of cosy indoor spots to check out too!
How to Get to Lisbon
Getting to Lisbon is pretty straightforward, whether you’re flying in from abroad or already travelling through Europe.
The main airport, Humberto Delgado Airport is only about 20–30 minutes from the city centre by taxi, bus or metro.
My favourite method of getting from Lisbon airport to the city centre is to hop on the metro’s red line right at the airport, which connects easily to the rest of the city.
If you’re arriving by train or bus from within Portugal or Spain, you’ll likely come into Santa Apolonia or Oriente station. Both are well-connected by metro to the rest of the city and you can usually reach your accommodation within 20–30 minutes.
So it’s all very doable, even if you’re tired after a long journey!
Where to Stay in Lisbon For 3 Days
Picking the right place to stay in Lisbon will make a big difference to your solo trip: you want somewhere safe, walkable and well-connected.
Personally, I’d avoid staying up in the steep parts of Alfama (unless you’re happy hauling luggage uphill and over cobbles). I tried this on my first solo trip to Lisbon – in July. Big regret!
So instead, look for accommodation in Baixa, Chiado or Cais do Sodre for easy access to everything (and fewer hills!)
Here are a few options I’d recommend:
Budget (€): Selina Secret Garden Lisbon
Perfect if you want community but still like a bit of calm. There’s a rooftop terrace, an outdoor swimming pool and easy access to Cais do Sodre and Bairro Alto. Plus there are dorms and private rooms available.
Mid-range (€€): Hotel Mundial
This beautiful, four star hotel in the heart of Baixa feels fancy without being stuffy. It also has great views from its panoramic terrace, friendly staff and is within easy walking distance to both key tourist spots, like Tram 28 and Lisbon Cathedral.
Luxury (€€€): The Editory Riverside Hotel
If you’re splurging, this hotel is a dream! Located right on the Tagus River, this gorgeous five star hotel has world-class amenities, spectacular views and exceptional, friendly service – all in a truly incredible, central location!
Day 1 in Lisbon: Trams, Cobbles & Views
Let’s get into the 3 days in Lisbon itinerary now! Your first day in Lisbon is all about experiencing everything that makes this capital city feel so special.
You’ll start slow, travelling through the hills on the city’s most iconic tram, then get your bearings in the old streets of Alfama, and finally end your day people-watching over a cold drink.
Sounds perfect, right?
Expect cobbles, gorgeous old streets and spectacular viewpoints that will show you exactly what Lisbon’s hype is all about!
Quick Note: I’ve put suggested timings from my own Lisbon trip throughout this guide, but they are just that – suggestions. Feel free to skip, alter, shorten, lengthen – whatever you want!
8:00am: Lisbon Cathedral (+ That Iconic Tram Shot)
Start your first day in Lisbon early with one of the most photogenic (and iconic) spots in Lisbon: Sé Cathedral, with Tram 28 turning the corner right in front of it.
At this time of morning, you’ll typically find trams that aren’t yet wrapped in ads, the streets are calm, and you can actually snap that dreamy yellow tram in front of Lisbon’s iconic gothic cathedral, without fifty tourists in the background!
Trust me, I’ve tried to replicate this shot at other times of day and it never works!
It’s also a great starting point to get your bearings in the Alfama area before the cruise ship passengers and day trippers arrive, making the streets feel overwhelming.
Katie’s Top Tip: Stand by the bus/tram stop (on the right hand side of the road as you look up at the cathedral), to get the iconic photo of the tram in front of the cathedral. You’ll have to be patient to get a tram without advertising, but it’s worth it!
8:45am: Ride Tram 28 from Martim Moniz
Now that you’ve got the iconic photo and explored a little of the area around the cathedral, it’s time to ride the full loop of around 50 minutes!
So next, hop on Tram 28 from Martim Moniz (which is about 13 minutes’ walk from the cathedral, along some seriously picturesque streets).
By riding Tram 28 this early, you’ll beat the queues and (hopefully) be able to get a seat!
Again, I’ve tried to ride at other times of day too and it’s always rammed. (Would not recommend!)
Lisbon’s most iconic tram line will take you through the city’s most beautiful neighbourhoods – Alfama, Graça, Baixa, and Estrela – which are all full of charm and some seriously cinematic views.
I would recommend you sit on the right-hand side of the tram for the best views down those famously narrow streets.
Katie’s Top Tip: If it’s busy, let one tram pass. Another one’s usually just behind it, and you’ll have a better chance of grabbing a window seat.
10:00am: Get Lost in Alfama
Once you’re off the iconic Tram 28, it’s time to explore Alfama – Lisbon’s oldest and most beautiful neighbourhood.
Alfama is a place to slow right down, so don’t worry about a map (if you feel comfortable with that).
Instead, just follow the winding lanes and see where you end up. (This is what I did for a few hours during my last trip and it ended up being the highlight!)
Peek into tiny artisan shops, admire the street art, chat to a local, stumble across a magical viewpoint, or stop for coffee when something catches your eye…
Oh, and while you’re in Alfama, be sure to try the pastel de nata from Pastelaria Santo António. It’s the perfect mid-morning snack and excuse to relax after a morning of walking. (You can thank me later!)
Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t feel pressured to “see” all of Alfama. (You never will anyway!) Instead, just wander where your feet take you for an hour or two. Getting (deliberately!) lost is all part of the magic!
11:30am: Explore St George’s Castle
From Alfama, walk up the hill to St George’s Castle for panoramic views over Lisbon.
Entry is €15 (at time of writing) and well worth every cent!
At the top, you’ll find tree-lined terraces, ancient stone walls, fascinating guided tours (included in your ticket!), an interesting museum and, of course, some of the very best views in Lisbon!
You could spend 45 minutes or two hours here, it’s completely up to you.
And there’s also café with plenty of seating, if you need a break after a full morning of sightseeing.
Katie’s Top Tip: Walk up to the castle via Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo. It’s one of the prettiest streets in the area and makes the strenuous climb feel more like a photo walk than a workout!
1pm: Long, Relaxing Lunch (Or Optional Museum Visit)
After you’ve explored the castle, head downhill for a long, leisurely lunch.
Seriously, after a full morning of exploring, you deserve it!
For something casual and local, try Pois Café. Or if you want a proper sit-down meal, Farol de Santa Luzia has lovely views and a more traditional menu.
If a few hours for lunch and relaxing feels like too much (or you just want to make the most of every minute of exploring!), you could also check out one of the Alfama museums during this free time, including:
- The Tile Museum
- The Teatro Romano Museum
- The Fado Museum
Katie’s Top Tip: Lisbon’s sun can get very intense between 1–3pm. So I would either recommend you enjoy a long lunch during this time or check out an indoor attraction like a museum or church for a few hours. If you want to stay outside and explore, you could also choose to book a Lisbon walking tour for a couple of hours, where the local guide will walk you through the streets at a comfortable pace, sharing fascinating knowledge along the way.
3:30pm: Lisbon’s Iconic Viewpoints
Once the midday heat starts to ease, it’s time to visit two of Alfama’s best miradouros, if you haven’t already! (Although even if you have, revisiting them now is a great choice as the light in the late afternoon is softer and much more magical for photos).
The viewpoints are Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia (they are located right next to each other), and they can be found just 10 minutes from where we started at Lisbon Cathedral this morning.
From Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, you’ll get spectacular views of Alfama, the Tagus River and a birds eye view of Lisbon’s terracotta rooftops.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia is particularly beautiful as it is set in a little garden, with beautiful tiles to admire. So take the time to sit for a while and admire the view!
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring a small picnic (even just a pastry and a cold drink), and enjoy your time here. These viewpoints are free, safe and beautiful places to sit for an extended time!
4:30pm: Stroll Down to Arco da Rua Augusta & Baixa
Once you’ve finished enjoying the spectacular viewpoints, make your way down to Lisbon’s elegant Baixa district.
From Alfama, it’s a gentle, 12 minute downhill walk past beautiful, tiled streets, until you reach Praca do Comercio and the grand Arco da Rua Augusta.
The Baixa neighbourhood is relatively flat, very elegant, and easy to navigate solo. It’s also home to some great shops if you want to pick up local gifts or just browse.
Here are a few great sights to add to your walk through the Baixa district:
- Arco da Rua Augusta
- Miradouro do Rio Tejo (by the River Tagus)
- Ribeira das Naus
- Pink Street
To see all of these sights takes only around 30 minutes (downhill) from Miradouro de Santa Luzia, so take your time and stop at each. The waterfront is the perfect place to relax and slow down!
Katie’s Top Tip: If your legs are tired, now’s a great time to grab a cold drink and sit on the Ribeira das Naus promenade that runs right along the river!
6:30pm: Dinner + Sunset in Bairro Alto
End your first day in Lisbon with something delicious to eat in the lively neighbourhood of Bairro Alto!
For casual dining, try the Time Out Market (yes, I know it’s touristy, but it’s also fun and full of variety!) or grab a table at restaurants like Tasca do Chico or Taberna da Rua das Flores.
Then, after dinner, let your food go down with a gentle stroll.
I would recommend walking via the Church of Saint Roch, along the beautiful streets of Bairro Alto, and up to the Sao Pedro de Alcantara miradouro for sunset.
The views over the city from the miradouro are spectacular, and you’ll find a perfect mix of both locals and travellers enjoying the last of the day!
Katie’s Top Tip: Of course, depending on the time of your visit, sunset could be before dinner. In which case, just switch the order around so you don’t miss out. All of the restaurants, sights of Bairro Alto and the miradouro are close by, so the order doesn’t matter!
Day 2 in Lisbon: Belém & a Tagus River Cruise
Day 2 of your 3 days in Lisbon is all about relaxing into the pace of the city, especially after a busy day of exploring yesterday.
Today, you’ll discover nearby Belém, admire ancient monuments, and then slow things right down with a peaceful cruise along the river, watching Lisbon from the water!
9:00am: Tram or Train to Belém
Getting to Belém is easy. You can either take the tram from Praca da Figueira (or Cais do Sodre), or hop on the Cascais line train from Cais do Sodre, which is quicker and more reliable in summer.
But either way, you’ll arrive in under 30 minutes.
Belém is slightly west of the city centre and has a very different feel to Lisbon, with wide boulevards, grand monuments and a much more relaxed atmosphere.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re going in high season (especially for 3 days in Lisbon in summer), aim to get to Belém by 10am to avoid the queues, particularly for Jerónimos Monastery.
9:30am: Tower of Belém & Monument to the Discoveries
Tower of Belém
Start by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage listed Belém Tower, located on the northern bank of the River Tagus.
The Belém Tower is a 16th-century fortification that once guarded the entrance to the city of Lisbon.
From the outside, the Belém Tower looks like a fairy-tale castle floating just off the riverbank, and it’s one of Lisbon’s most photographed (and beloved!) attractions.
You can also choose to go inside (for around €15 or free with the Lisboa Card). From the top of the tower, there is a panoramic view of the Tagus, you’ll get to witness the incredible architecture up close, and discover more about the Great Discoveries.
But honestly, in my opinion heading inside the tower is optional (especially if you’re on a budget), as I think the outside is the real showstopper here!
Monument to the Discoveries
Also, just a few minutes’ walk away, is the dramatic Monument to the Discoveries, which is a modern tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration.
You can choose to enter inside the Monument to the Discoveries, to visit the exhibition, watch a short film and climb to the top for views over the Tagus (all of this costs €10).
Or you can equally just take in the impressive monument from below (for free!)
It’s up to you!
Katie’s Top Tip: The Belém Tower is especially beautiful in the soft morning light. So the earlier you can visit, the quieter it will be and the lighting will be extra gorgeous!
11am: 2-Hour Tagus River Cruise
Next, it’s time to slow down and see Lisbon from the water (which, in my opinion, is one of the best and most relaxing ways to see the city!)
This late morning, small group sailboat cruise leaves directly from Belém harbour, just a short walk from Belém tower. The full trip lasts about two hours and includes a welcome drink plus some light snacks!
The views from the River Tagus are truly unbeatable – you’ll sail beneath the 25 de Abril Bridge, pass the Belém Tower, and see the iconic Lisbon skyline from a whole new angle!
And because it’s a small sailboat (not a huge tourist boat), it feels more intimate, calm and very solo travel friendly. The skippers are kind and helpful, but also not overbearing if you just want to relax and enjoy the morning.
It’s a perfect way to spend half a day in Lisbon!
Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t forget sunglasses and a light layer as the breeze can be fresh, even in summer!
1:30pm – Lunch in Belém
Once you’re back on dry land and feeling relaxed after your boat trip, head to one of Belém’s best lunch spots.
If you’re wanting something light and local, check out Darwin’s Café (which is riverside with lovely views and a very casual vibe).
Or, Este Oeste inside the Centro Cultural de Belém is super stylish and a bit more fancy.
And yes, this is also absolutely the time for a pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém!
Yes, I know it’s very popular. And yes, the queue will look wild. But I promise it moves quickly and trust me, it’s worth it! The pastel de nata are all served fresh from the oven here. They are flaky, creamy and still warm. Nothing else in Portugal compares!
3:30pm – Jerónimos Monastery
Next, head to the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s just as stunning inside as it is out. (This one is well worth visiting inside and outside, no question!)
Its intricate Gothic Manueline architecture was paid for by a tax on the profits of the yearly Portuguese India Armadas, and it’s one of the most peaceful, breath-taking places to visit in Lisbon.
You could spend anywhere from one hour to a couple of hours here, depending on how much you want to explore.
Tickets can be purchased independently, or you can buy the Lisboa Card if you plan to enter multiple monuments and attractions around Lisbon.
The Jerónimos Monastery is one of the few places in Lisbon where visiting late in the day actually works in your favour. This top attraction gets very busy mid-morning. but by around 3/4pm, it starts to calm down again, so you can really enjoy it and take your time.
The highlights of the Jerónimos Monastery are:
- Admire the external architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery
- Empire Square Garden
- The Church of Santa Maria
- The Jerónimos Monastery Clositer
Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t forget to bring headphones if you want to listen to the self-guided audio tour!
5:30pm – Return to the City
From Belém, make your way back to central Lisbon by tram or train.
Now you’ll have some free time before dinner to rest by the River Tagus or head back to your hotel for a short recharge, if you want.
Alternatively, you could revisit any of your favourite places from day one of this Lisbon itinerary, visit any places you missed during yesterday’s busy day of sightseeing, or even visit a few bonus spots not on this Lisbon itinerary. These are:
- Rossio Square
- Miradouro de Santa Catarina
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- The Santa Justa Lift
- Visit more of Lisbon’s museums
7:00pm: Dinner & Fado in Bairro Alto
For dinner, head back to Bairro Alto, a neighbourhood famous for its food, live Fado music, and atmospheric old streets.
If you’re in the mood for live music, this is a lovely place to experience Fado, Portugal’s beautiful traditional music, while enjoying some delicious traditional food!
This top-rated Fado experience is perfect for solo travellers: you’ll join a small group, have a local guide talk you through the fascinating history of fado, then sit down to enjoy a 1.5-hour live performance.
Dinner is also included in this experience, and it’s not a tourist trap menu either!
You’ll get to enjoy a proper Portuguese meal (with a vegan/vegetarian option available too), a drink of your choice (wine, beer, soft drinks), and a shot of ginjinha, which is a traditional cherry liquor.
The atmosphere is candlelit and cosy, the performers are incredible and yes, it’s 100% okay to come as a solo traveller. You’ll be able to enjoy the company of other travellers if you wish, but you can equally just sit back and enjoy the music and good food. It’s up to you!
Katie’s Top Tip: Book your Fado experience in advance, as it is very popular and will sell out, particularly during the peak summer season.
Day 3 in Lisbon: Best Day Trips From Lisbon, Portugal
So it’s your final full day in Lisbon, and the choice is yours. Do you want to:
- Explore colourful, mountain palaces in Sintra?
- Stay in Lisbon, revisit your trip highlights and explore a slower, more local side of the city?
- Or take a more underrated day trip to see more of beautiful Portugal?
We’ll walk through all of those options right now, so whether you’re still feeling full of energy or a little tired from the busy days of sightseeing, there’s a perfect way for you to close out your 3 days in Lisbon!
Option 1: A Classic Lisbon Day Trip to Sintra
9:00am – Depart Lisbon
To make the most of your day trip to Sintra, aim to catch an early train to Sintra from Rossio Station. (Or take a guided tour like this small-group, full day tour that will take care of all the logistics for you!)
If you are making the journey by yourself, the train takes about 40 minutes from Rossio Station, and runs frequently (every 20–30 mins).
Once in Sintra, you will then need to take the tourist shuttle bus from the station to reach Pena Palace.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you are visiting with public transport, pre-book your Pena Palace ticket for a timed slot (ideally before 11am), so you can walk straight in and skip the crazy queues later on.
10:00am – Pena Palace + Park
Pena Palace is the Sintra showstopper that you will see all over Pinterest, TikTok and Instagram: a colourful palace perched high in the clouds, surrounded by natural gardens, quiet forest paths and panoramic views.
And yes, that does mean it’s very touristy and gets very crowded. But there is a very good reason everyone comes here: it is truly stunning!
The inside and terraces of Pena Palace are stunning, with intricate tilework and colourful facades making it incredibly photogenic and very interesting to explore, especially with a guide. So it is well worth a visit!
But, in my opinion, it’s the outside that steals the show, so don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time away from the palace and its Insta-famous terraces, wandering the quiet (often secret feeling!), forest paths along secret lakes and up to hidden viewpoints.
In particular, there is a viewpoint called Cruz Alta. It is tucked deep in the park and, in my opinion, offers the best panoramic view of Pena Palace.
The gardens were definitely my favourite part of my visit and felt incredibly peaceful, despite visiting at peak time!
Katie’s Top Tip: I would really recommend taking this small group guided tour for a stress-free day (and so you don’t miss any of the best spots!) This tour is led by a passionate and lovely local guide, and includes a guided walk of the stunning gardens (and that incredible viewpoint!), plus entry and a guided tour in Pena Palace, free time in Sintra, a visit to Cabo da Roca, and time to explore nearby Cascais.
1:00pm: Lunch in Sintra
After the palace, catch the tourist bus back into Sintra’s historic centre (or if you’re taking the small-group guided tour, you’ll visit Sintra with your guide).
The streets of Sintra will be busy but are still postcard-pretty, lined with gift shops, bakeries and cafés. You can grab lunch somewhere like Tascantiga or Cantinho Gourmet.
And don’t leave without trying a travesseiro de sintra (Sintra’s signature almond and egg cream pastry), at Piriquita, a bakery that’s been perfecting them since World War 2!
Katie’s Top Tip: In Sintra, be sure to stop by the National Palace of Sintra and explore the small historical centre on foot. Even with a guided tour, you have plenty of time to explore and grab lunch!
2pm: More Palaces (Optional)
After lunch is where it gets a bit more tricky if you’re exploring on your own, as there are limited places you can get to from Sintra with public transport.
You could choose to visit the nearby Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle) for views from ancient stone walls.
Or if you prefer more gardens, Quinta da Regaleira is a 15 minute walk from the town centre.
2pm: Cabo Da Roca & Cascais (Optional)
If you’re taking the guided tour, your afternoon is a lot easier, with visits to nearby Cabo Da Roca and beautiful Cascais.
Cabo Da Roca is a short photo stop with your guide enroute to Cascais, with a lighthouse and spectacular views out to sea. (Although beware, it is often very windy here – even in summer!)
But Cascais is the true gem of the afternoon: a little coastal town with golden beaches, quaint streets and just the right amount of glamour! You can spend your time sunbathing, exploring the town or walking the coastal path to the spectacular Boca do Inferno.
6pm: Back to Lisbon
If you did the Sintra day trip alone, you may be back in Lisbon earlier than 6pm. But if you took the tour, this is the estimated arrival time.
It’s been a busy 3 days in Lisbon, so when you get back, grab a relaxed dinner near your accommodation. For example I grabbed a takeaway supermarket picnic to eat by the river at Ribeira das Naus, for my last Lisbon sunset! It was the perfect end to my trip!
Option 2: A Slower Lisbon Day
If you don’t have the energy for a Lisbon day trip (or simply want to make the most of your short time in the city itself), you could use your final day in Lisbon to:
- Revisit your highlights from the past two days
- Or spread out the stops from the past two days, if you prefer a slower pace
- Visit places not included in this Lisbon itinerary, like Rossio Square, Miradouro de Santa Catarina, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, the Santa Justa Lift, or more of Lisbon’s museums
- Take a guided walking tour to get to know Lisbon from a local perspective and visit hidden spots in the city that you would otherwise miss
- Book a small group, foodie walking tour to eat your way through Portugal’s most delicious highlights
- Enjoy a guided, quirky tuk-tuk tour of Lisbon city centre, exploring the ancient neighbourhoods of Alfama and Mouraria
- Join a half-day electric bike tour of Lisbon’s best sights and viewpoints, to see the best of Lisbon’s seven hills with ease
Option 3: Alternative Lisbon Day Trip Ideas
If Sintra sounds a bit too busy for you (or if you’ve already been before), there are plenty of other incredible day trips from Lisbon that are less crowded, more relaxed and just as rewarding:
Lisbon Day Trip to Evora
Evora is a beautifully preserved Roman town in Portugal’s Alentejo region, filled with whitewashed houses, Roman ruins and a chapel made entirely of bones. (Yes, really!) A day trip to Evora is perfect if you’re after something slower paced after a busy few days of sightseeing.
You can get to Evora from Lisbon easily in around 1.5 hours by car, bus, train, group guided tour or private guided tour.
Lisbon Day Trip to Arrabida Natural Park
Arrabida Natural Park is a true Portugal hidden gem and is perfect for nature lovers! You’ll find unreal turquoise waters, hidden beaches perfect for sunbathing, and forested walking paths to explore – all just an hour south of the capital!
To get from Lisbon to Arrabida Natural Park, you’ll need a car, a group guided tour or a private guided tour.
Lisbon Day Trip to Obidos
Obidos is a tiny walled town with a magnificent castle, cobbled streets, cherry liqueur, and a medieval vibe that feels like it is straight out of a storybook.
You can get to Obidos from Lisbon by car. But I would recommend taking either a small group group guided tour or private guided tour, as you then get to combine Obidos with other incredible stops like the seaside town of Nazare, the moving pilgrimage sight of Fatima, and the Monastery of Batalha.
Lisbon Day Trip to Coimbra
Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and a buzzing, student energy, this historic riverside city has a totally different vibe to Lisbon. Coimbra is perfect to explore if you want to explore a different, more underrated city in Portugal.
You can easily get to Coimbra from Lisbon by car, bus, train, group guided tour or private guided tour.
Or you could also use Coimbra as a half-day stopover, to break up the journey between Lisbon and Porto, if you’re heading north next.
Katie’s Top Tip: You can read all about these Lisbon day trips (and more!) in my full guide to the best day trips from Lisbon, Portugal. This blog post includes detailed reccs for things to do, a breakdown of all of the different ways to get to each place from Lisbon, and my solo travel tips and tricks to truly make the most of each Lisbon day trip!
Lisbon FAQs
How to Get Around Lisbon
Getting around Lisbon is very easy once you get the hang of it.
The city has a good public transport system made up of metro lines, trams, buses and even funiculars and lifts.
The metro is often the quickest way to get across larger distances of the city, but if you’re exploring central areas like Alfama, Bairro Alto or Baixa, you’ll mostly be walking.
You can buy a Viva Viagem card from metro stations (it costs €0.50), and top it up for use on all public transport.
Taxis in Lisbon also work well and are relatively affordable, especially at night if you’re not comfortable walking.
Is Lisbon Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Yes! Overall, Lisbon is considered one of the safest capital cities in Europe for solo female travellers.
Street harassment is very rare, violent crime is low, and you’ll find locals are generally kind, respectful and helpful.
Like any major city, petty theft, pickpocketing and minor tourist scams are the most common issues, but it’s easy to avoid with a few smart travel safety habits.
Personally, I’ve explored Lisbon alone during the day and at night, and never felt unsafe. The city is well-lit, there are always people around, and the vibe stays lively well into the night. But if you are out after dark, I would always recommend sticking to well-known routes or calling a taxi if you’re unsure.
You can read my full Lisbon safety guide here if you want all the details, tips and personal stories from my trips!
Lisbon Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss
Once you’ve ticked off the big sights, Lisbon is full of hidden spots that feel almost secret!
Jardim do Torel is a peaceful little park with a more local vibe and incredible views across the hills. It’s not a main feature in the guidebooks so hardly any tourists find it.
Another hidden gem in Lisbon is Museu Nacional do Azulejo, Lisbon’s stunning tile museum, housed in a quiet convent. Even if you’re not into museums, the cloisters and tile art are well worth a visit!
And if you’re after a proper local food experience, head to Campo de Ourique Market instead of Time Out.
Free Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal
Your trip to Lisbon doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some of its best experiences are completely free, including:
- Wander the Alfama district
- Miradouro de Portas do Sol
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Miradouro de Santa Catarina
- Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
- The iconic view of Tram 28 in front of Lisbon Cathedral
- Stroll along Ribeira das Naus
Lisbon or Porto: Which is Better for Solo Travel?
Both cities are fantastic for solo travellers, but they offer different experiences.
Lisbon is bigger, sunnier (because it’s further south), and more vibrant, with more sights to see and a faster pace of life.
On the other hand, Porto is smaller, more compact and has a slower vibe.
But if it’s your first time travelling solo in Portugal (and you can only pick one city!), I’d go with Lisbon.
What to Do in Lisbon for 3 Days (Best 3 Day Itinerary Lisbon)
If you’re short on time, here’s what your 3 days in Lisbon could look like:
Day 1: Alfama, Tram 28, St George’s Castle + Lisbon’s iconic miradouros
Day 2: Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, a Tagus River cruise + Fado in Bairro Alto
Day 3: An iconic or underrated Lisbon day trip: Pena Palace and Sintra, Evora, Arrabida Natural Park, Obidos or Coimbra.
3 Days in Lisbon in Summer
Summer in Lisbon is hot, bright and full of energy. Expect long days, buzzing nightlife and loads of outdoor events to pick and choose from!
But Lisbon’s summers also come with (often overwhelming!) crowds and heat, so early starts for sightseeing and then heading for more relaxed attractions in the afternoon is the way to go.
Do your sightseeing early (for example ride Tram 28 and explore the Alfama district before 10am if you can). Then, in the afternoon, swap museums for shady miradouros, Tagus River boat trips, or relaxing along Ribeira das Naus.
3 Days in Lisbon in Spring
Spring might just be Lisbon’s most perfect season. (And it’s my personal favourite too!)
It’s warm enough for summery clothes, but cool enough to walk all day – plus there are far fewer crowds!
Spring is the ideal season to follow this full Lisbon 3 day itinerary without any heat-related schedule changes.
3 Days in Lisbon in Autumn
The weather is still warm in autumn (especially in September and October), but the summer crowds start to ease off.
Autumn in Lisbon is the perfect season for slower, quieter travel moments too, if that’s your vibe!
Alfama and Graca are stunning in the softer Autumn light, and rooftop bars and nightlife feel a lot more relaxed than they do in peak season. It’s also a great season for daytrips!
3 Days in Lisbon in Winter
Don’t skip Lisbon just because it’s winter.
It’s actually one of the mildest capitals in Europe, and it still gets more sun than most places!
December to February can feel crisp and fresh (which is perfect for sightseeing across Lisbon’s steep hills!), but you’ll never truly feel freezing.
Final Thoughts: How to Spend 3 Days in Lisbon, Portugal
3 days in Lisbon is just enough to fall in love with the city, but also not quite enough to see it all, which is part of the charm!
You’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime, a full camera roll, and at least one spot or missed day trip you’re already planning to come back to.
Whether you spent your time in Lisbon chasing sunsets from the iconic (and free!) miradouros, getting lost in Alfama’s winding lanes, or sipping vinho verde by the river, Lisbon is a beautiful city to explore.
And honestly? That’s what I loved most about it. It’s a city that doesn’t rush you, despite being a bustling capital. Instead, you can take your time and follow where your feet lead!
So, now that you’ve got your perfect Lisbon itinerary, what part are you most excited for?
Read More About Travel in Portugal:
- 3 Days in Lisbon, Portugal: A Perfect Solo Travel Itinerary
- 15 Things to Know Before Travelling to Portugal in 2025
- Is Portugal Safe For Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
- 11 Best Places to Visit in Portugal for First-Timers, Ranked
