What to do in a day in Lisbon?

Written by Guillaume Ouvrard

Published on February 27, 2024, modified on May 14, 2024

Arrival by Bus in Lisbon from Hendaye

Lisbon, the sunny capital of Portugal, is accessible by bus from Hendaye, the last French city before crossing the Spanish border. Direct buses connect the two cities daily. Expect between 15 and 16 hours of travel time, and you can part of the journey overnight to optimize your stay! The bus station is located near the Lisbon Zoo. You can then take the metro to directly reach the tourist districts of the city center. A good tip upon arrival: opt for the Lisboa Card, which includes public transportation, including the metro and Lisbon's iconic yellow trams; as well as entries and discounts to many tourist attractions. Practical and cost-effective!

Option 1: Historic districts of Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama

Lisbon, in eco-friendly mode

A first visit to Lisbon can be done on foot, but beware, it's hilly! It's no coincidence that Lisbon is nicknamed "the city of seven hills." So you either need strong legs or rely on the public transportation network, which serves the various neighborhoods very well. Not to be missed is a journey through Lisbon's historic neighborhoods aboard the iconic yellow tram No. 28. It's a unique way to discover the city in this timeless mode of transport. Cycling enthusiasts can pedal on the pleasant bike paths along the banks of the Tagus River and on the route connecting the city center to the Belém district. Many bike rental shops also offer city bike tours.

Tramway jaune n°28

Discovering Lisbon's historical and cultural heritage

In the morning, start your discovery of Lisbon by visiting São Jorge Castle. A historic fortress overlooking the city that offers a superb panorama of the Tagus River and the Vasco de Gama Bridge. Many souvenir shops and small restaurants are located nearby. For a "made in Lisboa" gift, we recommend visiting Conserveira de Lisboa. Where there are heights, there are viewpoints. In Lisbon, they are called Miradouros, and there are many of them. We suggest visiting Santa Luzia or Sao Pedro de Alcantara, our favorite. In the summer, the atmosphere is lively with music and stands where you can taste delicious grilled sardines on the go, for just a few euros. For lunch, head to the Time Out Market: you'll find the best Portuguese specialties there, from the essential Bacalhau to cod bagels, and all at a good price. Finish your meal with a Pasteis de Nata from Manteigaria. We love the cheap prices and the very convivial canteen atmosphere. In the afternoon, continue your discovery of Lisbon's historic neighborhoods, including the Santa Justa Elevator, an architectural treasure in wrought iron that allows you to move from one neighborhood to another without getting tired. The elevator connects the Baixa district to the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts. Finally, end your day by strolling through the picturesque alleys of the Alfama district, punctuated by the sound of Fado and revelers gathering in Ginja bars...

Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Option 2: Belém District

A UNESCO-listed neighborhood

Another neighborhood in Lisbon requires at least a day: the Belém district. To do this, hop on tram No. 15 at Praça do Comércio. You'll arrive in a few minutes directly in front of one of the city's jewels: the Jerónimos Monastery. A masterpiece of Manueline architecture, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interior is as sumptuous as the exterior. Keep an eye out for the hidden carved details everywhere and don't miss the superb cloister, which is the highlight of the visit.

Tasting the traditional Pasteis de Nata

Just before visiting the monastery, we suggest arriving early to have time to make a gourmet stop at the "Pasteis de Belém" café. A true Lisbon institution, where you can enjoy these delicious soft custard tarts sprinkled with cinnamon. The best in the city, they say! The recipe? It's a well-kept secret... No reservation, you have to arrive at opening time to avoid the quickly forming queue at the café entrance.

Pasteis de Nata

Climbing Belém Tower

You can then go to another landmark monument in the neighborhood: Belém Tower, also classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A true postcard of Lisbon, Belém Tower impresses with its dimensions, height, and Manueline style, typical of Portugal. You can simply admire it from afar or buy a ticket to go to the top of the tower. Whether for the monastery or the tower, it is possible to book tickets that combine both visits. Advance reservation of the time slot is highly recommended. End your day in Belém by strolling along the Tagus River. If you have time left, you can visit the unusual Carriages Museum or the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Lisbon.