Lisbon isn’t a city you rush — but if you’ve only got 48 hours, don’t worry. You can still soak up the soul of Portugal’s capital with a well-paced mix of local eats, iconic views, and slow rides through sunlit streets. Here’s how to experience the best of Lisbon in just two days — no tourist traps, no stress. Here’s where to stay if you want the same vibe.
Day 1: History, Hills, and Local Flavor
Morning – Alfama Wander & Local Breakfast
Start your day in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district. Get lost in its maze of steep, cobbled alleys lined with tiled houses, laundry flapping, and hidden viewpoints. Grab breakfast at a local pastelaria — a pastel de nata with bica (Portuguese espresso) is a must.
Don’t Miss: Miradouro de Santa Luzia for morning light over the rooftops.
Midday – Lunch at a Tasca & Tile Hunting
Head down toward Baixa and pop into a traditional tasca — simple taverns serving home-style Portuguese food. Try grilled sardines or a daily prato do dia.
After lunch, explore tile shops and azulejo-covered facades in Mouraria. You’ll find stories on walls here, not in museums.
Tip: Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) if you love tilework.
Afternoon – Ride Tram 28 Like a Local
Yes, it’s famous — but the key is when and where. Our full Lisbon transport guide covers the best ways to ride like a local. Catch Tram 28 mid-route (not at Martim Moniz) to avoid the tourist rush. Sit by a window, hang on tight, and ride through Graca, Alfama, and Estrela like a local.
Skip the line: Hop on around Campo Ourique or Praça Luís de Camões.
Evening – Sunset at a Miradouro + Dinner in Bairro Alto
Climb to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or São Pedro de Alcântara for sunset. Locals gather here with wine and music — you should too.
Then descend into Bairro Alto for dinner. Look for a no-frills place with paper tablecloths, grilled octopus, or arroz de pato (duck rice).
Day 2: Markets, Riverside, and Hidden Corners
Morning – Mercado da Ribeira & Coffee by the River
Start at Mercado da Ribeira (aka Time Out Market). Yes, it’s curated, but there’s still a buzz of local vendors in the mornings. Grab a pastry or fresh juice.
Then walk toward the Cais do Sodré riverfront for a coffee at Quiosque Ribeira das Naus — locals love this sunny promenade.
Midday – Belém by Tram or Bike
Head west to Belém — home of monuments, museums, and the original Pastéis de Belém. The tram ride along the river is scenic, or rent a bike for the flat path.
Visit Jerónimos Monastery, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and the MAAT museum if time allows.
Snack Alert: Don’t skip the pastel de Belém — it’s worth the hype.
Afternoon – LX Factory & Creative Lisbon
End your trip in LX Factory, an old industrial complex turned creative village. Browse indie bookstores, grab a ginjinha, or chill with locals on a rooftop bar.
Final tip: Get a little lost, talk to locals, and let Lisbon show you its real soul. Here are 5 quiet, authentic places to do exactly that.🌿🧭
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