Two days in Lisbon with the Lisboa Card
A tested route through Lisbon's highlights, stop by stop, with times and transport tips. Here is how to make the most of two days.
Ideal with the 48h Lisboa Card: buy now
This route covers the main sights, the best districts and a few quieter corners. All the attractions mentioned are free or discounted with the Lisboa Card, and all the transport legs are included. Timings are a guide. Adjust them to your own pace.
Belem, the centre and Alfama
Activating the card, the big highlights, an evening in the old town
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
Start in Belem with the masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Arrive right at opening at 9.30am, as the monastery gets very busy around midday. Allow about 60 to 90 minutes. With your first journey on public transport you have activated your Lisboa Card, and the 48-hour clock starts now. Reserve online in advance (see the practical notes below).
Travelling without a Lisboa Card? You can book the Mosteiro and the Torre in advance as a Belém bundle directly with Tiqets (more on the reservation page).
Museu Nacional dos Coches
The world's largest collection of historic carriages, in a modern museum building right next door. Less crowded than the monastery and visually striking. Allow about 45 to 60 minutes.
Torre de Belem
Lisbon's landmark stands right on the banks of the Tagus and is within walking distance of the monastery. This 16th-century Manueline defensive tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry is free with the Lisboa Card, but you must reserve online in advance (see the practical notes below).
Travelling without the card? Secure the Torre and the monastery as a Belém bundle in advance with Tiqets (more on the reservation page).
Praca do Comercio and Baixa
The imposing waterfront square is the gateway to the city centre. Stroll along Rua Augusta and climb to the viewing terrace of the triumphal arch. The view over the Baixa and the Tagus is worth it. The Elevador de Santa Justa is also nearby, but it is currently out of service.
Castelo de Sao Jorge
The Moorish castle sits above the old town and offers the best panorama over Lisbon. Allow at least an hour for the viewpoints, the archaeological site and a walk around the castle grounds and the gardens nearby.
Exploring Alfama
Narrow lanes lead down from the Castelo through Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district. Let yourself wander, you do not need a fixed plan here. Miradouros (viewpoints) such as the Miradouro de Santa Luzia and the Miradouro das Portas do Sol are on the way and have fantastic views.
Panteao Nacional
The National Pantheon on the edge of Alfama rewards you with one of the best rooftop terraces in Lisbon. From here you can see the Tagus, the Alfama rooftops and across to Cacilhas. Allow about 30 minutes. The Panteão closes at 6pm in summer and already at 5pm in winter.
Chiado, museums and the Tagus waterfront
Culture, creative Lisbon and the last hours with the card
Museu do Chiado
The national museum of contemporary art shows Portuguese art from Romanticism to modernism, in the heart of Chiado. Arrive at opening at 10am, when it is quiet. Allow about 60 minutes. The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is currently closed for building work.
Chiado and Principe Real
The elegant Chiado district around Rua Garrett is Lisbon's cultural centre, with bookshops, cafes and small galleries. From here a pleasant walk uphill leads to Principe Real, with its shady garden and the botanical garden of the University of Lisbon.
Parque das Nacoes
The former Expo site on the eastern riverbank is the modern face of Lisbon. The architecture around Oriente station (designed by Santiago Calatrava) is worth seeing in itself. Along the promenade you will find parks, sculptures and a cable car with river views.
Right here you will also find the Oceanario de Lisboa, one of the best-known aquariums in Europe. It is not free with the Lisboa Card, but you get 15% off.
Time Out Market and Cais do Sodre
The Time Out Market in the Mercado da Ribeira market hall brings Lisbon's best chefs together under one roof. Ideal for a late lunch or a snack. Afterwards, a walk along the Tagus waterfront is a good idea.
Ferry to Cacilhas for sunset
A perfect finish: the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas takes only 10 minutes and gives the best view of the Lisbon skyline. On the south bank, you will find restaurants with terraces and panoramic views right by the pier. Note: the ferry is not included in the Lisboa Card. A ticket costs €1.60 per journey (Viva Viagem card available from the machine).
Practical notes for this route
Step-by-step guide
Which Lisboa Card suits you?
For this 2-day route, the 48h Lisboa Card is the best choice. If you only have one day in Lisbon, the 24h card is enough. If you also plan a day trip to Sintra, the 72h version pays off. You will find all the details and the booking on our home page.
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