Portugal · Europe
Lisbon
Sun-washed hills, tram bells and pastéis de nata
Trip length
3–4 days
Best time
March–May and September–October
Mid-range budget
€110–170 / day
Overview
Lisbon layers seven hills with pastel façades, azulejo tiles and a river that glows gold at sunset. It is one of Europe's most affordable capitals, rewarding slow wandering through Alfama's alleys, history in Belém, and long dinners of grilled sardines and vinho verde. Trams rattle up impossibly steep lanes, miradouros (viewpoints) frame the Tagus, and a strong café culture makes it easy to slow down.
Where to stay & explore
Alfama
The oldest quarter — tangled lanes, fado houses and washing strung between tiled walls. Best for atmosphere and sunset viewpoints.
Baixa & Chiado
Grand squares and elegant shopping streets rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. Central and walkable — a smart base.
Belém
Riverside monuments, the original pastéis de Belém and the age-of-discovery landmarks, a short tram ride west.
Bairro Alto & Príncipe Real
Sleepy by day, buzzing by night — bars, boutiques and the city's best rooftop drinks.
Top attractions
- Ride Tram 28 through Alfama and Graça
- Sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Jerónimos Monastery and the original pastéis de Belém
- Day trip to the palaces of Sintra
- Time Out Market for a tasting tour of Portuguese food
Sample itinerary
Old Lisbon
Alfama alleys, Sé Cathedral, São Jorge Castle views, and a fado dinner in a tiny tavern.
Belém & the river
Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, custard tarts, then MAAT and a riverside sunset.
Sintra escape
Train to Sintra for Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira's gardens; back for drinks in Bairro Alto.
Budget guide
Budget
€55–80 / day
Hostels, street food, public transport
Mid-range
€110–170 / day
Boutique stays, restaurants, some tours
Luxury
€280+ / day
Top hotels, fine dining, private guides
Approximate spend per person, per day, excluding flights.
Practical travel tips
- 1Buy a rechargeable Viva Viagem card for trams, metro and the Cascais/Sintra trains.
- 2Wear grippy shoes — the calçada (mosaic pavement) is beautiful but slippery on the hills.
- 3Book Sintra's Pena Palace tickets online; queues on site can swallow an hour.
- 4Lunch is the best-value meal — many restaurants run a prato do dia (dish of the day).
Plan your own Lisbon trip
Turn this guide into a personalised 3–4 days itinerary — with hotels, restaurants and hidden gems matched to your exact budget, in seconds.