Weekend in Lisbon: What to Do in 3 Days – 10 Must-See Attractions

Lisbon is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable European capitals to visit. With its sunny weather, close proximity to the ocean, famous pastéis de nata, and warm atmosphere, the city offers the perfect setting for a relaxing and refreshing long weekend.

In this article, I’m sharing all the practical information you need to plan your trip, along with a Top 10 of the must-see attractions in Lisbon. Whether you’re into culture, food, or simply looking for beautiful views, you’ll find everything you shouldn’t miss.

So, ready to explore Lisbon? Here are the 10 must-see spots:

Travel Tips for Visiting Lisbon

 

When to Visit Lisbon?

Lisbon enjoys a pleasant climate all year round. The best time to visit is from April to October. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to travel in April, May, or October.

 

How to Get to Lisbon?

By plane: Lisbon is easily accessible from most major French and European cities. In France, the airports offering the best fares are Paris, Toulouse, Nantes, Bordeaux, and Marseille (thanks to low-cost airlines).
Check a flight comparison website to find the best deals.

By train unfortunately, traveling to Lisbon by train from France is still quite complicated.

Transfers from the Airport:
Metro: The red line takes you directly to the city center in about 25 minutes. A ticket costs around €2.
Bus: Lines 744, 722, 705, and 783 connect the airport to central Lisbon for about €2.15 (ticket must be purchased in advance).
Keep in mind these are local buses, so the journey can be longer and less comfortable.

Where to Stay in Lisbon?

Like in any major European city, choosing the right neighborhood (and even the right street) is important. Some areas can feel less safe at night.

Neighborhoods I recommend:
• Baixa: Perfect for a first visit, central and lively
• Avenida da Liberdade: Elegant, calm, and safe
• Alfama: Authentic and full of charm (be prepared for steep streets!)

chateau

1- Admire São Jorge Castle at Sunset

Located on the highest hill in Lisbon’s historic center, São Jorge Castle offers one of the most stunning views over the city and the Tagus estuary.

The castle alone tells a large part of Portugal’s history. Built by the Visigoths in the 5th century, later expanded by the Moors, it reached its golden age between the 13th and 16th centuries, when it served as a royal residence. Restored in 1938, it now offers a true journey back in time.

We chose to visit at the end of the day, and it was a great decision. After wandering through the gardens, we admired the city from the ramparts and its eighteen towers.

A must-see during your stay!

Practical Information

Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (until 9:00 PM from March to October)
Closed on May 1st, Christmas (Dec 24–25), and New Year (Dec 31–Jan 1)

Prices:
Adult: €15
Child / 65+: €7.50
It’s recommended to book your visit on the official website

Adresse : Castelo de S. Jorge

tramway

2- Explore Lisbon aboard the iconic Tram 28

It’s impossible to talk about Lisbon without mentioning its famous yellow trams.

True symbols of the city, these fully restored vintage trams make it easy to get around while enjoying Lisbon’s charm.

In service since 1873 (initially horse-drawn), the tram network now includes 6 lines serving all the historic neighborhoods of Lisbon.

So of course, taking a tram ride during your stay is a must. The most well-known route—and for good reason—is Tram 28, voted “the best tram route in the world.”

This tram winds its way through all the districts of the capital, along narrow, steep streets, sometimes passing so close to the walls and windows of typical houses that it creates a truly unique experience.

Take a break:

• Graça district: an authentic neighborhood where you can discover the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, the Graça religious complex, Cerca da Graça garden, and the Senhora do Monte viewpoint.
• Alfama district & Portas do Sol: to see the cathedral, São Jorge Castle, and the National Pantheon.
• Baixa district: for the lively atmosphere, with Praça do Comércio, the Santa Justa Lift, and Rossio Square.
• Estrela district: a quieter area, perfect for enjoying Estrela Garden with its lakes and diverse plant species.

Practical information

Opening hours:

• First departure: 5:45 AM from Martim Moniz (6:45 AM on Sundays)
• Last departure: 9:15 PM from Martim Moniz

Trams run every 8 to 15 minutes.

If you want to avoid the crowds, try taking it early in the morning (around 9 AM) or in the evening. It’s also recommended to start from the terminus stations Campo Ourique or Martim Moniz to get a seat, even though these areas are less interesting.

Prices: Ticket purchased on board: €3.10
With the 7 Colinas card (rechargeable): €1.50 per ride

santajusta

3- Ride the Santa Justa Lift

This is one of the first things we did when we arrived in Lisbon. The Santa Justa Lift connects the Baixa district (Lisbon’s city center) to Bairro Alto (a more alternative neighborhood, perfect for discovering unique bars and small restaurants).

Standing 45 meters tall, the lift is entirely made of wrought iron. Each level features different neo-Gothic decorations, and its wooden cabin makes it a truly unique structure not to be missed.

But beyond its architectural appeal, the real highlight awaits at the top: head up to the viewing platform for a panoramic view over the city, especially of São Jorge Castle.

Practical information

Opening hours:
• May to October: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• November to April: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
(Be aware of peak hours between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM)

Prices: €6 round trip

Address :Elevador de Santa Justa

How to get there: Santa Justa Lift, R. de Santa Justa, 1150-060 Lisbon, Portugal

Recommendation: While it’s nice to see the inside of the cabin, taking the lift itself is of limited interest: the ride only lasts a few seconds, and the wait is often far too long and expensive.

The viewpoint is accessible on foot via uphill streets, so you can enjoy the view quickly and for free.

miradouro

4- Enjoy the view from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Miradouros are iconic spots in Portugal. Whether natural or purpose-built, they offer panoramic views over the landscape. And you’re in luck, Lisbon is full of them: more than 8 viewpoints allow you to admire the city.

Our favorite, and certainly one of the most famous, is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Located in the Bairro Alto district, just behind the Santa Justa Lift, it offers a stunning panoramic view over the historic city and all its landmarks.

What makes this place truly special is its lively atmosphere. Small stands selling Portuguese specialties and large shared tables make it the perfect place to start your evening while watching the sunset over this magical city. A festive vibe guaranteed!

See location

Other miradouros not to miss:

• Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte: the highest viewpoint in Lisbon
• Miradouro de Santa Luzia: famous for its azulejos (traditional tiles)
• Miradouro da Graça: an original panorama over Lisbon’s rooftops

praca

5- Discover Praça do Comércio and the Rua Augusta Arch

Praça do Comércio is one of Lisbon’s must-see landmarks, you’ll inevitably pass through it! This grand square, the most important in the city, stands on the site of the former Royal Palace, which was destroyed during the 1755 earthquake.

Always lively, the square is home to two impressive monuments:

• The Rua Augusta Arch (leading onto Rua Augusta, the main shopping street and one of the liveliest in the Baixa district) was designed by architect Santos de Carvalho to celebrate the reconstruction of the city after the great earthquake.
• The statue of King José I, the Portuguese monarch who was in power at the time of the earthquake.

Best places to eat

• 🌟 Time Out Market A food court in a beautiful hall by the Tagus River. Ideal for discovering a wide variety of Portuguese specialties all in one place. See on TripAdvisor
• 🏭 LX Factory Former industrial warehouses turned into trendy spots with many small restaurants and food trucks. Perfect for strolling and tasting a bit of everything! See on TripAdvisor
• 🥞 Manjerica The perfect place for brunch. See on TripAdvisor
• 🍷 O Corvo For a picturesque dinner in a cosy and intimate atmosphere. See on Instagram

lxfactory

6- Explore LX Factory, Lisbon’s alternative and creative hotspot

This is clearly one of my favorite places in Lisbon: alternative, creative, and original. This 23,000 m² industrial area, which once housed a textile factory, has been completely transformed into an open-air social hub. You’ll find bars, restaurants, shops, as well as coworking spaces and cultural events: concerts, exhibitions, street art, and all kinds of activities.

Don’t miss:

• Ler Devagar bookstore: set in a former printing house, its huge floor-to-ceiling bookshelves make it a truly unique place and one of the 10 most beautiful bookstores in the world.
• Rooftops with panoramic views of the 25 de Abril Bridge.
• Sunday market: vintage clothing, decor, handmade creations, and local food — the perfect opportunity to browse in a relaxed atmosphere.

Practical information

Opening hours:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 10am – 10pm
• Thursday: 10am – 12am
• Friday & Saturday: 10am – 2am

Adresse :LX Factory – Rua Rodrigues Faria, 103 – Alcantara – Lisbonne

How to get there:

• Trams: 15E and 18E – Largo do Calvário stop
• Train: Cais de Sodré line – Alcântara-Mar stop
• Bus: 201, 203, 714, 720, 732, 738, 760 – Calvário stop

More info here

cristo

7- Admire the 25 de Abril Bridge and Cristo Rei

Now head to the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Cristo Rei Sanctuary, which will probably remind you of more distant destinations… San Francisco and Rio de Janeiro, perhaps?

Let’s start with the 25 de Abril Bridge:

Stretching over 2,000 meters, this combined road and rail bridge connects Lisbon to the city of Almada. Beyond its architectural appeal, the bridge also holds strong historical and cultural significance for the city.

Originally inaugurated under the name Salazar Bridge, in tribute to the Portuguese dictator António de Oliveira Salazar, it was renamed eight years later following the 1974 Revolution.

This peaceful revolution put an end to the dictatorship in Portugal and led to the establishment of democracy. Its new name, 25 de Abril Bridge, commemorates this key date and symbolizes the freedom regained by the Portuguese people.

The Cristo Rei Sanctuary

How could you miss it… it’s one of the most impressive monuments in Portugal. Perched on its hill, facing the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge, Cristo Rei stretches out its arms toward Lisbon like a protector. You can spot it from many of Lisbon’s miradouros as well as from streets leading down to the river.

A few key facts about this monument

• This statue represents Christ the Redeemer, inspired by the one in Rio de Janeiro. The idea came from the Patriarch of Lisbon, D. Manuel Gonçalves Cerejeira, after a trip to Brazil in 1934. Approved in 1937, the project was interrupted by World War II. A promise was then made: if Portugal were spared, Cristo Rei would be built in gratitude.
• It stands 110 meters tall, including 82 meters for the pedestal and 28 meters for the statue itself. For comparison, the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio measures 38 meters in total (30 meters for the statue and 8 meters for its base).

We took a taxi from LX Factory to reach the sanctuary, it’s not far. Unsurprisingly, crossing the bridge is very impressive; we definitely didn’t regret that choice. Once there, the view over Lisbon and the bridge is breathtaking, you really feel like you’re in San Francisco!

We didn’t feel the need to go up inside the sanctuary, as the view from the esplanade was already more than satisfying.

Practical information

Sanctuary opening hours:
• October to March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• April to September: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Prices:
• Adults: €8
• Children under 13: €3
Please note: there are 74 steps to climb, and no elevator is available.

Address :Alto do Pragal, Avenida do Cristo Rei – Almada

How to get there from Lisbon:

• By ferry: Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, then bus 1 or 3 from Cacilhas to Almada (or take a taxi).
• By car or taxi: Cross the 25 de Abril Bridge

belem

8- Walk along the Tagus to the Belém Tower

Now head toward the Belém Tower, located along the banks of the Tagus River. This majestic monument was built between 1514 and 1520 as a fortress to defend the river’s entrance from invaders.

Later used as a prison, customs post, lighthouse, and even a weapons depot, the tower is a true architectural masterpiece. You can take stunning photos both up close and from afar, and enjoy a leisurely walk around the monument.

Practical information

Address :See location

How to get there:

• Train: Cais de Sodré line – Belém stop
• Tram: 15E – from Cais de Sodré, stop at Lg. Princesa (about a 6-minute walk)

Then allow about a 20-minute walk from the train station to the tower, and 6 minutes from the tram stop.

jeronimos

9- Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a jewel of Lisbon

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monastery is built in the Manueline style (with Moorish and Oriental influences), just like the nearby Belém Tower. It’s the perfect combo for exploring the Belém district.

Its church and cloister feature incredibly rich architecture, a true feast for the eyes!

We visited during lunchtime, which allowed us to explore the site without too many crowds.

Practical information

Opening hours:

• Church: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sundays and religious holidays from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Cloister: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Closed: Mondays, January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st, June 13th, and December 25th

Address :Praça do Império, 1400. À Belém‎.

How to get there:

• Train: Cais de Sodré line – Belém stop
• Tram: 15E – from Cais de Sodré, stop at Mosteiro Jerónimos
• Bus: 727, 28, 729, 714, 751 – Mosteiro Jerónimos stop

Also worth seeing nearby: The Tropical Botanical Garden and the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery

sintra

10-Explore Sintra and Pena Palace

In every capital you visit, there’s always that little getaway outside the city that you simply can’t miss. In Venice, you marvel at Murano and Burano; in Verona, you head to Sirmione; and during a stay in London, a trip to Brighton is a must. So, if you’re spending a few days in Lisbon, there’s one essential excursion: the beautiful town of Sintra.

Nestled in the heart of the hills, this Portuguese town was once a holiday retreat for the royal family and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we didn’t have much time, we chose to visit Pena Palace, opting for the full ticket including both the interior and exterior… and it’s clearly a must-see.

The interior is very interesting, with beautifully preserved royal rooms to explore, but let’s be honest: the real highlight is the exterior. The colorful terraces, yellow and red façades, architectural details, and panoramic views over the entire region make the place feel almost unreal, like something out of a fairytale.

However, there’s one major downside to this visit: the waiting time. Even though we booked timed-entry tickets on the same day, it didn’t prevent long queues. Once there, we waited much longer than expected to get in, and inside, the visit often feels like moving along in a slow line.

Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones to have experienced this, many visitors still report heavy crowds and long waiting times, even with timed tickets.

Practical information

Opening hours: Daily, generally from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (may vary depending on the season)

Prices: “Palace + Park” ticket: €20
Booking several days in advance is strongly recommended.

Address :National Palace of Sintra, Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, Portugal

How to get there:

• Train: From Lisbon to Sintra (about 40 minutes)
• Then: bus 434, taxi, or tuk-tuk to reach the palace
• By car: access is very limited

Recommendations :

• Arrive early (ideally at opening time)
• Or visit later in the day
• Wear comfortable shoes (it’s quite a climb!)

Also worth seeing in Sintra (if you have more time)

If you’re spending a full day in Sintra, there are plenty of other wonders to discover:

• Quinta da Regaleira: a mysterious estate with its famous initiation well

• Moorish Castle: ancient walls offering spectacular views over the entire region

• Monserrate Palace: much less crowded, with incredible architecture and exotic gardens

• Sintra’s historic center: charming narrow streets, local pastries, and a romantic atmosphere

The region is quite spread out and getting around takes time, so I recommend focusing on 2 to 3 sites to make the most of your visit.

Recommended 3-Day Itinerary in Lisbon

Day 1: Discover the Historic Center

Morning: Baixa & Alfama districts
• Stroll through the lively shopping streets of Baixa
• Explore the authentic alleys of Alfama, with its miradouros and charming little squares

Afternoon / Evening: São Jorge Castle
• Visit São Jorge Castle to enjoy the gardens, ramparts, and panoramic views over the city

 

Day 2: Belém & the 25 de Abril Bridgeour

Morning: Belém
• Visit Belém Tower: a historic fortress and photogenic spot by the Tagus River
• Discover the Jerónimos Monastery: a masterpiece of Manueline architecture

Lunch break: LX Factory
• Former industrial area turned into a cultural and food hub
• Don’t miss Ler Devagar bookstore, the rooftops, and the Sunday market

Afternoon: 25 de Abril Bridge & Cristo Rei Sanctuary
• Cross the 25 de Abril Bridge, a historic and architectural landmark
• Visit Cristo Rei, an iconic statue with panoramic views over Lisbon

 

Day 3: Day trip to Sintra

• Visit Pena Palace: explore its royal interiors and fairytale-like colorful exterior

Lisbon is a city that you don’t just visit—you experience it. Between its cobbled streets, breathtaking viewpoints, and unique atmosphere, every moment spent here feels special.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, this destination will leave you with unforgettable memories… and most likely the desire to come back.