Seven Hills, Endless Things to Do: A Perfect Lisbon Itinerary

Mar 21

If I had to describe Lisbon in three words, they would be: magical, artistic, and affordable. The city is a mesmerizing blend of old-world charm and modern creativity, where imperial history meets contemporary art.

Strolling through its picturesque streets, I was struck by the peaceful, walkable nature of Lisbon, the endless sunshine, and the sheer number of hidden gems. Many corners felt straight out of a fairytale, the locals were incredibly kind, taxis were surprisingly cheap, and the food selection was beyond impressive — catering to every taste and budget.

This 4-day itinerary captures the essence of Lisbon, covering top sights, breathtaking viewpoints, cultural experiences, and delicious food spots, while also including personal tips, discoveries, and curiosities.

Day 1 in Lisbon: Historic Neighborhoods & Hidden Gems

I kicked off my Lisbon adventure with a slow, immersive walk through the city, focusing on discovering its essence, one step at a time. I didn’t follow a strict itinerary — instead, I picked out one key location in each of Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods and let the journey unfold. It was the perfect way to get lost and find hidden gems along the way.

My shortlist of neighborhoods for exploring included:

Bairro Alto – Steep streets, tiled buildings, and breathtaking viewpoints. A nightlife hotspot that feels peaceful during the day.
Chiado – Lisbon’s elegant shopping and cultural district, home to historic cafés and theaters.
Baixa – The city’s grand, neoclassical downtown, filled with plazas, tram routes, and river views.
Alfama – The oldest and most atmospheric part of Lisbon, where Fado music drifts through Moorish alleyways.

If you're looking for a more structured experience, I recommend guided walking tours like the Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour, which covers key sights and historical highlights along with an iconic tram 28 ride, or the Best of Lisbon Walking Tour: Rossio, Chiado & Alfama, where you can taste local treats while learning about the city’s past. For a more active exploration, the Lisbon Highlights and Viewpoints E-Bike Tour lets you effortlessly navigate the city’s seven hills, taking in stunning viewpoints and vibrant neighborhoods along the way.

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – The Perfect Start

I began in Bairro Alto, at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, a postcard-perfect viewpoint overlooking Lisbon’s red-tiled rooftops. From here, you can spot Castelo de São Jorge, the Tagus River, and even the Ponte 25 de Abril in the distance. It’s the kind of place where locals sip coffee on the benches while tourists snap panoramic photos. If you pass by in the evening, there’s often a street musician playing fado, adding to the magic.

From here, I slowly made my way downhill into Chiado.

Santa Justa Lift & A Sweet Stop at Manteigaria

A short stroll brought me to the Santa Justa Lift, an iron neo-Gothic elevator built in 1902 by a student of Gustave Eiffel — which explains its Parisian feel. While the view from the top is impressive, the long queues aren’t worth it. Instead, I recommend skipping the lift and taking the free Carmo Convent entrance for the same view.

Just a few minutes away, I made a mandatory stop at Manteigaria, which is widely known for serving one of the best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon. The warm, flaky pastry filled with creamy custard was perfect with a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you only try one in the city, make it this one.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia – Alfama’s Hidden Gem

Continuing down into Alfama, I reached Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a scenic overlook with white-and-blue azulejo tiles, cascading bougainvillea, and one of the most soul-stirring views of Lisbon. Below, the Tagus River stretched out, and the maze-like streets of Alfama twisted through terracotta rooftops.

Just to the side of the viewpoint, I stumbled upon an unexpected artistic treasure — a mural by Nuno Saraiva, illustrating Lisbon’s history. It covers key moments like the city’s Phoenician origins, the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755, and the Carnation Revolution of 1974. It’s the kind of hidden detail that makes Lisbon feel like an open-air museum.

Arco da Rua Augusta & Praça do Comércio – The Grand Finale

Walking through Baixa, I reached the Arco da Rua Augusta, a monument to Lisbon’s resilience after the earthquake, which leads directly into Praça do Comércio, a grand, riverside plaza that once welcomed ships from the Age of Exploration.

This is where I slowed down, just around sunset time, grabbed a refreshing white sangria with fresh fruit, and just soaked in the energy around me — seagulls flying, kids chasing soap bubbles, street musicians playing, and the sun setting over the river. It felt like a scene from a movie.

If you want to venture further, just head down from Praça do Comércio to the seafront to embark on a 2-hour river cruise, complete with an open bar, DJ, and breathtaking views of the 25 de Abril Bridge silhouetted by the stunning colors of the sunset — the perfect end to a beautiful day in Lisbon and a true cherry on top.

Bonus Discoveries & Hidden Gems

I wanted the initial walk to be more about the atmosphere than ticking off sights, but along the way, I bookmarked a few spots, which I believe could make the first-day itinerary in Lisbon even more exciting:

👑 Palácio da Ajuda – A royal palace filled with lavish Baroque interiors, grand chandeliers, and magnificent halls, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s royal past.
🏰 Castelo de São Jorge – A medieval fortress with breathtaking panoramic views over Lisbon and historic ramparts to explore.
🌳 Jardim do Torel – A peaceful hillside garden with lush greenery, stunning city views, and a relaxing ambiance.
🛍️ Embaixada – A unique shopping gallery set inside a beautifully restored Moorish-style palace, perfect for discovering artisanal and local designer finds.
🏛️ Palácio Fronteira – A historic Baroque palace renowned for its intricate Azulejo tilework, elegant statues, serene fountains, and picturesque garden ponds.

Oh, and one unexpected highlight? A free port wine tasting at Garrafeira Napoleão in Alfama.

I always assumed port was just a sweet, heavy drink, but this experience completely changed my mind. Depending on the aging process, barrels, and grape selection, some tasted like cherry or chocolate liqueur, with none of the harsh alcohol burn I expected — just smooth, velvety flavors.

The best part? The tasting was free, but I couldn’t resist picking up a mini selection as souvenirs (and, let’s be honest, for a perfect post-dinner digestivo on the rest of the trip!).

Ending the Night at Time Out Market

I wrapped up this perfect Lisbon walk at Time Out Market, a buzzing food hall where top local chefs serve everything from seafood to modern twists on Portuguese classics. But Lisbon’s food scene deserves so much more than a quick mention — so stay tuned, because I’ll be diving deep into the best eats in the city at the end of the article!

Day 2 in Lisbon: Culture & Creative Spaces

Lisbon’s artistic soul shines through its blend of history and modern creativity. Despite the rain cutting my second-day plans short, I managed to explore two incredible art spaces. From the timeless elegance of azulejo tiles in a century-old building to the dynamic energy of a former factory turned cultural hub, these places beautifully bridge Lisbon’s past and present, much like the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril.

Museu Nacional do Azulejo

If I had to pick only one museum in Lisbon, it would be the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, where Portugal’s iconic azulejo tiles are beautifully displayed within a stunning 16th-century former convent.

The collection spans centuries, featuring intricate hand-painted tiles that depict everything from daily life to mythical creatures. The standout exhibit? A stunning 36-meter-long panel that shows Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake.

After touring the exhibits, I found refuge in the peaceful courtyard café, where azulejo-inspired furniture complemented the garden setting. The museum’s internal arches and fish tiles were also fun photo opportunities, making the experience even more enjoyable.

LX Factory & Ler Devagar

LX Factory, a former industrial complex in Alcântara, is now a buzzing creative district filled with art, food, and shopping. The energy here reminded me of Berlin’s creative scene — full of life, quirky spots, and hidden gems, from unique souvenir shops to unconventional restaurants.

I was particularly impressed by Ler Devagar, an iconic bookstore with towering bookshelves, vintage printing machines, vinyl collections, and even a flying bicycle sculpture. It’s an absolute must-visit for book lovers and anyone looking for a unique cultural experience.

Can I take a moment to bow down in praise of taxi drivers in Lisbon? 🚖 The rain persisted, and the rush-hour commute between these two art spaces took a solid 20 minutes — but it only cost 6 euros. Incredible! 🙌 I can't help but tip, as the service is so good that the price almost feels unreal.

Artsy Experiences Saved for Next Trip

Although I didn’t have time to visit everything, here’s a shortlist of places and experiences I’m saving for an artsy day in Lisbon next time:

🔷 Azulejo Tile-Making Workshop – A hands-on way to experience Portugal’s famous tiles and create a unique souvenir to bring home.
🎶 Fado Music Night – A night of Lisbon’s soulful music at a local venue.
🌿 Estufa Fria Park – A stunning park featuring a greenhouse with more than 300 exotic plants, antique statues, and modern glass buildings (free on Sundays and public holidays until 2 PM).
🖼️ Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga – Portugal’s top fine arts museum, home to incredible European masterpieces.
🕌 Casa do Alentejo – A hidden gem with a Moorish-style courtyard and intricate arches (free to the public).

Day 3 in Lisbon: Belém & Lively Promenade

As the third day of my Lisbon trip unfolded, I started at Belém Tower and walked down the riverside promenade, with each next stop bringing a new experience. The sun was shining, the atmosphere was lively, and every corner of this iconic district felt full of life.

Belém Tower

As I stepped out of the taxi, Belém Tower immediately greeted me, bathed in sunlight, its ancient stones glowing warmly in the day. The surroundings were full of life — seagulls soared above, their calls blending with the music of street performers playing violins, while families strolled along the green lanes, and dogs played in the grass.

The atmosphere and views from the outside were absolutely stunning, but if you're ready to queue, there’s even more to discover inside — like the ancient cannon rooms, the royal chambers, and the exquisite Manueline and Moorish-style carvings.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Continuing along the riverside, I reached Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a stunning monument dedicated to Portugal’s Age of Exploration. The monument features impressive sculptures of explorers, navigators, and kings, with inscriptions honoring key figures like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan.

The atmosphere was vibrant and full of energy — couples enjoyed ice cream, and families with kids cycled past, laughing in the warm sunshine. The adjacent Belem Marina, symbolically located next to the monument to sea explorers, seemed to invite visitors to discover Lisbon from the water.

The view of the monument, with its figures gazing toward the horizon, made me reflect on Portugal’s pivotal role in global history. The lively energy of the promenade felt like Lisbon itself was celebrating its past while embracing the present.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Next, I visited the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see if you’re visiting the city.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is an outstanding example of Manueline architecture, a Portuguese variation of late Gothic style. It also has subtle Moorish influences, with intricate stonework, beautiful arches, and ornate details that create a sense of grandeur and peace.

The monastery’s cloisters are especially striking, with their delicate, lace-like stone carvings. It’s the kind of place that really makes you appreciate the craftsmanship and history of Lisbon.

If you have to pick just a few spots to visit in the city, this is definitely one to include.

Pastéis de Belém

No trip to Belém is complete without stopping at Pastéis de Belém, where the famous custard tarts are made. This bakery has been serving its iconic pastéis de nata since 1837, and the recipe remains a closely guarded secret. The tart’s golden, flaky pastry and creamy, sweet filling make it a true local delicacy, and the long queue outside is always a sign of its popularity.

Sitting at a bench near the river, I enjoyed the warm pastry as I watched the world go by. It felt like a small ritual, connecting me to the generations of visitors who’ve come here for the same treat. It’s absolutely worth the wait!

MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology)

My final stop was MAAT. The sleek, modern architecture of the museum stood in sharp contrast to the historic landmarks I had just visited, reaffirming how Lisbon perfectly blends its rich history with contemporary art.

The museum’s undulating design, which evokes the image of waves, pays homage to the city’s deep connection with the sea. Inside, the exhibits offered a fascinating mix of art, technology, and innovation, showing the city’s forward-thinking side. It was a refreshing change of pace and a reminder of how Lisbon is able to harmonize its past with the present and future.

Wrapping up my museum exploration, I’d say these three truly capture the heart and soul of Lisbon: the authentic Museu Nacional do Azulejo, the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery, and the contemporary MAAT. I’ll be sharing tips on how to save on museum tickets — keep reading until the end!

Day 4 in Lisbon: A Magical Journey Through Sintra

The fourth and final day of the trip was the sunniest, so I decided to spend it in Sintra, soaking in the cool, calming atmosphere of the forests and the fresh ocean air. It was the perfect way to relax and recharge before wrapping up the unforgettable Lisbon journey.

While I chose to travel by taxi and buy tickets separately to explore Sintra at my own pace, there’s also a fantastic €40 tour that includes transport to and from Lisbon, entry to Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira, a trip to Cabo da Roca, and scenic photo stops at Praia do Guincho, Cascais, and Estoril — an amazing deal considering just two entry tickets alone would cost €30.

Palácio da Pena

The first stop on the Sintra day tour was Palácio da Pena, one of its most iconic landmarks.

The palace was truly breathtaking, feeling straight out of a Disney fairytale, with its colorful towers, whimsical architecture, and stunning hilltop views.

However, two things caught me off guard — the crowds, despite it being winter, and some of the towers under reconstruction, which made it difficult to capture the perfect iconic photos.

Tip: The cheapest ticket doesn’t grant access to all areas, but if you head through the cafeteria, you can explore some of the restricted terrace areas!

Sintra Forest

After exploring the castle, I decided to follow a 38-minute path through the Sintra forest to Quinta da Regaleira.

The sunlight filtered through the trees, casting a magical glow. Ancient, towering trees with gnarled roots and whimsical stone formations lined the trail.

Tiny hobbit-like doorways peeked from the rocks, while vibrant lilies, narcissus, and wildflowers splashed color along the way.

The air was filled with birdsong, and the peaceful atmosphere was the perfect escape from the crowded palaces.

Just as I stepped out of the forest onto the main road, I stopped for a pastel de nata and bubble tea at Mistea Mountain. I couldn’t help but think: if people hike up through the forest, where I’d just enjoyed a pleasant descent — overcoming narrow paths, slippery stones, and steep ascents — they’ll reach Palácio da Pena, bypassing the main entrance.

Definitely not advice, but it's interesting how the sister city of Lisbon, built on seven hills, rewards those who are up for the challenge! 😃

Quinta da Regaleira

Built in the late 19th century by eccentric millionaire Carvalho Monteiro, Quinta da Regaleira is a mesmerizing fusion of gothic, Masonic, and pagan symbolism. Walking through it felt like a quest, unraveling one hidden story after another, with every corner revealing a new layer of mystery and every symbol begging to be understood.

It is hands-down my favorite stop on the Sintra trip, and one I can't recommend enough!

I was particularly captivated by the Initiation Well, a 27-meter deep inverted tower, with nine levels representing Dante’s Inferno. It is believed to have been used in Masonic initiation rituals, where initiates would descend blindfolded, holding a sword. At the bottom, they would encounter the Templar Cross and four tunnels, symbolizing the journey through darkness into enlightenment — a spiritual death and rebirth.

Beyond the well, the estate is a treasure trove of occult symbols and hidden meanings. The gardens are divided into two sections — one meticulously cared for, the other overgrown — symbolizing the spirit and the beast within each of us. Gargoyles watch over the Gothic palace, and statues of Greek gods stand guard among Masonic symbols scattered throughout the grounds. Everything about Quinta da Regaleira speaks to a deeper, hidden purpose — and to be honest, I just love unique and magical experiences like this!

Praia do Adraga

I really wanted to explore more of Quinta da Regaleira, but with only two hours of daylight left, I hopped into a taxi for a quick 20-minute ride to Praia do Adraga.

It was my first time seeing the ocean, and I was in awe of its raw power. The waves, crashing relentlessly from the Atlantic, seemed like a force of nature. As the golden hour bathed the beach in warm light, it felt like a scene from a movie — dogs running along the shore, waves sparkling in the sun, and long shadows stretching across the sand.

As a photographer, I couldn’t help but think, “This is paradise. Should I move here?” It was nature at its most beautiful and untamed, and I couldn’t stop soaking it all in.

Cabo da Roca

Seeing the ocean up close was hypnotic, but with only an hour of daylight left, I hopped into another 20-minute taxi ride to wrap up the Sintra trip at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe.

Standing on the cliffs felt like being on the edge of the world, with the vast ocean stretching endlessly before me. The wind howled, waves crashed against the rocks below, and the setting sun cast a soft, golden glow over everything. In that moment, at the edge of the known world, I felt a deep connection to the raw beauty around me. It was humbling, awe-inspiring — an unforgettable way to end an incredible day.

Next Time in Sintra and Beyond

Looking ahead, there’s so much more to explore in this incredible region. Monserrate Palace and the Moorish Castle were also on my shortlist, but realistically, Sintra deserves at least two full days to explore all four key landmarks and still have time for the beach and Cabo da Roca.

If I had more time in Sintra, I’d definitely stop for lunch at Moinho Dom Quixote, a charming bar that blends traditional windmills with exotic plants, rustic Bali-inspired furniture, and breathtaking views of both the ocean and the countryside — a perfect place to unwind.

Lastly, Nazare, famous for its colossal 30-meter waves, is another day trip from Lisbon on my list. This is where the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed was set.

I can only imagine the raw energy and power of that place! 🌊🏄‍♂️

Lisbon Food & Restaurant Recommendations

There’s no shortage of incredible food in Lisbon, and I had the privilege of enjoying everything from casual bites to exquisite fine dining. Here are my favorite food experiences and spots to visit!

Time Out Market

For me, Time Out Market was the ultimate place to experience Lisbon’s vibrant food scene, all under one roof. It brings together the city's best restaurants, chefs, and food stalls, offering everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to inventive international flavors.

It’s the perfect spot where locals and tourists blend effortlessly, sharing tables in a lively, energetic atmosphere — whether it’s couples on a date, colleagues enjoying a beer, families devouring pizza, or tourists like me savoring mouthwatering local delicacies.

Chef Marlene Vieira and Chef Miguel Castro e Silva were my top picks — their dishes are not only balanced and beautiful but also incredibly delicious. The best part? An exquisite tuna steak with sweet potato and spinach costs only 15 euros!

If you want to skip the hassle of searching for restaurants or paying for extras like table service, this is the place to enjoy top-quality food and variety without breaking the bank.

Instagrammable Brunch & Coffee Spots

No wonder Lisbon is a paradise for digital nomads — it’s not just the fast internet and lively city vibes that make it a great base, but also the abundance of fantastic brunch spots and cafes.

Whether you're in search of a cozy café to work for a few hours or looking to snap a perfect Instagram-worthy moment, Lisbon delivers.

After thorough research on Instagram, Google, and sampling a few spots myself, here’s my shortlist of the best brunch and coffee spots in the city:

Café Garagem – a charming spot with tall windows offering a stunning view of the terracotta roofs of Lisbon.
Fable Café – a cozy bookshop café that also hosts writer workshops.
Café Janis – a cute café known for its savory brunch options.
Tomorrow at 9 – one of the city's most beloved brunch spots.
Magnolia Café – a cozy hideaway offering signature brunch dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Casa São Miguel – known as the cutest café in Lisbon, with pastel green décor and a selection of original sweet treats.
The Midnight Espresso – a vintage café by day, serving great coffee, and transforming into a bar with signature cocktails at night.
Breakfast Lovers – a tiled café serving a variety of mouthwatering dishes, perfect for any breakfast cravings.
Shakar Coffee – a local favorite for its traditional brunch recipes with a creative twist.
Sao Roque Bakery – an Instagram-worthy bakery with stunning marble columns, chandeliers, and an elegant interior.
Heim – known as the best place for Turkish eggs and matcha.

Restaurants on My Shortlist

Lisbon is a true melting pot, and its restaurant scene is nothing short of amazing. With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed! Below are some of the spots that caught my eye for both their interiors and menus.

Full disclosure: I’m a keto lover, so expect a bias toward tartare, steaks, sashimi, and other protein-packed delights.

Bar Alimentar – a cozy wine bar known for its creative tartare and other inventive dishes.
Las Dos Manos – a unique Mexican-Japanese fusion spot in an elegant setting.
Sala de Corte – a paradise for meat lovers, ranked among the world’s top 101 steak restaurants.
Canalha – traditional Portuguese cuisine reimagined with a modern twist.
Rocco – a stylish Italian restaurant with a glamorous, Gatsby-inspired ambiance.
Palácio do Chiado – a seafood restaurant set in a stunning 18th-century palace.
JNcQUOI Asia – a luxurious Asian fusion experience, blending Indian, Thai, Chinese, and Japanese flavors.
Polémico – a creative seafood restaurant reinventing tuna tartare and other Mediterranean classics.
Senhor Vinho – a renowned Fado house serving authentic Portuguese cuisine alongside live performances.
Boa-Bao – a vibrant Asian eatery offering an array of vegan and vegetarian options.
Han Table Barbecue – a Korean restaurant featuring Wagyu beef, pickled salads, and unique cocktails.

Other Culinary Experiences

I’ve also bookmarked these amazing culinary experiences for future trips:

🍷 Food and Wine Walking Tour – Tasting 15 local specialties, sipping Port wine with regional cheese, and exploring traditional cafés and taverns in the vibrant Baixa neighborhood.
🥐 Pastel de Nata Baking Class – Making Lisbon’s iconic custard tarts with expert chefs, enjoying local drinks, and savoring homemade treats in a cozy kitchen.
🍇 Setúbal Wine Tour – Visiting the historic Bacalhôa Palace, touring two renowned wineries, tasting famous Moscatel and Periquita wines, and indulging in a traditional lunch.

A Myriad of Other Things to Do

While my 4-day trip was packed and unforgettable, my growing list of things to do in Lisbon has me already feeling saudade — that bittersweet longing to return. It seems there’s always something new to discover in this enchanting city.

For example, 🐬 dolphin watching with a marine biologist, exploring 🐟 Europe’s largest aquarium with over 8,000 marine species, 🐎 horseback riding along the dunes of Comporta Beach — Europe’s largest beach — or, pourquoi pas, taking a 🚁 15-minute helicopter flight over the majestic Tagus River with breathtaking views of Lisbon’s historic landmarks.

Honestly, after visiting 25+ countries, I can’t think of any other city that offers such a diverse range of experiences. Lisbon just keeps making me fall in love.

Transport in Lisbon

Maybe I’m spoiled, but from the moment I arrived at the airport until my departure, I only relied on two means of transport: walking and taxis. Lisbon truly allows you to live lavishly without breaking the bank when it comes to taxis. They're fast, convenient, and much more affordable compared to many other European cities, where taxi fares can easily cost double or triple.

But if you're into unlimited public transport, consider the Lisbon Card. It also unlocks free entry to 51 museums, including the Jerónimos Monastery, Torre de Belém, the National Tile Museum, the National Museum of Ancient Art, and the famous São Jorge Castle. Plus, it includes free metro access to and from the airport, as well as train rides to Sintra and Cascais.

Wrapping Up the Lisbon Journey

Lisbon is full of charm, with endless discoveries waiting to be made — often when you least expect them. I hope this guide helps you plan your adventure, making it easy to dive into the city’s best experiences. There’s so much to uncover, so take your time, savor the food, enjoy the views, and soak up the local culture.

Wishing you a magical trip, full of unforgettable moments!

Anton Levytskyi