4 Days in Lisbon Itinerary: Experience the Best
Lisbon is a city full of history, culture, and charm. And it is one of our absolute favorites in Europe, and trust us we have explored a lot of cities on the continent. In this 4 days in Lisbon itinerary, we will take you through the colorful alleys, historic landmarks, beautiful views, and loads of good food!
So are you ready?
4 days in Lisbon Itinerary: Best of sites, views & experiences!
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Located on the coast of Portugal, Lisbon is a popular tourist destination for those looking to explore everything that Europe has to offer.
From its vibrant nightlife to its world-famous museums, iconic trams, and historic castles there’s plenty to see and do in Lisbon.
If you’re looking to explore everything that this city has to offer, be sure to follow this four day Lisbon itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!
4 day Lisbon itinerary: Things to do in Lisbon in 4 days (snapshot)
- Day 1: Highlights of Lisbin – Chiado and Baixo, Praça do Comércio, History walking tour, São Jorge Castle, TimeOut Market, Pink Street, Fado show
- Day 2: Explore Belem district – Jeronimos Monastery, Maritime Museum, Belém Tower, Belem Gardens & Pastéis de Belém, LX Factory, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, sunset cruise, Bairro Alto
- Day 3: Lisbon’s experience – Lisbon City Musuem, Fado or National Azulejos Museum, Portuguese food or cooking workshop, sunset views at Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Day 4: More of Lisbon – Lisbon Oceanarium, Vasco da Gama Centre, Avenida da Liberdade (or Príncipe Real), Marquis Pombal Square, Parque Eduardo VII.
- Or Day 4: Day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais
Read: How many days in Lisbon is enough | Lisbon in one day | 2 days in Lisbon | three days in Lisbon
Planning a trip to Lisbon: Travel itinerary 4 days
Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal. It is home to the largest airport in the country – Humberto Delgado Airport.
The airport is located about 7 km (4.3 miles) northeast of the city centre of Lisbon.
When planning your trip to Lisbon from North America, the best way to get there is by flying into Lisbon Airport (LIS).
Lisbon Airport is served by many major airlines, including TAP Air Portugal and other Star Alliance members so you should have no trouble finding a flight that works for you.
Getting to the city centre from Lisbon airport
You can get to the historic centre by using the metro (located at the airport). This is one of the cheapest options.
There are airport shuttle buses called Aerobus, private transfers, and Uber available as well. Because we have traveled to Lisbon so many times, we have utilized all the different modes of transportation, and they are all reliable and safe.
On our first trip, we used shuttle buses to Marquis de Pombal Square (and then made connections). Metro was handy on our second visit (and other times we visited Lisbon).
When I traveled solo I had an early morning flight departing from the Lisbon airport and having a private transfer was although expensive, so worth it!
If you are planning a road trip to Portugal, you can surely pick up a rental car at the Lisbon airport.
Transportation in Lisbon Portugal
For 4 days in Lisbon, you will need a transport or a savings card for riding trams, metro, and buses in the city.
To save money while using public transportation in Lisbon, we recommend one of the following options,
- Lisbon Card: This card gives you unlimited free transit rides, along with discounts at various attractions. The Lisbon Card is great for bus/tram rides and can be useful to get to the airport, nearby areas, and the hotel. Plus you get entry tickets to Jerónimos Monastery, the Belem Tower, and Santa Justa Elevator
- Hop on and Hop off Bus tour: Although not a typical transport card, this tour can be purchased for 1 or 2 days, and it is a nice way to connect from the old town to Belem and see everything in between in a short time. You can stop at any of the tourist sites, and hop on and off as many times as you like for the duration of your ticket.
Viva Viagem Card: If you wish to pay for a few rides only, then use the Viva Viagem Card, and zap it or top it up as you go (when needed). You can use this to get to Sintra as well.
We did a combination of all three. Our most preferred way was a hop-on and hop-off tour for 2 days, a day tour to Sintra, and the Viva Viagem Card to get around.
Where to stay in Lisbon Portugal for 4 days?
As for accommodation, there are plenty of great places to stay in Lisbon for first-time visitors.
If you want to be in the heart of the action, stay in the Chiado and Avenida da Liberdade districts. This central neighborhood is home to many of Lisbon’s best shops, restaurants, and cafes.
The next best options are Baixa and Bairro Alto. The latter is great for apartment living and many buildings are located on narrow streets and colorful lanes filled with bars and restaurants.
Baixa is the historic downtown, and you will find most of the sightseeing spots within a fair walking distance.
Just to the north is Rossio, which is nice for shopping too, and of course, there is a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to guesthouses and fine hostels.
Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Lisbon,
- Hotel do Chiado: Hotel do Chiado is one of the finest luxury properties in Lisbon’s city centre. You will love the views of the Tagus River from the hotel rooms, and it is just a 5-minute walk from the bustling Rossio Square and Castelo de São Jorge. If you prefer a lux stay surrounded by all the things Lisbon is known for, you must book your stay here
- Lisbon Core Apartments: Prefer to stay in an Airbnb? The Lisbon Core Apartment is the answer. I stayed for 4 nights here when I traveled solo and absolutely loved it. The place was clean, and it was spacious with a kitchen and a small balcony where I chilled out. The location was in Bairro Alto, close to many restaurants, and cafes. Transportation and prime attractions were within walkable distance. Check rooms and availability here
- LX Boutique Hotel: This is an affordable hotel in the Cais do Sodre neighborhood of Lisbon. The rooms here are clean, and the best part is that you have the TimeOut Market just a few steps away! Stay here to enjoy river views, nightlife, and Fado music! Click to view availability
- easyHotel Lisbon: We stayed here on our very first trip to Lisbon. easyHotel Lisbon is a no-frills accommodation (wifi is also paid) but it is an affordable option. By staying here you are at the Marquis Pombal Square – this roundabout has transport connections, restaurants, and access to Parque Eduardo VII. Find more details here
Now, let’s go over the sightseeing options for Lisbon for 4 days! YAY! I am excited to write about this!
Day 1 of the 4 day Lisbon itinerary: Must-see attractions in Lisbon
Kickstart your first day in Lisbon with a nice breakfast!
Staying in the city’s center will allow you to have a delicious breakfast at a popular café such as Café A Brasileira, which is one of the oldest cafés in Lisbon.
Café A Brasileira was founded in 1905 and is located on Rua Garrett, in the Chiado district of Lisbon (Baixa-Chiado metro stop).
The café has a beautiful Art Nouveau interior and is known for its pastel de nata, a Portuguese egg tart.
Their menu features Portuguese specialties like codfish, grilled Iberian Pork, and a variety of sweets, fruits, and beverages.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and people-watch, Café A Brasileira is the perfect spot.
I ordered a Brasileira special latte and a pastel de nata and enjoyed the warm interiors of the cafe, all steeped in the literary, architectural, and cultural history of Lisbon.
Pro tip: If you don’t like the Brasileira do Chiado, no problem. We still recommend the Baixa-Chiado area to start your day in Lisbon, as you can grab a coffee and pastry at one of the many cafes, located near Brasileira do Chiado. You will also find a McDonald’s across the road from the cafe.
After breakfast, enjoy a walk on the iconic Portuguese pavement or calcada Portuguesa (black and white mosaic tiles), heading to the victory arch – Arco da Rua Augusta.
Arco da Rua Augusta is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. The arch was built in 1873 to commemorate the city’s reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake.
This iconic structure was designed by Portuguese architect Santos de Carvalho and was completed in 1873.
The arch is absolutely gorgeous with carvings and numerous statues. Two of the prominent figures include Vasco da Gama and the Marquis of Pombal.
Today, it stands tall as a symbol of Lisbon’s history and resilience. The arch is conveniently located in the city center and is surrounded by shops and restaurants nearby, as well as some of Lisbon’s best museums nearby.
When you cross over the arch, you will arrive at the Praça do Comércio, which is a large sea-facing square as well as a colorful promenade.
Lisbon’s Praça do Comércio was once the site of the Royal Palace, but today it is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
When the square was first built, the commercial ships would unload their goods directly onto this square, as it was considered the gateway to the city of Lisbon.
The square is home to several important monuments, including the Equestrian Statue of Joseph I and the City Museum.
There are also a number of cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink while taking in the sights and sounds of the square.
The bronze equestrian statue is of the King of Portugal – Joseph I, and it was designed by Machado de Castro in 1775. He was the king during the earthquake.
The square is great for a walk, photos and just to soak in the vibe of Lisbon – colorful, warm, historical, and the views of the neverending waters!
From the middle of the square, make your way to the Tagus river banks. There are steps that lead you to the water and here you will find the two Cais das Colunas. These are the two 18th-century columns that flank the marble steps of the square to the Tagus.
As you walk the area, you will find the views of the April 25 Bridge at a distance (this will be on your right with the Tagus right in front of you!).
This bridge looks like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and might give you a deja vu, but rest assured you are in Portugal 🙂
Ponte 25 de April is a suspension bridge and is named after the successful Portuguese Carnation Revolution of April 25th, 1974 which overthrew the government in a peaceful coup. You will get a better look at it when you visit Belem (day 2 of this itinerary) and go on a lovely sunset cruise!
On the river bank, near the square, is the Cais de Sodré ferry terminal from where several ferries depart down the Tagus River.
After a visit to the Praça do Comércio, it is now time to explore various neighborhoods in Lisbon on foot or via TukTuk and learn about its history.
Both are great options, and depending on your taste you can pick one. These tours last 2-4 hours.
We have taken both tours and it was lovely, as it gave us a nice introduction to the city with a local expert.
If we have to pick one, we recommend the walking tour as the guide was amazing and the tour also included a break at a coffee shop, riding Tram 28, and more. This was the very first tour we did in Lisbon, and still love it, and recommend it!
Essentials History Tour starts in Chiado (the meeting place) and it is one of the affordable ways to learn about Lisbon. The guide takes you through Lisbon’s neighborhoods such as Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama.
The tour covers the Alfama district in detail with stops at various viewpoints, including the Tram 28 ride. This is the historic tram, and the ride is one of the popular ones.
This ride will allow you to experience Lisbon’s cultural activity in a fun way!
This tour also includes stops at the Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara and Miradouro das Portas do Sol for that Instagram perfect photo of Lisbon ‘s cityscape and river Tagus.
Carmo convent and church are also covered on this route. Although you won’t enter the ruins of the Carmo Convent, you will be able to check it out from outside, and take in the views from Terraços do Carmo.
The Santa Justa Lift is located near the Carmo Convent, and connects the lower and upper levels of Lisbon!
You can ride the lift for free when you purchase the Lisboa Card, or just admire the views from the nearby terrace.
(Pro tip: We recommend coming back to this spot in the evening for views and drinks. You can also visit the Carmo Convent at night, they have a lights show after 9:30 pm, and it lasts 45 minutes. This is a seasonal activity though).
The walking tour ends at the Lisbon Cathedral. You can visit the cathedral interiors before heading to the next item on this itinerary (entry is free).
Our guide shared the history of Lisbon from the age of discoveries to the 1775 earthquake, Pombaline architecture, dictatorship, Carnation Revolution, and beyond.
History of Lisbon: Lisbon’s earthquake of 1755 was one of the most destructive and deadly earthquakes in history. Many buildings were destroyed or severely damaged, including churches, palaces, and government buildings.
In the aftermath of the disaster, Lisbon was rebuilt using new earthquake-resistant construction techniques called Pombaline architecture. The term ‘Pombaline’ was named after Marquis de Pombal. He was a Portuguese statesman who served as the Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777.
A walking history tour will allow you to learn all of that, as well as soak in the views from various vantage points in Lisbon. This 3 hour history tour is amazing, and we highly recommend it!
The morning tour starts at 9:30 am from Chiado. And it ends at the Lisbon Cathedral (at about 12:30 pm), and from here you can walk to the next stop Castelo de Sao Jorge.
Alternate Option: TukTuk Tour
Lisbon is hilly, and if you do not wish to walk, then a Tuk Tuk tour is the way to go. I have taken a private tour and it was a great experience as well.
A TukTuk guide tour is for 1.50 to 2 hours, and it will provide ample stops for photos and sightseeing.
Note that you won’t be able to ride the Tram as it is not a part of the tour. Most TukTuk tours also offer hotel pick and drop-off and can be tailored to your schedule.
Now, back to the itinerary!
Visit the Castelo de Sao Jorge next. Sao Jorge castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon.
The castle is located on top of a hill in the center of the city and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
The castle dates back to the 11th century and was originally built by the Moors. It was later captured by the Christians during the Reconquista and has been under Christian control ever since.
The castle has undergone several renovations over the centuries, but still retains its original Moorish architecture. Due to its vantage position, the castle can be seen from various parts of the city of Lisbon.
We recommend booking a Skip the line ticket to enter the premises. It is not uncommon to see huge line-ups in front of the castle gates.
With an entry ticket, you can explore the castle grounds, and take in stunning views of the city below.
- Book Tickets: Sao Jorge Castle
- Hours: Everyday 09:00 am to 09:00 pm
After visiting the castle grounds, it is time to hang out in the Cais do Sodre neighborhood. This area is home to a number of bars and clubs, including the epic TimeOut Market!
The Food Court at the TimeOut Market in Lisbon is in the Ribeira Mercado of Cais do Sodré. This indoor market is home to over 40 different restaurants, all of which serve up delicious Portuguese cuisine.
The area is very colorful and worth strolling and enjoying the views of the Tagus river from the Cais do Sodre waterfront promenade.
Later, walk to check out Pink Street, which is one of the prettiest photo spots in Lisbon.
Pink Street was the red light district of Lisbon in the past. Today it is filled with cool cafes and it is a nice walk through enjoying the vibes of this historic area.
Next, head over to the Carmo Convent and enjoy a lovely sunset view from the nearby Terraços do Carmo. This is a terrace area with an open-air café and bar.
Occasionally you will also find local artisans selling handmade jewelry and paintings.
(I bought some rings that were made of steel and they don’t tarnish at all. They were pricey, but they look so good!)
You can either walk up to the convent ruins or ride the Santa Justa lift to get to the terrace.
Sit back, and relax over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.
Here is one last activity for your day one in Lisbon, and that is to catch a fado show.
Fado music is an integral part of Lisbon culture – and has been for centuries. This traditional Portuguese folk music is characterized by its melancholic lyrics and soulful melodies, which often reflect on themes such as love, loss, and yearning.
Fado in Chiado is a popular show in the heart of Lisbon. Fado show and dinner is a fantastic option too such as this one in Mouraria.
Another option is Café Luso in Alfama – this intimate venue is the perfect place to enjoy an authentic fado performance, and the food is pretty darn good too.
Note that restaurants in Lisbon are open till late at the night, and it is normal to dine after 08:30 pm or even 09:00 pm.
Day 2 of the Lisbon 4 day itinerary: Explore attractions in Belem
Today is all about exploring the district of Belem.
Belem is located about a 30-minute drive or train ride away from the city centre of Lisbon. This is where you can see the Jeronimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem.
Then, in the afternoon hang out at the quirkiest LX Factory, and then soak in sunset views from River Tagus on a cruise!
The Jeronimos Monastery is one of the popular Lisbon landmarks and it is usually always crowded – with long queues.
We recommend grabbing a quick breakfast and then making your way to Belem as soon as possible so that you can get into the Jeronimos Monastery with ease.
Travel to Belem: 30-minute Uber ride | 30-40 minute train ride from Baixa
Jeronimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the stunning examples of Manueline, or Portuguese Late Gothic architecture.
You must not miss the vaulted ceilings and intricate 16th-century carvings and ornamental features, which reflect the era in which it was built.
Plus the Jeronimos Monastery is also an awesome Lisbon photo spot!
On the same complex, you will also find a Maritime Museum, this is my absolute favorite.
Here you will find exhibits from the Age of Discoveries, Vasco da Gama, and the details of the sea route to India.
If you didn’t know I majored in History and this was my favorite topic – sea discoveries and understanding colonization! Highly recommend a visit there.
Not into history? No problem. The gardens at the Jeronimos Monastery complex are perfect for a lovely stroll, photos, or even just relaxing under the shade on a warm sunny day.
Remember that entry to the monastery is not free. We recommend buying a Skip The Line ticket to get in without waiting for a while.
- Book Tickets: Jeronimos Monastery ticket
- Hours: Mondays closed. Tuesday to Sunday open from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
Next, head to the nearby Tower of Belem or Torre de Belém in Portuguese. This 16th-century tower is a symbol of Portugal’s maritime power and is one of the most photographed spots in the city.
The official name of the tower is Torre de São Vicente de Belém, after the patron saint of the city of Lisbon.
The tower was designed by architect Francisco de Arruda. Its original purpose was to be a defensive fort, meant to protect Lisbon from possible raids.
In the later years, it served as a telegraphic signal post and even a lighthouse.
You can see the tower from outside (for free). With a ticket, you can get access to the tower complex, and this offers an up-close look at the Tagus River.
You can expect a line-up here too, but it clears up quickly as compared to the monastery.
- Book Tickets: Starts at 6 euros
- Hours: Mondays closed. Tuesday to Sunday open from 10:00 am to 05:30 pm
The spot where the Belem Tower is located is also where you will find the Port of Lisbon. There are sea-facing cafes, and a waterfront promenade filled with hippo tours, souvenir shops, and other services.
You can break here for brunch before continuing on to the next sightseeing stop. If you are on a hop-on and hop-off tour, Belem tower is a good pick-up/drop-off spot as well.
After Port of Lisbon, head to Jardim de Belém and Pastéis de Belém, and then to LX Factory. To visit both, an Uber ride will make it faster/easier.
The Gardens of Belem have a lovely Thai – Sala pavilion that commemorates diplomatic relationships between the two countries – Portugal and Thailand.
The pavilion, called Thai Room, was built in Thailand and then placed here in 2012. It is a small space but can be added to your Lisbon itinerary if interested.
When in Belem, you must stop at the popular Pastéis de Belém (restaurant) to try the delicious Portuguese custard tarts.
Did you know that the monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Belem created Pastel de Natas? Although today you can find these puff pastries anywhere in Portugal and maybe Europe (+ Canada!), this recipe dates back to the 18th century.
Pastéis de Belém is super close to the gardens so it is worth a quick visit to try the tarts. But don’t have lunch here yet.
Travel to LX Factory for that! LX Factory is located in the Alcântara district.
Set on a former textile factory complex, this hang-out spot in Lisbon has been transformed into a hip and happening area, complete with art galleries, trendy restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops. There’s even a weekly flea market!
Once at the Lisbon LX Factory, enjoy a lovely stroll and explore everything that it has from street art, murals, and graffiti pieces to unique converted warehouse containers.
When you need a break, stop for coffee or a bite to eat at one of the many cafes. There are international and local cuisines here (limited Portuguese meal options though) plus ice cream parlors.
LX Factory is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home. There are plenty of independent shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to art and homewares.
After spending time at the LX Factory make your way to Padrão dos Descobrimentos. This is a free attraction that showcases the work of pioneers and everyday people who contributed to Portuguese maritime success and growth.
The monument is gorgeous in white and it looks amazing in the golden hour.
A short walk from Padrão dos Descobrimentos is the departing port for your sunset cruise! YAY! You will love this Lisbon experience – especially with drinks and snacks and warm sunset hues!
Here is a sunset cruise I booked. It lasts 2 hours and starts late in the evening (06:45 pm for sunset, or 09:15 pm for the nighttime cruise).
If you’re looking for a unique and romantic way to experience Lisbon, a sunset cruise is definitely the way to go.
The cruise takes you on the River Tagus and from the comfort of your seat (or deck) you can see Lisbon’s landmark structures such as the 25 de April Bridge, the towering statue of Sanctuary of Christ, the tower of Belem, and more!
- Book tickets: Here is a sunset cruise
- Note: You can also take a sunset cruise from the city centre like this one. This cruise leaves at 7:45 pm and lasts an hour and a half. It is great if you wish to stay closer to your hotel in central Lisbon!
After a stunning sunset cruise, proceed to the Bairro Alto area for dinner and drinks. Bairro Alto is one of the vibrant neighborhoods in Lisbon
It is the official nightlife district of Lisbon filled with lively bars and restaurants, quaint shops, and colorful old buildings. This is the perfect place to end your sightseeing on day 2 by chilling at a local bar and dancing the night away.
Bairro Alto is like walking into a party – with great food, music, and ambiance!
Note that most of the bars and restaurants in Bairro Alto are open until 1:00 am. And this area is generally safe for walking at night, but avoid it after bars and shops close. When I stayed in the Bairro Alto district, I was home between 10:00 to 11:00 pm.
Day 3 of the Lisbon 4 day itinerary: Lisbon’s best views, cooking class, and museums
The most exciting part of day 3 in Lisbon is that you get to pick your favorite activities and indulge in unique experiences. We recommend visiting 1-2 museums in the city centre.
If museums are not your thing, you can swap that for a photo tour in an old neighborhood or go souvenir shopping.
We are museum fans so we started with the Lisbon City Museum. The city museum is home to a wealth of information on how Lisbon was before the 1775 earthquake. You can see exhibits such as precious maps and prints from before and after the quake.
- Book Tickets: 3 euros
- Hours: Mondays closed. Tuesday to Sunday open from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm
If you are not a history museum fan, opt for the Fado or National Azulejos Museum.
As the name suggests Museu do Fado is all about the history of Fado music and its evolution.
Located in the Alfama district, in this museum, you can see various exhibits such as photographs, musical instruments, etc. from the 19th century till today.
- Book Tickets: 5 euros. Lisbon cardholders 4 euros
- Hours: Mondays closed. Tuesday to Sunday open from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm
Tip: If you have never tried gingha, you can try some at a stall near the Fado Museum. Ginjinha is a liqueur made from sour cherries. It’s deep red in color and is served in edible chocolate cups and it tastes delicious.
There are also nice cafes in the Alfama district where you can take a break before moving on to the next item on your Lisbon itinerary.
The National Azulejo Museum or the National Tile Museum showcases the history of Portugal’s cultural history, of colorful white and blue glazed tiles and more. You can peep into the inspirations and influences of the Moors and how it is now part of the Portuguese legacy.
- Book Tickets: 5 euros. Free with Lisbon Card
- Hours: Mondays closed. Tuesday to Sunday open from 10:00 am to 01:00 pm, and then 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm
Note that all of these museums are located in the city center, and can be easily reached by walking or taking the tram/tuk tuk from Rossio and Chiado.
In the afternoon, add a food tour or join a cooking class to enrich your Portuguese culinary experience. These tours are for 2-3 hours each. We did both on separate trips, but I personally enjoyed my cooking class.
My cooking class was for 2+ hours, and we learned to make pastel de nata (puff pastries) and codfish pancakes (savory). It was a wonderful experience and something that I will always treasure.
After the cooking class, we relished all our culinary creations!
On a guided food tour, you can join a small group and hop from one district to another sampling different Portuguese dishes and drinks.
This is a great way to see some hidden gems and try the best food (and they are all soooo filling) while listening to stories and tips!
After a food tour, you won’t have room to eat anything else that evening, which is great as you can now enjoy some drinks at an epic Lisbon viewpoint!
Head to Miradouro de Santa Luzia. This viewpoint is located by the church of Santa Luzia in the Alfama district, and it offers gorgeous views of the pretty orange rooftops and Tagus river.
Portas Do Sol Terrace is in the vicinity and it is a pretty terrace with bars and amazing views. You can hang out there until the sun goes down and enjoy a lovely sunset whilst drinking wine!
Day 4 of the 4 days in Lisbon itinerary: Option 1 More of Lisbon
On your fourth day in Lisbon, you can either venture outside the city and visit Sintra or nearby beaches.
Or explore newer parts of Lisbon like the Oceanarium and go shopping! When staying in the city centre, you will have to hop on a train or a hop-on and hop-off bus tour to get to these areas of Lisbon. But it is all worth it!
The attractions that we will discover today are very different from the historic districts of Lisbon such as Baixa, Alfama, and Graca.
Make plans to travel to Parque das Nações. This is a redeveloped area where Lisbon hosted the 1998 Expo. Oceanário de Lisboa is located here.
Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the largest and most modern oceanariums in Europe. The facility was opened to the public in May of 1998.
The Lisbon Oceanarium is home to 500 different species of marine animals from all over the world. These include sharks, rays, penguins, seabirds, and a variety of fish. The oceanarium also has a number of interactive exhibits, such as a touch pool where visitors can pet stingrays.
One of the highlights of the Lisbon Oceanarium is the main tank, which is one of the largest in Europe. This tank holds more than 5,000 cubic meters of water and is home to a variety of sharks, rays, and fish.
The main tank also has a glass viewing tunnel where visitors can get an up-close look at the marine life.
Other attractions at the Lisbon Oceanarium include a kids’ play area, a café, and a gift shop. The facility is also available for private events, such as weddings and corporate functions.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do in Lisbon, the Oceanarium is a great option. You can spend the whole day here or just a few hours before continuing to the next stop.
- Book Tickets: Oceanarium entry ticket
- Hours: Every day from 10:00 am to 07:00 pm
After the Oceanarium, you can hang out at Centro Vasco da Gama, and stop for a meal.
When using the hop-on and hop-off service, we recommend enjoying a full loop of the route. This is where you can see the Vasco da Gama bridge, Oriente Station, and more.
In the afternoon, plan to explore Avenida da Liberdade.
Avenida da Liberdade is one of the most beautiful and popular avenues in Lisbon. It is a wide, tree-lined boulevard that runs from Marques de Pombal Square to Eduardo VII Park.
Along the avenue, you’ll find some of the city’s best shopping, as well as several top hotels and restaurants. This district is to Lisbon what Champs Elysees is to Paris, so even if you don’t wish to shop, you can still enjoy its ambiance!
During the month of June, when Lisbon celebrates its patron Saint’s festival, parades and shows (street parties) are held here at Avenida da Liberdade.
Alternate option: Another option is to visit the Principe Real district, which is home to boutique shops and cool bars!
After exploring Avenida da Liberdade, make your way to Marquis Pombal Square. From here, climb up to another amazing viewpoint while enjoying a lovely stroll through one of Lisbon’s largest parks, the Parque Eduardo VII.
This spot is perfect for sunset views! Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the venture!
Read: Portugal Itinerary 2 weeks
Day 4 of the 4 days in Lisbon itinerary: Option 2 Day trips
For most visitors to Lisbon, a third or fourth day is usually spent exploring places like Sintra, Cascais, Obidos, Nazare, and Fatima. All of these are great options to appreciate the uniqueness of the Portuguese coastline and hilly areas.
As a first-time visitor to Lisbon, we recommend exploring Sintra so that the iconic Pena Palace is checked off your Portugal bucket list.
If you wish to do something different – Evora and Obidos (small Portuguese cities and towns) are amazing day trip ideas. My personal choice is Obidos – it’s beautiful, compact, and accessible with tours or buses.
Fatima is also a possible option for a day tour from Lisbon. You can even explore it in 4 hours or so. Another half-day activity is to visit Nazare for surfing and beach time.
So yes, LOTS to choose from. We will go over these options in the next section, but for now, let’s focus on Sintra and the gorgeous Pena Palace and nearby areas!
Getting to Sintra from Lisbon,
- Drive: The driving distance is 30 km or 18 miles, and it will take 30 minutes to get there. Navigating Sintra with a car is a little difficult, but you can surely drive to the town centre and then walk/take a bus to Pena Palace
- Train: Take the train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station, and arrive in Sintra in about an hour. The station is just a short walk away from the town centre. You can use both Via Viagem and Lisboa Card for this ride.
- Guided tour: Opt for a full-day tour of Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca. This excursion includes guided sightseeing at the Pena Palace and free time at the centre (where you can visit Sintra National Palace, shop, etc) on your own. Book this day tour here.
Here is our complete guide to Lisbon to Sintra day trip. It has step-by-step details and sightseeing information with photos!
Sintra is a charming hill town situated just outside of Lisbon and is home to some of the most beautiful architecture and scenery in the area.
From the stunning Pena Palace to the quaint Moorish Castle, there’s plenty to see and do in Sintra. And with its convenient location, it’s the perfect place to head out to Cascais as well as Cabo da Roca on a single trip.
You can drive there or join a guided tour to see it all. If you are using public transportation we recommend staying in Sintra only for the day.
After arriving in Sintra, take some time to explore the town and get your bearings. Start by wandering through the picturesque streets of the old town, which is filled with colorful houses and charming shops.
Then, make your way up to the Moorish Castle for stunning views over the town and surrounding countryside. You can hop on a bus (or even a sightseeing tour bus to get there. Please do not walk to the Castle or Pena Palace, it could be dangerous).
Next, head to one of Sintra’s famous palaces the Pena Palace. This is where you will spend most of your time exploring various rooms, and taking in the views from its famed terraces.
There are palace gardens too nearby that are worth visiting. But this will be an extra hour or so for you to completely enjoy the walk and the scenery.
Thereafter, head to the Quinta da Regaleira, a 19th-century estate known for its architecture and initiation wells, and gardens.
In the afternoon, relax with a glass of Portugal’s famous vinho verde wine in one of Sintra’s many cafes, and order lunch!
After lunch, visit the Palacio Nacional de Sintra, a grand palace that dates back to the 15th century. Be sure to also wander through the grounds, which are home to several impressive sculptures.
In the evening, enjoy a stroll in the town center.
If you have access to a vehicle, you can stop by the Monserrate Palace on your way back to Lisbon. This attraction is known for its beautiful English gardens.
Another option is to add a quick trip to the resort town of Cascais. Of course, you won’t have an entire day here but it will surely give you a glimpse of the lovely coastline of Portugal (and you can make plans to return :))
On a day tour, a stop is included at Cascais as well as Cabo da Roca, which is the westernmost point of the European continent!
Read: 10 day Portugal itinerary
Day trips from Lisbon Portugal: Travel Guide
With 4 days in Lisbon, you can even set aside time to explore two destinations. Like you can do Sintra on day 3, and another day trip on day 4.
You won’t be missing out on a lot in Lisbon if you carefully choose what you wish to do as per your travel style and taste.
To explore more of Portugal, know that Lisbon is the perfect base city. You can easily hop on a train, bus or join a guided tour to enjoy some of the cities and little towns close to the Portuguese capital city.
Read: Complete guide to Lisbon day trips
Here are a few of our favorites,
Obidos: If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, Obidos is the perfect day trip.
Just an hour away by road, this medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its well-preserved buildings and history.
Stroll along the city walls, explore the castle, or simply relax with a glass of the local cherry liqueur.
There are plenty of bakeries and cafes to keep you fueled for a day of sightseeing.
Read: One day in Obidos itinerary | Travel from Lisbon: One hour by car or bus
Nazare: In the mood for some beach time? Head to Nazare, another town along Portugal’s stunning coastline.
With its dramatic cliffs and crashing waves, it’s easy to see why Nazare is a popular spot for surfers.
Even if you’re not a fan of the sport, it’s worth spending an afternoon walking along the promenade and taking in the views.
Travel from Lisbon: 1.50 hours by car | Tour: Private tour of Nazare and villages
Batalha: Batalha monastery is another epic day trip option from Lisbon. This 14th-century building is one of Portugal’s most important religious sites.
The monastery’s vast size and detailed interiors are truly breathtaking. Be sure to visit the royal pantheon, where several Portuguese kings and queens are buried.
Travel from Lisbon: 1.50 hours by car | Tour: Full day tour of Fatima, Nazare, and Batalha
Tomar: If you’re looking for a less touristy option, consider Tomar, a small town located in the center of Portugal and is home to the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ.
This former Templar stronghold is now a museum, and its massive size and beautiful grounds are well worth a visit.
Tomar is also a great place to try traditional Portuguese cuisine like cozido, a stew made with meat and vegetables.
Travel from Lisbon: 1.50 hours by car or train | Tour: Day tour to Tomar from Lisbon
Evora: This is another beautiful city accessible on a day trip from Lisbon. Evora is known for its ancient Roman Temple of Évora (also called the Temple of Diana). You can get there by public transportation or on a guided tour.
Travel from Lisbon: 1.50 hours by car | Tour: Full day tour to Evora
Fatima: If you’re looking to visit a religious site, consider a full-day tour of Fatima. This town is known as a pilgrimage site, but even if you’re not religious, it’s worth seeing.
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Fatima.
Travel from Lisbon: 1.50 hours by car | Tour: Full day tour of Fatima, Nazare, and Batalha
Whether you’re interested in history, religion, or simply want to relax by the beach, there’s plenty to do in Lisbon and its surrounding areas.
With a little planning, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Read: Portugal 8 day itinerary
Lisbon Itinerary 4 days: Sightseeing Map
Lisbon Travel Tips
When planning a trip to Lisbon, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, the city is located on the coast of Portugal, so you’ll want to pack your swimsuit if you’re planning on spending any time at the beach.
Second, Lisbon is known for its hilly streets, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Finally, the city is home to a number of world-famous museums, so be sure to leave some time in your itinerary to explore them.
With these things in mind, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring everything that Lisbon has to offer.
We have included additional travel tips for Lisbon to help you craft your itinerary.
Tourist visa: So, Lisbon is located in Portugal and Portugal is a European Union member.
If you require a tourist visa to visit the Schengen zone countries, then the same visa applies to entering Portugal.
Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however from 2023, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel.
Currency and budget: Lisbon is one of the affordable European capital cities. They use Euros as the official language.
Plan to set aside a budget of $85-90 USD per person. This includes a mid-range hotel on a double occupancy basis, food, tours, and transportation.
You can lower the daily costs by staying in a hostel, and not doing any guided tours (roughly $60 USD per person).
Getting Around: Lisbon is a very walkable city, and the best way to see it is on foot. However, there is also an excellent public transportation system, so getting around is easy.
If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing, we recommend buying a Lisboa Card, which gives you unlimited access to public transportation and discounts at many of the city’s attractions.
When to visit Lisbon: The best time to visit Lisbon is from April to October when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so book your hotel and flight well in advance.
Summers are super hot, but in the month of June Lisbon is colored in festive hues with celebrations, street parties, and great food! Just for the festival alone, the heat and sweat are worth it!
What to pack for Lisbon in four days: Packing comfortable walking shoes are a must for hilly Lisbon.
Also, add sunscreen, and nice pretty dresses + beachwear. If you are visiting in winter, a nice jacket will be needed (but you won’t need a huge parka, as it doesn’t get much colder).
What to buy in Lisbon: There are so many beautiful and affordable items to bring back from Lisbon. I personally picked up slate magnets, cork accessories, wallets, jewelry, coin purses, and many art pieces for decoration.
You can also buy Portuguese tiles and ceramics. Packaged food items like a box of pastel de nata, coffee, and wine bottles can be bought home as souvenirs.
What to eat: Portuguese food is delicious, and Lisbon is the perfect place to try it.
Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as bacalhau (codfish), pastel de nata (custard tart), and Portuguese wine.
So that’s a BIG wrap! We hope you found this post on Lisbon 4 day itinerary useful. Whether you’re seeking culture or relaxation, be sure to follow this itinerary to make the most of your time in Lisbon.
More Portugal travel guides are below:
- Porto: One day in Porto | 3 days in Porto
- Braga: One day in Braga | Day trips from Porto
- Guimaraes: Guimares day trip itinerary
Pin: Perfect Lisbon 4 day itinerary
