Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Lisbon that is fast-paced, family-friendly and excludes museums:
Day 1:
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Belem Tower. This historic tower is a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery and offers stunning views of the Tagus River.
Next, head to the nearby Jeronimos Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful cloisters.
After exploring the monastery, take a stroll through the nearby Jardim de Belém, a beautiful park with fountains and sculptures.
For lunch, try some traditional Portuguese dishes at one of the many restaurants in the area.
In the afternoon, head to the Alfama neighborhood, one of the oldest and most charming areas of Lisbon. Take a walk through the narrow streets and alleys, and admire the colorful buildings and tiled facades.
End your day with a ride on the famous Tram 28, which takes you through the heart of Lisbon's historic neighborhoods.
Day 2:
Start your day with a visit to the Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the city. Kids will love exploring the castle walls and towers.
Next, head to the nearby Miradouro das Portas do Sol, a scenic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the city and the Tagus River.
For lunch, try some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants in the Baixa neighborhood.
In the afternoon, take a ride on the Elevador de Santa Justa, a historic elevator that takes you up to the Bairro Alto neighborhood. From there, explore the trendy shops and cafes in the area.
End your day with a sunset cruise along the Tagus River. You'll get to see Lisbon from a different perspective and enjoy the beautiful colors of the sunset.
Day 3:
Start your day with a visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Kids will love seeing the sharks, rays, and other sea creatures up close.
For lunch, try some delicious Portuguese pastries at one of the many bakeries in the area.
In the afternoon, take a ride on the historic Tram 15, which takes you through the charming neighborhoods of Lisbon's western suburbs.
End your day with a visit to the Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon's most iconic squares. Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the Tagus River.
Places of interest
Belem Tower
Belem Tower is a historic tower located in Lisbon, Portugal. It was built in the 16th century and served as a fortress to protect the city from invaders. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Jeronimos Monastery is a stunning example of Portuguese Gothic architecture located in Lisbon. It was built in the 16th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jardim de Belém is a beautiful garden located in the historic district of Belém in Lisbon, Portugal. It features lush greenery, colorful flowers, and stunning views of the Tagus River.
Alfama is a historic neighborhood in Lisbon known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and traditional Fado music. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city and offers stunning views of the Tagus River.
Tram 28 is a historic tram line in Lisbon that takes passengers on a scenic tour through the city's narrow streets and steep hills, passing by many of its famous landmarks and attractions.
Castelo de São Jorge is a historic castle located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. It offers stunning views of the city and is a popular tourist attraction.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a popular viewpoint in Lisbon that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. It is located in the Alfama neighborhood, one of the oldest and most charming areas of Lisbon.
Baixa is the historic heart of Lisbon, characterized by its grand plazas, elegant architecture, and bustling streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.
The Elevador de Santa Justa is a historic elevator located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. It was built in the late 19th century and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
Bairro Alto is a historic neighborhood in Lisbon known for its vibrant nightlife, narrow streets, and colorful buildings. It's a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops to explore.
Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along the Tagus River in Lisbon, taking in stunning views of the city's skyline and landmarks. Sip on a glass of wine or champagne as you relax on board and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Oceanário de Lisboa is a large aquarium located in Lisbon, Portugal. It features a variety of marine life from around the world, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, and penguins.
Parque das Nações is a modern and vibrant neighborhood in Lisbon, located by the Tagus River. It was built for the 1998 World Exposition and features contemporary architecture, parks, gardens, restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
The Vasco da Gama Tower is a 145-meter tall tower located in Lisbon, Portugal. It was built for the 1998 World Exposition and offers stunning views of the city and the Tagus River.
Pavilhão do Conhecimento is a science museum located in Lisbon, Portugal. It offers interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages to explore and learn about science and technology.
Tram 15 in Lisbon is a historic tram line that takes passengers on a scenic route through the city's narrow streets and up steep hills, offering stunning views of the city and its landmarks.
Praça do Comércio is a large public square located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. It is also known as Terreiro do Paço and was once the site of the Royal Ribeira Palace before it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1755.