5 day itinerary for Lisbona

Itinerary

Lisbon is such a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Let’s craft an exciting 5-day itinerary that skips the museums but still lets you soak in the culture and charm of this beautiful city. Ready? Let’s go!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Lisbon

Morning:

• Start your day in Baixa, the downtown area. Grab a pastel de nata (a delicious custard tart) at Pastéis de Belém or Manteigaria. Trust me, you’ll want to savor this treat!
• Stroll through Praça do Comércio, a grand square by the river. Take in the views of the Tagus River and the iconic Arco da Rua Augusta.

Afternoon:

• Head up to Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, and don’t forget to stop by the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for stunning views of the city.
• Enjoy lunch at a local tavern. Try some bacalhau à brás (codfish) or sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines).

Evening:

• Make your way to Castelo de São Jorge. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of Lisbon as the sun sets.
• For dinner, find a cozy restaurant in Alfama and enjoy some live Fado music while you eat. It’s a soulful experience!

## Day 2: Belém and the Riverfront

Morning:

• Take a tram or a leisurely walk to Belém. Start with a visit to the Jerónimos Monastery (the architecture is stunning, even if you’re skipping the inside).
• Don’t miss the Belém Tower nearby. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great photo op!

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré. You’ll find a variety of food stalls offering everything from seafood to gourmet burgers.
• After lunch, stroll along the riverfront. You can walk or rent a bike to enjoy the scenic views.

Evening:

• Head back to the city center and explore the Chiado district. It’s a great place for shopping and people-watching.
• For dinner, try a traditional Portuguese meal at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to pair it with some Portuguese wine!

## Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

Morning:

• Take a train from Rossio Station to Sintra (about 40 minutes). This fairy-tale town is a must-visit!
• Start with Pena Palace. The colorful architecture and gardens are breathtaking.

Afternoon:

• After exploring the palace, head to Quinta da Regaleira. The gardens and initiation well are enchanting!
• Enjoy lunch in Sintra at a local café. Try the travesseiros, a sweet puff pastry filled with almond cream.

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon and relax at your accommodation for a bit.
• For dinner, explore the Bairro Alto district. It’s lively at night, with plenty of bars and restaurants. Enjoy some tapas and a drink!

## Day 4: Cascais and Estoril

Morning:

• Take a train to Cascais (about 30 minutes). This charming coastal town is perfect for a day trip!
• Stroll along the Cascais Marina and enjoy the sea breeze.

Afternoon:

• Visit Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth) for stunning coastal views. It’s a great spot for photos!
• Have lunch in Cascais, perhaps at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood.

Evening:

• Head to Estoril, just a short distance away. Walk along the promenade and enjoy the sunset.
• For dinner, find a nice restaurant in Estoril or return to Lisbon for a meal in the Alfama district.

## Day 5: Local Life and Relaxation

Morning:

• Start your day at the Campo de Ourique Market. It’s a local market where you can grab breakfast and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Jardim da Estrela, a beautiful park perfect for relaxing.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Príncipe Real neighborhood. It’s known for its trendy shops and gardens. Don’t miss the Embaixada, a unique shopping gallery in a historic building.
• Have lunch at a local café, enjoying the laid-back vibe.

Evening:

• For your last night, consider a sunset cruise on the Tagus River. It’s a magical way to see the city from the water.
• End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying the stunning views of Lisbon’s skyline.

And there you have it! A delightful 5-day itinerary in Lisbon that captures the essence of the city without stepping into a museum. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌍✨