Trip itinerary: 2 days in Lisbon
Lisbon is a place of many charms that could take days, weeks, even months to be fully and thoroughly explored! Still, not everyone has this amount of time to explore the Portuguese capital city. If this is you, don’t worry about it: our itinerary for 2 days in Lisbon will show you that it is possible to discover the most important places in the city, in a short amount of time.
Day 1
São Jorge’s Castle
Start your journey through Lisbon at São Jorge’s Castle, a mandatory stop. To get there you can use the Lift at Madalena’s Street or, if you are feeling brave, you can walk the steep hill of the Castle.
São Jorge’s Castle is located on the top of the highest hill of Lisbon’s historical center, offering a privileged view over Lisbon and the Tagus river estuary. In order to avoid long lines (that usually form around the Castle), be sure to buy your priority ticket online.
Alfama
Near São Jorge’s Castle, you can walk the streets of Alfama, one of the most typical Lisbon neighborhoods. Enjoy the architecture of typical Lisbon houses and listen carefully to the fado that is sung in some streets and cafes. In Alfama, you can also visit the National Pantheon, where some illustrious Portuguese figures are buried, the Portas do Sol viewpoint, the Santa Luzia viewpoint and the famous Feira da Ladra.
Lisbon’s Cathedral
Lisbon’s Cathedral is the catholic ex-libris of the city and one of the most popular starting points for the Caminho Português de Santiago. In 1755 this cathedral was destroyed during the Lisbon earthquake, being eventually rebuilt in a more baroque style. Despite this, during the 20th century, its medieval architectural traits were made more prominent during a new intervention.
Praça do Comércio
This is one of Europe’s most majestic plazas and the central point of the rebuilding of the Baixa Pombalina, after the 1755 earthquake.
The plaza is quite big, and it offers a privileged view over the Tagus river. Right in the middle, you can find the statue of King José I of Portugal. In the yellow walls surrounding the plaza are several governmental departments and offices. Right in the middle there is the famous Archway of Augusta Street.
Sodré Pier
Finish off your first day at Cais do Sodré (pier), where you can go to Time Out Market for a nice dinner and a drink over at Cor de Rosa Street, one of the trendiest places in Lisbon, in terms of night life.
Day 2
Belém Tower
The second of these 2 days in Lisbon itinerary will be centered around the Belém district. If you are staying overnight closest to downtown Lisbon, you might want to rent a car with Enterprise, in order to have an easier trip over to Belém. You can find us at Enterprise Alfragide, Prior Velho and Álvares Cabral.
Visiting the historical Belém district is mandatory in any trip to Lisbon and the Tower is one of the most iconic spots in the city. Built in Manueline style, the medieval tower has incredible views of the Tagus River and is a mandatory stopping point in your itinerary.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of Discoveries)
This monument was built as a tribute to Infante D. Henrique, the man who propelled the Portuguese Discoveries. Spend some time observing this work and try to discover all the details.
In front of the Padrão, you will find an incredible example of the Portuguese sidewalk, the Rosa dos Ventos (compass card) full of details that impress all those who have the privilege to "step on" it.
Jerónimos Monastery
Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, the Jerónimos Monastery is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Belém area. Its Portuguese gothic style evokes the grandeur of Portugal in the 16th century.
The Jerónimos Monastery is the most visited monument in Lisbon, so get ready to face long queues. However, we guarantee that the interior of this monument is worth all the waiting you must face.
Pastel de Belém
Although not a monument, this typical Portuguese dessert also deserves a mandatory stop. As in the Monastery, get ready for a long queue at the pastry shop that sells the original delicacy. Treat yourself to this custard eggy tart, wrapped in puff pastry, and don't forget to put cinnamon and powdered sugar on top.
MAAT
The last stop of these 2 days in Lisbon itinerary is dedicated to modern art. For lovers of architecture, art and technology, MAAT is a mandatory visit. The building that houses the works of art is object of appreciation for visitors due to its undulating lines.
2 days in Lisbon: you’ll want to come back
It’s impossible to explore and enjoy all that Lisbon has to offer in just two days. For another visit are other museums, other streets, other viewpoints and more sightseeing.
In the meantime, if you want to make your trip to the Portuguese capital easier, discover the rent-a-car solutions that Enterprise has to offer. Prioritize comfort and safety and travel in Lisbon with one of our cars!