Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal on a 2-Day Trip

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a full vacation, or just have a long layover to explore, one thing is for sure – there’s an abundance of things to do in Lisbon Portugal. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, indulge in the finest gourmet experiences, and take in the breathtaking red-roofed views that define this captivating city. From cultural landmarks to vibrant local life, Lisbon Portugal travel promises a rich blend of tradition and modernity. Here’s your perfect guide to discover the best things to do in Lisbon Portugal in just 2 days!

Things to Do in Lisbon Portugal

1. Explore Lisbon on Foot

Walking is undoubtedly one of the best ways to truly experience the essence of Lisbon Portugal travel. Whether you want to burn off those delicious meals from your Lisbon food adventures or simply immerse yourself in the city’s unique charm, walking allows you to uncover its hidden treasures. The quiet alleyways and charming corridors of Lisbon are where the real magic happens. It’s here you’ll witness grandmothers peeking from their windows, watching the world go by, and colorful laundry gently swaying in the breeze.

While there are many beautiful spots across the city, I recommend wandering through the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto. These areas are rich in history and culture, providing a real taste of the local life.

However, if you or anyone in your group has mobility concerns, Lisbon’s hilly streets and sometimes-slippery tiled sidewalks may pose a challenge. In that case, hiring a tuk-tuk is a great alternative to explore the city’s best areas comfortably.

2. Visit Miradouros – Scenic Viewpoints in Lisbon

With its many hills, Lisbon Portugal travel offers no shortage of breathtaking viewpoints, or “Miradouros”, where you can admire the iconic red-roofed skyline. While some of the best views may require a bit of a climb, every neighborhood in Lisbon has its own stunning Miradouro worth visiting. These spots provide the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the beauty of the city from above. My personal favorites include the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for its sweeping views and Miradouro de Santa Catarina for a more laid-back, local vibe.

Each viewpoint tells its own story, offering unique perspectives of the city that will make your Lisbon experience unforgettable.

3. Savor World-Class Gourmet Cuisine in Lisbon

Thanks to its prime location at the crossroads of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, Lisbon Portugal travel is a haven for food lovers. The city boasts an extraordinary blend of flavors, incorporating fresh, high-quality ingredients from around the world into its own distinct and multicultural cuisine. For food enthusiasts, dining out is undeniably one of the best things to do in Lisbon Portugal during a short stay.

Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch or indulging in a Michelin-starred Portuguese gourmet dinner, Lisbon’s culinary scene will surely impress. From seafood dishes bursting with freshness to rich, comforting stews, the city’s food culture offers a taste journey you won’t soon forget. Just don’t forget to bring some stretchy clothes for your flight home!

4. Explore the Iconic Bica Funicular

No trip to Lisbon Portugal travel is complete without seeing the famous Bica Funicular. This bright yellow tram, often featured in classic Lisbon holiday photos, is an essential part of the city’s charm. Originally constructed to help locals navigate the steep hills of the Santa Catarina neighborhood, the Bica Funicular is still widely used by residents today. Over time, it has also become one of the top tourist attractions and is definitely one of the best things to do in Lisbon Portugal during a short visit.

Given its popularity, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit. In the guide, you’ll find its rich history, the best time to visit, directions to its location, and tips on what to expect during your funicular adventure.

5. Visit the Tower of Belém

The Tower of Belém, a local UNESCO World Heritage site, is a majestic, castle-like fortress standing proudly along the banks of the Tagus River. Its historical significance and stunning architecture make it a must-see on any trip to Lisbon. The fortress is easily reachable by public transport, making it one of the best things to do in Lisbon Portugal during a short stay. Plus, if you have the Lisboa Card, you can even enjoy free entry to this iconic landmark, adding to its appeal for those exploring Lisbon Portugal travel.

6. Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

A short 15-minute ride from downtown Lisbon, the Museu Nacional do Azulejo is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by Portugal’s famous decorative tiles. At this museum, you’ll dive into the rich history of tile-making (known as “azulejos” in Portuguese) and marvel at some of the country’s oldest, most beautifully preserved tiles. It’s a unique experience that highlights the artistic side of Lisbon Portugal travel, and is perfect for anyone looking to explore the cultural heritage of Portugal beyond the typical sights.
It’s a great way to escape the heat if you’re looking for an indoor activity in Lisbon. It’s also a fun spot for photos!

7. Ride the Iconic Yellow Tram 28

Taking a ride on the famous Yellow Tram 28 is undeniably one of the best things to do in Lisbon Portugal, especially if you’re visiting for just 2 days. These classic yellow trams are a symbol of the city, and Tram 28 is by far the most popular route, winding through the heart of Lisbon and passing many famous landmarks. The route takes you through the picturesque neighborhood of Alfama, offering a glimpse of the city’s rich history and architecture.

For the best experience, we recommend hopping on early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings, as Tram 28 is often jokingly referred to by locals as the “pickpocket ride.” Another tip: Tram 28 isn’t a loop, so if you stay on for the full journey, you’ll either need to walk to your next destination or take the tram back to where you started.

8. Indulge in a Pasteis de Nata

Is it breakfast? A dessert? Or perhaps a snack for any time of day? Whatever the occasion, trying a Pasteis de Nata is an absolute must during your Lisbon Portugal travel. These delightful custard tarts are famous worldwide, and you’ll encounter bakeries across Lisbon baking them fresh throughout the day. But not all pasteis are made the same! While many bakeries offer this iconic treat, my top recommendation in Lisbon is Manteigaria, where the creamy, perfectly crisp pastries will have you coming back for more.

9. Stroll Along the Riverfront and Enjoy a Drink

While Lisbon may not have beaches right in the city, it boasts a beautiful riverfront perfect for unwinding and escaping the city’s hustle and bustle. One of our favorite spots is the Quiosque Ribeira das Naus, an outdoor lounge with fantastic music and even better views. The vibe here is lively, making it a great place to sip on a drink while soaking in the river’s beauty.

Still craving the beach? Just a 30-minute drive up the coast, you’ll find the charming vacation town of Cascais, home to stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, offering the perfect beach getaway while you’re in Lisbon.

10. Go Shopping in Lisbon

Whether you’re hunting for a keepsake to remember your Lisbon Portugal travel experience or picking up a thoughtful gift for someone back home, Lisbon offers a variety of charming boutique shops. From handcrafted jewelry and beautifully made ceramics to a wide selection of olive oils, sardines, and other delicious local treats, the city’s artisanal shops provide plenty of unique finds. Strolling through these boutiques not only supports local artisans but also gives you a true taste of Lisbon’s creative spirit.

11. Visit the Iconic Praça do Comércio and Arco da Rua Augusta

Situated in the historic Baixa-Chiado district, which was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755, Praça do Comércio is now a modern centerpiece of Lisbon Portugal travel. This grand square is bordered by shops and restaurants on three sides, while the stunning view of the Tagus River lies on the fourth. The square’s expansive, regal atmosphere makes it a must-visit during your time in Lisbon.

One of the most iconic landmarks in this area is the Arco da Rua Augusta, a magnificent arch that stands proudly at the northern end of the square. It’s impossible to miss! After admiring this famous arch, take a stroll down Rua Augusta, one of Lisbon’s busiest and most popular streets. While it may be bustling with tourists, there’s no denying the charm of this pedestrian avenue, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

However, if you’re planning to stop for a meal, I recommend checking out our guide to Lisbon’s best restaurants before choosing a place to dine. The prices on Rua Augusta can be inflated due to its popularity with tourists, and the quality might not always match the cost.

12. Check Out the Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift shares a similar history with the Elevador da Bica, as it was also built in 1902 to help residents in the lower Baixa neighborhood reach the higher Bairro Alto. While riding the lift is a popular activity and one of the best things to do in Lisbon Portugal during a short trip, the lines can get quite long.

Here’s a local tip: You don’t necessarily need to wait in line! Instead, you can enter from the top on the Bairro Alto side by taking Travessa Dom Pedro de Menezes. From there, you’ll walk straight onto the top observation deck, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Lisbon’s rooftops without the hassle of a long wait.

If you’re in the mood for a drink afterwards, head over to Topo Chiado, a nearby rooftop bar with equally stunning views of the Santa Justa Lift and the city. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset in Lisbon, making it a truly relaxing way to cap off your day.

13. Head Out for a Night on the Town

If you’re seeking a vibrant nightlife scene during your Lisbon Portugal travel, you’re in for a treat. Lisbon is known for its lively party atmosphere, and it won’t take long to find a great spot to let loose. The famous Pink Street is the go-to area for nightlife lovers, packed with bars and massive clubs that spill out onto the streets, keeping the energy going until the early hours of the morning.

If you prefer something a bit more laid-back, you can opt for a fun bar crawl through Cais do Sodré or explore the bars in Bairro Alto, where the vibe is lively but not quite as wild. Either way, Lisbon’s nightlife has something to offer for every type of partygoer.

14. Take a Food Tour

If you’re looking to experience the rich and diverse food culture of Lisbon Portugal travel in a more casual and guided way, a food tour is a fantastic option! It’s an excellent opportunity to sample some of the city’s best dishes, without the pressure of choosing individual restaurants. While we didn’t personally join a food tour during our stay in Lisbon, spending a month exploring various restaurants instead, we’ve heard rave reviews about Lisbon’s food tours, especially if you only have a day or two to explore the city.

For a great starting point, Time Out has curated a list of 10 different food tours in Lisbon that are definitely worth checking out!

15. Check Out the Pink Street

An absolute Instagram hotspot, Pink Street is one of those places where it’s hard to resist snapping a photo! Interestingly, this colorful street was once part of Lisbon’s red-light district, where sailors, criminals, and prostitutes used to gather. In 2011, as part of an effort to clean up and revitalize the area, the city decided to paint the street pink, a bold and creative move that transformed this part of town.

The campaign was a huge success, and today, Pink Street is home to some of Lisbon’s liveliest nightlife, with former brothels converted into wild clubs (as mentioned in the nightlife section above). It’s a vibrant place to visit, especially after dark.

If you’re planning to grab a photo here for your Instagram feed, there’s no need to arrive too early in the morning. The street doesn’t get too busy until later in the day, and it’s worth waiting for the daily street cleaners to tidy up after the previous night’s fun.

16. Visit Time Out Market

Lisbon is famous for its fine dining experiences, and while we highly recommend exploring some of the city’s top restaurants, visiting Time Out Market offers a unique culinary adventure that should be on everyone’s Lisbon list! Essentially, it’s a high-end food court where many of Lisbon’s Michelin-level restaurants have set up booths. This allows you to sample their culinary creations in a casual setting without the hefty price tag. It’s a fantastic opportunity to indulge in world-class dishes without the need for formal dining.

17. Visit LX Factory

LX Factory is a former industrial complex that has been transformed into one of Lisbon’s most vibrant creative, cultural, and gastronomic hubs. This repurposed space is filled with artisan shops, quirky cafes, unique food stalls, and inspiring art studios. It’s a must-visit spot where you can easily spend a few hours wandering from shop to shop, discovering one-of-a-kind creations. For us, it was one of our favorite experiences in Lisbon, and it’s a great way to connect with the city’s artistic and local scene.

18. Take a Day Trip to Sintra

While this one technically isn’t in Lisbon, it’s the perfect excursion from the city! If you’re spending a few days in Lisbon Portugal travel, make sure to set aside one day for a trip to Sintra, a medieval castle lover’s dream. This enchanting town is packed with stunning palaces, lush gardens, and historic castles that look like they belong in a fairy tale. Just a short train ride away from Lisbon, it’s the ideal day trip to escape the city and dive into the rich history and beauty of Portugal’s royal past.