Known as the "city of seven hills", Lisbon is a colorful and atmospheric city. A verdant, sun-drenched capital, it stands apart from the big cities as we know them. To the sound of the fado, it's great to stroll through the colorful streets of this city of 1001 colors, often offering breathtaking views. Your stay invites you to explore its narrow streets, discover the nightlife of Bairro Alto and savor the local gastronomy under the sun. So, what to do on a 3-day weekend in Lisbon? Whether you're traveling for the summer or the winter, your stay in Lisbon is sure to be a sunny one, and you won 't even need to take a plane!
Day 1: Baixa and Alfama districts
Your 3-day weekend in Lisbon begins with three emblematic districts. A whole host of pleasant surprises await you in one of the world's most beautiful capitals, a must-see at least once in your life!
Morning: Baixa district
The Baixa district is a dynamic, modern center, efficiently served by public transport. An ideal starting point for discovering Lisbon! In the heart of this emblematic district, discover the Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon's must-see squares. Its impressive triumphal arch symbolizes the rebirth of the city. From here, take Augusta pedestrian street, linking the Praça do Comércio to Rossio Square. You're in the heart of a lively thoroughfare, packed with stores, terraces and street artists. Your escapade takes you to the Santa Justa Elevator, dating from 1902. Take the time to try it out: it offers a superb panoramic view of the Tagus, Baixa and St. George's Castle from its observation platform!
Good to know: the Elevador de Santa Justa is often overcrowded, so it's best to get there as early as possible. Access is free with the Lisbon Card, which you can purchase right here which gives you free, unlimited access to public transport, free admission to 39 museums and historic buildings, and discounts at many sites.
Afternoon: The Alfama district, Tram28 and Bairro Alto
Your 3-day weekend in Lisbon continues in the Alfama district, just a 15-minute walk from Baixa. The perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a digestive stroll. Or book a guided tour of Lisbon's history and neighborhoods (Chiado, Bairro Alto, Alfama). Alfama is Lisbon's historic district, imbued with an authentic, typical Portuguese atmosphere. On foot, its narrow, winding streets reveal their history, guided by local colors and smells. The Lisbon of yesteryear awaits you! Do you like pretty views? Insta'Time! Superb views of the city and its surroundings await you, a well-deserved reward for your climb (yes, it climbs "a little" in Portugal...). Among the must-see viewpoints, we particularly recommend Senhora do Monte, the highest of them all. The Portas do Sol offers an exceptional view of the São Vicente de Fora monastery.
Fun fact: a yellow streetcar, the Tram 28, runs through this district of Lisbon. A must-see at least once!
In the evening, head for Bairro Alto, the city's bohemian and festive district. Ideal if you're visiting Lisbon for a weekend with friends! Located high up in the city, it can be reached via the Bica funicular. This temple of street art is revealed in all its splendor, before setting off to discover the "Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara". All that's left to do is enjoy its bars and other festive venues!
Day 2: The Belém district
Another day, another district, but not the least. If Lisbon is one of the 20 most beautiful cities in the world, it's not least for its Belém district. It deserves at least half a day, if not a whole day.
Morning: Tower and Monument
Your second morning begins in Belém, whose castle is one of the most beautiful palaces in the world to visit. The parish church of Santa Maria de Belém is one of the heritage treasures on offer. The Tower of Belém, built in the 16th century to protect the port, offers a panoramic view from its 30-metre height. It's undoubtedly one of Lisbon's most important buildings, and a must-see during this 3-day weekend.
After your visit, take a 10-minute walk to the Monument aux Découvertes. Erected in 1960 as a tribute to Henry the Navigator, it is adorned with superb sculptures representing the Portuguese navigators of the Great Discoveries.
Your leisurely morning ends in a fine local restaurant. Don't hesitate to try some of Lisbon's or Portugal's specialties, such as Bacalhau, Bifanas or Polvo à lagareiro for octopus lovers. Your taste buds will also be delighted by the delicious pasteis de Belém, Lisbon's typical cream pastries. A good address for this is Pasteis de Belém (quite simply).
Don't stray too far, as the afternoon visit is in the same area as the morning.
Afternoon: The Hieronymites Monastery
To visit the Monastery of the Hieronymites - Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - allow between 2 and 3 hours, and remember to book your entrance ticket in advance right here. The afternoon won't be too much! Built in the XVIᵉ century in the parish of Belém, it celebrates the return of navigator Vasco de Gama after his voyage to India. Its Portuguese Manueline Gothic style is a marvel! As proof, it is one of Lisbon's most visited monuments. Considered a masterpiece of Portuguese architecture, it houses the tombs of such illustrious figures as Vasco da Gama himself, as well as Luís de Camões. Although it took over 100 years to build this architectural marvel, the result is superb!
Evening arrives quietly at the end of the second day, at the heart of your 3-day weekend in Lisbon. What better way to make the most of this balmy evening than toattend a fado concert? There are some great places to do just that:
- Povo Lisboa,
- Tasca do Chico,
- Casa de Linhares,
- Fado in Chiado. This is one of the best-known: take advantage of our partner's special rates by booking your place right here!
The list goes on: treat yourself!
Day 3: São Jorge Castle and view from the April 25th Bridge
You've been admiring it since you arrived, and now it's time for a visit! We call it: Sao Jorge Castle. As a bonus, you'll get one of the best views of the city before you leave.
Morning: São Jorge Castle
Back to the Alfama district, to admire one of the city's most beautiful treasures. São Jorge Castle is accessible by the famous yellow Tram 28. Allow around two hours for the visit.
In the heart of Lisbon's historic citadel, you can step back in time to the 1st century BC. In those days, it was a royal palace. Today, the building remains superb, with the ramparts offering exceptional panoramic views of the Tagus and the Baixa district. In and around the castle, many surprises await you. The archaeological site, for example, reveals three historical periods, providing a better understanding of the construction and history of the site. If you'd like to get to the castle, one of Lisbon's most popular attractions, without too much delay, we recommend you book your ticket here .
We also invite you to visit the museum center, whose exhibits come directly from the archaeological dig site. Last but not least, the Ulysses Tower, named after the Greek hero, has a rich history as well as a beautiful view. Got a little time left? Discover the well-restored Santa Cruz church. Around the castle, stroll through a beautiful garden, before enjoying a variety of restaurants and stores. In short: a beautiful morning, followed by an excellent Lisbon meal!
Afternoon: April 25th Bridge
A little way from the center of Lisbon, head for the April 25th Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Europe. It has two levels: one for cars and the other, added in 1999, for trains. As impressive as it is unusual! Built in 1966 and renamed after the Carnation Revolution, it is reminiscent of San Francisco's Golden Gate. Since you still have a whole afternoon ahead of you, we suggest 3 ways to discover it.
Let's start withExperiência Pilar 7, an immersive, interactive tour you can book here , offering spectacular views from a glass platform. For its part, LX Factory plunges you into the heart of a creative urban village, overlooking the bowels of the bridge. Finally, you can discover the bridge from Almada, a municipality to the south of Lisbon. From the terrace of a seafood restaurant, you can enjoy an exceptional view of the bridge, of course, but also of the superb replica of the Brazilian Christ the Redeemer.
Where to stay in Lisbon for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Easily accessible from France by air, Lisbon is the perfect place to spend a cheap 3-day weekend. The best place to stay is in the Baixa Chiado district. Situated between the Alfama and Bairro Alto districts, you'll be close to all the points of interest, yet far from the noisy party zones.
- The most prestigious
In the heart of Lisbon lies the 1908 Lisboa Hotel, a 4-star establishment nestled in a renovated historic building dating back to 1908, which you can book right here. Ideally located, the hotel boasts a dynamic art gallery and an upscale restaurant. One of Lisbon's finest addresses!
- Modernity in the heart of the city
Do you like the bustle of the city center, with its shops and lively venues? Then head for the Hotel Santa Justa, located right next to the famous Santa Justa Elevator. Its ultra-modern interior offers every comfort for your 3-day weekend in Lisbon. Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks!
- Beautiful views and modern comforts
Hotel Mundial offers much more than just rooms. Here, everything has been designed with travelers in mind. The rooftop terrace offers a superb view of the city, as you sip a drink after a day's sightseeing. The garden offers a welcome oasis of greenery in the city. Finally, air-conditioning and, in some cases, balconies are available in our comfortable rooms. Tempted? Take advantage of our partner's rates by booking your room right here !
Tip: when you travel in September, you'll enjoy summer temperatures, without fear of tourist overload!
Come and enjoy the mild Indian summer in Portugal's capital! An ideal city for expatriates, Lisbon is sure to attract and seduce. Whatever the season, it's the perfect place to spend a 2 or 3-day weekend! Planning to travel in November? A good idea, as temperatures will be much milder than in France. The icing on the cake: the city is one of the best destinations for an EVG. So let's hear it!
Want to find out more? Discover the 19 must-do things to do in Lisbon over a 3-day weekend. For a longer stay, these 25 must-dos in Portugal will guide you to the country's finest treasures.
