The coastal capital of Portugal, Lisbon, is in focus today. We suggest the final one day in Lisbon itinerary to you as it incorporates not only the burning highlights but also the hidden gems that Lisbon has in store for you.
Want to know more about the city? Read our other blogs listed here, 48 Hours in Lisbon, Where to Stay in Lisbon, and Best Day Trips from Lisbon. Now back to the topic, let’s figure out what can be done in one day in Lisbon.
One Day in Lisbon Itinerary
No more procrastination, we get straight to the point, best tips for traveling to Lisbon. The central region of Portugal’s capital is ideal for exploring on foot. Checking in the morning and after the lunch hour guarantees incredible photo ops during the golden hour. But starting with a hurry, we need to take Lisbon in one day. This itinerary is dedicated to people who want to squeeze everything that Portugal offers in a single day.
The first burning question that needs to be answered is, can you see Lisbon in just one day? It is certainly much tougher compared to a city like Porto. However, we Lisboa lovers can assure you that it is possible to soak in the city’s scenic views and top attractions in one robust 24 hour visit. In our view, there are some routes that need to be taken.
Morning
Belem Tower
On your first day in Lisbon, begin with witnessing the sunrise at Belem Tower. You may go inside Belem Tower, but it opens at 10 a.m., so you have to deal with the crowds. This is one of Portugal’s seven wonders and a UNESCO world heritage site and, if you go at sunrise, you will only meet some photographers who will be capturing the stunning monument.
This stunning tower sits right on the Tagus River. The tower was constructed in 1515 in order to help defend Lisbon from intruders looking to invade via the Tagus River.
Monument of Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)
While returning from Belem Tower, you can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront promenade towards the monument of discoveries. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a monument that commemorates the explorers of Portugal and marks the period when Portugal was filled with explorers. The gigantic monument sitting overlooking the Tagus river is surely not something you can miss.
The Building’s height is 52 Meters and sits on the Tagus River and the view is undoubtedly gorgeous no matter which angle you look at. For just a few dollars, you can access an elevator that allows you to overlook the mesmerizing views of Tagus River, but if you prefer a more physically challenging alternative, you can walk upstairs via the stairs. Although the building opens at 10 a.m, you can always capture the marvelous view surrounding the city.
Feel free to admire Portugal’s landmark Monument of Discoveries, along while capturing The South African stunning Rose Compass designed in honor of Portugal’s voyages in the centuries 15th and 16th. You will find among the design, a mermaid, Neptune, compass roses and the faces of the wind.
If you truly desire a breathtaking view of Tagus, you could return to grab the elevator directly after visiting our next Lisbon attraction.
Jerónimos Monastery
Jerónimos Monastery is worth visiting for its historical and architectural significance as it is situated on your way up from the waterfront. It is also the first place I recommend you try to go inside. Ensure to book your time entry ticket for the first entry of the day. It would be ideal to enter Jerónimos Monastery after which opens at 10am, following your visit to Belem Tower and Padrão dos Descobrimentos.
As a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and one of Portugal’s seven wonders, Jerónimos Monastery is a splendid example of Maximilian architecture. Forward eyes for its incredible marble facade. You will be interested in locating the cloisters alongside the courtyards and gardens which are considered chapels. In the intersecting section, you can find Vasco da Gama’s tomb as well. Vasco is famous for being the first em European to make it differ ship to India.
We recommend reserving an hour here to enjoy the view and then be on your way. Because do not forget, you only have one day in Lisbon, and once you get back home, everyone will be looking forward to hearing how much you managed to cover and will start asking you questions like, Did you see this, Did you see that, and in response you can say, Yes, I did.
And all this can be done by simply upgrading to a Lisbon Card that offers free access to public transportation as well as entry to major landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and many more.
Pasteis de Bélem
Hop on the tram to Placa Do Comercio (the square that is on the water) from Belem and enjoy Lisbon’s trams. This gives you one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon – riding the iconic trams – while on your journey back to the old part of the city.
You can book an Uber like we did. If you are booking Uber, please make sure it drops you at the Time Out Market where you will be having lunch. For those of you taking the tram, the Time Out Market is a twenty-minute stroll from Comercio Square. Prior to heading to the market, you can explore the beautiful square and Rua Agusta Arch.
Rua Augusta
You can take the tram back to Placa Do Comercio (the main square located on the waterfront) from Belem and ride one of Lisbon’s historic trams while you make your way to its beautiful waterfront square. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy one of Lisbon’s top attractions – riding its iconic trams – while you make your way back to the old city.
You can hire an Uber, like we did. If you hire an Uber, have it drop you off at the Time Out Market, where you will be having lunch. If you take the tram, the Time Out Market is just a 15-minute walk from Comercio Square. Before you make your way to the market, you can check out the beautiful square and Rua Agusta Arch
Rua Agusta
From Comercio Square make your way to Rua Augusta Arch in the direction of the pedestrian zone Rua Augusta. Augusta is a pedestrian street spanning six blocks lined with shops, restaurants and vibrant street performers who provide entertainment to patrons during their lunch break.
You can easily find street side tables and chairs as well as fast food joints that offer delicious Portuguese foods. The street is very scenic so enjoying the view and the food makes it a place not to miss when visiting downtown. Walk along the street and get a view of Bacalao, Pasteis de Nata, and the Portuguese Cans stores.
Afternoon
Alfama District
The Alfama District represents the oldest part of the city and also is a great place to enjoy the rest of the afternoon. If you prefer strolling, it is only a five to ten minute walk from Rua Augusta to the starting point of the walking tour of Alfama. Here indeed, you will feel the history of Lisbon while roaming its narrow streets.
Lisbon Cathedral
You should begin with considering going to Alfama starting with Lisbon Cathedral. This is the oldest church of the city built in the 12th century. You may enter the building at no charge, but it charges a small fee of around €2 to see its cloisters.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Next on the list is Porta do Sol, which is a short uphill walk. One of the most popular Miradouros in Lisbon, known for its overlooking view of the river and city. The other thing that you can admire from this spot is the terracotta rooftops which gives the impression that you are hovering over a Mediterranean village which peacefully spills into the sea.
It is located on a large balcony, offering ample space to enjoy the panoramic view. Monastery of St.Vincent and the National Pantheon are some of the things to keep an eye out.
Tram 28
Tram 28 is a must see attraction in Lisbon and can be accessed from Portas do Sol. Tram 28 is without a doubt one of the most recognizable and important forms of public transportation in Lisbon. In 1914, Tram 28 was introduced as a replacement for horse-drawn carriages. The Trams are quite useful for transportation as they help locals navigate through the cities steep and challenging hills. Tram 28 offers a total length of 7 kilometers and connects many of the key attractions and tourist locations in Lisbon which include Graca, Alfama, Baixa, Santa Catarina, Estrela and Chiado.
The duration for the full ride is approximately 50 minutes, however, it is recommended to use the tram as a means of public transportation rather than for sightseeing. For a quicker alternative, Uber is an option for those looking to travel short distances. The tram service operates till 10 or 11 pm, depending on the time of year.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
After visiting Portas do Sol, Tram 28 will take you to Miradouro da Senhora cape Monte alongside the Monastery of St. George. You can either get inside or enjoy the view, either way make sure to look forward to the next stop – Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Since time is of the essence, you can skip the St. George the Miradouro-Sanctuary.
This is Lisbon’s highest point of city view and enjoys an overhead view of the city.
Castle of St. George
St. George’s Castle can be seen from afar and its ancient walls are worthy of the walk. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city while taking a stroll on St. George’s castle ramparts. Locals recommend visiting during the summer, since it overlooks the city until 9 pm. That time is even better during sundown.
Visitors are welcome to access its lush gardens and join guided tours. Don’t forget to also check out the free-access museum located in the castle. As expected, the castle walls offer breathtaking views of the city. It goes without saying that the site commands attention – with settlements that date as far back as the 7th century BC, it is popular with history buffs.
Evening/Dinner
To conclude your one-day itinerary in Lisbon, head to Bairro Alto. This is arguably the most lively place in Lisbon, and has multiple options for dinner in Bairro Alto. We enjoyed Gin Lover’s Bar in Barrio Alto. Here, we started our night with cocktails and later relished a delightful dinner on the terrace.
Nightlife
After dinner, you have various options. You can either go out to the bars and experience the nightlife in Bairro Alto, browse the bars for a Fado performance, or do both. If you really want to watch a Fado performance live, we recommend booking a set performance in advance here. This tour is highly recommended.
Well, that was a busy day in Lisbon, Portugal! From astonishing landmarks to colorful and vibrant neighborhoods, and beautiful views from the Miradouros, we have shown you how to spend the day AND night in this beautiful city. In case you are spending more days in Lisbon, do check out our post 48 Hours in Lisbon, Itinerary. The Best Things to Do in Lisbon Check out our blog for more top sights, the best places to eat, and the most convenient ways to get around Lisbon.
