Lisbon lies on seven hills above the mouth of the Tagus. Yellow trams squeal through narrow lanes, façades covered in colourful tiles glow in the sun, and from countless viewpoints you look out over red roofs to the river. The city is relaxed, comparatively cheap and quick to reach, at around three hours’ flight. Three days are enough for a good first impression.
Day 1: Alfama, the castle and Baixa
Start in the oldest district, the Alfama. The lanes are so winding that getting lost is part of the fun. Above it towers the Castelo de São Jorge, from whose walls you can see the whole city. Close by are the viewpoints Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol.
In the afternoon, head down into the Baixa, the lower town with its straight streets. It was rebuilt after the great earthquake of 1755. Through the triumphal arch on Rua Augusta you reach the Praça do Comércio right by the river. In the evening, listen to fado, Lisbon’s melancholy music, in a small venue in the Alfama or Mouraria.
Day 2: Belém and the banks of the Tagus
The district of Belém lies a few kilometres west along the river. Here stand the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of the age of discovery, and the Belém Tower. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Try a pastel de nata there, the famous custard tart, ideally still warm with cinnamon.
Back in the city, spend the evening in the Bairro Alto. The district is quiet during the day, but at night the lanes fill with people. Nearby, the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara offers one of the most beautiful views at sunset.
Day 3: Sintra or the coast
By train you reach Sintra in about 40 minutes. In the green hills there are colourful palaces, a Moorish castle and enchanted gardens. Start early, as it gets crowded by midday. If you would rather go to the sea, take the train along the river to Cascais, a former fishing village with beaches and a promenade.
Getting around the city
Lisbon is hilly, and the pavements made of pale limestone get slippery when wet. Comfortable shoes with a good grip are important. The metro, trams, buses and old funiculars take you almost everywhere. A rechargeable travel card, or a city card with free transport and museum discounts, is worthwhile if you get around a lot.
Eating in Lisbon
People eat a lot of fish: grilled sardines, salt cod in many variations, mussels and seafood. Small restaurants with a dish of the day are often cheap and very good. Note: bread, olives and cheese brought to the table without asking are charged if you eat them. Simply send them back if you do not want any.
In short
- Best time: March to June and September to October.
- Getting there: about three hours’ flight, metro straight from the airport.
- Shoes: non-slip and comfortable, as the city is steep.
- How long: three days for the city, four with time for Sintra.
flug-123.de editorial team, updated 10 November 2026. We review our guides regularly. Rules can change. If in doubt, the details in your booking apply.
