Bem-vindo a Lisboa! Welcome to Portugal's sunlit capital, where cobbled alleys wind past pastel buildings, yellow trams rattle through centuries-old neighborhoods, and the scent of grilled sardines fills the air. Lisbon is soulful, scenic, and effortlessly stylish.

I took a one-week holiday at the beginning of June to visit Portugal from Ankara, Turkey. I spent 3 nights each in Lisbon and Porto. It was before the peak of the traveling season, which is between July and September; therefore, I could easily find accommodations and places to eat and see without lining up a long queue.

Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, is a city of seven hills, pastel-colored buildings, and soulful Fado music. Its cobbled streets lead to ancient castles, vibrant markets, and riverside viewpoints. In just three days, you’ll taste custard tarts, ride vintage trams, and soak in the city’s easygoing charm.

⏳ Is 3 Days Enough in Lisbon?

Absolutely. In 72 hours, you can explore Lisbon's historic core, iconic landmarks in Belém, and venture to Sintra or Cascais for a magical escape. With this well-paced itinerary, you’ll experience local life, world heritage sites, and unforgettable flavors.

📶 Best Options for Internet in Lisbon 📱 1. Airalo eSIM – Fast, Easy & No-SIM-Swapping

👉 Get your Portugal eSIM via Airalo

👉 Get your Portugal eSIM via Airalo

If you want instant data access as soon as your plane touches down in Lisbon Airport (LIS), an eSIM is the fastest and most convenient option.

Why Airalo is Perfect for Lisbon:

1. 🔹 Buy your Portugal eSIM online before your trip
2. 🔹 Activate instantly—no store visits, no need to speak Portuguese
3. 🔹 Great for short stays and spontaneous travelers
4. 🔹 Plans available for 7, 15, or 30 days
5. 🔹 Connects to major Portuguese networks like MEO or NOS

💡 Pro Tip: Make sure your smartphone is unlocked and supports eSIM (most iPhones and newer Android models do).

📱 2. Local SIM Card – Affordable and Reliable

Buying a physical SIM card in Lisbon is a tried-and-true method for travelers who prefer traditional setups or need more data for longer stays.

📍 Where to Buy a SIM Card in Lisbon:

1. 🛬 Lisbon Airport (LIS):
   1. Look for telecom kiosks right after baggage claim
   2. SIM cards with tourist data plans are available from vending machines too
2. 🏙️ Mobile Shops in the City:
   1. MEO, Vodafone, and NOS stores can be found in Baixa, Chiado, or shopping centers like Colombo and Vasco da Gama
3. 🏪 Electronics & Convenience Stores:
   1. Worten and FNAC also sell prepaid SIMs

🔝 Top Mobile Providers in Portugal:

1. MEO (Altice Portugal)
   1. Strongest nationwide coverage
   2. Offers prepaid tourist plans with data + calls
2. Vodafone Portugal
   1. Excellent 4G and 5G in Lisbon and urban areas
   2. Offers Vodafone Tourist SIM with generous data (e.g., 10–30 GB)
3. NOS
   1. Competitive pricing and solid network quality
   2. Good for travelers on a budget or staying longer

What You’ll Need:

1. 🛂 Passport for registration
2. ⚙️ Your phone must be unlocked and GSM-compatible
3. 💰 Plans typically cost €10–€30, depending on data and validity

💼 BONUS: Pocket WiFi – Great for Groups or Business Travelers

If you’re traveling with others, renting a Pocket WiFi router can be more cost-effective.

1. 🌐 Connect 5–10 devices simultaneously
2. 📦 Reserve online and pick up at Lisbon Airport or have it delivered to your hotel
3. 🔋 Works all over Portugal, including day trips to Cascais or Porto

Popular Providers:

1. My Webspot Portugal – Unlimited 4G/LTE, delivery or pickup options
2. Travel WiFi Portugal – Offers flexible rental duration, works EU-wide
3. Klook Pocket WiFi – Easy booking with international traveler support

📆 Best Time to Visit Lisbon

1. Spring (Mar–May): Jacarandas in bloom, outdoor festivals, mild weather
2. Fall (Sep–Oct): Warm, sunny days with fewer tourists
3. Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and lively, ideal for beachgoers and nightlife
4. Winter (Nov–Feb): Quiet streets, lower prices, mild temps

💡 Pro Tip: June offers perfect weather just before peak-season crowds arrive.

✈️ Getting to Lisbon City Center from the Airport

After a smooth 5-hour direct flight from Ankara, I landed at Porto Airport just before 10 PM. Like most travelers, I found myself in one of two queues—either the long line for official taxis or the pick-up zone for ride-hailing services like Bolt.

I opted for Bolt, but due to a miscommunication with the driver, I eventually had to switch to a traditional taxi. The ride to the city center cost €25—nearly twice the price of Bolt. To my surprise, the taxi only accepted cash, a detail that caught me off guard.

1. Metro (Red Line): Connects to city center via Alameda (Green/Blue line); ~30 mins
2. Aerobus: Direct shuttle to main hotels and squares
3. Taxi / Uber / Bolt: €12–€25, 15–25 mins depending on traffic

💡 Travel Tip: Some taxis and smaller shops only accept cash. Keep euros handy!

🛏️ Top Places to Stay in Lisbon ✅ Must-Do Activities in Lisbon 🚇 Getting Around Lisbon

1. Lisboa Card: Includes unlimited public transport + free/discounted admission to 30+ attractions
2. Tram 28: Iconic wooden tram that climbs through Alfama & Graça
3. Walking: Great for historic neighborhoods—but wear good shoes!
4. Tuk-tuks: Convenient and fun for tackling steep hills
5. Trains: Connect easily to Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril

🛬 Day 1: Castles, Tiles & Alfama Charm

1. 🎨 National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

   The National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) offers a stunning journey through centuries of Portuguese ceramic art. Its vast collection showcases traditional azulejos—those iconic blue-and-white tiles—with detailed exhibits in both English and Portuguese, making it easy to appreciate the cultural significance behind each piece.

   One of the most impressive features is the museum’s chapel, a breathtaking Baroque space richly adorned with gold and tilework. It’s undoubtedly the highlight of the visit.

   1. Hours: 10:00–18:00
   2. Ticket: €10
   3. Tip: Take a taxi or bus; it’s a 30-minute walk from the center
   4. Don’t Miss: The Baroque Chapel of St. Anthony

   📍 While the museum is slightly off the typical tourist path—about a 30-minute walk or a 20-minute bus ride from Lisbon’s city center—it’s well worth the detour. The peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds make for a much more intimate experience.

2. 🏛️ St. George’s Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)

   For a peaceful experience and postcard-worthy photos, aim to visit Castelo de São Jorge early in the morning—before the tour groups arrive. The panoramic view over Lisbon’s red rooftops and the Tagus River is especially magical at sunrise.

   Inside the castle grounds, you’ll find impressive historical exhibitions, including artifacts from archaeological excavations, ancient relics, and interactive displays that offer rich insight into Lisbon’s medieval and Moorish past.

   1. Hours: 9:00–21:00 (summer), until 18:00 (winter)
   2. Ticket: €15
   3. Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and catch panoramic photos

   🛍️ After exploring the castle, take time to wander through the nearby streets. You’ll find a mix of souvenir shops, local artisan stalls, and even a few boutique designer stores—perfect for picking up something unique to remember your trip.

3. 🏛️ Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio)

   Located at the edge of the Tagus River, Praça do Comércio is one of Lisbon’s most iconic and vibrant public squares. It’s a perfect meeting point, whether you're planning a walking tour, grabbing a coffee, or simply soaking in the city vibe.

   With its grand yellow arcades, open space, and riverside location, the square is ideal for relaxing at a nearby café, people-watching, or enjoying the energy of street performers, who often fill the area with live music and entertainment.

   1. Tip: Climb the Rua Augusta Arch for skyline views
   2. Optional: Join a sunset cruise departing nearby

   📍 Centrally located in Baixa, you’ll likely pass through this square multiple times during your stay, as it connects many of Lisbon’s main attractions, shopping streets, and transportation hubs.

🎨 Day 2: Creative Quarters & Culinary Delights

1. 🧶 LX Factory

   Once an industrial complex, LX Factory has been transformed into one of Lisbon’s most vibrant and artistic districts. This creative space is packed with independent shops, selling everything from handmade accessories and vintage finds to quirky souvenirs and art prints. Don’t miss the iconic Ler Devagar bookstore—a beautifully designed space that's a paradise for book lovers and Instagrammers alike.

   🍽️ When it comes to food and drinks, LX Factory offers a wide range of options, from cozy Portuguese eateries to trendy international fusion restaurants and craft beer bars. While the vibe is hip and eclectic, keep in mind that menu prices tend to be higher than those at more traditional local spots in town.

   1. Street art, indie shops, rooftop bars
   2. Best Day: Sunday for the weekly flea market
   3. Bookstore Highlight: Ler Devagar

   📍 Easily accessible by tram or bus, LX Factory is perfect for an afternoon of browsing, dining, and relaxing in a truly creative Lisbon atmosphere.

2. 🍔 Time Out Market

   Located in the historic Mercado da Ribeira building in Cais do Sodré, Time Out Market is a must-visit for food lovers. This bustling gourmet hall brings together some of Lisbon’s top chefs, restaurants, and local food vendors, offering a curated taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene—all in one lively space.

   From Michelin-star bites and traditional bacalhau dishes to Asian fusion, vegan options, and mouthwatering Portuguese desserts, there's something here for every craving. It’s also a great place to sample local wines, sip on craft cocktails, or relax with a cold Super Bock beer at the communal seating areas.

   1. Tip: Arrive before 7 PM to beat the dinner rush
   2. Try: Bifana sandwich, bacalhau, and pastel de nata

   🛍️ Beyond the food, you’ll find a few stalls selling artisan products and gourmet souvenirs. Keep in mind that prices at Time Out Market are higher than average, but the quality, variety, and experience are well worth it.

   📍 Centrally located and easily accessible by metro or tram, Time Out Market is perfect for a casual lunch, foodie night out, or a quick bite between sightseeing stops.

🏞️ Day 3: Belém’s History & a Sweet Farewell

1. ⛪ Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

   A true masterpiece of Portuguese Manueline architecture, Jerónimos Monastery in Belém has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 and is widely recommended as a must-visit landmark in Lisbon. Its intricate stonework, cloisters, and historic significance certainly impress—but there are a few things to consider before going.

   🎟️ I booked an online ticket and arrived around 10:30 AM, hoping to skip the queue. Unfortunately, even with a timed entry, I was asked to join the same long line as everyone else. The wait under the sun took nearly an hour, which was frustrating and unexpected.

   While the architecture and interior details are undoubtedly beautiful, I found the lack of written explanations or context inside the monastery disappointing. For a monument of such cultural weight, more interpretive signage would have greatly enhanced the experience.

   1. Hours: 10:00–18:30 (May–Sep), until 17:30 (Oct–Apr)
   2. Ticket: €18 (free with Lisbon Card)

   💡 Travel Tip: You can visit the attached church, Igreja de Santa Maria, for free—and it shares many of the monastery’s architectural highlights. In hindsight, I felt the free section might have been sufficient for a brief visit.

2. 🌿 Padrão dos Descobrimentos

   Just a 5-minute walk from Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) is a natural next stop and a highlight on any Belém itinerary. Built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Prince Henry the Navigator’s death, this striking riverside structure celebrates Portugal’s Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries.

   Standing proudly on the banks of the Tagus River, the monument features a dramatic sculptural composition of 32 historical figures, including legendary explorers like Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral, and cartographers, scientists, and patrons who helped shape Portugal’s maritime legacy.

   1. Ticket: €8 (included in Lisbon Card)
   2. Tip: Visit at golden hour for epic sunset shots

   ⛵ The design is both awe-inspiring and symbolic, reminding visitors of the bold spirit that once led Portuguese ships to chart unknown parts of the world. You can also take an elevator to the viewing platform at the top for panoramic views over Belém, the river, and the nearby 25 de Abril Bridge.

3. 🗳️ Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

   Like the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Built in 1515, this iconic limestone tower once served as a fortress and ceremonial gateway to Lisbon, guarding the entrance to the Tagus River and protecting the city from sea invasions.

   With its unique Manueline architecture, maritime motifs, and historical cannons, Belém Tower tells the story of Portugal’s Age of Exploration. It was from these very shores that Vasco da Gama embarked on his legendary voyage to India, opening up the first sea route between Europe and Asia—a pivotal moment in global trade and navigation. 

   1. Hours: 9:30–17:30
   2. Ticket: €8 (free with Lisbon Card)

   ⛵ Climbing to the top of the tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of the river and the Lisbon coastline. Though compact, the tower is rich in symbolism and a must-see landmark for anyone interested in Portuguese maritime history.

📍 Optional Day Trip: Sintra or Cascais

1. Sintra: Palaces, gardens, and colorful castles (Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira)
   1. How to Go: Train from Rossio Station (~40 mins)
   2. Tip: Book Pena Palace tickets in advance
2. Cascais: Coastal town with beaches and boutiques
   1. How to Go: Train from Cais do Sodré (~40 mins)

🌇 Best Viewpoints in Lisbon: Hills, Sunsets & Local Vibes

Lisbon’s famously hilly terrain can feel like a workout—even walking a single block often means going uphill—but the reward is well worth it. The city’s natural elevation offers some of the most stunning viewpoints in Europe, perfect for soaking in panoramic views, golden-hour sunsets, and the city’s red rooftops spilling down toward the Tagus River.

During the day, these miradouros (viewpoints) are lively gathering spots where tourists snap photos, locals sip coffee or beer on nearby terraces, and street performers add to the city’s charm with music and art.

Here are three of my favorite Lisbon viewpoints:

1. 🔭 Monte Agudo

   A lesser-known spot with fewer crowds, Monte Agudo offers a peaceful atmosphere and sweeping views over Lisbon’s eastern side. It’s ideal for quiet moments, photography, and catching your breath after a hill climb.

2. 🕊️ Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

   One of the highest viewpoints in Lisbon, this place offers breathtaking panoramic views—from the São Jorge Castle to the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s popular at sunset, so arrive early to grab a good spot.

3. 🌿 Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

   Located in the Bairro Alto district, this terraced garden offers postcard-worthy views of Lisbon’s historic center. With lush greenery, fountains, and a laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for a scenic break during your explorations.

💡 Travel Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle, especially in summer. Lisbon’s hills are beautiful—but they’ll make you sweat!

🔍 What to Eat in Lisbon

1. 🍞 Portuguese Bakeries

   Rather than the typical Portuguese cuisine like seafood and egg tarts, Lisbon's local bakeries and pastries stood out the most. Nearly every block has a bustling bakery filled with locals. Grabbing a cup of coffee and two to three kinds of fresh bread became a daily ritual. Watch what locals order: orange muffins and ham-and-cheese pies are top picks, usually eaten standing at the counter with a cappuccino.

2. 🍰 Manteigaria – Cream Pastry Factory (Egg Tart)

   Rather than the typical Portuguese cuisine like seafood and egg tarts, Lisbon's local bakeries and pastries stood out the most. Nearly every block has a bustling bakery filled with locals. Grabbing a cup of coffee and two to three kinds of fresh bread became a daily ritual. Watch what locals order: orange muffins and ham-and-cheese pies are top picks, usually eaten standing at the counter with a cappuccino.

3. 🥜 A Merendeira (Potato Soup & Sandwich)

   A set menu features potato soup and a warm salami sandwich—simple Portuguese comfort food. Many also add a custard pudding for dessert. A cozy winter meal, though the flavors were more ordinary than memorable.

4. 🌿 Restaurante Os Barões (Seafood Restaurant)

   Discovered en route to A Merendeira, this hidden seafood gem is mostly frequented by locals and neighborhood office workers. A quiet, authentic spot without tourist crowds. Though it might feel intimidating for solo travelers, the warm staff make everyone feel welcome—and the seafood is excellent.

📝 Essential Lisbon Travel Tips

1. 🧼 Wear sturdy shoes: Hills and cobblestones await
2. 🚊 Ride Tram 28 early: Avoid crowds by boarding before 9 AM
3. 📅 Book top attractions in advance, especially during summer
4. 🍒 Try Ginjinha: Cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups
5. 📏 Carry cash for taxis, flea markets, and small cafés

🔍 Map Your Adventure

Lisbon is a city that lingers. With soulful songs echoing from tiled walls and river breezes blowing past ancient towers, your three days here will leave you dreaming of a return.

Boa viagem!