Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, deserves far more than two days—but sometimes our schedules don’t allow for longer stays. If you only have a short stopover, here are the top things to see and do to make the most of 48 hours in this vibrant city.
Tuk-Tuk Tour
The fastest and easiest way to get an overview of Lisbon is by tuk-tuk. I recommend starting your first morning with this tour: it will whisk you through neighborhoods, highlight important squares, monuments, and attractions, and give you a sense of the city’s layout. If anything feels too rushed, you’ll still have time later to circle back and explore at your own pace.
Wander the Neighborhoods
Two of my favorite neighborhoods are Alfama and Chiado, and they couldn’t be more different.
• Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon, with winding cobblestone streets, centuries-old tiled buildings, and a rich tradition as the birthplace of Fado music. It’s also the picturesque setting you’ve likely seen on Instagram. Don’t miss the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, one of the city’s most stunning lookout points, offering sweeping views over the terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Tagus River below.
• Chiado, on the other hand, is polished and lively, with boutique shopping, charming cafés, and a wide variety of restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to pause for coffee or a memorable meal.
Praça do Comércio
Lisbon’s grand main square, Praça do Comércio, opens right onto the waterfront promenade. It’s a great place to take in the city’s history and energy while admiring the open views of the Tagus River.
Belém
A short ride away, Belém is packed with history and must-see landmarks. Here you’ll find the Belém Tower(currently under renovation), the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, and the original bakery that put pastéis de nata on the map. If you book a longer tuk-tuk tour, Belém is often included as a stop.
Pastel de Nata
And finally… let’s talk about Lisbon’s most delicious treasure: the pastel de nata. These flaky, custard-filled tarts are sold everywhere, but three names stand out: Manteigaria, Castro, and Fábrica da Nata. Of course, we tried them all (for research, of course). Our winner? Castro. Slightly less sweet, perfectly balanced, and served with the option to sprinkle cinnamon or powdered sugar—honestly, I could eat several in one sitting!
