One Day in Lisbon: Itinerary & Top Sights (2026)

Lisbon is packed with iconic landmarks, viewpoints, and historic neighborhoods. When you only have one day in Lisbon, it’s important to focus on the highlights rather than trying to see everything. 

This itinerary is designed to help you experience the city from morning to evening with a well-paced, walkable route. 

For travelers with extra time, you can also explore more attractions with our 3 Days in Lisbon Guide for a deeper, more relaxed visit. Put on comfortable walking shoes and enjoy the day ahead.

1. Morning in Alfama

We suggest starting the day in Lisbon with a walking tour through Alfama. Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and offers a glimpse into when the city began. Spoiler alert.... it stretched back to the Romans! 

Lisbon Cathedral

Built in 1147 after the Christian reconquest, Lisbon Cathedral is the city’s most important church and a defining symbol of early Lisbon.

• Located at the base of Alfama, making it an ideal starting point
• Mix of Romanesque and later architectural styles
• Easy to combine with a self-guided or guided walking route

São Jorge Castle

Perched above the city,  São Jorge Castle offers one of the best panoramic views in Lisbon and a deep look into the city’s defensive past.

• Founded around 200 B.C. as a hilltop citadel
• Explore castle walls, towers, and former royal palace ruins
• Lively surroundings with cafés and artisan shops

Miradouro de Santa Luzia & Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Just below the castle,  Santa Luzia Miradouro and Portas do Sol viewpoints are among the most photographed spots in Lisbon, only a short walk apart.

• Iconic views of Alfama’s terracotta rooftops
• Overlooks the Tagus River and historic neighborhoods
• Excellent short stops during a one day in Lisbon itinerary

Palácio dos Azurara

Located across from Portas do Sol, this lesser-known palace showcases Portuguese decorative arts in an intimate setting.

• Exhibits from the 15th to 19th centuries
• Easy cultural stop without large crowds
• Ideal for art and history enthusiasts

Miradouro da Graça & Igreja da Graça

End the Alfama walk at Graça, a local favorite offering wide, open views across the city.

• Panoramas of São Jorge Castle, Baixa, Estrela Basilica, and the 25 de Abril Bridge
• Igreja da Graça dates back to the 13th century
• Noted for gilded chapels and baroque interior details

After finishing the tour of Alfama, you can either take the Tram 28E down the hill or make your way down on foot. 

2. Afternoon in the City Center

Explore the center of Lisbon and the closest neighborhoods to the low and flat Baixa district.  Here you will discover wide boulevards, grand plazas and neoclassical style architecture.

Praça do Comércio

Located at the base of Alfama along the Tagus River, Praça do Comércio is one of Lisbon’s most impressive and symbolic squares.

• Former site of the Royal Palace before the 1755 earthquake
• Open riverside setting with arcaded buildings
• A natural transition point between Alfama and Baixa

Rua Augusta Arch

Marking the entrance to Baixa, the Rua Augusta Arch celebrates Lisbon’s rebirth after the earthquake.

• Take the elevator to the top for views over Baixa and the river
• One of the best viewpoints in the city center
• Leads directly into Lisbon’s main pedestrian street

Café Martinho da Arcada

One of Lisbon’s oldest cafés, Martinho da Arcada was a favorite meeting place of writers and intellectuals.

• Ideal stop for lunch or a short break
• Historic atmosphere dating back to the 18th century
• Prime location on Praça do Comércio

Rua Augusta

Rua Augusta is Lisbon’s most famous pedestrian-only shopping street, lined with shops, tourist-friendly restaurants, cafés, and historic buildings.

• Patterned black-and-white stone pavement
• Home to boutiques, pastelarias, and restaurants
• Includes Bertrand Livraria, founded in 1732

Santa Justa Lift

This gothic iron elevator connects Baixa with the higher Carmo district.

• Access panoramic views from the upper viewing deck
• Alternative access via the elevator inside the Cork Shop on Rua do Carmo
• Convenient link between shopping streets and historic sites

Carmo Convent

Once the largest church in Lisbon, Carmo Convent was left in ruins after the 1755 earthquake.

• Striking open-roof Gothic structure
• Home to the Carmo Archaeological Museum
• Exhibits include sculptures, tiles, tombs, and mummies

Rossio Square

A short walk from Carmo Convent, Rossio Square has long been a central meeting point in Lisbon.

• Distinctive wave-patterned stone pavement
• Neo-Manueline Rossio Train Station façade
• Lively atmosphere throughout the day

A Ginjinha

Located on Rossio, A Ginjinha is Lisbon’s oldest bar specializing in cherry liqueur.

• Try a traditional shot of ginjinha
• Quick, authentic local experience
• Popular with both locals and visitors

3. Evening in Belém

For the last portion of the day we have planned a  short trip to the neighboring district of Belém. To reach Belém we suggest using the most convenient form of public transportation which would be the coastal train. Head to Cais do Sodré train station and buy a ticket to the Belém station. 

Monument to the Discoveries

Just outside the station, this monumental sculpture celebrates Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

• Built for the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator’s death
• Elevator access to the top for panoramic river views
• A strong visual introduction to Belém

Belém Tower

Follow the riverside path to reach Belém Tower, one of Lisbon’s most symbolic landmarks.

• Former defensive structure guarding the river entrance
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Historic departure and arrival point for Portuguese explorers

Jerónimos Monastery

Across the street, Jerónimos Monastery is one of Lisbon’s most important cultural sites.

• UNESCO World Heritage monastery
• Built to honor Vasco da Gama and Portugal’s maritime success
• Outstanding example of Manueline architecture

Riverside Walk & Views

After visiting the monastery, walk back toward Lisbon along the river.

• Wide pedestrian path directly beside the Tagus
• Views of the bridge and Cristo Rei
• Relaxed pace to transition into the evening

MAAT

Along the route, stop at the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, a popular spot for photos and sunset views along the river. It’s also a great stop for families, making it easy to combine with our guide to the top places to visit in Lisbon with kids.

• Rooftop deck overlooking the river
• Popular sunset spot
• Suitable for families and travelers with kids

LX Factory

Return toward Lisbon by train and exit at Alcântara to end the day at LX Factory.

• Former industrial complex turned creative district
• Filled with boutiques, restaurants, bars, and studios
• Ideal spot for evening entertainment, fantastic dinner and drinks 

You’ve now explored the key highlights of Lisbon in just one day, from historic neighborhoods and viewpoints to iconic riverside landmarks. While it’s impossible to see everything in one day in Lisbon, this itinerary is designed to give you a well-rounded first impression of the city.

If you’re staying longer, continue your journey with our guide to 50 Things to Do in Lisbon or follow our 3-Day Guide to Lisbon for a more relaxed and in-depth experience.

📅 Planning a group travel, corporate event, or incentives in Lisbon? Our M.I.C.E. team supports you with group hotel selection, venues, group activities, and local coordination, helping you secure the right setup and competitive rates. Contact us for tailored recommendations and a customized proposal.

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