Lisbon in one day: an hour-by-hour itinerary
Quick answer
In one day in Lisbon, see Belém in the morning, lunch in the Baixa, climb to São Jorge Castle and wander Alfama in the afternoon, and finish with sunset at a viewpoint. There are hills and some transport; tram 28 is optional. The Jerónimos Monastery is closed on Mondays.
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One-day itinerary through Lisbon
The plan starts in Belém, which is far out, and works back to the centre. Times are approximate and include transfers.
- 1
09:00 · Belém · tram 15
Jerónimos Monastery
Arrive at opening. Enter the free church and visit the Manueline cloister if you have a ticket. With AnyArt you can point at the portal or cloister to hear its story.
- 2
10:30 · Belém
Belém Tower and the river
Stroll along the Tagus to the tower. Check beforehand whether it is open for visits; it looks just as good from outside.
- 3
11:30 · Belém
Pastéis de nata
Try the city's most famous pastry at the bakery in the area; there is a line but it moves quickly.
- 4
13:00 · Baixa
Lunch in the Baixa
Return to the centre by tram and eat in the Baixa or by Praça do Comércio.
- 5
14:30 · Praça do Comércio and Rua Augusta Arch
Praça do Comércio
Walk through the Rua Augusta Arch and look out over the river.
- 6
15:30 · Alfama · Sé
Cathedral and Alfama
Head up to the Sé and get lost in Alfama's alleys.
- 7
16:30 · São Jorge Castle
São Jorge Castle
Climb the ramparts for the red rooftops and the river. Allow 1 hour.
- 8
18:30 · Miradouro de Santa Luzia or Graça
Sunset at a viewpoint
Finish with sunset from one of the Alfama or Graça viewpoints.
- 9
20:00 · Alfama or Bairro Alto
Dinner and fado
Dine in Alfama, or in Bairro Alto if you prefer a bar scene.
Tips to make the most of the day
- Comfortable, non-slip shoes: the cobbles get slippery when wet.
- Avoid Mondays because the Jerónimos is closed; do Belém another day or rework the plan.
- If you want tram 28, go early or at night; at peak times it is packed.
- In summer, leave the castle for late afternoon and carry water.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see Lisbon in one day?
Yes, the essentials: Belém, the Baixa, Alfama and a viewpoint. It is an intense day with plenty of hills.
Where should I start?
In Belém, first thing, then return to the centre by tram 15 to continue with the Baixa and Alfama.
What if it's Monday?
The Jerónimos Monastery is closed on Mondays, so focus on Alfama, the castle and the Baixa and leave Belém for another day.
Is tram 28 worth it?
It is very picturesque but crowded. If you want it, go early; otherwise you can explore Alfama on foot.