Last Updated on: 10th December 2022, 03:53 am
Lisbon Day Trip
Do you want to visit as much as possible of Lisbon in one day? We’ve partnered with our friends at Expedia-AARP.com to bring you a packed one-day itinerary to help you see the most important sites in Lisbon. I warn you now, it’s going to be a full day so make sure you’re wearing comfy shoes, start early and bring plenty of water with you.
King Edward VII Park
We always like to start the day from King Edward VII Park aka Parque Eduardo VII. It’s really nice to have a quick wander around especially in the early mornings. It is the largest park in central Lisbon, covering 62 acres.
Situated on a hill, with a rather formal garden design, it has incredible views over Praça Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade, and the Tagus River. Closest metro stops: S.Sebastiao, Parque or Marquês de Pombal on the Blue Line.
As you exit the park, heading downwards towards the river, you will pass the very fancy statue of Marques de Pombal, who played a significant role in rebuilding Lisbon after the devastating earthquake of 1755.
Take a few minutes to admire the striking figures on the base. From here, it’s a lovely stroll down Avenida de Liberdade, a Parisian-style boulevard, which links King Edward VII Park to Lisbon’s historic center. It’s a beautiful boulevard, lined with trees, fountains and statues and plenty of street side cafes where you can enjoy a coffee and a pastel de nata – a typical Portuguese breakfast!
See also:
- Portugal Day Trip: Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium)
- Portugal Day Trip: Queluz National Palace (Palacio de Queluz)
- Portugal Day Trip: Areia Branca Beach Town
- Portugal Day Trip: Batalha Monastery
- Portugal Day Trip: Berlengas Islands
Rossio Square and St George’s Castle
As you approach Rossio Square, take a look to your left, and you’ll see St George’s Castle aka Castelo de São Jorge up on the hill. If you’re feeling energetic, it’s fun to walk up through the narrow cobblestoned streets of the Alfama district up to the castle.
Don’t worry about taking a particular route, part of the fun of exploring Lisbon and its neighborhoods is losing yourself in the alleys and back streets. You’ll never get too lost, look upwards and keep heading towards the castle.
Not so keen on hills? Well, if you’ve started early, head to Martim Moniz Square. It’s a short walk from Rossio Square or take the metro to Martim Moniz on the Green Line. From here, jump on Tram 28 which will take you through some of the most scenic parts of Lisbon. But be warned, tram 28 is popular, it’s no longer Lisbon’s best-kept secret.
Go as early as possible; otherwise, you have to wait in line a while and the tram can get really crowded. An alternative to Tram 28, but which will take you on a circular route up to the castle area, is Tram 12. If you are planning to use the trams, it’s much cheaper to use a Viva Viagem Card. More on that in our Travel Tips section.
If you’ve taken the tram up, consider walking back, so you have a chance to explore the back streets of Alfama. Be sure to stop on the way down at the Largo das Portas do Sol or the nearby viewpoint at Santa Luzia. Great views and a nice place to break for a coffee, or snack.
Take A Ferry Across The Tagus River For Great Food And Views
By now you’ll probably be getting ready for lunch. There’s plenty of eating places in Alfama, or at the bottom of the hill in Chiado, Lisbon’s shopping district, but let me tell you about our favorite spot by the River Tagus.
You will need to take the metro to Cais do Sodré which is located at the end of the green line. Just one stop from Baixa-Chiado or two stops from Rossio if you decide to board there. From Cais do Sodré metro station, follow the signs to the ferries to Cacilhas.
Yes, we are going to cross the River Tagus. Boats depart every 10 minutes or so, and take roughly 10 minutes to reach the south side and cost just over a Euro per person. Once you disembark, walk west along the river for about 10 to15 minutes. You will pass many derelict warehouses and be wondering where on earth is she taking us?
Eventually, you will come across two restaurants, the Pont Final and Altire-te ao Rio Almada. Both have great views of old Lisbon and delicious food. Average cost around €20-25 per head. Yes, you can find cheaper food in Lisbon but they won’t have the views across the river of the old city, so treat yourself.
Cristo Rei – Lisbon’s Statue of Christ
If you have the time or still have plenty of energy after lunch, you could walk or take bus 101 from Cacilhas to the Cristo Rei, Lisbon’s Statue of Christ. If you’re planning to walk, a little further on from the restaurants there is the Elevador Panoramico de Boca do Vento which will take you up the cliff, otherwise, that’s rather a steep walk, and you still have lots to see yet.
Even if you don’t make it to the statue of Christ, the view from the top of the elevator of Lisbon and the April 25 bridge is pretty impressive.
However, if you do make it as far as the Cristo Rei, the view from the terrace overlooking Lisbon and the April 25 Bridge is stunning and on a really clear day, you can even see the Pena Palace in Sintra and the attractions of Belem, where we are heading to next. It’s also possible to go to the top of the 110-meter statue, although we have never done that. Cost is €5 and there’s a lift that takes you to the top.
Belem
Next, head back across the river to Belem. Take the ferry over to Cais do Sodré and make your way by metro to Terreiro do Paço. One stop on the Green Line to Baixa-Chiado and then one stop on the Blue Line. From the subway, walk across the fabulous Praça do Comércio which is still referred to as Terreiro do Paço as this is where the Paços da Ribeira (the Royal Ribeira Palace) stood before being completely destroyed in the 1755 earthquake.
From here take Tram 15 all the way to Belem. Sadly Tram 15 is not one of those lovely old characterful trams like the famous tram 28. The fare is €3 each way. It also gets quite crowded, so as an alternative you could take bus 728.
Monument to the Discoveries
You could easily spend a whole day in Belem, there is so much to see and do, but it does get jam-packed especially during July and August, on weekends, and when the big cruise ships are in. So for most people, a few hours is enough. If time is limited, we suggest heading to the iconic Padro dos Descobrimentos Monument statue aka The Monument to the Discoveries first.
If you take a selfie here and post on Facebook, everyone will know you’re in Lisbon. It’s also possible to go inside the monument. Inside you will find a small museum and a viewing platform at the top.
Belem Tower
From here, it’s a pleasant stroll along the Tejo estuary to the famous Torre de Belem aka the Belem Tower. It’s a beautiful building and another iconic star of Lisbon. It’s possible to go inside, but the queues have always been so long whenever we are in the area, so we never have. If you have more patience than us, the price to enter is €6, and please let us know what it’s like. Note that this too is closed on Mondays.
Just next to the Belem Tower is a bar, it looks tempting but it’s very much tourist prices, and the food is rather average. Our advice is if you’re thirsty, pick up something at one of the local vendors and relax in the park under the shade of a tree.
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
Next stop, the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. It’s a stunning looking building. It costs €10 to enter or €12 for a combined ticket that includes entry to the Belem Tower. The queue to enter the monastery can be really long during high season but there’s rarely a queue to enter the church, and that’s free to go inside.
Time For Some Dessert
If you’re beginning to feel a bit peckish, just a short walk away is the famous Pastéis de Belem bakery. You will inevitably see a long queue outside but don’t panic, this is the queue for takeaways. Just ignore the line and head inside and find yourself a table. Service is a bit slow and surly, but oh boy, the Pasteis de Belem are worth it. And if you’re only spending one day in Lisbon, well this is a must-do!
By now, you must be exhausted. It’s time to enjoy a well-deserved sunset cocktail. There are some nice looking bars along the Tejo estuary or our choice, is to head to the LX factory located under the 25 de Abril bridge. Then jump in an Uber, take the tram, or bus and go and enjoy the bars, restaurants and the night-life of Barrio Alto.
Top Tips For Seeing Lisbon In One Day
I said it at the beginning and I’ll say it again. Wear comfortable shoes. The streets of Lisbon are not designed for heels. The cobbled streets can also be a bit slippery even when it hasn’t been raining so take extra care.
If you are planning on using the buses, ferries, and trams, you will save money and time if you buy a travel card. These can be purchased at any metro station. Unfortunately, the ticket counters are often closed at the metro stations, so you have to use the ticket machines which can be a bit confusing.
First of all, you need to purchase a Viva Viagem card through the ticket machine at any metro station which costs €0.50.
Then you have three choices.
Buy a single ticket for a specific journey in Lisbon which cost €1.45. But if you’re planning to make more than one trip, this isn’t the most cost-effective or efficient method.
Or
Zapping – this works well if you visit Lisbon often like we do or spending a few days. Just top up the Viva Viagem card with a minimum of €3 and in multiples of €5. Each journey will cost less than buying single tickets each time.
Or
If you are only spending one day in Lisbon, consider buying a one day ticket which is valid for 24 Hours. It costs €6.30 and allows you unlimited travel on the metro, bus, tram, funiculars, and elevators. Or €9.35 and this includes the ferry to Cacilhas.
Another option, although we personally haven’t used it is to purchase the Lisboa Card. These can be bought in advance. A card costs from €19 for one day to €40 for three days. It includes 29 free museums, including the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and unlimited free public transport. It also offers discounts on many museums and activities. I think if you’re staying more than a day and like visiting museums, it would definitely be worth getting. If you do purchase a Lisboa card, let us know in the comments what you think.
Hope you have a fantastic time exploring one of our favorite European cities. If you have any top tips or recommendations for seeing Lisbon in one day, or even longer, be sure to let us know.
I wish I had read this post one year ago. I went to Lisbon for 1 day because of a layover and I tried to squeeze as much as possible but not even close to your itinerary! Thanks for all the vital details regarding streets, cards, transportation etc! Worth reading!
There’s so much to see in Lisbon, it’s difficult to squeeze everything in. This itinerary gets in all the highlights but its a full on day. You will just have to come back lol
What a beautiful architect of the Belem Tower!!! I’m loving the Views from Cacilhas, so calm and peaceful. It seems possible to enjoy a fantastic trip in one day.
Belem Tower is beautiful indeed! Yes, if you can get across the river, the views and the restaurants are great and you get to escape the crowds for a while.
Lisbon was a surprise to me as it has lots of impressive monuments and beautiful buildings. I love Balem the most but watch out for pick pockets when you take a tram #28! @ knycx.journeying
Oh no, did you get pickpocketed? I’ve personally never experienced any problems but sadly where there are lots of tourists, there tends to be pickpockets. I hope you still enjoyed Lisbon though.
I have never been to Lisbon but it’s in my bucket list. You have recommended many interesting places. I love to travel by trams and also love to capture them. I have seen them in so many movies and they fascinate most when I think of Lisbon.
The monuments of Lisbon are beautiful and your photographs are awesome.
Thank you. Lisbon is a very beautiful city, you must come to visit.
Wow. Lisbon looks so beautiful and we hope to visit one day. The places seems to have so much heritage and art whether its Belem, Monument to the Discoveries or Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. Happy to stumble upon this guide of things to do in a day in Lisbon and would keep it for future reference. Good to note the tips for public transportation in Lisbon. Budget travelers look for ways to save money and these would help. I would also go with your choice of getting a Lisboa Card as would love to stay here for a longer duration.
Hope you make it to Lisbon one day, it really is a beautiful city. There’s so much to see and do. Try to allow more than one day in the city if you can though.
I love Portugal and I must admit that I prefer Porto over Lisbon, but I would give it a second chance after reading this itinerary! Great tips and many interesting places. The ferry ride across the river looks stunning!
I love Porto too! When I’m in Porto, I prefer Porto but when I’m in Lisbon, I prefer Lisbon 🙂
I loved the yellowish cute tram. Heh, I have a weird attraction to trams and trains and always photograph them in every place. Would like to add this one to my collection. Good enough reason to visit Lisbon?
That’s as good as any reason to visit Lisbon lol!
Portugal is on my bucket list but there are so many places to see! I love how you packed so much into one day in Lisbon. I really appreciate the tips on the transportation including passes. But most of all, I’m grateful for your eating and drinking tips since it can take time to figure it out. It’s a perfect itinerary.
Thank you! Yes, it is pretty full-on this itinerary. But when we have friends and relatives come to visit, they are so eager to see as much as possible. I’m becoming a pro at maximising days out lol
Wear comfortable shoes is such a good (and important) tip! I haven’t visited Portugal yet but can only imagine if the streets are anything like they are in a lot of Spanish cities, you’d be in trouble in heels!
This is such a full itinerary, I can’t believe you were able to squeeze so much in just 1 day! Glad you managed to make time for pasteis though, they’re so tasty!
Doesn’t matter how busy the day is, there’s always time for pasteis de nata lol
THAT is one power-packed day! Not my style of sightseeing but get it for the ones who only have a day or two in Lisbon. BUT you do have a lot of fun and amazing sites on here for anyone looking to visit. A quick tip, for those heading to Belem, skip the #15 tram and take the 15-E modern light rail or the 727 bus for half the price. With the Viva-Viagem card, they are only 1.40 and unless it’s rush hour, aren’t crowded like the tram.
Excellent tip about the trams!! Thank you!! Yes, it’s even packed by my standards, we are usually very slow travellers. But we have had many visitors from overseas recently who are trying to pack all the highlights of Portugal in one week!!!
Ah Sarah Jane, you’ve brought back great memories for me! I love Portugal in general, and Lisbon is an excellent capital to discover. My mouth’s watering for Pasteis de Belem, they’re so delicious especially when warm! And I don’t know how I missed the Cristo Rei when I was there?! Clearly I need to go back again!
It’s a lovely city, isn’t it? And oh, those Pateis de Belem, so worth the wait!!
After reading this I want to take a plane back to Lisbon. I loved that city!
I didn’t go to King Edward VII Park so would definitely do that.
I however think this is way to much to do in one day so I would book a day or two extra 😉
Great tips on public transport!
It’s certainly a lot to pack into one day, I agree. If you are just coming to Lisbon, I’d recommend 3-4 days but so many of our friends and visitors who come to see us want to see as much of Portugal as possible in one week. You would need to start this day early to fit all this in but the city is quite compact so it’s certainly doable, I know, I’ve done it several times lol
I really want to go for Portugal due to it colorful and lively streets and architectures. Lisbon in 1 day sounds interesting as you have covered all the major attractions. I loved the yellow Tram no 28 which takes us to major sightseeing attractions of Lisbon. Even that tram also looks very cute and photogenic. The view from Cacilhas is stunning. Thanks for sharing all the information.
Thank you. You must visit Portugal, it’s a lovely country. There’s so much to see and do here.
I used to live in Salamanca, Spain which was about a few hours into Lisbon. I have been there so many and absolutely stand by all your recommendations. My favourite is Belem Tower. And trying out the pastries (pies?)
I have actually never taken the tram though, wonder how I missed that.
Thank you. Salamanca is another of our favourite cities. Would love to return there one day 🙂
These are great suggestions for those who are short for time in visiting Lisbon! So much to see and do must’ve been an amazing experience for you!
Thank you. It’s a lovely city. A few more days to explore would be better though 🙂
Lisbon seems really cool! I’ve been to Europe a couple of times but never thought about visiting Portugal but I love how sunny and comfortable it looks! And of course, the architecture is gorgeous!
Oh, you must come and visit Portugal. Best country in Europe although I might be a little biased.
Portugal has been high on my list for the longest time! Lisbon looks so gorgeous and this post has made me want to go now, thanks for sharing!
Lisbon is a lovely city! It needs more than one day though to do it justice 🙂
Lisbon looks like such a great city! That dessert looks delicious. I’m planning a Europe trip next summer and trying to decide on destinations – I might have to add Portugal!
Definitely find time to visit Portugal, you won’t be disappointed!
Fantastic ideas! I recently visited Lisbon but didn’t manage to see King Edward VII Park or visit the Cristo Rei statue. Next time for sure need to include these on the agenda.
It’s worth it. The views especially from the Cristo Rei statue are well worth it!
this is a great guide with interesting features and point of interests. I also love the Pasteis de Belem and ALWAYS seek for them when in Portugal….
Pasteis de Belem and Pasteis de nata are a must in any trip to Portugal lol
I didn’t realize what stunning architecture Lisbon has!
It’s a beautiful old city 🙂
Lisbon looks amazing
It is, come visit 🙂
This is exactly what I need! I am off to Lisbon in December so this is going to be very useful. Thank you!
Cool, it’s a lovely city. Will be less crowds in December so much nicer. Wear comfy shoes!!!!
Love this post, I’m looking to take a trip to Lisbon myself and you have given me some great tips on what to visit. Pictures are beautiful, thanks for sharing.
Thank you. Enjoy Lisbon, it’s a great city!
I only got to spend 24 hours in Lisbon during a layover and this is a pretty spot on guide! Also… I would love a Pastéis!
Those pasteis are so addictive, aren’t they? Lol
Absolutely stunning architecture coupled with amazing landscapes! Lisbon looks like an ideal city tour for me 🙂 Thanks for sharing
Going to Lisbon for a day layover soon. This is so helpful. Is there transportation early morning (7am) from airport to PARQUE EDUARDO VII? That’s where we would like to start our day too.
It is a cool walk. I believe the Lisbon Metro starts running at 6:30 AM if I remember right.