If you only have a few days in Lisbon, here are seven must-see sights and experiences that showcase the best of this beautiful city—plus two popular attractions you can skip.
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1. Take a Day Trip to Sintra
Just a short train ride from Lisbon (about 40 minutes), Sintra is a magical town straight out of a fairytale. Nestled in the hills of the Sintra Mountains, it’s known for its vibrant palaces, mystical gardens, and historic castles. When you arrive at the Sintra train station, you’ll find a tourist bus stop right outside with two main lines:
Bus 434 (€5) takes you in a loop to the iconic Pena Palace and Castle of the Moors, two of the most famous and visually stunning sights in Portugal.
Bus 435 (€2.50) connects you to the beautiful Quinta da Regaleira, Seteais Palace, and Monserrate Palace, known for their beautiful gardens and unique architecture.
I tried both routes, but personally found Bus 434 offered better value, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
Tip: Try to go early in the morning to beat the crowds.
2. Watch the Sunset from São Jorge Castle
Castelo de São Jorge sits high above Lisbon’s Alfama district and offers breathtaking views over the city and the Tagus River. I recommend visiting in the early evening—you’ll skip the daytime crowds and be rewarded with one of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve seen in a long time. Just look at the photos above! Trust me, the golden-hour light over the terracotta rooftops is unforgettable.
3. Visit Belém Tower
Take tram or bus out to the Belém district. Torre de Belém is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Portuguese Manueline architecture. It’s about a 40-minute ride from the city center.
Tip: Arrive early—the tower opens at 9:30 a.m., and I got my best photos while it was still closed and the area was nearly empty.
4. Walk to Jerónimos Monastery
Once you’re in Belém, you can easily walk to the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, less than 2 km away. The monastery is one of the most impressive architectural landmarks in Lisbon, with numerous stone carvings, cloisters, and historical significance—it’s also the resting place of Vasco da Gama. Entry is free with the Lisbon Card.
5. Climb the Dome at National Pantheon of Santa Engrácia
The National Pantheon of Santa Engrácia is one of the most beautiful buildings in Lisbon, and often overlooked by tourists. The real highlight is climbing to the top of the dome, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views over the city, the Alfama rooftops, and the river. Don’t miss it!
6. Visit the Church of São Vicente of Fora
Located just a short walk from the National Pantheon, this stunning 17th-century church is well worth a visit. With its elegant facade and impressive interior, it’s a quiet gem where you can take a break from the busier sights.
7. Eat and Drink
Lisbon is full of incredible cafés, wine bars, and restaurants—I could easily spend an entire day just eating my way through the city. Be sure to try some Portuguese port wine, a local specialty, and of course, pastéis de nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tarts (vegan options are available too!). Check out my previous post The Best Vegan Restaurants in Lisbon if you are a vegan or vegetarian!
And 2 Things to Skip:
Tram 28
Yes, it’s famous—and yes, it’s overcrowded. Believe me; you don’t want to wait for an hour to get in this crowded tram full of tourists. I also saw notes at tram stops asking visitors to leave the trams for locals who rely on them for daily transport. The trams are not for tourists’ entertainment. Take a bus instead—you’ll be more comfortable and respectful of the locals.
Santa Justa Elevator
Another popular attraction that, in my opinion, isn’t worth your time. Every time I walked by, there was a huge line of people waiting outside.
These are the reasons why I would skip it:
Long lines
Crowds
And honestly, you’ll get a much better view from São Jorge Castle
Unless you have a Lisbon Card and there’s no line, I’d recommend skipping it and heading for the castle or the many other beautiful viewpoints in the city.
Lisbon is a city that blends old architecture with a vibrant, modern energy. With just a few days, you can soak in the sights, enjoy amazing food, and fall in love with its beauty, and welcoming atmosphere.
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