2 Days in Lisbon Portugal: My Fav Sights, Eats & Local Tips

Here's the 2 days in Lisbon Portugal itinerary I share with our friends and family who come to visit! And if you want longer itineraries, check out these I created for Days in Portugal (Lisbon - Sintra - Cascais) and 1 Week in Portugal (Lisbon - Porto - Sintra - Cascais). And check out my packing recommendations for a Portugal Trip here!

2 Days in Lisbon Portugal Table of Contents:

Day 1 AM: Tram 28 for 4 Stops, Castelo de São Jorge
Day 1 PM: Praça do Comércio, San Justo Elevator, Chiado & Fado
Day 2 AM: Lisbon Cable Car, Oceanarium, Pavilion of Knowledge
Day 2 PM: Belém Pastel de Nata, & Sunset at Monument of the Discoveries
Free PDF Itinerary Download
Hotel Recommendations for this Itinerary (Chiado and Belem)
Guided Tours and Fun Experiences

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If you are at the beginning of planning your trip, I wrote a whole blog post on my family hotel recommendations in Lisbon and throughout Portugal and if you want to extend your time in Lisbon, check out this 4 Day Itinerary in Lisbon.

Day 1 of 2 Days in Lisbon Portugal - Iconic #28 Tram Ride

Begin your wonderful 2 days in Lisbon Portugal with a ride on the iconic yellow and red Tram 28 that wander the hills and narrow streets of Lisbon. You are going to talk it 4 stops from the beginning to the Castelo.

Starting Point for Tram 28

Your best bet is to begin at the beginning of the tram line at the Martim Moniz Square. From here, the tram climbs towards the Graça district, offering stunning vistas of the city below. The route then meanders through the Alfama district, one of the oldest and most traditional areas of Lisbon, known for its Fado houses, colorful buildings, and steep streets, leading up to the majestic Castelo de São Jorge.

Personal Recommendation for Tram 28

Try to get to the Square before 8:30 AM. This early start helps you avoid the long lines that can form later in the day, especially during the tourist season.

Cost and English Website for Tram 28

Tram fares in Lisbon are quite affordable, but prices can vary. A single tram ticket bought onboard can cost around €3.00, but it's more economical to purchase a 24-hour public transport pass for about €6.40, which allows unlimited rides on trams, buses, and metro within the city. For the most up-to-date pricing and options, it's best to check the official Carris website (Lisbon's public transport operator). English website here.

Stop #2 Castelo de São Jorge - The Best Overlook of Lisbon Portugal for 2 Day Trip

Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

For unparalleled vistas of the city and the waterfront, head to Castelo de São Jorge. My children were thrilled to discover this historic castle perched above Lisbon, a relic from the 11th century that once served as a Moorish royal dwelling before its capture in the Christian reconquest of Lisbon. What seemed to captivate my kids the most were the numerous (around 20?) peacocks wandering freely throughout the castle grounds. Additionally, we enjoyed a crepe and drinks stand conveniently located at the scenic viewpoint!

Operating Hours:

Castelo de São Jorge welcomes visitors every day, operating under the following hours:

From March 1st to October 31st (Summer): Open from 9 am until 9 pm, with the last admission at 8:30 pm.
From November 1st to February 28/29th (Winter): Open from 9 am until 6 pm, with the last admission at 5:30 pm. Please note, the castle is closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 24th, 25th, and 31st, with early closure at 1 pm on December 31st.

Admission Fees:

Adults: €10
Students: €5
Seniors over 65 and individuals with disabilities: €8.50
Children under 12 years old: Free

Getting There:

Our journey began with a delightful Tuk Tuk ride from our hotel, which was a hit with the kids. Uber offers an economical option in Portugal, with rides costing around €5 for 15-minute journeys. Alternatively, one can take bus #737 and walk for about 2 minutes from the Praça da Figueira-Castelo de S. Jorge stop, or take the renowned #28 Tram from Martim Moniz-Prazeres, followed by a 5-minute walk. The Rossio metro station is another option, requiring an 11-minute walk to reach the castle.

Castelo Peacock and Lisbon Neighborhoods with my Daughter. Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

Stop #2 Walk 2 minutes from the Castle to Miradouro do Recolhimento

Address: R. do Recolhimento, 1100-563 Lisboa

Cost: Free!

This viewpoint, or Miradouro, is located just 140 meters away from the castle and features an enjoyable playground for children.

#3 Walk 6 minutes to my favorite Miradouro, Santa Santa Luzia

Address: Largo de Santa Luzia, 1100-487 Lisboa

After 6-minute walk, you will find the Miradouro Santa Luzia, one of the city's most cherished viewpoints. Especially vibrant in the spring and summer with its array of stunning flowers, it's worth noting that Google Maps indicates a 6-minute walk, but remember, it's a downhill journey on cobblestone paths. It's an excellent spot for enjoying a snack or coffee.

Day 1 Afternoon & Lunch Itinerary (of 2 days in Lisbon) Praça do Comércio

Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

Address: Praça do Comércio, 1100-148 Lisboa

This is the famous plaza along the river Tejo with stunning views across the river and tons of restaurants to choose from. Eat lunch here and take in the views. You can also climb the Arco da Rua Augusta, the main archway at the center for 5 euros!

Personal recommendation: Our favorite coffee roaster, Fábrica Coffee Roasters has a store just off the plaza at R. do Comércio 111, 1100-150 Lisboa!

And Pink Street is only a couple of blocks away at R. Nova do Carvalho, 1200-019 Lisboa, Portugal

Next, walk 7 minutes north on Rua Augusta to the San Justo Elevator

Address: Santa Justa Lift, R. do Ouro, 1150-060 Lisboa

My children were fascinated by the Santa Justa Lift! It serves as a functional elevator situated in the heart of the city, creating a link between the lower Baixa district and the elevated Chiado district. Its iron framework, which echoes the Eiffel Tower's neo-Gothic style, has turned it into a sought-after tourist spot, providing sweeping vistas of Lisbon.

Operating Hours:

The elevator runs daily, with hours that adjust by season. For the most current schedule, it's best to consult their website.

From May to October: 7 am - 11 pm
From November to April: 7 am - 10 pm

Admission Fees:

A return journey on the lift costs €5.30, with an extra charge of €1.50 for accessing the observation deck unless you're riding the elevator.

#6 Ride the elevator up one way, then enjoy a 9-minute walk to Praça Luís de Camões in Chiado.

Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

Address: Largo Luís de Camões, 1200-243 Lisboa

Chiado ranks among my top spots in Lisbon! The plaza bursts with life, featuring the iconic #28 Tram, a magnificent cathedral, and a central kiosk. It's a culinary haven where you can savor dishes from Indian to traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Dining Suggestions: We stumbled upon an incredible little spot to eat, though its name escapes me at the moment; I'll make sure to update this after my next visit. For a taste of Fado, I recommend the following places:

Tasca da tia Macheta offers live Fado music
Tasca do Chico is another great spot for experiencing Fado.

#8 Concluding with Fado!

Fado music, characterized by its melancholic and heartfelt tones, is a fundamental aspect of Portuguese culture. It encapsulates Lisbon's history, sentiments, and identity in a deeply expressive manner. My family thoroughly enjoyed visiting a restaurant that featured Fado performances starting around 8 PM, which is ideal for families with children who might not be able to stay awake for shows that begin at 9 PM and extend past midnight.

A great option is Lisboa em Fado in Chiado! Tickets are very affordable and easily reserved via Get Your Guide. (And you get a glass of port wine per adult ticket).

Duration: 50 minutes
GYG Description: "Experience an intimate live Fado show with local artists in downtown Lisbon. Get an authentic look at traditional music as Portuguese guitars and classic guitars accompany the singers."
Recent Review: "Superb evening to discover Fado. Warm and relaxed atmosphere. The musicians and singers are at the top and offer us superb Fado music. Nice close exchange between the singers and the public. I highly recommend this activity!!"
Not recommended for children under 4 years old.

Day 2 Lisbon Portugal Itinerary Morning: Lisbon Cable Car, Oceanarium, or Pavilion of Knowledge

Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

Stop #1 Lisbon Cable Car Experience

Kick off your second day in Lisbon with a scenic ride on the Lisbon Cable Car, also known as the Telecabine Lisbon. My children were thrilled by this adventure when we first arrived in the city! It offers a distinct bird's-eye view of the Parque das Nações (Park of Nations), soaring about 30 meters above the Tagus River. The 12-minute trip, covering around 1.2 kilometers one way, grants sweeping views of landmarks like the Oceanarium, the Portugal Pavilion, and the Vasco da Gama Bridge. Keep an eye out for the Trash Cat!

Insider Tip:

Consider arriving via Uber or parking at the North Station. This strategy allows you to ride the cable car southward, visit attractions like the Aquarium or the Pavilion of Knowledge, and then return to the Telecabine in time for lunch.

Telecabine Operating Times:

From March 11th to May 26th and September 11th to October 28th: Open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
From May 27th to September 10th: Open from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
From October 29th to March 15th: Open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Telecabine Admission Fees:

Tickets are priced at €10 for adults for a round trip and €7 for children aged 3 to 12, with complimentary access for children up to 2 years old.

Stop #2 Choose Your Own Adventure - Visit the Aquarium or Pavilion of Knowledge

My son adores the Lisbon Oceanarium, a sanctuary of marine life acclaimed for its immersive experiences. It's home to over 15,000 animals from 450 species, including sharks, rays, vibrant clownfish, otters, and penguins. This aquatic journey across the global oceans is set on a distinctive peninsula, visible from the gondola ride.

Operating Hours:

The Oceanarium welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the last admission at 7 p.m. Note that hours may change on certain holidays.

Admission Fees:

Adults (13-64 years): €25
Children (3-12 years): €15
Seniors (65+ years): €17
Free for children under 2

Or consider the Pavilion of Knowledge, situated a brief 2-minute walk from the Telecabine South Station.

The Pavilion of Knowledge stands as a beacon for interactive science and technology exploration in Lisbon. It's designed to demystify science for all, featuring engaging exhibits and activities that encourage curiosity and discovery among visitors of all ages. It's a must-visit for us, especially on a rainy day!

Operating Hours:

Tuesday to Friday: 10 am to 6 pm
Weekends and holidays: 10 am to 7 pm
Closed on Mondays

Admission Fees:

Free for children under 2
Children (3-11 years): €8
Youths (12-17 years): €9
Adults (18-64 years): €14
Seniors (65+ years): €10
Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children): €30

#4 Second Day Lunch in Portugal

After your Telecabine ride to the North Station, explore the waterfront eateries. I highly recommend 100 Montaditos Oriente for its unbeatable value, with a vast selection of 100 items priced between €1 and €5. It's perfect for families, offering a variety of kid-friendly options like fries, sandwiches, and nachos.

Day 2 Afternoon: Explore Belém (20-40 minute Uber ride)

Belém is celebrated for its pivotal role in the Age of Discoveries and its unique Manueline architectural style. It's the historic departure point for many of Portugal's exploratory expeditions, including those under the guidance of Prince Henry the Navigator. Notable landmarks here include the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Pastéis de Belém - My Top Choice for Pastel de Nata in Portugal

Located at Belém 84-92, 1300-085 Lisboa, this establishment serves my favorite Pastel de Nata in all of Portugal, a sentiment shared by many. Believed to have originated here in the early 19th century, the monks initially devised this recipe as a means of financial support, utilizing surplus egg yolks from the laundry process. Following the monastery's closure in 1834, the recipe was sold to a local sugar refinery, leading to the opening of the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém in 1837. Here, the closely guarded original recipe remains a secret known to only a select few.

If it's too crowded, consider visiting Manteigaria, also known as “The Buttery,” a short walk away. There's an ongoing debate among locals and visitors alike over which bakery offers the superior pastel de nata.

Additionally, you have the option to buy tickets to visit the Monastery, or for a glimpse of similar architectural wonders, the Iglesia de Santa María de Belén is worth a visit. Entry is free (note that it closes until around 2 PM on Sundays for Mass), where you can view the tomb of Vasco de Gama.

Final Stop: End Your 2 Days in Lisbon at the Belém Riverfront for Sunset

Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

Stroll for 11 minutes across the streets to the riverside, where you can choose between visiting the Monument of the Discoveries or the Belém Tower, which is a 20-minute walk from Pastéis de Belém. Witness the sunset while enjoying a beverage at either the Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) or the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém).

This spot ranks as my ultimate favorite in Lisbon for watching the sunset, as the monuments bask in the glorious golden hue of the setting sun.

Personal Recommendation: Despite visiting in January, we found it bustling with visitors, and it took us more than 30 minutes to find parking. Therefore, opting for an Uber or walking is advisable for a smoother experience.

And finally, for your social media captions, check out 56 Cool Lisbon Quotes!

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Hotel Recommendations for this Itinerary - Lisbon

Famous Crows Lisbon Suites in Belem where we stayed. Photo by Jennifer Liao at Family Trip Guides

Chiado:

Grape Harbor Prata Apartments in Chiado - Fabulous location and Suburb 9.2 rating from other families with breakfast included! Free cancellation until about a week before.
Martinhal Lisbon Chiado - Higher-end hotel with family suites, kids club, and lots of family-friendly amenities! Heard great things from our friends about Martinhal hotels.

Belem:

Famous Crows Lisbon Suites in Belem - We stayed here on our first trip to Lisbon and loved that it is 2 doors down from Pasteis de Belem so we went 2 times in one day when there was no line! No frills, affordable, and rooms for 4 people.
Embaixador Apartments & Suites - Highly rated and has a 2-bedroom apartment for an affordable price.

Fun Experiences and Guided Tours in Lisbon

Here are some highly-rated experiences and tours in Lisbon from Get Your Guide. Our family likes using GYG because most of the tours have a flexible 24-hour free cancellation policy so we can rebook if our kids get sick or the weather is bad.

Sunset Catamaran Tour with Music and Drink
1. Duration: 1.5 hours
2. Description from GYG: "Embark on a catamaran trip past the most emblematic points of the Tagus River. Enjoy a drink on board, relax on the boat's nets, and cruise past sites like the Belém Tower, the 25th of April Bridge."
3. Recent Review: "This excursion is a must-do for those who love sailing on the water and admiring sublime sunsets. Superb view of Belem from the Tagus, shame not to have seen the western part of Lisbon."
City Walking Tour with Food Tasting and Drinks
1. Duration: 3 hours
2. Description from GYG: "Immerse yourself in a culinary adventure while learning about Portugal's rich culture and history on a walking tour of Lisbon. Visit local spots in Baixa to enjoy a range of drinks and petiscos." 4 drinks and 9 tastings.
3. Recent Review: This walking tour has an incredible 4.9 of 5.0 with 347 reviews including "Amazing experience with local Portugese food. The tour guide was very enthusiastic in explaining the story behind the different bites and also about the city’s history. The duration was perfect, the length of the tour in kilometers was also fine and the amount of food/bites/drinks was perfectly enough."
Benfica's Luz Stadium Tour and SL Benfica Museum Ticket
1. Duration: 2 hours
2. Size of Group: Limited to 10
3. Description from GYG: "Retrace the footsteps of SL Benfica's legendary players and victories on a 2-hour tour of the Luz Stadium, Lisbon that is perfect for football fans. Enter the stage of the 2014 Champions League final, and visit the museum to learn about SL Benfica."
4. Recent Review: "It's spectacular, something unique and worth visiting. The stadium is a marvel, one of the best in the world, the light show is fantastic."

Car Rental in Portugal?

If you only have a couple of days in Lisbon, you do not need a car rental but if you want to venture out with a little more time to the beaches and castles surrounding Lisbon, check out this post on our family's experiences renting a car in Portugal!