Lisbon is one of those cities where you don’t need a strict plan, but if you only have 24 hours, it helps to have a rough idea of how to move around.

This is how we’d spend a day in Lisbon, based on what we actually enjoyed the most. We have best things, best viewpoints and best food for you in this guide. Hope you like it!

Morning: our favourite breakfast and brunch spot!

So first, let’s start with breakfast, the most important meal of the day, and trust us this one is so worth it!

This is our favourite breakfast and brunch spot in Lisbon, Shakar. We literally went here almost every day we could. The food is just really good and the whole place has a nice, relaxed vibe. Menu highlight: chicken tacos!

After that, once your bellies are full, start walking downhill towards the center.

You’ll be walking under trees, mostly in the shade, and since it’s downhill, it’s actually a very easy walk. No stress, no rushing, just a nice way to start the day and ease into Lisbon. And the best part, it’s downhill, so no suffering yet.

Next, head towards the Glória Funicular.

We know… it’s currently not operational, which is a bit unfortunate because it’s one of those classic Lisbon things. But it still leads you up to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, and that’s the real reason you’re here.

The view from up there is one of the best in the city. Rooftops, castle, everything in front of you. Definitely worth the walk.

From here, continue towards the Carmo Archaeological Museum.

It’s set inside the ruins of an old church that was partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The roof was never rebuilt, so you’re walking through these open arches with the sky above you. It’s a bit different from the usual museums, and honestly, even just seeing it from the outside is worth the stop.

Right after that, you’ll reach the Santa Justa Lift.

You’ll definitely notice it, it’s that tall iron elevator that looks a bit out of place in the middle of Lisbon. It connects the lower streets with the upper part of the city. You can go up, but the lines are usually long, so we just looked at it and moved on. Now there is apparently a way to go up, without the lift, but we still haven figured it out, we’ll keep you updated!

Midday: Chiado & lunch

From here, you’re already in the Chiado area, so it’s a good moment to stop by Livraria Bertrand.

It’s the oldest operating bookstore in the world, which sounds impressive, and it is… but it also gets very crowded. If it’s calm, go in. If not, just peek inside and continue.

For lunch, head down to Time Out Market.

It’s busy, but the food is actually really good. You’ve got a lot of options in one place, so it’s easy to find something you like. There is local food, international cuisine, pastel de nata, of course! And the space is gorgeous to hang out.

Afternoon: river walk & classic postcard Lisbon

After lunch, walk towards the river.

This part is really nice, fresh air, pretty views and a bit of a break from the narrow crowded streets.

You’ll pass by:

• Cais das Colunas, simple steps by the water where people just sit and relax
• Praça do Comércio, the big main square

Enjoy the square and the views, sometimes the put the iconic Lisbon sign here which is great for that postcard photo. And if some sellers approach you, just ignore them.

Before heading uphill again, stop at Gelateria La Romana dal 1947.

Honestly, one of the best gelatos we had in Lisbon. At this point in the day, you’ve earned it.

Afternoon: Alfama & views again

Now head towards Lisbon Cathedral (Sé). It’s the oldest church in the city, and you’ll probably pass it naturally on your way into Alfama, the most “Lisbon” part of the city. If you catch the yellow tram passing bye, snap that iconic photo.

From here, just keep walking uphill. You’ll reach two gorgeous viewpoints:

• Miradouro de Santa Luzia
• and then continue towards Castelo de São Jorge

This part of Lisbon feels completely different. Narrow streets, a bit messy, but really interesting and super colourful.

Take your time here. No need to rush. Just enjoy the walks and views.

If you want you can continue up and reach Castelo de São Jorge and enjoy some history or even better views of the city from above.

Evening: dinner with fado

And now, the special part, for dinner, go to Canto da Atalaia. This is where you end the day properly, Portuguese style. It’s a place with amazing local dishes, live Fado music, and that whole atmosphere Lisbon is known for. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, you’ll get the feeling.

After dinner, time for everyone favourite, pastel de nata. We think that the best ones are at Manteigaria. They are warm, creamy, with a hint of cinnamon.

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

Lisbon is one of those cities you can visit pretty much all year round.

We’ve been in April and November (both early and late November), and every time the weather was really pleasant. Warm during the day, a bit cooler in the evening, but overall very comfortable for walking around. Most days we were in short sleeves., forgot to put sunscreen, don’t be like us.

Summer is great if you want guaranteed sun, but it gets hot and crowded. And with all the hills, it can be a bit much in the middle of the day, and you end up catching your breath more than usual.

Spring, autumn, even winter, Lisbon is always pretty and alway a bit warmer than the rest of European cities.

How to Get Around Lisbon

Getting around Lisbon is actually really easy.

The metro is great, and the best part is you can just tap your credit card and pay as you go. No need to figure out tickets or machines.

There are also trams, which are fun to use at least once, especially the classic yellow trams.

But honestly, you’ll be walking a lot. A lot.

There’s no way around it. Lisbon is built on hills, so expect a lot of up and down. Good shoes are a must, otherwise you’ll feel it very quickly. So, good shoes, water and you’ll be good.

I don’t know why, but Lisbon just keeps growing on us.

Every time we come back, we like it a bit more. Maybe it’s the food, maybe the views, or maybe it’s just an excuse to come back for another pastel de nata… or breakfast at Shakar. That alone is probably reason enough.

We’re pretty sure this won’t be our last time here.

Hope you enjoy Lisbon as much as we did.

Until next time, be mesmerized ❤️