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One Day in Lisbon: How to Spend the Perfect 24 Hours in Lisbon

Lisbon is an utterly bewitching city, extremely picturesque, draped across its seven hills, and overlooking the wide blue expanse of the River Tagus, with wonderful viewpoints. With its hilly terrain, quaint old neighborhoods, great museums, fantastic culinary scene, and lively but laid-back atmosphere, there’s a lot to love about this city. If you’ve got only one day in Lisbon, we’ve got you well covered with our itinerary. Read on to discover how to see the 13 best things to do in Lisbon in one day.

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Is One Day in Lisbon Enough?

No way! With just one day in Lisbon, you’ll barely scratch the surface of what this amazing city has to offer. A first-time visitor could easily spend 5-7 days in Lisbon and experience the treasure trove of things to see and do.

However, if 24 hours in Lisbon is all you have, you can indeed get a fantastic glimpse of Lisbon with some pre-planning and itinerant lust.

Getting To Lisbon

If you’re traveling to Lisbon by air, you’ll be flying to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), formerly known as Portela Airport. The airport is located 7 km (4 miles) north of Lisbon’s city center.

The easiest and quickest way to get from Lisbon Airport to the city center is by taking the metro (Aeroporto – Saldanha line), which takes you to downtown Lisbon in 20 minutes. A single ticket costs 1.65 EUR with the ‘Viva Viagem’ electronic travel card (0.50 EUR).

The Carristur-operated AeroBus departs from outside the arrivals hall roughly every 20 minutes from 7:00–23:00. It stops at major points in the city center via Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade, Restauradores, Rossio, and Praça do Comércio to Cais do Sodré (25 to 35 minutes). Tickets cost 3.60 EUR and can be purchased on board.

Several bus lines (705, 722, 744, and 783) stop at the Lisbon Airport arrivals terminal, taking you to different parts of the city. However, the maximum baggage size allowed in these buses is 50x40x20cm. If your baggage exceeds this size, you must take the Aerobus. Tickets cost 2 EUR.

A taxi into central Lisbon from Libon Airport should cost around 15 EUR, plus additional luggage/pet fees depending on the driver. Taxis can be found outside the departures and arrivals terminals. Make sure the taxi meter is turned on at the beginning of the journey and always ask for a receipt.

Probably the most comfortable way to get to and from Lisbon Airport and the city center is by taking a private/shared transfer which will take you directly to/from your Lisbon hotel.

How to Get Around Lisbon in One Day

Wandering on foot remains the best way to explore Lisbon’s neighborhoods and stumble upon hidden gems. Despite being located on seven hills, Lisbon is a pedestrian-friendly city and you will truly appreciate its charm by walking.

However, as Lisbon is quite spread out, walking the whole city is not recommended. The best way to get around Lisbon is by the well-functioning public transportation system, especially if you have only 24 hours in the city.

Thus, for this one-day itinerary of Lisbon, we recommend both walking and using public transport.

PRO TIP

A large chunk of Lisbon’s sidewalks are made out of easily damaged basalt cobblestone meaning there are numerous cracks along the way. It would be optimum to stick with a comfortable pair of flat shoes rather than heels as they can get stuck in the pavement.

The fastest and cheapest way to get around Lisbon using public transport is by the metro (Metropolitano). Metro stations are signposted with a red “M”, and the service operates from 06:30 to 01:00 every day.

Buses have the most extensive network, while trams offer good sightseeing opportunities. The only downside is that both are prone to delays due to heavy traffic congestion.

Three historic funiculars (Glória, Bica, and Lavra) can also be used to go up some of Lisbon’s steepest hills.

Single-trip paper tickets for buses (2 EUR), trams (3 EUR), and funiculars (3.80 EUR/2 trips) can be bought upon boarding.

However, the most practical option for using public transport in Lisbon is to buy an electronic smart card called the Viva Viagem Card on which tickets are loaded.

Viva Viagem cards cost 0.50 EUR and can be purchased from ticket vending machines at metro stations, ticket offices at major stations in the Lisbon metropolitan area, and some railway stations, shops, and newsagents.

Once you have the Viva Viagem Card, you can load a single ticket or a 1 day (24-hour) ticket on it. A single ticket costs 1.65 EUR and is valid for unlimited journeys on public transport for 60 minutes following the first validation.

A 24-hour public transport ticket in Lisbon costs 6.60 EUR. Both the single ticket and the 1-day ticket can be purchased at ticket machines.

Make use of the very useful intermodal Journey Planner for getting around Lisbon with public transport.

Taxis are also another option as they offer the swiftest way to get around. The minimum charge is 3.25 EUR during the day and 3.90 EUR at night. Prices increase at around 50 cents a kilometer. Always insist on the taximeter as it is required by law.

Just be careful not to get ripped off as scams are quite common. Uber also has a significant presence in Lisbon and can be another alternative to get around.

Lisbon is by no means a very bicycle-friendly city due to its cobbled streets, hilly terrain, and the paucity of dedicated bike lanes. However, you can always get an e-bike, and routes along the waterfront are mostly flat and largely traffic-free.

In case you’re interested in seeing the highlights of Lisbon on a bike, check out this excellent Lisbon E-Bike Tour.

If you’re not up for a long walk or cycle around Lisbon, you could also get around on a segway, which can cover a larger area than a walk-around. In case you’re interested in seeing the highlights of Lisbon on a segway, check out this fantastic Lisbon Segway Tour.

Since Lisbon is so hilly, tuk-tuks are a convenient and fun way to see the city. If you’re interested in seeing the top sights of Lisbon on a tuk-tuk, check out this wildly popular Lisbon Tuk-Tuk Sightseeing Tour.

For those craving an audio guide and extra comfort, you can also get around the city with Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Tour.

Is the Lisbon Card Worth it for One Day?

The Lisbon Card is an all-inclusive city card that gives you free entry and discounts to more than 30 of the top attractions and museums in Lisbon. The Lisbon Card also includes unlimited free travel unlimited travel by public transport (buses, trams, metro, elevators, and funiculars).

When spending one day in Lisbon, it might be a good idea to invest in the Lisbon Card. It offers free entrance to all but one of the attractions that we’ve listed in our itinerary.

So, if you’re planning on going inside the sights we’ve listed, I would say that the Lisbon Card is worth it for one day.

Your One Day in Lisbon Itinerary: 13 Best Things To Do in Lisbon

For this one day in Lisbon itinerary, I have included some of the major attractions and sights in the city.

For your convenience, this post includes a free map that highlights the main points of interest in Lisbon for one day. You can find the addresses of the attractions by clicking on the icons in the map.

I understand that everyone travels at a different pace so feel free to choose the destinations according to your own pace. The earlier you start your day the more time you’ll have to see the attractions.

Below I have compiled a list of the best things to see (or eat) in Lisbon over the course of one day:

  1. Pastéis de Belém
  2. Jerónimos Monastery
  3. Monument to the Discoveries
  4. Belém Tower
  5. Lunch at Time Out Market
  6. Rossio Square
  7. Santa Justa Lift
  8. Rua Augusta
  9. Commerce Square
  10. Roam the Alfama District
  11. Castle of St. George
  12. Hop aboard the iconic Tram 28
  13. Dinner

1. Pastéis de Belém

One day in Lisbon: Several pieces of pastel de nata, a creamy, flaky egg tart custard pastry.

Start your one day in Lisbon by treating yourself to Portugal’s favorite sugar rush, the pastel de nata, a creamy, flaky egg tart custard pastry.

The crisp pastry nests are filled with custard cream, baked at 200°C for the ideal golden crust, then lightly dusted with cinnamon. It’s sort of like a crème brulée tart.

Pastel de Nata is a ubiquitous fixture throughout bakeries and cafes in Lisbon. Supposedly, the best ones can be found in the renowned Pastéis de Belém bakery. Here the tarts are known as Pastéis de Belém, they claim all other variations are mere imitations.

Pastel de Nata’s history is interlaced with the Belém neighborhood in which it emanated. Monks from the nearby Jerónimos Monastery originally sold the treat at a local sugar refinery in the 18th century.

In 1837, the pastry began to be produced at Pastéis de Belém using the same recipe that is still used today. It is literally sugar-coated nirvana and you have to try it while you’re in Lisbon!

FUN FACT

The original recipe of the iconic egg tart has been handed down from generation to generation at Pastéis de Belém. Only a handful of people in the world know this recipe and they aren’t permitted to travel together.

One additional reason to visit Pastéis de Belém is that the bakery itself is beautiful from the inside with its blue-white azulejos.

Pastéis de Belém is open daily between 08:00-20:00. There’s always a big queue at the famous establishment. It’s well worth the wait though because the pastel de nata sold here is so mouthwateringly scrumptious!

PRO TIP

Don’t be put off by the long queue at the establishment since the larger chunk of the queue is actually for takeaway orders. It’s actually easier to get a table than a takeaway box!

2. Jerónimos Monastery

Things to see in Lisbon: The exquisite Manueline-style Jeronimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery (or Hieronymites Monastery) is one of the best things to see in Lisbon and undisputedly the major attraction in the Belém district. The fairytale-like monastery was built in celebration of Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India and is deservingly a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begun in 1502, and more or less completed when its funding was withdrawn in 1551, the monastery is the most enthusiastic and triumphant achievement of Manueline architecture. 

24 Hours in Lisbon: The cavernous well-lit nave of the Jeronimos Monastery

Jerónimos is a celebration of Portugal’s territorial expansion and an expression of a unique national style. Jerónimos is the resting place of many notable Portuguese statesmen including Vasco da Gama himself.

During this time it was a symbol of wealth and power and it is sure to leave you impressed even today.

When you enter the well-lit nave of the church, the most striking feature of Jerónimos, you’ll immediately feel a sense of immense space and your eyes will be drawn to the slender tree-trunk-like pillars, entwined with characteristic Manueline carved ropes and exotic flora.

I really loved the distinctive use of rounded forms and naturalistic motifs in the bands around the windows.

24 Hours in Lisbon: The intricately carved double cloister of the Jeronimos Monastery. PC: tak.wing [CC BY-SA 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.

As beautiful as the nave was, the highlight of the Jerónimos Monastery for me was the amazing double cloister. Vaulted throughout and fantastically embellished, it blends Gothic forms and Renaissance ornamentation and is extremely lovely.

Typical Manueline motifs such as ropes, foliage, exotic animals, and navigational instruments adorn the arches and balustrades.

Another noteworthy attraction here is the elaborate south portal, a spectacle of lacy stonework. The carvings of the Virgin of Bethlehem surrounded by angels, rich floral details, and scenes from the life of St. Jerome are exquisite.

Jerónimos Monastery is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00-17:30 (October-April) and 09:30-18:00 (May-September). The entrance costs 10 EUR.

I highly recommend buying the skip-the-line ticket as the queues at the Jerónimos Monastery are extremely long and you will save time.

3. Monument to the Discoveries

Things to see in Lisbon: Monument to the Discoveries, a lovely frieze of 33 historical figures.

As long as you’re in the Belém district you should also quickly see the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos), situated just across the street from Jerónimos Monastery.

This angular concrete landmark in the shape of a caravel was erected in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator.

A lovely frieze of 33 historical figures – explorers, cartographers, artists, scientists, and missionaries is set along both sides of the monument. At the prow is Henry, while behind him are explorers Vasco da Gama, Diogo Cão, Fernão de Magalhães (Ferdinand Magellan), and 29 other greats.

There is a map of the world in multicolored marble on the floor in front of the memorial, with the dates of the discoveries set in metal. The setting of the monument next to the Tagus River is ideal for great pictures.

Since you have only 24 hours in Lisbon, you can just admire the monument from the outside and skip going inside.

HISTORY 101: THE AGE OF DISCOVERY

Portugal’s golden era conquest and maritime exploration (The Age of Discovery) took place during the 15th and 16th centuries, with the aim of finding new trade and Christianizing the Muslims to the south. Vast fortunes were earned through maritime expeditions into the Atlantic and from the gold and slaves taken from the Guinea coast, but the real breakthrough for Portuguese imperialism came about in 1498 when Vasco da Gama reached India. Rounding the Cape of Good Hope, he proved Columbus wrong and gave the Portuguese the competitive edge in the spice trade. By controlling the Indian Ocean and the spice trade, the Portuguese established an eastern capital in Goa. With the acquisition of Brazil, Portugal became a mercantile super-power and was rivalled only by its neighbor Spain.

4. Belém Tower

Lisbon points of interest: The famous multi-turreted Belem Tower

No day of Lisbon sightseeing would be complete without seeing the magnificent Belém Tower (Torre de Belém). Just like the Jerónimos Monastery, it is also a great symbol of Portugal’s amazing Age Of Discovery during the 16th century.

This multi-turreted and exuberant tower was initially built in 1515 as a ceremonial gateway in honor of Vasco da Gama’s voyages of discovery. It also doubled as a fortress that guarded the entrance to Lisbon harbor.

Make sure to look out for the ornate façade which is embellished with fanciful maritime and floral motifs. Moorish influence is very strong in the delicately arched windows and balconies.

The domes of the Moorish-influenced watchtowers are seated on Manueline rope-like circles and rise to a pile of small spheres that are reminiscent of the tops of chess pieces.

Prominent also in the decoration are two great symbols of the age: Manuel’s personal badge of an armillary sphere and the cross of the Military Order of Christ, once the Templars, who took a major role in all Portuguese conquests.

Though worth entering for the views from the roof, the tower’s interior is rather unremarkable except for the elegant arcaded Renaissance loggia.

Belem Tower is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00-17:30 (October-April) and 09:30-18:00 (May-September). The entrance costs 6 EUR. Consider buying the skip-the-line ticket in order to save some time.

5. Lunch at Time Out Market

One Day in Lisbon: Panoramic view of the sprawling Time Out Food Market,

During your one day in Lisbon, you will be in need of good nourishment. Take a well-deserved lunch break at Time Out Market.

This wonderful venue is a food lover’s paradise and one of the must-see attractions in Lisbon. An independent panel of city experts is in charge of overseeing the food stalls ensuring a high quality of food.

There are over 40 stalls here from top chefs with Portuguese cuisine as well as more international options. You can get everything here from seafood to steak sandwiches, sushi to chocolate, and desserts. There is also a nice selection of wine and beer.

Time Out Market is open daily. It is open from 10:00-24:00 (Sunday-Thursday) and 10:00-01:00 (Friday-Saturday). Don’t miss out on it!

6. Rossio Square

One Day in Lisbon: Wave-like mosaic pavement and ornate Baroque fountain in Rossio Square.

Your next stop will be Rossio Square, officially known as the Plaza Don Pedro IV. It is the nerve center of the city and a popular meeting point among the locals.

Over its long history, Rossio Square has been the scene of bullfights, festivals, military parades, and witnessed the burning of heretics during the Inquisition. The unusual wave-like mosaic pavement, which alternates between lighter and darker stone, left me dizzy with appreciation.

Two ornate Baroque fountains are some of the best features of the square and its center is dominated by a statue of Dom Pedro IV (a former Portuguese king and the first emperor of Brazil), perched high on a marble pedestal.

In the buildings surrounding the church, there are mainly catering establishments and shops. This gives the square a lively appearance.

Rossio Square is just fantastic for people-watching while sipping a cup of coffee or some chilled suds.

You can also quickly check out Rossio Station (Estação do Rossio), which lies to the northwest of Rossio Square. Looking more like a lavishly-adorned palace than a station, Rossio Station is a lovely neo-Manueline building with horseshoe-shaped arches and swirly turrets.

7. Santa Justa Lift

Things to do in Lisbon: The lovely Neo-Gothic style Santa Justa Lift

The Neo-Gothic Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) is one of my favorite things to see in Lisbon.

This architectural wonder is arguably the quirkiest landmark in the Lisbon skyline. It was built at the turn of the 20th century by the French architect Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a protégé of Gustave Eiffel.

It’s Lisbon’s sole vertical street lift and was steam-powered until 1907. The body of the tower is made of iron and embellished with lovely filigree motifs. Passengers can travel up and down the innards of a latticework iron tower to a viewing platform.

PRO TIP

Don’t waste your time riding up the elevator even though it’s a popular thing to do. The queues to ride the lift are very long and the waiting time is painstakingly slow (usually over an hour). The ride itself is 10 seconds and just like any other lift you’ve ever been in. On top of that, it costs over 5 EUR. I do, however, recommend going up to the platform for some sublime views of Lisbon. You can either walk up the streets and access it from a passage next to the church or you can access it via a regular elevator (no cost to get up) through a small shop in the building behind Santa Justa Lift. The entrance to the platform costs 1.50 EUR.

8. Rua Augusta

One Day in Lisbon: People walking on Rua Augusta, a popular pedestrian-only street.

Make your way down Rua Augusta, one of the best-known streets in Lisbon that is home to a number of large international stores and catering joints.

At the end of Rua Augusta is the beautiful Arco da Rua Augusta arch that was built in memory of the 1755 earthquake. Since it is closed to traffic, Rua Augusta is abuzz with restaurant terraces, street artists, and music.

HISTORY 101: THE 1755 LISBON EARTHQUAKE

On the morning of the 1st of November, 1755, Lisbon suffered a massive earthquake, reducing over half the city to rubble. Although the epicenter was close to the Algarve, the huge waves from the ensuing tsunami flooded the lower part of Lisbon. Candles lit for All Saints’ Day were knocked over resulting in flames that ignited the city’s churches and causing a fire that raged for seven days. Churches, homes, and public buildings all suffered in the disaster. It was one of the most powerful earthquakes of all time and the shock was felt as far away as Italy. Estimates place the death toll between 10,000 and 100,000 people in Lisbon alone. However, the reconstruction of the center of Lisbon took place rapidly. The famous Portuguese statesman, Marquês de Pombal, was responsible for coming up with an innovative grid system, that can still be seen today.

9. Commerce Square

24 Hours in Lisbon: Statue of King José I on horseback in the center of Commerce Square

Next up on this ‘one day in Lisbon’ itinerary is Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio), the largest and most famous square in Lisbon. The square was rebuilt in the eighteenth century, after the earthquake of 1755, and was previously called the Palace Square since it housed the royal palace.

Plenty of great photo opportunities in this idyllic square such as the monumental triumphal arch and a towering statue of King José I on horseback in the center.

Similar to Rossio Square, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants surrounding the square. Commerce Square leads elegantly down to the banks of the Rio Tejo, a great place for strolling, reading, or sipping coffee.

You can explore the riverfront and marvel at the square’s 18th-century arcades and Pombaline architecture. Today, the vast open space of Commerce Square is used for cultural events and festivals.

10. Roam the Alfama District

Lisbon sightseeing: A lovely courtyard featuring azulejos in the Alfama district

One of the best things to do in Lisbon is simply to explore the enchanting Alfama district. It is the oldest district of Lisbon and therefore also forms a large part of the historic center of the city.

The Alfama has a storied history since it was first occupied by the Romans and Visigoths in the early 4th century and then by the Moors in the 8th century before the Portuguese took back control.

Alfama was buttressed against significant damage in the 1755 earthquake by the steep, rocky mass on which it is built.

Lisbon Alfama: A lovely little cobblestone alley with azulejos

Although there are no Moorish houses still standing, the quarter retains its kasbah-like layout. The winding streets of the Alfama are filled with tourists all year round who flock here to see the many attractions.

A walk around the maze of crooked alleyways will accord you glimpses of the jumble of dilapidated houses, picturesque corners, and shady terraces. You will often come across locals hanging washing between the tightly packed houses.

Alfama is also famous for its many houses with beautiful Portuguese tiles (azulejos) and for its association with fado, Portugal’s mournful style of music that was born here.

The Alfama district is Lisbon at its most romantic and finest. Getting lost amid its labyrinthine alleys and taking in the atmosphere is a must-do in Lisbon.

In case you’re interested in getting an inside scoop on the Alfama and discovering secret corners, check out this amazing Alfama District Walking Tour.

FUN FACT

Lisbon is commonly known as the “city of seven hills” by locals. However, this is actually disputed and some say it’s a myth, and that Lisbon actually has eight hills. Many believe that the reason for calling Lisbon the “city of seven hills” was that it would make it more similar to Rome and thus of more importance, despite the fact that Lisbon is reckoned to be older than the city of Rome. No matter if they are seven or eight, it is a fact that Lisbon’s hills add to all its allure.

11. Castle of St. George

What to see in Lisbon: Fortifications of the Castle of St. George. PC: StockPhotosArt/shutterstock.com

The Castle of St. George (Castelo de São Jorge) is one of the major points of interest in Lisbon.

The oldest parts of the castle date from the 6th century and this is where the history of Lisbon began. It served the Romans, Visigoths, and the Moors as a base for further conquests.

The castle was then used as a Moorish royal residence until Portugal’s first king, Alfonso Henriques, took control over it in 1147. Except for a short period, it served its time as a barracks and prison until 1938, when it was freed from any official duties.

The walls, 10 towers, shaded gardens, and fountains are all that is left of the castle. Apart from the sublime views and the chance to wander the ramparts, the castle is worth a visit for the park gardens inside its walls.

The castle museum contains an array of artifacts such as Iron Age pottery, Roman wine vessels, medieval oil lamps, and 17th-century azulejos.

The Castle of St. George is open daily from 09:00-21:00 (March-October) and 09:00-19:00 (November-February). The entrance costs 10 EUR.

12. Hop aboard the iconic Tram 28

One day in Lisbon: The famous vintage tram 28 running through the old town.

No 24 hours in Lisbon would be complete without a ride on the famous Tram 28, one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon.

Running between Martim Moniz Square and Campo de Ourique (near Prazeres Cemetery), Tram 28 is one of the only three charming, pre-World War I models that still operate in the city. It is known for its polished wooden interiors and bright yellow paintwork.

The tram trundles and creaks its way through some of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods of Lisbon like Baixa, Chiado, Graca, and of course, Alfama. It gives you a splendid vista of many of Lisbon’s renowned gardens, churches, and monuments along the way.

Tram 28 runs daily from about 05:45-23:00. On average, Tram 28 runs every 10-12 minutes, and the full ride lasts 45-60 minutes. Tickets are 3 EUR for a single trip (free if you have a Lisbon Card or the 24-hour public transport ticket).

PRO TIP

The only drawback about Tram 28 is that it is always packed to the core and you will often have to scramble for getting a seat. Avoid getting on Tram 28 midway as you’ll never get a seat. The best chance of getting a seat is by boarding at one of the starting points (Campo de Ourique or Martim Moniz). Nearly everyone gets on at Martim Moniz and there’s invariably a long queue so we would recommend getting on at the other end, Campo de Ourique (near Prazeres Cemetery), where much fewer people board. Also, keep a close eye on valuables since tram 28 has an infamous reputation on which pickpockets chiefly target tourists.

13. Dinner

Cap off your one day in Lisbon by treating yourself to a fabulous dinner. There is no shortage of great eating establishments in Lisbon for all tastes.

But since you’re in Lisbon, it would be a sin not to seize on the opportunity to eat some mouth-watering seafood. Salted cod (bacalhau) is a Portuguese specialty so you might want to give it a shot.

For a fantastic meal go to Sacramento do Chiado or Da Prata 52, both of which are in the downtown area. A meal at either of these places is sure to leave you very content indeed!

More Than One Day in Lisbon?

We had to exclude many great sights from our 1 day Lisbon itinerary, such as the Gulbenkian Museum and the Park of the Nations. You can check out our guide to spending the perfect 3 days in Lisbon.

Although Lisbon is a beautiful city with plenty to explore, it is also worth exploring further. A number of the top attractions in Portugal are only a very short distance from Lisbon making it the perfect springboard for taking one (or more) day trips.

Though there are plenty of options, some of the best day trips from Lisbon are:

  • Sintra Highlights Full-Day Tour: The most popular day trip from Lisbon involves taking in the magical, palace-dotted landscape of Sintra (including the Pena Palace), which often feels like it has sprung from a storybook.
  • Fatima, Obidos, Batalha, and Nazaré Full-Day Tour: Another popular day trip from Lisbon involves venturing into the region of Central Portugal and visiting Fátima – a major center of global Catholic pilgrimage; Obidos – a picturesque walled town known for its whitewashed homes; Batalha – home to a famous UNESCO World Heritage medieval monastery; and Nazaré – a popular seaside resort.
  • Évora Full-Day Tour: You can also take a day trip to the medieval city of Évora, whose historic center (including the famous Roman Temple) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Knights Templar Full-Day Tour: An exciting day trip from Lisbon involves traveling to the villages of Constância and Tomar to discover the castles and history of the Knights Templar, the holy order of warrior monks.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

It’s handy to stay in the downtown districts of Bairro Alto, Baixa or the Alfama as they are a good base for sightseeing. There are plenty of good options here for all budgets.

Hostel: Home Lisbon Hostel, a great choice right in the heart of downtown

Budget: Hotel Gat Rossio, a solid option near Rossio train station

Mid-range: LX Boutique Hotel, within 2 minutes of the Cais do Sodre train station

Splurge: Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel, a sumptuous top-choice pick in the Alfama district

More Information About Portugal

Porto: Find out the best things to do in Porto in one day!


Now, what do you think? Is Lisbon on your bucket list? Or is there anything else that shouldn’t be missed during one day in Lisbon? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

About Mihir

Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).

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