This Lisbon itinerary is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without rushing,...
Read MoreOne Day in Lisbon Itinerary – What to See, Eat & Explore in 24 Hours
A Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
.
Only have one day in Lisbon? Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in Portugal’s vibrant and sun-soaked capital. After Athens, Lisbon is the southernmost capital in Europe, so even in January the sun is still strong. Lisbon is a city rich in history, with more than 40 interesting museums and famous for its nightlife.
Planning to spend one day in Lisbon? Even in a single day, you can experience the charm of Portugal’s sunniest capital. From historic neighborhoods and scenic viewpoints to iconic trams and sweet custard tarts, Lisbon is packed with character and surprises at every turn. Whether you’re stopping over, on a business trip, or short on time, this itinerary covers all the highlights — and it’s easy to follow on foot or by public transport.
For a longer visit or a driving tour, Sintra, Cascais and the westernmost point of continental Europe are unmissable!
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.
Useful information
When to Visit Lisbon?
With around 290 sunny days a year, Lisbon is a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather, while summer can get quite hot and crowded. Winters are mild but often cloudy or rainy. So, the best time to visit Lisbon is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is warm and sunny, but the city is less crowded. For a quick visit, the 24-hour Carris/Metro pass is your best friend.
Tip: Try to book accommodation near a metro station for easier access.
Public transport
Lisbon is best discovered on foot, but trams and funiculars help save time (and energy!) in this hilly city. If you’re arriving from the airport, take the red (Vm) metro line, then transfer to the green (Vd) line toward the city center.
For a quick visit, the 24-hour Carris/Metro pass is your best friend — valid on trams, buses, metro, and funiculars for just €6.45 (+€0.50 card fee).
Where to stay in Lisbon
It’s a good idea to look for accommodation in the city center and if possible, near a metro station so you can buy a 24-hour Carris ticket. If you are staying for several days, choose a budget hotel a little further from the centre, but still within walking distance.
- Santa Luzia B&B – HOrigem in the Alfama district. If you’re looking for affordable, well-located accommodation, I recommend Santa Luzia B&B. This stylish guesthouse offers minimalist, renovated rooms — perfect for couples.
- Hotel Florescente located on a quiet street near Avenida da Liberdade. This budget hotel offers simple but comfortable rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a rooftop terrace — all at a great price. Ideal for first-time visitors who want central access without overpaying.
Are you looking for a 4- or 5-star hotel with an excellent rating?
Choose Pestana, the Portuguese hotel chain!
With five decades of history, the Pestana Hotel Group is the largest Portuguese multinational group in the tourism industry. The hotel chain opened its first hotel in Madeira in 1972, the Pestana Carlton Madeira. Currently it also offers accommodation in other the European countries, as well as in America and Africa, with more than 100 hotels and 12,000 rooms. Are you looking for a Pestana Hotel in Lisbon? Check out these suggestions.
One Day in Lisbon - Map
One Day in Lisbon - Full Itinerary
If you are coming to Portugal’s capital for more than just one day, you can split the itinerary below into several days.
1. Belém District – Morning by the River
Start your day in Belém, a historic district west of the center. Take tram 15E or buses 728/729. Along the way, look out for the April 25 Bridge and the towering Cristo Rei statue across the river.
Choose between the Belém Tower or the Monument to the Discoveries for your sightseeing stop, then don’t miss the world-famous Pastéis de Belém bakery — home of the original custard tart!
Top sights:
Pro tip - Free Tours in Lisbon
Join a free walking tour with Freetour.com and explore like a local!
Looking for a fun, affordable, and authentic way to discover a new city? Freetour offers a wide range of free walking tours led by passionate local guides — many of whom are independent, freelance professionals. Tours are usually held in English or the guide’s native language, and they’re a fantastic way to meet people and get a deeper understanding of the city’s history, culture, and daily life.
There’s no fixed price — you simply tip the guide at the end based on what you can afford and how much you enjoyed the experience. It’s flexible, fair, and fun!
Browse all free walking tours in Lisbon here: Freetour – Lisbon
2. Chiado & Time Out Market – Midday Food & Culture
Hop back on the tram (Jerónimos stop) and get off at Cais do Sodré. This brings you into the vibrant Chiado district. Just steps away is the Time Out Market, a must-visit for foodies! Sample Portuguese dishes, then walk a few minutes to find the hidden Bica Funicular entrance (included in your 24-hour pass). The Funicular will take you to the Bairro Alto district.
Top sights:
Time Out Market
Bica Funicular (Line 53E)
Chiado neighborhood
3. Bairro Alto & Miradouros – Afternoon Views
Cross through Bairro Alto, a sleepy neighborhood by day, party hub by night. Walk to the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint, one of the most beautiful terraces overlooking downtown Lisbon and the river. From here, take the historic Glória Funicular down to Restauradores Square (also covered by your pass). Before you sit down to relax in the park, check the funicular timetable so you don’t have to wait long.
Schedule 51E – Ascensor Glória
Top sights:
Bairro Alto
São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint
Glória Funicular (Line 51E)
4. Baixa District – Classic Lisbon Charm
Once down at Restauradores, head to Rossio Square and stroll along Rua Augusta, Lisbon’s lively shopping street. On the walk, stop at the ‘Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau’ and try the salt cod fish cake!
Stop by the iconic Santa Justa Lift (included with your pass) for great views. Continue under the Rua Augusta Arch to reach the grand Praça do Comércio, right on the riverfront.
Schedule Santa Justa Lift (Line 54E)
Top sights:
Rossio Square
Santa Justa Lift (Line 54E)
Rua Augusta Arch – book now the ticket to the top
Praça do Comércio
5. Alfama – Evening in the Oldest District
End your day in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most soulful neighborhood. Either walk or take trams 12E or 28E. Stop at the Lisbon Cathedral and enjoy sunset at the Santa Luzia or Miradouro das Portas do Sol viewpoint. If you still have energy, visit São Jorge Castle or the free Graça viewpoint. This lookout is a favourite spot for artists painting the city. With its café and view of the castle, it is a very popular meeting point where locals and tourists mix from morning to night.
Schedule Tram 12E and Schedule Tram 28E
Top sights:
Lisbon Cathedral (Sé)
Santa Luzia viewpoint
São Jorge Castle – book your entry ticket with audio guide
Miradouro da Graça
Got More Time?
If you can stay longer than just one day in Lisbon, don’t miss out on exploring Sintra, Cascais, or Cabo da Roca — the westernmost point of continental Europe. These make for fantastic day trips!
Don’t Miss: Calçada Portuguesa
As you explore, keep an eye on the ground — Portuguese mosaic pavements (calçada portuguesa) are everywhere! These hand-laid stone tiles create artistic black-and-white patterns throughout the city, especially along the Avenida da Liberdade and Rossio Square.
Exploring Lisbon on foot is always recommended, but for a day trip it’s worth hopping on one of the famous trams to save time. Depending on the location of your accommodation, you can also do it in reverse.
Of course, there are many other attractions and places of interest in this unique city, so if you can, don’t just take a day to explore Lisbon.
Need help planning your trip?
.
Here are my favourite sites to use when planning my trips:
.
Find your flight: Kiwi or use the airline’s direct website
Book your Hotel: Booking.com and Airbnb
Search for a rental car: Discovercars
Stay Connected Anywhere: Airalo eSIM
Book an unforgettable experiences: GetYourGuide website.
Source: Wandering Linda
Photos: Wandering Linda
Affiliate Program: Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a small commission on sales generated through this website. This doesn’t increase the price of the service, so if you found my post useful, you’re welcome to start your booking from the link above. Thank you very much for your support!
Related post
Alfama District – The Most Charming Neighborhood in Lisbon
Alfama District – The Most Charming Neighborhood in Lisbon Alfama is Lisbon ’s oldest and...
Read More
One Day in Lisbon Itinerary – What to See & Do in 24 Hours
One Day in Lisbon Itinerary – What to See, Eat & Explore in 24 Hours...
Read More
