After a soul-enriching journey in Marrakech (check out my blog series if you plan to visit Marrakech too!), I jetted off to the vibrant city of Lisbon for 5 days of exploration, discovery, and delicious eateries.
If you haven’t already, check out my other blogs about pre-travel tips & advice and must-try local eats to make the most of your time in Lisbon.
🧭 Itinerary
Day 1
- Explore Parque das Nações, a modern area of Lisbon built for the 1998 World Expo.
- Check out the Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium), Europe’s largest indoor aquarium, and take a stroll along the waterfront promenade. 🐠
Day 2
- Start the second day at Praça do Comércio, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. 📸
- Learn about the history of Lisbon and Portugal at Lisbon History Centre and Centro Interpretativo da História do Bacalhau (Bacalhau Museum). 🐟
- Grab lunch at the vibrant Time Out Market, sample a variety of Portuguese cuisine. 🍴
- Enjoy the views at Arco da Rua Augusta and take a stroll along Rua Augusta. 🏙️
- Explore the lively Baixa District, Lisbon’s historic heart and commercial center, and take a ride on the Santa Justa Lift. 🚡
- End the day at Praça Dom Pedro IV, the main central square of Lisbon.
Day 3
- Visit the historic Belém Tower and enjoy the stunning river views.
- Marvel at the stunning architecture of Jerónimos Monastery, inside which lies the tomb of Vasco da Gama. ⛪
- Learn about more stories about Portugal at Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries).
- Taste the famous Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese custard tart) at Pastéis de Belém bakery, allegedly the inventor of the egg tart. 🥧
- Discover the world’s largest collection of royal coaches at National Coach Museum.
- Enjoy the unique views of the 25 de Abril Bridge at Pilar 7 – Bridge Experience. 🌉
- Visit LX Factory, a creative hub with shops, cafes, and street art.
Day 4
- Ride the iconic Tram 28 through the city’s historic neighborhoods. 🚋
- Enjoy the scenic views at Miradouro de Santa Luzia. 🌅
- Visit the historic Castelo de S. Jorge and stroll through the Alfama District.
- Learn about the art of Portuguese tiles at National Tile Museum.
- Walk through the lively Chiado District and Bairro Alto District in the evening, experience Lisbon’s nightlife with a traditional Fado performance.
Day 5
- Spend the last day shopping for souvenirs.
Other Activities to Consider:
- Day Trip to Sintra: If time allows, visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fairytale palaces and lush gardens. Don’t miss Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
- Sunset at Miradouros: End your days with breathtaking sunset views from one of Lisbon’s many viewpoints. Popular spots include Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro de Santa Catarina.
💡 Travel Tip #1: Don’t forget to pre-order your Lisbon Card on Expedia for hassle-free exploration and discounts on attractions!
💡 Travel Tip #2: If you have a layover in Lisbon with some spare hours, consider storing your luggage in the lockers outside the airport building. Visit here for more details.
Feel free to save this visual Google Map for easy planning and navigation:
👛 Expense Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of my expenses during the trip:
| Category | Activity | Date | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Toronto – Lisbon | 5/8 – 5/17 | CA$678.86 |
| Stay | Stay in Lisbon | 5/13 – 5/17 | CA$457.64 |
| Activity | Lisbon Card 3-Day | 5/14-5/16 | CA$79.24 |
| Transportation | Lisbon Metro | 5/9 | CA$7.00 |
| Network | eSIM Portugal | 5/14 – 5/17 | CA$6.97 |
| Eat | Meals and snacks | 5/14 – 5/17 | CA$150.00 |
| Shopping | Souvenirs | 5/16 | CA$7.50 |
| TOTAL | CA$1,387.21 |
Download Your Travel Planner Template
To make your trip planning even easier, I’ve created a comprehensive Notion travel planner template for Lisbon. This planner includes travel tips, flight schedule templates, packing lists, transportation tips, must-see attractions, recommended eats, an expense tracker, and an embedded Google Map Itinerary with all the essential location pins.
Get Your Planner Here: 🚃 Lisbon, Portugal 5-Day Travel Itinerary Planner
Planning a solo trip to Lisbon is exciting! With this itinerary and expense breakdown, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful city. Happy travels! 🇵🇹✈️
