Portugal 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon Highlights

This itinerary focuses on exploring the vibrant city of Lisbon, perfect for a first-time visitor wanting to experience the city’s history, culture, and delicious food.

Day 1: Historical Lisbon

  • Morning: Begin your journey at the heart of Lisbon’s historical charm -

    • Explore Alfama: Wander through the narrow, winding streets of this historic district, admiring its colorful buildings, traditional fado music venues, and charming squares. Visit the Alfama neighborhood, wander through the historic Alfama district, and explore landmarks like:
      • São Jorge Castle: Take in panoramic views of the city from this ancient Moorish fortress.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the past at: * Lisbon Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning architecture and history of this iconic landmark. * Jerónimos Monastery: A masterpiece of Manueline architecture, admire its intricate details and learn about Portugal’s golden age.

  • Evening: Experience the soul of Fado in a traditional tavern:

    • Dinner & a show: Enjoy a delicious Portuguese dinner and soak in the atmosphere of a “tasca” (traditional restaurant) while listening to a live fado performance.

Day 2: Lisbon’s Flavors

  • Morning: Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Lisbon by:

    • Visiting Mercado da Ribeira: This bustling market offers a variety of fresh seafood, pastries, and local delicacies.

  • Taking a cooking class: Learn to cook traditional Portuguese dishes like “bacalhau à Brás” or “pastel de nata” (see “Things to know” for tips on choosing a recipe).

  • Afternoon: Indulge in Lisbon’s sweet treats:

    • Taste the famous pastel de nata at Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém: A must-do experience while in Lisbon.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner and learn to cook some of the local specialties!

Day 3: Beyond the City

  • Morning: Explore the stunning beaches of Cascais or Estoril, charming coastal towns just a short train ride from Lisbon.

  • Visit a “fado museum” for a deeper understanding of this traditional music form.

  • Afternoon: Take a scenic tram ride to Lisbon’s historic Alfama district.

  • Enjoy the views and history: Hop on Tram 28 or 24 for a unique experience through Lisbon’s streets.

  • For a taste of “pastel de nata” (pasteis de nata) in a different setting, try visiting a traditional “tasca” in the Alfama district.

  • Enjoy a “pastel de nata” tasting and learn about its history:

    • Visit a local bakery: Experience fresh, authentic “pastéis de nata” and other delicious Portuguese pastries.
    • Find a hidden fado bar: Enjoy a more intimate experience while listening to the classic sounds of Fado music in a traditional setting.

Things to know:

  • Lisbon’s charm: Lisbon is a charming city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning views.
  • Enjoy a variety of “pastéis de nata” locations: Many restaurants offer “fado” tastings, often featuring traditional Portuguese dishes like “caldo verde” (kale soup) or “sardinhas assadas” (grilled sardines)

Things to do:

  • Explore the historic “fado” clubs and venues in Lisbon: Experience the history of this melancholic music genre in a classic “fado” tavern.

  • Enjoy the ambiance of a “tasca”:

  • Try a local pastry:

  • Enjoy a traditional “fado” dinner: Learn about the different types of pastries and how they are made.

  • Taste the difference: Try a variety of Portuguese pastries, such as “pastel de nata” (custard tarts), “pastel de bacalao” (a type of pastry filled with codfish), “bolo de bolacha” (cake with biscuit base)

Things to do for different tastes:

  • Traditional “fado” dishes:

  • **Try a “pastéis de nata”

  • (a traditional “pastel de nata” is a Portuguese pastry made of “pastel de nata”**,

  • Enjoy the vibrant “fado” music scene: Visit other “tascas” in the city to experience different styles of “fado” (like the “pastel de nata” museum for a deeper understanding of this culinary tradition.

  • Enjoy other traditional delicacies: Experience a variety of Portuguese dishes,

  • such as “pastéis de Belém” (a type of custard tart) and fresh seafood.

Day 3:

  • Visit the Alfama:

Enjoy a final traditional Portuguese meal in Lisbon. This might include:

  • Exploring the history:

of traditional “pastel de nata” and learning about its origins

  • Sampling different:
  • “Pastéis de nata” variations:

Try a variety of “pastel de nata” flavors, such as cinnamon, chocolate, or lemon.

Things to do for a “fado” experience:

Enjoy the traditional “pastéis de Belém” at a local cafe. Explore the Alfama district’s stunning architecture and history.**

  • Take a walk: through the historic streets of Lisbon, such as the Rua da Glória or the Alfama Museum.**

For a “fado” experience:

  • Try a traditional “fado” restaurant:

Enjoy the atmosphere of a “fados de Lisboa” (Portuguese fado restaurants)

  • Enjoy a variety:

of experiences.

  • Things to do:
  • Enjoy the history and culture of Lisbon’s “pastel de nata” scene.**
  • Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
  • or enjoy a “fado” performance in a traditional restaurant.

Things to consider:

  • Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa for Portugal based on your nationality.

Citizens of many countries can enter and stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without needing a visa, but it’s important to check the specific requirements for your situation.

  • Consider joining a “fado” tour: These tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of “fado” first-hand.

Travel Tips:

  • Transportation: Lisbon is easily walkable, but consider using public transportation like the historic trams, metro, or buses for longer distances.

  • “Fado” Recommendations:

  • Listen to traditional “fado” music:

  • Culture:

  • Immerse yourself in the history of “fado de Belém”, a style of “fado” originating from Lisbon’s Alfama district.

Things to Do:

  • Enjoy a delicious “pastel de nata” pastry at a local cafe or “tasca”.

  • Visit a “fado” museum: Learn about the history and evolution of this traditional music genre in a dedicated setting.

  • Experience a live “fado” performance:

Enjoy the melancholy sounds of fado, Portugal’s soulful music tradition, in one of Lisbon’s many charming “fado” houses".

  • Embrace the vibrant “fado” culture: Immerse yourself in the traditional Portuguese music scene by attending a concert.
  • Enjoy the food and drink:

“Fado” music is often accompanied by delicious traditional Portuguese dishes and drinks, such as a live performance of a “fado” musician.

Travel Tips:

  • Book your “fado” experience in advance: Live “fado” performances are popular and it’s best to book ahead to ensure you get a seat.
  • Learn about the history of “fado”: Many museums offer exhibits on the history of Portuguese music, including the traditional genre of “Fado”.