In my opinion Lisbon is a fantastic place to chose for a short city break. In 4 days you will be able to see a lot, however please do remember, that Lisbon has a lot more to offer, and every visit you make, will be different to the one before. It is an excellent destination for a memorable trip for many reasons.
Lisbon has rich history and culture, from Moorish castles to Gothic cathedrals and Baroque palaces, the city is a living testament to its rich heritage. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River and built on seven hills, Lisbons’ breathtaking panoramic views from its numerous viewpoints. The city’s colourful tiled buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and lush parks add to its scenic allure.
Lisbon offers World-Class Attractions, warm climate, opportunities for day trips, vibrant night life, it is a paradise for food lovers, and something for every traveler.
Below I have listed some activities, that I think you will enjoy, and I also tried myself and I know they are worth spending your money. I have also included a few hotels. When you book through my link, I am going to earn commission.
When to go to Lisbon
Overall, the best time to visit Lisbon depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Whether you prefer the warmth of summer, the mild temperatures of spring and autumn, or the festive atmosphere of winter, Lisbon has something to offer year-round. Consider your interests and priorities when planning your visit to make the most of your time in this beautiful city. Also, the prices in hotels as well as flights, can vary depending on the time of the year. Personally, my favourite time to visit Lisbon is October, as in UK we already have cold weather during this period, while in Lisbon we can still enjoy beautiful sunny days.
Where to stay in Lisbon
Every single place in Lisbon is beautiful to me and has its own charm, however I do have my favourite location and hotels that I have stayed at and can definitely recommend them. Three of them are located near Marquis of Pombal Square and Hop-On-Hop-Off buses are easy accessible from there, as well as being near city centre, restaurants and bars. One of the hotels is more central, but still offers a quiet rooms, good breakfast and excellent location.
HF FENIX LISBOA – Click here to book on booking.com
My number 1 recommendation would be HF FÉNIX LISBOA -(click here to book hotel on booking.com),beautiful hotel with comfortable beds and great service. Breakfast offers a wide range of choices, everyone will find something that they enjoy, from fresh juices to sparkling drinks, tea and coffee. My birthday fell on one of the days of my stay in Fenix Lisboa. My husband mentioned this to one of the staff in the breakfast restaurant and they made me feel really special. The staff brought me a cake(they have also dimmed the lights while at it…) and everyone was singing happy birthday. It was a really cute gesture and I guess little things make your stay special.
HF Fenix Garden – click here to book on booking.com
Second choice would be the sister hotel, which is located a little further up from Fenix Lisboa, HF Fenix Garden , again very pleasant stay, clean rooms, comfy beds, very polite staff members. The AC in our room wasn’t working properly, and while we were out exploring they made sure everything is fixed before we came back. Breakfast choice also very nice, good coffee, good selection of hot and cold food.
Lisboa Pessoa Hotel – Click here to book on booking.com
If you prefer to be a bit closer to all the bars and busier area, Lisboa Pessoa Hotel – (click here to book on booking.com) would be a fantastic choice. It offers a beautiful interior, SPA and rooftop restaurant with panoramic views. It has a rating of 9.3 and fantastic reviews.
Ibis Styles Lisboa Centro Marques de Pombal
And finally, Ibis Styles Lisboa Centro Marquês de Pombal – (click here to book on booking.com), good, modern, budget option. Considering it is a budget hotel, the breakfast was really good. Big selection, from hot to cold food, fruit, yogurts etc, and most importantly – very tasty coffee.
I have visited all of them personally, and was pleased with my stay and service received.
Visit Belem Lisbon
Is Belem worth visiting? Absolutely! It is not only filled with some great attractions but also restaurants and cafes. Belem can be easily reached by Uber, it will cost you roughly 5euros, by Hop On Hop Of Bus, or public transport. Whichever way you chose, please do make time to visit Belem while in Lisbon.
Belem Tower
Belém Tower is a must-see when visiting Lisbon, a stunning fortress standing proudly along the Tagus River. Built in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site once guarded the city and now enchants visitors with its striking Manueline architecture. Climb its spiral staircase for panoramic views of the river and city, and explore the intricate stone carvings and hidden corners inside. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and close to other landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower offers a perfect mix of history, beauty, and adventure for travellers seeking Lisbon’s rich past.
Jerónimos Monastery Lisbon
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Lisbon. This architectural masterpiece showcases Portugal’s rich history and stunning Manueline style. Explore its magnificent cloisters, intricate stone carvings, and the tombs of famous figures like Vasco da Gama. Perfect for history lovers and culture enthusiasts, a visit here offers a deep dive into the Age of Discovery. Don’t miss the chance to experience this iconic landmark – book your online tour now through below link, making sure you avoid queues outside(trust me it is a long wait…) and step into one of Lisbon’s most captivating treasures!
Pasteis De Belem
Pastéis de Belém are a must-try treat in Lisbon, beloved for their crispy golden pastry and creamy, custard-filled center. Made using a secret recipe since 1837, these iconic tarts are freshly baked daily at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery. The combination of the flaky crust and the sweet, velvety custard dusted with cinnamon makes them simply irresistible. Enjoy them warm with a coffee for the perfect Lisbon experience. A visit to Lisbon isn’t complete without tasting these delicious, world-renowned pastries! You will be surprised to know, that prices are very affordable. It might look really busy(it is), but the queue management system is amazing and you will be sitting inside in no time. Make sure you are joining the right queue for sitting inside or for the take out service.
Wine & food tour
It is a fantastic activity, I was reluctant at the beginning, but when it ended I was glad that I decided to book it. Yes it is a walking tour, but there is a very small amount of walking you are actually going to do. The walking involves moving from one restaurant to another, and majority of time is spent sitting down in a restaurant enjoying beautiful local food and drink. You get to visit three places, and trust me, you are going to love it! One of the restaurants is a hidden gem, and you get to try traditional sausage, cheese and wine. Overall it is a great opportunity to find out more about the cuisine of Portugal as well as a bit about history of Lisbon. It is worth the price, you will end up eating, drinking loads and meeting some lovely people, so definitely no need for dinner plans after! I had a chance to try the food that I would never order myself, and ended up liking it a lot. The guide also gave us instructions on how to eat sardines and how to get rid of the bones, which was great. Places that we have visited are a true hidden gems, and even through my research I have never come across them, therefore it is worth a try! I have shared a link for the activity that I have done below.
Fado Show in Lisbon
I feel like trip to Lisbon is not complete without experiencing some Fado. You will probably have a chance to hear it in some restaurants and bars, but live show is so much better. All I can say, carve some time during your busy trip and allow yourself to enjoy the moment. This traditional music, filled with emotion and passion, takes you on a journey through the country’s history and culture. Set in intimate venues, often in historic neighborhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto, the haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics will captivate you. Paired with authentic Portuguese cuisine and wine, a Fado show offers a magical evening that immerses you in the true essence of Lisbon. Don’t miss this iconic cultural experience—book your Fado show now for an evening you’ll always remember! In fact, I am going to include it in our 4 day in Lisbon plan.
Botanical Gardens Lisbon
Escape into the serene beauty of Lisbon’s Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through exotic plant species, towering palms, and vibrant flowers from around the world. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat, the gardens offer quiet paths, shaded benches, and stunning views. Whether you’re exploring the tropical greenhouse or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, this hidden gem provides a refreshing break from the city’s hustle. Visit the Botanical Gardens for a breath of fresh air and a unique glimpse of Lisbon’s natural beauty!
List of my favourite botanical gardens in Lisbon, click on the name for Google Maps directions.
Sardine Shop in Lisbon
The famous colorful sardine shop in Lisbon is a vibrant, fun stop that’s perfect for unique gifts and Instagram-worthy photos. Filled with quirky, retro-style sardine cans, each with different years and designs, it’s a charming spot to pick up a memorable souvenir for family or friends. The playful decor and rainbow of tins make it a great place to snap some fun, colorful pictures. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or just want to soak in the whimsical atmosphere, this shop offers a delightful slice of Lisbon’s charm!
Hop on Hop off bus Lisbon
Hop on hop off bus in Lisbon is a great way to see a lot in a short period of time. There are a few lines, depending on which company you will chose. The one I like the most is the red line, and the green one. There is also a line that will take you to Cascais, but in my opinion you need a full day to appreciate the costal town. It will take roughly 2h to get there, and 2h to get back, so please do check the timetable making sue you can catch the last bus back to Lisbon. Red line takes you all the way round to Belem, green to the beautiful castle and Alfama neighbourhood with stunning view points. All in all is a good value for money in my opinion, as Lisbon is a very big city and it is impossible to discover it on foot only, especially when you want to see Belem.
What to do in Lisbon when it rains
Even though, most likely, when you visit you will experience a beautiful, sunny and rain free weather, it is a great idea to have a backup plan. Of course there is plenty of cafes and restaurants that can shelter you from the rain, but it would be nice to still see things, since you already made the effort of flying to Portugal. Lisbon has a wide range of museums and I am sure everyone can find something for themselves. A great idea to see the city when it rains, is hop on hop off bus. It will take you around Lisbon, and you have a choice of a couple different lines. I am going to talk about it a little bit more in next chapter of this post. You can of course bring a rain jacket, and umbrella to discover the city on foot!
A couple of activity ideas you might consider when it rains:
Lisbon Oceanarium
I visited when I was in Lisbon for a very first time. Located a bit further from the city centre, but amazing experience for children as well as adults. I would definitely go again. I have included a map below, you can just click it and your phone will automatically set it for you.
Museums in Lisbon
I would need to do a whole separate post about Museums in Lisbon, and to be able to visit them all you would probably need a whole trip devoted to this activity… Therefore I only picked 4(including the tiles museum, that you can find link for below).
National Museum of Ancient Art – Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
This museum houses one of the finest collections of European art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles dating from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Highlights include works by Portuguese masters such as Nuno Gonçalves and Hieronymus Bosch.
Berardo Collection Museum – Museu Coleção Berardo
Located in the Belém Cultural Center, this museum houses the impressive modern and contemporary art collection of Portuguese businessman José Berardo. Visitors can explore works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Andy Warhol.
National Tile Museum – Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles (azulejos), this museum is housed in a former convent and showcases the history, production techniques, and artistic evolution of tiles in Portugal. The museum’s collection includes decorative panels, azulejo panels, and tile fragments dating back centuries.
Museum of Lisbon – Museu de Lisboa
Comprising several locations across the city, the Museum of Lisbon offers insights into the history, culture, and identity of Lisbon and its inhabitants. Exhibits cover topics such as the city’s origins, maritime heritage, and daily life through artefacts, multimedia displays, and interactive exhibits.
Lisbon itinerary 4 days
Lisbon day 1 Belem and botanical garden
- Breakfast at a local cafe
- Catch hop on hop off bus from Marques de Pombal Square/catch an Uber to Belem, which will cost you roughly 7€, if you are traveling with a bigger group it is a good value for money.
- Hop off in Belem and head to The “Pastéis de Belém”
- Walk down to the Tropical Botanical Garden and have picnic
- Walk to Jerónimos Monastery
- Visit Vasco da Gama tomb in Jerónimos Monastery
- Cross over to see the Tower of Belem
- Hop on your bus, or catch the Uber back to the city centre and have some piri piri chicken at Frangasqueira Nacional
Start your day with a delicious cup of coffee and a toast in one of the cafes, trust me, there is plenty. Once you are full of energy and ready to go, catch hop on hop off bus from Marques de Pombal Square, and hop off in Belem. Head to the Pasteis de Belem. You will not miss it, as there is always a queue outside. The “Pastéis de Belém” bakery is a historic and iconic establishment located in the Belém neighbourhood of Lisbon. The bakery has a rich history, dating back to 1837 when the recipe for the custard tarts was supposedly acquired from the Jerónimos Monastery, located nearby. The precise recipe for the Pastéis de Belém custard filling remains a closely guarded secret, known only to a few individuals within the bakery. If you have time, stop at the caffe and have your Pastel de Nada inside. The building is beautiful and it’s an unforgettable experience. Service is fast, so you will not be waiting a long time. Our next stop will be the Tropical Botanical Garden, which will allow you to take a deep breath and admire some unique types of trees and plants. Next stop is Jerónimos Monastery – this is where Vasco da Gamma tomb can be found (in the Monastery’s church). Ticket cost is €12 and please book it online to avoid huge queues in the ticket office as you will be queueing to get inside anyway. It doesn’t take long to get in. The queue system is officiant and quick. The next step is Belem Tower. It’s a great idea to pack a picnic with you, as there plenty of green space to enjoy your afternoon.
Lisbon day 2 Sintra day trip
Day trip from Lisbon to Sintra
Sintra can be easily reached, distance from Lisbon to Sintra is approximately 45 minutes by train. I would recommend booking your ticket the night before at the train station, as in the morning it might get a bit busy. I have written an article about castles in Sintra, so please visit it as well, making sure you plan your trip well and utilise your time there. In the evening, once you are back, I would recommend having your dinner at Time out Market, where you will find a wide selection of small restaurants, so if traveling solo, couple or with a group, everyone will find something for themselves.
Lisbon day 3 Alfama and Bairro Alto
- Breakfast at @hyggekaffe
- Visit Park Eduardo IV and Marques de Pombal square
- Botanical garden Estufa Fria
- Brunch in Alfama
- Alfama view points Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol
- Lisbon castle
- go down the narrow streets towards the view points near Bairro Alto
- Stop for a coffee/drink with a view at Bairro Alto view point
- A Cultura do Hambúrguer
It’s time to explore the Lisbon city centre. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the amazing cafes. Check if it requires booking, as it can get busy. From there walk down to the Park Eduardo IV and explore the Marques De Pombal Square. From there head up to the Estufa Fria (click for Google Maps) botanical garden located at the top of the Park Eduardo. After morning walking, take a break for brunch in the Alfama neighbourhood, to then move on to the amazing view point. There are two places worth stopping at, Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol located 2 minutes walk from each other. Take a stroll to the castle and enjoy the views. After a full day of exploring you are ready to head down to Bairro Alto through narrow streets and hills and stop for a drink before your dinner. Place that is worth trying, and I can definitely recommend is A Cultura do Hambúrguer. They make amazing burgers and have a great cocktails/drinks menu.
Lisbon day 4 Time Out
During your last day you should take it easy. Start it with a delicious breakfast at @@nicolaulisboa and walk to the oldest Ginjinha bar. It’s a small bar that offers shots of Ginjinha, (“Ginjinha or simply Ginja, is a Portuguese liqueur made by infusing ginja berries (sour cherry, Prunus cerasus austera, the Morello cherry) in alcohol (aguardente) and adding sugar together with other ingredients, with cloves and/or cinnamon sticks being the most common.”). It is morning, but it’s ok. You are on your holiday after all… 🙂 Your next stop is Santa Justa lift where you can enjoy the views and Praça do Comércio, great place to stop for a quick drink, snack or wine tasting. Last place to visit is Time out Market – here you can have your lunch or dinner, rest before you fly back home.
4 days in Lisbon
You can pick any activity from this list and mix it however you like. This is just a general guide and stuff that I think is worth seeing/doing when you only have 4 days. There is so much more to do and see in Lisbon, you only gonna be able to touch the surface, but I hope, that after this time, you will want to go back again and again like me. Enjoy your trip.
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