4 things to do in Lisbon in a day (or a few hours)
Bom Dia!
If you are visiting Lisbon for the first time, you are in for a real treat as the city is beautiful, filled with culture, and has a contagious, vibrant energy.
1. Arrive at the Arco De Rua Augusta
This historic arch will be one of the first things you see if you take the metro from the airport to the city center. If you see the arch, Congrats, you’ve officially arrived in Lisbon! The arch was built to celebrate the restoration of the city after the earthquake in 1755. The detail, height, and scale of this structure are impressive, to say the least. It is so massive, it’s hard to capture it all in one picture. The Arch De Rue of Augusta is surrounded by the Praca De Comercio, which seems to merge the city and the sea. Arco De Rua Augusta is a good meeting place if you plan to meet up with friends or family in Lisbon.
2. Eat at the TimeOut market
If you enjoy eating and drinking your way through the city as much as I do, then the TimeOut market is a must! This market is only about a 15-minute walk from Arco De Rua Augusta and is filled with a variety of food, desserts, cocktails, and flowers. There’s even a flower shop inside where you can pick up a bird of paradise bouquet or some fresh lavender. If your family is anything like mine, everyone wants something different, so this spot is ideal for lunch as it has something for everyone. There are also shared tables so everyone can enjoy their choice of food and eat together. If you just arrived in Lisbon hungry, make this your first stop!
https://www.timeoutmarket.com/lisboa/en/eat-and-drink/
3. Take a stroll through the city
Shops, restaurants, and street performers line the streets of the city’s center. Taking a stroll through the city is the best way to experience Portuguese culture, take in the historic detail of every street, and find the perfect Pastel de Nata. I found the city to be friendly and safe, but it is still important to always take safety precautions when exploring a new city. For an afternoon pick-me-up, try a Meia De leite, which is like a latte but Portuguese style
4. Hike to Castelo de S. Jorge
For a breathtaking view of Lisbon, walk or drive to the Castelo de S. Jorge. This castle is a short walk from Arco De Rua Augusta but a challenging one as the walk is mainly uphill. This military monument has a compelling history and is located on a hill overlooking several stunning red-roof homes. There are also many shops and places to eat nearby making it a great spot to find that perfect Lisbon souvenir.
A daily sample itinerary
9:30 AM | Arrive at the Arco De Rua Augusta |
12:00 PM | Eat at the time-out market! |
1:30 PM | Take a stroll in Lisbon |
4:00 PM | Hike to the Castelo de S. Jorge |
(Please be sure to check other sources for hours, availability, closures, and contact information before making travel plans.)