Two happy tourists are consulting a map while visiting lisbon, portugal, enjoying their summer vacation and exploring the city's beautiful streets and landmarks
CITY GUIDE December 12, 2024
6 min read

48 Hours in Lisbon

A Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Experience the best of Portugal's capital with our insider guide to Lisbon's must-see attractions, hidden gems, and culinary delights in just one perfect weekend.

1 Day One: Historic Lisbon

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Start your Lisbon adventure in the historic Alfama district, the city's oldest neighborhood that survived the 1755 earthquake.

  • Miradouro da Senhora do Monte - Best sunrise views over the city (free)
  • Fado Museum - Learn about Portugal's soulful music (€5)
  • Coffee at Café Nicola - Historic café in Rossio Square

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 6:00 PM)

Explore the magnificent Belém district, home to Portugal's most iconic monuments.

  • Jerónimos Monastery - UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece (€10)
  • Belém Tower - Iconic fortress and symbol of Lisbon (€6)
  • Pastéis de Belém - Original custard tarts since 1837 (€2 each)
  • National Coach Museum - World's largest collection of royal vehicles (€8)

Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM)

Experience Lisbon's vibrant nightlife and culinary scene in Bairro Alto.

  • Dinner at Taberna Real do Fado - Traditional Portuguese cuisine with live fado (€40-60)
  • Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara - Sunset views with a drink
  • Evening stroll through Bairro Alto - Historic nightlife district

2 Day Two: Modern Lisbon & Hidden Gems

Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

Discover contemporary Lisbon and its innovative food scene.

  • LX Factory - Creative hub in former industrial complex (free entry)
  • 25 de Abril Bridge viewpoint - Instagram-perfect shots
  • Time Out Market - Gourmet food court with 40+ vendors (€8-15 per dish)

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM)

Explore trendy neighborhoods and take the famous Tram 28 route.

  • Tram 28 full route - Historic tram through 7 neighborhoods (€3)
  • Chiado shopping district - Elegant boutiques and cafés
  • Carmo Ruins - Gothic church destroyed in 1755 earthquake (€5)
  • Santa Justa Elevator - Neo-Gothic lift with panoramic views (€5)

MAJI Travel Insider Tips

  • • Buy a 48-hour Lisbon Card for free public transport and museum discounts (€22)
  • • Download the Moovit app for real-time tram and metro schedules
  • • Book fado dinner shows in advance - they fill up quickly
  • • Wear comfortable shoes - Lisbon has steep cobblestone streets
  • • Try bifana (pork sandwich) and ginjinha (cherry liqueur) for authentic local flavors

Weekend Budget Breakdown

Per Person Costs:

Attractions & Museums: €45-60
Transportation: €22
Food & Drinks: €80-120
Accommodation (per night): €70-150
Total Weekend: €217-352

Money-Saving Tips:

  • • Visit free viewpoints instead of paid elevators
  • • Eat lunch at local tascas (taverns) for €8-12
  • • Buy groceries for breakfast at Pingo Doce
  • • Happy hour at bars 5-7 PM for half-price drinks

Ready to Explore Lisbon?

Let MAJI Travel create a personalized Lisbon itinerary with restaurant reservations, skip-the-line tickets, and local guide recommendations.

Plan My Lisbon Weekend