72 Hours in Lisbon: Top Activities to Do!
72 Hours, let's go!
Colorful, vibrant, and home to breath taking architecture, beautiful views, and delicious food, Lisbon, Portugal is a charming destination. From exploring historic landmarks to relaxing and enjoying in one of the squares, Lisbon offers so much to do. Do you have an upcoming short or weekend trip to Lisbon, or just interested in what there is to do in the city?
This is for you! Read below for a comprehensive list of top attractions and best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, including breathtaking castles to visit, best spots to enjoy stellar views, and historic sites you shouldn’t miss.
Lisbon Top Attractions & Things to do
The Castles.
Castles
Pena Palace
Located around 40 minutes outside of Lisbon, in an area called Sintra is Pena Palace. Beautiful and breathtaking, Pena Palace is a MUST VISIT attraction and will most certainly sweep you off your feet (it certainly did for me). Situated in the Sintra mountains, Pena Palace was a summer residence built for Queen Maria II by Ferdinand II. Completed in 1854, Pena Palace became a National Monument in 1910 and Sintra was designated a UNESCO heritage site in 1995.
So how do you visit the palace? Getting to the palace from Lisbon is simple and direct. One can drive or there is a train that runs from Rossio station (in Lisbon) to Sintra station. From Sintra station you can take bus number 434, which brings you directly to the gates of the Palace. Once you arrive and begin to walk up the hill towards the castle you’ll be greeted by the beautiful and colorful structure that is Pena Palace. Be aware that the terrain is hilly and there are stairs. As you plan your visit, check out Pena Palace website and if you need to plan for accessibility, check out their accessibility page.
Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal
While visiting, check out the inside of the palace, which has been turned into a museum, with various rooms to visit. Roam the gardens and take in the architecture and stellar views or feel free to stop by their cafe. While there I was in awe and disbelief at this beautiful structure. If you’re interested in beautiful and intriguing architecture, great views, and history, Sintra is definitely worth exploring.
Castelo de Sao Jorge
Located in Lisbon proper, this castle was built in the mid 11th century during the Moorish period. Situated on a very steep hill, this castle was built to house military troops and not meant as a residence, unlike like other palaces, such as Sintra. Castelo de Sao Jorge is outside and provides amazing views of the city. While there, take time to walk around and enjoy the views. If you’re up for it and have time, check out the restaurants in the surrounding area. Due to the steep hills, uneven surfaces, stone walkways, and much more, keep in mind that this site might present challenges and could not be accessible for individuals with limited mobility.
The Top Sights.
Top Sights
Praça do Comércio
This is a beautiful square that serves as a commercial hub in the city. The plaza is harbor facing and provides amazing views of the water. Although home to some government offices, the area mostly houses museums, shops, and also serves as a departure point for trams and water ferries. It’s lively and full of visitors and definitely worth a visit.
Views of the water from Praça do Comércio, Lisbon, Portugal
Praça do Comércio, Lisbon, Portugal
Cristo-Rei
Overlooking Lisbon from across the bridge in Almada, is the Christ the King Statue. It's tall, it's powerful, and inspiring. The status was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil. On the grounds is also a statue of the Virgin Mary. Even if you’re not religious, visiting the Cristo-Rei statue is an experience unlike any other. For me personally, it was moving and made me imagine how overwhelming the structure in Brazil must be.
Jerónimos Monastery
Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983 (along with the tower of Belem), this monastery is one of the most visited attractions in Lisbon. Built in manueline style the monastery is located in Belem and a very short distance to the Belem Tower and the Monument to discoveries. While there also visit the monastery grounds, which is beautiful.
Belém Tower
Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983 (along with the Jerónimos Monastery), this tower was built in 1515 as a fortress to guard Lisbon’s harbor. Located by the water, it is close proximity to Padrão dos Descobrimentos and Jerónimos Monastery. While in the area, walk around, enjoy the views, or grab an ice cream and sit on the stairs or in the grass close by.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Located in between the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, this monument is dedicated to the Portuguese age of exploration and its leading figures. There is also an intriguing world map on the grounds, which goes over Portuguese exploration. For those that are familiar with Portuguese history and brutal colonization styles (if you’re not, take some time to research), visiting this monument was thought provoking and emotional.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Rossio Square
Rossio is one of the main square's in town. The square center consists of a water fountain, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings, such as the National Theatre and countless restaurants and stores. It’s a lovely location to relax, grab a bite to eat, or wonder around.
Where to go for Stellar Views.
Stellar Views
MIRADOURO DAS PORTAS DO SOL
Located in the Alfama district, this location provides a scenic view of the city. You can also find people playing music, dancing, and eating at surrounding restaurants.
MIRADOURO DE SANTA LUZIA
This look out point is also located in the Alfama district, but unlike the view from MIRADOURO DAS PORTAS DO SOL, from here you'll be overlooking the water.
View from Miradouro De Santa Luzia, Lisbon, Portugal
Last but not least, if you're interested in futuristic architecture, check out Gare do Oriente, their infamous transportation hub.
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Solo Travel in Lisbon.
Exploring Lisbon as a Black Solo Female Traveler
Visiting and exploring Lisbon for a short trip and as a solo female black traveler was a great experience. I enjoyed the food, colors, architecture, and walkability and beauty of the city. The city attracts people from around the world, which provides the opportunity to meet a variety of international travelers. While there I also learnt about Portugal’s black population.
preparing for an upcoming solo trip?
Check out these tips and recommendations to help you prepare and embark on your next solo trip as a solo female black traveler.
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