5-Day Lisbon Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip

Lisbon packs an incredible amount into a compact destination — sun-drenched hills, azulejo tiles, and haunting fado music. Five days gives you enough time to hit the highlights, discover a few secret spots, and still leave room for spontaneous detours.

Here is a tried-and-tested 5-day itinerary that balances must-sees with off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive and settle into your accommodation in Alfama — oldest neighborhood with fado houses and viewpoints. Take it easy — grab a coffee, orient yourself, and shake off the jet lag.

Late Afternoon: Head to Belém Tower for your first taste of what makes Lisbon special. The late-afternoon light is ideal for photos and the crowds start to thin.

Evening: Dinner in the Alfama — oldest neighborhood with fado houses and viewpoints area. Try Pastéis de Nata — flaky custard tarts best at Pastéis de Belém — it is the quintessential local dish and the perfect way to kick off your trip.

Day 2: The Iconic Highlights

Morning: Start early at São Jorge Castle. Arriving before 9 AM means fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.

Afternoon: After lunch, make your way to Tram 28 route. Budget about 2–3 hours here to fully appreciate the experience.

Evening: Explore the Bairro Alto — bohemian quarter with bars and restaurants neighborhood on foot. Street food stalls serve excellent Bifana — pork steak sandwich marinated in garlic and white wine at a fraction of restaurant prices.

Day 3: Deep Dive into Culture

Morning: Visit Jerónimos Monastery — one of Lisbon's most culturally significant sites. Hire a local guide for about $12 to get the stories behind the sights.

Afternoon: Wander through the LX Factory — converted industrial complex with shops and food stalls district. This is where locals shop, eat, and socialize, so the vibe is refreshingly authentic.

Evening: Treat yourself to a mid-range dinner featuring Caldo Verde — kale and potato soup with chorizo. Expect to spend around $28 per person.

Day 4: Off the Beaten Path

Morning: Today is about discovery. Head to Mouraria — multicultural neighborhood where fado was actually born — a spot most tourists overlook entirely.

Afternoon: Check out Parque das Nações — modern waterfront with aquarium and cable car. The Belém — monumental waterfront with UNESCO sites and pastéis area is great for a leisurely walk and a late lunch.

Evening: Experience Lisbon's nightlife scene — Bairro Alto — dozens of tiny bars in narrow alley streets.

Day 5: Final Gems & Departure

Morning: Use your last morning to visit Miradouro da Graça — local-favorite viewpoint less crowded than Santa Luzia or revisit a favorite spot from earlier in the trip.

Late Morning: Pick up souvenirs at LX Factory — independent designer shops and artisan food — support local artisans and avoid airport markup.

Afternoon: Head to the airport with memories (and a full camera roll) to last a lifetime.

Pro Tips

• Transport: Viva Viagem card works on metro, trams, buses, and ferries
• Budget: A comfortable mid-range daily budget is about $110 per day including meals, transport, and activities.
• Packing: Bring shoes with good grip for steep cobblestone calçada sidewalks You will average 12,000–15,000 steps per day on this itinerary.
• Etiquette: Greet people with Bom dia (morning) or Boa tarde (afternoon)
• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Tram 28 and in crowded viewpoints

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Daily Total	$40	$110	$350
5-Day Total	$200	$550	$1750

Final Thoughts

Five days in Lisbon is enough to fall in love with the place — and to start planning your return trip. This itinerary is a starting point; feel free to swap days around based on weather, energy levels, and serendipitous discoveries.

---

Planning a trip to Lisbon? Let TripGenie create your perfect itinerary — it's free and takes just 60 seconds.