A Snack-Sized Adventure: 48 Hours in Lisbon

Hop on a tram

THE HILLS, lol! Okay, jokes aside: Lisbon’s tram system is not only convenient but genuinely fun. The hills here are no joke, so if you’re short on time or your knees aren’t thrilled about steep climbs, the tram is a lifesaver. It’s quaint, it’s charming, and most importantly—it gets you where you need to go without the sweat.

Visit the Belém Tower

One of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, the Belém Tower was built in the 1500s to guard the city. For sailors, it was the last sight as they departed and the first welcome when they returned home. Today, you can explore it for a small entrance fee and get a feel for its historic significance.

Santa Justa Lift

This elevator connects the lower streets of Baixa to the higher streets of Largo do Carmo, and its ironwork was inspired by the Eiffel Tower. It’s a popular tourist attraction and a fantastic way to see the city from above.

Lines can get long, so if you don’t want to wait, you can walk up instead—but the ride is fun, and the views are absolutely worth it.

Visit a conservas shop

We stopped at Conserveira de Lisboa, a family-owned conservas shop that has been operating since 1930. Tinned fish, especially sardines, are a staple in Portugal. Thanks to the country’s abundant coastline, conservas evolved into a gourmet pantry essential, made with fresh fish and flavorful marinades. The shop is tiny and nostalgic, with old signs and vintage cash registers—and it was so popular there was a line out the door.

When we asked how to eat the tinned fish, the staff said, “Honestly, it’s great straight from the can,” and they weren’t wrong. We usually paired ours with bread for an easy, cheap, delicious lunch. If you have room in your suitcase, conservas make fantastic gifts.

Cruise the Tagus River

We didn’t have time for this, but one of my best friends booked a sunset sailboat cruise and absolutely loved it. It was relaxing, beautiful, and a unique way to see the city from the water. There are tons of options, and it’s a great alternative way to sightsee.

Visit the LX Factory

An industrial-chic hotspot filled with street art, cafés, rooftop bars, and the famous Ler Devagar bookstore. You could spend hours exploring street art all over Lisbon, but LX Factory gives you a concentrated dose of creativity in one place.

Day trip to Sintra

One of our favorite day trips! We took a quick ride share to Sintra and visited the Castle of the Moors, which was breathtaking. Perched high in the hills, it felt like we were floating above the clouds. Once inside, you can walk along the castle walls with sweeping views of Sintra and even the Atlantic Ocean.

There are plenty of ways to reach the castle—taxis, buses, etc.—but we chose to hike through the forest via winding trails, and it was just as magical as the castle itself. If you have the time (it’s about three miles round trip), the hike is absolutely worth it.

Pena Palace

A vibrant, 19th-century palace famous for its bold yellows, reds, and whimsical architecture. We didn’t get tickets far enough in advance to explore the interior—and we’d heard it can get extremely crowded—so many people recommend simply visiting the exterior (free) for the iconic views. Either way, it’s a must-see if you’re in Sintra for the day.

Quinta da Regaleira

A mystical estate filled with gardens, grottoes, tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight for many visitors. We didn’t make it this time because our hike and castle visit ran long, but it’s definitely worth adding to your Sintra plan.

Day trip to Cascais

Another fantastic day trip. We went to Sintra first and then headed to Cascais for dinner and sunset—busy, but incredibly enjoyable!

Cascais is known for its beaches and its relaxed-yet-upscale seaside vibe. We went straight to Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliff formation where waves crash into a rocky chasm—a perfect, romantic sunset spot before a seaside dinner.

• Restaurant Ponto Final: We loved this spot! After a quick ferry ride across the river, we walked along a waterfront path to reach the restaurant, which is perched right at the water’s edge. They serve incredibly fresh, delicious seafood with stunning river views. We visited in the fall, but in the summer this place is lively to say the least.

• Time Out Market: This food hall is unlike any other—offering everything from fine dining to casual bites. If you can’t decide what to eat or want to sample several Portuguese specialties in an easy, low-key setting, this is the perfect place. We came for lunch on our first day, jet-lagged and indecisive, and it was ideal. We grabbed a Porto Tónico, a few shareable dishes, and finished with a coffee for the road.

• Mar do Inferno: Technically in Cascais, but absolutely worth mentioning. This seafood-focused restaurant overlooks the ocean and sits on rocky cliffs near Boca do Inferno. The portions were huge, satisfying, and wonderfully fresh. We ordered the seafood platter for two, which included mussels, a filet each of sea bream and sea bass, prawns, and buttery potatoes—simple, delicious, and perfect.

• Fábrica da Nata: We stopped here twice since it was right next to our hotel and loved it both times. It’s a quick, convenient spot for pastries, sandwiches, and coffee, and the pastel de nata never disappoints. With multiple locations, it’s an easy go-to.

• Manteigaria: Another classic pastel de nata stop—and a must if you’re serious about finding the best pastry. Naturally, we tried this spot and Fábrica da Nata (and a few others), and Manteigaria lives up to the hype. Always reliable, not too sweet, not too thick—just the perfect pastel de nata every time.