You'll likely arrive in Lisbon early in the morning so leave your luggage at the hotel and go grab a nice cup of coffee from one of the countless coffee shops, many of which are owned by expats.

Explore Old Lisbon

Visit the Castelo de São Jorge, an imposing fortress perched high on a hill in the heart of the city, and enjoy the panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

As you descend from the castle, immerse yourself in the Alfama district, one of Lisbon's oldest neighborhoods.

See Lisbon Cathedral, the city's oldest church and visit the Fado Museum or the National Tile Museum.

You’ll eventually make your way into Baixa and Chiado, a neighborhood with a bohemian flair.

Stop by the Time Out Market, or Mercado da Ribeira, for a quick bite to eat. If you're a digital nomad, check out the co-working space above the market.

Ride the picturesque Ascensor da Bica funicular and the Santa Justa Lift and see the Praça do Comércio, the grandest square in Lisbon.

Fado and Nightlife

In the evening, head back to Alfama, for a Fado show. I recommend Tasca do Chico.

Or head over to Principe Real for a more contemporary night out. I recommend dinner at The Decadente.

Take a day trip to Sintra and the Pena Palace

Head to Sintra early and go straight to The Palácio Nacional da Pena. This eclectic castle perched on a hill is an absolute must-visit and you want to avoid the long lines.Take some time to explore Sintra and treat yourself to lunch. I recommend Incomun. Try the queijada and travesseiro, Sintra’s famous deserts.

Stop in Cascais

If you’re not staying in Cascais, make a stop on the way back to Lisbon.

Walk around this coastal town for a bit and grab a scoop of ice cream at Gelados Santini.

Visit the LX Factory

End your day at LX Factory, a former industrial complex that has been transformed with art galleries, trendy shops, live music venues and several dining options.

Visit Belém and Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Start your day with one of Lisbon's most famous custard-filled pastries at Pastéis de Belém, in the Belem district. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery and take a guided tour of the building to explore the stunning cloisters.

Explore Passeio do Carmo

Take a scenic bike ride or walk along Passeio do Carmo, a boardwalk along the Tagus River.
Admire some of Lisbon's most notable landmarks including the Torre de Belém, Padrão dos Descobrimentos and the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT).

Parque das Naçōes

After you check out of your hotel, drive through Parque da Naçōes, an entirely redeveloped area, to experience the modern side of Lisbon.Admire the architecture of the Camões Theatre, Pavilhão do Conhecimento, Oceanário de Lisboa and Estação do Oriente, a striking transportation hub designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. If you have some time to spare, sit at one of the many trendy waterfront restaurants with panoramic views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge.