The Perfect Lisbon Weekend
When planning a European weekend away, the cities that come up first in most people’s minds are Paris, London, Rome, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. In my opinion, Lisbon definitely belongs on this list as it’s full of culture and history. Located at the corner of the Atlantic Ocean and Tejo River, it has everything one wants out of a European getaway: amazing monuments, delicious cuisine and wines, and will entertain people of all ages from children to seniors
Most of the highlights you’ll be able to see in a weekend if planned well. On the first day start in Baixa with a visit to the Santa Justa Lift; this will provide you with a beautiful view of Lisbon by taking the elevator built in 1902 up to the top of the city. Continue to walk through Rua da Prata towards Praca do Comercio. This beautiful square is located at the Tejo River and has stunning views all around.
Afterward, take an Uber to Castelo de Sao Jorge. This 11th-century castle is great to wander around and be amazed by endless Lisbon views and picture-perfect spots. Walk to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a famous viewpoint that is beautifully decorated with Azulejo tiles. This is a great moment to have lunch in one of the restaurants around the square for a typical Portuguese meal with a nice glass of wine.
After lunch, take an Uber/taxi to the Belem area. Here you will have several monuments to visit and a great place to walk around. Start at the Torre de Belem, one of the key monuments of Lisbon, located in the river and great for taking pictures. Continue to Jeronimos Monastery, which I highly advise visiting inside as well, as the architecture of this monastery is simply breathtaking.
One of the last things that can’t be missed in Belem is the most famous type of pastries, called Pastel de Nata. Be warned, as once you have tasted one, you most likely will want several more!
On your second day, it’s time to explore the magical town of Sintra, located within easy reach by car or train from Lisbon. Sintra is known for its magnificent castles, palaces, nature, and pastries. There are many different places to visit, but the most recommended would be for sure Pena Palace, which is a colorful palace at the highest point in Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira, with its enchanted gardens and the less touristy Palacio de Monserrate. Besides visiting these monuments, don’t skip walking through the Sintra town center, and stop at the famous pastry shop, Piriquita for Travesseiros de Sintra, which might be one of the best pastries in all of Portugal.
Of course, there is much more to see and do in Lisbon, but for a weekend away this will be two days filled with the cities best highlights. I’m sure you will have the best time!.