Start with a fresh pastel de nata and coffee at Manteigaria in Chiado, a local favorite known for morning pastries; typically open from ~7:30–20:00. Good energizer before walking the centre.
Stroll the riverside Praça do Comércio and walk up Rua Augusta to feel Lisbon's spacious downtown and take photos of the Arco da Rua Augusta and the Tagus views; open public space, free to visit.
Ride the historic Santa Justa Elevator for a unique 19th-century lift experience and elevated views of Baixa and Carmo; typically open ~7:30–21:00, but verify seasonal hours.
Take a classic ride on Tram 28 to wind through Graça and Alfama's narrow streets for a quick orientation of the old quarters; trams run frequently but can be crowded—validate current schedules.
Explore the castle and viewpoints over Lisbon; the site tells the city's medieval and Moorish history and offers panoramic photo spots. Typical opening 9:00–19:00 (seasonal), allow 1–1.5 hours.
Sample multiple Portuguese dishes under one roof at Time Out Market—great for groups or picky eaters; market hours commonly 10:00–00:00, so it's a flexible midday option.
Walk Alfama's alleys and visit the Fado Museum to understand Portugal’s musical heritage; Museu do Fado is usually open ~10:00–18:00. The stroll itself is the highlight—allow time to get lost and enjoy viewpoints.
Visit the evocative ruined Gothic church of Carmo and its small archaeological museum; typically open 10:00–18:00—great for atmospheric late-afternoon exploration.
Enjoy a renowned seafood dinner (prawns, clams, crab) at Ramiro—expect outstanding quality and often a wait, so consider arriving early or reserving; usually open until late evening.
Take the tram or a short taxi to Belém and enjoy the original pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém; the shop typically opens ~08:00–18:00 and is busiest mid-morning so earlier is better.
Visit the ornate Manueline monastery, a UNESCO site with impressive cloisters and maritime history exhibits; generally open ~10:00–17:30—check seasonal opening times and ticketing.
Explore the iconic riverside fortress that guarded Lisbon’s harbor during the Age of Discoveries; typically open ~10:00–17:30—combine with nearby monuments for a full Belém morning.
Have a riverside lunch at the MAAT café (Darwin's Café) or another Belém riverside spot, with contemporary views and seafood/light plates; MAAT cafe typically opens ~11:00–19:00.
Visit the modern MAAT building for contemporary exhibitions and striking riverside architecture; usually open 11:00–19:00 (closed Mon), so confirm current hours before visiting.
Head to the creative LX Factory complex for independent shops, street art, and the famous Ler Devagar bookstore; most shops open ~10:00–20:00 and it’s a great spot for late-afternoon browsing.
Enjoy cocktails with views of the 25 de Abril Bridge and the city skyline—perfect for sunset; rooftop hours often start mid-afternoon and extend into the night.
Return to central Lisbon for inventive seafood and a modern take on a traditional fish market-restaurant; opens midday to late evening—reservations recommended for dinner.
Finish with a live Fado performance in Alfama to experience Portuguese traditional music; shows typically start around 20:30 and require reservations—confirm show times and cover charges.
Catch an early CP train from Rossio Station to Sintra (about 40–45 minutes) to maximize your day; trains run frequently—verify the current schedule for earliest departures.
Fuel up with travesseiros (Sintra pastries) at historic Piriquita in the town center—opens early and is famous for its pastries, perfect before palace visits.
Explore colorful Pena Palace and its hilltop terraces for romantic 19th-century Romanticism architecture and sweeping views; typically open 9:30–18:30—arrive early to avoid crowds.
Walk the stone ramparts of the Moorish Castle for dramatic views over Sintra and the coast; usually open 9:30–19:00, offering a contrasting medieval experience to Pena Palace.
Visit the mystical Quinta da Regaleira estate with its gardens, wells, and symbolic architecture; typically open 10:00–18:30—allow 1–2 hours to explore the Initiation Well and tunnels.
Take a late-afternoon/evening train back to Lisbon (40–45 min); trains run regularly but check timetable for the best return time to avoid rush-hour crowding.
Celebrate your last night with contemporary Portuguese cuisine from celebrity chef José Avillez in Chiado; the restaurant is well-regarded—book ahead for dinner seating.
End the trip with a relaxed walk along the Tagus riverfront or a quick look at the lively Pink Street nightlife area—open public spaces perfect for a final Lisbon atmosphere soak.