Exploring Lisbon: A 5-Day City Experience

  • Day 1: Belem Tower
    25 minutes (7.4 km) from Lisbon city center

    Belem Tower, aka the Tower of St. Vincent, is a historic fortress that dates back to the 16th century. Located by the Tagus River, it was built to protect the city from invaders and is nowadays an iconic tourist attraction, offering scenic views of the river.

  • Day 2: Alfama District
    20 minutes (4.8 km) from Belem Tower

    Get lost in the winding streets of Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon. This charming neighborhood is full of colorful buildings and Fado music venues, making it a great spot to soak up the local culture.

  • Day 3: Lisbon Oceanarium
    30 minutes (10.2 km) from Alfama

    The Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and a must-see for ocean lovers. With thousands of marine species on display, visitors can observe creatures from all corners of the globe, including penguins, sea otters, and sharks.

  • Day 4: Jerónimos Monastery
    10 minutes (2.6 km) from Lisbon Oceanarium

    The Jerónimos Monastery was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its intricate architecture and ornate details make it one of the most beautiful buildings in Lisbon. The surrounding gardens provide the perfect spot to relax and soak up the historic atmosphere.

  • Day 5: LX Factory
    20 minutes (6.3 km) from Jerónimos Monastery

    LX Factory is a creative hub located in an abandoned industrial complex. With cool street art, quirky shops, and trendy restaurants, this hipster hotspot is a great place to spend an afternoon.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Belem Tower (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Alfama District (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Lisbon Oceanarium (2-3 hours, €19-€21)
  • Jerónimos Monastery (1-2 hours, €12)
  • LX Factory (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €31-€33

Transportation

While Lisbon has a good public transportation network, it can get crowded during peak hours. The most convenient way to get around is by taxi or rideshare, although it can be more expensive. A single ticket for the metro costs €1.50-€2.00.

Useful Tips

If you want to immerse yourself deeper in the local culture, take part in a Fado music experience or visit one of the traditional food markets, such as the Time Out Market. For those with more time, plan a day trip to Cascais or Sintra for some breathtaking scenery.

Airports

Lisbon is served by Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), located approximately 6 km from the city center. There are plenty of transportation options available, including the metro, airport shuttle, taxi, and rideshare services.

0