10-Day Budget Itinerary for Exploring Lisbon on a Shoestring

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fabrica Coffee Roasters

Start your trip with some locally roasted coffee and a delicious pastry to energize you for the day ahead.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Alfama District

Wander through the colorful streets of Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon, enjoying its unique architecture and street art.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Time Out Market

Enjoy a variety of local dishes at this famous food market with stalls from various chefs.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Mercado da Ribeira

Check out the local goods at this vibrant market and relax by the riverside.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Ride Tram 28

Take a scenic ride on Lisbon's iconic Tram 28 to see the city from a different perspective.
EUR3, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit São Jorge Castle

Explore the historic São Jorge Castle, offering incredible views over Lisbon.
EUR10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at O Prego da Peixaria

Taste delicious seafood pregos at this budget-friendly eatery.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém

Try the iconic Pastel de Nata at its birthplace, renowned all over Portugal.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jerónimos Monastery

Explore this architectural marvel of Manueline style, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at A Cevicheria

Enjoy delicious ceviche in this trendy spot at reasonable prices.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Tower of Belém

Discover the historical significance of this lookout tower, another UNESCO site.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore MAAT Museum

Check out the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, known for its modern architecture.
EUR9, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Jardim da Praça do Comércio

Take a stroll and relax in this beautiful space near the waterfront.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa da India

Savor some authentic Portuguese dishes at this local favorite with budget-friendly prices.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra, Portugal

7:30AM

Breakfast at local cafe

Grab a quick breakfast at a local café before heading out to Sintra.
EUR3, 1 hour

8:30AM

Take train to Sintra

Travel by train to one of the most picturesque towns in Portugal.
EUR5 round-trip, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Peña Palace

Explore the fairytale-like Pena Palace, filled with vibrant colors.
EUR14, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Gardens of the Palace

Wander through the lovely gardens surrounding the palace.
Included, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tascantiga

Taste traditional tapas in a quaint setting before exploring more of Sintra.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Quinta da Regaleira

Discover the enchanting gardens and mystic wells of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
EUR10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the historic center of Sintra

Wander around the charming streets, shops, and cafés of Sintra.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to Lisbon

Catch the train back to Lisbon after a day of exploration.
Included, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at A Cevicheria

Enjoy some relaxed dining at this spot specializing in ceviche.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Relax at Cascais

Cascais, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mercado da Ribeira

Enjoy a local breakfast before setting off to Cascais.
EUR5 round-trip, 1 hour

9:00AM

Beach time at Praia da Rainha

Soak up the sun at this beautiful beach, enjoying the ocean views.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk along the shoreline

Take a delightful stroll along the coastline, enjoying the scenery.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Os Pescadores

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with a local feel right by the beach.
EUR14, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Cascais Town Centre

Discover charming shops and cafes in this coastal town.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Parque Marechal Carmona

Relax in this lovely park, a great spot to unwind and recharge.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cantinho do Avillez

Indulge in a budget-friendly meal at this well-rated restaurant in Cascais.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Lisbon

Catch the train back to Lisbon and relax for the night.
Included, 1 hour

Day 5: Art and Culture Day

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café A Brasileira

Enjoy the ambiance at one of Lisbon's oldest cafés while having a bica (espresso).
EUR4, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Explore extensive art collections in a beautiful setting.
EUR10, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Eduardo VII Park

Enjoy the greenery and views of the city from this central park.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado do Ribeira

Indulge in a variety of fresh meals at this bustling food market.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Berardo Collection Museum

Check out contemporary art exhibits at this impressive museum.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll along the Tagus River

Take a relaxing walk along the waterfront, breathing in the fresh air.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the MAAT Museum

Check out the stunning architecture and exhibitions.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at A Cevicheria

Taste delectable ceviche dishes, capped off with fabulous dining experience.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Shopping and Relaxation

Lisbon, Portugal

8:30AM

Breakfast at Nicolau Lisboa

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast at this trendy café.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Chiado District for Shopping

Discover local shops and unique boutiques filled with crafts and souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Rossio Square

Relax at this vibrant square, a great place for people-watching.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Casa do Alentejo

Savor traditional Portuguese cuisine in a historic setting.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the National Tile Museum

Admire the art and history of traditional Portuguese azulejos (tiles).
EUR5, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through Alfama and enjoy Fado music

Walk the streets of Alfama and enjoy the local Fado performances you encounter.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at the Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Take in the stunning sunset views over the Tagus River.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Mercado da Ribeira

End your week with a fantastic meal choice at this lively food market.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Coastal Beauty in Estoril

Estoril, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at local café

Start your day with a coffee and pastry at a café near your lodging.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take the train to Estoril

Embark on another short train ride to the coastal town of Estoril.
EUR5 round-trip, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax at Estoril Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun on the sands of this beautiful beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Monte Mar

Enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the beach.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Estoril Casino

Visit the famous Estoril Casino and admire its history and surroundings.
Free to explore grounds, 1 hour

3:30PM

Walk to Tamariz Beach

Enjoy a scenic coastal walk from Estoril to Tamariz Beach.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Jardim do Estoril

Relax at this beautiful cafe garden overlooking the coast.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at the local seafood restaurant

Wrap up your day with delicious local seafood delicacies.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Lisbon

Catch the train back to Lisbon after a lovely day at the coast.
Included, 1 hour

Day 8: Historical Treasures

Lisbon, Portugal

8:30AM

Breakfast at Fábrica Coffee Roasters

Fuel yourself with some strong coffee and a tasty pastry.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art

Discover a wide array of art pieces from different eras at this great museum.
EUR5, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado da Ribeira

Enjoy a mix of flavors from different stalls at this lively market.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the National Palace of Ajuda

Explore the official residence of the Portuguese royal family, showcasing beautiful rooms.
EUR5, 2 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through the Botanical Garden

Relax and unwind amidst beautiful plants in this lovely garden.
EUR3, 1 hour

4:30PM

Enjoy views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Marvel at panoramic views of Lisbon from this famous viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Trobadores

Enjoy Portuguese dishes in a cozy setting, perfect for budget travelers.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

Day 9: Gastronomic Adventure

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Leitaria Artisanal

Savor a traditional Portuguese breakfast at this quaint spot.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Join a Free Walking Tour

Discover Lisbon's hidden gems and rich history with a local guide.
Free (tip suggested), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cervejaria Ramiro

Indulge in some of the best seafood Lisbon has to offer at this beloved eatery.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore the modern art collections from both Portuguese and international artists.
EUR5, 2 hours

3:30PM

Browse local shops in Chiado

Enjoy shopping for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Experience one of the highest viewpoints in Lisbon for an excellent sunset view.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cervejaria O Dois

Enjoy budget-friendly Portuguese fare at this traditional restaurant.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Farewell Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Nicola

Wrap up your culinary experiences with breakfast at a historical café.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Lisbon Cathedral

Explore the stunning cathedral, an important landmark in Lisbon.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Bairro Alto

Wander through this vibrant neighborhood with shops and street art.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at O Prego

Enjoy a classic Portuguese prego sandwich before you leave.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Last-minute Shopping in Chiado

Pick up any last souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Spend your last few hours enjoying views of the sunset over the river.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Ramiro

Savor a final dinner with some of the finest seafood before you depart.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your flight home or your next destination.
EUR2.50, 1 hour