3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Lisbon, Portugal

Day 1: Explore Historic Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fábrica Coffee Roasters

Start your day with a delicious, affordable breakfast of freshly brewed coffee and a croissant at this local favorite.
Located a 10-minute walk from Praça do Comércio.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Alfama District Walk

Wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, and soak in the historic ambiance.
Stroll from Fábrica Coffee Roasters into Alfama, it’s a short 15-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit São Jorge Castle

Explore the iconic castle that offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
Walk uphill for about 20 minutes from Alfama.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado da Ribeira

Enjoy an affordable lunch with various options at this vibrant food market.
Catch Tram 28 at the nearest stop for a direct route.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Belém Tower

Take a short trip to see this UNESCO World Heritage site and its beautiful surroundings.
Take Tram 15 from Cais do Sodré to Belém.
EUR6, 1 hour

4:30PM

Belem Pastry Tasting

Indulge in a traditional Pastel de Belém from the famous bakery.
Right next to Belém Tower.
EUR2.50, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Sunset at Praça do Comércio

Relax and enjoy the sunset by the riverside with stunning views.
Return on Tram 15 to Cais do Sodré, walk to Praça do Comércio.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Time Out Market

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner from the myriad of stalls offering local cuisine.
Walk back to Time Out Market from Praça do Comércio.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Tour

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pastéis de nata

Savor a traditional Portuguese custard tart at this popular spot.
15-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR2, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit the National Tile Museum

Discover the beautiful history of traditional Portuguese azulejos (tiles).
Take Bus 794 from your accommodation to the museum.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Stroll through Jardim da Estrela

Relax in one of Lisbon's most beautiful public gardens.
Walk for 20 minutes from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Praça de Campo de Ourique

Try delicious local dishes at this lively market area.
Take Bus 28 from Jardim da Estrela.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Museu Calouste Gulbenkian

Appreciate one of the world's great collections of art, ranging from ancient to modern.
Take the metro from Campo de Ourique to São Sebastião.
EUR10, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Bairro Alto

Wander this vibrant neighborhood known for its nightlife, shops, and art.
Take Tram 24 to Bairro Alto.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the city and tagus river.
Short 10-minute walk from Bairro Alto.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at O Prego da Peixaria

Try an affordable and delicious prego sandwich at this local eatery.
Walk from Miradouro to the restaurant, around 10 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour
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Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra, Portugal

7:30AM

Breakfast at local bakery

Grab a quick pastry and coffee at a local bakery before heading out.
Walk to the nearest bakery from accommodation.
EUR3, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Train to Sintra

Take a scenic train ride to Sintra, set amidst beautiful hills and historic architecture.
Catch the train from Rossio Station (15-minute metro ride).
EUR4 return, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pena Palace

Marvel at this colorful and romantic palace set against a backdrop of lush gardens.
Take Bus 434 from Sintra station to Pena Palace.
EUR14, 2 hours

11:30AM

Hike to Castle of the Moors

Explore this medieval castle with amazing views over Sintra.
Take a moderate hike from Pena Palace.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tascas de Sintra

Enjoy traditional Portuguese fare without breaking the bank.
Walk to Tascas de Sintra from the castle, about 20 minutes.
EUR12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Sintra Town

Discover Sintra's quaint streets and the iconic National Palace.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Lisbon

Take the train back to Lisbon to wrap up your adventurous trip.
Train station is nearby, walk back to the station.
EUR4, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Cantinho do Aziz

End your trip with a cozy dinner at this affordable restaurant serving delicious Mozambican cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant from the train station, 20 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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