W E L C O M E TO TH E
G O O D L I F E
I N
L I S B O N
P L A N N I N G
Lisbon is a city of hills, narrow streets, and hidden gems. There’s lots to explore, but it can be exhausting if you don’t have a bit of a plan.
While it’s compact enough to explore on foot, private transport or a well-organized itinerary can help you navigate its steep inclines and maximize your time. We of course have wonderful guides for exactly this purpose.
The best times to visit Lisbon are spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is warm but not overwhelming, and the city is less crowded than during the peak summer months. Winter, though cooler, has its own charm, especially with the cozy allure of Lisbon’s cafés and fado houses.
Base yourself in central neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado, or Bairro Alto for easy access to Lisbon’s key attractions.
Alternatively, consider the riverside district of Belém for a quieter stay near some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
M U S E U M & S I T E B O O K I N G
Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower: These UNESCO-listed sites in Belém are popular year-round. Skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the soft light on the river.
National Azulejo Museum: An essential stop for understanding Lisbon’s iconic tile art, this museum rarely feels overcrowded. No reservations are needed, but a private guide can enrich your visit with fascinating stories about the craftsmanship and history behind azulejos.
São Jorge Castle: Perched high above Alfama, the castle offers panoramic views of Lisbon. Arrive early to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before tour groups arrive.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum: This modern treasure houses a stunning collection of European, Islamic, and Asian art, the bequeathal of an Armenian businessman who spent his final years in Portugal. Rembrandt, Turner, René Lalique... it's quite a ride.
Book tickets online, and if you’re an art lover, plan for at least two hours to fully explore its exhibitions.
LX Factory: While not a traditional museum, this creative hub of shops, galleries, and eateries is a must for contemporary art and design enthusiasts. Entry is free, but workshops and events sometimes require special booking.
S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A R Y P O I N T S
DAY I
Historical Lisbon & Alfama’s Old-World Charm
Morning: Begin at Praça do Comércio, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, before heading to São Jorge Castle. Explore Alfama’s maze of streets, stopping at the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for sweeping views of the city.
Lunch: Dine at a small tasca in Alfama. Have a go at traditional dishes like bacalhau à lagareiro (Portuguese baked cod with potatoes) or caldo verde (soothing potato and kale soup), paired with a crisp vinho verde wine.
Afternoon: Visit the National Azulejo Museum, immersing yourself in the art of Portuguese tiles. From here, your guide can arrange transport back to the city center.
Evening: Go take in a fado performance in Alfama or Bairro Alto, paired with a meal of petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and wine.
DAY II
Monuments & Markets
Morning: Head to Belém to explore the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Follow this with a visit to the Monument to the Discoveries for a deeper understanding of Lisbon’s maritime history.
Lunch: Have something healthy, and then treat yourself to freshly baked pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém, the legendary pastry shop that originated the recipe. In all honesty however: don't make it a Quest to visit this particular shop, there are lots, the baking is superb all over, et cetera.
Afternoon: Stroll along the Tagus River or visit the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology), a striking contemporary building with exhibitions and a rooftop terrace.
Evening: Return to the city center for dinner in Chiado, try something a bit more upscale, contemporary, or otherwise just slightly more glamourous.
DAY III
Art, Culture & Hidden Gems
Morning: Start your day at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Alternatively, visit the Estrela Basilica for its serene beauty and nearby gardens.
Lunch: Venture to the LX Factory for a meal at one of its somewhat painfully hip eateries, followed by time to explore its quirky little shops and galleries.
Afternoon: Cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas via ferry for stunning views of Lisbon’s skyline. Visit the Cristo Rei statue, inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer.
Evening: Conclude your trip with a sunset drink at a rooftop bar, like the one at Park in Bairro Alto, before indulging in a final feast of Lisbon’s finest seafood.
You might also want to stay longer, and here’s why we think you should:
Sintra: A short train ride away, this fairy-tale town is home to whimsical palaces, lush gardens, and misty mountains. A day trip barely scratches the surface.
Cascais & Estoril: These coastal towns are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, with golden beaches, charming streets, and fantastic seafood restaurants.
Setúbal & Arrábida Natural Park: For wine enthusiasts and nature lovers, you can absolutely have at it with vineyard tours, scenic hikes, and hidden beaches just an hour from Lisbon.
DAY IV PLUS
M E E T Y O U R G U I D E
All of our guides can offer you a spectacular experience. As each person has a slightly different look at the world, due to their own unique interests and specialties, we'd encourage you to read a few profiles.
