Dreaming of a weekend getaway that perfectly blends historic charm with a vibrant modern buzz? Lisbon, with its sun-drenched hills, iconic trams, and profound coffee culture, is the ideal destination. This 3-day itinerary is designed to immerse you in the very best of the city’s culture and caffeine scene, ensuring a short trip that feels incredibly rich.
Day 1: Alfama’s Soul & Tram 28’s Charm
Morning (9:00 AM): Start your day where Lisbon itself began: the Alfama district. Skip the often-crowded São Jorge Castle and instead get lost in the labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets. Your first stop should be a pastelaria for a pastel de nata and a galão (a milky coffee served in a glass)—the quintessential Lisbon breakfast.
Afternoon (1:00 PM): Dive deeper into culture at the Lisbon Cathedral, the city’s oldest church. Then, embrace the city’s iconic mode of transport: Tram 28. Hop on for a rattling, roller-coaster ride through the historic quarters of Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. It’s a moving cultural tour in itself.
Evening (6:00 PM): As the sun begins to set, find a small wine bar for a pre-dinner glass of vinho verde. For dinner, seek out a traditional tasca (a local tavern) for authentic Portuguese petiscos (tapas) and grilled sardines if they’re in season.
Day 2: Belém’s Monuments & A Coffee Ritual
Morning (9:30 AM): Take a short tram or bus ride to Belém. Here, you’ll find two of Portugal’s most significant monuments: the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and the discoverer-launching Belém Tower. Pro tip: Buy your tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.
Late Morning (11:30 AM): No trip to Belém is complete without joining the line at Pastéis de Belém for the original, secret-recipe pastel de nata. Pair it with a bica (Lisbon’s term for a strong espresso). This is a coffee and culture pilgrimage in one.
Afternoon: Head back to the city center and explore the trendy Chiado neighborhood. It’s a perfect area for boutique shopping and, of course, another coffee break. Pop into A Brasileira, a historic café once frequented by poets and intellectuals.
Day 3: LX Factory’s Vibe & Sunset Views
Morning (10:00 AM): Cross under the 25 de Abril Bridge to the LX Factory. This regenerated industrial complex is now a hub of creativity, filled with unique shops, art galleries, and quirky cafes. It’s the perfect place to experience Lisbon’s contemporary cultural pulse. Enjoy a leisurely brunch and a flat white at one of the trendy spots here.
Afternoon: Make your way up to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia in Alfama for one last, breathtaking panoramic view of the city’s red roofs and the Tagus River. It’s the perfect, peaceful finale to your trip.
Evening: Before heading to the airport, savor your final Portuguese coffee—a carioca (a lighter espresso)—and reflect on a weekend perfectly spent, where every cultural discovery was beautifully complemented by the perfect cup of coffee.
