Lisbon is a city of light. From its golden-hour glow reflecting off the tiled facades to the sunlit miradouros offering panoramic views, the Portuguese capital never fails to dazzle. It’s a city steeped in history, with cobblestone streets that wind past pastel-hued buildings and Gothic ruins. But Lisbon is also undeniably modern, with a creative energy that pulses through its cafes, galleries, and music venues. Here’s the ultimate 24-hour Lisbon itinerary for a weekend well spent in the city.
Table of Contents
- Where to stay
- Where to get breakfast
- Where to grab a coffee
- Where to shop
- Where to grab a drink
- The must-see attraction
- Where to have dinner
- Where to dance
Where to stay
Wake up in the heart of Lisbon at The Ivens, a boutique hotel in Chiado that balances bold, eclectic design with impeccable comfort. For a more discreet experience, Sublime Lisboa offers understated luxury in a quiet corner of the city, with a focus on tailored service and contemporary design. Alternatively, the Bairro Alto Hotel combines five-star elegance with a prime location in one of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Where to get breakfast
Start your day at Nicolau Lisboa, a charming cafe where locals and visitors alike gather for hearty breakfast bowls, avocado toast, and excellent coffee. If you’re craving something different, Rhodo Bagels brings a slice of New York to Lisbon with its hand-rolled bagels and delicious toppings, perfect for a laid-back morning meal.
Where to grab a coffee
Lisbon’s cafe culture is thriving, and there’s no shortage of places to get your caffeine fix. Stop by The Folks Chiado, a stylish spot with expertly brewed specialty coffee and a laid-back vibe. For something a bit different, Buna celebrates coffee’s Ethiopian roots with a selection of rich, aromatic brews served in a minimalist setting.
Where to shop
For a taste of Lisbon’s contemporary style, head to ISTO, a brand championing sustainable, minimalist menswear that’s as functional as it is stylish. Nearby, JAK offers sleek, understated sneakers designed and handcrafted in Portugal. For something more traditional, Portuguese Flannel is the go-to for high-quality shirts made using artisanal techniques and timeless patterns.
Where to grab a drink
When the sun sets, Lisbon comes alive. Make sure your Lisbon itinerary includes a drink at Park Bar, a rooftop oasis perched atop a multi-storey car park, offering stunning views of the city and the Tagus River. For a cosier experience, Foxtrot is a speakeasy-style bar with vintage decor, serving up expertly crafted drinks in an intimate setting.
The must-see attraction
Lisbon’s streets are an open-air gallery, with vibrant street art bringing colour and creativity to every corner. For a more curated experience, head to the LX Factory, a converted industrial complex now home to boutiques, restaurants, and art studios. If you’re interested in cutting-edge design and innovation, the MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is a must-visit, housed in a striking modern building along the riverbank.
Where to have dinner
Dinner in Lisbon is a feast for the senses. The Time Out Market offers a curated selection of the city’s best culinary offerings, perfect for grazing and trying a bit of everything. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, look no further than Lisbon's underground culinary world of 'chinês clandestinos' – hidden, quasi-illegal, unregulated Chinese restaurants serving some of the most vibrant dining experiences in the city. If you’re after something contemporary and experimental, SEM is a gastronomic hotspot with a focus on creative, seasonal plates.
Where to dance
No Lisbon itinerary would be complete without diving into the city’s nightlife. Outra Cena, located in the trendy Cais do Sodré district, offers a relaxed vibe with great music and an inclusive atmosphere. For a more iconic experience, Lux Frágil is Lisbon’s premier clubbing destination, where world-class DJs spin tracks across multiple floors until the early hours.
Lisbon’s charm lies in its ability to feel timeless and vibrant all at once. With this 24-hour itinerary, you’ll experience both sides of the city – the historic and the modern, the serene and the lively. One day may not be enough, but it’s a start.
