7 days itinerary in Lisbon, Portugal

9:00 - 10:00

Explore the grand Praça do Comércio, a historic square that opens up to the Tagus River. Stroll along the waterfront promenade Ribeira das Naus for stunning views and photo opportunities. Stand under the Arco da Rua Augusta for a unique perspective of the square and its bustling life. Visit Cais das Colunas for a serene view of the square illuminated at night.

Tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture beautiful sunrise photos at Ribeira das Naus. Don't miss the intricate details of the Arco da Rua Augusta. In the evening, head to Cais das Colunas for a romantic and calm atmosphere with soft lighting.

10:30 - 11:30

Experience the unique architectural design of the Santa Justa Lift, an iconic elevator in Lisbon's historic center. Ride the lift to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon's rooftops and the Tagus River. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Largo do Carmo after your ride.

Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid long queues. Capture stunning photos from the top, especially in the late afternoon when the light is perfect. At night, head to Largo do Carmo viewpoint for a beautifully illuminated view of the lift.

12:00 - 13:00

Explore the oldest church in Lisbon, the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major. Admire the Romanesque architecture, visit the cloister garden for a peaceful retreat, and don't miss the treasury museum which houses religious artifacts and relics.

Tips: Visit around noon to capture stunning photos of the main façade with optimal lighting. After your visit, take a short walk to Miradouro das Portas do Sol for a breathtaking view of the cathedral and the Tagus River.

13:30 - 14:30

15:00 - 16:30

Explore the historic São Jorge Castle and immerse yourself in its rich history. Visit the Ulysses Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of Lisbon, including the Tagus River and the city's red roofs. Wander through the serene Castle Gardens where peacocks roam freely, and enjoy the contrast of ancient walls and lush greenery.

Tips: Visit the Ulysses Tower in the morning for the clearest views with less haze. The soft afternoon light in the Castle Gardens provides a beautiful setting for photography. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps and uneven surfaces within the castle grounds.

10:30 - 11:30

Explore the vibrant art installations and graffiti that adorn the streets of LX Factory. Visit the unique shops and boutiques for some eclectic shopping, and enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many trendy cafes and restaurants. Don't miss the rooftop terrace of Rio Maravilha for stunning panoramic views of the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best photos. Check out the events calendar as LX Factory often hosts markets, concerts, and exhibitions. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets.

12:00 - 16:30

Explore the diverse range of animals and exhibits at Lisbon Zoo, including the reptile house, primate island, and the dolphin show. Take a relaxing ride on the zoo's cable car for a unique aerial view of the entire park. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Flamingo Pond for some vibrant photo opportunities.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The best time for photography at the Flamingo Pond is early morning. Make sure to check the schedule for the dolphin show and other animal feedings to plan your visit accordingly.

17:00 - 18:30

Explore the vast green spaces and take a leisurely stroll through the park. Visit the Estufa Fria greenhouse to see a variety of exotic plants and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to capture stunning photos from the top of the park, where you can see the Marquês de Pombal statue and Avenida da Liberdade.

Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography. The Estufa Fria closes at 6 PM, so make sure to visit it first. Wear comfortable shoes as the park is quite large and involves a lot of walking.

19:00 - 20:00

10:00 - 11:00

Explore the 16th-century fortification that served as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon and a point of embarkation for Portuguese explorers. Walk through the various levels of the tower, including the terrace, to appreciate the intricate Manueline architecture and historical significance. Don't miss the opportunity to capture stunning photos from the riverside walkway and the terrace.

Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. The tower is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a perfect spot for evening photography. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb.

11:30 - 12:30

Indulge in the world-famous pastéis de nata at this iconic bakery. Enjoy the freshly baked pastries with a cup of coffee while soaking in the historic ambiance. Don't miss the chance to explore the charming interior and observe the pastry-making process through the glass windows.

Tips: Visit during the late morning to avoid the peak lunch crowd. Capture memorable photos at the front counter and outside seating area. The bakery can get busy, so consider arriving a bit earlier to secure a good spot.

13:00 - 14:00

14:30 - 16:30

Explore the stunning Gothic architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the South Portal to admire its intricate carvings and statues, and take a peaceful stroll through the Cloisters to experience the serene ambiance created by the interplay of light through the arches.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best photos at the South Portal and Cloisters. Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries for a full day of historical exploration.

10:00 - 12:30

Explore the vast central tank that houses a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. Walk through the different habitats representing the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans. Don't miss the temporary exhibitions that often feature unique marine species and ecosystems.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best views of the exhibits. Consider taking a ride on the nearby cable cars for a stunning aerial view of the Oceanário and Parque das Nações. Check out the gift shop for unique marine-themed souvenirs.

13:00 - 14:00

14:30 - 15:30

Enjoy the panoramic view of Lisbon from the terrace, capturing the scenic beauty of the Tagus River and the iconic red roofs. Explore the garden area for a more intimate setting and detailed shots of the beautiful azulejos. Visit the terrace at night to experience a romantic and serene atmosphere with the illuminated city below.

Tips: Visit during the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light for your photos. Be mindful of your belongings as it can get crowded. Don't miss the chance to photograph the azulejos, which depict historical scenes of Lisbon.

16:00 - 17:00

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Lisbon from the garden terrace, where you can see the castle and the river. Visit the upper level for a less obstructed view of the city lights at night, with illuminated streets and buildings creating a beautiful tapestry of light.

Tips: Visit during the late afternoon to catch the sunset and stay until evening to see the city lights come alive. The garden terrace is a great spot for photography, so bring your camera. Be mindful of your belongings as it can get crowded.

10:00 - 13:00

Explore the enchanting gardens and discover hidden tunnels and grottoes. Visit the gothic palace and marvel at its intricate architecture. Don't miss the Initiation Well, a spiraling staircase that descends into the earth, offering a mystical experience. Capture stunning photos at the Palace Terrace with its breathtaking views of the estate.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Arrive early to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience. Bring a camera to capture the unique photo spots like the Initiation Well and Palace Terrace. Check for any guided tours available to learn more about the history and secrets of Quinta da Regaleira.

13:30 - 14:30

15:00 - 16:30

Explore the grandiose Baroque and Neoclassical architecture of the Mafra National Palace. Visit the Royal Library, one of the most beautiful in the world, and marvel at its collection of over 36,000 volumes. Don't miss the Basilica with its stunning twin bell towers and intricate interior. Take a leisurely stroll through the palace's expansive gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Tips: Plan your visit to include the late afternoon to capture beautiful photos of the Basilica Entrance as it gets spectacularly lit at night. The Palace Front Courtyard is also a great spot for photos, especially in the soft morning light. Check if there are any guided tours available to enhance your understanding of the palace's rich history.

10:00 - 11:00

Marvel at the towering statue of Christ the King, inspired by Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer. Take a leisurely walk around the base to enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture stunning photos of Lisbon's skyline and the Tagus River. For an unforgettable experience, ascend to the top of the monument for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. Don't forget to bring a camera for breathtaking shots from various viewpoints, especially from across the river at night. Consider paying the small fee to access the top of the monument for unparalleled views.

11:30 - 12:30

Explore the Monument of the Discoveries, which commemorates Portugal's Age of Exploration. Take an elevator ride to the top for panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Visit the exhibition hall to learn about the history of Portuguese explorers and their voyages.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best photos. Don't miss the intricate mosaic map on the ground in front of the monument, which depicts the routes of Portuguese explorers. Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

13:00 - 14:00

14:30 - 15:30

Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the iconic Torre de Belém. Take a leisurely stroll along the pathways, enjoy the scenic views of the Tagus River, and capture stunning photos at the designated photo spots such as the Southwest Corner by the River, Interior Terrace, and Garden Pathway Entrance.

Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light for photography. The Garden Pathway Entrance is beautifully lit at night, offering a magical view of the illuminated tower. Don't forget to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

16:00 - 17:00

Explore the historic square named after Portugal's famous poet, Luís de Camões. Admire the statue of Luís de Camões at the center of the square, and take in the surrounding historic buildings. Capture the essence of Lisbon from the steps of the nearby church, which offer a great vantage point over the bustling square.

Tips: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and capture beautiful photos from the steps of the church. The square is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for crowds.

10:00 - 11:00

Explore the diverse food stalls offering a variety of local and international cuisines. Enjoy a meal from one of Lisbon's top chefs, and don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Portuguese dishes like pastéis de nata and bacalhau. Wander through the market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and discover unique culinary delights.

Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and get the freshest food. Head to the second floor for a great view of the market and perfect photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for special events or live music performances that often take place in the market.

11:30 - 13:00

Explore the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) to delve into contemporary art exhibitions and innovative architectural designs. Take a stroll along the riverside to appreciate the building's unique, wave-like structure and visit the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

Tips: Visit early in your time slot to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore. Don't miss the photo spots: capture the MAAT's architecture from the riverside and from the overpass nearby for stunning views, especially at night.

13:30 - 14:30

15:00 - 16:30

Explore the vast artistic venues of the Belém Cultural Center, including the Berardo Collection Museum which houses contemporary art. Stroll through the gardens and admire the Monument to the Discoveries. Don't miss the main square, especially if you can stay until evening to see it beautifully lit.

Tips: Visit the Berardo Collection Museum for a dose of modern art. The gardens and Monument to the Discoveries are perfect for photography. If possible, plan to stay until nightfall to capture stunning photos of the main square illuminated.