Lisbon in 2 Days: A Whirlwind Tour of Portugal’s Coastal Gem

Lisbon’s steep hills and tiled facades echo San Francisco, but its maritime history and golden light are uniquely Portuguese. After two weeks in Europe, we kept this visit short but sweet—here’s how to maximize 48 hours. 🌇 Day 1: Historic Heart 🚖 Get around with Uber (saves time on hills!). 📍 Alfama District: Maze-like alleys, fado music, and Lisbon Cathedral (built atop a mosque). 📍 Viewpoints: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (free panoramic perch). Miradouro da Graça (better vibe with a lively square). 📍 Commerce Square: Europe’s grand arcaded plaza by the Tagus River. 📍 Augusta Arch: Statues honor explorers; reclining figures symbolize Portugal’s two great rivers. 📍 Time Out Market: Overwhelming food options—grab a bifana (pork sandwich) or ginjinha (cherry liqueur). 📍 Castle of São Jorge: Ancient Moorish fortress with epic city views. 📍 Tram 28: Nostalgic ride through Alfama (use 24h transit pass). 📍 Santa Justa Lift: Neo-Gothic elevator to a rooftop panorama. 🍽 Dinner: The Decadente (book ahead—former Swiss embassy with killer bacalhau). ⛵ Day 2: Belém’s Golden Age 📍 Jerónimos Monastery: Manueline architecture masterpiece (arrive by 9 AM to skip lines). 📍 Pastéis de Belém: The OG custard tart (since 1837!)—eat warm with cinnamon. 📍 Belém Palace: Snap pics of the presidential residence. 📍 Monument to the Discoveries: Tribute to Portugal’s navigators (climb for river views). 📍 Belém Tower: Iconic 16th-century fortress on the water. 📍 25 de Abril Bridge: Lisbon’s “Golden Gate,” glowing at sunset. 🎨 Bonus (If Time Allows) Tile Museum: Dive into Portugal’s azulejo obsession. Puppet Museum: Quirky deep-cut for families. #LisbonIn2Days #PortugalQuickTrip #ViewpointHopping