Lisbon is one of the most unique European capitals. No matter how much time you have to explore the city, there are plenty of distinct landmarks, activities, and street art to make your one day in Lisbon truly memorable.
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One day in Lisbon Itinerary: History + Street Art (2026)
Is one day enough in Lisbon?
Since there are so many unique things to see and do in Lisbon, I would suggest spending at least 3-4 days in the Portuguese capital. Nevertheless, one day in Lisbon is still a great opportunity to visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, so 24 hours in Lisbon is definitely better than not visiting at all.
Is Lisbon a walkable city?
During my last 4-day itinerary in Lisbon, I thoroughly enjoyed walking around the city, although areas like Alfama and Bairro Alto were quite hilly.
What is Lisbon know for?
Lisbon is one of the most artistic capitals of Europe, captivating visitors with its charming, shabby architecture, vibrant tiles, and modern neighborhoods known for street art, such as LX Factory. Many of the city’s historic landmarks are tied to its rich maritime history and the Age of Discoveries, including iconic sites like Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle. From a cultural perspective, Lisbon is a perfect destination to experience Portugal’s traditional Fado music, as well as try local dishes like pasteis de nata and bacalhau, which are gaining popularity worldwide. Another unique feature of the city is its charming yellow Tram 28, which, much like San Francisco‘s cable cars, offers a nostalgic way to explore Lisbon’s picturesque neighborhoods.
Where to stay in Lisbon if you have one day
If your time in Lisbon is limited to 24 hours, choose hotels in the city center to make the most of your one-day itinerary, such as Hotel MeraPrime Gold, Lisboa Carmo Hotel, or Le Consulat.
One day in Lisbon Itinerary
Lisbon City Center
Spend your morning exploring the city center of Lisbon. The top three locations you shouldn’t miss are Praca do Comercio, one of Lisbon’s most iconic squares, which offers a glimpse into the city’s rich maritime past. This square once served as the main trading hub of Lisbon. Don’t forget to visit the Arco da Rua Augusta, another popular, Instagram-worthy spot in the city. After passing through the arch, head to the Santa Justa Lift, one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon, offering panoramic views of the city. This vertical lift was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, though it can often be crowded. If you only have one day in Lisbon, I wouldn’t recommend spending too much time here.
Instead, take a leisurely walk to the Alfama district, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon. Strolling through its narrow, cobbled streets, where you’ll find beautiful tiled buildings and charming courtyards, is the best way to experience the authentic vibe of the city.
If you have extra time, consider visiting São Jorge Castle for breathtaking views of the city and the river or the Lisbon Cathedral. Sao Jorge Castle is lovely, but it’s mostly known for its views, so if time is tight before lunch, feel free to skip it. Alternatively, you can enjoy Lisbon’s scenic views from Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara in the Bairro Alto neighborhood (which I’ll mention later in this itinerary).
Lunch in Lisbon
For lunch in Alfama, order bacalhau, salted cod, which is one of Portugal’s most popular dishes, prepared in local restaurants in many different ways. Check out Floresta Das Escadinhas, Lisboa Tu & Eu 2, A Nossa Casa and Duque Restaurante. Other popular dishes to try in Lisbon are Caldo Verde (green soup), Sardinhas Assadas (grilled sardines), Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice), Pasteis de Nata (custard tarts), and Feijoada (bean stew).
Modern side of Lisbon – Street art and LX Factory
For the afternoon, head to the LX Factory, a vibrant cultural and creative hub located in a former industrial complex of Lisbon. It’s a great spot to immerse yourself into Lisbon artsy side. The area is full of cool cafes, street art, unique shops, and art galleries. Do not miss the famous Ler Devagar bookstore, which is housed in a former printing press and is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Belem Tower
On your way back from LX Factory to the center of Lisbon, you can stop at Belem Tower, another iconic landmark of the city. While in the area, you can also visit Jeronimos Monastery and the famous Pasteis de Belem bakery. However, with only one day in Lisbon, it may be difficult to fit everything in. Even a quick stop at Belem Tower would make a great addition to your itinerary.
Bairro Alto
In the evening, dedicate time to Bairro Alto, one of Lisbon’s most lively and historic neighborhoods. Known for its nightlife, this district still retains its charm during the evening, with narrow streets filled with traditional shops, cafes, and vibrant street art. Here, you can also spot Lisbon’s famous Pink Street. Be sure to stop at Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, a viewpoint offering sweeping views of the city. It’s the perfect place to sit, relax, and admire the end of your day in Lisbon.
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‘Vibrant’ is the word I would use for Lisbon from what I’ve seen in your blog. A place full of energy, colors and life. Another artsy and beautiful gem undiscovered under your footsteps!!
The street-arts scenes in Lisbon bore a strong resemblance to NYC, the city that I live in where graffiti has evolved and become mainstream since the early 1980’s. From the days kids used to sneak through subway tunnels in search of unclaimed territories to the present even buildings or galleries owners would seek out to commission famous street artists for their creativity. It’s a beautiful transformation and street-arts has now become more accepted by the general public which I believe is due to its artistic recognition and the influence of the modern arts.
As always you have the most beautiful blog and again thank you so much for sharing!! 🙂
Thanks so much Kevin! Always so great to hear from you 😉
Didn´t get a chance to explore the NYC street art: been there for 10 days and still was not able to see all I had planned to [lol] I so agree that art gets more recognition across the globe, I have the same feeling as I travel and see more and more art pieces on the streets!
Love street art and Lisbon too for that matter. I never went up Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo so disappointed I missed out on that street art. It seems like some of the street art around LX has changed since I was there, so it’s cool to see the stuff I missed. Some really gorgeous work here.
Thanks, David!
I never been to Lisbon but the art work seems to be great. Sometimes a good art work can change the hole aspect of one building or a street. Thank you for sharing this with us!
Thanks, Oana! So true – a simple artwork can change the whole aspect of one building!
Wow didn’t see this on our recent day there, but will definitely look for it as I am sure we will return! Thanks for sharing! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks, Paul and Carole! I loved it there so much that I´ll def be back to Lisbon as well!
I love street art! I have not been to Lisbon yet, so will be sure to check out the street art scene when I do. You pictures are great, you really found some gems! Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard!
Thank you, Anisa!
Where do you guys find all this beautiful street art? I never seem to stumble upon any of these beautiful murals. It’s true that I haven’t been in Lisbon, but there is plenty of street art in other parts of the world, but I didn’t discover any yet. #TheWeeklyPostcard.
It´s also my story [lol] That´s why I´ve started researching the street art everywhere I go. Cause I´ve already missed so much across the globe! And sometimes all this street art reflects the dreams/views/problems of the locals better than other touristic places….
I just love street art. In fact the blog I posted this week is about the street art in Penang! I am looking forward to seeing more street art in my travels around the globe. I have pinned this post about Lisbon with the hope that one day I will get there to explore the streets and art myself. Lovely post, gorgeous photos Thank you
Loved your post from Penang! Just proves there are so many amazing art pieces around the world!
cool! I’ve been to Lisbon but haven’t seen these #theweeklypostcard
Thanks or stopping by, Tanja!
Wow! This is so cool! I wasn’t expecting the art to be that nice. I spend an entire day looking for murals, statues and other art forms. I have read about the We Hate Tourism Tours and they seem very good. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks Ruth! It has surprised me as well – both ancient and modern art pieces in Lisbon!
What talent! Street art always fascinates me and the spectrum of colors and styles it encompasses. Lisbon looks like a pretty neat place to visit. Your pictures always capture the beauty and essence of the places you visit. Thanks always for sharing.
Thanks a lot, Lisa!
I am in love with street art!! This is great! We loved the street art in the Azores and want to make it to Portugal, even more after reading your blog!
#TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks, Cathy! I´d love to visit the Azores one day as well, must be gorgeous over there!
Lisbon is on my to do list. The street art looks amazing !
Thanks for stopping by, Sam!
Great photos of interesting murals.
Thank you!
Some of this street art is absolutely stunning. I haven’t visited Lisbon yet but I hear good things. Will have to look up the LX factory when I visit.
Thanks for stopping by, Barry!
Street Art really is a topic that is coming through for most people when they travel these days and I absolutely love seeing the different styles around the world. It must be so much fun to wander around and capture these amazing scenes and give a different dimension to seeing a new place … I intend to do more of this in the future! Thank you for sharing this with us 🙂 #feetdotravel
Thanks for inviting me to the #feetdotravel, Angie! Really loved reading all these amazing stories from across the globe this weekend!
Your blog is amazing, Anna! First-time visitor and definitely not the last!
xx
AlexandraLuella.com
Thank you, Alexandra! Would love to see you around and chat! xo
I love the street art in Lisbon, every time I go back to the city I find beautiful new works. Can’t wait to visit again in the future. 😀 #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thank you, Vlad! You´re so right – I believe, next time I visit Lisbon it will be full of new inpiring murals again! It´s the best part about this city!
The street art is SO beautiful! I think that art is art, no matter if it is on a canvas or not. These photos really did the art pieces justice
Thanks for stopping by, Brianna!
How the heck did I miss all this beautiful graffiti when I was in Lisbon. This artwork is incredible!!!
Thanks for stopping by, Christopher! I was in awe myself: I was also the one always missing all the artworks everywhere before I literally started doing “the artworks reaserch” when planning a trip 😉
Fun post, and what interesting artworks! The last set is intriguing – are the windows actually bricked in, or is that more of the art?
I guess a lot of them were bricked in when the factory closed, but could be art in some cases as well! That´s the thing with modern art – you never know 😉
Wow! What vibrant street art. I’ve been reading more and more about Lisbon lately. I think it’s a sign to go!
Thank you! It´s definitely a sign to go! You won´t regret it 😉