Lisbon Layover: Exploring the City on Foot
On one of my trips to Morocco, I saw some cheaper flights with layovers in Lisbon and decided to make a one day layover into a mini solo adventure! I was flying home from Morocco earlier than my husband, and spent the day walking around exploring Lisbon. I was tickled to add a new country to my list that I’ve visited and was really impressed by the stunning city. I would 100% do it again and explore some more!Β Β
Lisbon (or Lisboa) is Portugal’s colorful capital, with winding streets, historic neighborhoods, and iconic yellow trams. Built across hills overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon has lively energy with old-world charm. I found it particularly fun to explore on foot despite the hills (worth the work out!).Β Β
Although I was in Lisbon for almost a day, the sun set relatively early so I only had about 5-6 hours of daylight to explore before evening time. I kept a change of clothes in my carry on and checked the rest so I only had to bring a small bag with me (which I was able to drop since I stayed overnight).
Due to the limited time, I decided to keep it simple and explore on foot just seeing how much I could make it to before dark. I grabbed a free map from the hostel and circled the places I’d like to see and then started off on my walk! I ended up sticking mostly to the historic center of the city and ventured in a loop.
Miradouro de SΓ£o Pedro de AlcΓ’ntara
I stayed overnight at a hostel near the Miradouro de SΓ£o Pedro de AlcΓ’ntara, a park with a great view over the city and river. I used this as my starting point for my walking tour of the city.Β
During my layover, there was a market in this park selling cute jewelry and other items so I took some time to browse before walking downhill towards the river.
Bica
I headed south and then west toward Bica, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods. In this neighborhood you can find the iconic yellow funicular, Elevador da Bica, climbing the steep Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo. I was specifically looking for this steep road and it did not disappoint! It’s probably one of the most photographed streets and it is what I picture when I picture Lisboa.Β
There are steps you can walk down the narrow Rua da Bica and I found it so crazy when one of the funiculars passed by!
Cais Do Sodre
After walking through Bica, I headed East toward Cais do Sodre which is a lively waterfront neighborhood where Lisbon meets the river. It’s full of restaurants, bars, and cafes. It’s also a big transportation hub, connecting the metro, trains, and ferries.Β
While walking through, I ended up stumbling upon Pink Street (or Rua Nova do Carvalho) without having known about it! The colorful umbrellas were so cute, I had to stop for a pic!
Praça do Comércio
I continued walking East until I hit PraΓ§a do ComΓ©rcio, Lisbon’s grand waterfront square. The square sits along the Tagus River and is surrounded by impressive yellow buildings.Β
Baixa de Lisboa
I passed under the Arco da Rua Augusta, and continued north through the central downtown district, Baixa.Β The pedestrian friendly Rua Augusta is filled with shops, cafes, and beautiful traditional architecture.Β
Elevador de Santa Justa
Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa lift) is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks connecting Baixa neighborhood with the streets of Bairro Alto area. I walked north through Baixa until I found the lift.Β
Built in the 1900s, this ornate neo-Gothic iron lift offers panoramic views of the Baixa neighborhood, Rossio Square, and Castle from the top observation deck.Β
There was a line to go up, but I didn’t have to wait long. Alternatively, you can walk up the hill through Carmo Convent area and access the upper bridge directly for a small fee (skipping the elevator line).Β
I didn’t catch much of a sunset as it was very cloudy during my layover, but I watched the city get dark from the observation deck. It was really cool to see the city lights start to come on.Β Β
After enjoying the views from the observation deck, I continued north through Bairro Alto back to my hostel to ask for some dinner recommendations. The winding streets are extra crazy at night!Β
Pastel de nata
You can’t visit Portugal without enjoying a pastel de nata, the famous egg custard tart! Before heading to the airport in the morning, I made a non-negotiable stop for a pastel de nata and coffee to go. Absolutely delicious.
Next time, I’d love to venture a bit further from the center and into Alfama. The short daylight hours just means I have a great excuse to come back!Β
Have you ever turned a layover into a mini adventure? Share your favorite short stopovers in the comments.
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