Discover Lisbon in 3 days with your rental car

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If you are planning a trip to Lisbon in the near future, this post provides a detailed guide to a 3-day car rental tour of Lisbon, including the main tourist attractions and a selection of the best gastronomic delights the city has to offer.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Lisbon

Morning

Your first stop on this tour of Lisbon should be the Alfama district, the oldest neighbourhood in the city and a maze of cobbled streets that seem to have stood still in time. This neighbourhood is known for its rustic charm and traditional atmosphere. Drive to the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), an impressive building dating back to the 12th century that has survived numerous earthquakes. From there, walk to St. George’s Castle, a historic fortress that offers one of the best panoramic views of Lisbon. Take the opportunity to visit the Mirador de Santa Luzia, famous for its traditional tiles and view of the Tagus River.

Afternoon

After exploring Alfama, head to the Baixa district, the commercial heart of Lisbon. This area was completely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755, and its grid layout is a perfect example of the urban planning of the time. Don’t miss the Praça do Comércio, one of the most impressive squares in Europe, with its majestic triumphal arch leading to Rua Augusta, a pedestrianised street lined with shops and cafés. Take the Elevador de Santa Justa, a neo-Gothic lift that connects Baixa with the Chiado district. From its observation deck, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Lisbon’s rooftops.

Night

To end the day, we suggest you explore the Chiado neighbourhood and the nearby Bairro Alto. Chiado is an elegant area, known for its bookshops, historic cafés and theatres. It is the perfect place to enjoy dinner in one of its traditional restaurants. If you prefer a more lively atmosphere, Bairro Alto is the centre of Lisbon’s nightlife, with a large number of bars and restaurants where you can sample a wide variety of typical Portuguese dishes.

Day 2: Belém and Estoril Coast

Morning

The second day begins with a visit to the historic district of Belém, located in the west of Lisbon. This neighbourhood is famous for its emblematic monuments commemorating the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Your first stop should be the Belém Tower, a 16th century fortress that protected the entrance to Lisbon’s harbour and is one of the city’s most recognisable icons. A short distance away is the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of the Manueline style and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend time exploring its impressive cloister and church, where the tomb of Vasco da Gama is located.

Afternoon

After visiting Belém, it’s time to head towards the coast. Drive to the picturesque town of Cascais, located about 30 kilometres west of Lisbon. On the way, you can stop in Estoril, known for its beaches and famous casino. Once in Cascais, stroll through its charming historic centre, full of colourful houses, shops and cafés. Don’t miss the Boca do Inferno, a spectacular cliff where the sea has sculpted an impressive natural cave. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the sunset.

Evening

For dinner, Cascais offers an excellent selection of restaurants specialising in seafood. We recommend you try the seafood rice, a traditional Portuguese dish consisting of a brothy rice accompanied by a mixture of fresh seafood such as shrimps, clams and mussels. This dish is a real feast for lovers of seafood cuisine.

Day 3: Sintra, the Enchanted Forest

Morning

The third day of your driving tour of Lisbon will take you to Sintra, a magical village located about 30 minutes from the capital. Drive through green forests and mountains to reach the Palacio da Pena, a colourful fairytale castle perched on a hill. This palace, with its eclectic architecture and vibrant colours, is one of Sintra’s main attractions. Stroll through its gardens, which offer a mix of exotic species and tranquil ponds, and don’t miss the panoramic views from the palace towers.

Afternoon

After visiting the Pena Palace, continue your exploration at Quinta da Regaleira, a palace surrounded by gardens full of mystery. Here, you can lose yourself in its underground tunnels and discover fascinating sites such as the Initiatic Well, a spiral structure that descends into the depths of the earth. Later, visit the Moorish Castle, a fortress dating back to the 8th century, from where you can enjoy spectacular views of Sintra and its surroundings.

Night

Return to Lisbon for your last night and head to the Bairro Alto, known for its vibrant atmosphere and gastronomic offerings. For a memorable dinner, opt for traditional dishes such as bacalhau à brás, a delicious combination of shredded cod, fried potatoes and scrambled egg. If you’re looking for something more hearty, try cozido à portuguesa, a meat and vegetable stew that is a true classic of Portuguese cuisine.

Gastronomic Recommendations

No trip to Lisbon would be complete without enjoying its rich gastronomy. Get to know Portugal through its gastronomy: the typical Portuguese dishes you must try. Here are some essential recommendations to try on your route:

• Bacalhau à Brás: One of Portugal’s most emblematic dishes, made with shredded cod, fried potato strips and egg. Served with parsley and olives, it is a real delicacy.
• Sardinhas Assadas: Roasted sardines are a typical dish, especially popular during the festivities of St. Anthony in June, but enjoyed all year round. They are usually served with potatoes and salad.
• Arroz de Marisco: A rich, brothy rice dish prepared with a variety of fresh seafood. It is a dish that brings out the flavours of the Atlantic and is ideal for sharing.
• Pastéis de Nata: The small cream tarts known as pastéis de nata are an icon of Portuguese pastry making. Although the most famous are the Pastéis de Belém, available in a pastry shop of the same name, you can find delicious versions all over Lisbon.

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