Lisbon
Lisbon is an exciting city rich in history and vibrant culture. Picture yourself gliding through its colorful streets on the iconic yellow trams, capturing the stunning street art and beautifully tiled buildings. The neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto are alive with music, relaxed atmospheres, and exceptional cuisine. From nearby beaches to ancient castles, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the city’s many hills, Lisbon offers a wide range of experiences.
Whether you’re interested in culture, adventure, or simply having a great time, the city has something for every young traveler to enjoy!
Sample 4 Day / 3 Night Itinerary
Day 1
- Flight from Ireland to Lisbon – see below for flight schedules serving Lisbon.
- Fly into Lisbon and enjoy a coach transfer to meet your guide at the airport. Kick off your adventure with a scenic bus tour of the city, followed by a guided walk through the vibrant Bairro Alto.
- In the evening, dive into a fun Escape Room challenge, and cap off the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the authentic flavors of Lisbon.
- Transfer to accommodation for check-in and evening meal.
Day 2
- After breakfast, start your day by stepping back in time at The Earthquake Museum, where you’ll learn how the devastating 1755 earthquake reshaped Lisbon forever.
- Explore the underwater world at Aquário Vasco da Gama, a fascinating aquarium showcasing a variety of marine life, making it both educational and fun!
- For lunch, treat yourself to a delicious gourmet burger at a local hotspot, fueling up for an afternoon of exploration. Head to the Belém Tower, one of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks, and a short walk away is the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site with intricate architecture and deep historical significance.
- End the day in style with a sunset boat party, cruising with music, pizza, and unbeatable views of the city as the sun sets.
- Return to accommodation and overnight.
Day 3
- Breakfast at accommodation.
- We’ll start with a two-hour visit to the stunning Park and Palace of Pena, then head to Quinta da Regaleira. After a scenic 40-minute drive, we’ll enjoy lunch at Mensagem restaurant on Praia das Maçãs.
- Next, we’ll visit the cliffs of Praia das Azenhas do Mar, followed by a drive through Guincho Beach and Cascais, and a stop at Cabo da Roca. Afterward, we’ll visit Boca do Inferno before passing by Cascais Marina, Casino Estoril, and Praia de Carcavelos on our way to dinner at Capricciosa Artesans Pizzas
- Return to accommodation and overnight.
Day 4
- Breakfast in accommodation and checkout from accommodation.
- First stop will be a visit to the iconic Benfica Football Stadium.
- Afterward, we’ll enjoy a packed lunch from the hotel before heading to Adventure Park for an exciting afternoon of laser tag (1.5 hours) and high ropes circuits (2 hours). We’ll then have a meal at Restaurant Calorias.
- Transfer to the airport for return flight home. See below for an indication of the airports in or around Lisbon that serve the Irish market.
Building Your Itinerary - Cornerstones
Cornerstones are the attractions that should form the core of any itinerary – the “do not miss” items!
For us there are 4 such cornerstones to a Lisbon itinerary:
Bairro Alto Exploration: Kick off your adventure with a guided walk through Bairro Alto, a vibrant district known for its colorful streets, nightlife, and stunning viewpoints. This area offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s rich culture and is a perfect introduction to the city.
Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery: Visit the iconic Belém Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, and the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Aquário Vasco da Gama: Dive into the underwater world at Aquário Vasco da Gama, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. It features diverse marine life and engaging exhibits that make it both educational and entertaining.
Sunset Boat Party: This unique experience allows you to see the city from a different perspective while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Itinerary - Day Trips
Évora: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage city of Évora, famous for its well-preserved Roman Temple and the eerie Chapel of Bones. Wander through the charming streets lined with historic buildings and sample local Alentejo cuisine at a traditional restaurant.
Arrábida Natural Park: Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Arrábida Natural Park, known for its stunning cliffs and pristine beaches. Enjoy hiking trails with panoramic views, relax on the sandy shores of Praia dos Galápos, and savor local wine and seafood in the nearby town of Setúbal.
Obidos and Alcobaça: Visit the medieval town of Óbidos, famous for its charming cobbled streets and well-preserved castle. Continue to Alcobaça to explore the impressive Alcobaça Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Gothic architecture and beautiful gardens.
Nazaré: Explore the coastal town of Nazaré, renowned for its stunning beaches and massive waves, popular among surfers. Visit the picturesque lighthouse at Praia do Norte, stroll along the vibrant promenade, and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Porto: Embark on a trip to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Stroll along the historic Ribeira district, visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and explore the famous Livraria Lello bookstore and many more.
Itinerary Fillers and Evening Activities
Filling time and gaps in an itinerary won’t be a problem in Lisbon – trying to cut out attractions will be the challenge!
Learn the art of making Portugal’s beloved Pastel de Nata in a hands-on cooking class.
Lisbon 8 Viewpoints Walking Tour: Explore Lisbon’s beauty from its most iconic viewpoints on a 4-hour and 30-minute walking tour.
Parque das Nações Cable Car: Glide over the Lisbon waterfront on the Parque das Nações Cable Car, enjoying sweeping views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge, the Tagus River, and the modern architecture of this vibrant district.
National Museum of Ancient Art: Dive into Portugal’s rich history at the National Museum of Ancient Art.
Accommodation Options
Our preferred accommodation is Sant Jordi Hostels Lisbon: an elegant and modern hostel, very close to the center of Lisbon. You will be amazed by the building, constructed at the beginning of the 20th century, with its majestic essence combined with modern comforts for your enjoyment. With access to on-site amenities like communal kitchen, lounge areas, and a cozy outdoor terrace, it’s a fantastic base for relaxation after a day of exploring.
We offer the possibility of staying in 2/3-star hotels, subject to price change and availability.
A great option for students is a camping site offering cozy bungalows and dormitories. Set in a natural setting, it includes shared kitchens, lounge areas, and outdoor spaces ideal for relaxation and group activities.
Breakfast and dinners are provided, unless specified in the itinerary.
Connections from Ireland
Flight routes change all the time, but currently the options include:
- Dublin to Lisbon.
