48 Hours in Lisbon: A Stylish Escape to Portugal’s Chic Capital

auroraroccauk
Aug 7
3 min read

Lisbon isn’t just a destination—it’s a mood. Think sun-drenched streets, timeless tiled facades, and a fashion-forward food and design scene that rivals any European capital. In just 48 hours, this guide will take you through the most Instagrammable spots, best views for a sunset dinner, and the perfect places to stay, sip, and soak in the style.

Day 1: Art, Altitude & Aperitifs

Wake up at The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, a former 18th-century palace turned boutique bolthole in Bairro Alto. The interiors blend clean modern lines with Portuguese flair, and the rooftop—Lumi Rooftop Bar—offers your first taste of Lisbon’s famous terracotta rooftops and golden-hour views. Order a pastel de nata and an espresso. You’re on Lisbon time now.

A short stroll downhill leads you to Rossio Gastrobar, a chic spot perched above the city’s iconic Rossio Square. The interiors channel urban luxe with soft lighting and velvet textures. The food? Modern Portuguese with international elegance—don't miss the sea bass ceviche.

Afternoons are made for wandering. Head to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, one of the city’s best panoramic viewpoints. Snap a few shots of the pastel-hued skyline and tag #ViewGoals. Then lose yourself in Chiado’s cobbled lanes, browsing boutiques, design stores, and the iconic Café A Brasileira.

Dinner is at Rocco, Lisbon’s latest It-restaurant where baroque elegance meets cosmopolitan cool. For late-night cocktails, seek out The Secret Garden, an intimate, greenery-draped terrace hidden in plain sight—a local secret worth keeping.

Day 2: Deco Dreams & Sunset Scenes

Swap neighborhoods and check into Hotel Britania Art Deco, a charming 1940s heritage stay just off Avenida da Liberdade. Every detail—from the cork flooring to the vintage radios—tells a story.

Your first stop: the Berardo Art Deco Museum, a visual feast for design lovers. Later, make your way to the riverside for a long lunch at Ponto Final. Cross the river by ferry and discover this minimalist gem with jaw-dropping views of the 25 de Abril Bridge.

If time allows, take a detour to Sintra and the fairy-tale Quinta da Regaleira—a gothic estate with spiral wells and mysterious gardens.

Return to Lisbon for one last toast at Império Bar, back at your hotel.

For your final evening, head to Buena Vista Social Club Lisboa in Cais do Sodré. This Cuban-inspired restaurant and lounge is a celebration of rhythm, color, and spice. Think mojitos, rum-glazed ribs, and live Latin jazz that stretches well into the night. It’s sultry, stylish, and the perfect way to end your Lisbon affair.

Getting There: Direct Flights from Ireland to Lisbon

From Dublin (DUB):

Ryanair: Offers direct flights to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) with return fares starting from approximately €66.68. Ryanair
Aer Lingus: Provides direct flights to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) with return fares starting from approximately €88.
TAP Air Portugal: Operates direct flights to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) with return fares starting from approximately €282.