24 hours in Lisbon
From morning espressos to soulful dinners, from cultural gems to lively shopping streets, here’s our ultimate guide to savouring 24 hours in Lisbon.
Set on the scenic Tagus River, Lisbon is a city of UNESCO World Heritage architecture, captivating cultural sites, avant-garde shopping and world-class dining. From the vast collection at the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian to a foodie trail through Lisbon’s Mercado da Ribeira and a trip to the ancient Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, there’s a lot to soak up in this buzzing city. For those with just 24 hours in Lisbon, we’ve put together this must-see guide for travellers on a tight schedule.
Morning: the Gulbenkian and shopping at Embaixada
Begin your 24 hours in Lisbon with breakfast al fresco among olive trees at Olivae Restaurant & Terrace at Corinthia Lisbon. Energised and indulged, set out on your cultural journey with a visit to the world-renowned Museu Calouste Gulbenkian – an architectural jewel and treasure trove of art, just a leisurely 15-minute stroll from the hotel. With over 1,000 pieces on display (and many thousands more in its collection), you can take a journey from Ancient Egypt to medieval France in one morning. It’s the perfect spot to while away an afternoon, but with just 24 hours in Lisbon, we’d recommend you stick to our curated list of the top 10 things to see at the Gulbenkian.
From one set of hallowed halls to another (this time of the retail variety), Embaixada is a venerated Portuguese shopping gallery, housing everything from cosmetics to eco home design within its 19th-century Moorish-themed interiors – the courtyard at Le Jardin is a particularly lovely spot for a mid-morning cuppa, should you need a caffeine fix.
Afternoon: exploring the Mercado Da Ribiera and the Mosteiro Dos Jerónimos
Head straight for the food court at Mercado da Ribeira (the city’s biggest food market) and try a little bit of everything. Opened in 2014 to great acclaim, you’ll find 35 kiosks here offering all kinds of goodies, from Azeitão sheep’s cheese to those ubiquitous Portuguese custard tarts. With only 24 hours in Lisbon, make sure to set aside some time to see the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, or Hieronymite Monastery. Although only a 15-minute taxi ride from the market, its vaulted cloisters, historic high altars and intricate, grand statuary is a world away from modern-day Lisbon. Built in the 15th century by King Manuel I, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfectly preserved slice of Portuguese history and a beautiful, peaceful place to visit.
From here, there are two cultural experiences to choose from, both within easy strolling distance. Take in sweeping city views and UNESCO World Heritage architecture at the Torre de Belém, or explore Lisbon’s fascinating maritime history at the Museu Marinha. But before you go, treat yourself to one of the city’s best custard tarts from nearby Antiga Confeitaria de Belem.
Lisbon by night: dinner at Belcanto and a tour of the Bairro Alto
As night falls, Lisbon’s culinary scene comes alive. You might opt for a Michelin-starred evening at Belcanto or dine at one of Corinthia Lisbon’s award-winning restaurants, from contemporary Portuguese cuisine at Erva to Mediterranean flavours served al fresco beneath the stars at Olivae. After dinner, unwind at Soul Garden with perfectly crafted cocktails amid a lush, cosmopolitan setting.
Whether you choose world-class dining, live music or a moonlit stroll through the charming streets of Bairro Alto, your perfect 24 hours in Lisbon will conclude with a restful night in the elegant and comfortable surroundings of Corinthia Lisbon.
While you're here...
Erva Restaurant & Bar
Erva Restaurant & Bar
The vibrancy of Lisbon best experienced through contemporary Portuguese gastronomy served with notes of authentic and local flavours.
Soul Garden Restaurant & Bar
Soul Garden Restaurant & Bar
A soulful space, inspired by the elements of nature, offering a shared gastronomic journey that combines Asian and Latin American influences.
Olivae Restaurant & Terrace
Olivae Restaurant & Terrace
Experience the rich flavours of the Mediterranean at Olivae, where fun-seeking diners can enjoy delicious dishes in a charming al fresco atmosphere.
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