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Lisbon, Portugal - colorful Alfama district and tram 28 cover photo

2-Day Lisbon for Foodies and Culture Explorers on a Budget

🎒Budget Travel🏛️Culture & History🍽️Authentic Food💎Hidden Gems
2 daysspring

Explore Lisbon's authentic cuisine, local hidden gems, and rich history with a budget-conscious, food enthusiast, and culture lover itinerary.

Our #1 travel tip

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.

A local guide takes you around for 2-3 hours covering all the main sights and hidden gems. It's 100% tip-based. Guides only earn what you give them at the end, so they bring their absolute best every time. Passionate storytelling, insider tips, restaurant recommendations you won't find online.

Do this on your first day. You'll get your bearings, learn the history, and get personal recommendations from a local for the rest of your stay.

Browse FREE walking tours
Day 1Orientation and Alfama Neighborhood Exploration
Morning
Free Walking Tour

Estimated time: 2.5h

Join a free walking tour to get oriented and learn history from a local guide.

Explore vibrant streets filled with stunning architecture and rich history. You'll typically walk through charming neighborhoods, discovering local culture and iconic landmarks. Local guides often share intriguing stories and insights that bring each stop to life, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Book FREE walking tour
Late Morning
Alfama District

Estimated time: 2h

Explore narrow streets, local hangouts, and visit lesser-known courtyards.

4.7(40,764 reviews)
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Lunch
Time Out Market Lisboa

Estimated time: 1.5h

Discover diverse local foods under one roof with affordable prices.

4.4(72,021 reviews)
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Afternoon
São Jorge Castle

Estimated time: 1.5h

Visit castle and enjoy panoramic city views.

4.5(98,496 reviews)
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Late Afternoon
Underground Fado House Experience

Estimated time: 1.5h

Discover authentic Fado music in a cozy underground setting popular with locals.

Dinner
Local Neighborhood Restaurant

Estimated time: 1.5h

Try affordable traditional Portuguese dishes at a neighborhood gem.

Meals

LunchDiverse stalls at Time Out Market Lisboa12 EUR
DinnerTraditional Portuguese meal at local restaurant12 EUR
Use tram 28 and walk for best access to Alfama and São Jorge Castle.
Day 2Belém and Hidden Food Experiences
Morning
Jerónimos Monastery

Estimated time: 1.5h

Visit this iconic monastery early to avoid crowds.

4.5(59,166 reviews)
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Mid-Morning
Belém Tower

Estimated time: 1h

Explore this historical fortification by the river.

4.5(110,975 reviews)
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Late Morning
Pastéis de Belém Bakery

Estimated time: 0.5h

Sample famous custard tarts at the bakery known to locals.

4.6(96,155 reviews)
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Lunch
Street Food Tour

Estimated time: 2h

Explore local markets and food stalls to taste varied traditional street foods.

Exploring the vibrant local food scene offers a delicious way to experience the culture, with an array of flavors from fresh seafood to traditional pastries. Travelers typically enjoy tasting small dishes while strolling through bustling markets or lively neighborhoods. Local guides often share insights into the culinary traditions and history, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.

Afternoon
Monument to the Discoveries

Estimated time: 1h

Visit a unique monument with waterfront views.

4.6(63,351 reviews)
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Late Afternoon
Cooking Class for Regional Cuisine

Estimated time: 2h

Join an affordable cooking class featuring Portuguese dishes.

You'll typically begin by learning about fresh, local ingredients that are staples in the region's dishes. Local guides often share insights into traditional cooking methods and cultural significance. Most classes include hands-on preparation of authentic recipes, offering a flavorful and immersive way to connect with the culinary heritage.

Meals

LunchVarious street food options on tour10 EUR
DinnerSelf-cooked meal from cooking classIncluded in class
Use tram and bus to reach Belém district and return downtown.

Additional popular things to do in Lisbon, Portugal

Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers

Budget Breakdown

Accommodation / night$55
Food / day$24
Transport / day$8
Activities / day$10
Daily total$97
Trip total$194

Accommodation: Budget hostel, Food: mix of market and restaurant meals, Transport: public transport day pass, Activities: free walking tour and modest entry fees.

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