How to spend 72 hours in Lisbon

We get a whole lot of travel inspiration from our fave content creators – maybe none more so than Lisbon local and friend of Locke Matilde Espírito Santo. Who better than a travel-minded insider to show us around the city? Read on to find out how she’d choose to spend 3 days in Lisbon, Portugal with her adorable pup, Poppy.

Start your day at Castro’s.

Want to taste a pastel de nata before you even set foot out the hotel door? Shuffle downstairs to Locke de Santa Joana’s in-house café, Castro’s, for breakfast goodies – including pastries, grain bowls, juices and coffee by local partner Olisipo – to take back to bed, or grab and go to fuel your adventures around the city.

Head over to Pantheon.

Built in the seventeenth century as the church of Santa Engrácia, this monument was later converted into the National Pantheon to house the tombs of important people. Architecture and history buffs will fawn over the impressive Baroque building, and the views from the roof are totally worth the climb.

Go treasure-hunting at Feira da Ladra.

Held every Tuesday and Saturday in Campo de Santa Clara, this sprawling flea market showcases an eclectic mix of bric-a-brac and antiques scattered among new pieces, arts and crafts. Don’t miss the Santa Clara Market in the middle, where you’ll find more pieces you’ll actually want to take home.

Keep your energy going with a caffeine fix at Dramático Café.

This teeny tiny coffee shop radiates calm thanks to its minimalist aesthetic and friendly, laid back atmosphere – a welcome break from the hustle and bustle outside.

Shop until you drop at Embaixada LX.

Based in a 20th century neo-Moorish palace in the trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood, this concept store is home to a host of Portuguese designers and creators, along with three tempting restaurants. The architecture alone is worth visiting for – one of the most beautiful shopping spaces we’ve flashed our credit cards in.

Start your second day with some people-watch in Príncipe Real Square.

At the heart of Lisbon’s coolest hood you’ll find this leafy square, where a garden and café kiosk are flanked by buzzing restaurants and colourful nineteenth century mansions. Don’t miss the farmers’ market on Saturdays from 9am until 3pm – the perfect people-watching opportunity.

Feast on freshly baked deliciousness at DoBeco.

This artisanal bakery in Santos is an absolute must for breakfast, brunch, or any other excuse you can think of. You can’t go wrong with their rich, flavourful coffee and sensational, freshly baked bread and pastries. But a special mention is reserved for the carbonara eggs and creamy pistachio latte – heaven.

Feed your curiosity and creativity at MAAT.

The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology Is based across two buildings: the technical museum is in a restored power plant, while the art museum showcases changing exhibitions in a modern hall. We recommend catching the sunset from the top of the art building – glorious views, for free.

Indulge your inner bookworm at Salted Books.

There’s no way you can come away from this beautiful, woman-owned, English-language bookshop in Santos empty-handed. Join in with the morning writers’ hour, catch a talk, or just while away an afternoon perusing the inspiring shelves. Looking for your next read? The friendly staff are eager to recommend. 

Savour Portuguese cuisine at Santa Joana.

The best way to explore a new place is via your taste buds – and where better than at Locke de Santa Joana’s in-house elevated Portuguese brasserie, led by internationally acclaimed chef Nuno Mendes. Find a cosy, candlelit corner and tuck into the likes of foraged mushrooms, caramelised squid, and grilled Alentejo pork. Yum.

Want to start the day in style? Choose Locke de Santa Joana’s bed and breakfast rate to wake up to a buffet breakfast in this chic spot.

Let your hair down at Spiritland.

Head three floors below ground at Locke de Santa Joana to uncover a late-night DJ and cocktail bar featuring local and global residencies, open Wednesday to Saturday from 7pm until 1am. 

Start your third and final day by getting the shot in Bica.

Wander along Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, whose colourful, tile-covered buildings, stunning vistas of São Bento Palace and sightings of the iconic Bica funicular make it Lisbon’s most photographed street. Then duck into one of its many bars and restaurants to soak up the neighhourgood’s buzzing atmosphere.

Admire Portuguese tile art at Museu do Azulejo.

Intricate, colourful glazed tiles are one of Lisbon’s most famous motifs, so you can’t skip a visit to the city’s National Tile Museum. Learn about the origins and evolution of Portuguese tile art with a collection dating back to the 1400s in the magnificent Convent of Madre de Deus – which, founded in 1509, is a sight in itself.

Got a few more days before you head home? Take a look at what Matilde recommends for those with a few extra days in the city…

Take in the sights at Miradouro da Graça.

The place to head for stunning views of the city, from the castle all the way up to the iconic 25 de Abril bridge and the river, including Mouraria and downtown Lisbon. When the weather’s good, the vibe is great – grab a drink from the café and settle in to watch the sun set over this pretty city.

Enjoy lunch al fresco at Santa Marta.

Inspired by the bold flavours and fresh ingredients of the Mediterranean, Locke de Santa Joana’s second, more casual all-day in-house restaurant serves antipasti, fresh pasta, woodfired pizza and grilled meats and fish on a glorious terrace overlooking the pool. Talk about holiday feels.

Pick up souvenirs with a difference at A Vida Portuguesa.

From vintage-inspired bowls and traditional linen placemats to rosemary-and-clay olive oil soap and plush wool scarves, everything in this chic boutique is curated to showcase Portuguese craftsmanship. Based in an ex-perfume factory with original cabinetry, even the stunning setting oozes heritage and sophistication

Listen along at The Kissaten.

Love vinyl and whiskey? Locke de Santa Joana’s in-house Japanese-inspired listening whiskey bar (open Mondays to Fridays from 7pm until 1am) might just be your new favourite spot. Housing a 100-strong whiskey selection and extensive vinyl library, you could easily lose hours sampling tipples and tracks. 

Music mavens: dig deeper into the sounds of Lisbon with Spiritland and The Kissaten DJ and programmer Mario Valente.

Looking for even more spots to add to your must-visit list? Add this five-day itinerary to your to-do list, read Head Hosts Priscila and Pedro’s recommendations, or check out Lisbon local and photographer Luísa Bravo’s favourite springtime spots.

Where to stay in Lisbon.

Locke de Santa Joana is a one-of-a-kind lifestyle aparthotel in a renovated seventeenth-century convent in Lisbon. Even better, Locke de Santa Joana is a dog-friendly hotel. To book, select 'WOOF Package' under 'Enhance your stay' – or find out more about dog friendly stays at Locke.