Traveling between JFK and Zurich in May, we have the possibility of scheduling a 8-9 hour layover in Lisbon each way. I see the airport is located right next to the city, and the Moorish Quarter (for example) is less than an hour away by public transit.
I'd figure with public transport to/from plus a safe two hour buffer for security, we would still have a solid 4-5 hours in town. Given the opportunity of two separate 4-5 hour excursions, are there any Lisbon "must sees?"
Just completed five nights in Lisbon. The layover sounds possible. Security at the airport was routine, but it did take longer than I would have guessed, even during early hours. The RS Portugal guidebook has pretty good insight on the major things. For me, I enjoyed walking along the river from the train station to the Arch of Triumph. Then walking up the Rua Augusta. Cafe Brasileira, A Ginjinha, are both up there - and while “touristy” to a point, totally worth it. Plus the neighborhood as a whole up there is great - some bookstores, tile places etc. Some really good restaurants - but allow at least two hours to eat at night. We did take the trolley 28E. Picked it up in a less crowded place and got seats so we rode to the end of line. It was worth it, but if timing is off, expect lines and standing room only. We had plenty of time - so went to Belem and along the river there. It’s interesting - but maybe less priority in my opinion on limited time. There are a couple hotels (we went to the Bairro Alto hotel, as walk-ins) with nice rooftop bars with views and a drink - if that’s all you have time for. We did a Fado dinner - great - but reserve in advance and about 2.5 hours with dinner. The Castelo de sao Jorge area was also great. Get tickets in advance and check hours if you go in - the main reason to go in is for the view only. The Cathedral and St. Antonio below the castle are nice as well. Local art and tiles can be found in shops here - not the fake stuff. All of that is most efficiently walked. You might have seen the Time Out Market on the RS episode. It was a busy and crowded spot while we were there - lots of less crowded and nice lunch spots if you desire something quieter. Though it certainly has variety…. I liked Lisbon - any time there you can get is worth it.
If you use Uber or Bolt, rides are plentiful and cheap, can get you about anywhere within 20-30 minutes (less to central Lisbon).
Public transport works OK to get to the limited places it goes, they are expanding the Metro system, so maybe better no, but Uber/Bolt is not much more.
Taxis are also an option, but there have been a number of complaints about overcharging of tourists, at least with your other options you know the cost up front.
As for must sees, wandering the central area by the river is nice. You can go up into the hills, to the Bairro Alto, a castle/fortress on the other side. Going out Belem is always good, with a maritime museum, the monastery, and other sights.
We always stop by the Time Out Market, a big food hall, busy, but you can find some neat things to eat, a drink, snacks, great variety in one spot.
Hi Robert
With 4-5 hours I would have a jump in Sintra on one stop and Lisbon downtown and Belem on the other
If you need more detailed routes PM me.
Warm regards
Pedro
Thank you all for the in depth options!
