Cheap European City Break: 3 days in Lisbon

Looking for a stylish European city break that won’t drain your wallet? Lisbon offers sunshine, sea breeze charm, and centuries of history - all within a few hours’ flight. At Secret Flight Club, we dig out the kind of exclusive deals that make spontaneous getaways like this easy to book and hard to forget. (Our Deal from last week: Birmingham to Lisbon for £58 Return!)

Here’s your ideal 3-day Lisbon itinerary, packed with culture, flavour, and local gems - perfect for members who want to make the most of their time (and budget).

Why Lisbon?

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most walkable and welcoming capitals. Its colourful buildings, tiled façades, hilltop views, and fresh seafood give it an irresistible, laid-back appeal. Thanks to its affordability and year-round mild climate, it’s a top choice for anyone after a cheap city break with serious style.

Day One: Arrival and Golden Hour

Arrive in Lisbon by early afternoon - flights from London, Manchester, or Bristol often land before 2pm. From the airport, it’s a quick 25-minute journey into the city by metro or taxi.

For a classic introduction to the city, stay in either Alfama or Bairro Alto - two charming neighbourhoods with winding streets, great cafés, and easy access to the city’s main sights.

As the sun starts to dip, walk up to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, one of Lisbon’s most panoramic viewpoints. On the way, treat yourself to a still-warm pastel de nata from Manteigaria - a local favourite.

Dinner tonight is casual but unforgettable. Cervejaria Ramiro is a no-frills Lisbon institution loved for its garlic prawns, clams, and grilled lobster. No bookings - just queue with the locals and soak in the atmosphere.

Day Two: Hidden Streets and Fado Sounds

Start your morning with a ride on the vintage Tram 28 before the crowds set in. This yellow tram winds through some of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods and is a fun (and scenic) way to get your bearings.

Hop off in Alfama and take your time exploring on foot. This neighbourhood is Lisbon at its most authentic - cobbled lanes, terracotta rooftops, and tiled corners everywhere you turn. Pause at Pois Café for a relaxed breakfast or coffee.

In the afternoon, visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo). Set in a former convent, this underrated museum traces the history of Portugal’s iconic blue-and-white tiles from the 15th century to modern-day artistry.

As night falls, reserve a table at Clube de Fado, near the Sé Cathedral. Here, you’ll enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes in a candlelit setting while listening to live Fado music - the soulful sound of Lisbon, born in the very streets you’ve been walking.

Day Three: A Royal Day Trip and Rooftop Wine

After a slow brunch at Dear Breakfast, take the train from Rossio Station to Sintra - a storybook town just 40 minutes away and a must-visit for a day trip.

Once a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, Sintra is home to dramatic palaces, leafy gardens, and misty forested hills. Start at the iconic Palácio da Pena, a colourful hilltop castle blending Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance design. Then head to Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical estate filled with secret tunnels, spiral wells, and hidden symbols.

Wander back into the old town centre and sample the local travesseiros (flaky almond pastries) at the legendary Piriquita bakery. If time allows, finish with a detour to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where cliffs meet the Atlantic in dramatic fashion.

Back in Lisbon, end your trip with a drink at Park Bar - a rooftop lounge cleverly hidden above a multi-storey car park in Bairro Alto. The view across the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Tagus River is the perfect send-off.

Final Thoughts

Lisbon is the kind of place you’ll want to return to. It offers all the charm of a historic capital with the affordability and easy pace that make it ideal for a long weekend escape.

With Secret Flight Club’s flight alerts, our members regularly get return fares for under £70, often with short-notice availability - perfect for those who like to pack a bag and just go.

Want more hidden city break inspiration? Log in to the Members Lounge for this week’s top fares, and don’t forget to check your inbox for our hand-picked flight deals, only available to Secret Flight Club members.