kim-wassermann 
The decision to go to Lisbon was very spontaneous and not at all planned through. I had another trip planned but I had to cancel it because of the politically tense situation. So I checked where it was still warm in November and just bought a cheap flight to Lisbon. And I am so glad it turned out this way! I suggest you a minimum of 5 days for Lisbon. If you only have to you can concentrate that time on the city itself but the beaches and places around it are worth to pay a visit as well.
Day 1 & 2 Explore the city and the many viewpoints
One thing you will remember about Lisbon is the many stairs you must climb at any given time of the day. Wherever you want to go there will be stairs. But they will always reward you with amazing viewpoints. Just take a day to walk around the city and check out as many viewpoints as your legs can carry you. My two favorite viewpoints are the Miradouro da Graça and XXX. The first one I recommend you to come for lunch since they have a small kiosk selling food and drinks for a very reasonable price. The second one I would suggest to go for sunset. There is always someone playing guitar and the kiosk sells cold drinks to enjoy the sunset.
I also recommend you to take a free walking tour to learn something about the history of Lisbon and Portugal and get some recommendations. Mine was organized from the hostel so check out below where I stayed to get the same one. On the tour, we got to try Ginjinha, a typical cherry liquor from Lisbon which is super sweet but also very delicous!
To see the famous cable car going up the hill walk your way to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Here you can get the famous shot.
Day 3 Daytrip to Cascais
After exploring the city for two days it is now time to hit the beach! Cascais is a beautiful small town about one hour from Lisbon easily reachable by public transport. You just hop on the train that leaves every 20 minutes and gets you there for under 3 euros. Stroll through the cute little town, chill at the beach and take a dip into the blue water. Don’t leave before the sunset! From the beach walk along the coastline until you reach the cliffs which give you an amazing view of the sea and the setting sun.
Day 4 Daytrip to Sintra
I love hiking, but even if you don’t, Sintra should be on your Lisbon itinerary. Just a 40-minute train right from Lisbon and the nature is breathtaking! And the whole vibe of the town just gives you inner peace. I looked up some hiking routes before but ended up just going what felt right. It was difficult to find the ones from the internet but you cannot really get lost since the signs show you how to get and back to the city again.
Day 5 Daytrip to Bélem
Bélem is mainly known for the bakery Pastéis de Bélem who make the famous pastry Pastel de Nata since 1837. Once you have stuffed yourself with those delicacies pay a visit to the Torre de Bélem and enjoy the view on the waves. Around there you can get yourself a delicious Pina Colada straight out of a pineapple! Afterwards, head back into the direction of Lisbón and make a stop at the Palacio and the MAAT (Musem of Art, Architecture and Technology). Last stop for this day is LX factory to grab some late lunch, drinks and shop some cute handcrafts from local artist.
Where to stay in Lisbon
Usually, I just recommend hostels but don’t really push to stay there since there are a lot of good alternatives. However in Lisbon this is a MUST stay and by far the best hostel I have ever stayed in: Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel. I cannot stress enough how much I love this place and I would come back to Lisbon just for the hostel. Some of the highlights:
- Located close to Rossio train station
- All-inclusive option with (vegetarian) breakfast, lunch, dinner and open bar for beer and sangria from 6pm to 11pm
- Free of charge pub crawls every night and other organized activities like day trips, surfing lessons or free walking tours
- Great area to socialize and meet people
- The most welcoming and fun staff
