TAP Air Portugal’s Stopover program lets trans‑Atlantic travelers stay in Lisbon or Porto for up to five nights at no extra airfare when traveling onward to more than 65 destinations across Europe and Africa. The offer effectively gives you two destinations for the price of one, with additional perks such as exclusive hotel rates, free and discounted city experiences, a navigation app, and a complimentary bottle of wine at participating restaurants.
If you have a few days to spend in Lisbon, here are practical tips to help you make the most of your stopover.
- Skip the long taxi lines at Lisbon Airport and save time by ordering an Uber or other ride‑share on arrival.
- Keep your camera ready. Lisbon offers countless viewpoints — São Pedro de Alcântara and Nossa Senhora do Monte are two outstanding spots for panoramic photos and memorable vistas.
- Plan museum visits for Sunday mornings when many Lisbon museums waive admission fees. Street art is abundant throughout the city and can be enjoyed any day.
- Treat yourself to a luxury stay or visit one of the city’s five‑star hotels, such as Hotel Bairro Alto, International Design Hotel, Hotel Turim or Altis Belém Hotel.
- Pack sunglasses. Lisbon enjoys more sunny days per year than most European capitals, and rooftop terraces like Park and Topo are ideal for cocktails and city views.
- Savor Portuguese specialties: pastéis de bacalhau (cod cakes), grilled sardines and empadão (savory pies). Time Out Market Lisboa is a great place to sample a range of dishes, and Michelin‑starred chef José Avillez appears both in TAP’s Taste The Stars program and at his restaurant Bairro do Avillez.
- Explore the “City of Seven Hills” on foot to discover narrow streets, hidden viewpoints and local life. For organized options, consider a guided walking tour from providers such as Lisbon Walkers.
- To reach São Jorge Castle quickly and avoid crowded trams, catch tram 12 (from Praça da Figueira) rather than the more touristy tram 28.
- Try alternative sightseeing transport. Classic car tours and vintage Beetle or Fiat excursions are available from operators like La Locomotiva Tours, Lisbon by Beetle and Holy Moly Tours. If you prefer self‑guided mobility, electric scooters can be rented at spots such as Velocité Café.
- For more suggestions and details about the Stopover program, consult TAP Air Portugal’s official Stopover information.
With a short stop in Lisbon you can experience a mix of historic sites, lively neighborhoods, excellent food and beautiful views — all easily explored in a long weekend. Use local tips to save time and money, pick a few must‑see sights, and leave room to wander: some of the city’s best moments come from spontaneous discoveries on cobbled streets.