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3 Days in Lisbon: A Lisbon Itinerary For First Timers

Lisbon is a city that blends old-world charm with modern energy. With its stunning architecture, delicious food, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder Portugal’s capital is becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations. It’s now become one of my favorite places to travel to, which is why I’m so excited to share exactly how to spend 3 days in Lisbon. It’s THE perfect Lisbon itinerary for first timers!

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alt txt = " Yellow Funicular, colorful hilltop houses and colorful orange, and red castles". — The Ultimate 3 Days in Lisbon Travel Guide Pinterest Pin

3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary

In this 3-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Lisbon and beyond. From fairytale castles in Sintra to the golden beaches of Cascais, from iconic landmarks to charming medieval villages, this guide will help you make the most of your long weekend getaway in Portugal’s capital.

Get ready for a trip filled with adventure, history, and of course – amazing food!

Day 1: Sintra & Cascais – Fairytale Castles & Coastal Beauty

Pena Palace
Pena Palace
Inside Pena Palace

Morning:

Start your first day in Lisbon by heading to the beautiful Pena National Palace. I booked this tour which starts out very early so make sure to rest well the night before for a full day ahead. This was one of my favorite parts of the trip. I truly enjoyed exploring this colorful hilltop palace!

alt txt = "African American woman wearing a black and white coat standing in front of a multicolored castle". — Yours truly at Pena Palace

If you’re not able to book a tour and you’d prefer to drive, hop in your car (or train) and drive to Quinta da Regaleira. Here, you’ll be able to wander through the mystical gardens, underground tunnels and check out the famous initiation well. The tour I mentioned also includes Quinta da Regaleira if you’d prefer to see it all at once instead of driving.

alt txt = "Large concrete building under blue sky." — Quinta da Regaleira

If you are hungry, be sure to make a pit stop at Casa Piriquita to try one of their delicious pastries! It’s a local and tourist favorite (and now a favorite of mine). I tried their almond cake (ladybugs) and their cheese pudding which is sprinkled with cinnamon in the video below.

alt txt = "Yellow brick front building with black lettering". — Piriquita

alt txt = "Desserts and pastries in a shop window". — Piriquita

3 Days in Lisbon Continued

Afternoon:

Continue westward until you hit the westernmost point of mainland Europe, Cabo Da Roca. The cliffside views here are unmatched and it’s the perfect place for a picnic with a view.

alt txt = "Stone monument with a cross at the top with writing written on the stone". — Cabo Da Roca

If you are able to pull yourself away from the breathtaking view, hop back in your rental car and drive South until you reach Cascais. This relaxed seaside town is a perfect place for a leisurely walk along the Cascais to Estoril promenade. There are many seaside cafes, restaurants and bars along the walk. I stopped for lunch at Aqafarina. I was served fresh bread with my pasta Amatriciana (pasta with red onion, guanciale, fresh tomato, and black pepper).

alt txt = "Blue and white sign on a pink building with people walking by". — Aqafarina

alt txt = "Fresh bread with herbs and garlic". — Aqafarina

alt txt = "Multi-flag in front of museum building". — Cascais

alt txt = "Green statue atop stone in middle of town square". — Cascais

Here’s an awesome tour you can go on if you’re not interested in driving.

Evening:

The day isn’t over yet, return to Lisbon for a night of shopping, street art, and delicious food. LX Factory is home to over 50 stores and restaurants so there’s surely something for everyone!

alt txt = "Large sign for street with different restaurants". — LX Factory

alt txt = "Street art mural". — LX Factory

I personally loved the appetizers I sampled at Dragon Inn pictured below. So good!

alt txt = "Fried tofu with cucumbers and tomatoes". — Fried Tofu

alt txt = "Dumplings with various fillings". — Fried Tofu

Or, if you are craving some authentic Portuguese dishes, you could check out O Marques instead for dinner. It’s quite the hidden gem! I tried their grilled cod with boiled potatoes in hot oil.

alt txt = "Green building with brown sign".

alt txt = "Grilled cod with boiled potatoes".

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Day 2: Lisbon Highlights – Historic Neighborhoods & Iconic Landmarks

Morning:

Hopefully you were able to get a good night’s sleep last night, because day 2 is equally as exciting. Start your morning by discovering one of the most popular stops in all of Lisbon, the Jerónimos Monastery!

alt txt = "White concrete building under blue sky".

alt txt = "White concrete building under blue sky and bright sun".

Just down the road, you’ll find the equally famous, Belém Tower. This 500-year old tower once protected Lisbon’s harbor and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once inside, you’ll be able to take the steep spiral staircase to the rooftop for 360 views of the river and city.

alt txt = "Large monument tower on a body of water". — Belém Tower

It’s recommended to purchase your tickets for both in advance. You can easily do so here!

After your morning of exploring, stop to get a quick breakfast at Pastéis de Belém, a short distance from the tower. I enjoyed this stop as well, in fact it was so delicious I went back and waited on the line for more! I tried their traditional Portuguese custard tart and Chamuças (meat pastry). If you’re a foodie like me, definitely take this tour to sample more goodies.

Lisbon in 3 Days

Afternoon:

You can’t visit Lisbon without taking a ride on a funicular! There are three to choose from, Elevador do Lavra, Elevador da Glória, and Elevador da Bica. All three were designed by the same engineer and cost the same.

alt txt = "Inside funicular with steering wheel".

Although each funicular serves the purpose of helping locals and tourists climb steep slopes that connect two towns, the Elevador da Glória is the most popular and leads to the best viewpoint.

Then, wander through Lisbon’s oldest district Alfama. I took a tuk tuk tour reminiscent of the tuk tuk’s I traveled in when I visited Thailand. This tour covers many different neighborhoods which is perfect when on a time crunch. Keep in mind, this ride will be bumpy, but it’s all a part of the attraction.

alt txt = "View of red roof buildings under sunrise".

After the tour, check out São Vicente de Fora, a beautiful historic monastery!

alt txt = "Brown door surrounded by white marble".

alt txt = "Marble sculpture outside church".

alt txt = "Monuments and statues and bench seats in church".

Evening:

If you aren’t quite ready for dinner yet, or have some extra time to spare, you can do some window shopping in downtown Lisbon. Baixa and Chiado are some of the most vibrant neighborhoods. After a busy day of sightseeing and walking, I was pretty tired so I ordered room service for my dinner that night.

alt txt = "Tall monument under gray sky".

alt txt = "Tall elevator with purple statue of a girl".

alt txt = "Green fountain atop tiled road".

Day 3: Day Trip to Fátima, Nazaré & Óbidos – Culture & Coastal Wonders

Morning:

I’m sure by now, you’ve completely fallen in love with all Lisbon has to offer. BUT, the fun is not over yet. Day 3 starts with a bit of a road trip! Drive North until you reach Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. It’s a major pilgrimage site known for its religious significance. You can also book this tour which will cover all three locations if you’re not interested in driving.

alt txt = "Concrete building under grey skies". — Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima

alt txt = "Stained church glass window atop shrine". — Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima

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Afternoon:

After visiting the sanctuary, continue on your road trip until reaching Nazaré. It’s a charming surf town known for its record-breaking waves and beautiful beaches. It was very overcast the day I went but I still enjoyed it.

Day 3 in Lisbon Continued

alt txt = "White and orange house on top of cliffs". — Nazaré

alt txt = "Cliffs on top of water". — Nazaré

After watching the surfers for a bit, head out to the cobblestone streets to find a cute restaurant of your choosing. I ate lunch at a restaurant called Sitiado pictured below.

alt txt = "Green sign on top of cobblestone road". — Sitiado Restaurant

alt txt = "Shrimp inside black pot with French fries in white bowl". — Sitiado Restaurant

On your way back to your hotel in Lisbon, you should make one more stop in Óbidos. It’s one of my favorite villages in all of Portugal as it feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Spend an hour or two taking in this charming medieval village by window shopping, sampling goodies (more on this in a little bit), and admiring the Óbidos Castle.

Lisbon Itinerary

alt txt = "White castle under grey skies". — Óbidos

alt txt = "Castle structure with red ribbon". — Óbidos

Since I went in Winter during the tail end of the Christmas season, I was able to experience the Christmas market and see the village lit in Christmas lights. Speaking of which, remember the goodies I mentioned earlier? I couldn’t help but try their cherry wine served in a dark chocolate cup, churros, and hot chocolate. I would highly recommend you also do the same.

alt txt = "Black woman with blue nails holding cherry wine in a chocolate cup". — Cherry Wine in a Dark Chocolate Cup

alt txt = "Fried dough dessert covered in sugar". — Cherry Wine in a Dark Chocolate Cup

Evening:

Head back to Lisbon for Dinner at McDonald’s. Yep, you read that right…McDonald’s! For a fun local twist, try the unique Portuguese menu items. FYI: I also tried the McDonalds in Italy too lol. I actually find this fun and a way to sample items you won’t find back home. It definitely tasted a lot less greasy with better ingredients. I tried their chicken nuggets and fries (I know, I know basic) but it still hit the spot. Give it a shot!

alt txt = "Touchscreen kiosk with Portuguese writing." — McDonald’s Menu in Portuguese

alt txt = "Menu items on touchscreen kiosk". — McDonald’s Menu in Portuguese

Afterwards, head back to your hotel to relax and reflect on your amazing 3-day Portugal adventure!

Bonus: Day 4 in Lisbon

So I know this is a 3 day guide, but I did spend an extra day. If you have additional time, here’s what I’d recommend doing: Make sure to visit Lisbon Cathedral, take a boat tour on the Tagus River, and book a photoshoot for memories.

alt txt = "Inside brown concrete building". — Lisbon Cathedral

alt txt = "Inside brown concrete building with illuminating light". — Lisbon Cathedral

The boat tour and photoshoot were truly an unforgettable experience and many of you know by now it’s something I ALWAYS do.

alt txt = "African American woman with long black hair wearing a grey black and white striped two piece outfit and black tights". — Yours truly photoshoot ready!

Lisbon FAQ’s for First Timers

Where should I stay for 3 days in Lisbon?

For this particular itinerary, I recommend grabbing a hotel right near downtown Lisbon. This way, you’ll be central for each day’s adventures! The Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods offer easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Lisbon?

In my opinion, there’s no bad time to visit Lisbon. The experts will say the best time to visit Lisbon is Spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower than in peak Summer. However, Summer is great for beaches and festivals but can be hot and crowded.

But, my personal favorite is Winter as it offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a budget-friendly option.

How Do I Get Around Lisbon?

Since this 3-day Lisbon itinerary includes day trips, it would probably be best if you rented a car.

However, if you don’t feel comfortable driving in a different country, Lisbon also has an efficient public transportation system. This includes trams, buses, and the metro.

The Viva Viagem card offers unlimited daily travel at an affordable price, making it the most convenient option for tourists. Then, you could join group tours for the day trips which is what I did in addition to Uber which was affordable. Viator and GetYourGuide are my favorite websites to use when booking day trips.

What Language is Spoken in Lisbon, and Will I Need to Know Portuguese?

Lisbon’s official language is Portuguese, but don’t worry, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops.

From my experience, most locals, particularly younger people and those in hospitality, are fluent in English and happy to help. That said, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases like obrigado/a (thank you) and bom dia (good morning) is always appreciated!

What Should I Wear When Visiting Churches or Religious Sites?

There’s no strict dress code, but it’s best to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Jerónimos Monastery or Lisbon Cathedral. Covering your shoulders and knees is recommended, especially in more traditional places. If you’re visiting during the hot summer months, bringing a light scarf or shawl to throw over your shoulders is a good idea.

Is Lisbon Safe for Tourists?

Yes! Lisbon is known for being a safe and welcoming city for visitors. I felt very safe as a solo female traveler during my stay.

That said, like in any popular tourist destination, pickpocketing can be an issue in busy areas like Tram 28, Praça do Comércio, and crowded attractions. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid carrying valuables in easy-to-reach pockets, and be aware of common scams.

At night, Lisbon is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to stick to well-lit streets and be mindful of your surroundings.

3 Days in Lisbon Recap

I hope you found this detailed Lisbon itinerary extremely helpful in planning your next dream vacation. I’m confident that you will fall in love with this city as much as I did!

If you’ve already visited Lisbon, is there anything else you would add to this 3 day itinerary? I’d love to hear it in the comments below!

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Final Thoughts

Lisbon is not only a beautiful destination, but extremely safe as well. I can’t wait for my return trip! Would you travel to Lisbon? Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Planning ahead and looking to visit the Christmas markets in New York? Check this out. Interested in taking a much needed day trip from Raleigh, North Carolina? Read this. Need outfit suggestions for your next road trip? Read this. Looking for the safest and most beautiful destinations for a solo trip? Check this out.

Need help on renting a car in California? Check this out. Into enlightenment, galleries, yummy food and more? Travel to Sedona to experience it all. Visiting Arizona and you’d like to check out the Grand Canyon? Read this. Are you a musician or a fan of music in general? Check out my MIM museum blog post. Interested in learning all about the Wrigley Mansion? Take a gander here. Looking to experience a little solitude outside of the city? Read this blog post to escape NYC.

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Final Thoughts Continued

Have a sweet tooth and looking for tasty treat ideas? Check this out. Are you a wine drinker or you’d like to experience a wine tour? Read this. Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris and Amsterdam.

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Photo Credit

Thank you to Lukas Bato for the photo of the Belém Tower, 777 S for the photo on Quinta da Regaleira and Benjamin Pazdernik for the photo of Alfama. I discovered their work from Unsplash.com. Please check them out!

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This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.

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Paris 3 Day Travel Itinerary

Traveling to Paris and looking for information on the best restaurants, desserts, and sight seeing? Look no further, this blog post has it all!

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.

Paris was the second city I visited as part of my European tour with London as the first stop. Read more about my London trip here. Since I was already in London, I booked a trip on the Eurostar to take a beautiful scenic train ride to Paris which left from the London St. Pancras station and arrived in Paris Gare du Nord. The train ride took about 2 ½ hours and the price can range anywhere between €50.00+ Euros. Book your trip on the Eurostar here.

Paris Day 1

Highlights

Restaurant Indien Paris 19-Bombay Curry

Morning

We arrived in Paris early so after settling into our Airbnb, my sister and I took to exploring the beautiful Paris neighborhood by way of the Paris Metro (train) and on foot. Learn more and purchase your tickets for the Paris Metro here and read more about my other travels overseas using the public transit system here.

Afternoon

My first day in Paris got off to a rough start due to a miscalculation. When exiting off my stop there were ticketing officers asking for the train ticket you purchased. My sister and I didn’t know we were supposed to hold onto the tickets so we threw them away. We were fined I believe €40 Euros which had to be paid immediately. Learn from my mistake, and hold onto your tickets indefinitely!

Evening

Paris weather can be a toss up, and the day we arrived it rained heavily on and off. Needless to say we got stuck in it. We were going to the Catacombs of Paris which after all that traveling and rigmarole was closed! There wasn’t enough time to revisit so if you go, let me know how it is. For dinner, I ate a very delicious Indian meal at Restaurant Indien Paris 19-Bombay Curry. My sister and I were so hungry photos were not taken, but I highly recommend it.

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Paris Day 2

Highlights

HolyBelly, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Gossellin, Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor, Quay of the Tuileries, Tuileries Garden, Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie

Morning

After catching up on rest, I woke up refreshed and ready to dominate the city. Breakfast started off at the very delicious Holybelly. There was a line out the door, but trust me it’s worth the wait. I opted for the eggs, bacon, french bread, and pancakes. The vibe of this restaurant felt very “Parisian”.

Holybelly breakfast — Breakfast at Holybelly

Next stop on the list, the Eiffel Tower! If you follow me on Facebook, I mention how my sister and I walked the 600+ steps to the top instead of taking the elevator. Keep in mind the Eiffel Tower has a 2^nd Floor, and a summit floor. Travel tip: You’re allowed to walk up to the 2^nd Floor and it’s also cheaper at nearly €11 Euros. Read more about it here.

Afternoon

You know by now that I love museums, so the first one I visited was the Musée d’Orsay. The artwork in the museum is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a must see if you’re in Paris. After exploring the museum, what good would I be if I didn’t sample all of the deliciousness Paris has to offer? Dessert at the Gosselin was next and where I fell in love with eclairs and chocolate croissants.

After a quick bite we began exploring again on foot to see the Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor a footbridge over the River Seine. Passerelle links the Musée d’Orsay and Tuileries Garden. The Quay of the Tuileries is such a scenic walk with beautiful views of the water. You’ll see many people walking, running, and taking photos. Travel tip: The Tuileries Garden is a great way to explore France for free. You can think of it as Paris’s version of Central Park. I was in complete awe of the beautiful greenery and statues throughout the garden.

Evening

The Airbnb I stayed in had a very good bakery nearby named Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie (this place was recommended by our host). I did as the locals do and purchased a Paris baguette as well as an assortment of baked goods for dinner.

Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie desserts — Baked goods at Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie

Paris Day 3

Highlights

Palais-Royal, Louvre Museum, Place Clemenceau, Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, Arc de Triomphe, Forum Des Halles, L’as Du Fallafel, L’Equateur

Morning

The third day in Paris was even more jammed packed than the second day as we tried to make up for lost time on day 1. I wanted to make sure I had the opportunity to experience all of the landmarks. After a brief photo shoot where I had the opportunity to model my Paris outfit, the first stop on the list was Palais-Royal and the famous Louvre Museum.

The Louvre Museum while extraordinary, was extremely packed (and with good reason). If you’re planning a trip try to get there early. Be forewarned it’s almost impossible to get an up close picture of the Mona Lisa, however it’s an experience seeing it in person. It’s worth mentioning the other impressive artwork collection the museum holds.

Afternoon

After the museum, I walked through the Place Clemenceau, and Champs-Élysées which runs through to the Arc de Triomphe. If you love shopping, restaurants, bars, cafés, theater etc. the Champs-Élysées is the place to be. Want to see a well known monument? The Grand Palais is dedicated to French art and is within walking distance.

Speaking of monuments, a visit to Paris would be incomplete without a trip to the iconic Arc de Triomphe. You can climb the Arc de Triomphe to the top, however my sister and I opted to stay at the ground level. The Arc de Triomphe honors the soldiers who fought for France.

Arc de Tromphe in Paris — Arc de Triomphe

The Forum Des Halles is a shopping mall in the center of Paris with PLENTY to do. Seriously, you could easily spend a day here if you love shopping so I suggest you plan ahead. There’s a store for every budget, and plenty of restaurants.

Evening

Next up, L’as Du Fallafel. I love Lenny Kravitz, so when I found out he loved fallafel and recommended this place, it was a must that I go and check it out. The fallafels were served hot, very filling, and delicious! You won’t be disappointed if you eat here.

L'AS Du Fallafel in Paris — L’as Du Fallafel

Speaking of restaurants, one of my favorites during this trip was L’Equateur. If you love Senegalese, Cameroonian, and Caribbean fare; or are interested in expanding your cultural horizons this is THE place to go.

Do your research and translation beforehand as the menu is in French. The waiters are also willing to help if you have any questions. I had the grilled chicken, rice, and plantain; the chef seasoned the chicken was so well! I honestly can’t wait to go back when I revisit.

Dinner at L'Equateur a restaurant in Paris — Dinner at L’Equateur

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Final Thoughts

Well, that concludes my Paris 3 Day Travel Itinerary. I hope I piqued your interest and shared helpful tips. To book some of the activities discussed in this post, or to plan your own, check this out.

As always, thank you so much for reading. Would you travel to Paris? Learn anything new, or have any feedback? Was this itinerary helpful? Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me.

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Blog Disclaimer

I am not the artist, nor do I take any of the credit of any of the beautiful artwork or sculptures displayed from the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in this blog post.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.

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Paris 3 day travel itinerary Pinterest pin

Three Amazing Days in London

Traveling to the city of London and strapped for time? This travel itinerary will give you some great ideas on must sees, eats, and fun! I will also share with you the best time to visit this iconic city. Get ready, this itinerary is jammed pack, so feel free to pick and choose the activities that interest you the most.

If you follow me on social media, I mentioned traveling to London for the first time 23 years ago. I’ve been multiple times since then, and I honestly can’t get enough. It’s a city I like to call my second home. When traveling to London, keep in mind London weather can be a toss up; it can be rainy, cold, snowy, etc. I lucked out when I traveled in May as the weather was beautiful and hot.

London Day 1

What to See

The day we arrived, my sister and I got right into it. We went to the Imperial War Museum (we both love museums). The IWM is a somber experience, however it’s a great museum to visit especially if you’re into history. Another great museum to visit would be the British Museum which is one of the largest museums documenting human culture. After the museum, we did some exploring on foot. I took some photos near the iconic red phone booth, and explored Piccadilly Circus (in the heart of London) a junction of 5 busy streets, Soho, and Chinatown in Westminster (Central London).

Imperial War Museum in London with canons in front — Imperial War Museum

Black woman in London posing in front of the red telephone booth — Imperial War Museum

What to Eat in London

After all of that walking, I was ready for some much needed noms. When in London, it’s a must you check out Poppies. My sister and I went specifically for their Fish and Chips, and it did not disappoint!

Fish and chips dinner in London at Poppies restaurant — Poppies Fish and Chips (Fries)

How to Explore on a Budget in London

I’m used to commuting as a New Yorker which has been a long tradition of mine, so while visiting other countries if possible, I try to utilize their transit system. While traveling around London, my sister and I took the bus and train like true Londeners thanks to Sadiq Khan who helped make London transportation more accessible. The Underground tube (train) and bus are very easy to navigate. I would suggest getting an Oyster card as it’s very easy to refill without having to worry about buying tickets.

London Day 2

What to Eat

To start the day off right, I just had to have a true English breakfast at Regency Cafe. Fun fact: My parents lived in England prior to moving to the US, and would cook this for my sisters and I sometimes for breakfast. While exploring, I went to Borough Market which is one of the oldest food markets in London. If you’re looking for open events this is a great option. Everything I had was so delicious; SERIOUSLY yummy baked goods (breads, donuts), and all kinds of different cheeses (I was in Carb heaven).

Scrambled eggs, sausage, beans, and ham breakfast in London — English Breakfast at Regency Cafe

What to Do

First stop on the list, was Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guards ceremony. This ceremony is free of charge and pretty cool to watch if you’re able to. Read more about it here. I would suggest visiting the Tower of London as well to learn more about the royal palace. After the ceremony, I took the city bus to Trafalgar Square which is a landmark, and signifies the British victory against the French and Spanish. Love shopping like me? Then you must check out Harrods which is a very famous luxury department store.

Changing of the Guards Ceremony in London with Guards dressed in red, white, and black uniforms — Changing of the Guards Ceremony

After shopping, London Bridge, and Camden Market were up next. Read more about the London Bridge here. Camden Market is awesome if you’re into rock and roll and all things unconventional. Lined with shops, fashion, graffiti, cafes, bars, and restaurants; it’s a place you should highly consider checking out. To party and chill for the night, we went to Lockside Camden which was probably my favorite nighttime spot in London.

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London Day 3

Sites to Explore on Foot

So the final full day of London was extremely busy just like the two days prior. I actually had a photo shoot with an amazing photographer, and was able to capture some great shots whilst visiting tourist attractions. I was able to see Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, River Thames, Westminster Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben, Southbank Centre, and Jubilee Gardens.

Black woman standing in front of Westminster Abbey — Standing in front of Westminster Abbey

Memorable Eats

I couldn’t help but bring out my bougie side while attending afternoon high tea at the very beautiful and classy Wallace Collection Restaurant. I’ve mentioned to you guys multiple times that I LOVE tea, so tea paired with sandwiches, cakes, and scones?! SIGN ME UP IMMEDIATELY. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, and would highly recommend it.

Scones, sandwiches, cakes, and tea at the Afternoon High Tea Ceremony at the Wallace Collection Restaurant — Afternoon High Tea Goodies

More Ideas

I wanted to see more sites, but didn’t have as much time to continue exploring on foot. Luckily the red double decker hop-on, hop off bus tour exists. Why take it? It’s reasonably priced, and you can get off at any time. If you do decide to take this tour, you must sit at the top! Aim to do this on a very nice day (although you can still enjoy this tour on the lower level too). It’s a great way to see London especially if you’re strapped for time.

Two black sisters exploring London on the Red Double Decker Bus Tour — Red Double Decker Bus Tour w/my big sis in London!

Keep in mind, this list isn’t conclusive as I only scratched the surface. You can always check out the University of London, Royal Parks, or some of the London Boroughs and exhibition spaces to name a few. Well, that concludes my three day itinerary in London. I hope I helped and inspired you to travel there because I had a blast!

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Pinterest pin on three amazing days in London with a red bus and Big Ben in the background — Three Amazing Days in London Pinterest Pin

Final Thoughts

As always, thank you so much for reading. Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. If you’d like to share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. To book some of the tours and activities discussed on this trip, or to plan your own click here. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.

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How to Plan Your Trip to Aruba

A Little Bit About Aruba

Aruba, also known as: “One Happy Island”, is one of the Caribbean islands located in the South Caribbean and belongs to the Netherlands. The official language spoken in Aruba are Dutch, Papiamento, English, and Spanish, however; Dutch and Papiamento are their primary languages and it’s one of the best places you can travel to. Aruba is one of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), and is a relatively small island to explore. The major airport you’ll fly into is the Queen Beatrix International Airport. Now that we know a little more about Aruba, read on for my Aruba itinerary.

An interesting fact about Aruba is that the climate is great to travel to almost any time of the year because it is south of the hurricane belt so no hurricane season. This means perfectly sunny days, gorgeous beaches, turquoise water, with little to no chance of rain. I love to plan ahead so I used this site to help put together my Aruba travel guide. The flight to Aruba itself wasn’t too long clocking in at about 4 hours 45 minutes from NYC. If you’re flying in from the west coast allot for more travel time.

About Aruba Continued…

Things to keep in mind: Aruba is a VERY popular destination. If you can, the best time (and in my opinion the best way) is to try and take your vacation when it isn’t high season. I booked my trip in September which is considered a slower time on the island and the best option for my travel experience. A bonus to going in the off season is a much quieter and peaceful experience. Another bonus is scoring a great deal on both my flight and hotel due to off peak prices.

FYI, Aruba is one of the more expensive islands so prepare well for this. The official currency of the country is the Aruban Florin, but United States (US) currency is widely accepted as well as major credit cards or debit cards on the island of Aruba. In retrospect, it is probably easier to just use U.S. dollars.

Where to Stay in Aruba

There’s a plethora of hotel options to stay at while on the island suitable for anyone’s budget. I stayed at the Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino which is not only a great place, but a great option if you’re looking to be close to the beach. The customer service was impeccable as well as the amenities included and I had a good time.

The room I stayed in had spacious accommodations, a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and stove if you’d like to prepare your own meals; private balcony, pools, a swim up pool bar, and live entertainment. (Check my Pinterest story on Aruba here). Aruba has plenty of all inclusive resorts, and luxury resorts if you’d prefer to stay in one.

The resort also provides beach towels free of charge; simply sign out one with your name and room number (There is a fee if you lose the towel so be careful). The hotel is centrally located; a quick walk from the hotel would take you to the supermarket as well as within walking distance to other major hotels and restaurants nearby.

Transportation in Aruba

The bus stop to get into town was also close by so public transportation was pretty accessible. The bus system was awesome in Aruba, super clean, ran on time, and it runs late. The island has bus maps with schedules to follow which makes it easy and convenient. Plus at $2.60 one way it’s super cheap. Similar to NYC with the Metrocard, the Aruba bus system has their own version; so purchasing and adding money towards your fare is really easy.

The bus is slower though it travels all over the island. If that doesn’t convince you, local taxis are available on the island as well. Taxis can add up, so why not blend in like a local? In my opinion it makes for a more authentic experience and the easiest way you get to really take in the island.

Whichever route you decide definitely plan your time accordingly! Some days I took the bus, but most days I took a taxi out of convenience. There’s also car rentals available. Here’s one of my travel tips: I became friends with one of my taxi drivers, and he actually became my personal taxi for the remainder of the trip which was really helpful.

Public transportation in Aruba — City Bus in Aruba

Where to Eat in Aruba

Breakfast

Those of you who have followed me for awhile know food is my thing! So naturally I couldn’t wait to sample all of the seafood and yummy noms on the island. For breakfast, I mostly ate at the breakfast buffet located at my hotel called Double Down Sports Bar & Grill (they have a daily buffet breakfast for $12.50).

On days I switched things up, I went to breakfast at Diana’s Pancake Place and Dutch Pancake House; both places specialize in Dutch-style pancakes and Poffertjes (silver dollar pancakes). If you’re in the mood for something familiar, there’s a Dunkin Donuts right on the hotel property.

Lunch|Dinner

For lunch and dinner I tried quite a few different places located either on the property, in town, or included with the excursions. Uncle Tony’s Pizza (located on the property) was one as well as The West Deck (absolutely delicious and one of my favs), Red Fish (also very good for fresh seafood), Driftwood (one of the best restaurants), Arashi Beach Shack, Pelican Nest Seafood Grill (part of the excursion and very good), The Old Fisherman, Moomba Beach, and Big Mama’s Grill (San Nicolas).

Pro tip: During my visit, Aruba restaurant week was ongoing which for some places meant 3 course pre-fixe meals for affordable prices downtown Oranjestad. A good idea is to try to research beforehand to see if it’s going on the time you’ll be there.

Hack for Dinner in Aruba

As promised in my social media sneak preview, the hack for Passions on the Beach is a 3 course pre-fixe meal for 2 for $130 including a bottle of wine. Passions did not participate in restaurant week, however in my opinion this deal cannot be beat. When you factor in the ambiance of the restaurant, a beach side view, live entertainment, and a delicious meal, it’s well worth the price. Keep in mind this deal might not be offered all the time so call ahead to verify.

Honorable mention is Zeerovers. Though I didn’t get a chance to dine there, I was told by a local personally that it’s a place you should definitely check out to taste local food during your Aruba vacation. I can say with all honesty I really enjoyed pretty much every restaurant on the island, salute to the chefs!

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West Deck Restaurant in Aruba for dinner with snapper filet — West Deck Restaurant

The Dutch Pancake House in Aruba with Poffertjes breakfast — West Deck Restaurant

Exploring in Aruba

Most people think of Aruba as a honeymoon location, a cruise ships stop, a place for family vacation, or for older people. However, there is a surge of younger people traveling to the island. In fact, I’ve come across people who love Aruba so much they mentioned it was their 4^th or 5^th time going! I know I will definitely return at some point.

This first visit I went with my mom as our annual trip together and we both had a blast. Aruba offers nightlife options as well, so don’t think you can’t go with your girlfriends or guy friends and not have fun. Check out some of the neighboring hotels, casinos, clubs, or lounges and hit the dance floor! I personally enjoyed South Beach Aruba, and the Hard Rock Cafe which has live entertainment.

A great way to learn about Aruba and its history is to attend the Bon Bini Festival which takes place every Tuesday. It’s very reasonably priced and interactive. Plus you can get authentic cuisine courtesy of the locals. Funny story, I was actually pulled up to dance during the festival. My mom who thought she was recording actually wasn’t so I don’t have it on video lol. If you’re looking for a free way to explore the island catch the Aruba streetcar/trolley (you can hop on and off at any time and it’s a nice slow ride).

Things to Do in Aruba

I love all things water and warm weather, so I took the Sunset Cruise & Seaside Dinner offered through Viator. This cruise offers light refreshments, spectacular ocean views, and a bar on board if you plan to opt out of the dinner. Plus pretty much everyone dances on the ship. I also booked the Aruba Island Tour, this tour picks you up directly from the hotel as long as it’s centrally located. The tour makes stops to the Aloe Vera Factory (which has awesome lotions, soaps, and deodorants to purchase), Casibari Rock Formation, Natural Bridge at Arikok National Park, Alto Vista Chapel, the California Lighthouse, and even some of the residences in the neighborhood.

If you love nature and wildlife, try the Half-Day Animal Sanctuary Tour. This tour takes you to the Aruba Ostrich Farm, Donkey Sanctuary, and Philips Animal Garden where you’ll have the opportunity to support the sanctuaries, feed the animals, and learn about the wildlife. Shopping is also abundant in Aruba; check out Paseo Herencia, Palm Beach Plaza Mall, or Renaissance Mall.

Aruba Continued…

If you aren’t much of a shopping person, you can always go kite surfing, go to a full-service spa, horseback riding, swim in an outdoor pool or natural pool, play water sports, go scuba diving in the Caribbean sea to see the marine life, take a jeep tour, visit the butterfly farm, drive through the entire island, go to Stellaris casino at Aruba Marriott Resort (there’s other casino options too), or visit one of the beautiful beaches and just take in the sun since it’s a tropical climate.

The first time I went to Aruba I did not have enough time to visit Flamingo Beach. If you’d like to go, you can either stay at the Renaissance Aruba Resort or purchase a day pass which will take you to Renaissance Island. Although I was not able to do this, I have heard it’s one of the best experiences.

Places to Go in Aruba

Last but definitely not least if you aren’t in a rush, one of the important things I would highly suggest is taking a mini day trip to San Nicolas for the culture and history alone. It’s very easy to get there, it’s about a 45 minute drive. The taxi man I befriended took me there and back.

In addition, San Nicolas also has Baby Beach which is one of the best beaches besides Eagle Beach. What makes Baby Beach special (aside from the breathtaking view), is that the water is so shallow, that you can venture far into the water and still touch the bottom. Of course always exercise caution and be safe. That being said, San Nicolas is worth taking the time out to visit.

Aruba Streetcar Trolley — Streetcar/Trolley

Philips Animal Garden — Streetcar/Trolley

Final Thoughts

Well, that concludes my trip to Aruba. I hope this blog post was helpful and piqued your interest in visiting and has given you peace of mind in planning your next trip. FYI: Aruba is a hot destination, make sure you have a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect and block out the sun!

Thank you guys so much for reading please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. If you’d like to share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.

Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated 🙂

Buy me a coffee

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