See the sights in Lisbon on foot and by cab Portugal: You can can visit many interesting sites in the capital city, even if you have only one day there.

My husband and I will have one day in Lisbon in the spring. Can you suggest an itinerary?

Lisbon is a fine city to walk in, and it has an accessible public transportation system. Cabs are also rather inexpensive, so, to begin, take a cab, for about $3.50, from the Praca do Comercio (Commerce Square) to the Castelo de Sao Jorge (St. George's Castle). The castle, atop a hill, was built by the Moors and retaken by the Portuguese in the 12th century. The site is now primarily a garden with a magnificent view. In the spring, the grounds are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Down the hill in the old Alfama district is the cathedral, or Se. Built in the 12th century, it has been continually remodeled, most notably after the 1755 earthquake. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; telephone [phone].

From the Alfama, take a cab, for about $5, to the Belem (Bethlehem) district of Lisbon, where the Tagus meets the sea, the point from which the great Portuguese explorers set forth.

The Jeronimos Monastery, on the Praca do Imperio, was built by King Manuel I in the 16th century at the height of Portugal's explorations and wealth. Its architectural style emphasizes sea motifs. In the spring, the monastery is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2: 30 p.m. to 5 p.m.; (351-1) 362-0034. In the west wing is the Maritime Museum, with collections of ships. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays; (351-1) 362-0019.

Near the monastery is the Belem Tower, a handsome structure built in the 16th century, which stands at the edge of the Tagus River's north bank. It is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2: 30 p.m. to 5 p.m.; (351-1) 362-0034.

Lisbon admission prices range from about $3.50 to $6. The tourist office in the Praca dos Restauradores can provide information; (351-1) 346-3658. The Portuguese National Tourist Office, 590 Fifth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10036, is open Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; [phone].

Pub Date: 1/05/97