
Lisbon is the kind of city that makes you want to slow down. Between the tiled facades, winding cobblestone streets, neighborhood cafés, and miradouros overlooking the Tagus River, there’s something around every corner worth stopping for. While you can see some of Lisbon in 24 hours, you’ll barely scratch the surface. Lisbon deserves a full weekend. Three days give you enough time to experience the city’s highlights without turning your trip into a race from one attraction to the next.
This itinerary is designed to help you plan the perfect weekend in Lisbon. It’s made for first-time visitors, food lovers, design lovers, couples, and slow travelers who want to experience Lisbon beyond simply checking off the major sights. You’ll find iconic landmarks alongside great restaurants, beautiful shops, flea markets, coffee stops, and plenty of time to wander.
And while Sintra is an incredible day trip, I’ve intentionally left it out of the main weekend itinerary; there’s simply too much to see in Lisbon itself. If you have extra time or want to extend your trip, I’ve included a Sintra day trip guide later in this post.
Know Before You Go
A little planning goes a long way in Lisbon. Here are a few things to know before your trip so you can spend less time figuring out the logistics and more time enjoying the city.
- Currency: Portugal uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Lisbon, but I recommend carrying a small amount of cash for flea markets, smaller shops, and the occasional spot that may not accept cards.
- Language: The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in Lisbon, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. You’ll have no trouble getting around without speaking Portuguese, although learning a few simple phrases is always appreciated.
- Credit Cards & Tipping: You can use a credit card at most restaurants, cafes, shops, and attractions. Tipping isn’t generally expected in Portugal, but it’s appreciated for good service. Rounding up your bill or leaving around 5-10% is a nice gesture at restaurants.
- Safety: Lisbon is generally a very safe city and easy to explore on foot. Like any popular European destination, though, pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas. Keep a closer eye on your belongings when riding crowded trams, particularly Tram 28.
- Prepare for the Hills: Lisbon is very hilly, and those charming cobblestone streets can be a workout. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. You’ll also appreciate having a few rideshares throughout your trip. Uber is affordable in Lisbon and can save you from tackling a particularly steep hill.
- Tram 28: The iconic yellow Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable sights, and it’s worth seeing even if you don’t ride it. It can get extremely crowded, though, so don’t feel like you need to build your itinerary around it. This itinerary doesn’t rely on riding Tram 28, giving you more flexibility and saving you from waiting in a long line.
- Make Restaurant Reservations: Lisbon’s best restaurants can book up quickly, especially during the busy spring and summer months. Make reservations ahead of time whenever possible, particularly for dinner and smaller restaurants with limited seating. A few of the restaurants included in this itinerary are tiny and popular, so don’t wait until the day of to try to snag a table.
Best Time to Visit Lisbon
Lisbon is a year-round destination thanks to its mild climate, but spring and fall are the best times to visit. The weather is comfortable enough for long days of exploring, outdoor dining is in full swing, and you can enjoy the city with fewer summer crowds. That said, each season has something to offer depending on what kind of trip you’re looking for.
Spring (March-May)
Average temperatures: 60-75°F
Spring is one of the best times to visit Lisbon. The weather is comfortable for walking the city’s famously hilly streets, flowers are blooming, and restaurants start spilling onto their outdoor terraces. It’s also an excellent shoulder season, offering a nice balance of good weather and fewer crowds than you’ll find in the summer.
Best for: Comfortable sightseeing, outdoor dining, and avoiding peak-season crowds.
Summer (June-August)
Average temperatures: 75-90°F
Summer brings Lisbon to life with festivals, long sunny evenings, and plenty of time to enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces. It’s also the busiest, and often hottest, time to visit. If you’re traveling during the summer, plan to make restaurant reservations and book popular attractions well in advance.
Best for: Festivals, nightlife, long days, and making the most of Lisbon’s outdoor dining scene.
Fall (September-November)
Average temperatures: 65-80°F
Fall is another fantastic time to visit Lisbon. Temperatures remain warm, the ocean is still inviting in early fall, and the summer crowds begin to thin out. The softer golden light makes the city’s tiled buildings and viewpoints especially beautiful, and it’s an ideal season for lingering over rooftop drinks.
Best for: Fewer crowds, warm weather, golden-hour views, and rooftop cocktails.
Winter (December-February)
Average temperatures: 50-60°F
Winter in Lisbon is mild compared to much of Europe, making it a great option if you want to experience the city without the crowds. It’s a great season for exploring Lisbon’s museums, cozy wine bars, cafes, and festive Christmas markets. You may encounter some rain, but you’ll also find better prices and a much quieter version of the city.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, museums, cozy cafes, and Christmas markets.
If you need a comprehensive packing list for all your travel needs, I’ve got you covered! I created the ultimate packing list for your upcoming adventures, including carry-on essentials, toiletries, clothing, and location-specific items.

How Many Days Do You Need in Lisbon?
If you’re planning a weekend in Lisbon, three full days are the sweet spot for a first visit. It gives you enough time to see the city’s highlights, explore a few different neighborhoods, eat really well, and still leave room to wander without feeling like you’re constantly checking the clock.
2 Days in Lisbon
Doable, but rushed. Two days is enough to see the major sights and get a taste of Lisbon, but you’ll need to be selective. With limited time, you’ll likely spend more of your trip moving from one attraction to the next and less time enjoying the slower pace that makes Lisbon so special.
3 Days in Lisbon
The ideal length for a first visit. Three days gives you enough time to explore Belém, Alfama, Chiado, Baixa, and some of Lisbon’s best viewpoints, while still leaving plenty of room for long lunches, coffee stops, shopping, and sunset drinks. This itinerary is designed around three full days in the city.
4-5 Days in Lisbon
Perfect if you want to explore beyond the city. With a few extra days, you can take a day trip to Sintra to explore its fairytale palaces and gardens, or head to Cascais for a change of scenery and some time along the coast. You could also simply stay in Lisbon and enjoy a slower pace, because there’s certainly enough here to fill another couple of days.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Choosing where to stay in Lisbon can make a big difference, especially when you’re visiting for a short weekend. Lisbon is a very walkable city, but its hills can make staying in the right neighborhood even more valuable. For a first trip, I’d focus on staying somewhere central so you can easily walk to restaurants, shops, viewpoints, and major sights.
Chiado – Best Overall
Chiado is my top pick for a first visit to Lisbon. It’s central, beautiful, and perfectly positioned between several of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. You’ll have easy access to restaurants, cafes, shopping, and nightlife, while still being within walking distance of Baixa and Bairro Alto. If you want a convenient home base that feels distinctly Lisbon, Chiado’s hard to beat.
Baixa – Most Central
If convenience is your priority, Baixa is a great choice. This is Lisbon’s historic downtown, putting you close to many of the city’s major attractions and making it easy to get around on foot or by public transportation. It’s a particularly good option if you want to maximize your sightseeing time on a short trip.
Bairro Alto & Príncipe Real – Boutique Hotels & Shopping
For a slightly more stylish, residential feel, consider Bairro Alto or Príncipe Real. These neighborhoods are known for beautiful boutique hotels, design-forward shops, restaurants, and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great fit for travelers who care as much about where they’re staying as what they’re seeing.
Alfama – Historic Atmosphere
If you want to wake up surrounded by Lisbon’s history, Alfama is the place to be. This is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, filled with winding streets, tiled buildings, and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Tagus. Just keep in mind that the hills and cobblestones can be challenging with luggage, so the historic atmosphere comes with a little extra walking.
How to Get Around Lisbon
Lisbon is a relatively easy city to get around, and for a weekend trip, you probably won’t need to rent a car. In fact, a combination of walking and Uber is the easiest way to explore Lisbon. You’ll get to experience the city’s neighborhoods on foot while having an easy option when the hills (or your feet) have had enough.
Walking – The Best Way to Explore
Walking is hands-down the best way to experience Lisbon. Some of the city’s best moments happen between the major attractions: wandering through tiled streets, popping into a tiny shop, stopping for coffee, or stumbling upon a viewpoint you didn’t plan to visit. Just remember that Lisbon is very hilly, and the cobblestone streets can be slippery, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Uber – Affordable & Convenient
Uber is surprisingly inexpensive in Lisbon and is one of the easiest ways to get around when you’re short on time. It’s especially useful for tackling Lisbon’s steeper hills or reaching attractions a bit farther from the city center, like the Museu Nacional do Azulejo. We used Uber several times during our trip and found it to be an easy way to save our legs without spending much.
Metro – Great for the Airport
Lisbon’s metro system is clean, affordable, and easy to use, making it a great option for getting between the airport and the city center. Depending on where you’re staying, the metro can get you close to your hotel without the cost of a rideshare.
Historic Trams – Beautiful, But Crowded
Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams are part of the city’s charm and definitely worth seeing, but don’t feel like you have to ride one. Popular routes, particularly Tram 28, can get incredibly crowded. If you want the experience, go early and keep an eye on your belongings. Otherwise, walking or taking an Uber is often easier and more comfortable.
Getting To & From the Airport
Lisbon Airport is conveniently located just a short distance from the city center. Plan on roughly 20-30 minutes to get between the airport and central Lisbon, depending on traffic and your mode of transportation. The metro is the most budget-friendly option, while Uber is an easy choice if you have luggage or are arriving after a long travel day.
Ready to see more of Europe? Check out all my detailed Europe blog posts to begin planning your next adventure.

The Perfect Weekend in Lisbon Itinerary
This three-day weekend in Lisbon itinerary is designed to give you a taste of the city’s biggest highlights without packing every minute of your trip. Lisbon is best experienced slowly, so each day combines a few must-see sights with plenty of time for coffee, long lunches, shopping, and stopping whenever you find a view you like.
You’ll notice that I haven’t included a day trip to Sintra in this itinerary. Three days is just enough time to experience Lisbon itself, and I would rather give the city the time it deserves than rush through it to squeeze in another destination. If you have four or five days, you can find my suggested Sintra day trip later in this guide.
Day 1: Markets, Miradouros & Lisbon’s Food Scene
The first day of your weekend in Lisbon starts in the heart of the city, exploring Chiado and Baixa before making your way toward some of Lisbon’s best views and restaurants. You’ll venture farther east to one of Lisbon’s best flea markets, and finish the day with a cozy dinner and elegant nightcaps.
Morning
- Coffee at The Folks Chiado: Start your morning with coffee and breakfast. This is the kind of slow breakfast that sets the tone for the day: good coffee, something delicious to eat, and no reason to rush out the door.
- Wander Through Chiado & Baixa: From Chiado, make your way downhill toward Baixa, taking your time as you wander through some of central Lisbon’s prettiest streets. Along the way, you’ll pass the Elevador de Santa Justa, one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks. The intricate iron elevator is beautiful from street level, but unless riding it is high on your list, I’d skip the wait and save your time and your money for Lisbon’s many better viewpoints.
- Campo de Santa Clara Market (Feira da Ladra): Next, if you’re visiting Lisbon on a Tuesday or Saturday, head to Campo de Santa Clara, home to Lisbon’s famous flea market, Feira da Ladra. The market is chaotic in the best possible way, with stalls selling everything from vintage tiles and old photographs to artwork, ceramics, linens, clothing, and other treasures. Give yourself time to browse; you never know what you’ll find. The market is about a 20-25 minute walk from central Lisbon, but I recommend taking an Uber. They’re affordable, and you’ll want to save your legs for the rest of the day.
- Campo Sta. Clara Cerâmicas: After the flea market, stop at Campo Sta. Clara Cerâmicas, a small shop specializing in traditional Portuguese ceramics.
- National Pantheon: Just nearby is the National Pantheon, an enormous white-domed building that is impossible to miss. The interior is beautiful, but the real reason I’d recommend going inside is the rooftop.
Afternoon
- Explore Alfama: From the National Pantheon, make your way to Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and arguably most atmospheric neighborhood. The best way to experience Alfama is to wander without too much of a plan. Follow the winding streets, admire the tiled buildings, peek down little alleyways, and let yourself get a little lost.
- Portas do Sol & Santa Luzia: From there, head to two of Lisbon’s most beautiful viewpoints: Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia. They’re only steps apart, so there’s no reason to choose one over the other. Portas do Sol offers classic postcard views, while Santa Luzia feels a little more intimate.
- Sé de Lisboa: Continue to Sé de Lisboa, Lisbon’s cathedral and one of the city’s oldest buildings. The cathedral’s heavy Romanesque architecture contrasts sharply with the colorful tiled streets surrounding it, making it a worthwhile stop as you explore Alfama.
- Lunch at Bifanas do Afonso: Make your way back toward Baixa to get your first taste of the famous bifanas. These classic Portuguese sandwiches are made with thin slices of pork that are marinated and simmered in a sauce of white wine, garlic, and paprika. This low-key takeout spot is a perfect place to grab a sandwich on the go.
- Shop in Bairro Alto: Spend the rest of your afternoon wandering through Bairro Alto, one of Lisbon’s liveliest neighborhoods. This is a great place to look for souvenirs that feel a little more special than the typical tourist trinket. Keep an eye out for design-forward shops like Embaixada, Solar Antiques, and Loja Real, where you can find everything from vintage pieces to Portuguese design and quirky gifts.
Evening
- Dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores: One of those tiny Lisbon restaurants that’s easy to walk right past, but absolutely worth seeking out. Taberna da Rua das Flores serves traditional Portuguese dishes with a thoughtful, modern touch in a cozy, intimate setting. The menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh, so come ready to share a few things rather than ordering one big entrée.
- Nightcap at Palácio Chiado: Finish your first night in Lisbon with a drink at Palácio Chiado, a gorgeous 19th-century palace turned dining and nightlife space. The interior alone makes it worth a stop. Order a drink and take in the chandeliers and ornate details as you toast to a very good weekend in Lisbon.
Day 2: Tiles, Alfama & Lisbon’s Best Views
For the second day of your weekend in Lisbon, slow things down and explore Alfama. This is the day to wander without much of a plan, duck into beautiful tiled buildings, and stop whenever you find a view worth lingering over.
Morning
- Rue Augusta: Walk Rua Augusta early in the morning, before the crowds really get going. This pedestrian street runs through the heart of Baixa toward Praça do Comércio and is one of those places that can feel completely different depending on the time of day. Early morning is also when the light is at its best, making it a particularly beautiful time to photograph the tiled buildings and iconic yellow architecture without a sea of people in the background.
- Breakfast at Volta Coffee: Start your morning at Volta Coffee with excellent coffee and a relaxed breakfast before heading out to explore. It’s the kind of neighborhood cafe that makes you want to linger for a while, so don’t feel like you need to rush through your morning coffee just to get sightseeing.
- Museu Nacional do Azulejo: Housed in a former convent, the museum is one of Lisbon’s most unique cultural stops and a great introduction to the Portuguese tradition of azulejos. The intricate blue-and-white tiles are beautiful enough to make the museum feel like an art installation in itself. The museum is slightly outside central Lisbon, so it’s a good place to take an Uber rather than spend your morning walking there.
Afternoon
- Lunch at Antù Alfama: For a relaxed lunch in the heart of Alfama, Antù is a great place to slow down for a while. The terrace is tucked into the neighborhood and makes for a beautiful setting after a morning of wandering the winding streets. The menu puts a modern spin on Portuguese flavors, with plenty of options to share alongside a glass of wine. It feels special without being overly formal, making it an easy fit into a day spent exploring Alfama.
- The afternoon is intentionally left open. Wander through Alfama, do a little shopping, stop for another coffee, or simply find a pretty terrace and enjoy the fact that you don’t have anywhere else you need to be.
Weekend in Lisbon Tip: This is one of the most important parts of the itinerary: don’t be afraid to leave space. Lisbon is a city where some of the best moments happen when you aren’t following a schedule.
Evening
- Dinner at Prado: On your second evening, head to Prado for dinner. This is one of the meals I’d prioritize making a reservation for before your trip. Prado focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and puts a modern spin on Portuguese cooking. It’s a great choice for a special dinner that still feels connected to the food and ingredients of Portugal.
Day 3: Belém, River Views & Bairro Alto
The final day of your weekend in Lisbon takes you west along the Tagus River to Belém, where some of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks meet the city’s modern, creative side. It’s a full day, but it leaves plenty of room to wander and enjoy Lisbon along the way, and it ends with an unforgettable meal.
Morning
- Breakfast at Miolo: Start your morning at a cute breakfast spot in Belém. Take an Uber rather than walking; it’s not the most convenient location to reach on foot, but the short ride is worth it for a good breakfast in a more local-feeling setting.
- Belém Tower: After breakfast, make your way along the Tagus River to Belém Tower, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The 16th-century fortress sits right on the water and is particularly beautiful from the outside, so don’t feel like you need to spend hours touring the interior. Walk around the tower, take in the river views, and enjoy your final morning in Lisbon.
- Pastéis de Belém: From the tower, head to Pastéis de Belém for one of Lisbon’s most famous treats: the pastel de nata. This bakery has been making its custard tarts since 1837, and many people will tell you these are the original, and still the best, pastéis de nata in Lisbon. Yes, it will probably be crowded. Yes, there will probably be a line. But don’t let that deter you. The line moves quickly, and stopping here for a warm, flaky pastel dusted with cinnamon is one of those touristy experiences that is genuinely worth doing.
- MAAT: Continue along the waterfront to MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology). Even if you don’t have time for a full museum visit, the building itself is worth seeing. Its striking curved architecture creates a beautiful contrast against the Tagus River.
Afternoon
- Lunch at Time Out Market: For an easy lunch with plenty of options, head to Time Out Market at Mercado da Ribeira. It’s definitely touristy, but it’s also genuinely fun, especially if everyone in your group wants something different. You’ll find some of Lisbon’s best-known chefs and restaurants represented under one roof, making it an easy way to sample a few different Portuguese dishes without committing to a long sit-down meal.
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara: Once you’ve made your way back toward the city center, head to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for one of Lisbon’s best panoramic views. From here, you can see across the city toward São Jorge Castle and the historic neighborhoods stretching toward the river. It’s a particularly good spot to pause before heading into Bairro Alto for the evening.
- Sunset Drinks at Lumi Rooftop: End the afternoon by slowing down at Lumi Rooftop at The Lumiares Hotel. The rooftop is especially beautiful around golden hour, with views across Lisbon’s rooftops that make the perfect backdrop for a pre-dinner drink. During the high season, make a reservation for about 30 minutes before sunset so you have time to settle in and enjoy the changing light.
Evening
- Dinner at A Nossa Casa: For your final dinner in Lisbon, make a reservation at A Nossa Casa. After three days of exploring, this is the perfect time for one more long Portuguese meal before your trip ends. This was one of our favorite meals of the entire trip. The cozy vibe invites you in, the service is top-notch, and the food is ridiculously fantastic.
If you’ve followed this itinerary at anything close to its intended pace, you’ll probably leave Lisbon with a little more appreciation for the art of slowing down, and a list of reasons to come back.
Have More Time? Take a Day Trip to Sintra
If you have more than a weekend in Lisbon, Sintra is one of the easiest and most worthwhile day trips to add to your itinerary. Just about 40 minutes by train from Lisbon, the town feels worlds away from the city, with misty forests, elaborate palaces, hilltop castles, and winding garden paths.
- Fairytale Palaces: Sintra is best known for its colorful, romantic palaces, most famously Pena Palace. Built in the 19th century, Pena combines Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and other architectural influences in a way that feels almost fantastical. Nearby, Quinta da Regaleira adds another layer of mystery with its gardens, underground tunnels, and famous initiation wells.
- Lush Forests & Gardens: The palaces are only part of what makes Sintra special. The Serra de Sintra is covered in lush forests and elaborate gardens, with winding paths, exotic plants, hidden corners, ponds, and unexpected views. The combination of architecture and overgrown landscape gives Sintra its almost dreamlike quality and makes exploring between the major sights as enjoyable as visiting the palaces themselves.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site: Sintra isn’t simply a collection of beautiful palaces. The entire Cultural Landscape of Sintra was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995, recognizing the unique combination of historic architecture, gardens, forests, and centuries of cultural history. It’s one of the rare places where the landscape itself is such an important part of the experience.
- Easy to Reach from Lisbon: One of the best things about Sintra is how easy it is to get there. Trains run from Lisbon’s Rossio Station, with the journey taking about 40 minutes, making it a straightforward day trip without needing to rent a car. Once you arrive, you’ll need to navigate between the town and the palaces, but the short train ride makes Sintra an easy addition if you have four or more days in Lisbon.
Suggested One Day Sintra Itinerary
Sintra is easy to visit as a day trip from Lisbon, but don’t make the mistake of trying to see every palace in one day. There’s more than enough here to fill an entire day, so I’d focus on three standout stops: Pena Palace, Castelo dos Mouros, and Quinta da Regaleira. Start early, book your timed entry in advance, and give yourself enough time to actually enjoy each place rather than racing between them.
Morning: Pena Palace & Castelo dos Mouros
- Start at Pena Palace. Make this your first stop and book one of the earliest entry times you can get. Perched high in the Serra de Sintra, Pena is the colorful, over-the-top palace you probably picture when you think of Sintra, and seeing it in person is even better. Give yourself time to explore both the palace and the surrounding park rather than simply stopping for a few photos.
- From Pena, head to Castelo dos Mouros, the dramatic medieval fortress spread along the mountain ridges. The castle itself is mostly ruins, but that’s part of the appeal. Walk along the ancient stone walls for some of the best panoramic views in Sintra, with Pena Palace, the surrounding forest, and the landscape stretching out below you.
Afternoon: Lunch & Quinta da Regaleira
- After a busy morning, head back toward Sintra’s historic center for lunch. This is a good time to slow down, grab a Portuguese lunch, and rest your feet before your final stop.
- Then spend the afternoon at Quinta da Regaleira, which was my favorite stop of the day. Unlike Pena’s grand palace, Regaleira is all about exploring: lush gardens, hidden paths, grottoes, tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well. The estate’s mysterious symbolism and elaborate gardens make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world, and there’s something new to discover around every corner.
Evening: Return to Lisbon
- By late afternoon, you’ll probably be ready to head back to Lisbon. Take the train back and keep your evening easy; you’ve earned it. If you still have the energy, make reservations for a relaxed dinner or grab a drink at one of your favorite Lisbon wine bars and toast to a very full day.
A note on pacing: This is a full day. Sintra’s hills, cobblestones, and sprawling gardens mean you’ll be doing plenty of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and don’t try to squeeze in one more palace just because it’s nearby. The goal is to leave feeling like you experienced Sintra, not like you completed a checklist.
Sintra Booking Tips
- Book Pena Palace first thing in the morning. This is Sintra’s most popular stop, and starting early gives you the best chance to explore before the crowds build.
- Purchase tickets ahead of time. Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and many other attractions use timed entry, so don’t wait until you arrive to buy tickets. I’d book your entry in advance and build the rest of your day around that time.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Sintra is beautiful, but it is not flat. Between steep paths, cobblestones, stone staircases, and the sprawling palace grounds, you’ll want comfortable shoes with good traction.
- Expect crowds. Even with an early start, Sintra is a popular day trip from Lisbon. Expect to share the experience with plenty of other visitors, especially at Pena Palace. The quieter paths and gardens at Quinta da Regaleira offer a nice change of pace later in the day.
Final Thoughts
A weekend in Lisbon is enough to fall in love with the city, but you’ll probably leave wanting more. Lisbon is a city that rewards you for slowing down. Yes, there are landmarks to see and neighborhoods to explore, but some of my favorite moments came from the in-between: lingering over a coffee, stopping for a glass of wine with a view, wandering down a tiled street without a plan, or finding a little shop I would have otherwise walked right past. Three days gives you enough time to experience the best of Lisbon without rushing through it, and I hope this itinerary helps you do exactly that. Come for the beautiful views and iconic sights, but leave a little room to simply wander; you’ll likely find that those are the moments you remember most.



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