The City of the Seven Hills never fails to inspire with its light, a slow lifestyle, bluesy fado music, and breathtaking viewpoints. Musement takes a look at nine of the latter.
It’s no secret that Lisbon emanates a singular sweet nostalgia that captivates its own as well as strangers. And from above, the Portuguese capital shines even brighter, so we thought we’d round up the best viewpoints in Lisbon so that you can see the Tagus River and the various districts from plenty of different angles. Here are nine of them.
1. Santa Catalina
Night concerts in a lookout? We love it. At Santa Catalina, which can be reached via the Elevador da Bica, not only will you delight in the view, but you will also be able to enjoy the lively evening atmosphere on its terrace where street artists and performers add a bohemian touch. Come to see the sunset and stay for a beer to the beat of guitars and drums next to the statue of the mythological giant Adamastor.
2. Portas do Sol
In homage to one of the seven gates of the old Arab city, the viewpoint of Portas do Solis is one of the best in Lisbon. Situated in the Alfama district, it can be easily reached by tram. From above, you will have the city at your feet, with the Tagus river in the background and the colored houses providing a picture that you will keep in your retina forever. We advise you to go early in the morning for a more Zen experience.
3. Mirador de Gracia
Known in Portuguese as miradouro da Graça, this viewpoint is said to have the best atmosphere. You have to climb quite a steep hill to reach it, although you can also get there by tram. The good news is that a luxury terrace awaits you upstairs where you can savor a snack. Most importantly, from here, you can see almost everything, including São Jorge Castle, the Santa Justa Lift and the Baixa.
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4. São Pedro de Alcântara
Some viewpoints are best visited in the morning, others in the afternoon–São Pedro de Alcántara is best during twilight when the soft golden hour enhances the beauty of the panorama, adding a romantic touch. Surrounded by gardens with sculptures and mosaics, this viewpoint in the Barrio Alto is one of the most popular, as it overlooks the entire center of Lisbon.
5. Senhora do Monte Viewpoint
The chapel of Nosa Senhora do Monte‘s namesake viewpoint can be reached by tram or on foot–be prepared to sweat if you opt for the later. Situated on Mount San Gens in the Graça district, and being one of the highest points in Lisbon you have an impressive panoramic as well as a quiet atmosphere. From here you will be able to observe the old part of the city and São Jorge Castle, among other points of interest. As a curiosity, this enclave is a place of worship for pregnant women, as it is tradition to sit in the famous stone chair of San Gens, next to the chapel, to ask for good luck in maternity.
6. Castle of São Jorge Castle
If you decide to pass by São Jorge Castle, then you must not miss the views! From the fortress wall, between canyons, a magnificent view of Lisbon unfolds in front of you. Specifically, the panoramic from the tower of Ulysses complete with Da Vinci periscope offering 360-degree vistas. However, to enter the complex you must pay the entrance fee, which is discounted with the Lisbon Card.
7. National Pantheon
More 360 degree views (also with entrance ticket), this time from the viewpoint of the National Pantheon, located in the Alfama neighborhood. The magic happens beside the marble structure’s spectacular white dome. Indeed, the terrace at the highest point undoubtedly offers one of the best views in Lisbon. You’ll feel tiny in the face of such a panoramic view!
8. Eduardo VII Park Viewpoint
This slightly different viewpoint, located in Eduardo VII Park is marked by a large Portuguese flag. With a green mantle at your feet, the view comprises Avenida da Liberdade, passes through the various monuments of Lisbon and ends in the Tagus River.
9. The arch Rua Augusta
There is no excuse not to visit this place at the entrance of the famous Commerce Square in Lisbon. It is one of the newest miradouros additions to the scene, having been inaugurated in 2013. Apart from being able to see the exhibition arch’s history in the Sala do Relógio, the views from this arch are enjoyable: the square, the terreiro do Paço, the Tagus, and, on the other sides, Rua Augusta, the Sé of Lisbon, the Baixa Pombalina