Exploring Lisbon – 10 Places You Need to Visit. Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is a city that captivates with its rich history, stunning architecture, and dynamic culture, with no shortage of breathtaking spots to discover and photograph. From its iconic pastel-colored buildings to its scenic waterfront views, Lisbon offers a vast selection of picture-perfect locations. In this post you will discover 10 places you absolutely must visit in Lisbon (even though there are many more!)
São Jorge Castle
Perched high above Lisbon, São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views of the city’s red-tiled roofs and the shimmering Tagus River, making it a must-visit landmark. Plus, there’s a ton of history here, making it a great spot to explore and snap a few photos.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Lisbon’s Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Its detailed architecture is stunning, and history lovers will find plenty to explore. You’ll want to take your time checking out the stone carvings and learning about the past.
Torre de Belém e Padrão dos Descobrimentos
If you’re in Lisbon, make sure to admire Belém Tower. It’s a small castle-like building on the riverbank, with turrets and balconies that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. It’s not just pretty, though; it played a big role in Portugal’s history as a launching point for explorers. Walk around and take in the views of the Tagus River—you’ll see why it’s one of the city’s top landmarks.
Right next to Belém Tower, you can’t miss the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. This massive monument honors the explorers from Portugal’s Age of Discovery, with larger-than-life statues of figures like Vasco da Gama. It’s a great spot for a history lesson and some stunning photos.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Miradouro das Portas do Sol is one of Lisbon’s most iconic viewpoints. From here, you get a breathtaking panorama of the city’s historic Alfama district, with its winding streets and charming red rooftops. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset or to take in the morning light. There’s even a small café where you can grab a coffee while enjoying the view.Â
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of Lisbon’s busiest and most popular viewpoints, offering a stunning panorama of the Alfama district and the Tagus River. The terrace, decorated with traditional Portuguese azulejos, is a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike, so it tends to get pretty crowded, especially in the afternoons and evenings. If you want to enjoy a more peaceful experience, consider visiting at sunrise when the view is just as breathtaking but with fewer people around. Despite the crowds, it’s a must-visit location for anyone exploring Lisbon’s vibrant streets and history.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is a spacious viewpoint in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto neighborhood, offering a sweeping view of the city, including the iconic São Jorge Castle and the Tagus River. This spot is popular for its lovely setting for a leisurely stroll or a quick break during a day of sightseeing. Due to its central location, it can get quite busy, especially in the late afternoon and early evening when people gather to watch the sunset over the city. Despite the crowds, it’s a fantastic place to capture the beauty of Lisbon from above.
Terreiro do Paço
Terreiro do Paço, also known as Praça do Comércio, is one of Lisbon’s grandest squares, located right along the Tagus River. Once a royal palace, this vast, open plaza is now surrounded by stunning yellow arcaded buildings and a massive triumphal arch leading into the city. It’s a bustling spot where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the riverside views or simply admire the impressive architecture. Given its central location, Terreiro do Paço is often buzzing with activity, from street performers to public events. It’s a must-see landmark that embodies the lively spirit of Lisbon.
Parque das Nações
Parque das Nações is Lisbon’s modern district, designed for Expo ’98 and now a hub for contemporary architecture, cultural venues, and recreational spaces. It’s a sharp contrast to the city’s historic areas, with futuristic buildings, wide boulevards, and plenty of public art installations. This waterfront area is home to the iconic Vasco da Gama Tower, the massive Oceanário de Lisboa (one of the world’s largest aquariums), and a cable car that offers stunning views along the Tagus River. Parque das Nações is ideal for leisurely walks, with lots of green spaces and waterfront promenades to explore. If you want to experience Lisbon’s contemporary side, this is the place to be.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is one of Lisbon’s top art museums, featuring a diverse collection of artworks from ancient times to modern day. The museum is split into two sections: the Founder’s Collection, with masterpieces from artists like Rembrandt and Monet, and the Modern Collection, which focuses on contemporary Portuguese art. Set within lush gardens, the Gulbenkian is a tranquil spot to explore art, take a leisurely walk, or attend a concert in the outdoor amphitheater. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and anyone seeking a quieter corner of Lisbon.
Sé de Lisboa
Sé de Lisboa, or Lisbon Cathedral, is the city’s oldest church and a landmark in the Alfama district. With its Romanesque towers and striking rose window, it stands out as a symbol of Lisbon’s history. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and has survived multiple earthquakes, showcasing a mix of architectural styles like Gothic and Baroque. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Lisbon’s history and architecture.
I hope this article helped you to plan your Lisbon itinerary! Leave your opinion in the comments about the guide for Exploring Lisbon – 10 Places You Need to Visit, and follow me on social networks so you don’t miss my next trips. Use #travelplannerholic to get noticed.
With Love,
Catarina Vieira
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