If you’re planning on visiting Portugal’s capital, you won’t be short of things to see and do. From cute cobbled streets and awesome ancient ruins to lively bars and breathtaking panoramas, Lisbon has something for everyone.
During your visit, you’re sure to want to see Lisbon from the best vantage points. So, here are five incredible spots where you’ll enjoy stunning views.
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1. Miradouro da Graça
It’s more than worth climbing the steep streets of Alfama to get to the Miradouro da Graça, which is situated on the hill of Santo André. Indeed, you’ll love exploring the cafés and shops selling traditional crafts in Alfama, which is one of the oldest areas in Lisbon.
Once you reach the Miradouro da Graça, you’ll be greeted with one of the best views of Lisbon. From the cobbled stones and leafy pine shade of the square, you can view old Lisbon neighborhoods like Mouraria, spot numerous churches and monuments, marvel at the 25th April Bridge, and feel at peace looking over the Tagus river.
Dominating the view to your left is the incredible Castelo de São Jorge; the foundations of which date back to the first century B.C. If you’re already feeling like you want to travel to Portugal, check out some of the best and most affordable packages currently available.
2. Miradouro das Portas do Sol
There are several miradouros in Lisbon that provide stunning views of the city. The Miradouro das Portas do Sol provides incredible views over the Alfama district, nearby monuments, and the Tagus river.
Furthermore, the bar at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a great place to relax in the daytime. And it’s also a lively place during weekend nights. You’ll often find crowds of people dancing around the statue of São Vicente de Fora, who is the patron saint of Lisbon, as a live DJ pumps up the volume.
The award-winning Portuguese architect Aires Mateus designed the building that contains the terrace bar.
3. Elevador de Santa Justa
The Elevador de Santa Justa is one of Lisbon’s most iconic attractions. As you travel upwards in the elevator, you will see an incredible panorama of the most famous sites in Lisbon.
Towering above the streets of Baixa, from the Elevador de Santa Justa, you can get a glimpse of Lisbon’s old quarters and attractions like Castelo de São Jorge.
At the top, further amazing views await from the viewing terrace at Largo do Carmo. You’ll be able to see the Rossio Square, as well as sites of interest like the arches of the Ruinas do Carmo.
There are a few other elevators in hilly Lisbon, but the Elevador de Santa Justa provides the best views.
4. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
If you want the best place in Lisbon to watch the sun go down, head to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, which is close to Rossio Square. From the double-tiered miradouro, you can view the beautifully landscaped garden beneath the upper balcony and gaze upon the various streets and sites of Lisbon.
Also, the São Pedro de Alcântara miradouro is usually bustling with buskers and artists, so it can be a fun place to hang out at any time of the day.
5. The Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View
Not every city can be viewed from a 360-degree perspective, but Lisbon can. For the best view of Lisbon from above, head to the top of the Amoreiras shopping center. The 360-degree view of the city is unparalleled.
Furthermore, informative leaflets are available that give you details about the historical landmarks of Lisbon that can be seen. And to help you see the landmarks and city in closer detail, you can use the long-range focus monoculars that are free to use.