Lisbon Miradouros: Guide to the Best Views in Town

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If you visit Lisbon, you must check out some of its charming miradouros, the lovely viewpoints overlooking the city’s rooftops. Here is a guide to the best views in the Portuguese capital.

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What are the first things that come to your mind when thinking about Lisbon? Probably sunny days, pastéis de nata, the historical tram 28, and most likely hills and views from the top. Am I right? Lisbon’s miradouros will conquer anyone who visits the city, with stunning views over colorful houses, the Tejo river usually somewhere in the background, and a glimpse of Ponte 25 de Abril and Cristo Rei on the other side of the river, all ideally soaked in the golden light of sunset.

These views are among my most cherished memories, those I will always carry with me from my two years spent in Lisbon. Of course, there’s the food and the people I met, and a lot of other things that made my stay unforgettable. Yet, these are the sights that made me fall in love with the city and have a special place in my heart.

Lisbon is filled with miradouros. You will find them in the most unexpected and underrated places. Sometimes you get just little glimpses of the city from a stairway climbing up between the houses. Other times you’ll find an open space allowing you to enjoy a view of the whole city at your feet. Each of these places is special in its way, each has its little sparkle. Or maybe it’s just my romantic side that finds beauty in every little angle of this planet.

Corny side apart here is a little guide to Lisbon’s miradouros. It’s in no particular order as there’s no way I could order them by preference.

1. Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Let’s get some of the most popular ones out of the way. Not that Portas do Sol is not beautiful, it absolutely is one of the best views. But you will most likely find it filled with tourists at any hour of the day and any time of the year. You will find this miradouro in the historical neighborhood of Lisbon, Alfama, not far from the castle. Portas do Sol is a big square surrounded by colorful houses and filled with bars and restaurants. The historical tram 28 passes by here and it’s one of the most well-known places in Lisbon so expect big crowds.

2. Miradouro da Santa Luzia

Just a couple of minutes walk down from Portas do Sol you will find another well-known viewpoint. The lovely garden with roses and the typical azulejos together with the street artists that often come here, gives this place a romantic atmosphere. You will often hear music from the occasional street performer and again, especially on a sunny day, you will find a lot of people.

3. Miradouro do Chão do Loureiro

This is a terrace not far from Lisbon’s castle. One might easily miss it since the access is quite hidden, right next to the restaurant Zambeze. The view from here spreads over the red rooftops of the city, all the way to the river. In the distance you can see the bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril), the statue of Christ on the other side of the river, and a few iconic sights of Lisbon’s old town: Mosteiro do Carmo, the magnificent church of São Vicente de Fora and the National Pantheon.

4. Miradouro do Castelo de São Jorge

This miradouro is part of Lisbon’s castle so you need to enter the castle’s gardens to visit, which comes with an entrance fee. If you are just looking for great viewpoints this might not be your first choice but you can combine it with a visit to an important national monument and you can learn more about Lisbon’s history.

The castle dates back to the 11th century when it was built strictly for military purposes due to its strategic position on the top of the hill. Find more about the castle and when to visit on the official website.

5. Miradouro da Graça

Graça is one of the most typical neighborhoods in Lisbon, near the historical one of Alfama. Located on a hill, the area is filled with scenic spots that offer amazing views even from the most underrated stairway hidden among the houses.

This miradouro is located next to the church and the garden of the same name, in the heart of Graça. Here you will also find one of the typical kiosk cafés where you can have an “imperial” (small beer) or a coffee while enjoying the view.

6. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Another famous viewpoint in Graça is located in the churchyard of “Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte”. This is the highest point in the neighborhood that has, among other things, a great view of the castle.

Come here at sunset, have a drink at the local kiosk, and relax while watching the sun sink in the river, behind Ponte 25 de Abril. As the night falls, watch the city lighting up at your feet. Sunsets in Lisbon are among my favorites in the world, especially from a viewpoint like this one.

7. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

You can find this lovely miradouro near Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s nightlife neighborhood, in the gardens of São Pedro de Alcântara. It is a recurring theme by the way: miradouros, gardens, and often also churches, all in one spot, bearing the same name.

You can get a great view of Lisbon’s rooftops and colorful buildings and then go out for a few drinks and explore the narrow streets filled with bars and restaurants. During holidays and special occasions, you will also find small markets with food, drinks, souvenirs, and music.

8. Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastor)

A few streets away from Bairro Alto find one of the miradouros with the best vibes in Lisbon (in my humble opinion). While the view might not be the most stunning, the atmosphere is just great. There is often live music from some street artists, a lot of people enjoying the sun, especially around sunset, and generally really positive vibes. Also, it’s super central so it’s quite easy to have a stop for a drink and chill.

9. Miradouro do Monte Agudo

Now, this is one is more of an insider tip. Very few tourists make it to this miradouro since it’s outside the touristic area. The neighborhood is quite a residential one, close to Anjos metro station. You will need to walk up quite a lot to reach it so prepare.

Around here you will mostly find locals having a drink and enjoying the view, people walking their dogs, and only the occasional travelers. Also, make sure to visit during the day as at night the access to the miradouro is closed.

10. Parque Eduardo VII

In the more modern area of Lisbon, on top of Marques de Pombal Square, Parque Eduardo VII offers a lovely view of Lisbon. From here, the river is just a little blue line on the horizon. This is also quite a well-known spot and although it might not offer the picturesque sights of the old town, it’s worth a visit. Make sure to go for a walk in the surrounding gardens. During winter holidays the area hosts the Wonderland Lisboa, the biggest Christmas market in town with plenty of activities and lots of food.

11. Miradouro do Jardim do Torel

Not far from Avenida da Liberdade, one of the main avenues crossing the city center, you can find a quaint garden with a lovely view of Lisbon’s rooftops. It’s a much less busy spot than other viewpoints so you can relax in the shadow of the trees, maybe have a coffee at the nearby kiosk, and simply enjoy the view.

12. Miradouro Panorâmico de Monsanto

This is one of my favorites. Maybe because it’s abandoned and forgotten by the world and yet somehow it holds a certain beauty that only mistreated things hold. The place used to be an exclusive restaurant built in the 1960s and after decades of being left in misuse, it became a viewpoint. Now it’s covered in graffiti and holds the mysterious feel of a ghost town. From the top floor, you can see the whole city of Lisbon, the river and 25 de Abril Bridge.

The reason why it’s not much visited might be due to its location, not easily reachable. Bus 711 from Marquês de Pombal takes you close but you will still need to walk 10 to 15 minutes in the forest to reach it.

13. Miradouro da Rocha Conde de Óbidos

This little miradouro is a bit further from the city center, offering a view of the port and the bridge. The beauty of the industrial view right in front is debatable but the garden is pretty and well-curated. It’s especially nice if you’re visiting in late spring when the Jacarandas are in bloom.

Right next to it, you will find the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga which also has a beautiful garden with statues and benches and a lovely view of the river, even better than the miradouro. While there is a fee for visiting the museum, access to the café and garden is free. And you’re guaranteed to find almost no tourists.

14. Miradouro de Cristo Rei

The statue of Christ the King, or Cristo Rei, might not be as magnificent as the original Cristo Redentor in Rio de Janeiro, but it does make quite an impression. It is impossible not to notice it from almost any point in Lisbon. Apart from climbing up the statue and visiting the Sanctuary itself, you also get to experience probably the best view of Lisbon and an up-close of Ponte 25 de Abril (incredibly similar to the Golden Gate, though definitely smaller).

Make sure to choose a sunny day to be able to enjoy a clear view. Also, keep in mind it tends to get quite windy up there.

15. Miradouro Boca do Vento

On the same side of the river as the Cristo Rei, in what is called by locals Margem Sul, you can escape from the crowds of tourists and enjoy some peace. As you get off the boat in Cacilhas, walk along the river to the right. You will pass some cute (and pricey) restaurants exploiting the view and finally reach a small and peaceful garden, Jardim Boca do Vento. Already from here, you can just lay on the grass and look across the river at colorful Lisbon, the only sound the constant vibration of the cars crossing the bridge in the background.

For a view from a higher point, check out Miradouro Boca do Vento. There is an elevator that will take you up, open daily from 8 am to 12 am.

16. Miradouro P7

This is not my first recommendation when it comes to views but if you’re looking to get a really up-close look at Ponte 25 de Abril, this is the place. Also known as Pilar 7, it’s an interactive experience complete with modern multimedia devices allowing you to view the bridge while learning more about its construction history.

There is an entrance fee to the miradouro and opening hours can vary depending on the season so make sure to check those in advance on Lisbon’s tourism website.

17. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

If you visited or are planning to visit Lisbon, you probably already heard about Belém, or at least pastéis de Belém. The custard tarts take their name from this area not far from Lisbon center, popular due to the Jerónimos Monastery. Off-topic: try the pastéis de nata from the Manteigaria in Lisbon. I personally prefer them to the ones of Belém but there’s a huge debate about it.

While this whole area is quite flat, there is still an opportunity to enjoy a view from the top, from the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, on the riverside. The monument is dedicated to the Portuguese explorations and to important figures of this era, which appear on either side of the construction. Entry tickets for the view are 6€ for adults and they include the exhibition and documentary film on the construction of the monument. Check all the details on the website.

18. MAAT

This is the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (or MAAT) in Belém. Along the river Tejo, you will come across this modern construction that allows you to enjoy a view of the river and the neighbors of Belém and Ajuda in the distance. The most prominent building you can see is Ajuda National Palace, a huge white building on top of the hill. It might not be a natural viewpoint but it’s worth a stop on your tour of Belém.

19. Elevador de Santa Justa

As if Lisbon didn’t have enough hills and natural viewpoints, a few streets from the central square of Dom Pedro IV you can also find a man-built one. The Elevador de Santa Justa is quite a touristic attraction, located in the flat area of the city and easier to access than climbing the many hills.

It’s quite impossible to miss this iron structure towering the rooftops of Baixa, in the shopping area. The entry fee is not cheap for Lisbon standards (6€ for a return ticket) but you can also use your 24-hour transportation ticket to use the elevator and just pay the 1,50€ entrance fee for the view.

Insider Tip: You can go up to Mosteiro do Carmo and walk behind it to the platform leading to the elevator and enjoy the view for free! You’re welcome.

20. Arco da Rua Augusta

I had to include this place in this list of Lisbon miradouros. The triumphal arch of Augusta Arch is the iconic building at the end of the lively shopping street Rua Augusta. On top of the massive construction, the three statues representing Glory rewarding Valor and Genius, overlook the famous Praça do Comércio and the Tagus River.

The entrance fee of 3€ pays off the view from the top of the arch. On one side you can see Praça do Comércio, the river, and the bridge in the background. On the other side, you can admire the colorful buildings, the castle, and the busy shopping street right below. I recommend going up close to sunset to enjoy an ever more magical view.

More than just miradouros

Aqueduto das Águas Livres

The Águas Livres Aqueduct is a historic aqueduct built in the 18th century as a solution for the lack of drinking water in the city. The construction is 65 meters in height and its main section is 14 km long, although the whole system was 58 km long when completed.

The arches in the Alcântara Valley are the most scenic part of the construction. There are 35 arches in total, including the largest stone arch of this type in the world at 65.29 m high and 28.86 m wide. Nowadays the aqueduct can be visited as part of the Water Museum. You can walk on it and enjoy a great view of Lisbon from the top.

Topo Chiado

If you’re looking for a bar with a nice view of Lisbon’s rooftops, this is it. Topo Chiado is hidden behind Convento do Carmo so make sure not to miss it. Just make your way behind the Convent’s ruins taking the small alley on the right side as you’re facing the entrance. You will need to go down the stairs and you will find an open space with seats and music, with a view of both the ruins of the Convent and the Elevador de Santa Justa. This is truly a nice place to enjoy a good drink with a great view, especially on warm summer nights.

Park Bar

Another bar that offers a great view of the city is right on top of a parking lot, hence the name Park Bar. The highlight is watching the illuminated bridge as you’re sipping on your favorite cocktail, in a hip atmosphere on this candlelit rooftop bar where everything is made of wood and covered in plants.

The place might not be very easy to find. You need to enter the parking lot from Calçada do Combro and take the elevator up to the last floor, then walk some more up the ramp. Just follow the music and the good vibes.

Rossio Station

Are you arriving by train or planning to take a train to go somewhere else? The central train station of Rossio offers quite the view of the Baixa and the nearby neighborhood of Graça, with Castelo de São Jorge towering on the opposite hill. If you’re entering the station from the main entrance near Praça Dom Pedro IV, you will need to make your way upstairs and exit to the left, on the opposite side of the platforms. Here you can get a great view and if you make your way up the stairs you can discover characteristic little streets.

Bica

Not an actual viewpoint but from the top of Elevador da Bica you can get a nice view complete with the typical funicular. It doesn’t get more characteristic than this. If you’re coming from the lower part of the city, take the funicular or work those muscles and walk up. You should get used to that, Lisbon is a city of thousands of hills. It’s actually supposedly seven (like Rome) but feels like more.

Ascensor da Glória

Another funicular way, this time going from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara to Avenida da Liberdade. While the view might not be as scenic as the one in Bica, it’s still worth a visit. Plus, it’s conveniently located in the very heart of Lisbon, among colorful houses and examples of street art.

Museu de Lisboa – Teatro Romano

In Alfama, not far from the cathedral, make your way up to find this museum. On top of the ruins of the Roman theater of the city of Olisipo, from the museum, you can also enjoy a view of the neighborhood and the river. While there is a fee to visit the museum, you can admire the ruins and the view for free.

Keep your eyes wide open

These are the highlights of this beautiful and colorful city but remember to keep your eyes wide open. At almost every corner you will catch a glimpse of a stunning view. The blue of the Tagus River in the background in between the building, the lit-up bridge in the distance, and stairways lined with old street lamps making their way through old houses. The beauty of this city lies in small details. Even after two years of living there, I would still discover new sights even in the most unexpected places.

Getting to and Staying in Lisbon

Here are my suggestions for apps and platforms to use when planning your trip to Lisbon.

• Use Booking.com to find affordable accommodation
• Check out Skyscanner for finding cheap flights from other European destinations and more
• Use Omio to book bus and train rides throughout Portugal
• Check out Flixbus for connections to other European cities, for instance in Spain
• Head to Discover Cars if you want to rent a car and explore Portugal

Lastly, don’t forget about travel medical insurance. I highly recommend checking out SafetyWIng if you travel often. I wrote a dedicated article about it that you can read here. Or simply go and sign up here.

Also, if you are planning a longer trip around Portugal, make sure to check out these other articles I wrote: Weekend trip to Porto, Algarve beaches, and 10 off-the-beaten-track destinations in Portugal.

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