Being built on seven hills, Lisbon offers so many awesome views of the city from different perspectives. Every quarter has its own impressive scenery that will simply take your breath away.
I actually didn’t know about the hilly Lisbon until I was there. While it was quite a challenge to wander around winding hills, I love reveling in gorgeous views no matter how much my feet hurt in the process. There’s something magical about being able to see the world before your eyes.
Here are some great miradouros (which means ‘viewpoints’ in Portuguese) to feast your eyes on.
#1 Torre de Belem
This fortress served as the defense of the city for years. It’s a historic landmark that showcases the wonderful view of the Targus River.
Admission Fee: €6.00; Included with the Lisboa Card
#2 Arco da Rua Augusta
This is one of my favorite viewpoints in Lisbon as the terrace on the top offers 360-degree view of the city. From here you’ll see the Santa Justa Lift, Sao Jorge Castle, Comercio Square and the suspension bridge 25 Abril. It can be accessed through an elevator.
Admission Fee: €2.50; Included with the Lisboa Card
#3 Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
We accidentally saw this one while we were admiring the Elevador da Gloria funicular. It’s a beautiful viewpoint built around a garden or a park. You can see Sao Jorge Castle right on the opposite side, along with the terracotta roof tiles spread across the skyline.
Admission Fee: Free
#4 Elevador de Santa Justa
This lift is said to be the only remaining vertical lift in the city and has been a popular landmark and attraction since 1900. It was built by Gustave Eiffel’s apprentice which explains its similarities with the Eiffel Tower.
After the ride in the elevator, the topmost can be reached through a spiral staircase. As there’s a limit to the number of people that can be on top, waiting in line can take a while and the stay is controlled. The terrace also offers a 360-degree view of the city.
Admission Fee: €2.80; Included with the Lisboa Card
#5 Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Located within the Alfama district, you’ll find a lovely view of the harbor from here. There are cozy cafes right at the place to order food or drinks so it’s a great spot for people watching while relaxing. Tram 28 stops nearby.
Admission Fee: Free
#6 Miradouro da Graca
This is a great place to spend the afternoon or the evening overlooking the city. It’s nice to be here just before sunset and wait until the lights illuminate the dark night. There are cafes and shops nearby for a lovely dinner after.
Admission Fee: Free
#7 Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Sunrise or sunset, you can enjoy both ends of the day from this lookout. The views are stunning from end to end and it’s my favorite in this list. Port Do Soul band was performing the day we were there. They were absolutely a crowd favorite and it’s not hard to see why.
Great view and great music, what a lovely way to end the day.
Admission Fee: Free
Thankfully in Lisbon, the trams conveniently go up and down the sloped hills so it’s easy to get around. Check out the Lisboa Card which offers unlimited free travel within the city.
What’s your favorite viewing spot?
