Lisbon Viewpoints: Marvelous Miradouros and Rooftop Perches

On our many trips to Lisbon, Portugal, we have challenged ourselves to find the most picturesque panoramas in the city.

We have scouted out the top places to watch epic sunsets and have navigated to perches where we can enjoy a cool drink while gazing out over the city.  

The best views in Lisbon never cease to amaze us. Whether savoring the vista from a hillside park or standing on a platform, we are absolutely enchanted by the scenic Lisbon viewpoints.

 

About Lisbon Viewpoints

Lisbon’s terrain is responsible for its moniker: the City of Seven Hills. With the notable peaks and valleys, comes prime places to get an elevated view.

The Miradouros – or lookout points – can be either green spaces or paved platforms. Both the hillside parks and elegant Lisbon terraces offer dazzling panoramic views of the bright and colorful city.

Additionally, many manmade structures boast rooftop viewing decks. Most require a fee to enter – but some are definitely worth the cost of the ticket.

Visiting one – if not more – of these sensational viewpoints is a must for your Lisbon Itinerary!

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17 Best Viewpoints in Lisbon

From must-see views to hidden gems, we are highlighting the best panoramas in Lisbon. Our list is separated into Miradouros and Rooftops.

In our opinion, these are the most beautiful places in Lisbon – for both taking in the scenic landscape and photos. Later, we share a Lisbon Viewpoint Map to help you locate each spot.

 

Best Miradouros in Lisbon

Miradouros Lisboa – or Lisbon lookout points – can be found all over the city. Frequented by both locals and tourists, these public parks often have benches and sometimes a café.

Best of all, the Miradouros do not require an entry fee. They are one of the great Free Things To Do in Lisbon!

 

#1 Miradouro Graca Lisboa

The Graca Lookout has long ranked as one of our favorite Lisbon panoramic views. Featured on our Free Alfama Self-Guided Walking Tour, it offers an iconic Lisbon, Portugal skyline view.

In addition to shaded benches, there is a small café that serves beverages (but you are welcome to bring your own, too).

Easier than ever to access (there’s a direct tram up the hill), the terrace sits just above the famous St. George Castle. 

With its west-facing position, we rank Miradouro Graca is a top spot for watching the sunset in Lisbon.

Next to the viewpoint is the Graca Church. Well worth taking a moment to look inside – it’s one of the Must-See Churches in Lisbon.

It also offers another vantage point with its own rooftop platform. A ticket is required, but includes a beverage to enjoy while you take in the view!

 

#2 Miradouro das Portas do Sol

On our very first trip to Lisbon, Portas do Sol was the initial Miradouro we visited…and we still feel it’s one of the best!

That said, it’s not a secret. The observation deck swarms with tourists, street vendors and musicians.

What makes it so special – and worth battling for a spot – is the unparalleled vista over atmospheric Alfama.

In addition to houses that are seemingly stacked on top of each other, the scenic view encompasses two fantastic Lisbon landmarks: Sao Vicente de Fora and the National Pantheon.

If you need a refreshment, visit the café near the statue of St. Vincent. In addition to taking in the pretty views of Alfama, it’s a prime spot to watch historic trams clatter down the tracks.

 

#3 Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Another not-so-secret terrace, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, sits right next to Portas do Sol. Although the narrow platform is almost always crowded, we think it’s worth squeezing in to take in the sumptuous view.

From the colonnaded pergola decorated in characteristic blue-and-white azulejos Portuguese tiles, views stretch over the terracotta rooftops of Alfama and across the Tagus River.

The space is enhanced by brilliant bougainvillea and a rooftop cafe. Without a doubt, it is one of the most charming scenic overlooks in Lisbon.

Just be sure to keep a tight hold on your personal belongings in an effort to avoid getting pickpocketed.

 

#4 Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte

Another wonderful lookout is Miradouro Senhora do Monte (or Our Lady of the Hill).

From the astounding elevated vantage point, the scene encapsulates downtown Lisbon, the 25 April Bridge and the Christ Statue on the opposite bank of the river.

Expect both the hike up and the superb views to take your breath away! To get to the Senhora do Monte Lookout without any effort, consider hiring a tuk tuk.

 

#5 Miradouro do Monte Agudo 

It’s definitely a hike to get to this Lisbon Miradouro, but it is worth it if you are keen on ditching the crowds.

Far more popular with local dog walkers than tourists, it’s not always well maintained. However, you won’t be ducking selfie-sticks or an inadvertent extra in a TickTok.

The views from Miradouro Monte Agudo are oriented to the southwest. The panorama perspective includes a clear view of famous landmarks in Lisbon, but the cityscape can be somewhat obscured by trees.

 

#6 Miradouro de Santa Estevao 

While not as high or mighty as other Lisbon lookout points, Miradouro de Santa Estevao is still one of our favorites.

There is no café at the viewpoint – or even any benches – but the terrace in Alfama is a serene and humble spot.

If your idea of the Best Viewpoints Lisbon is a peaceful and quiet place, then head to the Santa Estavao!

 

#7 Miradouro de San Pedro de Alcantara 

Ornate and elegant, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara reigns as one of the best skyline viewpoints of the Lisbon Old Town.

The two-level park in Bairro Alto has an old-fashioned feel to it – and views that leave us swooning.

Facing the east, it provides a postcard view of Alfama, with the St. George Castle in perfect sight. We also feature this lookout on our Free Lisbon Walk.

Although not a place to watch the sun sink into the horizon, the San Pedro de Alcantara Viewing Platform is an ideal place to be at dusk.

The soft light of the setting sun gives the entire scene a warm glow, making this Bairro Alto Miradouro the top spot for a unique sunset view in Lisbon.

 

#8 Miradouro de Santa Catarina 

The sweeping views from Miradouro Santa Catarina take in the Tagus River, Cristo Rei and April 25th Bridge – and it’s an ideal spot for sunset.

The lookout is sometimes referred to as Miradouro do Adamastor for the statue of the mythical Portuguese character that presides over the viewpoint.

With plenty of space – and almost always a street musician performing – the Santa Catarina Viewpoint feels more relaxed and a place where people tend to linger.

 

#9 Miradouro do Parque Eduardo VII 

The Eduardo VII Park extends 62 acres from the north end of Avenida da Liberdade and gradually inclines to one of the most stunning Lisbon lookout points.

At the top of this Lisbon city park, an enormous Portuguese flag billows in the breeze above a picturesque fountain. The views south over the green lawn and perfectly manicured hedges is quite a sight.

To the north, and one level up, is Amalia Rodrigues Park which also has a fantastic panorama Lisbon view.

 

#10 Miradouro da Vesi

A bit off the beaten path – and in our opinion, a total hidden gem – the Vesi Lookout is nestled right in the heart of the Estrela District.

The posh neighborhood sits atop a hill with long, sloping streets stretching towards the river.

Miradouro da Vesi is situated along Rua da Lapa at the top of Rua dos Remedios a Lapa. The view to the southeast features Pastel-painted houses with the sparkling river in the distance.

The parallel streets on either side – Rua de Sao Joao da Mata and Rua de Sao Felix – offer similar vantage points. Walking through this picturesque area is one of the Best Things To Do in Estrela. 

 

Lisbon Rooftop Views and Elevated Platforms

Rooftops and dedicated viewing decks are extraordinary places to get a birds’ eye view of the Lisbon cityscape, too!

 

#11 Arco da Rua Augusta

Situated on the north side of Praco do Comercio, the towering Arco da Rua Augusta offers a magnificent perspective.

From the top of the arch, you can take in the complete spectacle – including the Baixa District, the pedestrian-only Rua Augusta, the spacious Comercio Square and the riverside.

A convenient elevator and two sets of narrow steps gets you all the way to the top. If it’s crowded, you may need to wait for a green signal on the traffic light.

A fee is required, but we believe the 360-degree views of Lisbon are worth it. Plus, it’s free with the Sightseeing Lisbon Card.

 

#12 Cristo Rei

On the south bank of the Tagus River, a statue of Christ – called Cristo Rei – stands on a hill looking across the water toward the city.

The gigantic statue stands on top of a 269-foot-tall platform, which doubles as an observation deck. No effort is required to get to the top; an elevator whisks you right to the top (ticket required).

Note, too, that the surrounding park offers one of the phenomenal (and free) viewpoints in Portugal, with an up-close look at the 25 de Abril Bridge.

We share tips about how to get there and more about the complex in our Guide to Visiting Cristo Rei.

 

#13 National Pantheon 

Also called the Church of Santa Engracia, the National Pantheon is one of the top sights in Lisbon. It took 284 years to build and today the dome is visible from many points in the city.

Inside, exquisitely patterned marble and memorials to Portugal’s most revered historical figures are worth looking at. However, it is also a great place to see Lisbon from above.

Visitors are allowed to climb up the stairs to the Pantheon rooftop, which provides one of the outstanding viewpoints of Lisbon and the river.

A ticket is required to go inside and up to the rooftop, but it’s free with the Lisboa Card!

 

#14 Santa Justa Elevator

The historic, wrought-iron Lisbon Santa Justa Lift is a sensational man-made marvel.

It opened in 1899 to carry passengers from the lower streets of Baixa up to Carmo Square in the Bairro Alto district.

Now, the unique structure is a certified tourist attraction. There is almost always a long queue for the short – but steeply priced – ride to the top.

Unfortunately, there is no view from the elevator ride, so we recommend skipping it if the wait is too long.

Instead, hike up to Bairro Alto and access the top of the Santa Justa Lift for free! Only the ride costs; the walkways at the top can be accessed by anyone.

Do note, that the very top viewing platform was closed on our last trip for safety reasons. We are uncertain if it has been reopened.

Find the current Santa Justa lift price and other info on the official Carris Website. 

 

#15 Pilar 7 Lisbon Bridge Experience

An attraction in one of the lesser-visited Lisbon neighborhoods, Alcantara, the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience offers one of the best views in Portugal.

Visitors ascend to the top of a pylon on the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge that features viewpoints from a glass enclosure. Tickets required. 

 

#16 Amoreiras 360 Panoramic View

Just north of the Lisbon city center is one of the highest viewpoints in the city: the Amoreiras Towers.

While we have not personally visited this viewing platform, at a height of 570 feet above sea level, we are certain the 360-degree views are stunning. Find out more!

 

#17 Monument to the Discoveries in Belem

Standing on the riverside in lovely Belem – which is just 4 miles west of Lisbon – the Monument to the Discoveries has a excellent rooftop deck.

Built in the 1960s in honor of Henry the Navigator, the structure reaches a peak height of 180 feet.

From the viewpoint, you are treated to an ariel view of the historic Belem Tower, the extravagant Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Palace.

A fee is required to access the interior and the rooftop. We share more in our article about What To See in Belem. 

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Map of Lisbon Viewpoints

Use this Google Map for the online version of our Lisbon Viewpoints Map below.

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Tips for Lisbon, Portugal Viewpoints

Before you go, we have a some advice about visiting the places for the best Lisbon views.

 

Prepare to Huff and Puff

Gaining access to most of the viewing platforms in Lisbon requires an uphill walk. The reward, of course, is the sensational scenic vantage points.

Plus, you will be burning up calories from all the Portuguese wine and egg custard tarts! Just make sure you wear your most comfortable travel shoes for the trek. 

 

Don’t Forget Your Camera

The view from the top of Lisbon is superb! Capture the beauty with a real travel camera.

We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens. It takes amazing photos, can be bundled with tons of accessories and is a favorite camera of travelers. 

 

Plan Your Lisbon Trip

Finding places to take in the views is just one of the many fun things to do in Lisbon. We share heaps of advice – from our Free Lisbon Walking Tour to details about planning your own DIY Day Trip to Sintra or Cascais.

Our 2 Week Portugal Itinerary features Lisbon and Porto, as well as the Azores. While our 10-Day Itinerary for Portugal takes you to Madeira Island.

As you make plans, organization is key! Use our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details of your vacation.

 

Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

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