10 Best Scenic Lisbon Viewpoints

The best views in Lisbon are from the city’s miradouros, or lookout points. The Lisbon miradouros are parks that are perched on hillsides – and they offer some of the Best Views in Portugal. We are highlighting the absolute must-see Lisbon viewpoints.

 

Best Viewpoints in Lisbon

The city of Lisbon, Portugal is stunningly beautiful…and incredibly hilly. Nicknamed the City of Seven Hills, walking around Lisbon can be a bit of a workout.

The reward, however – besides burning up all the calories from Port Wine and custard tarts – are the numerous scenic Lisbon Viewpoints.

The hidden Lisbon terraces offer dazzling panoramic views of the bright and colorful city. While exploring the picturesque Lisbon streets, we discovered Ten Scenic Viewpoints in Lisbon that we think are the absolute best!

 

Miradouros in Lisbon (Miradouros de Lisboa)

Miradouros Lisboa – or, Lisbon lookout points – can be found all over the city. The Miradouros often have shaded benches and are sometimes accompanied by a small café. The best viewpoints in Lisbon are frequented by both tourists and locals.

The small terraces reward those who seek them out with the greatest views in Lisbon – and finding at least one is a must-do for anyone visiting Lisbon! 

 

Finding the Best Viewpoints Lisbon

Although the miradouros offer prime views over Lisbon, they are not the only Lisbon viewpoints. Some of the city’s highest rooftops offer panoramic views of Lisbon, too!

There are a few Lisbon churches and monuments that allow visitors to take a lift or climb to the rooftop for views. We highly recommend taking the opportunity to see Lisbon from the different vantage points.

Our list of the Best 10 Scenic Lisbon Viewpoints includes both Miradouro Lisbon Terraces (that are free) and Lookout Lisbon Viewing Platforms (that charge a small fee.)

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Lisbon Travel Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!

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10 Scenic Lisbon Viewpoints

On our Lisbon list, the miradouros are first (#1-7), then the monument platform lookout points (#8-10). We think these viewpoints are the most beautiful places in Lisbon and the best photo spots in Lisbon, as well.

To help you find your way, we have included all of the locations on a Lisbon Viewpoints Map at the end of the article.

 

#1 Miradouro Graca Lisboa

The Graca Lookout (called Miradouro da Graca and Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andersen) is one of the most popular places for Lisbon panoramic views. It is regularly touted as the Best Miradouro Lisbon for the accessibility and the iconic Lisbon, Portugal skyline view. 

The easy-to-find location is near St. George Castle Lisbon (Castelo de São Jorge) – and the miradouro provides one of the best views of the famous landmark castle. The terrace ranks as one of our favorite miradouros for wide city views and watching the sunset in Lisbon.

Top Tip: Before leaving the viewpoint, take a look inside the Graca Church; it’s one of the Must-See Churches in Lisbon. 

 

#2 Miradouro das Portas do Sol, Lisbon

Portas do Sol is a heavily visited tourist spot – as evidenced by the number of street vendors and musicians that frequent the area. It’s for good reason: this Lisbon viewpoint offers spectacular vistas over the Alfama neighborhood. The scenic view of Alfama Lisbon encompasses two Lisbon landmarks: Sao Vicente de Fora and the National Pantheon.

There is also a second terrace, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, next to Portas do Sol. There is a small café and the narrow platform is almost always crowded. 

Top Tip: A statue of St. Vincent – one of many Lisbon monuments to saints – stands next to the small café above Portas do Sol. Across the street are convenient stops for Lisbon Tram 28 and Tram 12.

 

#3 Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte, Lisbon

Supposedly less popular than the two previous lookout points, we typically found more tourists than locals at Miradouro Senhora do Monte (or Our Lady of the Hill). Further north than Miradouro de Graca, but with a more elevated vantage point, it’s one of the most stunning Lisbon viewpoints.

Top Tip: Looking for romantic places in Lisbon? We think Miradouro Senhora do Monte hits the mark – as it is one of the best sunset spots Lisbon! Really make it romantic by packing a small picnic or a bring-your-own adult beverage to enjoy along with the Lisbon scenery!

 

#4 Miradouro do Monte Agudo Lisboa

It’s definitely a hike to get to this Lisbon miradouro, but is worth the effort! Popular with local dog owners (and few tourists), the views from Miradouro Monte Agudo are oriented to the south.

The Lisbon panorama perspective includes a clear view of two famous landmarks in Lisbon: Cristo Rei Statue and 25 de Abril Bridge. In fact, we think this might actually be the best Lisbon bridge viewpoint.

Top Tip: An easier way to get around Lisbon, City of Seven Hills, is by using public transportation! We include tips on Getting Around Lisbon at the end of the post. 

 

#5 Miradouro de Santa Estevao Lisboa

Perhaps not the most amazing of our 10 best of 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 often serene miradouro.

If your idea of the Best Viewpoints Lisbon is a peaceful and quiet place, then the Santa Estavao viewpoint is likely your best bet!

Top Tip: After spending a couple of hours winding through the dense and narrow streets of Alfama, go to Santa Estevao Miradouro to catch your breath – and a view.

 

#6 Miradouro de San Pedro de Alcantara Lisboa

Miradouro de San Pedro de Alcantara reigns as one of the better skyline viewpoints of the Lisbon Old Town. A two-level park, the miradouro in Bairro Alto provides views to the east with Alfama and the St. George Castle in perfect sight.

Top Tip: The soft light of the setting sun gives the entire scene a warm glow, possibly making the Bairro Alto Miradouro the best sunset view in Lisbon (just not of the sunset, itself).

 

#7 Miradouro do Parque Eduardo VII (and Amalia Rodrigues Park)

The Eduardo VII Park – one of the best parks in Lisbon – 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 the 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 down the river is quite a sight.

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

Top Tip: The Eduardo VII Park is one of the best places in Lisbon to visit for free. 

 

#8 Arco da Rua Augusta, Lisboa

Arco da Rua Augusta Viewpoint Lisbon is the towering arch on the north side of Praco do Comercio. The famous arch leads into the Baixa district via the pedestrian-only Rua Augusta. There is a elevator to the top of the grand arch where guests have 360 degree views of Lisbon.

Top Tip: The ride up costs €3 and tickets are purchased in a small shop north of the arch on the east side of Rua Augusta – and it’s free with the Lisbon Sightseeing Card (which is also good for free entry into 39 sights of Lisbon).

 

#9 Cristo Rei, Lisbon

On the south bank of the Tagus River, the Christ Statue Lisbon (Cristo Rei), stands on a hill looking across the river to the city – and provides a stellar panorama of Lisbon and the 25 de Abril Bridge. 

The views from the surrounding park are phenomenal (and free). It’s one of the iconic free viewpoints in Portugal. 

That said, visitors who want to view Lisbon from the top of the 269-foot-tall viewing platform can pay a small fee for the elevator ride up. 

Top Tip: To get to Cristo Rei, visitors can take a ferry ride across the river to Cacilhas. Read our detailed post on Visiting Cristo Rei.

 

#10 National Pantheon Lisbon

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

Inside, exquisitely patterned marble and memorials to Portugal’s most revered historical figures are worth looking at – but 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.

Top Tip: Entry costs a few Euro – but it’s free with the Lisbon Sightseeing Card!

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More Viewpoints in Lisbon, Portugal

Looking for more panoramic Lisbon views? Check out these popular viewpoints!

 

Miradouro de Santa Catarina Lisboa

The Miradouro Santa Catarina Lisbon – sometimes referred to the Miradouro do Adamastor for the statue of Adamastor that stands on the Lisbon lookout – is known for it’s sweeping views of the Tagus River, Cristo Rei and April 25th Bridge.

 

Santa Justa Elevator

The Lisbon Santa Justa Lift takes passengers from the lower streets of Baixa up to Carmo Square in the Bairro Alto district – no climbing required! It was built in 1902, but today, it is somewhat of a tourist attraction and although we heard the views are fantastic, we skipped it.

Tickets are required; find the current Santa Justa lift price and other info on the official Carris website. 

 

Pilar 7 Lisbon Bridge Experience

A new 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. 

 

Amoreiras 360 Panoramic View

Just north of the Lisbon city centre is one of the highest viewpoints in the city: the Amoreiras Towers. The viewing platform sits 174 meters above sea level and offers 360 degree views of the city. Many claim that it is the best view in Portugal. Find out more!

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Map of Lisbon Viewpoints

Use this link to Google Maps for the online version of our Lisbon Viewpoints Map.

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Planning a Trip To Lisbon, Portugal

Seeking out the scenic Lisbon viewpoints is one of the best things to do in the city – but there is so much more to planning a Lisbon trip! 

Travelers coming from overseas should start with our Portugal Itinerary and advice on How To Plan a European Vacation. We detail need-to-know info and share top tips from our personal travels. 

To plan your time in Lisbon, use our detailed 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary, where we organize sightseeing into day-by-day adventures. 

Looking for more things to do in Lisbon? We have dedicated articles that will help you easily discover the greatest city sights. 

• Check out our list of Free Things To Do in Lisbon
• Tips for visiting the best historic Lisbon Churches.
• Use our Guide to Planning a Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip.
• Read about the Lisbon area landmarks in nearby Belem.
• How To Visit the Lisbon Christ Statue

 

More Portugal Destinations

Is Porto also in your plans for a vacation to Portugal? Excellent! Our Porto Itinerary features the absolute best things to see and do!

You can also check out our Porto Walking Tour, our recommendations for the Top Places To Eat in Porto and where to find great Porto Craft Beer!

Prefer a tropical escape? Madeira Island may just be what you’re looking for! Gorgeous scenery, amazing Madeiran Cuisine and the entertaining city of Funchal are all great reasons to visit Madeira.

 

Portugal Travel Planner

As you prepare for your trip to Portugal, staying organized is key! Our printable Travel Planner is designed to keep you on track and organized! 

 

Lisbon Sightseeing Tips

If you plan on visiting museums and sites – and traveling via public transportation – the Lisboa Card can provide significant savings.

With the Lisboa Card, all public transportation (including the Santa Justa Lift), is free. Additionally, entry fees to many museums and top Lisbon sights are covered with the card. Other sights, like St. George Castle Lisbon (Castelo de Sao Jorge), can be visited at a reduced admission fee.

 

Getting Around Lisbon

Although the public transportation options in Lisbon are ample, it can be confusing for anyone who isn’t used to using it. Find information about riding the trams (including the famous Tram 28 Lisbon) on the official transport website and on this Lisbon Metro Map.

Easier to figure out than public transport is the Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus that makes stops near all the popular tourist spots. 

 

Lisbon Day Trips

In addition to sightseeing in Lisbon, visitors can explore beyond the city center on a popular Lisbon day trip. 

Quick trips include jaunts to nearby Belem and Cristo Rei – and those are easy to plan on your own. We also highly recommend embarking on an excursion to the UNESCO heritage town of Sintra.

Although the journey to Sintra can be completed on your own, an organized small-group combo tour from Lisbon to Sintra and Coastal Cascais can be a good value (and you are almost guaranteed not to get locked in a train station, like we did the first time we made the trip!)

You can search for the best day trips in Lisbon on Viator – where you can read fellow traveler reviews!

 

Where To Stay in Lisbon, Portugal

During our many trips to Lisbon, we have stayed in Airbnb Apartments in Alfama and Campo de Ourique and been International House Sitters in the Lapa neighborhood. On a luxury trip to Lisbon, we stayed in the posh Altis Hotel and Spa in Belem. All of these are fabulous districts and some of the best places to stay in Lisbon!

 

Hotels in Lisbon

There are many top-rated Lisbon hotels – in a range of prices that will suit every travelers’ budget. 

Some of the best hotels in Lisbon are TURIM Marques Hotel, My Story Hotel Rossio, Portugal Boutique Hotel. 

On a budget? Check out the popular Lisbon Hostels, Hostel 15.

Whether you are looking for a Lisbon Hotel, Hostel, or Holiday Apartment, you can start your search on Booking.com – like we do! But first, read our tips for Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap!

 

Getting To Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. The Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is the main international airport in Portugal. There are direct flights in the summer from the US to Lisbon from San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Boston, DC and Philly. 

Our preferred method of getting anywhere is flying (we are JetSettingFools, after all!) and we’ve arrived in Lisbon from London and Paris and departed on flights to Madrid and Barcelona. 

When we need to purchase plane tickets, we begin our search for deals on Skyscanner. To find the best cheap tickets, however, start by reading our Guide to Booking Flights.

We once took a cab to get from the Lisbon Airport to the city center – and were severely overcharged. We now either book airport transfers in advance or use Uber.

 

Bus and Train to Lisbon

If arriving/departing Lisbon by train or bus, there are several stations in the city. When booking travel by train or bus to Lisbon, pay close attention to the station of arrival/departure, and there is not just one main station in Lisbon.

For a comfortable and affordable bus ride to Lisbon, we recommend using Flixbus. 

 

What To Pack for Your Trip to Lisbon, Portugal

Now that you are ready to go to Lisbon, it’s time to start packing! We are offering a few ideas on what you will need, but share our best advice on our Travel Packing Tips page. You can grab your FREE Packing Checklist here!

 

Good Travel Shoes

Lisbon is a walkable city…but only if you have the right travel shoes! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I like wearing these shoes by Columbia. Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell.

 

Great Travel Camera

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel, which takes amazing photos and is a favorite camera for budget travelers. 

 

Day Pack

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll want a great day bag – like the small packs we use – to make sure all your everyday travel items are safe and organized! Find more of our Top Picks for Travel Day Bags. 

 

Lisbon Map and Guidebook

It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city…and especially Lisbon! Make sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook before arriving.

 

Portugal Travel Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.

 

Looking for more Travel Planning Tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and our Complete Packing List and other Travel Resources!

 

 

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