Choosing the best viewpoints in Lisbon is impossible, and we didn’t dare choose five either, but we’ve come up with a top 10 (in no particular order) with our hearts in our hands.
Yes, we know that politics, religion and viewpoints can’t be discussed, but here’s our guide anyway.
Feel free to agree, disagree, argue and, of course, have your say.
1 – Nossa Senhora do Monte viewpoint
Anyone who says that this is the best viewpoint in the city is probably not far off the mark.
The views from Lisbon’s highest point are breathtaking, with the castle and the historic center in the foreground and, just beyond, the Tagus on the horizon.
On the site, there is a 13th century chapel dedicated to Senhora do Monte.
2 – Portas do Sol viewpoint
This is one of Lisbon’s most classic viewpoints and its privileged location, between São Jorge Castle and Alfama, makes it one of the most popular.
It’s a veritable balcony overlooking the historic part of the city, made up of houses, sky and the Tagus.
A stone’s throw away is another unmissable viewpoint, albeit with similar views: Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
3 – São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint
Located in the garden of the same name, next to the Glória elevator and at the gates of Bairro Alto, this viewpoint offers one of the most beautiful and complete panoramas of the city, facing São Jorge Castle, but also with Baixa and the Tagus appearing in the photo.
The terrace, in a more secluded spot, invites you to enjoy the views while having a drink.
4 – Miradouro da Graça
The official name is Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen (the poet even has a bust there), but everyone knows it as Miradouro da Graça.
The church, the terrace, the leafy trees and, of course, the spectacular views of the city provide the ideal setting for those who want to admire the city.
5 – Miradouro do Jardim do Recolhimento
Just a stone’s throw from São Jorge Castle, the Miradouro do Jardim do Recolhimento is one of Lisbon’s best kept secrets.
As well as being breathtaking, the views are also surprising because of the unusual perspective, with Alfama at its feet, framed by the Tagus, the Monastery of São Vicente and the Church of Santa Engrácia.
On site, there is a diamond-shaped installation that helps you take incredible photos, as well as a children’s playground and a reading booth full of books.
6 – São Jorge Castle Viewpoint
As well as being a historical symbol of Lisbon, the Castelo de São Jorge is also one of the best viewpoints, or it wouldn’t be at one of the highest points in the city.
From here you can see a large part of the capital, especially the historic area, but you can also reach more distant places, such as the Serra da Arrábida, which is more than 40 kilometers from Lisbon.
7 – Monsanto Panoramic
Lisbon’s green lung is home to (and hides) one of the capital’s most surprising viewpoints , the Monsanto Panoramic.
It is located in a mysterious building that has served as a restaurant, bingo hall, nightclub, warehouse and abandoned site, before officially becoming a viewpoint open to all.
The latest attraction is a mural by Vhils that pays homage to Brazilian activist Marielle Franco, who was murdered in Rio de Janeiro in March 2018.
8 – Arco da Rua Augusta viewpoint
Open to the public since 2013, the Miradouro do Arco da Rua Augusta is well worth the price of admission.
The way up is via an elevator and two more flights of stairs and, once at the top, you’ll be able to see Praça do Comércio and the Tagus on one side, Rua Augusta on the other, and further away the castle, the 25 de Abril Bridge and the south bank of the river.
9 – Amoreiras 360° Panoramic Views
Tower 1 of the Amoreiras Shopping Center is home to this spectacular panoramic viewpoint, situated 174 meters high.
With 360° views, it allows you to see all of Lisbon (and beyond) from the city center: the historic area, the new buildings, the castle, the hills, the Tagus and much more, everything seems to fit on this high point of the capital.
When you go there, don’t forget to take your cell phone or camera because any picture from here is guaranteed to be a hit on social media.
10 – Pilar 7 Experience
This is one of the city’s most recent viewpoints, inviting visitors to take in an unusual perspective from the 25 de Abril Bridge.
In addition to the scenery it offers, it’s almost as if you were levitating over Alcântara and the Tagus.
It also tells the story of this bridge through an immersive experience that takes you into spaces inaccessible to the public. Admission is paid.