With the arrival of spring and longer days, there’s an increasing desire to get out of the house and enjoy the best the city has to offer. For those who especially need to relax, we present a brief guide to gardens in Lisbon.
From historic spaces to more modern ones, not forgetting botanical gardens, there is something for everyone. Whether you pay or have free entry, all you have to do is choose your favorite refuge, breathe in and breathe out, enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Table Of Contents
Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Garden
The Gulbenkian Modern Art Center recently reopened its doors after being closed due to an extensive renovation by architect Kengo Kuma. But the surrounding gardens were also given a makeover.
However, with or without renovation, it’s always worth visiting this Lisbon space, particularly the Gulbenkian Gardens, which are free to enter. Built in the 1960s, there you’ll find an excellent example of landscape architecture, but also a place to relax.
Between shady paths, dense green areas and a lake, the space evokes different regions of Portugal. It’s also the ideal place for a walk for two, reading a book and/or having a picnic on sunny spring and summer days.
Address: Avenida de Berna, 45 A
Opening hours: Sunday to Monday, 9 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.; Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission: free
Torel Garden
In a guide to Lisbon’s gardens, of course, you can’t miss a stop at Torel. After all, this is a ‘small’ urban refuge located in the center of Lisbon, offering breathtaking views over Baixa and the Tagus River.
Although it’s not exactly the largest green space in the city, that doesn’t mean it lacks charm. What’s more, in the summer it usually comes alive with an ‘urban beach’, with sand and a swimming pool in the main fountain.
Address: Rua Júlio de Andrade, Santo António
Opening hours: every day from 8am to 8pm
Entry: free
Lisbon Tropical Botanical Garden
With around seven hectares and more than 600 tropical and subtropical species, the Tropical Botanical Garden is a true oasis in Belém.
This space, which combines exuberant nature and history, allows you to explore different latitudes without leaving Lisbon. From tropical fruit trees to oriental sculptures in the Macau Garden, there is plenty to discover. In addition, the garden is a place of botanical study and preservation, enriched by artistic and cultural heritage.
Address: Largo dos Jerónimos
Opening hours: every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: €2 for adults
Jardim da Estrela
Inaugurated in 1852, this is one of Lisbon’s historic gardens, and its creation was supported by Queen Maria II. During the 19th century, it became a popular leisure spot for Lisbon’s bourgeoisie, one of whose most unusual attractions was the presence of a lion in a cage called ‘Leão da Estrela’.
Over time, the space has undergone various interventions and today it continues to be much sought after by locals and visitors. There you’ll find several trees, a historic bandstand, a terrace and a children’s playground, perfect for youngsters to play to their heart’s content.
Address: Praça da Estrela
Opening hours: every day from 7am to 0am
Entry: free
Ajuda Botanical Garden
Created in 1768, this is Portugal’s first botanical garden and one of the oldest in Europe, having been created after the Lisbon earthquake.
At the time, the Ajuda Botanical Garden was created to help the royal princes study biodiversity.
Today, it is one of the capital’s attractions with many species, peacocks, an Aroma Garden and a special fountain.
Address: Calçada da Ajuda
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; weekend, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: €2 for adults; €1 for students and seniors
Príncipe Real Garden
This is another of Lisbon’s historic gardens, but unlike the previous one, you don’t have to pay to enter. Located in a noble district of the city, the origin of this green space dates back to 1853, when it was inaugurated.
Its construction was inspired by the English romantic style with winding paths, garden areas and decorative elements that evoke tranquillity.
There are cafés and kiosks where you can have a drink or a light meal. It also hosts a number of small themed markets.
Address: Praça do Príncipe Real
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry: free
Estufa Fria
In the heart of Parque Eduardo VII, Estufa Fria is home to three different spaces:
- Cold Greenhouse, with no heating and full of plants from all over the world
- Hot Greenhouse, with tropical species
- Sweet Greenhouse, dedicated to cacti
This is one of the most tranquil and enchanting places in Lisbon, perfect for strolling among lakes, caves and lush vegetation.
Address: Parque Eduardo VII, Alameda Eng. Edgar Cardoso
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
General admission: €3.25
Tapada das Necessidades Garden
Located in the Alcântara area, the Tapada das Necessidades Garden is one of Lisbon’s most beloved green spaces. This historic garden, close to places like the National Museum of Ancient Art and the Marionette Museum, offers a unique combination of lush nature and cultural heritage.
In addition to its exotic vegetation and rare trees, such as dragon trees and Japanese phormiums, the space has three lakes surrounded by statues and an 18th century palace that was once a royal residence. For those who appreciate tranquillity and history, this garden is a real treasure.
Address: Calçada das Necessidades
Opening hours: every day from 9am to 5pm
Entry: free
Lisbon Botanical Garden
Classified as a National Monument, the Lisbon Botanical Garden is a must-visit for anyone who loves getting to know different species, particularly subtropical and exotic ones.
Founded in 1878, this historic space also includes an incredible Butterfly House (open to the public). It is currently part of the National Museum of Natural History and Science.
Address: Rua da Escola Politécnica, 54 – 58
Opening hours: every day from 9am to 8pm
Admission: 4€ adults
