Almada, which is located on the south bank of the River Tagus, just opposite Lisbon, has an urban area of 13.98 km2 and a population of 88,202 (2021 census).
Almada was granted a charter by King Sancho I in 1190 and has a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period, with influences from various civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Romans and Moors.
From Lisbon to Almada it’s a short hop – if there’s no traffic – across the 25 de Abril Bridge, where you can then head to the famous beaches of the Costa.
This area of the south bank also offers incredible views of Lisbon from places like the castle, the panoramic Boca do Vento funicular and, of course, the iconic Cristo Rei statue.
Here you can enjoy the region’s typical dishes, such as caldeiradas, in traditional places like Cacilhas, Porto Brandão, Ginjal and Costa da Caparica.
Almost always with the Tagus on the horizon, here’s our guide to what to see and visit in Almada, which starts by the river and ends with a swim.
1 – Largo de Cacilhas (or Largo Alfredo Diniz)
In Cacilhas, this is one of the best gateways into the municipality of Almada, not least because of the incredible views it offers from the Miradouro do Farol, with the Tagus in the foreground and Lisbon on the horizon.
2 – Frigate D. Fernando II e Glória
After being restored, the Frigate D. Fernando II e Glória, the last ship to sail on the India voyage, is now an authentic museum ship that provides an insight into life on board a 19th century frigate.
3 – Ginjal Quay
Despite the deterioration of the buildings, it still offers one of the most beautiful walks in the municipality of Almada, always parallel to the river.
Whether for a meal or a drink, the restaurants Atira-te ao Rio and Ponto Final are a must.
4 – Jardim do Rio and Miradouro da Boca do Vento
A pleasant green area next to the Tagus, it allows access to the city’s historic center via the elevator at Miradouro Luís de Queiroz, better known as Miradouro da Boca do V ento .
5 – Rua Cândido dos Reis
It has become even more attractive since it became a pedestrian street in 2012. At the beginning is a replica of an old fountain and at the end is the Municipal Tourism Center, while in between you’ll find many good restaurants.
6 – Church of Nossa Senhora do Bom Sucesso
Built in 1759 and with a Pombaline façade, it preserves 18th century tiles and a beautiful gilded interior.
7 – Misericórdia Church
Located in the heart of Almada, it was rebuilt in 1756 after the great earthquake. With its simple lines, it houses an interesting Mannerist altarpiece from the second half of the 16th century.
8 – Medieval Museum
Shows life in Almada between the 12th and 19th centuries. The collection includes a valuable set of silos belonging to a granary from the Islamic period.
9 – Castle Garden
The views of the Tagus and Lisbon on the other bank are the main attraction of this green space located in Largo 1º de Maio.
10 – Naval Museum
Almada’s strong connection to the river and the sea can be seen in this interesting space in Olho-de-Boi. Shipbuilding and ship repair from the mid-19th century to the present day is one of the strong themes.
11 – Casa da Cerca – Contemporary Art Center
Located in a centuries-old farmhouse, Casa da Cerca is one of the city’s most important cultural spaces.
The beautiful botanical garden (Chão das Artes), the views of the Tagus and, of course, the vast and diverse program more than justify a visit here.
12 – Museum of Philharmonic Music
Located right in the historic center of the city, it reveals the history of the philharmonics and the municipality’s collectives.
13 – Almada Velha Interpretation Center
Opened in 2013, this museum space located in the old Chapel of the Holy Spirit (14th century) reveals the history and memories of the old town.
14 – Chapel of São Sebastião
Built in the 16th century in honor of São Sebastião, this small temple probably has its origins in 1554, when King João III ordered the construction of several churches around the country to protect the population from the plague.
15 – Sanctuary of Christ the King
Inaugurated in 1959, the Cristo Rei Sanctuary is one of Almada’s landmarks, thanks to an imposing structure that rises 113 meters above river level.
Inside, it houses the Chapel of Our Lady of Peace, while at the top is a spectacular viewpoint with 360º views.
16 – Solar dos Zagallos
Located in Sobreda, this former 18th century farmhouse is now an important cultural and leisure space.
Don’t miss the main building, the gardens and the three chapels which house an important collection of tiles.
17 – Peace Park
A natural space covering some 60 hectares, with plenty of lawns, leafy trees, a wooded area and even a lake.
18 – Capuchos Convent
Built in the 16th century, the Capuchos Convent was a place where Franciscan friars gathered and now hosts various cultural events.
19 – Medos National Forest
Classified as a Botanical Reserve, this is a pleasant leisure and recreational area with picnic areas, an interpretation center and beautiful viewpoints.
20 – Submarine Barracuda
The year 2013 forever marked the fate of the oldest submersible under NATO orders, which this year set up camp on the south bank of the River Tagus, in Cacilhas, for the work that would make it properly prepared to receive visits from all interested parties.
21 – Costa de Caparica beaches
With 13 kilometers of Atlantic coastline, the municipality of Almada offers numerous beaches, such as Praia da Rainha, Praia da Sereia or Praia da Nova Vaga.
On one side you have the sea and on the other the unmistakable landscape of the Costa de Caparica Fossil Cl iffs.
Don’t miss out! Follow us on Facebook,Instagram and now WhatsApp too!
