Take a look at my list of the top 6 best viewing points in Lisbon (or “Miradouros” as they call it in portuguese):
Senhora do Monte
This is one of the highest viewing points, with a 360º panoramic view over the entire city of Lisbon.
It’s named after the Nossa Senhora do Monte (Our Lady of the Mount) chapel that stands out at the top of Lisbon’s highest hill. On the way up, you’ll find typical Portuguese buildings filled with street art gratifies, a perfect blend of the old and the new.
It’s a tough (well worthily) climb, but if walking is a problem you can always take a Uber or a tuk-tuk.
Up there, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view over the São Jorge Castle, Baixa, the Tagus river and the 25 de Abril Bridge. On Summer days it’s usual to find food trucks and some live music on spot. This is definitely one of the best places to enjoy a beautiful sunset!
Don’t forget to bring your camera, good shoes and maybe a drink just incase the food trucks aren’t there.
Here you find the location of Miradouro Nossa Senhora do Monte.
Miradouro da Graça
Located in the heart of Graça, the viewpoint of the same name is the perfect spot to be in good weather! It has a very relaxed and also romantic vibe.
Here you can find a kiosk where they sell drinks and you can enjoy the shadow of the pine trees. It will be the perfect way to cool down from walking your way up.
Santa Luzia
Halfway between the castle and the river, the Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of the most charismatics you can visit. Besides the amazing view over the historical quarter of Alfama, you will find here your picture-perfect spot. Ancient Portuguese tiles and a pergola filled with vibrant flowers make up this amazing setting.
There are many restaurants and cafes around where you can grab a drink and listen to good live music. I love to come here because the area and vibe is really relaxed despite the busy traffic around.
Right next to the Santa Luzia viewpoint, you can find Portas do Sol, literally “Sun Doors”. Doesn’t have the charm of Santa Luzia, but is definitely worth a visit since it’s just around the corner.
São Pedro de Alcântara
Standing between the charming neighbourhood of Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto, you’ll find the very romantic Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. The view is so breathtaking as it is unexpected, specially after climbing through Lisbon’s narrow streets.
It’s probably the best place to watch the sunrise as the daylight comes over the Castle illuminating the entire city. Here you’ll find a kiosk where you can have a drink and watch the busy city life passing by, while you relax overlooking the downtown area and the Tagus river.
Don’t forget to take a look at the lower part of the viewing point. There’s a park with art subjects of the Greek Mythology such as Minerva and Ulysses.
Here you find the location of Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina
One of the locals’ favourite, the Miradouro de Santa Catarina has a fantastic view over the river Tagus, the 25 de Abril Bridge and Cristo Rei. It’s located in Bica, a small neighbourhood famous for the yellow tram that continuously strolls up and down the street. Close to Bairro Alto, has a very relaxed atmosphere where locals and tourist blend and share experiences.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina is generally called by locals just as “O Adamastor”, thanks to the large stone statue at top that honours the mythological characters made famous by Portuguese poet, Luis de Camões.
Since Lisbon has many viewing points (and I may get confused sometimes…) I call this one the viewing point with the stone stairs – you will find out why when you see it! There’s a kiosk and live music which makes it super nice to just grab a drink and hang out. The view is amazing across the day and night, but during sunset you will have a beautiful sunlight over Lisbon.
Here you find the location of Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Panorâmico de Monsanto
Abandoned since 2001, this building was once a luxury restaurant, a nightclub, an office space and a warehouse. Now, it’s the highest viewing point in Lisbon with a breathtaking 360º view over the city.
It’s located right in the heart of Monsanto Forest Park, a green oasis just a few minutes away from the city center. The Panorâmico de Monsanto unfortunately is only reachable by car, but the view and experience is definitely worth the effort.
The building itself looks old, but the interesting architecture, and specially the amazing street graffiti art on the walls, makes it the perfect scenario for really special pictures!
You can find the location of Panorâmico de Monsanto here!
