If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Lisbon Botanical Garden. You will not regret it.
You can enjoy some peace 🤫 in the heart of Lisbon at Jardim Botânico de Lisboa, located in the Principe Real district.
It is a peaceful center for reflecting on yourself, learning about plant conservation, and education.
So, visit this fantastic garden to learn more about plants or take a break. I have compiled a list of everything to know before visiting with insider tips.
Visiting Lisbon Botanical Garden
Before visiting the botanical gardens in Lisbon, it is important to know some things. The garden is in R. da Escola Politécnica 58, 1250-102 Lisboa, Portugal.
Ticket Prices
You can obtain tickets from the ticket office at the main entrance on Praça do Príncipe Real. The admission fee is as follows:
- Entry fee: €5 per person
- Family tickets €8: This includes two adults and two kids under 17
- Combination ticket: €8 to visit the garden and museum
- On Sundays, admission is free
- Children under ten visit the garden for free
- Guided tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays to learn about the various plant species
Lisbon Botanical Garden Times
The garden is open daily as follows:
- Summer from 1 April to 30 September, open from 10 AM to 8 PM
- Winter from 1 October to 31 March from 10 AM to 5 PM
- The garden is closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, and 1 May
Hot Tip🔥: Spring and summer are the best times to visit the garden to see the variety of plants in bloom. However, the other seasons also bring out different beauty in the garden.
Exploring Lisbon Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon first opened in 1878. It opened for teaching and researching botany. In 2010, it was declared a National Monument.
The garden, which spreads over four hectares but is not noticeable from the outside, contains more than 18,000 plant species worldwide.
Each plant is labeled, and today, the Lisbon Botanical Garden dedicates its research to the conservation of endangered species and is an active center for studying biodiversity and understanding plant genetics.
It has many things to explore and see, and it is filled with exotic plants and more.
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How Long Does a Visit Take?
You can easily spend an hour at the Lisbon Botanical Garden if you are short on time.
However, if you want to learn more about subtropical vegetation than other types of plants, you will need two hours.
If you plan to visit the National Museum of Natural History and Science next door, it can make up more than half a day and is worth the trip.
Lisbon Gardens Botanical Species
The scientific garden is impressive with the variety of plants available. All the plants were brought to Portugal from other colonies.
You find an extensive collection of plants divided into sections for each type of plant.
The first thing you notice entering the botanic garden is the collection of palm trees. There are more than 30 types in the garden.
You can also find carnivorous plants, ferns, banana trees, aromatic plants, and gardens dedicated to medicine.
Walking along the lanes, you will see exotic species of cacti and succulents from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, and South America.
Another highlight of the botanical garden is the butterfly garden and butterfly house, the only one in Europe open to the public.
Most of the gardens are deserted, making it feel like you are walking through an enchanted garden.
Lisbon Secret Garden Architecture
As with most places in Portugal, the botanical garden in Lisbon has historical architecture.
Several centuries-old greenhouses, herbariums, palmariums, and an astronomical observatory are on display.
As mentioned, you can find a greenhouse, a butterfly house where they breed butterflies.
You can learn about their importance in the ecosystem. A former academic building is now the National Museum of Natural History and Science.
The garden paths are lined with statues and fountains dating back to the 19th century, making it feel like an enchanted garden.
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Nearby Attractions
As mentioned, the National Museum of Natural History and Science is next to the garden. The museum offers exhibits on various topics, from geology to zoology.
Then, take a short walk to Jardim do Principe Real, where you can explore the park, which has a variety of plant species and shaded walkways.
Here, you find Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, providing spectacular views of Lisbon.
Close to the viewpoint, you can visit São Roque Church, which has a baroque design with traditional azulejo tiles and is one of the most famous churches in Lisbon.
How to Travel to Lisbon Botanical Garden
The closest station is Rato metro station, the last stop of the yellow line and a six-minute walk away.
Then you have Tram 28 departing at Praça Luís de Camões in Chiado and stops nearby.
Alternatively, you can take Tram 24 or bus 758, which stops at the Praça do Príncipe Real entrance.
Tips For Visiting Lisbon Botani Garden
Visiting the Lisbon Botanical Garden is a delightful experience, offering a peaceful retreat in the city’s heart. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
- Timing Your Visit: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, especially in the summer, to enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Plan Your Route: The garden has an extensive collection of palms, a cycad collection, and greenhouses to visit.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The garden has a variety of pathways, many of which are steep or uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are best.
- Bring Water and Snacks: While you can find cafes nearby, water and snacks will refresh you during your visit.
- Brings a Camera: The garden is a photographer’s paradise, with its exotic plants, beautiful landscapes, and tranquil ponds. Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of Lisbon’s skyline from specific points in the garden.
- Respect the Environment: Stick to the designated paths, avoid touching the plants, and be mindful of the wildlife that calls the garden home.
History of Lisbon Botanical Garden
The Lisbon Botanical Garden, or Jardim Botânico de Lisboa, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It was established in 1873 as part of the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Lisbon.
The garden was created as a research and teaching tool for botanists and students. It features various plant species worldwide, particularly from regions with Mediterranean climates.
The garden’s design was influenced by the work of German botanist Friedrich Welwitsch and Italian architect Giulio Augusto Bordalo Pinheiro.
Over the years, the garden became renowned for its extensive collection of subtropical and tropical plants, reflecting Portugal’s global connections during the Age of Exploration.
Despite facing challenges such as neglect and damage from natural disasters, the Lisbon Botanical Garden remains a treasured green space in the city’s heart.
It has undergone several restorations to preserve its historical and botanical significance. Today, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists, offering a serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.
Wrap-Up: Botanical Garden in Lisbon
I hope this comprehensive guide about the Lisbon Botanical Garden has provided you with all the information you need for a fantastic visit.
From ticket prices and visiting hours to the diverse plant species and nearby attractions, this beautiful garden offers everyone a tranquil and enriching experience.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast or seeking some peaceful time amidst the bustling city, the Lisbon Botanical Garden is worth a visit.
Plan your trip accordingly, and I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time exploring this hidden gem in the heart of Lisbon.
