When I first planned my trip to the Portuguese capital, one word kept popping up: “Lisbon Miradouros.”
Everywhere I looked to plan my trip, the word popped up and tickled my mind.
So, when landing in Lisbon, I walked all over Lisbon to see them, and I am glad I did.
But what are the Lisbon miradouros? They are Lisbon viewpoints or lookouts with incredible views at the top of a hill.
So, if you plan a Lisbon vacation, you do not want to miss them as they are free. Still a warning: you will be trekking around as all of them are on top of a hill.
Trust me, it is a workout, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to sweat.
The Scenic Lisbon Miradouros
Lisbon’s miradouros are scattered across the city, offering captivating panoramic vistas of its unique topography.
One must navigate Lisbon’s hilly terrain and picturesque streets to explore these enchanting viewpoints.
So, check out my article How to Navigate the 7 Hills of Lisbon for more information.
The Easy Lisbon Quiz
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1. Castelo de São Jorge Miradouro
One of the most spectacular and highest Lisbon miradouros is standing on the terrace at the São Jorge Castle.
Learning about the city’s geography is one of the best Lisbon miradouros. You will have incredible city views from the terrace and the castle walls.
An interesting you must not miss while there is to visit the Tower of Ulysses Periscope. It is a medieval optical device that Leonardo Da Vinci developed to provide a 360-degree view of the city.
The castle itself is also worth exploring to give you insights into the rich history of Lisbon. So, plan to spend a couple of hours here.
How to Get There
You have several options to travel to Miradouro Castelo de São Jorge:
- Walking: Enjoy a stroll through the charming streets of the Alfama district, known for its narrow alleys and historic charm. The uphill walk adds to the adventure, offering glimpses of local life.
- Tram 28: For a unique experience, hop on the famous Tram 28. This iconic tram winds through Lisbon’s hills, providing a convenient and picturesque journey to the miradouro.
- Taxi or Uber: Opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service for a comfortable and quick ascent to the miradouro, especially if you prefer to save energy for exploring the castle and surroundings.
Admission Fee: Entering the castle and grounds costs €10 for adults and €5 for children.
Hot Tip🔥: I recommend visiting late afternoon to witness a stunning sunset over Lisbon. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you explore the castle grounds, as there are cobbled paths.
2. Miradouro das Portas do Sol
As I descended from the Castelo de São Jorge, I came across Miradouro das Portas do Sol. It is one of many viewpoints in Alfama, but I recommend stopping here.
I must agree that this is one of the Lisbon miradouros that offers limited views as it is in the lower part of Alfama Hill.
You will not see the city center as it is oriented northeast. Still, you get a great perspective of the historical district with red-roof tiles and the streets down to the Tagus River.
The nice thing is that I could come here a few times during my three-day trip as it was within walking distance of my accommodation.
I loved the terrace with a statue of St. Vincent, and I could enjoy refreshments at the kiosk.
How to Get There
Accessing Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a delightful journey through Lisbon’s historic Alfama district.
You can get here by walking in the narrow, winding streets.is a delightful journey through Lisbon’s historic Alfama district. You can get here by walking in the narrow, winding streets.
Or travel with Tram 28 and disembark at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol stop, conveniently located near the viewpoint.
Hot Tip 🔥: Consider visiting this beautiful viewpoint in the late afternoon to witness a spectacular sunset over Lisbon and the Tagus River. You can explore the nearby cafés and restaurants and savor local cuisine while enjoying the panoramic views.
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3. Miradouro de Santa Luizia
A few streets further down from the previous Lisbon viewpoint, you come across Miradouro de Santa Luzia. It is another one of the fantastic Lisbon miradouros.
What makes it so unique is that it is located inside a garden surrounded by Azulejo titles or Portuguese ceramic tiles.
It is in the lower Alfama by a church bearing the same name. Make sure to stop at the church and view the tile panels.
One of the images shows the Praça do Comercio before the 1755 earthquake. The other image shows Christians fighting to regain control over Castelo de São Jorge from the Moors.
Once I had finished viewing from the terrace, I went to a big stone wall leading to another garden known as Jardim Júlio de Castilho.
Here, you find a small pool with another Azulejo tile mural behind it, showing the Lisbon conquest.
How to Get There
As with most of these places, to reach Miradouro de Santa Luzia, you can walk the narrow streets or take the iconic Tram 28, which offers a scenic route.
You can stop at the Alfama stop and walk to Santa Luzia or opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service for a convenient and quick ride, especially if you want to conserve energy for further exploration.
Admission Fees
Miradouro de Santa Luzia typically does not charge an admission fee. However, separate admission fees may apply if you visit nearby attractions like the São Vicente de Fora Church or the National Pantheon.
Hot Tips🔥:
- Take your time to soak in the relaxing atmosphere of the miradouro, complete with benches and a garden.
- Explore the nearby cafés and terraces, allowing you to enjoy a drink or meal with a stunning view.
4. Miradouro de Alcantara
Between Bairro Alto and the Chaido district, you find Miradouro de São Pedro de Alc’ntara. It is one of the most romantic hilltops in Lisbon miradouros.
There is a two-level observation platform, trees, flower beds, fountains, benches, and gorgeous views.
Standing here, I could see the Tagus River and São Jorge Castle. This Lisbon miradouro was built in the 19th century on the walls stretching through Lisbon.
The viewpoint’s name comes from the São Pedro de Alcântara monastery opposite the terrace. I visited it during the day and night and discovered two different atmospheres.
In the morning, you get peace, but at night, it comes alive with music and people dancing. Food kiosks have tables to sit and relax while watching the spectacular views.
How to Get There
To reach Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, I recommend the following options:
- Take a stroll through the vibrant and trendy Bairro Alto district. The viewpoint is easily accessible on foot, and the journey allows one to explore the district’s lively atmosphere.
- While Tram 28 doesn’t directly pass through Bairro Alto, you can take the tram to a nearby stop and then enjoy a scenic walk through the district to reach the viewpoint.
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5. Miradouro da Graça
In the residential area by the Graça Church, you find the Miradouro de Graça. The Lisbon miradouros are popular places for locals to meet and enjoy a drink while admiring the view.
When looking over this Lisbon miradouros, it looks exactly like San Francisco. It has no high terrace, but you can view the city below. The Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, São Jorge Castle, and the Carmo Archaeological Museum can be seen.
It stands next to one of Lisbon’s oldest churches, Igraja e Convento da Graça, which dates back to 1271. Here, I explored the exciting collection of Azulejo tiles dating back to the 16th and 18th centuries.
How to Get There
Walking to Miradouro da Graça is an excellent option as you can immerse yourself in the Graça district’s authentic atmosphere.
Like most other neighborhoods, it has narrow streets for you to absorb the local charm.
You can also take the iconic Tram 28 to a nearby stop to enjoy a pleasant walk to the viewpoint.
Hot Tip🔥: One thing is for sure: Miradouro da Graça is known for its serene ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation. You can explore nearby cafes to enjoy a meal or drink, enjoying the fantastic views.
6. Miradouro Terraços do Carmo
I found that the Lisbon miradouros offered me the best panoramic views of:
- Baixa
- Rossio Square
- Rua Augusta Arch
- The waterfront of the Tagus River
It is at the top of Elevador de Santa Justa, giving you a 360-degree view. The elevator opens daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. The price is €5/person, or free if you have the Lisbon Card.
One thing I did find when visiting Lisbon in summer was that the queues were long, but you need not take the lift and can walk up to the viewpoint instead.
While there, I also visited the Carmo Convent ruins next door and enjoyed some Pasteis de Bacalhau bought at the top.
How to Get There
To reach Miradouro Terraços do Carmo, I recommend using the following options:
- Enjoy a scenic walk through the vibrant Chiado district towards the Carmo Convent. The viewpoint is conveniently located near the convent ruins.
- To reach the Chiado district, use public transport, such as buses or the metro. From there, follow signs or directions to the Carmo Convent and the viewpoint.
7. Rua Augusta Arch Viewpoint
At the Rua Augusta viewpoint, you can enjoy beautiful views over the Praça do Comércio, cathedral, downtown, and Rua Augusta.
You, the Miradouros Arco da Rua Augusta, can use the elevator inside to reach the rooftop terrace. Interestingly, the Rua Augusta Arch celebrates the Lisbon reconstruction after the November 1, 1755 earthquake.
Still, the version you will see dates from a century after 1875. The cost to reach the terrace is €2.50 per person.
From there, you can access a spiral staircase leading to the top, and I noted that it is only wide enough for one person. Also, before climbing up, you must press a button to advise traffic on the other side that it is clear to go up/down.
How to Get There
You can visit this fantastic place and see the viewpoint by walking through the Baixa district. A prominent landmark in the district is the Arco da Rua Augusta. Alternatively, you can use public transport, which is easily accessible from the square.
Hot Tip🔥: To ascend to the viewpoint, you can use the elevator within the arch. You will love this experience as you get glimpses of the architectural details of this historic monument.
Visit in the late afternoon to early evening for a beautiful sunset view. Then, explore the Baixa district’s lively scene, from restaurants to shops.
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Other Lisbon Miradouros
While these 7 Lisbon viewpoints are the most popular miradouros, there are a few other places with incredible Lisbon viewpoints:
- Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte is one of the highest points, with a tile panel to locate the main monuments with a city map.
- The Pilar 7 Bridge, you find the documentation of the Ponte 25 de Abril construction. At the top, alongside the road, you see a platform made of glass with beautiful views of the south bank.
- Panorâmico de Monsanto is around half a century old and found in Alto da Serafina, a building with the best viewpoint in Monsanto.
Wrap-Up: Visiting Lisbons Miradouros
Exploring Lisbon’s miradouros is about capturing stunning photographs and immersing yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
You can also see some famous attractions within walking distance and spectacular river views.
Each viewpoint tells a unique Lisbon story, from the historic Miradouro Castelo de São Jorge to the trendy Miradouro de São Pedro de Alc’ntara.
So, embark on a journey to these incredible viewpoints and let the charm of Lisbon unfold before your eyes, as it did for me.
