Lisbon is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, owing to its many hills, which provide magnificent views from the summit. Numerous hilltops have been terraced to serve as “miradouros” (viewpoints), and miradouro-hopping is a must-do in the city. While you’re walking about, you’ll stumble upon a few by accident, others are worth making an effort to see. Numerous overlooks include refreshment shops, making them popular gathering spots for residents and visitors alike, as well as the perfect spot for a stop while touring. Below is a list of the terraces and observation decks located on the summits of monuments.
Castelo de São Jorge
Castelo de São Jorge is a historic castle in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon. The castle hill has been inhabited since at least the eighth century BC, with the earliest walls built in the first century BC.
The Castle of São Jorge is one of Portugal’s most visited monuments. It offers the most comprehensive perspective of Lisbon from its vantage position. This location is therefore from the Tower of Ulisses, one of the most advantageous locations in the city for photographing the city, from the old district to the Monsanto forest, the Tagus River, and the Monument to Cristo Rei.
Miradouro do Elevador de Santa Justa
The Santa Justa Elevator is one of Lisbon’s most popular attractions. Apart from the excitement and curiosity generated by learning about this building built by Mesnier du Ponsard, after ascending the elevator, you’ll have access to one of the city’s most magnificent views through a spiral staircase. From the terrace of this tower, take in the magnificent view of “Pombaline Downtown,” the Castle of São Jorge, and the Tagus River.
Miradouro do Arco da Rua Augusta
The view from the top of the city’s famous triumphal arch is a must-see. To the south, it overlooks Comércio Square, while to the north, it overlooks the city’s major pedestrian street (Rua Augusta). The Rua Augusta Arch is a magnificent stone building on the Praça do Comércio that resembles a triumphal arch. It was built to commemorate the reconstruction of the city after the 1755 earthquake. The building is supported by six columns and is decorated with sculptures of different historical personalities.
Discoveries Monument
The bulk of Lisbon’s main sights (including the Jerónimos Monastery) are visible from the summit of this monument, which sits on the location of explorers’ departure into unknown territory. When you glance down, you’ll see an illustrated map of the globe following the paths of great navigators on the pavement.
Belém Tower
Belém Tower, formally the Tower of Saint Vincent, is a sixteenth-century fortress in Lisbon that functioned as a port of entry and exit for Portuguese explorers, as well as a ceremonial entrance to the city. The river and, in the distance, the ocean is visible from the top of Belém Tower. Additionally, the whole Belém area is visible, from the Belém Cultural Center to the Monument to the Discoveries.
Church and Monastery of São Vicente de Fora
A 17th-century church and monastery in Lisbon, Portugal. It is one of the most important monasteries and mannerist buildings in the nation. Additionally, the monastery is home to Portugal’s Braganza rulers’ regal pantheon. The rooftop view is one of the attractions of a visit to this monastery. From this vantage point, you can nearly touch the dome of the National Pantheon and view the whole of Alfama.
National Pantheon
The National Pantheon, which contains the tombs of notable Portuguese people. Additionally, the National Pantheon offers tourists access to its terrace (which surrounds the enormous dome), which offers views of Alfama and the river.
Basilica da Estrela
The Estrela Basilica sometimes referred to as the Royal Basilica and Monastery of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus is a minor basilica and ancient Carmelite convent in Lisbon, Portugal. The Basilica da Estrela’s rooftop is accessible to tourists, who can obtain a close-up view of the dome and bell towers, as well as a panoramic view of the surrounding area, all the way to the Amoreiras towers and the castle.
Maat
The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is a museum in Lisbon, Portugal. One of the most easily identifiable buildings in Lisbon is a unique example of modern architecture. It is accessible to walkers interested in seeing the river and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Miradouro Do Cristo Rei
From across the river at Almada, almost the whole of Lisbon is visible. The most convenient position is at the foot of the Christ Monument, which rises over the 25 de Abril Bridge.
