MY PLACE FOR YOU
VOTRE MAISON À LISBONNE
Our Selection of favorite places to visit
Welcome to Lisbon, the city of seven hills, endless sunshine, and rich cultural heritage. This guide presents our favorite places to go in Lisbon, from historic landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods and stunning viewpoints. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just here for the Instagrammable views, this guide will help you take the most advantage of your trip to Lisbon.
01
Jerónimos Monastery
Commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India. It housed monks of the Order of Saint Jerome, who provided spiritual guidance to sailors.
A masterpiece of Manueline architecture, featuring intricate carvings, stunning cloisters, and the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
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Address: Praça do Império, Lisboa
02
Belém Tower
Built in 1515 during the Age of Discoveries, Belém Tower was originally a fortress to defend Lisbon’s harbor. It later became a customs control point and a political prison. Now, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A stunning Manueline-style fortress sitting along the Tagus River. A must-visit for history lovers and photographers. You'll need to take a breathe to climb the narrow spiral staircase to the tower, which affords sublime views over Belém and the river.
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Address: Av. Brasília, Lisboa​
03
Praça do Comércio
Formerly the site of the Royal Palace before the 1755 earthquake, this square was rebuilt as the grand entrance to the city.
One of Europe’s most beautiful squares, featuring impressive yellow buildings, the Arco da Rua Augusta, and a scenic riverfront promenade.
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Address: Praça do Comércio, Lisboa​​
04
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
The best view of Lisbon. A historic viewpoint that has been a hidden gem for centuries, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Lisbon.
Known for its quiet atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, this is the perfect spot to admire the city’s skyline.At night the view of the castle and the harbour are wonderful.
Take the opportunity to visit the Graça and SãoVicente neighbourhoods.
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Address: Rua da Senhora do Monte, Lisboa​
05
Castelo de São Jorge
Originally built by the Moors in the 11th century, this castle was later captured by Christian forces in 1147. It became a royal residence before being repurposed as a military fortification.
Located on a hilltop offering stunning panoramic views of the city.
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Address: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, Lisboa​
06
Baixa and Santa Justa Lift
Baixa is the most central and renowned neighborhood in Lisbon. It was completely rebuilt by the Marquis of Pombal after the earthquake that destroyed part of the city in the eighteenth century. There you will find the Santa Justa lift built in 1902 by a student of Gustave Eiffel ​(see the similarities to the Eiffel Tower), this iron lift connects the Baixa district to the Carmo Square.
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Take the ride to the top for great views of the river, castle and Praça do Rossio. If there is a long queue you can walk from the bottom of the Santa Justa lift to the top. It should take no more than five minutes.
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Address: Rua do Ouro, Lisboa​
07
Bairro Alto and Chiado
Chiado and Bairro Alto represent Lisbon at its most bohemian and alternative.
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Chiado is Lisbon’s most sophisticated and artistic district, it has long been a meeting place for intellectuals, writers, and artists.
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Perched above Chiado, Bairro Alto transforms as the sun sets into Lisbon’s most energetic nightlife district. By day, it has a relaxed, residential feel, but by night, it becomes a hotspot for bars, live music, and Fado performances.​​
08
Alfama District
One of the only neighborhoods to survive the 1755 earthquake, Alfama was originally settled by the Moors. It later became a working-class district.
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Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest and most authentic district, a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic houses, and breathtaking viewpoints. This neighbourhood, perched on a hillside between São Jorge Castle and the Tagus River, is the heart of Fado music, Moorish heritage, and traditional Portuguese life.​​
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09
Oceanário de Lisboa
Opened in 1998 for the Expo ‘98, this is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and is dedicated to ocean conservation.
A must-visit for marine life enthusiasts, featuring a central tank with sharks, rays, and other fascinating creatures.​
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Address: Esplanada D. Carlos I, Lisboa​
10
River Tagus and the MAAT Museum
Opened in 2016, MAAT is housed in a futuristic, wave-like building designed by British architect Amanda Levete. Its curved, tiled roof reflects sunlight and offers a panoramic terrace where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the river and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
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A visit to MAAT combined with a riverfront walk is a perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, capturing the essence of modern and historic Lisbon.
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Address: Av. Brasília, Lisboa​​
11
Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
The Palácio da Ajuda is a magnificent neoclassical palace that served as the official residence of the Portuguese royal family in the 19th century. Originally conceived in the late 18th century after the 1755 earthquake, it became the primary royal residence under King Luís I and Queen Maria Pia, who enriched its lavish interiors with exquisite furniture, tapestries, chandeliers, and artwork, creating one of the most elegant palaces in Portugal.
Today, Palácio da Ajuda functions as a museum, showcasing the grandeur of the Portuguese monarchy, and also serves as the official venue for state ceremonies.​
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Address: Largo da Ajuda, Lisboa​
12
Sintra - Pena Palace
Palácio da Pena, perched atop the hills of Sintra, is one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Romanticism.
The palace’s vibrant red and yellow exterior, extravagant domes, turrets, and intricate tilework make it look like something out of a fantasy. Surrounding the palace, the Parque da Pena is a vast, mystical forest filled with exotic plants, hidden pathways, and breathtaking viewpoints, offering visitors a magical journey into the past.
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Address: Estrada da Pena, Sintra​​
13
Sintra - Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira, located in Sintra, is Portugal’s most enchanting and mysterious estate. The Regaleira Palace, with its intricate façade and lavish interiors, is a highlight, but the estate’s true allure lies in its gardens—an otherworldly landscape filled with hidden tunnels, grottos, and the Initiation Well, a spiral staircase leading underground, believed to represent a symbolic journey of rebirth. Every corner of Quinta da Regaleira tells a story, making it not just a beautiful site but an immersive experience into Portugal’s romantic and mystical past.​
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Address: Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra​
14
Sintra - National Palace
The Palácio Nacional de Sintra is the best-preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal and a symbol of Sintra’s Moorish and Manueline heritage. Dating back to the 10th century, when it was a Moorish palace, it was later expanded and transformed by Portuguese kings, particularly during the 14th to 16th centuries. Its distinctive twin conical chimneys, which dominate the town’s skyline, are a hallmark of its unique architecture.
Inside, the palace features opulent azulejo-covered halls, such as the Sala dos Cisnes (Swan Room) and the Sala dos Brasões (Coat of Arms Room), showcasing Portugal’s rich artistic traditions.
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Address: Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, Sintra​​
