Lisbon's Best Miradouros (Viewpoints)
Built on 7 hills, the city of Lisbon is home to numerous viewpoints known locally as 'Miradouros' (lookouts).
Built on 7 hills, the city of Lisbon is home to numerous viewpoints known locally as 'Miradouros' (lookouts). These allow you to gain elevation to enjoy the finest views across Lisbon. Discover the best miradouros in Lisbon.
Miradouro de Graça
Officially named Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andrese, the Graça viewpoint is one of the most beautiful viewpoints and surely the most popular in Lisbon.
Located at the foot of the Convento de Nossa Senhora church in the Graça neighbourhood, this viewpoint offers unobstructed views over the city's rooftops, the Tagus River (also known as the sea of straw), and Lisbon's iconic monuments such as São Jorge Castle and the April 25th Bridge.
To get there, you can take the famous tram no. 28 or walk up for the more adventurous. Once at the top, you can enjoy the view while sipping a drink on the kiosk's terrace.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
The Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is an iconic viewpoint in Lisbon and one of the most popular. And it's easy to see why it attracts so many visitors! Located in the lively Bairro Alto neighbourhood, it is part of the two-tiered garden of the same name. You'll find terraces, fountains and statuettes, all creating a very romantic atmosphere.
But most importantly, you can admire the beauty of the city with unobstructed views of São Jorge Castle, the Baixa neighbourhood, and the Tagus River. You can also glimpse the famous Rossio square and Avenida da Liberdade.
A few kiosks allow you to refresh yourself and sample some local specialities.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte offers one of the highest viewpoints in Lisbon.
Located in the São Vicente (Graça) neighbourhood, on a lovely square adorned with umbrella pines in front of the Nossa Senhora do Monte chapel, it offers the finest view of São Jorge Castle dominating the city. You can also admire the Tagus River, the Baixa Pombalina neighbourhood, the Bairro Alto quarter, the Monsanto forest range and Avenida Almirante Reis.
The spot is highly appreciated for watching the sunset and taking pictures at night when the city lights sparkle with a thousand colours… It's also the perfect place to escape the crowds since access requires a bit of effort!
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
It's one of the most well-known viewpoints in Lisbon. The view from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol often appears on numerous postcards.
Located in the picturesque Alfama neighbourhood, it offers a panorama of the entire eastern part of the city: the Tagus River, the charming streets of Alfama, the Graça quarter. You can also see the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, the National Pantheon and the Church of Santo Estevão. This is where you'll get the finest sunset view of Lisbon from a viewpoint.
Good to know: the miradouro das Portas do Sol is often the venue for cultural events. With a bit of luck, you might stumble upon an exhibition or street concert!
Miradouro Santa Luzia
Located just 150 m from the miradouro das Portas do Sol, the Miradouro Santa Luzia offers a similar view, though less open, but attracts far more visitors because of its romantic setting.
Indeed, this viewpoint is characterised by a shaded garden on two levels. You can stroll under a pergola adorned with bougainvilleas while admiring the city. But there's more—you'll also find azulejo wall frescoes, including one on the façade of the Santa Luzia church, a small chapel with typical Portuguese architecture.
Because it's very popular with visitors, we recommend visiting the Miradouro Santa Luzia early in the morning or in the evening.
Miradouro Santa Catarina
Located at the top of the Bica funicular in the Bairro Alto neighbourhood, the miradouro Santa Catarina offers an enchanting view of the Tagus River, the April 25th Bridge and Christ the King statue in the background.
Again, it's an ideal spot to watch the sunset. You can sit on the square's benches or sip a drink on the kiosk's terrace. Very popular with street artists, you may even, with a bit of luck, be treated to a performance by local musicians.
As a fun fact, this viewpoint is also called l'Adamastor in reference to the mythical character of the same name created by poet Luís de Camões and represented by a statue standing in the middle of the square.
Panorâmico de Monsanto
Looking for a less-frequented viewpoint to gain elevation over the city without being overwhelmed by crowds? Head to the Panorâmico de Monsanto! Nestled on a wooded hill in the Monsanto forest park, this viewpoint is slightly removed from the city centre. That's why locals love it for its tranquillity and peaceful atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Originally, it wasn't really a miradouro but rather a restaurant. The building, constructed at 205 m altitude, is the work of architect Chaves de Costa. It was once one of Lisbon's most luxurious restaurants before being abandoned. Inside the building, you'll find some period frescoes and wall paintings as well as numerous street art works.
Beyond its unique setting, the Panorâmico de Monsanto offers one of the most beautiful 360-degree views of Lisbon.
Frequently asked questions
The Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Miradouro Santa Catarina are considered the best spots to watch the sunset in Lisbon. The former offers a view of Alfama and the Tagus River, while the latter provides a panorama of the April 25th Bridge and Christ the King statue.
Tram no. 28 is one of the most practical options for reaching several miradouros such as the one at Graça. The Bica funicular takes you to the Miradouro Santa Catarina. For the others, Carris buses or walking are recommended. Check the Carris/Metro app for real-time route information.
The Panorâmico de Monsanto and the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte are the least frequented by tourists. Their access requires a bit more effort, which makes them particularly appreciated by locals for their tranquillity and peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, the vast majority of Lisbon's miradouros are free to access at any time. Only refreshments at the kiosks or cafés on the premises are paid.
To enjoy the most popular miradouros like Santa Luzia or Portas do Sol without the crowds, visit early in the morning (before 9am) or in the evening after 7pm. The Monsanto and Senhora do Monte miradouros are naturally less crowded at all times.


