The Best Viewpoints in Lisbon (Miradouros)

Lisbon is built on hills, which means one thing: incredible views. The city’s miradouros (viewpoints) look out over terracotta rooftops, church domes and the wide River Tagus, and most of them are free, with a little kiosk selling coffee or a cold beer. Here are the best, and when to go.

Quick answer: for the classic Alfama view, go to Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol. For the biggest panorama, climb to Senhora do Monte. For sunset with a drink, try Graça or São Pedro de Alcântara. Note: the Santa Justa lift and the Glória, Bica and Lavra funiculars are still closed in 2026.

Alfama and the castle

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

The postcard view: a pergola covered in bougainvillea, blue-and-white tiled walls, and the rooftops of Alfama tumbling down to the river. Tram 28 stops right outside. Lovely in the morning light.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

A few steps from Santa Luzia, with a wide terrace, a cafe and a view over Alfama and the white dome of the National Pantheon. One of the busiest, so come early or late.

São Jorge Castle

The castle walls give the highest views in the old town, over the Baixa, the river and the bridges, with peacocks wandering about. Tickets are €17 for adults (free for under-12s), so it’s not a cheap viewpoint, but the castle itself is worth the visit.

Graça: the highest views

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

The highest viewpoint in Lisbon, with a sweeping panorama from the castle to the bridge. Less crowded than the Alfama terraces, and magic at sunset.

Miradouro da Graça (Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen)

Under the pine trees by the Graça church, with a kiosk bar and a relaxed crowd. A favourite sunset spot for locals. Getting up the hill: tram 28, bus 734, a tuk-tuk, or the Graça funicular, which reopened in 2026.

Monte Agudo

A small, local viewpoint off the tourist trail in the Penha de França area, with a different angle over the city. Great if you want a quiet one.

Bairro Alto and Chiado

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

A two-level garden terrace looking across to the castle and Alfama, with a kiosk and often music in the evenings. With the Glória funicular closed, it’s a steep walk up from Restauradores (or approach from Príncipe Real, which is flatter).

Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastor)

West-facing views over the river and the 25 de Abril bridge, under the statue of the sea monster Adamastor. Great at sunset. It’s fenced and closes at night.

Paid viewpoints worth it

• Arco da Rua Augusta: the top of the triumphal arch on Praça do Comércio, with views down Rua Augusta and over the square. About €5.
• National Pantheon: the dome’s terrace has stunning views over Alfama and the river. Included in the ticket (about €10). Closed Mondays.
• Cristo Rei: across the river in Almada, the giant Christ statue has a viewing platform with the best view of Lisbon and the bridge. €10 for adults. Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, then a bus.
• Rooftop bars: many hotels have rooftop bars with views. See our Lisbon nightlife guide.

About the historic lifts

After the tragic Glória funicular accident in September 2025, Lisbon’s historic lifts were taken out of service for safety checks. As of autumn 2026, Santa Justa, Glória, Bica and Lavra are still closed, with no reopening date (Glória is not expected back for several years). You can still admire Santa Justa’s iron tower from the Baixa. Plan to walk, or use the metro, buses and trams. See our Lisbon public transport guide.

Tips

• Sunset is popular. Arrive 30–45 minutes early for a good spot.
• Watch your bag in crowded viewpoints. See is Lisbon safe?
• Wear good shoes. The best views come after steep, cobbled climbs.
• Combine them on a walk: Senhora do Monte, Graça, Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia are all within about 20 minutes of each other, mostly downhill in that order. Or let a tuk-tuk or a walking tour take you.

Plan the rest of your stay with our 3-day Lisbon itinerary and where to stay in Lisbon.

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