As Lisbon is built on seven different hills facing the Tagus river, it is the ideal location to enjoy some amazing views from above. To live this unique experience you will need to pay a visit to some of its Miradouros, the viewpoints of the city that are more often beautiful terraces where you can also have a drink or a snack and relax admiring this picturesque city. Of course to do so you will have to climp up a hill and be ready to sweat, if you are lucky there will be a tram taking you up there. A plus is that for most of the miradouros there is no entrance fee.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Probably the most famous Miradouro in the city, in Bairro Alto, with a lovely garden and an amazing view to the hill of Alfama and the castle. You can easily access it with elevador da Gloria which is actually a tram saving you from walking a steep uphill street.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Also in Bairro Alto, facing Cristo Rio statue, the port and the 25 de Abril Bridge, very relaxed atmosphere and the perfect location to enjoy a beer, especially at sunset with the background music by street musicians. Elevador da Bica will take you up there without you having to sweat.
Cristo Rei
This is not really included in the viewpoints of Lisbon as it is situated in Almada district, on the opposite side of the river but it does offer the visitor a panoramic view to the whole city and 25 de Abril bridge. To get there you need to take the ferry from Cais de Sodre to Cacilhas and then the local bus to the huge statue of Jesus Christ.
St. George’s Castle Miradouro
To access this beautiful terrace you will need to pay the entrance fee to the castle which will cost you 8,5EUR but it is really worth it as you will be able to see almost the whole city from this terrace as well as from the battlements.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
This is my favourite viewpoint in the city, a cozy balcony with a kiosk where you can enjoy your coffee watching the view of the colourful buildings and orange rooftops of Alama as well as the St. Vincent Monastery and the National Pantheon. Easily accesible by tram 28 this is one of the most photographed city views.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
A romantic terrace with a breathtaking view of the castle and the city where young couples use to watch the sunset, unfortunately only accessible by walking.
Other miradouros worth a visit are : Miradouro da Graça, Miradouro da Santa Luzia and Santa Justa Elevador.
Which one is your favourite viewpoint in Lisbon? Have you been to another city with several viewpoints?