Jardim Botanico de Ajuda (Ajuda Botanical Garden), Lisbon

The oldest botanical garden in Portugal, established in 1768 by the Italian botanist Domenico Vandelli (1735–1816), offers a tranquil setting to enjoy for approximately an hour, providing a welcome escape from the bustling outskirts of Belém. Originally commissioned by the Marquês de Pombal and once owned by the royal family until the Republic was established in 1910, the garden underwent significant restoration in the 1990s.

Within the garden, you'll find elaborate fountains and graceful peacocks, creating an atmosphere of grandeur. Spanning an area of 4 acres, several greenhouses house approximately 5,000 plant species from Africa, Asia, and America, each labeled with their Latin names. Noteworthy attractions include the 400-year-old dragon tree, native to Madeira, and the striking 18th-century fountain adorned with serpents, winged fish, sea horses, and mythical creatures. From a majestic terrace, visitors can enjoy views of the lower level of the gardens, as well as the scenic vistas of the Tagus River, the 25th of April Bridge, and the historic Belém area of Lisbon.

Tip:
Just opposite the Jerónimos Monastery ("Mosterio dos Jerónimos"), at the bottom of the hill, you'll find the larger Tropical Botanical Garden ("Jardim Botânico Tropical"), created at a later date. This expansive garden showcases hundreds of plant species from the Azores, Madeira, and Portugal's former colonies.