The Augusta Street Arch, located in Lisbon’s Commerce Plaza, is a historical landmark symbolizing the city’s reconstruction after the devastating 1755 earthquake. Originally envisioned as a bell tower, its design evolved into a grand triumphal arch over more than a century. The structure boasts six 11-meter-tall columns and a rich display of Portuguese historical and cultural motifs.

Atop the arch, a sculptural group symbolizes Glory bestowing laurel leaves upon Valor and Genius, alongside a bell that can be rung. The centerpiece, Glory, stands 7 meters tall, dressed in classical peplos, holding two crowns. Valor is personified by an Amazon figure with dragon-emblazoned armor, representing the Portuguese Royal House of Braganza. Genius, accompanied by a statue of Jupiter and symbols of writing and art, completes the trio. The arch’s height necessitated colossal proportions for these statues, enhancing their visual impact.

Four additional statues stand over the columns, honoring key figures in Portuguese history: the 14th-century general Nuno Álvares Pereira, 18th-century statesman Marquis of Pombal, Medieval Portuguese navigator and explorer Vasco da Gama, and Viriatus, a Lusitanian leader who fought against the Romans in the 2nd century BC. Reclining figures below symbolize the rivers Tagus and Douro, while inscriptions celebrate the Portuguese Empire's grandeur and achievements, including the phrase “To the Virtues of the Greatest, so that it may serve as a lesson to all. Dedicated at public expense.”

Since 2013, visitors can ascend the arch to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon. A lift takes visitors most of the way, with additional steep stairs and stop-and-go traffic lights managing congestion. Informative displays on landings detail the arch’s history and the development of the area, including the story of an old clock.

Tip:
If you have the Lisbon Card, admission is free, and credit cards are accepted.
It's advisable to go early to avoid both the scorching heat and the crowds.

Commerce Square in Lisbon is a landmark of historical and architectural significance. Spanning 30,600 square meters, this plaza is situated along the Tagus River and was once the site of the Royal Palace of Ribeira, which was destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. This catastrophe also obliterated the royal archive, containing over 200,000 books and centuries of records.

The area's reconstruction was spearheaded by the Marquis of Pombal as part of his revitalization of the Baixa district. The result was a U-shaped layout with symmetrical government buildings flanking the square and opening towards the river. Its new occupants, customs and port authorities, gave rise to the square's new name – "Commerce." The design included ground-floor arcades and two towers inspired by the former Ribeira Palace.

At the center of the square stands an equestrian statue of King José I, unveiled in 1775. The statue honors the King’s role in rebuilding Lisbon and features motifs such as an elephant, symbolizing Portugal's colonial empire.

The plaza’s northern side is marked by the triumphal Augusta Street Arch. Completed in the 19th century, this arch celebrates Lisbon's resilience with sculptures of historical figures such as Vasco da Gama and the Marquis of Pombal.

Adjacent to the square is the Columns Pier. Its marble steps once served as a ceremonial entrance to the city during Portugal’s maritime era.

Tragedy touched the square in 1908 when King Carlos I and his heir Luís Filipe were assassinated here. This event presaged the fall of the Portuguese monarchy and the establishment of the Republic in 1910. Today, a plaque commemorates this pivotal moment in Portuguese history.

The western tower of Commerce Square contains a branch of the Museum of Lisbon.

The square itself is a vibrant hub of activity. Its arcades house souvenir shops, cafes, and Lisbon’s oldest café, Martinho da Arcada. Commerce Square hosts annual events like Portugal Day celebrations and offers visitors a chance to enjoy views of the Tagus River, the 25th of April Bridge, and passing ships. Accessible via trams and ferries, the plaza is both a historic site and a bustling meeting point for locals and tourists.

Tip:
For a glimpse of what the square looked like before the 1755 earthquake, you can find reproductions of contemporary engravings from the 17th and 18th centuries and a modern ceramic tile mural at the Santa Luzia Viewpoint in Alfama.

Saint George’s Castle is a historic fortress in Lisbon’s Santa Maria Maior district. Its hilltop location has been occupied since the 8th century BC, with fortifications dating back to the 2nd century BC. Over time, the site reflected influences from the Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. The Berbers added the so-called “Moorish Encirclement” walls in the 10th century, and the Moors held the castle until the Christian Reconquista.

The castle played a pivotal role during the 1147 Siege of Lisbon when it was captured in a major Second Crusade victory. This fortified stronghold became a royal residence in 1255 and was named after Saint George in the 14th century by King John I to symbolize ties with England. In the later period, it served as a military barracks and home to Portugal’s National Archive. Although damaged in the 1755 earthquake, the 20th-century restorations regained its prominence as a national monument and cultural site.

Within this castle complex, you'll find medieval architecture with ten towers, a dry moat, and steep hillsides for natural defense. Highlights include the terraced Arms Square with cannons and a statue of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, and the Tower of Ulysses, which houses a camera obscura offering shows (every 20 minutes) in various languages, including English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The citadel's primary entrance features a 19th-century gate adorned with Portugal's coat of arms, Queen Maria II's name, and the date 1846.

Inside, visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, a wine bar, an ice cream stand, and public restrooms. Peacocks roam freely throughout the grounds, particularly in one of the primary dining areas. While dining within the castle walls may be slightly pricier than in the surrounding areas, it is not excessively so. Alternatively, you have the option of bringing your own food and beverages. Admission is reasonably priced and children enter for free.

Saint George’s Castle also includes the ruins of a royal palace, such as the Casa Ogival, which is now home to the Olissipónia multimedia exhibit detailing Lisbon’s history. Gardens and historical artifacts enhance the experience, making the castle a symbol of Lisbon’s rich past and an essential cultural landmark.

Tip:
Although the journey to the castle involves a steep uphill climb, it provides a delightful stroll through the narrow streets of historic Lisbon, with numerous opportunities to stop and savor local cuisine. Alternatively, you can take cable car #28 to admire the neighborhood's charming and diverse architecture, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The Grace Viewpoint in Lisbon is a celebrated vantage point situated atop the southern slope of Santo André Hill. It offers panoramic views of the city's historic center stretching, on clear days, to the Tagus River estuary.

This viewpoint is not only a daytime delight but also a magical evening spot as the setting sun casts a golden hue over Lisbon and the city lights begin to twinkle. The atmosphere here is perpetually vibrant, enhanced by performances from local musicians and singers, while the adjacent Esplanada da Graça café remains abuzz with activity.

Though many tourists stop at this viewpoint, they often overlook nearby attractions such as the expansive Grace Convent, noted for its exquisite tile paintings and baroque architecture. Other local sights include the 19th-century Villa Sousa and the serene Cerca Park Garden, with a quaint fountain and a bronze sculpture, positioned below the viewpoint.

From here, visitors can enjoy a 160-degree view encompassing central and western Lisbon. To the southwest, prominent visible landmarks include Saint George's Castle, the Carmo Church ruins, and the April 25 bridge. The viewpoint also overlooks the Mouraria neighborhood and Martim Moniz plaza and offers glimpses of distant sites like the Monsanto Forest and the Amoreiras Towers.

Despite its common designation as the Grace viewpoint, its official title "Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen" honors the esteemed 20th-century Portuguese poet revered for her fairy tales and the official Portuguese translations of Shakespeare. Her affinity for this location, where she drew much inspiration, led to its renaming following her death in 2004 and is now marked by a bust near the Grace Convent entrance.

This viewpoint frequently marks the conclusion of a journey for those ascending the hill from Alfama and Saint George's Castle. The series of steps leading to it are paved with traditional cobblestone designs.

For an elevated cityscape experience, make your way up to the Lady of the Mount viewpoint, a somewhat undiscovered gem among Lisbon's "miradouros", despite its distinction as the highest. From this serene square shaded by pine trees, you'll be treated to a captivating panoramic vista of the entire city. This locale is particularly cherished by avid photographers seeking the perfect shots of the charming old districts of Mouraria, the São Jorge Castle, downtown Lisbon, the Carmo Convent, Monsanto, the Tagus River estuary with the "Sea of Straw" near its mouth, and even farther horizons.

Another noteworthy attraction here, known to the initiated, is the chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, or "Nossa Senhora do Monte." The original chapel, erected in 1147, succumbed to the ravages of an earthquake in 1755 and was replaced by the current structure in the late 1700s. This chapel is renowned for its protective association with women during childbirth, drawing expectant mothers in search of divine blessings. Nearby, you'll find a small statue of the Virgin.

Adding to the charm of the place, there's an ancient wall adorned with the inscription: "Boa viagem. Lisboa espera por ti," which translates to "Have a nice trip! Lisbon awaits you." The tiles on this wall carry the echoes of a bygone era, reminiscent of a time when Portugal was the land of explorers, emigrants, and soldiers.

Why You Should Pay a Visit:
This is one of Lisbon's less-traveled viewpoints, yet it claims the title of the highest, offering some of the most breathtaking city views. It's an ideal spot for capturing memorable photographs. While there isn't a permanent café on-site, you can usually find mobile vendors serving coffee, adult beverages, and snacks, often with more interesting options than the standard kiosk offerings.

The Glória Funicular, also known as the Glória Lift, is a historic funicular railway in Lisbon's Santo António parish. Instead of viewing this as merely a tourist attraction, consider it an extraordinary engineering achievement!

The funicular connects Restorers Square in the downtown Pombaline district to the Bairro Alto neighborhood, specifically the Saint Peter of Alcântara Garden and Viewpoint. Operating on a counterweight principle, the system features two partially wooden streetcars linked by a cable, enabling simultaneous ascent and descent. Uniquely, electric motors on the cars, powered by overhead wires, provide traction.

The funicular's history dates back to 1875 when the New Lisbon Mechanical Lift Company received a concession to build it. Construction began in 1882, and the lift opened on 24 October 1885. Initially water-powered, it switched to steam by 1886 and then to electricity in 1915. The original design included two-tiered cars with seating arranged back-to-back on the upper floor and inward-facing benches on the lower.

In 1995, the line's operator proposed its heritage classification, leading to its designation as a National Monument two years later.

The funicular operates on a 17.7% slope of about 900 feet (or 270 meters). The inclined trams are designed for passenger comfort, with longitudinally arranged seats to maintain a level perspective. The tram journey typically lasts about 2-3 minutes, while an on-foot descent along the track takes anywhere between 5 and 8 minutes, depending on one's age and physical stamina.

Whatever you choose, the route will pass through one of Lisbon's finest showcases of neighborhood graffiti, predominantly on the right side (when going uphill), as this built-up 19th-century area is officially dedicated to sanctioned street art. Additionally, it features landmarks like the Foz Palace and the Misericórdia district.

Today, the Glória Funicular remains a cherished piece of Lisbon's history and an entertaining mode of public transportation, particularly for those unfamiliar with the charm of funicular trams. There are excellent photo opportunities from the summit, making it an excellent point for exploring the Bairro Alto neighborhood.

The Garden of Saint Peter of Alcantara is a picturesque viewpoint in central Lisbon, offering panoramic views of the Baixa and Mouraria neighborhoods, with the iconic Saint George's Castle prominently in sight.

Divided into two terraces, the garden caters to diverse experiences. The upper terrace features a lively atmosphere with musicians, pop-up bars, and a charming fountain alongside a monument to Eduardo Coelho, founder of the local Daily News paper, and a statue of a newsboy, reflecting Bairro Alto’s printing heritage. In contrast, the lower terrace offers a serene retreat, adorned with flower beds, sculptures of Greek and Roman figures like Minerva and Ulysses, and a small waterfall.

Historically, the garden traces its roots to a 17th-century aqueduct project, later interrupted by the 1755 earthquake. The centerpiece Baroque fountain, relocated from Bemposta Palace, adds to its historical charm. The garden acts as a crossroads, linking the historic Baixa district, the upscale Príncipe Real and the lively Bairro Alto neighborhoods, blending elements of history, class, and social vibrancy.

Visitors can relax on benches, enjoy local music, or indulge in food and drinks from nearby stalls. Across the street, the Port Wine Institute offers over 300 varieties of Port wine, perfect for a cozy tasting or a waterside picnic. Dynamic street art at the Urban Art Gallery adds a contemporary flair.

Accessibility is enhanced by the Glória Lift, a vintage funicular connecting the garden to Restorers Square, bypassing a steep hill. The traditional Miradouro bar and the nearby Lumi Rooftop offer further refreshment and dining options. A unique 1952 tile map in the garden helps visitors identify Lisbon’s landmarks, enhancing their exploration of the city.

With its blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, the Garden of Saint Peter of Alcantara is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Lisbon.

Prepare yourself for a brief wait at this remarkable gem nestled in Lisbon's vibrant Bairro Alto neighborhood, but rest assured, the wait will prove to be entirely worthwhile. A diverse and extensive menu of traditional Portuguese delicacies awaits, boasting generous portions that are sure to satisfy your appetite. The atmosphere exudes a vibrant and lively energy, creating a memorable dining experience.

Should all the tables be occupied, fear not, for you can opt to perch at the bar and enjoy a splendid time observing the skilled staff as they prepare each dish. The culinary offerings here are a testament to culinary artistry, with standout options including succulent grilled squid, flavorful small prawns bathed in garlic-infused oil, chorizo accompanied by crispy chips, and the sublime cod served with smashed potatoes and drizzled with olive oil. Moreover, when it comes time to settle the bill, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the reasonable prices for such exceptional quality.

A prominent feature on Lisbon's skyline, this magnificent basilica shines in pristine white, showcasing a blend of late-Baroque and Neo-Classical architectural styles. Perched atop one of Lisbon's seven hills, it offers breathtaking views from its grand rococo dome. Constructed in the late 18th century, it was commissioned by Queen Maria I as a fulfillment of her religious vow, made in hopes of bearing a male heir (although her son José tragically passed away from smallpox before the church's completion in 1790).

The façade is adorned with twin bell towers and adorned with statues of saints and allegorical figures, while the spacious interior is equally impressive. Clad in intricate geometric patterns of grey, pink, and yellow marble, it is considered one of the most beautiful examples of European church interiors. Natural light streams through the pierced dome, creating quite the atmosphere. In the right transept, you'll find the elaborately decorated Empire-style tomb of Queen Maria I, who passed away in Brazil. Not far away, you can discover Machado de Castro's renowned and intricately detailed nativity scene, comprised of over 500 cork and terracotta figures (be sure to ask the sacristan for access).

Tip:
Climb the steep stone steps of the dome to reach the flat roof above, where you'll be rewarded with splendid views of the western city and a unique perspective of the basilica below.

The Hieronymites (or "Jerónimos") Monastery was built in 1601 to commemorate the historic journey of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama and to express gratitude to the Virgin Mary for his pioneering achievement as the first European to reach India by sea. Construction spanned precisely a century, after which it was entrusted to the San Jerónimo order, whose mission was to offer prayers for the King and provide guidance to sailors embarking on voyages to uncover new sea routes and lands. In 1983, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Monument, serving as an enduring symbol of Portugal's power and affluence during the Age of Discovery.

Featuring the finest examples of what came to be known as Manueline style, the monastery encompasses various elements that were pivotal during the Golden Age of the rapidly expanding Portuguese Empire. These include intricate nautical motifs, such as ropes and compasses, carved into the pastel-colored limestone. Notable architectural features encompass the remarkable double-layered cloister, ornate arches that encircle the cloister's open passageway, the Church of Santa Maria, adorned with a fitting statue of Saint Mary atop its imposing southern portal, the monastery's refectory, the Lion Fountain located outside, and the final resting place of Portugal's eminent poets, explorers, monarchs, and statesmen. From Vasco da Gama to Luís de Camões, and from King Manuel I to the leading modernist, Fernando Pessoa, all these elements and more make it well worth dedicating a separate visit of at least 2 to 3 hours.

Why You Should Visit:
Unexpected beauty for a monastery! One could easily spend hours admiring the intricate stone decorations. Even during peak visitor times, it maintains a sense of spaciousness, and there's an excellent exhibit providing explanations in both Portuguese and English.

Tip:
When facing the main entrance, the ticket queue is located on the LEFT. Alternatively, consider purchasing a 'joint' ticket at the nearby Archaeological Museum, which costs €2 more but provides access to both the monastery and the museum. This can save you time by bypassing the often lengthy queue for the 'monastery-only' ticket.

Accessed via a narrow pathway extending into the river, the Tower of Belém stands as an impressive symbol of Lisbon and holds the distinction of being a designated World Heritage Site. It represents one of Portugal's purest examples of Manueline architecture, a style prevalent during the reign of King Manuel I. Its windows and staircases are adorned with arches and decorative motifs that commemorate Portugal's explorations in the New World.

Originally constructed as a fortress on what was once an island in the middle of the Tagus River, its purpose was to safeguard the entrance to the port. The construction spanned five years and was completed in 1520. Today, the striking chalk-white tower stands near the river's northern bank, a testament to the shifting of the river's course following the earthquake of 1755.

Present-day visitors have the freedom to explore the tower's different levels, which include a terrace facing the river, once a vantage point for artillery firing. Ascending a steep spiral staircase spanning four levels, each offering a unique framed view of the river, brings you to a top terrace that provides a breezy panorama of Belém. You can also venture into the dungeons, a low-ceilinged chamber originally used for storing gunpowder, and later notorious for housing political prisoners during the 19th century under rule Dom Miguel's rule.

Tip:
The biggest draw here is ascending to the summit via the spiral staircase. Unless you're fortunate enough to find a short queue upon arrival, it's advisable to appreciate the tower's exterior garden rather than spending an extended period waiting to enter. However, if you are determined to explore the interior, it's recommended to purchase your ticket in advance online or from a kiosk located in the nearby park. Using a Lisbon Card may still require you to stand in line like everyone else, but at least you won't need to pay the admission fee!