20 Incredible views, Lisbon viewpoints and rooftop bars to enjoy!
Lisbon has definitely become the talk of the town and everyone who’s everyone wants to visit if they haven’t already! A gorgeous city, wonderful weather, great food and warm and very friendly people, it’s no wonder that almost anyone visiting instantly falls head over heels in love with this gorgeous city.
What many are surprised by though, is just how hilly Lisbon is. Yes, Lisbon is in fact known as the city of 7 hills. But, whilst this may pose a challenge in terms of mobility for some, it is also one of Lisbon’s greatest assets. With these many hills come many, many exquisite viewpoints and views in Lisbon showcasing the city in an array of different angles and perspectives.
I truly believe it’s this that sets Lisbon apart from many other European city destinations. What’s better than sipping a cocktail, watching the sunset and admiring the gorgeous views of Lisbon, right?!
In this post, I’m going to feature a selection of my absolute favourite viewpoints, landmarks, as well as Rooftop bars & restaurants, all with a view that you simply have to add to your Lisbon itinerary, to make the most of your visit!
Also, be sure to read to the end to see the complete map showing exactly where each is located!
Disclaimer: this post contains links to services or products that I trust and recommend and from which I may earn commissions. Read our privacy policy for more
Before you go, be sure to plan & book your trip! | |||
Browse & Book Hotels | Browse & Book Car Rentals | ||
Browse & Book Flights | Browse & Book Buses and Trains |
Pssst…Don’t forget to read our Portugal packing list post to ensure you’ve got all your travel essentials packed and ready for your holiday to Portugal!
Looking for more inspiration for your upcoming trip to Lisbon? Be sure to check out our perfect one-day Lisbon itinerary.
Lisbon Viewpoints: Miradouros Lisboa
When scouting for the perfect Lisbon view, you would do well to head to one of the many Lisbon viewpoints (known in Portuguese as a “Miradouro”).
Many of these Lisbon Miradouros have kiosks where you can sit back, unwind and enjoy the fabulous views out over the city, whilst sipping on a drink or cocktail!
Here are some of the best Lisbon Miradouros to visit.
1. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
Location – Rua de São Pedro de Alcântara
Nestled in between the trendy neighbourhoods of Chiado and Principe Real you will find the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Offering views out over downtown Lisbon’s Avenida Liberdade and across to the Sao Jorge Castle, the Se Cathedral and the river too, this is undoubtedly one of my all-time favourites.
During the festive months (such as the Santos festival in June and over Christmas in December), they also host an array of markets, fairs and festivities at this particular viewpoint.
To get to the viewpoint you can either walk from Principe Real down the main street, Rua Dom Pedro V, or you can walk up from Chiado. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Avenida Liberdade or Praca dos Restauradores you can always catch the famous and very popular Gloria funicular up the incredibly steep hill.
Important: Do note, the Gloria tram is extremely popular and you often have to queue to get on. They also tend to squeeze as many people in as they can. Hold on to your belongings as this is ‘pickpocket’ haven!
2. Miradouro de Santa Catarina Lisbon
Location – Rua de Santa Catarina
Next on my list is the beautiful Lisbon viewpoint known as the Miradouro de Santa Catarina. Located at the end of a side-street off trendy Chiado, you may walk right past it if you don’t know otherwise.
I particularly love the views here, out over the Tagus river giving you a great vantage point and completely different perspective. It’s also a top spot from which to enjoy amazing sunsets from.
Granted, this particular Miradouro has always been regarded as a tad bit dodgy, mostly due to the fairly harmless drug dealers that hang out here trying to sell to anyone willing to buy. I should point out, this is unfortunately one of those annoying things you’ll encounter in Lisbon but as I said, they’re pretty harmless and recently the municipality completed some refurbishments and updating of the viewpoint. At night you’ll also see policemen patrol the area and then close the viewpoint from around 11pm.
So, I think it’s safe to say that the Miradouro de Santa Catarina has definitely shed its shady status and you should absolutely visit if travelling to Lisbon.
3. Miradouro Jardim do Torel
Location – Rua Júlio de Andrade
A little hidden gem, not yet discovered by the throngs of tourists that make their way to Lisbon each year, is the stunning viewpoint of Jardim do Torel, overlooking chic Avenida Liberdade and offering up a completely different view out over the city.
It’s definitely far quieter, with a couple of benches set under large trees, where you can relax, read a book and bask lazily in the Lisbon sun. Or head downstairs and grab a drink at the bar, with views of its own.
During the summer months they even turn some of the downstairs fountains into a swimming pool complete with beach sand, attracting many locals that are already in on this secret.
If you are headed to Jardim do Torel from Avenida Liberdade down below, then be sure to catch the Lavra Funicular up to the top. This is the oldest Funicular in Lisbon and definitely less crowded than the Gloria Funicular already mentioned.
4. Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Location – Largo Portas do Sol
When visiting the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon, Alfama, you no doubt have to pop over to one of my favourite views out over Alfama.
The Miradouro das Portas do Sol (or Portas do Sol Viewpoint), showcases Alfama in a truly special and unique light. The views looking out over the colourful buildings with their orange roof tiles is probably one of the most iconic shots you often see advertised of Lisbon.
Grab a drink at the kiosk and enjoy the views over Alfama whilst hearing the popular and traditional tram 28 whisks past you.
5. Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Location – Largo Santa Luzia
Just a short stroll around the corner is another gem of a Lisbon viewpoint. The Miradouro de Santa Luzia with its pergola and viewing platform adorned with gorgeous traditional Portuguese tile-work, offers up more sweeping views out over Alfama, the Tagus river and beyond.
This particular Lisbon viewpoint was also renovated not so long ago, so it’s in top nick. Definitely worthwhile visiting when exploring Alfama and surrounds.
6. Miradouro de Graça Lisbon
Location – Calçada da Graça
I have to admit, yet another of my absolute favourite viewpoints in Lisbon, has to be the Miradouro de Graca (Graca Viewpoint). Granted, due to the incredible views, this one does get quite crowded and busy, especially during the peak summer months. But I would still absolutely recommend that you do pay it a visit.
The view at this lookout point just doesn’t fail in capturing your attention and heart from first glance. Ranging from the Sao Jorge Castle on the left and sweeping across Lisbon and out over the river Tejo, this one is definitely in my top 3 views of Lisbon.
You will also find a kiosk with lots of seating, where you can grab yet another drink whilst you admire and ogle at the incredible Lisbon cityscape that lies ahead (although seating can become a problem during peak periods).
Read our post on the Best Areas to stay in, in Lisbon.
Alternatively click here to view Lisbon accommodation options through Booking.com
Landmarks & Sights with views in Lisbon:
Whilst the viewpoints listed above do offer spectacular vantage points from which to enjoy Lisbon, you may also want to pay a visit to a few of the following tourist sights and landmarks that also provide their own views of Lisbon too!
7. Santa Justa Lift
Location – Rua do Ouro, Lisbon
The Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa), which was inaugurated by King Carlos on the 31st of August in 1901 has been a symbol and icon of Lisbon for decades.
Connecting the lower downtown Baixa district to the upper Carmo Church and Carmo Square, in Chiado. The elevator is still very much in use today, and has become a top tourist attraction for the many visitors who want to take the ride up and enjoy yet more awesome views from the viewing platform up top.
Do note that this lift is very popular and it is not uncommon to arrive to a long queue of tourists waiting patiently for their turn, so get there early to avoid the crowds.
Top Tip: If you are interested in purchasing the Lisbon Card, then you will be delighted to know that the use of the Santa Justa Lift is included free of charge!
8. Rua Augusta Arch
Location – Rua Augusta 2
Undoubtedly another impressive icon and symbol of the city is the imposing Rua Augusta Arch, set at the end of the Rua Augusta street and overlook the Praca do Comercio square at the river’s edge.
But what many visitors don’t realise, is that you can actually go all the way up to the top of the arch and admire more stunning views out over downtown Baixa to the one side and towards the river on the other.
At the relatively inexpensive cost of €3 per person, a ticket up the Rua Augusta Arch is well worth it in my opinion.
9. Castelo de São Jorge
Location – Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo
Another of Lisbon’s top-rated attractions is the castle of Sao Jorge set in the Castelo neighbourhood with yet more gorgeous views out over the city.
The castle definitely does draw in its fair share of visitors annually, but I have to confess, in my personal opinion it is a tad overrated to be honest. There isn’t much by way of “castle-y” things to see here. In fact, there isn’t much of an interior and you basically just wander through the grounds. Paying €10 to get in and not seeing much, would for some feel a bit wasted.
But the one thing the castle does have going for itself is the incredible views out over the city. With all the orange rooftops, overlooking downtown Lisbon and the view across the river, you can see all the way to the 25th of April bridge and the Jesus statue on the opposite riverbank.
So, take my advice, if you absolutely have to visit, then do so, but don’t expect much more than an insanely beautiful views out over the city!
10. Viewing platform at Parque Eduardo VII
Location – Parque Eduardo VII
Parque Eduardo VII, with its perfectly manicured hedges, sloping down towards downtown Lisbon is another firm favourite to capture that perfect Lisbon city view.
From the viewing platform up top, or even across the road and further back in the Jardim Amália Rodrigues, you can awe at the stunning view leading all the way down the park, toward the Marques de Pombal statue and roundabout and out across to the river, with the castle set towards your top left view.
This is another one of my absolute favourite views in Lisbon, really giving you a sense of the city and just how compact it is.
Top Tip: If you want to escape the crowds and prefer some peace and serenity, head behind the Jardim Amália Rodriques to the Linha D’Agua café set on a small man-made lake. The perfect rest stop to grab a drink and some much-needed relaxation after a long day out sightseeing, discovering all the crazy views of Lisbon!
11. Amoreiras 360 Panoramic View
Location – Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco 2037
Next on my list is perhaps not a typical place you’d expect to find incredible views of Lisbon, but it is definitely worth checking out.
The Amoreiras 360 Panoramic View which is located in the Amoreiras shopping mall, one of the tallest buildings in Lisbon, and offers visitors 360-degree views out over the city.
Currently a trip to the top will set you back around €5 per adult, €3 per child between the ages of 6 and 16 and €3 for seniors. They do also offer a cheaper family bundle ticket.
For more info on the opening times as well as to book, visit the Amoreiras 360 View website here.
12. Pantheon Nacional
Location – Campo de Santa Clara
Heading back over to Alfama, the oldest district of Lisbon, you will find the impressive Pantheon Nacional. This 17th-century monument used to serve as a church (the church of Santa Engrácia) but was converted into the National Pantheon in 20th century and today houses the tombs of various key and prominent Portuguese figures.
When visiting the Pantheon Nacional, you can climb all the way up to the rooftop viewing platform that showcases a completely different view out over Alfama, the city and the river.
Rooftop bars & Restaurants with views of Lisbon:
Of course, no “Top Views in Lisbon” post would be complete without rounding out a couple of the best rooftop bars & restaurants too! Here are a couple of my favourites that I would happily recommend you go check out.
13. Topo Chiado
Location – Terraços do Carmo
Topo Chiado, which is just behind the Carmo Church Ruins in Chiado (right next door to the Santa Justa Elevator), is undoubtedly one of my all-time favourite rooftop bars in Lisbon, that I visit quite often I have to confess.
It has stunning views out over the city, with downtown Lisbon in the foreground, the hills of Graca, the Sao Jorge Castle, the Se Cathedral and the Santa Justa Lift, all within range. Sunsets are particularly beautiful as the sky changes colour and the view fades from day to night.
For a first time visitor, I would highly recommend you pop past Topo Chiado, grab lunch or even dinner and some drinks and soak up the glorious Lisbon views.
Top Tip: During the warmer spring and summer months, be sure to book your spot at one of the outdoor cinema screenings that take place here. Check out the CineSociety site for updated info on all the upcoming screenings. It’s a great night out, grab a drink or two and then enjoy a movie under the Lisbon stars!
14. Topo Martin Moniz
Location – Centro Comercial Martim Moniz 6 Esq, Praça Martim Moniz
Cousin to Topo Chiado, is the newer Topo Martin Moniz branch that’s set in the Martim Moniz shopping centre “Centro Comercial Martim Moniz”. It provides views out over the Martim Moniz square, the neighbourhood of Mouraria and up to the castle too.
On a side note, when we’ve visited, we did find the seating a bit more limited compared to the Chiado one. So, be sure to get there early and grab your spot, sit back and enjoy Lisbon in all its glory.
15. Noobai
Location – Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Situated by the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, Noobai is another bar & restaurant with a view overlooking the Cais do Sodre area and across the river. I have to say, we love going here often. It gives you a completely different perspective of Lisbon and is an awesome spot to enjoy stunning sunsets from too.
16. Park Bar
Location – Calçada do Combro 60
A bit of a hidden gem, Park Bar, aptly named since it is located on the rooftop of a parkade, is located in the hip Chiado. A short walk from the hustle and bustle of Praca Luis Camoes, down towards the neighbourhood of Sao Bento, you’ll be forgiven for almost missing this one.
When reaching the parking building, you’ll have to go up the lift to the top floor, and from there climb one more flight of stairs up to the rooftop.
It may seem a bit dodgy but I assure you, you will be rewarded once you get to the top. The rooftop has lots of outdoor seating space and greenery, with gorgeous views out over Chiado, the river and the 25th of April bridge.
17. Lost In
Location – Rua Dom Pedro V No 56-D
Talking of hidden gems, Lost In, is just that, almost lost in between the various buildings hugging the hill on the edge of the trendy Principe Real neighbourhood.
To get to the Lost In, you need to pass through a small narrow archway / passage to get to the main entrance. Once there, there is an indoor restaurant, but, head outside to the outdoor seating area and be prepared to be blown away.
A chilled atmosphere awaits, couple with colourful and vibrant Indian inspired furnishings that really ads to the charm and personality of the place. Not to mention the views that are to die for and definitely worth a visit on your trip to Lisbon.
18. Sky Bar – Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Hotel
Location – Av. da Liberdade 185
If you are after a stylish and trendy alternative, then the Sky Bar at the 5* Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Hotel is definitely the place to be seen. Set up top the 9th floor of the hotel and overlooking much of downtown Lisbon, the Sky Bar has been a firm favourite rooftop bar for some time. For me, this place really comes alive at night when the city lights start lighting up the city, offering dazzling views.
Be sure to head over for an amazing sunset over the city whilst enjoying the vibe and music by a resident DJ. Do take note that this rooftop bar does have a casual chic dress code and flip flops and beachwear are not allowed.
19. Bar Terraço Limão – H10 Duque de Loulé Hotel
Location – Av. Duque de Loulé 81-83 Located on the 10th floor of the 4* H10 Duque de Loulé Hotel, close by to Marques Pombal and Avenida Liberdade is the Limão Bar offer yet more exquisite Lisbon views. The rooftop has both an indoor and outdoor section with comfy sofas and seating arrangements.
I really love the décor of this bar, done up in whites and blues echoing the colours of the traditional Portuguese ceramics and tile-works. Be sure to get here early as space is limited, but you will no doubt be awarded with spectacular views out over the city. The perfect spot to end a long day of sightseeing.
20. Rossio Gastrobar – Altis Avenida Hotel
Location – Rua 1 de Dezembro 118
Last but not least, and rounding out our hotel rooftop bars, is the Rossio Gastrobar set in the 5* Altis Avenida Hotel, a recently renovated hotel inspired by the chic 1940’s and located in downtown Lisbon. Situated on the top floor of the hotel, the Rossio Gastrobar offers sweeping & panoramic views out over downtown Lisbon and Rossio Square. Not only can you sit back and enjoy a drink, but you can also savour some of the delights conjured up by resident chef João Rodrigues.
Conclusion:
I have to admit, I may have used one too many superlatives in this article, but with so many incredible viewpoints and views in Lisbon, it’s hard not to.
Whether you’re wanting to snap that perfect Lisbon shot, do some sightseeing whilst also enjoying the view or simply want to head to the nearest and best rooftop bar, Lisbon has it all, and then some.
I have no doubt in my mind that you will absolutely fall head over heels in love with this beautiful city, and even more so after exploring some of these amazing views of Lisbon!