It’s hardly a secret that Lisbon is regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Set against the cobalt blue backdrop of the Tagus River, Western Europe’s oldest city is seemingly permanently drenched in the warm sunshine – your Instagram filters are unnessary here! With that said, some spots are more photogenic than others, so to make sure you capture Lisbon at its best angle take a closer look at our guide to six of the best views in the Portuguese capital…
The King of the Castle
Sao Jorge Castle – Image via Wikimedia
There’s no better place to start than on the highest hill in Lisbon, home to Sao Jorge Castle. Set overlooking Alfama (the oldest of the city’s many neighbourhoods), the castle’s walls can be seen from pretty much everywhere in the city. From the top of the towers and the ramparts, you should even be able to pick out the areas of city that were levelled as a consequence of the Great Lisbon earthquake of 1755.
Drinks at Sundown
Head to the top floor of the five-star Tivoli Lisboa Hotel on the bustling Avenida da Liberdade and you’ll find the super stylish Sky Bar. One of the city’s trendier hangouts, the elegant terrace bar is ideal for enjoying evening views of the capital with a cocktail in hand.
The Big Tourist Attraction
Santa Justa Elevator – Image via Wikimedia
Take a ride up the historic Santa Justa Elevator, climb the spiral staircase and you’ll be treated to almost 360-degree vista from the famed neo-Gothic lift. Beginning from the Rossio Square directly below, you’ll be able to gaze past downtown and all the way to the northern districts in the distance, making this one tourist attraction you should go out of your way to experience.
Brilliant Basilica
Basílica da Estrela – Image by tetedelart1855 via Flickr
With its convenient central location, the Basílica da Estrela (or Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus) makes for another must-see for sightseers. The beauty of the inside of the neoclassical church is only matched by the stunning views of the city available to those who climb to the top of the sugar-white rococo dome.
The Secret Spot
Águas Livres Aqueduct – Image via Wikimedia
Something of a hidden gem, visitors to the 18th-century Águas Livres Aqueduct get to enjoy alternative panoramic views of the city whilst strolling along the kilometre long ‘passeios dos arcos’ walkways. Unobstructed views of the nearby Monsanto Park, the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge and the Tagus River definitely makes the trip to Campolide one to remember.
A Room with a View
To the west of the city lies the district of Belém and the sophisticated Altis Belem Hotel & Spa, a five-star riverside hotel boasting top-notch views of its many surrounding sites. We can certainly see the appeal in waking up to sensational views of the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument – all from the vantage point of your room’s private balcony!
Head to Lisbon for these views and more! Flights | Holidays | Hotels
Know any other picture-perfect spots for those heading to Lisbon? Make sure you leave a comment below!
Front page feature image credits:
Image by Pedro Ribeiro Simões via Flickr
