The Mediterranean Insider

Lisbon, Portugal

How to see Lisbon’s 10 most famous sights with fresh eyes

The Mediterranean • See & do • How to see Lisbon’s 10 most famous sights with fresh eyes

An insider’s guide to the must-see sights in Lisbon

Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is one of those cities that stays with you long after you leave. Its golden light, the rhythm of the trams, the scent of fresh pastries drifting through the air – it all creates a kind of magic. But when you’re visiting its most famous sights, it’s easy to fall into the usual tourist routine, snapping the same photos and following the same paths. What if you could experience them differently? This guide is all about seeing Lisbon’s top landmarks with fresh eyes. Whether it’s your first visit or you already know Lisbon’s seven hills by heart, these ideas will help you connect with the city in a new way. Because Lisbon isn’t just about what you see – it’s about how you see it. Let’s go beyond the postcards and experience the city like it’s the first time, every time.

Top photography courtesy of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Set above the bustling streets of the city, Miradouro de Santa Catarina immediately draws you in with its relaxed vibe and unobstructed views. Most people come here for the sweeping views over the Tagus River, but instead of just snapping a photo, bring a small picnic or grab a drink from one of the kiosks. Join the locals lounging on the steps or head to the adjacent Noobai Café for a more relaxed, less crowded vantage point. At sunset, watch street musicians bring the space to life and if you stay after dark, you’ll see Lisbon twinkling below.

Miradouro de Santa Catarina
R. de Santa Catarina
Lisboa
Portugal

Museu Nacional do Azulejo

Dive into Portugal’s soul at the Museu Nacional do Azulejo. Museu Nacional do Azulejo is housed in the historic Madre de Deus Convent and was formally established to preserve the art of the Portuguese tile. Its collection spans from the 15th century to modern times, documenting the evolution of azulejos in both decorative and functional contexts. Everyone admires the famous panoramic tile panel of Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake, but don’t miss the quirky modern azulejos tucked away in the collection. And make sure to stop by the convent church inside – it’s one of the most stunning hidden gems in the city.

Museu Nacional do Azulejo
R. Me. Deus 4
Lisboa
Portugal

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos stands as a powerful symbol of Portugal’s maritime history and the Age of Discoveries. This Unesco World Heritage site, built in the early 16th century, showcases the distinctive Manueline architectural style with its intricate carvings and nautical motifs. Most people rush through this Manueline masterpiece, but the secret to truly experiencing it is to slow down. Pay attention to the intricate stone carvings – spot the sea creatures, ropes and exotic plants woven into the architecture. Instead of just breezing past Vasco da Gama’s tomb, take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the church’s acoustics. If you go early, you’ll beat the crowds and feel the stillness that makes this place truly magical.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Praça do Império
Lisboa
Portugal

Castelo de São Jorge

Castelo de São Jorge is built on Lisbon’s highest hill and has origins dating back to the 11th century. Historically used as a defensive fortification, the castle has served various roles – from a Moorish stronghold to a royal residence – until it was transformed into a public monument. Many people don’t realise there’s an archaeological site inside, with remains dating back to the 7th century BC. Don’t stick only to the main terraces, instead wander through the quieter gardens, where peacocks roam freely and find a peaceful spot along the ancient walls. If you visit in the late afternoon, you’ll get golden light hitting the city below – perfect for photographers.

Castelo de São Jorge
R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo
Lisboa
Portugal

Tram 28

Tram 28 has been operating since the early 20th century and is a tourist favourite, but it can be unbearably crowded. This tram line follows a fixed path through some of Lisbon’s most historically significant neighbourhoods, including Alfama, Baixa and Graça. The full route has several stops along the way, where you can stop by centuries-old churches, bustling markets and hidden viewpoints. To enjoy it without the crush, ride it early in the morning or late at night when it’s quieter. Alternatively, skip the full route and use it like a local – hop on for just a short stretch where you can observe the interior, with its preserved wooden seats and iron fittings that illustrate the craftsmanship of the early 1900s.

Tram 28
Praça Martim Moniz 577
Lisboa
Portugal

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Padrão dos Descobrimentos stands proudly as a tribute to the daring explorers who charted unknown territories. Erected in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Prince Henry the Navigator’s birth, Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a modern monument dedicated to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. The structure was designed by architect Cottinelli Telmo and features a series of statues representing key historical figures involved in maritime exploration. Rather than just viewing this monument from the land, consider seeing it from the water. A boat ride along the Tagus offers a unique angle on this towering tribute. If you do visit on foot, time it for late afternoon – the shadows cast by the sculpted figures create a dramatic effect.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Av. Brasília
Lisboa
Portugal

Santa Justa Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator is a striking piece of urban engineering that connects downtown Lisbon with the bohemian Bairro Alto. The Santa Justa Elevator was inaugurated in 1902 and designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, whose work was influenced by the engineering techniques of Gustave Eiffel. The ride offers panoramic views of the city below, turning a simple ascent into an intimate look at Lisbon’s architectural evolution. Informative plaques along the way provided insights into its history and design. Most visitors wait in long lines to ride the lift, but here’s a trick – instead of queuing at the bottom, walk around to Largo do Carmo and enter the viewing platform from the upper level (for free). You’ll still get the epic views without the hassle. If you do want the experience of the historic lift, go early in the morning before the crowds descend.

Santa Justa Elevator
R. de Santa Justa
Lisboa
Portugal

Torre de Belém

At Torre de Belém, history stands tall by the river’s edge. Torre de Belém was constructed between 1514 and 1520 under the reign of King Manuel I and is a prime example of the Manueline style. Originally built as a defensive fortification at the mouth of the Tagus River, the tower was designed to guard Lisbon’s harbour and facilitate maritime exploration. As you walk through the narrow passageways, you’ll find intricate stone carvings and exhibits that document the tower’s construction and historical significance. For an alternative perspective, visit during high tide when the tower appears to be floating in the water – it’s much more atmospheric than when the river is low.

Torre de Belém
Av. Brasília
Lisboa
Portugal

Praça do Comércio

Yes, this grand square is an obvious stop, but few people take the time to explore its hidden corners. Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, is one of Lisbon’s largest and most historically significant squares. Following the catastrophic earthquake of 1755, the square was rebuilt as part of the city’s reconstruction efforts. The uniform, neoclassical facades and grand arches are clearly marked with dates and design principles from the rebuilding period. Instead of just admiring the open space and architecture, walk through the arcades to find tucked-away cafés and traditional shops. Visit the Lisboa Story Centre to get a dramatic retelling of the city’s history or take a break at Martinho da Arcada, the city’s oldest café, once frequented by poets and intellectuals.

Praça do Comércio
Rua do Arsenal
Lisboa
Portugal

Estrela Basilica

Stepping into Estrela Basilica, you’re immediately struck by the sense of calm and the refined beauty of its neoclassical design. The basilica’s façade, with its prominent dome, orderly columns and clear lines, contrasts with the ornate details found within its walls. For us, Estrela Basilica is not just architectural landmark – it holds stories, faith, and the rhythm of Lisbon’s past, etched into every stone. Everyone admires this church from the outside, but for a fresh perspective, climb up to the dome. The view from the top gives you a breathtaking look at the intricate domed ceiling and bell towers, plus you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon from this vantage point.