Lisbon is built on seven hills, and the city rewards those willing to climb them. The miradouros — the hilltop terraces and viewpoints scattered across the city — are some of the most beautiful spots in Europe. Some are genuinely special. Some are overrun with tour groups and overpriced sangria. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Miradouro da Graça
Our personal favourite, and the one we send guests to first. Graça sits above Alfama with an unobstructed view stretching from the castle across the rooftops all the way to the Tagus. It’s far less visited than the famous alternatives — which means you can actually sit, breathe, and take it in.
Best for: Sunset, a quiet moment, and anyone who wants to avoid the crowds.
Our tip: Grab a beer from the small kiosk at the terrace and stay until the light turns gold. It’s one of the best free things you can do in Lisbon.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
The highest viewpoint in Lisbon and one of the most complete panoramas in the city. From here you can see the castle, the river, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the hills of Sintra on a clear day. It’s a bit of a walk to reach, which keeps the numbers manageable.
Best for: First-timers who want the full picture of the city.
Why we love it: The chapel alongside the terrace is genuinely lovely. It’s a more thoughtful, quieter spot than most.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Right in the heart of Alfama, this terrace is covered in bougainvillea and overlooks the Tagus and the old Moorish quarter below. There are beautiful azulejo tile panels on the church wall beside it. It’s busier than Graça, but for good reason — it’s genuinely stunning.
Best for: Photographers and those exploring Alfama on foot.
Our tip: Visit in the morning when the light hits the river. By afternoon the tour coaches arrive.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
In Príncipe Real, this elegant formal garden terrace looks out over Baixa and the Alfama hills opposite. It’s one of the most civilised viewpoints in the city — good benches, shade, and a bar nearby. The tiled panel on the wall maps the view so you know exactly what you’re looking at.
Best for: A mid-afternoon stop while exploring Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto.
Why we love it: It’s connected to one of the best neighbourhoods in the city for wandering, shopping, and eating afterwards.
What to Skip
Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastor) are both fine but consistently overcrowded with vendors and tourist activity. They’re not bad — just not special compared to the alternatives above.
Our Recommendation
Start at Miradouro da Graça at sunset on your first evening. It will give you an orientation of the city and a memory you’ll keep for a long time. From there, work your way through the others as your explorations take you past them.
All of our apartments are within easy walking or metro distance of every viewpoint on this list.
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