Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital and the famous Miradouro de Santa Luzia site, connects the old with the new. Modern boutiques and cafes sit side-by-side with ancient ruins and age-old traditions, creating a unique charm that’s hard to resist. The city is a vibrant canvas filled with color, from bright orange rooftops to blue and green azulejos (ceramic tiles) that cover many historic city center buildings. This unique blend of history and modernity will surely intrigue you.
Lisbon is known for many things, including wine, seafood, ceramics, cork, and iconic yellow trams. This article is about Lisbon’s viewpoints, or miradouros in Portuguese. Specifically the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
The views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is not just one of Lisbon’s most beloved viewpoints; it’s a place of sheer beauty that captivates all who visit. This stunning viewpoint, popular for decades, offers panoramic views over Alfama and the Tagus River. Its beauty, with its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, is sure to inspire you to want to experience it firsthand.Â
From your vantage point, you can spot major Lisbon landmarks, such as the National Pantheon of Santa Engracia, the Church of Santo Estêvão, and the magnificent spires of São Miguel Church.
The Santa Luzia viewpoint is one of the best Lisbon Instagram spots, so it should be on your itinerary!
How to get to Miradouro de Santa Luzia
There are several ways to get to the Santa Luzia viewpoint in Lisbon.
If your hotel is close and you feel up to walking, I recommend hiking to the viewpoint! However, I wouldn’t suggest that route if your trip is on a hot summer day.
I’ve been using Uber for my travels around the city. It’s a reliable and cost-effective option. Another great choice is Bolt, Lisbon’s ride-share app, which I’ve found excellent in several other European cities. These options ensure a smooth and stress-free journey to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.Â
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is easily accessible from many neighborhoods. You can enjoy a charming ride on the iconic No. 28 tram or the streetcar 12E, both stopping right before the miradouro. If you prefer the metro, a short walk from the Terreiro do Paço stop will lead you to Alfama. These convenient options ensure an easy journey to the viewpoint, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beauty of Lisbon.
From other neighborhoods, like PrÃncipe Real, you can take the subway to the Terreiro do Paço stop and walk 10 minutes to reach the Alfama district.Â
When is the best time to visit Miradouro de Santa LuziaÂ
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is a sight to behold at any time, but the early morning and late afternoon offer a particularly inspiring view. The sun rising or setting over Lisbon and its surrounding hills creates a breathtaking panorama. Even during the summer, when the crowds are larger, the beauty of the miradouro remains undiminished. For a more intimate experience, consider visiting for sunrise.
If you’re visiting Lisbon outside of the summer season, you can see the Miradouro de Santa Luzia any time during the day! The weather will be cooler, and the crowds will be significantly smaller during the off-season (typically from late spring to early summer or early autumn) and shoulder season (the period between the high and low seasons). For the best experience, consider visiting early to avoid the peak tourist hours.Â
However, whenever you plan your trip, Lisbon is absolutely worth a visit!
The Igreja de Santa Luzia ChurchÂ
Steps away from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia is the Igreja de Santa Luzia Church. This iconic church, dedicated to Saint Luzia, is one of the oldest churches in the city. Built-in the 12th century, it’s a testament to Lisbon’s rich history and architectural heritage.Â
Unfortunately, the original structure was destroyed during the 1755 earthquake. The one today was reconstructed in the 18th century.
The church’s facade is simple and built like a cross. Its stunning tiles-covered panels tell stories of Portuguese history. However, the interior is beautifully decorated in the Baroque style.
If you’re searching for beautiful blue tiles, spend a weekend in Porto!
Popular Lisbon attractions in the Alfama district
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is in the Alfama district, one of Lisbon’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. This charming area is home to some of Lisbon’s most famous attractions and exciting activities. Let’s explore some of the other highlights in Alfama that are sure to pique your interest!
Tour Castello de São Jorge
Visiting Castello de São Jorge is an excellent activity before or after visiting the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. This historic castle, perched atop Lisbon’s highest hill, offers a captivating journey back in time. As you stroll through the courtyards and towers, you’ll see the connection to the city’s Moorish past.
Also, the panoramic view from the castle walls is breathtaking. You can see the entire skyline of Lisbon, all the way to the Tagus River. This view, combined with the castle’s lush gardens, creates one of the best views in Lisbon.
Listen to Fado musicÂ
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Lisbon, I highly recommend attending one of the many Fado concerts held in Alfama. Fado music, often described as ‘the Lisbon blues,’ originated in Lisbon and is a soulful and emotional experience that will surely leave a lasting impression.
Fado comes from the Portuguese soul. UNESCO clearly agrees because, in 2011, It was officially classified as a World Heritage Site.
Head over to Sr. Fado de Alfama for traditional Fado music in a cozy restaurant after enjoying the sunset from Miradouro de Santa Luzia! With only nine tables, book ahead to get the authentic experience and taste some home-cooked Portuguese traditional dishes.Â
Visit the Lisbon CathedralÂ
The Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé de Lisboa, is a must-see landmark in the Alfama district. This majestic Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, with a rich history dating back to the 12th century, is a testament to Lisbon’s architecture’s resilience and enduring beauty. Its grandiose interior showcases intricate stonework, beautiful stained glass windows, and an awe-inspiring rose window.
Surprisingly, the Lisbon Cathedral survived the devastating earthquake of 1755, so the original structure that stands overlooking Baixa and Alfama today is intact.
Best of all, admission to this historical marvel is free, and the cathedral warmly welcomes visitors daily from 7 am to 7 pm.
Visit the Museum of Saint Anthony
Close to the cathedral is the Museu Antoniano, a museum dedicated to the life of St. Anthony.
The museum contains various sculptures, engravings, paintings, and ceramic objects alluding to the saint’s life.
Next to the museum’s entrance is a panel of flowers dedicated to Saint Anthony. Created by artist Susana Barros, this wall of flowers is another beautiful Lisbon Instagram spot!
Luxury hotels in Alfama district
Santiago de Alfama is only four minutes from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. This boutique hotel guarantees a memorable stay. Constructed from Roman-era ruins using the original ancient blueprint, the hotel seamlessly combines the old with the new. It offers included parking, beautifully crafted rooms, air conditioning, and gorgeous views.
Memmo Alfama is the first boutique hotel in the old Alfama, tucked away in a maze of cobbled streets. It features clean lines and contemporary colors, a red infinity plunge pool with a rooftop bar, and stunning views over Alfama and the Tagus River. It is minutes away from trendy Chiado and bohemian Bairro Alto.Â
Where to eat near Miradouro de Santa Luzia
The Alfama district is famous for its gorgeous viewpoints and delicious food! Here are some of my favorite options for a tasty and authentic Portuguese meal near the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
This restaurant is located just a few feet from the cathedral. The dining room is decorated with plants, and the concept is farm-to-table, meaning only seasonal, fresh, and local ingredients are used. The dishes change daily, and the vegetables and wines are organic.Â
The restaurant of one of the most acclaimed chefs in Lisbon is located between Alfama and Baixa. It’s a laid-back place but serves refined cuisine. The tasting menu uses seasonal products from local producers, following a farm-to-table concept. The restaurant makes its own bread and stands out for its vegan offerings.Â
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Around the corner from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia is another equally stunning viewpoint, Miradouro das Portas do Sol. The Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a slightly better viewpoint than the Santa Luzia, simply because it’s not as crowded.
Located just below this viewpoint, a fantastic mural painted on the walls and ceiling of a small tunnel highlights significant points in Lisbon’s history.
Lisbon has many stunning viewpoints. Whether you’re taking in the views from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, the viewing deck of the Santa Justa Elevator, the Miradouro do Senhora do Monte, the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, or another one of the city’s incredible panoramas, you’ll be in awe of the beauty of Lisbon.
Memmo Alfama Terrace
Rooftop bars are another favorite viewpoint of mine in every city, and Lisbon has so many great ones. And the Memmo Alfama Terrace is fantastic! It is located in the heart of the buzzing Alfama district and offers breathtaking views of the river, the Alfama rooftops, and all the boats passing by Lisbon.Â
You can expect an extensive wine list, an excellent cocktail menu, and a selection of Portuguese tapas.Â
