The Camino Portugues begins with a route that allows us to get closer to Portuguese culture.
Let’s start on the Camino Portugues!
The Camino Portugues begins from the Portuguese capital. On its initial journey, it crosses the Caminho do Tejo, the pilgrimage route to Fatima.
Much of today’s journey runs through urban areas, although the pilgrim can enjoy beautiful landscapes, especially in those sections that run near the river.
If you are thinking about walking the Camino de Santiago from Lisbon tell us what your plans are for the Camino de Santiago and we will contact you to advise you on everything you need.
Itinerary stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
The first stage of the Camino Portugues covers 17 kilometres and does not present any great slopes.
Lisbon (Km. 0). Beginning of stage
Practical tips for this section: Lisbon is a cosmopolitan city that deserves a day of sightseeing. The best thing is to arrive one or two days before to have the opportunity to visit the many places of interest that the city can offer you. If you decide to organize the Camino Portugues with us, let us know and we will take care of everything. Buen Camino!
The Camino Portugues departs from the very door of the Lisbon Cathedral. There, to the right of the door, we will find the first arrow that indicates that we must continue along the south side of the temple, entering in Rua Cruzes da Sé. The path crosses the district of Alfama, the oldest in the Portuguese capital.
A combination of yellow and blue arrows guide us to the end of the street and continue along Rua São João da Praça, Largo de São Rafael, Rua de São Pedro, Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, where the Fado Museum is located. From there, we start a climb by Rua dos Remédios and continue along Rua do Paraíso.
Following the River Tejo estuary (the part of the Tagus River that runs on Portuguese soil) We continue along the Rua Mirador and Da Cruz de Santa Apolónia, leaving the Santa Apolónia station and the port facilities on the right-hand side. Then we descend by Rua Madre de Deus and arrive at the Museo Nacional do Azulejo, located in a 16th-century convent (km. 2.7).
Following the signs, we cross the neighbourhoods known as Beato, Poço do Bispo and Braço de Prata. We pass under a viaduct and leave the fence that separates the train tracks on our left. 150 metres later, turn right on Rua Gaivotas em Terra and then, left on Avenida Fernando Pessoa, for which we enter the district of Parque da Nações.
Parque da Nações (Km. 4,6)
Practical tips for this section: Many pilgrims to avoid the urban stretch, take the bus 728 or 759, to the Parque das Naçoes or the train to the station of Oriente, next to the park. However, the initial departure from Lisbon is very entertaining because it crosses the district of Alfama full of fado bars. Buen Camino!
We continue by advancing towards the Oceanarium. By the Passeio do Tejo, a tree-lined promenade that runs along the water’s edge, we continue on to la Torre de Vasco da Gama and a great fountain that appears in the background. We pass under the imposing Vasco da Gama bridge (km. 7.6), the longest European viaduct.
We follow the path along footbridges and dirt roads that advance parallel to the river. At the end, the route turns to the left to run parallel to the Trancão, a tributary of the River Tejo. Following the indications that we will find on our way, we cross five viaducts, three road viaducts and two train. This is how we enter the town of Sacavém (km 11).
In Sacavém the arrows lead us to cross the bridge of the N-10 road. As we pass the bridge, we must turn left to go down a path that leads us to the banks of the river.
This turn can be confusing because at the exit of the bridge is also located the 138km stone marker of Fatima.
We follow the pilgrim route along a path of land that follows the riverbank and we cross a large motorway viaduct. The dirt track continues along the valley between almond trees, olive trees and reeds. It is a long stretch, with little shade and quite solitary, we will only come across a few houses in ruins.
We turn right to take a track that ends on a paved road. Once there, we turn right again, paying a lot of attention to the traffic, and we arrive at our destination for today, Santa Iría de Azoia.
Santa Iría de Azoia (Km. 17). End of stage
Practical tips for this section: Congratulations! You’ve managed to complete the first stage of the Camino Portugues. See you tomorrow!
Yes, on the first stage of the Camino Portugues you can enjoy the tranquillity that Santa Iría de Azoia offers you to rest. In the locality, you can visit the Castelo de Pirescoxe Castle and its main church.
Comments stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
Here are some details about the precautions you should take in the first stage of the Camino Portugues as well as some culinary recommendations.
How to get to Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and therefore, linking with it from any point of the country is relatively simple. If you come from another country, there are many international flights to Lisbon airport.
Remember that if you do not want to worry about accommodation, transfers and other logistical details on your pilgrimage on the Camino Portugues, we can take care of everything. You just have to get in touch with us here.
Precautions stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
To start the Camino Portugues we recommend that you arrive in Lisbon one or two days in advance so you can enjoy the wonders of the city. This first day does not show a lot of tourist attractions, more than those located in the Portuguese capital.
The stage does not imply any added difficulty either for cyclists or for people with reduced mobility.
If you don’t have a credential, you can get one at the Lisbon Cathedral. They will attend you between 9.00h and 19.00 h.
On the Camino Portugues, you will find yellow arrows and blue arrows. The yellow ones correspond to the Camino de Santiago and the blue ones for the route to Fatima. It may seem confusing but on many occasions, they are found beside each other.
If you walk the Camino Portugues in summer or in times of very hot weather, you must always have enough water, since there are not many fountains on the route, hat, sunscreen and insect repellent, because the paths that run along the rivers are usually full of them.
Take care at Sacavém while crossing the bridge over the River Trançao. There is also the 138 km stone marker of Fatima. Upon exiting the bridge, turn left immediately and take a downhill path. There are signs that indicate it but they usually go unnoticed. A wrong turn at this point will lead you to a long detour.
After Alverca do Ribatejo Iria, the indications of the road are somewhat scarce, the football club is a good visual reference to follow well.
Gastronomy stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
Here are some recommendations for you to enjoy Portuguese cuisine on the first day of the Camino Portugues.
- Green broth
- Cocido Portuguese style (Stew)
- Feijoadas (Bean stew)
- Pork Alentejo (Pork and seafood stew)
- Favas á portuguesa (Fava beans)
- Cod, in any of its many preparations.
- Cakes from Belém, cream cakes made with puff pastry tarts
- Queidadas de Sintra (Sintra cheesecakes)
- Coffee. The coffee in Portugal is very economical and is usually of very good quality, you can order Cheico, Bica, pinging, Garoto, Galão, Expresso, etc.
- Liquors: Shot of Ginginha, a brandy with cherries that locals have at any time of day, Baganço, an Orujo, and Beirão, a liqueur of herbs or candied anise.
Services stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
Meet the main health care services, cafes, ATMs, restaurants and are in this stage of the Portuguese Way of St. James.
Map stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
Consult the map with the route, points and towns along the stage.
Profile stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
Consult the profile of the stage: altitude and degree of difficulty of each section.
What to do stage Lisbon – Santa Iría de Azoia
The main attraction of today’s stage is Lisbon, so we recommend that you arrive in the city one or two days before starting the Camino Portugues.
However, in Santa Iria de Azoia, you will also find some places to visit. Below we give you some details about the main places you can visit on today’s route.
Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral is also known as Sé de Lisboa. It is the most recognized and ancient church of the city, its construction dates from the 12th century. The building is of Romanesque style and has undergone several renovations, especially after the earthquake of 1755, in which several parts of the church were destroyed.
The cathedral is an architectural ensemble with a cloister very similar to that of the Jeronimos Monastery but smaller. In it, you can see Roman, Arab and medieval vestiges, which have been recently excavated. To visit them you have to pay a separate entrance fee.
At the top of the cathedral is the well-known treasure of the cathedral made up of several rooms full of jewels, costumes and relics from different eras. This space works as a museum that shows the life of the location.
Practical information:
Cathedral timetable: Every day from 9:00 to 19:00.
Cloister timetable: In summer, from Monday to Saturday (from 10:00 to 18:00) and Sundays (from 14:00 to 18:00). In winter, from Monday to Saturday (from 10:00 to 19:00 and from 14:00 to 19:00).
Treasury timetable: Closes Sundays and holidays. From Monday to Saturday (from 10:00 to 17:00).
Cathedral entrance: Free
Cloister entrance: 2.50 euros
Treasury entrance: General (€2.50), students and Youth card (€1.25)
Aqueduct of Aguas Libres
The aqueduct of Aguas Libres is located in the Alcántara Valley of Lisbon. It is one of the best known places in the city. It was built in the 19th century by the mandate of Juan V, to bring water to the Portuguese capital.
The main channel has a length of 19 kilometres, but adding the secondary channels the aqueduct has a total of 58 kilometres of infrastructure. On its route, it has 35 arches, some of which reach 65 metres high.
Guided tours above the arches or visit the Water Museum can be arranged.
Basílica da Estrela
The Basilica da Estrela de Lisboa is also known as Basilica do Sagrado Coração. Its construction was carried out in 1779, by order of the Queen María I, who had promised to build a temple if she gave birth an heir to the throne.
In the temple, its huge dome is the highlight, from where you can overlook the whole city. The interior features a neo-classical style with Baroque touches and features a coloured marble décor. Inside is the tomb of María I and an image that represents the birth of Jesus.
Practical information:
Timetable: From Monday to Sunday (from 7:30 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 20:00).
Entrance to the Basilica: free
Entrance to the viewing area of the dome: 5 euros.
São Jorge Castle
São Jorge Castle stands on the highest hill of Lisbon, St. George’s. It is one of the most visited places in the city. Its construction dates back to the 5th century and was carried out by the Visigoths, although centuries later, in the 9th, the castle was extended by the Arabs. A time when the castle was known as Castelo dos Mouros, as it was a Muslim fortress.
In 1150, the fortification was conquered by Alfonso Henríquez and was occupied by the kings of Portugal, a time when the castle was in its maximum splendour. With the earthquake that in the year 1755 shook the city, the castle was very damaged. In the 20th century, a thorough renovation was carried out that allows to currently visit.
The building features a weapons court, old dungeons, various defence cannons and eleven towers. The most amazing is the Torre de Ulises, from where the whole city of Lisbon can be appreciated. The castle also has some nice gardens.
Practical information:
Timetable: from March to October (from 9:00 to 21:00). From November to February (from 9:00 to 18:00).
Admission: General (€8.50), students under 25 years of age, over 65 and persons with reduced mobility (€5), minors (free).
Convento do Carmo
The ruins of the Carmo Convent of Lisbon are exposed to the open skies. The original convent was of a Gothic style and its construction was finished in the 15th century, so its structure represents the typical style of mediaeval Portuguese.
The convent building was the most valuable in Lisbon until in 1755 it was demolished by the earthquake. The convent church was built on the order of Nuno Alvares Pereira, a nobleman who with this action wanted to retire to religious life.
On the side of the convent, there is also a door that enjoys a great historical tradition, since it was the access that joined the temple with the Royal Palace, located in the mountain opposite.
The remains of the convent currently host the Museo Arqueológico do Carmo dedicated to exhibiting a small but valuable collection on the history of Lisbon, which ranges from prehistory to the Middle Ages. The tombs of King Ferdinand I and Nuno Alvares de Pereira are found in the museum.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Sundays. From June to September, from Monday to Saturday (from 10:00 to 19:00) and from October to May, from Monday to Saturday (from 10:00 to 18:00).
Admission: General (€3.50), students (€2.50), under 14 years (free).
Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceiçao Velha
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceiçao Velha was erected on the Church of Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia, which was ruined by the earthquake of 1755. In 2010, it was declared a national monument.
The church stands out for its Manueline-style façade and topped by a triangular gable. The portal is finished in tympanum and ornamented with sculptures by Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia, surrounded by Queen D. Leonor and Leonor de Viseu, Pope Alexandre VI, King D. Manuel I, the Bishop of Lisbon and other illustrious personages.
The temple is formed by a single nave and a chapel, known as Santíssimo Sacramento. In the chapel, there is an image of Nossa Senhora do Restelo, which was donated by Infante Don Henrique. From the interior, the decoration is based on tiles and plaster.
Church of San Vicente de Fora
The Church of San Vicente de Fora in Lisbon dates back to 1582 and is of Renaissance style. Its construction was carried out by order of the first king of Portugal, Alfonso Enríques, who wanted to erect a temple that sheltered the body of Saint Vincent, named Patron of the city.
The works were finished in 1692 but, the earthquake of 1755 affected the building and the church had to be restored, the moment in which it became the pantheon of the Bragança dynasty.
The temple features an asymmetrical Italian-style façade and is flanked by two towers. The images of San Vicente, San Sebastián and San Agustín appear on the outside. Inside, stands out the baroque canopy, the work of Machado de Castro, in which the conquest of Portugal is reproduced.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. From Tuesday to Friday (from 9:00 to 18:00), Saturdays (from 9:00 to 17:00) and Sundays (from 15:00 to 17:00).
Church of Santo Antonio
The Church of Santo Antonio de Lisboa is a temple of small dimensions. The present church rises above a former temple that had to be demolished, as a result of the earthquake in 1755. The new construction was carried out thanks to the intervention of Mateus Vicente and was financed, in part, with money raised by the children of the city.
Next to the church, there is the Museo Antoniano, which exhibits sculptures, ceramics, images and writings on the saint. It also shelters different elements that have been used as decoration in the church. Among these, stands out a mural made with tiles in which San Antonio is depicted preaching to fish.
Practical information:
Church Hours: Open daily from 8:00 to 15:30.
Museum timetable: closes on Mondays. From Tuesday to Sunday (from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00).
Entrance to the church: free of charge.
Entrance to the Museum: General (€1.23), Sundays, under 18 years and 18 May and 13 June (free).
Church of Santo Estêvão
The Church of Santo Estêvão in Lisbon dates from 1773. The temple is divided into five sections separated by pilasters. In the central sections, there are three doors decorated with gables of various scenes. On the right side of the temple stands a large bell tower.
Inside the church stands the main altarpiece, located at the bottom of the nave, dating from the 18th century. The altarpiece is the work of Mateus Vicente de Oliveira and Joao Antonio de Padura and is presided over by a rugged gable. In the centre, it houses the carving of the crucified Christ, surrounded by angels.
The sacristies also draw our attention. A roof covered by tiles, from the 18th century, and another, much more modern that guards the canvases of Pedro Alexandrino and Bernardo Pereira.
Church of São Domingos
The Church of São Domingos, Lisbon, dates from the 13th century. However, like many of the city’s buildings, it had to be rebuilt after the earthquake that devastated the city in 1755.
Later, in the year 1955, the church again suffered a setback, this time a fire that destroyed its interior. Only the nave and its columns were preserved, as well as some images and paintings in the sacristy. Among the preserved works, the image of São Tomás de Aquino stands out, made of polychromatic wood.
Practical information:
Opening hours: open every day. From Monday to Sunday (from 7:30 to 19:00).
Mass times: Every day (8:00, 08:30, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00 and 18:00).
Admission: Free.
Church of São Roque
The São Roque Church of Lisbon is a small and sober temple dating back to the year 1506. Although, subsequently, it has undergone several renovations as carried out by its different owners.
Its first owners were the Brotherhood of San Roque, hence its name. Later it was ceded to the Jesuits, they owe the carvings of saints such as San Ignacio de Loyola, Luis de Gonzaga, San Francisco de Borja and San Francisco Javier. With the banishment of the Jesuits from the country, the church passed into the hands of the Santa Casa da Misericordia of Lisbon.
Inside, the church houses a larger chapel, located at the bottom, and eight smaller chapels, distributed on the sides and covered with gold. Of these, the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, built in Rome for Pope Benedict XIV to celebrate Mass in May 1747, stands out. Later, it was moved piece by piece to Lisbon.
Practical information:
Opening hours: open every day. Monday to Friday (from 8:30 to 17:00), Saturdays and Sundays (from 9:30 to 17:00).
Jeronimos Monastery
The Jeronimos Monastery is located in the Belém area of Lisbon. The monastic building represents the maximum expression of Manueline architecture in Portugal.
In the year 1983, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Its construction was carried out by Manuel I, who wanted to celebrate the return from India of Vasco de Gama. The building was carried out on an old chapel that had been erected by Henry the Navigator.
In its origin, the monastery was managed by the order of San Jerónimo, which accounts for its name. However, as of the 19th century, with the consolidation of the Liberal government and the destruction of religious orders, the facilities became the property of the state.
The Jeronimos Monastery has a beautiful temple inside, which is accessed through the Portada de Mediodía, also in Manueline style. The cover is presided over by the image of Our Lady of Belém, although it also includes scenes from the life of San Jerónimo.
In the nave of the Church of Santa Maria de Belém, there are six columns carved on which stands a huge ribbed vault. You can also visit the mausoleum and other frescoes that depict the adoration of the Magi and the Passion of Christ.
Although if you have a doubt, the most spectacular space of the monastery is the cloister. Inside it presents an abundant decoration related to the sea, as well as other elements, like the repetition of the letter M, also of Manueline style.
In the courtyard of the cloister are the graves of the poet Luís de Camões and Vasco de Gama. From the second floor, you can access the upper area, where the tomb of Fernando Pessoa is to be found. In addition to these, the temple also guards the remains of important kings of Portugal, such as Henry I, Catherine of Austria, Sebastián I or Manuel I and his family.
The monastery houses two museums in its facilities. In one wing, the Museum of the Navy, and in the other, the National Museum of Archaeology. The latter has an exhibition with the most valuable archaeological pieces of Portugal, from the Paleolithic to the Middle Ages.
Practical information:
Opening hours: open every day. From May to September (from 10:00 to 18:30), from October to April (from 10:00 to 17:30).
Admission: General (€10), young card, older than 65 years, persons with reduced mobility and families with children (€5), under 12 years, unemployed of the EU and first Sunday of the month (free).
You can buy a combined entrance for the Jeronimos Monastery + Torre de Belém (€10) or Jeronimos Monastery + Belém Tower + Ajuda Palace (€13).
Monument of the Discoveries
The monument to the discoveries of Lisbon is located next to the Torre de Belém and the Jeronimos Monastery. It is a sculpture of fifty-two metres high, which dates from 1960. The work was carried out to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Henrique the Navigator, who discovered the islands of Madeira, Cape Verde and the Azores.
The sculpture is shaped like a point of a caravel and on it, the discoverer embarks with other famous personages in the discoveries made in the history of Portugal. Near the monument, you will find a viewpoint that bears this name, and from which you can enjoy an excellent panoramic view of the neighbourhoods on the west side of Lisbon.
From the viewpoint, you can also see La Rosa de los Vientos. A large marble tile, inside which represents the map of the world. The mosaic is the work of Cristino da Silva, measuring fifty metres in diameter, which was a gift from the Republic of South Africa to the country.
Practical information:
Timetable: from 10:00 to 18:00. From May to September it opens every day. October to April, closes on Mondays.
Entrance fee: 3 euros.
Berardo Museum
The Berardo Museum is located in Lisbon and was inaugurated in 2007. The space houses one of the most powerful contemporary art collections in the world. In fact, for several years it was the most visited museum in the world.
This contemporary art space pays homage to the collector José Manuel Berardo, a powerful Portuguese businessman. From a very young age, he became interested in art and, throughout his life, he devoted himself to collecting artistic works, and to have more than 40,000 works. The employer signed an agreement with the Government of Portugal, and this was the collection that can be visited today.
Most of the works that are set out in the museum are related to the movements of the visual arts of the 20th and 21st centuries, mainly from Europe and America. The museum also houses some temporary exhibits related to the permanent exhibition.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. From Tuesday to Sunday (from 10:00 to 19:00).
Museum da Marinha
The Museo da Marinha in Lisbon was inaugurated in 1973 and is one of the most visited museums in the country. This space has as a function to disseminate knowledge linked to the maritime history of Portugal, from the time of the discoveries to the present day.
Its collection includes navy weapons, uniforms, river vessels, maritime charts, as well as various tools and objects used for navigation. It also has a library specialized in maritime works with all kinds of books that help the visitor to understand the complicated world of the Navy.
Practical information:
Opening hours: open every day. From May to September (from 10:00 to 18:00), from October to April (from 10:00 to 17:00).
Admission: General (€5), young people up to 18 years old (€2.5), under 6, unemployed and Sundays until 14:00 (free).
National Museum of Ancient Art
The National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon contains a significant collection of works from the 12th to the 19th centuries. The museum is based in a former 17th-century convent, owned by the Távora family.
Later, the building passed into the hands of the Marquis of Pombal, who reconditioned it as a palace. In 1884, the building hosted the National Museum of Fine Arts and archaeology until the year 1911, when the present museum was installed, at the request of José Figueirido.
The museum exhibits 7,500 pieces of porcelain of various origins, some 4,500 pieces of textiles, 3200 jewels, both Portuguese and French, more than 2,200 paintings, Portugal and Europe and 1,700 pieces of old furniture.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. Tuesday (from 14:00 to 18:00), from Wednesday to Thursday (from 10:00 to 17:30).
Admission: General (€5), Young Carnet (€3), under 14, unemployed and Sundays until 14:00 (free).
National Car Museum
The National Car Museum was inaugurated in 1905 and is one of the most visited museums in the city. It houses a large collection of vehicles from the 17th to the 19th century. A carriage that was owned by King Felipe III of Spain stands and three carriages of Baroque style, manufactured in 1716, from Rome.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. From Tuesday to Sunday (from 10:00 to 18:00).
Admission: General (€5), 15 to 25 years old (€2.50), Carnet joven (€2), under 14 years old, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 14:00 (free).
Palacio das Necessidades
The Palacio Das Necessidades, Lisbon, is a complex composed of a convent and a palace. The construction was carried out on the remains of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Necessidades. The construction has had various functions throughout history.
In its origins, it was the residence of D. João IV. Then it became the shelter of the foreign princes visiting Lisbon. In the year 1834, it was decided to unite the palace to the convent and to install the Academy of Sciences there. Finally, in 1916, it began to be used as headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The building stands out as the only royal residence that withstood the devastating 1755 earthquake.
Its structure is articulated around two quadrangular courtyards, of which are born rectangular wings with gabled roofs. The south façade consists of three bodies separated by pilasters. In these, you can see 24 windows located in the lower and central body.
The temple is accessed by a cover flanked by two niches with the statues of São Pedro and São Paulo. In the centre of the sculptures, a relief is seen with the image of Nossa Senhora das Necessidades.
Inside it has several rooms with interest. The Ambassadors’ room, which presents a ceiling decorated with paintings with vegetable motifs, the dining room is also highlighted, which has a gallery for an orchestra, and the library.
Belém Palace
The Belém Palace in Lisbon dates from 1559 and is the work of Manuel de Albuquerque. In the 17th century, it underwent an important renovation by order of the Counts of Aveiras.
Later, in the 18th century, the palace passed into the hands of King John V, who also carried out renovation and extension works, mainly on the outside.
Until 1886 it had the function of the royal residence and was the official residence of the Dukes of Braganza. It is currently the residence of the president of Portugal. Its facilities include the Museum of the Presidency of the Republic, with an exhibition on the history of the Portuguese Republic.
Practical information:
Palace timetable: Saturdays from 10:00 to 18:00.
Museum timetable: closes on Mondays. From Tuesday to Sunday (from 10:00 to 17:00).
Queluz Palace
The Queluz Palace is located in Lisbon, dating back to the 18th century and is Baroque in style. Following the earthquake of 1755, it had to be restored and then incorporated influences of Portuguese architecture, such as the presence of tiles.
Its construction was carried out by mandate of the Braganza family. One of his first uses was the royal residence, until it passed into the hands of the state. In the mid-20th century, a serious fire devastated the building and it had to be remodelled again.
The palace has two uneven wings that open into a garden. Attention is drawn to its pastel-coloured façade, where several balconies are placed. The outside is surrounded by gardens, which highlights a canal covered with tiles, which was filled with water when someone from the royalty wanted to take a small boat ride.
Inside, the tile room is highlighted, which depicts scenes of the ancient colonies of Portugal, and the King’s Chamber, which reflects scenes of Don Quixote of La Mancha.
Practical information:
Opening hours: Open daily from 9:30 to 17:30
Entrance price: General (€8.50), over 65 years and under 17 (€7), under 6 years (free).
Seteais Palace
The Seteais Palace of Lisboa is located in Sintra, on the hillside of the massif. It dates from the 18th century and was built on the initiative of Daniel Gildemeester, Consul of Holland in Portugal.
After the death of the consul, the building passed into the hands of Diogo de Menezes Nohonha Coutinho, fifth aristocrat of Marialva. He expanded the work by adding a wing.
Shortly after acquiring the house, the Marquis died and, in the year 1946, the palace became managed by the state. Ten years later, the luxury hotel that occupies the building today was installed.
Of its interior, we should highlight the ornamentation of its rooms, some decorated with frescoes and others with images of mythological beings.
National Palace da Ajuda
The National Palace da Ajuda in Lisbon is neoclassical in style. The Palacio da Ribeira, which was destroyed by the earthquake of 1755, was formerly located in its location. In its place, a palace was erected that functioned as the residence of the Portuguese royal family during the 19th century.
Since 1910 it has functioned as a museum and it exhibits the daily life of the royal family of the 19th century. At the main entrance are 23 marble statues representing virtues, such as generosity or gratitude.
Of its interior rooms, the music room stands out, along with the throne and the ballroom. The abundant decorations of porcelain, sculptures, tapestry and painting, among others, also stand out.
At the present time, the most emblematic ceremonies of the Presidency of the Republic are held at the palace. It is also the headquarters of the Ministry of Culture and the National Library of Ajuda.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Wednesdays. Rest of the week (from 10:00 to 17:30).
Admission: General (€5), young card, students, older than 65 years and families (€2.50), under 12 years, unemployed of the EU. and the first Sunday of the month (free).
You can buy a combined entrance of the Jeronimos Monastery + Torre de Belém (€10) or Jeronimos Monastery + Belém Tower + Ajuda Palace (€13).
National Pantheon
The national pantheon of Lisbon is a Baroque-style building. Its works began at the end of the 17th century but did not culminate until 1966. The Pantheon is located on the old Church of Santa Engracia.
Since the beginning of the 20th century, it is used as a burial place for illustrious Portuguese personages, such as João de Deus or the president of Portugal. In the upper part of the building, stands a white dome of Polychrome marble, topped with a dome that illuminates the structure.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. From May to September, from Tuesday to Sunday (from 10:00 to 17:00), from October to April, from Tuesday to Sunday (from 10:00 to 18:00).
Admission: General (€4), young card, older than 65 years, under 12 years, disabled persons and unemployed in the E.U. and first Sunday of the month (free).
Plaza del Rossio
La Plaza del Rossio is also known as Plaza Don Pedro IV. It is located in La Baixa, on the northern boundary of the Rua Augusta de Lisboa. In this square is concentrated much of the life of the city, is an area very frequented by Lisbon people in their leisure time.
The square is surrounded by popular bars, restaurants and shops. In the centre of the square is the sculpture of the Soldier King, Pedro IV of Portugal.
Plaza do Comércio
Plaza do Comércio is located in the Baixa Pombalina, facing the River Tejo. It is considered the most emblematic square in Lisbon. Its construction was carried out in the space formerly occupied by the Royal Palace, which was demolished with the earthquake of 1755.
The space is flanked, on three sides, by a set of porticoed constructions, where government agencies and the tourist office are located. At the top of the square is located the viewpoint of the Arch of Rua Augusta, which allows seeing all the space from the top.
In the centre of the square is a statue of King Joseph I on horseback, carried out by Machado de Castro to honour the completion of the reconstruction work that took place after the earthquake of 1755 that devastated part of the city.
In the surrounding area, there are many restaurants and bars, such as the Martinho de Arcada, the oldest in the city, so it is also a leisure centre. In fact, it is in this square that, every 31st of December, locals and visitors meet to see in the New Year.
The grandiose Arco Triunfal on Via Augusta Street is the access to the square. The arch presents many sculptures, among which is that of Vasco de Gama, made by Víctor Bastos.
It is of interest, also, to approach from the square to the River Tejo by the steps that the kings used to disembark in Lisbon when they came from other countries.
Plaza Marquês de Pombal
The Marquês de Pombal Square is an expression of the culmination of modernism in Lisbon. In the centre of the square is a sculpture in honour of the Marquis of Pombal, who was president of the city between 1750 and 1777. Around it are located buildings with important companies, hotels, banks, etc.
The 25th of April Bridge
The 25th of April Bridge is located in Lisbon and is 2277 metres in length. It has functioned since the year 1966 and its structure has two parts at different heights. The highest is destined to the cars and the lower, to the trains.
The Vasco de Gama Bridge
The Vasco de Gama Bridge crosses the Tejo, joining Lisbon with Montijo. It is the most extensive bridge in Europe, with a length of 17.2 kilometres. Its construction took place in 18 months and more than 3,300 workers participated in it.
The bridge was inaugurated in 1998 and received the name of the Portuguese navigator in commemoration of the 500th anniversary of his return from India.
The Calouste Gulbenkia Museum
The Calouste Gulbenkia Museum in Lisbon has one of the largest private collections in Europe. The most notable is that of the Calouste Gulbenkian, who spent 40 years collecting the objects that he gave to the country when he died, in 1955.
It is considered one of the most interesting museums in the world because of its great diversity of works, which range from 2000 B.C. to today. Among the most notable are: Oriental works of porcelain, Greco jewellery, a collection of Hellenic coins, a bas-relief from the 9th century B.C., among others.
The different collections are exhibited in different rooms. The most interesting is the Islamic and Oriental art, with Persian rugs, pieces of glass and tiles, among other works of the 16th and 17th centuries of Persia, Syria, Turkey, India, Japan and China. In the museum, you can also see works by Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, Rubens or Van Dyck.
Practical information:
Timetable: closes on Tuesdays. The rest of the week (from 10:00 to 18:00).
Entrance: General (€5), to access the entire monumental precinct (€15), on Sundays (free).
Pavilion of Knowledge
The Lisbon Pavilion of Knowledge is an interactive museum of science and technology. It has been open since 1999 and its main objective is to bring knowledge and science to the public. The place has permanent and temporary exhibitions, and with numerous interactive activities.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. From Tuesday to Friday (from 10:00 to 18:00), Saturday and Sunday (from 11:00 to 19:00).
National Theatre Dona Maria II
The National Theatre Dona Maria II of Lisbon is located in the old Palace of the Inquisition (or Dos Estatus Palace) and was inaugurated in 1846, by order of Almeida Garret, a well-known playwright of the country.
In 2012, it was declared a national monument, after being razed, in 1964, by a fire that only left the exterior walls of the building. The renovation involved some works that lasted more than 14 years.
Nowadays it has a neoclassical style of Palladian influence. The façade features a portico with six Ionic columns with a triangular finish. The gable is decorated with reliefs depicting Apollo and the Muses.
Torre de Belém
The Torre de Belém in Lisbon was built between the years 1515 and 1519, the work of Francisco de Arruda. It is a construction of Manueline style that was declared, in 1983, a World Heritage site.
The beautiful monument is located at the mouth of the Tejo and, originally, it worked as a defensive element for the city of Lisbon. Later, it was used as a border centre and lighthouse.
The tower consists of five floors and a terrace. The floors communicate with each other by a spiral staircase and each has its own name. From top to bottom are: The terrace, chapel, courtroom, Kings Room and governor’s room.
On the lower floor, you can see 16 windows with defensive cannons and various holes where prisoners were thrown in the past. In one of the side façades, stands out a rhinoceros gargoyle that symbolizes the appearance of the first rhinoceros in the country, from India, in 1513.
Practical information:
Timetable: Closes on Mondays. From May to September (from 10:00 to 18:30), from October to April (from 10:00 to 17:00).
Admission: General (€5), older than 65 years (€2.50), Youth Card (€2), under 14 years and Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 14:00 (free).
You can buy a combined entrance of the Jeronimos Monastery + Torre de Belém (€10) or Jeronimos Monastery + Belém Tower + Ajuda Palace (€13).
The Santa Justa lift
The Santa Justa lift connects the Baixa with the Barrio Alto in Lisbon. It was formerly known as the name of Elevador do Carmo. It is the fastest transport but it is also a tourist attraction.
It was inaugurated in 1902 and has a height of forty-five metres. Its construction was the work of Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard. From the upper part you will enjoy splendid panoramic views of the Baixa area, making it one of the most significant viewpoints in the city.
Practical information:
Opening hours: Open daily from 7:00 to 21:00.
Entrance: Round trip 5 euros.
Castelo de Pirescoxe
The Castelo de Pirescoxe is located in Santa Iria de Azoia. The castle is located in a privileged place of the locality, overseeing the course of the River Tejo. It is actually a country house, typical of the Portuguese Middle Ages.
The construction of the castle dates back to the 15th century. The monument was erected by Nuno Vasques de Castelo Branco and his wife, Joana Juzarte, where they established their residence. Throughout history, this impressive residence has been in the possession of different Portuguese nobles, such as Alfonso VI or the count of Pomberio. After the latter, the building was abandoned and fell into ruins.
From the year 2001, restoration works of the building began, qualifying as a cultural space. At present, the castle has an open-air auditorium and fine art galleries, among other spaces.
This is a square-floor construction. In its exterior it reminds us of a military building, however, its interior disposition clearly reflects its civil use. The complex is surrounded by a low wall, topped by battlements and reinforced by three towers, of square floor design.
Inside, there is a patio from which you can access the various areas. On the side of the main façade, in the main hall, you can still see a large chimney. The bedrooms were located on the sides. In the background, the domestic quarters and stores.
Legend has it that in the cellars of the castle, the treasure of Don Sebastián is hidden. There are many curious people who have tried to find it. In fact, they say that the old owner left the place, tired of the noises caused by the curious in search of the hidden treasure.
