Hello, I’m Veronica
The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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Praça Luís de Camões
Praça Luís de Camões is one of Lisbon’s most iconic and lively squares, located at the intersection of the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts. Named after Luís de Camões, Portugal’s greatest poet, the square is dominated by an impressive statue of Camões surrounded by smaller sculptures of other famous Portuguese literary figures. The square is a popular meeting spot, with calçada portuguesa (traditional Portuguese pavement) designs, elegant 19th-century buildings, and nearby cafés and restaurants that give it a vibrant yet historic atmosphere.
Since it sits between Chiado’s cultural sophistication and Bairro Alto’s nightlife scene, it’s a great place to start an evening out or take a break while exploring Lisbon. The famous 28 tram passes nearby, adding to its charm. Whether you’re stopping for a coffee, admiring the statue, or soaking in the city’s energy, Praça Luís de Camões is a must-visit spot in Lisbon’s historic center.
Visit Notes
We were staying nearby, so we walked through this square at least twice a day. It was always lively and full of energy. There are many restaurants, cafes, and bakeries nearby as well as two beautiful churches at the east end of the square (Church of Our Lady of the Loreto of the Italians and Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation). If you want a space to rest your feet while you people-watch with a pastry in hand, this is a great place to do it.
Details
Largo Luís de Camões, 1200-243 Lisboa, Portugal
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Nearby
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Loreto dos Italianos
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Loreto dos Italianos, often simply known as the Church of Our Lady of Loreto, is a magnificent Baroque-style church located in the bustling Chiado district of Lisbon, right on Largo do Chiado. Built in the late 16th century by the Italian community in Lisbon, it served as their main…
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação is a beautiful 18th-century Baroque and Neoclassical church located in the lively Chiado district of Lisbon, right on Largo do Chiado. Originally constructed in 1708, it was heavily damaged during the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and subsequently rebuilt, reopening in 1784 with a more refined, elegant design. The church’s…
Elevador da Bica
The Elevador da Bica is one of Lisbon’s most charming and iconic funiculars, connecting the Rua de São Paulo with the Largo do Calhariz as it climbs the steep, narrow Bica de Duarte Belo street. Opened in 1892, this funicular was designed to help residents and visitors navigate the city’s hilly terrain with ease, and…
Igreja do Santíssimo Sacramento
The Igreja do Santíssimo Sacramento, or the Church of the Most Holy Sacrament, is a magnificent religious site located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Situated in the heart of Lisbon’s downtown area, the church stands as a beautiful example…
Carmo Convent
The Carmo Convent, located in Lisbon, Portugal, is an interesting historical site that stands as a poignant reminder of the devastating earthquake that struck the city in 1755. The convent, originally built in the 14th century, was severely damaged during the earthquake, leaving its magnificent Gothic architecture in ruins. Today, the Carmo Convent stands as…
Santa Justa Elevator
The Santa Justa Elevator (Elevador de Santa Justa), located in Lisbon, Portugal, is a magnificent piece of engineering and a popular tourist attraction. It was designed by engineer Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard and opened to the public in 1902. The elevator is an impressive iron structure that connects the lower Baixa district with the higher…
Other Sights
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Cemitério de Prazeres
The Cemitério de Prazeres in Lisbon is one of the city’s most beautiful and historically significant cemeteries, offering a unique blend of art, history, and tranquility. Established in 1833 during a cholera outbreak, it became the final resting place for many of Portugal’s most notable figures, including politicians, writers, and artists.
Walking through the cemetery feels like exploring an open-air museum, with its impressive mausoleums, intricate tombstones, and grand family vaults, many of which belong to Lisbon’s aristocratic families. The cemetery is particularly famous for the majestic tomb of the Dukes of Palmela, the largest mausoleum in Europe. The elaborate stonework, sculptures, and centuries-old cypress trees create a peaceful yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.
One of the highlights of visiting is the stunning panoramic view over the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge, making it a great spot for photography and quiet contemplation. Despite being a cemetery, it is a place of beauty, reflection, and history, perfect for those interested in Lisbon’s past and architectural heritage.
Visit Notes
I love cemeteries. So much. This one was beautiful, shady, and peaceful which was a nice change of pace from most of the rest of Lisbon. If you like cemeteries, this is definitely a stop you will want to make. As a bonus, there are kitties lounging around everywhere.
Details
Praça São João Bosco 568, 1350-295 Lisboa, Portugal
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Nearby
Basílica da Estrela
The Estrela Basilica is situated in the Estrela neighborhood, atop a small hill, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views of Lisbon. Its construction began in the late 18th century and was completed in the early 19th century, making it a prime example of neoclassical architecture. As you approach the basilica, you’ll be captivated by its…
Jardim da Estrela
Jardim da Estrela, also known as Estrela Garden, is a charming and picturesque park located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. If you’re thinking about visiting, you’re in for a treat as it offers a tranquil and serene escape from the bustling city streets. As you enter the garden, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful…
Other Sights
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Pink Street
Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) in Lisbon is one of the city’s most famous nightlife hotspots, known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful aesthetics, and lively bars and clubs. What was once the city’s red-light district has been transformed into a trendy social hub, attracting both locals and tourists looking for a great night out.
The street gets its name from its distinctive pink pavement, which was painted as part of an urban renewal project to revitalize the area. Lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, Pink Street comes alive after dark, offering everything from cocktail lounges and live music venues to dance clubs. Popular spots include Pensão Amor, a former brothel turned eclectic bar, and Musicbox, a well-known venue for live performances and DJ sets.
During the day, the street is much quieter, but it’s still worth visiting to admire the colorful facades and street art. If you’re looking for a trendy, energetic place to experience Lisbon’s nightlife, Pink Street is the place to be.
Visit Notes
I chose to go here in the morning in order to avoid any crowds. I was met with a large crew of workers cleaning up the piles of garbage and spilled drinks from the night before. Not the most photogenic of places at that time. Once they had cleared out, the street was overrun with instagrammers taking videos of themselves walking away from the camera under the umbrellas. So… yeah… The best thing that can be said for this place is that it will only take two minutes to visit.
A better use of your time might be to visit the San Gines cafe a couple of blocks away where you can get some stellar churros and chocolate. The cafe sits on a little square (the Praça de São Paulo) which is home to the beautiful Igreja de São Paulo church.
Details
R. Nova do Carvalho, 1200-019 Lisboa, Portugal
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Nearby
Igreja de São Paulo
The Igreja de São Paulo in Lisbon is a beautiful and historic church located near Cais do Sodré, just a short walk from the lively Pink Street and the Tagus River waterfront. Originally built in the 16th century, it was later rebuilt in the 18th century after being damaged in the devastating 1755 earthquake. The…
Elevador da Bica
The Elevador da Bica is one of Lisbon’s most charming and iconic funiculars, connecting the Rua de São Paulo with the Largo do Calhariz as it climbs the steep, narrow Bica de Duarte Belo street. Opened in 1892, this funicular was designed to help residents and visitors navigate the city’s hilly terrain with ease, and…
Praça Luís de Camões
Praça Luís de Camões is one of Lisbon’s most iconic and lively squares, located at the intersection of the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts. Named after Luís de Camões, Portugal’s greatest poet, the square is dominated by an impressive statue of Camões surrounded by smaller sculptures of other famous Portuguese literary figures. The square is…
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Loreto dos Italianos
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Loreto dos Italianos, often simply known as the Church of Our Lady of Loreto, is a magnificent Baroque-style church located in the bustling Chiado district of Lisbon, right on Largo do Chiado. Built in the late 16th century by the Italian community in Lisbon, it served as their main…
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação is a beautiful 18th-century Baroque and Neoclassical church located in the lively Chiado district of Lisbon, right on Largo do Chiado. Originally constructed in 1708, it was heavily damaged during the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and subsequently rebuilt, reopening in 1784 with a more refined, elegant design. The church’s…
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Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
The Palácio Nacional da Ajuda in Lisbon is a stunning neoclassical palace that offers visitors a glimpse into Portugal’s royal past. Built in the 19th century, it was originally intended to be the permanent residence of the Portuguese royal family. However, due to political upheavals, including the exile of the monarchy in 1910, it was never fully completed. Today, the palace stands as a beautifully preserved museum showcasing the grandeur of Portuguese royalty.
Inside, you’ll find lavishly decorated rooms, from the Throne Room with its opulent chandeliers and gilded furnishings to the Banquet Hall, where extravagant feasts were once held. The private apartments of the royals display intricate tapestries, luxurious furniture, and stunning artwork. The palace also holds an impressive collection of decorative arts, including porcelain, silver, and jewelry that belonged to the royal family.
Unlike some of Lisbon’s more crowded attractions, Palácio Nacional da Ajuda offers a more tranquil experience, allowing visitors to explore its grand halls at a leisurely pace. It’s a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the elegance of European royal courts. Plus, its location in the Ajuda district, near the famous Belém neighborhood, makes it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.
Visit Notes
Wow! I loved this palace. It was a bit off the beaten path from the other tourist sights, but I’m not really sure why. It’s gorgeous. I spent about an hour and a half here and saw literally one other person. This is definitely a worthwhile place to visit. You can make a morning of visiting the palace, the Royal Treasury Museum next door, and the Jardim Botânico da Ajuda down the street.
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Nearby
Jardim Botânico da Ajuda
The Jardim Botânico da Ajuda in Lisbon is a beautiful and serene botanical garden located near the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda. Established in 1768, it is the oldest botanical garden in Portugal, created under the direction of the Italian botanist Domingos Vandelli during the reign of King José I. Originally designed as a teaching garden…
Museu do Tesouro Real
The Museu do Tesouro Real (Royal Treasury Museum) in Lisbon is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by royal history, luxury, and Portugal’s monarchical heritage. Located inside the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda, this museum houses an extraordinary collection of crown jewels, royal insignias, gold artifacts, and priceless treasures that once belonged to the Portuguese monarchy. One…
Museu Nacional dos Coches
The Museu Nacional dos Coches, also known as the National Coach Museum, is a must-visit attraction in Lisbon, Portugal, especially for history and art enthusiasts. Located in the picturesque neighborhood of Belém, the museum is housed in a stunning 18th century royal riding arena, which adds to its charm and historical significance. As you step…
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MAAT
The MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology in Lisbon is a cutting-edge cultural institution located along the Tagus River waterfront in the Belém district. Opened in 2016, it offers a dynamic blend of contemporary art, architecture, and technology exhibitions within a stunning, futuristic building designed by British architect Amanda Levete.
The museum’s undulating, low-rise structure resembles a flowing wave or a sleek, minimalist seashell, seamlessly blending with the riverfront landscape. Its curved, reflective façade, covered in over 15,000 white ceramic tiles, catches the sunlight beautifully, creating mesmerizing reflections and shimmering effects. The building’s walkable rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the Tagus River, the 25th of April Bridge, and the surrounding Belém area, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
Inside, the MAAT houses spacious exhibition halls dedicated to contemporary art installations, technological innovations, and architectural designs. It regularly hosts temporary exhibitions by renowned international and Portuguese artists, fostering a dialogue between the past, present, and future of creativity and innovation. The museum also engages visitors with interactive displays, multimedia experiences, and thought-provoking installations.
Adjacent to the main building is the Tejo Power Station, a beautifully restored industrial building from the early 20th century that now serves as part of the museum complex. The Tejo Power Station offers fascinating exhibits focused on the history of energy production and industrialization, with many of the original machinery and equipment on display.
Visiting the MAAT is a must for anyone interested in modern architecture, contemporary art, or innovative technology. Its location along the riverfront also makes it an excellent stop on a leisurely stroll through Belém, near other famous attractions like the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. The museum is easily accessible via public transportation, and its striking architecture alone is worth the visit.
Visit Notes
I visited here solely for the exterior of the museum since contemporary art is not something I typically enjoy. The exterior of the building is absolutely worth visiting though. It’s interesting to behold and the museum’s position on the river offers a great place to sit and eat some ice cream.
Be sure you walk up on the roof for even better views. I particularly enjoyed visiting at sunrise. I sat and watched the joggers for a while, glad that I don’t bring my running shoes on vacation.
Photos
Nearby
Museu Nacional dos Coches
The Museu Nacional dos Coches, also known as the National Coach Museum, is a must-visit attraction in Lisbon, Portugal, especially for history and art enthusiasts. Located in the picturesque neighborhood of Belém, the museum is housed in a stunning 18th century royal riding arena, which adds to its charm and historical significance. As you step…
Monument to the Discoveries
The Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) in Lisbon is a striking and symbolic tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries. Located along the Tagus River waterfront in the Belém district, the monument was originally constructed in 1940 for the Portuguese World Exhibition and later rebuilt in 1960 to…
Belém Tower
The Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) in Lisbon is one of Portugal’s most famous and picturesque landmarks, celebrated for its unique Manueline architectural style and historical significance. Built between 1514 and 1519 under the reign of King Manuel I, the tower was designed by architect Francisco de Arruda to serve as a fortress and ceremonial…
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The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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