Iconic Landmarks in Lisbon, Portugal

I hate to admit that I didn’t know much about Lisbon, or Portugal for that matter, prior to visiting. For some unknown reason it was never on my bucket list, and also didn’t fall into my top 10 countries to visit.

After spending 3 weeks in Lisbon, I will happily admit that I overlooked this absolute gem of a city and it should be part of any European itinerary. There are so many fantastic things to see and do so it was difficult to narrow it down to a small list. The below are my highlights which I believe are a must-see when in Lisbon.

1. Castelo de São Jorge

São Jorge Castle is Lisbon’s hilltop castle which offers not only a panoramic city view, but also an education on the city’s long history. Occupation of the castle hill dates to at least the 8th century BC, with the oldest fortifications of the site dating from 2nd century BC. Since the 12th century, the castle has served as a royal palace, military base, and is now a national archive and museum.

Tip: recommend visiting early upon opening time to avoid long lines and the very hot weather during summer.

2. Convento do Carmo & Museu Arqueológico

The hauntingly beautiful ruins of Convento do Carmo were an unexpected and unique find. Once a great medieval building dating back to the 1300’s, the remaining structure is all that survived the devastating 1755 earthquake which destroyed most of the city. During mass on All Saints’ Day, the roof collapsed on the attending congregation, leaving just the gothic arches behind.

Wandering through the white stone columns, you can admire the tombs, artworks and sculptures that somehow survived the earthquake. Also housed in the sacristy is an archaeological museum with an eclectic exhibition showcasing treasures from around the world; including the Roman Sarcophagus of Muses, tomb of King Ferdinand I, baroque tomb of Queen Maria Anna of Austria, as well as Egyptian and South American mummies.

3. Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is a former monastary of the Order of Saint Jerome. Located in Lisbon’s iconic Belem district, it is one of Portugal’s more prominent examples of the Gothic Manueline architectural styles. Erected in the 1500’s, the monestary was funded by the taxes on profits made during the early Portuguese-India Armardas. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby Tower of Belem.

Fun fact: Portugal’s famous pastry treat, the Pastel de Nata, was originally created in the 18th century by the monks who lived in Jeronimos Montary.

Tip: Tuk Tuk tours are an easy way to travel from central Lisbon to Belem. Located next door to Jeronimos Monestary is Pasteis de Belem, the original bakery to sell the treat and one of the best places to purchase the delicious Pastel De Nata.

4. Praça do Comércio

Standing on the banks of the Tagus River, Praça do Comércio square is the heartbeat of Lisbon. Framed by yellow buildings and with the statue of King Jose I standing proudly in the center, the plaza is one of Lisbon’s most historic and grand squares. Once the site of the royal palace, the plaza now offers spectacular views of Lisbon’s bustling harbour, and is a center for food with cafes, breweries and restaurants lining the outside.

5. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Padrão dos Descobrimentos, or Monument to the Discoveries, is an imposing 52m tall structure that cannot be missed when in Belem. Built in the 1960’s and located on the northern bank of the Tagus River, the monument represents a romanticised idealisation of exploration, and commemorates a golden age in Portugese history.

6. Basilica of Estrela

Considered to be the most impressive and attractive church in Lisbon, the Basilica of Estrela is a baroque and neoclassical building built by Queen Maria I in the 1700’s to celebrate the birth of her son. The tomb of the queen can be found inside by the door that leads to the baroque nativity scene, which has over 500 terracotta and cork images. The exterior features a dome and two bell towers, inspired by St. Peter’s Bascilica in Rome, and can be seen up close by climing 114 steps to the terrace.

7. Livraria Bertrand

Located in the Chiado neighbourhood of Lisbon, Livraria Bertrand is recognised as the oldest operating bookshop in the world, awarded by Guiness World Record’s in 2011. Founded in 1732, it has become a renowned literary hub despite the original building being destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. It was rebuilt and reopened shortly after its destruction, and continues to operate to this day.

Tip: if you purchase from the store (of which there are numerous English titles available), your book will be stamped to certify where it was purchased, making for a highly unique keepsake.