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Lisbon is built over seven hills and there are great views from the summits. They're called miradouros, small parks with benches and a cafe or two. Here are the best.
Lisbon's miradouros or belvederes are perfect for photo opportunities. But don't just take the picture; take the time to look around you – among other things, at the river Tagus with its spectacular 25 de Abril bridge (it looks like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco) and 17-km Vasco da Gama bridge. You can also spot the Castelo São Jorge (St George's Castle), the National Pantheon and the Sé Cathedral. Many of the viewpoints have small parks with benches and at least a kiosk cafe where you can get a cup of coffee and chat with the locals. Miradouro de São Pedro de AlcântaraTake the Elevador da Glória up to this essential viewpoint. As well as a wide panorama of the city, there's a lovely tiled map so you can match up the monuments and figure out what's what. From here, stroll down past eh Sao Roque church towards the Bairro Alto (great for nightlife) and Chiado (great for shopping) districts. Miradouro de Santa LuziaMost people stop here on the way up to the Castelo São Jorge. Tram 28 takes you straight there and it's a perfect early-morning sight. A terrace café frequented by locals playing chess is a big attraction too. Just around the corner is yet another miradouro, the Portas do Sol or 'Sun Gates'. Miradouro de Santa CatarinaTurn left and left again at the top of the Elevador da Bica, and follow the street down to this hippy-style miradouro. There are usually some characters hanging around at the kiosk café or picnicking on the small patch of grass under the statue of a monstrous Adamastor (dreamed up by Portuguese writer Luis de Camões). For a better drink and meal, head down to the far right-hand corner and visit the atmospheric Noobai café. Miradouro de Santa GlóriaJump off tram 28 as it reaches Largo da Graça. There's an old church dating back to 1271 as well as this lovely belvedere with views over the Castelo São Jorge (St George's Castle) and city. Lisbon's Free AttractionsGreat views are one of Lisbon's best free attractions and a great way to spend a peaceful hour or two – especially if you're travelling on a budget. There's always a café or two around, but the viewpoints are an even better place to picnic or watch the sun go down with a bottle of wine. Reaching the BelvederesYou can normally reach Lisbon's high spots by using the trams or the elevators. Or, if you can take the climb or want to work off all those ice-creams, try walking! At least you can relax on the benches at the top.
The copyright of the article Lisbon's Miradouros (Viewpoints) in Portugal Travel is owned by Monica Guy. Permission to republish Lisbon's Miradouros (Viewpoints) in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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