TOP 10: What to see in Lisbon? Places where you will discover the essence of the city

Lisbon is a city of contrasts, of light and of colour that enchants all who choose it as a destination. For this reason, Gestilar is promoting its Miraflores residential project, comprising 111 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, distributed over 13 floors. These new-build homes, notable for their contemporary design, were conceived by Saraiva + Associados Architecture Studio. Whether you have chosen this city as your home or as a leisure destination, in this post we will let you in on all there is to see in Lisbon. Grab a pen and paper and take note of the best attractions for uncovering the essence of the city.

1 > Lisbon Cathedral

This religious building, better known as the Sé of Lisbon, dates back to the 12th century, its walls housing the municipality’s oldest monument. It is characterised by its solid architectural structure and its eclectic range of decorative styles. If you are visiting Lisbon, make sure you pay a visit to the cathedral, and in particular, its cloister. Its doors are open to the public every day.

2 > The Jerónimos Monastery

If you love just wandering around and losing yourself in the streets of a city, we recommend you take a stroll around the Belém district. There, you can visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a highlight of any trip to Lisbon. The building, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the work of the architect Juan de Castillo, who built the monastery at the request of Manuel I of Portugal. The monument is notable for its symbiosis of architectural and ornamental styles of the Gothic and Renaissance periods.

3 > Tower of Belém and the Monument to the Discoveries

In the Belém district, be sure to visit two of Lisbon’s top attractions, the Tower of Belém and the Monument to the Discoveries. The former can be found on the banks of the Tagus River and is a World Heritage Site. The Monument to the Discoveries meanwhile, constructed in 1960, was built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator, one of Portugal’s most renowned historic figures. Standing at over 52 metres high, the landmark is an imposing sight and offers magnificent views you shouldn’t miss.

4 > Praça do Comércio

Also lying on the banks of the Tagus River is one of Lisbon’s most emblematic hubs, the Praça do Comércio. This square is an ideal place to sit and watch the setting sun, a fitting finale to your visit to Lisbon. In the centre of the esplanade stands a bronze statue dedicated to Joseph I.

5 > St. George’s Castle

St. George’s Castle stands atop one of the hills overlooking Lisbon. It is crowned by a total of 11 towers and its magnificent silhouette is visible against the landscape. This historic monument offers visitors one of the best views over the Lisbon. The most impressive features of this historic site are its battlements and its gardens. As one of Lisbon’s top attractions it will be an essential stop on your sightseeing tour.

6 > Alfama District

At the foot of St. George’s Castle in Lisbon, lies the humble district of Alfama. A place of reference for fishermen, the Alfama quarter is steeped in heritage and an area where you will often hear the sounds of Fado music. If it is traditional Portuguese culture you are in search of on your visit to Lisbon, head for the Alfama neighbourhood.

7 > Carmo Convent

While in Lisbon we recommend you take a stroll through the city’s bohemian Chiado neighbourhood. It is filled with an alternative vibe and the colourful façades are one of its hallmark features. Here, you will discover the Carmo Convent. It is now in ruins but it makes for an interesting visit as its structure still stands, offering a curious perspective of the building.

8 > Barrio Alto

If you want to make the most Lisbon’s nightlife, head for the Barrio Alto, where there are endless places for dining out or for enjoying a drink with friends. It is a fascinating area with a huge variety of restaurants and bars, with something for every taste and budget. Don’t forget to visit the Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara viewing point and immortalise your stay in Lisbon.

9 > Elevador da Bica

The Elevador da Bica is a funicular tram that climbs the Rua da Bica de Belo Duarte. This means of transport, originally engineered by Raúl Mesnier, runs between Largo do Calhariz and Rua de São Paulo. Take a trip on the funicular to discover one of the quaintest images of the city, a precipitous ride up or down one of its steepest slopes.

10 > Praça do Rossio

This square, also known as Praça Dom Pedro IV, is a favourite tourist location, lying right in the busy heart of Lisbon. It is situated at the north end of Rua Augusta, very close to Praça dos Restauradores. This is a great place to immerse yourself in the Lisbon ambiance. Here you will find some of the city’s most popular shops, bars and restaurants. In the square itself, take the opportunity to view the Dom Pedro IV statue and visit the Dona Maria II National Theatre, as well as the Rossio Train Station.