Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Largo Portas do Sol, Lisbon, Portugal, 1100-411
Lisbon has no shortage of stunning viewpoints—it is, after all, known as the City of Seven Hills. From various spots around the city, you can enjoy vistas across the roofs of colorful buildings and the Tagus River (Rio Tejo), while on a clear day, you may see all the way to Almada. Miradouro das Portas do Sol—translated as the Gates of the Sun viewpoint—offers one of Lisbon’s most famous views.
The basics
Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a favorite place to stop and take photos, whether you come here independently or with a tuk-tuk or walking tour. It’s particularly popular for sunrise and sunset views, as it has a large balcony with plenty of space to find a spot and watch the sun come up or go down. From the viewing deck, you can see the winding streets of the Alfama neighborhood, the dome of the National Pantheon of Santa Engracia (Santa Egracia Panteao Nacional Lisbon), and the Museu De Artes Decorativas Portuguesas, housed in the Azurara Palace.
Things to know before you go
The viewing deck is open 24 hours.
There is no admission fee to visit the viewpoint.
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia viewpoint is around the corner on the other side of the white church, just a 1-minute walk away.
Enjoy an espresso or a glass of wine at the nearby cafés, many of which also offer great views.
A statue of St. Vincent holding the symbols of Lisbon—a boat and two ravens—stands at the viewpoint’s entrance.
How to get there
Trams 12 and 28 pass very close by the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, as does bus route 737. You can walk from Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) in around five minutes. If arriving at Lisbon cruise terminal, you can travel to the viewpoint by tuk-tuk or taxi.
When to get there
Judging from its name, the best time to visit the Miradouro das Portas do Sol is early morning to catch the sun rising over the Lisbon hills—this is also when you'll find fewer people and less obstructed views. Midday is typically busiest with tourists and tour groups heading to the viewpoint after walking through Alfama.
Additional spots in Lisbon with stunning views
It's no surprise that Miradouro das Portas do Sol is just one of many viewpoints in the City of Seven Hills. Head down to the river to climb to the top of the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém), or up the hill to the Castelo de São Jorge to enjoy miles and miles of views. The Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) also offers lovely city vistas; if you enter via the upper portion, you can avoid the line for the elevator.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!