Restauradores Square (Praca dos Restauradores)

The basics

Most every traveler who comes to Lisbon steps foot on Restauradores Square, thanks to its central position at the edge of Lisbon’s buzzy Baixa neighborhood, the commercial hub of the city. Lisbon tours, whether on foot, by bus, Segway, car, tuk-tuk, or bike, typically pass through the square en route to other must-see attractions such as St. George’s Castle (Castelo de São Jorge), Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio), and Avenida da Liberdade. Most city tours include commentary covering the restoration of Portuguese independence as well as the history of the Baixa neighborhood.

Things to know before you go

• Restauradores Square is a must for history buffs.
• Be careful of traffic around the square; It’s safest to cross at designated crossings.
• If visiting in summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as there is little shade on the square.

How to get there

Restauradores Square is situated at the south end of Avenida da Liberdade. The square is just steps from the Rossio train station (Sintra line) and the Restauradores metro station (blue line).

When to get there

Restauradores Square is often hot and busy in July and August. For a quieter—and cooler—experience, come during the shoulder season (April–May, or September–October), when there are fewer sightseers around.

The Glória Elevator

Restauradores Square is home to the lower station of the Glória Funicular (Elevador da Glória), one of the three funiculars in the city that carry people up Lisbon’s notoriously steep hills. This one, which has been running since 1885, saves travelers the leg-aching uphill ascent from Baixa to Bairro Alto, dropping passengers off beside the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, a viewpoint at the summit of one of Lisbon’s seven hills.