To be honest, cities don’t come much more photogenic than Lisbon. With its Bairro Alto, or Old Town, spread across quaint hilly streets, combined with fascinating historical monuments and beautiful views of the Tagus River and the sea beyond, the Portuguese capital offers just about everything you need for some spectacular photos.
But if you’re pressed for time, it can be helpful to know where to head for some of the best photo spots in this beautiful city. And you have a much easier time getting those photos if you’re not carrying more than you need to. Drop off your bags at a Lisbon luggage storage, then get ready to test your photography skills at some of these stunning locations.
Praça do Comércio
This large square is one of the most iconic in Lisbon, and it’s not hard to see why. With its impressive arches and colonnades, Praça do Comércio makes for a stunning photo, especially when contrasted with the river beyond. It’s also a great place to people-watch, so you can snap some street photography while you’re at it. And anytime you need to take a break, there are so many great cafés and restaurants here. You could easily spend the day in this lively area doing nothing but taking photos and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara
This is one of the most popular vantage points in Lisbon and for good reason. The views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara are simply breathtaking, especially at sunset when you can get some truly stunning photos of the cityscape illuminated by the setting sun.
It’s worth coming up here just to watch the hustle and bustle of the city below while enjoying a refreshing drink from one of the many bars and cafés that line the square.
Belem Tower and Gardens
The Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks, making it a great photo opportunity. But the real hidden gem here is the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, or Monument to the Discoveries. This towering monument is located just in front of the tower and celebrates Portugal’s age of exploration. It’s an impressive sight, and it makes for an even more impressive photo when combined with the Belem Tower in the background.
São Jorge Castle
This castle is located on one of Lisbon’s seven hills, so you’ll have to do a bit of climbing to get here. But it’s well worth the effort, as São Jorge Castle offers some of the best views in the city. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. The castle itself is also quite picturesque, and it makes for a great photo opportunity, especially when contrasted with the cityscape below.
Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in Portugal, and it’s also one of the most beautiful. With its striking Gothic facade and twin towers, the cathedral is an impressive sight, and it makes for a great photo. The interior is also worth a visit, and it’s well worth taking some photos of the beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings.
Bairro Alto
The Bairro Alto is one of the most atmospheric areas in Lisbon, and it’s perfect for those who want to get a taste of the city’s old-world charm. With its winding streets and traditional buildings, the Bairro Alto is a great place to take some photos, especially at night when the area is lit up by street lamps. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants here, so you can easily make a day of it and explore this charming neighborhood at your leisure.
Elevador da Bica
This funicular railway is one of the best ways to get around Lisbon, and it also happens to be one of the most photogenic. The views from the Elevador da Bica are simply stunning, and you can get some great photos of the cityscape below as you ride up and down the hill. Just be sure to keep your camera safe, as pickpockets are often in this area.
Rua Nova do Carvalho – Pink Street
This street got its name from the vibrant pink tiles that line the buildings, and it’s definitely one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Lisbon. Rua Nova do Carvalho is a great place to take some photos, especially at night when the street is lit up by the colorful lights. Just be sure to watch your step, as the cobbled streets can be quite slippery when wet.
Ponte 25 de Abril
This bridge spans the width of the Tagus River, and it offers some truly breathtaking views. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Ponte 25 de Abril is also one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, making for a great photo opportunity.
The Rossio
The Rossio is one of Lisbon’s most popular squares. With its beautiful fountain and towering statue, the Rossio is a lovely spot to take a break from exploring the city. It’s also a great place to take some photos, especially at night when the square is lit up and abuzz with locals and tourists.
Conclusion
In a city as scenic and architecturally interesting as Lisbon, it isn’t hard to find spots for great photos. In fact, just about everywhere you turn, you’ll find a new beautiful view or interesting building that’s worth capturing. But these spots offer something special for your photo reel, and they are well worth tracking down to capture iconic photos of this gorgeous city.
