Did you know that there are many beautiful squares in Lisbon? They are all wonderful places to take a break when you’re exploring the city.
Discover Lisbon
Lisbon, the charismatic capital of Portugal, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe (and I have visited many of them). What makes Lisbon so unique is not only its impressive architecture and beautiful tile works, but also its unmistakable soul – palpable in the warm greetings of locals, the flavors of fresh pastéis de nata, and the melancholic tones of fado music that float through the streets. A great city to get lost in the narrow (and surprisingly steep!) streets and explore the fantastic squares.
The most beautiful squares in Lisbon: an overview
Lisbon is full of beautiful squares that all have their unique atmosphere. What are the most beautiful squares in Lisbon? In no particular order:
Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio is perhaps the most famous square in Lisbon. Located on the banks of the Tagus River, this square exudes grandeur and history. The large open space is surrounded by imposing, sunny buildings with striking yellow facades, giving the square a distinctive and inviting atmosphere.
In the center is a large statue of former King Joseph I of Portugal and through the beautiful Arco da Rua Augusta on the north side you can walk right into the shopping street (Rua Augusta).
Praça Dom Pedro IV
Praça Dom Pedro IV is also called Praça do Rossio and this used to be the place for executions, bullfights, and demonstrations, among other things. Today, it is a wonderful place to relax for a while, as there are some trees and some beautiful fountains.
The first thing to notice is the waves of black and white cobblestones lining the streets that adorn the square, a tribute to traditional Portuguese tile art. At the center of this enchanting mosaic is an imposing statue of Dom Pedro IV.
Largo de São Domingos
Near Praça Dom Pedro IV is the smaller square Largo de São Domingos. This is the meeting place for many Lisbon residents, so it is always busy. In the square is a monument referring to Lisbon’s tolerance.
On the square is the Igreja de São Domingos, a special church that you should visit when you’re exploring the city. Much of the interior was destroyed by fire in the 1950s and it has never been fully restored. Very interesting to see.
Praça Luís de Camões
Praça Luís de Camões is a charming and lively square located in the Chiado neighborhood. The square is named after the famous Portuguese poet Luís de Camões, and a statue of him also stands in the center of the square.
Because of its central location, many free walking tours start in this square. In addition, Praça Luís de Camões is a perfect spot to photograph the famous yellow streetcars, as they regularly circle the square.
Largo do Carmo
A little further on you will find Largo do Carmo, a historic square. One of the most striking features of Largo do Carmo is the imposing Convento do Carmo, a former convent partially destroyed by the fire and earthquake of 1755. The remains of this majestic monastery, with its Gothic arches and open spaces, offer a fascinating picture of Lisbon’s history.
Praça do Município
Praça du Municipio (Municipal Square) is an elegant and stately square located in the heart of Lisbon. The most striking feature of Praça do Município is undoubtedly the City Hall, with its neoclassical facade and imposing architecture that attracts attention. In addition, what particularly stands out is the unusual twisted look in the center of the square.
Rosa-dos-Ventos
For travel lovers, the Rosa-dos-Ventos (Portuguese for rose compass) is a square not to be missed! Located next to the huge statue Padrão dos Descobrimentos on the Tagus River, it is a large compass with a map of the world in the middle. This square was a gift from the South African government.
Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara
The many great viewpoints (miradouros) are one of the reasons why people visit Lisbon, and here you can also find some great squares. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara consists of two sections. A higher part and a lower part. From both places, you have a beautiful view of the city. There are also many benches which makes it a great place to relax.
Praça das Flores
Praça das Flores is one of the most cozy squares in Lisbon. It is a small square among colorful historic buildings and the green trees make it feel intimate. The terraces of the cafés surrounding in the square are perfect for a romantic evening out.
Campo das Cebolas
Campo das Cebolas is a square near the Alfama neighborhood. From here you can also clearly see the differences in elevation in the neighborhood. In the square, there are several benches. A great place to do some good people-watching.
The large building with the crazy stone points is the former home of famous Portuguese writer José Saramago, who won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1998. A sentence from one of his books is written on the square in front of the house.
Praça do Império
Praça do Império is located in the Belém neighborhood and is next to the majestic Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Hieronymite Monastery). Built in the Manueline style, this architectural masterpiece is richly decorated with detailed sculptures and ornaments that reflect the grandeur of the past.
On the other side of the square is the lush Jardim da Praça do Império. This park consists of long straight lines full of fiveers, unusual sculptures, and grass, making it a great place to visit.
Praça da Figueira
Praça da Figueira is a busy square where all the buses and cabs seem to converge. The square is known for its lively market (Baixa Market), where local vendors offer a wide range of products. The market provides a lively atmosphere.
In the square is an imposing statue of Johan I of Portugal. You also have a good view of Castelo de São Jorge, the fortress located on the city’s highest hill.
Praça do Martim Moniz
A few blocks away you will find Praça do Martim Moniz. A special square that consists of a large open space, as well as lots of greenery. There are several special works of art in the square. What makes Praça do Martim Moniz a particularly popular meeting place is that it is the starting point of the iconic Tram 28.
The famous tram departs from Praça do Martim Moniz and makes a scenic journey through some of Lisbon’s most charming neighborhoods, such as Graça, Alfama, and Estrela.
Jardim Augusto Gil
Jardim Augusto Gil is a small square next to Miradouro da Graça. The tourists are mostly at the viewpoint and the locals are in the plaza. Named after Portuguese poet Augusto Gil, this park is a wonderful place to relax. I regularly went to this park to read a book and to enjoy the silence.
Escadinhas de São Miguel
Officially, Escadinhas de São Miguel is not a square, but a collection of steps behind the Igreja de São Miguel in the Alfama neighborhood. There are a few benches, and a few orange trees. Around the church, you can see several beautiful historic tiles on the walls.
Fun detail: the pink house on the corner is the oldest house in Lisbon. It is narrow at the bottom and wide at the top. This way, the residents had to pay less tax.
Map of the most beautiful squares in Lisbon
This is an image. Click here to zoom in on the map.
In my opinion, these are the most beautiful squares in Lisbon. Do you always love taking a break in a beautiful square during a city break?
Book a trip to Lisbon
Want to visit these beautiful squares during a Lisbon city break? Book your trip now!
✈️ Plane tickets – Lisbon has a large international airport and has connections with cities all over the world. Check WayAway to find the best deals and get cashback on plane tickets.
🛏️ Accommodation – Lisbon is filled with many great accommodations, such as lively hostels, cute apartments, and luxury hotels. Check Booking.com to find the best places to stay in Lisbon.
🎡 Tours and activities – There are many fun things to do in Lisbon. For example, take a boat trip on the river, enjoy an evening full of Fado music, and visit the nearby city of Sintra on a day trip. Check Get Your Guide for all the fun tours and activities.
Want to read more about Lisbon and Portugal?
Are you looking forward to a Lisbon city trip and are you looking for more information? These are great travel guides filled with tips and inspiration:
I spend a few months in Portugal every year and have therefore discovered many places in this beautiful country. That’s why my website is filled with Portugal tips. You might also like to read these articles:
- The top things to do in Lisbon
- 1 day in Lisbon itinerary & tips
- 5 Easy ways to travel from Lisbon to the Algarve
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This article was published in August 2020. Last update: December 2023.
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