Where are the best Lisbon Instagram spots? Well, that question may or may not be first in mind when planning your trip to Lisbon, the Portuguese capital city.
Still, considering its seven hills, spectacular views, ancient landmarks, and cobblestone streets, you’ll certainly want to capture the magical moments of your Lisbon itinerary in memorable photos.
So let’s discover together the most Instagrammable spots in Lisbon. All the Lisbon photo spots described below are not only fabulous but also free for exterior photography.
You’ll find a custom interactive map and travel tips for these lovely Lisbon locations following. As well as firsthand perspective and candid recommendations from our years of travel and photography experience.
Ready? Let’s go!
Table of contents
- Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Belém
- Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Viewpoints (Miradouros)
- Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Public Squares
- Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Unique Photo Spots
- Getting to the Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon
- Lisbon Instagram Spots Map
- Check Out More Recommendations
- Lisbon Instagram Spots: FAQs
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Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Belém
Three of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon are in Belém, the cultural district.
The 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) and Tower of Belém (Torre de Belém) are the top two tourist attractions in Lisbon. They’re also the most famous landmarks in Portugal.
These Portuguese National Monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites are perfect sites to absorb Portugal’s rich history. And, yes, they make perfect backdrops for your Lisbon photoshoot.
The 20th-century Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) also ranks near the top of Lisbon photo spots.
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Tower of Belém
The Tower of Belem (Torre de Belém) is the most popular, most photographed subject in the Portuguese capital. Because it’s the ultimate fairytale setting from the Golden Age of Lisboa.
Built on a rocky outcrop in the Tagus River (Rio Tejo), the four-story fortifications stand about 98 feet (30 m) tall.
Outside, depending on the tides, water either partially or completely surrounds the structure, enhancing the medieval enchantment.
Inside, there are several rooms to visit, such as the Governor’s Hall, Kings’ Hall, Audience Chamber, and Chapel. The Bulwark Terrace is another Instagram-worthy opportunity.
Free admission with the Lisbon Card.
Address: Tower of Belém (Torre de Belém) | Avenida de Braslia |1400-038 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Jerónimos Monastery
A short walk from the Tower of Belém, Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) was the majestic home of the Hieronymite monks until 1833.
The handsome complex expresses a unique architectural style called Manueline. Manueline architecture honors King Manuel I of Portugal, who sponsored Vasco de Gama’s expeditions that opened sea routes to India.
Outside, the landscaped gardens, sculptures, and ornamental pools in front of the monastery expand exterior photo ops.
Inside, the two-level Cloister and garden courtyard are particularly photogenic, featuring elegant balconies, elaborate archways, and a lush lawn.
Please note that Jeronimos Monastery has been a secular monument since 1833. However, the adjoining Church of Santa Maria remains active, so modest dress is required to enter.
Free admission with the Lisbon Card.
Address: Jéronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) | Praça do Império | 1400-206 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Monument of the Discoveries
Located on the riverfront across from Jerónimos Monastery, the magnificent Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) soars 170 feet (56 m) above the Tagus River.
Inaugurated in 1960, the epic 20th-century monument honors Portugal’s Golden Age of Discovery from the 15th century to the 17th century.
Outside, the stone monument awes and astonishes. And even the tallest person appears tiny against its spectacular scale.
A central statue of Prince Henry the Navigator (Dom Infante Henrique, o Navegador) stands at the prow.
Prince Henry leads 32 larger-than-life Portuguese explorers, mapmakers, missionaries, artists, and other Discoverers. Including one Queen.
Inside, there’s an exhibition room. Also, you can take an elevator to the sixth floor and then climb 42 steps up to the rooftop viewing platform. The panoramic views over Lisbon are phenomenal.
Discounted admission with the Lisbon Card.
Address: Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) | Avenida de Braslia | 1400-038 Lisbon Portugal
Tips to Visit Belém
Via Lisbon public transport, the best bet is to take the new 15 tram from downtown Lisbon. Then it’s a short walk from Praça Afonso de Albuquerque to the landmarks.
Public buses, regional trains, hop-on / hop-off buses, and guided tour transportation also serve Belem.
As with other Portuguese cultural and historic sites, the Tower of Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, and Monument of the Discoveries are open daily to visitors throughout the year.
The exceptions are Mondays and major holidays when all sites are closed.
We recommend firstly visiting the Tower, followed by either the Monastery or the Monument of the Discoveries.
Since the small but spectacular Belem Tower is Lisbon’s most photographed landmark, the earlier, the better to minimize crowds.
Given that, if you desire your photo to have as few people around as possible, then the best day to visit Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery is on Monday or a major holiday.
The best time to arrive is early morning, as early as possible. Whether or not the sites are open, not only solo travelers and couples flock here every day, but also large bus tour groups.
And, of course, local Lisboetas come here, too. After all, it’s a top spot for proposals and other romantic photos.
Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Viewpoints (Miradouros)
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Edward VII Park Viewpoint
On the northern end of Parque Eduardo VII, the Edward VII Park Viewpoint (Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII) is considered the city’s most beautiful panoramic terrace.
The vista sweeps down the manicured park landscape to the Tagus River and beyond to the hills. Without the tile rooftops of the city centre.
The observation deck also includes the April 25th Monument to the Carnation Revolution (Monumento de Evocacao ao 25 de Abril).
Oh yes, and the huge flag is reportedly the world’s largest Portuguese flag.
Free admission.
Address: Edward VII Park Viewpoint (Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII) | Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira | 1070-051 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Santa Luzia Viewpoint
The romantic Santa Luzia Viewpoint (Miradouro de Santa Luzia) is surely the most popular and famous miradouro in Lisbon.
A pergola frames the prettiest observation deck, complete with small built-in benches and azulejo tiles – painted and glazed tiles. In spring and summer, blooming bougainvillea especially enhances the enchantment.
The view captures the charming rooftops of the historic city center down to the riverfront and the Tagus River (Rio Tejo).
Free admission.
Address: Santa Luzia Viewpoint (Miradouro de Santa Luzia) | Largo de Santa Luzia | 1100-487 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Lady of the Mount Viewpoint
The Lady of the Mount Viewpoint (Miradouro da Senhora do Monte) is the highest terrace in Lisbon.
From this lofty height, the miradouro and the 12th-century Chapel of the Lady of the Mount (Capela da Senhora do Monte) survey the city.
Free admission.
Address: Lady of the Mount Viewpoint (Miradouro da Senhora do Monte) | Largo Monte | 11770-107 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Gates of the Sun Viewpoint
You’ll find the expansive Gates of the Sun Viewpoint (Miradouro das Portas do Sol) on the south face of Castle Hill (Colina do Castelo).
With two terraces constructed in the Alfama District, incredible views are yours to enjoy. Likewise, equally incredible photos are yours to take.
Above, the ancient São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge). Below, the charming red-tiled rooftops and the blue waters of the Tagus River and Atlantic Ocean.
Free admission.
Address: Gates of the Sun Viewpoint (Miradouro das Portas do Sol) | Largo Portas do Sol | 1100-411 Lisbon Portugal
Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Public Squares
Splendidly set between the mighty Tagus River (Rio Tejo) and the magnificent Rua Augusta Arch (Arco da Rua Augusta), the historic downtown area (Baixa Chiado) begins in Commerce Square.
From the immense Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio), you’ll wander along narrow streets, up and down steep hills, past iconic landmarks – and then into the prettiest public squares.
Lisbon Spots: Commerce Square
Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço) welcomes you to Lisboa Downtown (Baixa Chiado) in regal grandeur.
This vast open space once held the Ribeira Palace until the Lisbon Earthquake and Fire of 1755 leveled the palace.
Today, Commerce Square is a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike throughout the year.
From its Tagus River Viewpoint (Miradouro do Rio Tejo), you can see the legendary 25 April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril).
Many liken this red suspension bridge to one of the world’s best bridges: the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California. As San Franciscans, we agree.
During Christmas in Lisbon through the festive season, Commerce Square holds the iconic Lisbon Christmas Tree and also hosts the official New Year’s Eve celebrations.
It’s a photographer’s dream come true.
Address: Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) | 1100-148 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Rossio Square
Broad and beautiful King Pedro IV Square (Praça de Dom Pedro IV) is a public plaza beloved by, well, everyone.
Despite the royal nomenclature, King Pedro IV Square is fondly known as the Rossio.
Its picture-perfect setting includes handsome heritage buildings surrounding the square.
A beautiful foundation and undulating waves of traditional black-and-white cobblestone pavement (calçada portuguesa) further distinguish this elegant spot for insta-worthy photos.
Address: Rossio Square (Praça do Rossio) | 1100-200 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Luis de Camoes Square
The lovely Luis de Camoes Square (Praça Luís de Camões, also known as Largo de Camões) honors Portugal’s greatest poet.
Accordingly, Camoes’ bronze statue stands 13 feet (4 m) tall atop a limestone monument about 24 feet (7.5 m) high.
The noble poet presides over this posh square in Chiado Lisbon, all outlined in intricate calcada portuguesa.
A pretty kiosk (quiosque) is the perfect place for a quick drink in the square – not to mention perfectly pretty pictures!
Address: Luis de Camoes Square (Praça Luís de Camões) | 1200-243 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Liberty Avenue
Lisbon’s premier boulevard is Liberty Avenue (Avenida da Liberdade), or simply Avenida as it’s fondly known.
The 19th-century grand buildings and luxury shops from global brands evoke the Champs d’ Elysees in Paris, France.
Avenida runs approximately one mile (1.5 km) in length between Restauradores Square (Praça dos Restauradores) in Baixa District and Marquis of Pombal Square (Praça do Marquês de Pombal) in Santo António District.
The fountains and memorial statues in the squares are quite impressive in their own right.
Further, Avenida itself features long allées of shade trees, benches, sculptures, and flower displays. Benches beckon you to sit down and relax. And, of course, snap a keepsake shot.
Address: Restauradores Square (Praça dos Restauradores) | Liberty Avenue (Avenida da Liberdade) | 1250-001 Lisbon, Portugal
Address: Marquis of Pombal Square (Praça do Marquês de Pombal) | Liberty Avenue (Avenida da Liberdade) | 1250-096 Lisbon, Portugal
Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon: Unique Photo Spots
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Carmo Convent
The evocative ruins of the 15th-century Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Covento do Carmo) rise in solemn glory in Chiado.
Completed in 1407, the Gothic church, library, and monastic complex were destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake and Fire.
Now, after careful reconstruction and restoration, Carmo Convent serves as the Carmo Archaeological Museum (Museu Arqueológico do Carmo).
Outside, the dramatic Gothic arched entrance set a striking scene in Carmo Square (Largo do Carmo).
Inside, the roofless Nave and empty Rose Window inspire thoughtful contemplation. As do the side naves and chapels displaying archaeological artifacts from prehistoric to medieval eras.
Please note the museum staff have advised that no tripods are allowed inside. Whether on your own or on a professional photoshoot, cameras are to remain in hand.
Discounted admission with the Lisbon Card.
Address: Carmo Convent and Carmo Archaeological Museum (Covento do Carmo) | Largo do Carmo | 1200-092 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Santa Justa Lift
Adjacent to Carmo Convent, the circa 1902 Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) is literally just that: A historic elevator between Carmo Square in Chiado and Rua Ouro in Baixa.
But the Santa Just Lift is more than functional Lisbon public transportation.
It’s fanciful Lisbon public transportation, expressed in embellished cast iron.
Outside, you may wish to shoot its tall vertical composition when streetside in lower Baixa.
Inside, you can snap some great city views from the enclosed viewing platform.
Next, you can capture unobstructed panoramic views from the elevator’s rooftop deck, reached by a narrow circular iron staircase.
Free unlimited rides with the Lisbon Card.
Chiado Address: Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) | Largo do Carmo | 1200-092 Lisbon Portugal
Baixa Address: Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) | Rua de Santa Justa | 1150-060 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Historic Trams and Funiculars
Besides the Santa Justa Lift, Lisbon is also world-famous for its historic trams and funiculars.
Since the 1870s, quaint wooden trams and funiculars have carried passengers up, down, and around Lisbon.
Sure, there are similarities between the trams of Lisbon, Portugal, and the cable cars of San Francisco, California.
Both public transport systems are original. Both systems are National Monuments. Also, both systems are Instagrammable icons.
Tram 28 circles the historic city center. The 28 Tram line gets notoriously crowded in the tourist hot spots but less so in quieter residential areas.
Because you can board at one stop and disembark at another stop, anywhere along the route, boarding Tram 28 in a quiet residential zone is a good idea.
Cable railways, i.e., the Gloria funicular (Elevador da Glória), the Bica Lift (Ascensor da Bica), and the Lavra Lift (Elevador do Lavra) take passengers up and down Bairro Alto District.
Outside, you can either capture photos at the lower or upper station, as well as the narrow stone staircase alongside the list.
Inside, the funicular cars can get quite crowded like the trams do. In that case, relax and enjoy the ride.
Free unlimited rides with the Lisbon Card.
Lisbon Pink Street, the Umbrella Street of Lisbon
Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho also known as Calle Rosa) has a risky reputation. Long ago, some people say, Calle Rosa was a red-light district. Others say that’s just an urban legend.
In any case, whether infamous or famous, Pink Street nowadays is a bustling pedestrian lane. And due to a cafe with a rainbow umbrella canopy, Pink Street is also the Umbrella Street of Lisbon.
Diners, partiers, clubgoers, and photo seekers throng on the bright pink-painted lane underfoot. And also under the colorful rainbow umbrellas on one end.
Except, that is, in the early morning hours. When the alley is empty after the restaurants, bars, and clubs have closed. And before tables and chairs are placed outside.
Find the Pink Street in Cais do Sodré, at the end of Calle Principe Real. Right around the corner from Time Out Market Lisboa.
Address: Pink Street (Calle Rosa) | Rua Nova do Carvalho 2123 | 1200-372 Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon Instagram Spots: Street Art
Like other major metropolitan areas, Lisbon has a lively modern street art scene. We’re not talking about scrawled tags but rather original murals and urban artwork.
Some street art is large in scale and statement. Meanwhile, other works are hidden gems. All tell a tale about the artists, their communities, and what matters most to them.
If street art is a special passion of yours, then we highly recommend a walking tour of Lisbon street art led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Getting to the Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon
Lisbon Public Transport
Besides walking, the best way of getting to the various Lisbon photo spots is the urban public transportation system.
Lisbon invests in extensive, efficient, reliable, and diverse types of public transportation, such as:
- Lisbon Metro (Metropolitano de Lisboa) subway.
- Modern Carris bus system.
- Modern tram routes, for example, the new Tram 15 between Praca da Figueira and Belem.
- Historic tram routes and funicular cable railways, as mentioned earlier
Speaking of Lisbon Metro, the subway stations feature azulejos – painted and glazed Portuguese ceramic tiles – and other original artwork.
Each Metro station features different artists and artistic themes. Some stations display traditional tiles and art. Meanwhile, other stations take a contemporary approach.
The Lisbon Metro art program makes the subway stations unique, authentic, and, oh yes, quite Instagrammable.
The Lisbon Card
So you may be wondering, what’s the Lisbon Card all about?
Well, since public transport is the best way of getting around Lisbon, then the Lisbon Card is the best way to take public transport.
The Lisbon Card provides unlimited free rides on the entire public transportation network throughout the Greater Lisbon Metropolitan area.
Additionally, the Lisbon Card includes unlimited free rides on trains between Cais do Sodre and Cascais; and trains between Gare do Oriente, Rossio, and Sintra Stations.
At this point, that may be enough. But wait, there’s more! The Lisbon Card also provides free or discounted admission to the most Instagrammable places mentioned above.
Plus: Admissions to museums and other activities, wine and dining, and shopping discounts, too.
The Lisbon Card delivers all these benefits within your chosen 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour window upon activation.
When you purchase the Lisbon Card online, it’s valid for a year from the date of purchase.
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Lisbon Instagram Spots Map
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Lisbon Instagram Spots: FAQs
What is the best Instagram spot in Lisbon?
The best Instagram spot in Lisbon is the Tower of Belém (Torre de Belém), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This romantic 16th-century landmark in the Tagus River is the most popular Lisbon photo spot.
Where is the most Instagrammable place in Lisbon?
The most Instagrammable place in Lisbon is Belém, Lisbon’s cultural district. Belém is home to the 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) and Belém Tower (Torre de Belém). Also, it is home to the 20th-century Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos).
What is the most Instagrammable street in Lisbon?
The most Instagrammable street in Lisbon is Pink Street (Calle Rosa). The pedestrian-only street of restaurants, bars, and clubs is painted bright pink. One end of the lane has a canopy of rainbow umbrellas.
Where are the newest photo spots in Lisbon?
The newest photo spots in Lisbon are the locations of street art. Lisbon has a dynamic street art scene. A street art walking tour with a local guide is a great way to find the best photo spots to capture the artwork.
All opinions expressed are Spotlight Sojourns’ own.
All content and images are original, created with care by yours truly, Marilee Kostadimas and Paul Kostadimas, not AI. We’re the Hidden Gemologists of Spotlight Sojourns: Award-winning travel experts, storytellers, and advocates of meaningful travel. Because meaningful travel is part of a meaningful life. And stories enrich the meaning.