Situated along the picturesque banks of the Tagus river, Lisbon, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.
One of the most charming features of this European gem is its famous seven hills, each offering a unique perspective of the city and contributing to its distinct charm.
Join us on a virtual journey as we explore the cultural treasures and breathtaking views of Lisbon's seven hills: Castle, São Vicente, Graça, Sant'Ana, São Roque, Chagas, and Santa Catarina.
1 - Castle
A Historic Citadel
Our journey begins on Castle Hill, the epicenter of Lisbon's history. Crowned by São Jorge Castle, this hill offers panoramic views of the city and the river.
Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets, you'll encounter historical landmarks like Lisbon Cathedral and the Alfama district, reflecting the city's Moorish past.
Embrace the medieval charm and immerse yourself in the stories echoing through the castle walls.
2 - São Vicente Hill and Alfama
Tracing the Roots of Fado
Venturing into São Vicente Hill, you'll discover the moving melodies of Fado echoing through the air. This neighborhood is known for its Fado houses, where the melancholic Portuguese musical genre has been cultivated for centuries.
Lose yourself in the narrow alleys adorned with vibrant street art and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of this bohemian district.
The Campo de Santa Clara Garden is the ideal spot for a coffee, offering fantastic views of the Tagus river, the National Pantheon, and the majestic São Vicente de Fora Monastery.
On Tuesdays and Saturdays, this area comes to life with the most traditional flea market in Lisbon – Feira da Ladra.
3 - Graça Hill
Majestic Views and the Convent of Graça
Ascending Graça Hill, prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning panoramic views from the Senhora do Monte viewpoint.
Marvel at the urban landscape, with the Tagus River winding below and iconic landmarks dotting the horizon.
A little further down, you'll find also the Graça viewpoint (a must-visit) where you can see the Castle and take the opportunity to visit the Church and part of the Monastery (chapel, cloisters, and dining hall) located on this site.
4 - Sant'Ana Hill
The Lesser-Known Hill
Considered the central hill of Lisbon, this is the least known and visited by tourists.
It's home to one of Lisbon's most important hospitals and a medical university, making this area closely tied to medicine.
At the top of this hill, like in all others, there's a wonderful viewpoint offering a different perspective of Lisbon.
In the surrounding area, you can observe ducks, chickens, roosters, and geese freely roaming the streets.
5 - São Roque
Baroque Splendor
A visit to this hill is also a must. Here, you can explore the beautiful Church of São Roque and its treasures (be surprised by its interior), the ruins of the Carmo Convent, the top of the Santa Justa and Glória Elevator, and one of Lisbon's most famous viewpoints – São Pedro de Alcântara.
6 - Chagas Hill
The Heart of Lisbon
Chagas Hill, where the famous and chic Chiado neighborhood is located, is considered the heart of the city's social life and the most vibrant of all hills.
During the day, explore historic churches, charming squares, the opera, museums, and some of Lisbon's most historic shops, such as Bertrand, the oldest bookstore in the world.
Oh, and don't forget to have coffee, tea, beer, or natural juice at Brasileira or Benard, two of Lisbon's most tradicional coffee shops.
7 - Santa Catarina
Sunset Celebration
The journey should end at the Santa Catarina viewpoint, the ideal place to watch the sunset. Here, you can enjoy a tranquil sunset over the Tagus river while watching various street artists showcase their musical talents.
The seven hills of Lisbon weave a tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Each hill offers a distinct experience, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Whether strolling through medieval streets, savoring local flavors, or appreciating panoramic views, Lisbon's hills promise an unforgettable journey through time and charm.
A toast to the hills that have witnessed centuries of stories and to the city that continues to captivate hearts around the world.
To visit these hills, we organize guided electric bike tours every day, giving you the opportunity to get to know all these hills in about 4 hours.
