In a city chock full of viewpoints, Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a perfect lookout offering sweeping views over the Alfama neighborhood and Tagus River.
The Miradouro das Portas do Sol viewpoint, located in the popular neighborhood of Alfama, must be among the most photographed spots in Lisbon – and for good reason. The “Gateway of the Sun” name is quite accurate as crowds of locals and tourists flock to watch the sunsets.
This viewpoint is probably Lisbon’s most visited viewpoint by tourists, but the vibrant energy from vendors and musicians add to its charm. Chances are that you must have seen a photo of this miradouro already as there are several postcards featuring it.
In the middle of the beautiful terrace, you will find a statue of Sao Vicente (St. Vincent) the patron saint of Lisbon which has been standing there since 1949. The Miradouro das Portas do Sol is not only popular because of its stunning views but also because of its location on the route to the Castelo de São Jorge. Turn the corner and wait for the trolly to coast by – you’ll get an instant “postcard” shot for social media.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Lisbon, Portugal. Credit: Carry on Caro
This miradouro offers magnificent vistas over the Tagus River and the cruise ship terminal, two important landmarks: the Sao Vicente de Fora monastery and the National Pantheon and the terracotta roofs of Alfama. This is a great spot that showcases the true beauty of Alfama.
Even though this miradouro is packed most of the days, the most popular time to stop by is at sunset. If you can and are staying close by, try to visit it during sunset or early in the morning – you will have it all for yourself!
Popular tours
What to do
If you need to catch your breath after all the walking you have done, the Miradouro das Portas do Sol is the perfect spot to grab a drink and take in these magnificent views. There is a small kiosk which serves fruit juices, beers, wine, cocktails and coffee and gets very busy during the day as well as a larger café on the terrace. Near this miradouro you can also find souvenir shops, cute boutiques and winding streets.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Lisbon, Portugal. Credit: Carry on Caro
While you are visiting the miradouro, look for a staircase close to the kiosk (or follow the sign to the public restrooms) which leads downhill and take a left to find a tunnel covered in comic strips illustrating the history of Lisbon by muralist Nuno Saraiva.
Tunnel covered in comic strips illustrating the history of Lisbon. Lisbon, Portugal. Credit: Carry on Caro
How to get to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol
The Miradouro das Portas do Sol is located in Alfama which is easily reached by public transportation or on foot (prepare to get a good workout). Trams 12 and 18 which depart from Praça Martim Moniz conveniently stop across the streets from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol. You can also catch bus 737 which departs from Praça da Figueira and stops a few feet away from the miradouro.
There is no fee to enter this magnificent miradouro and is open 24/7.
Nearby attractions
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia (1 minute away): This viewpoint is located in the lower part of Alfama and next to a church that bears the same name.
- The Castelo de São Jorge (5 minutes away): This military fortress offers really nice views of Lisbon and you will get a chance to walk its walls and get inside the towers.
- Museum of Portuguese Decorative Arts (1 minute away): This museum features decorative arts from the 15th through 19th centuries.
- Se Cathedral (5 minutes away): Built in 1147, the Se Cathedral is the oldest and most important Roman Catholic Cathedral in the capital.
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