The 13 Best Parks in Lisbon: The Most Beautiful Gardens for a Perfect Day Out 2023

Are you looking for parks in Lisbon? It’s actually one of the greenest capitals in Europe!

It’s no surprise that it is home to some of the most picturesque parks in all of Portugal. From classical gardens to large open spaces, Lisbon has an amazing array of gardens that make for the perfect day out walking.

With children, going to the park becomes an almost daily event, so I’ve always needed to have a variety of options to make sure both Luca and I have a great time when we’re out and about in town. One of my favorite things about Lisbon’s downtown area is how green it is!

I’ve compiled a list of the 13 best Lisbon parks, so you can make sure that your visit to this stunning city is filled with good times in the shade of a tree or two and maybe even a ride down a slide!

The 13 Best Parks in Lisbon

1. Parque Eduardo VII

Located right above Liberdade Avenue, and flanked by Marques de Pombal square, Parque Eduardo VII is a great place to start downtown for any tourist visiting Lisbon.

Although the park is rather sparse, its 62 acres of beautiful mosaics and the Estufa Fria greenhouse make for a great walk in the sunshine with stunning views of downtown Lisbon. The Estufa Fria has an impressive variety of tropical plants, exotic palms, and cacti, all grown without the aid of any heating system.

The park is also the site of the yearly Lisbon Book Fair in spring and Winter Wonderland fair over Christmas, so there’s action here all year round. Whether you’re looking for a pleasant stroll or want to explore the lush vegetation, Parque Eduardo VII is an excellent place to start your Lisbon adventure.

🔴Top Tip!!! Start your tour of Lisbon’s center by getting off at Sao Sebastiao metro station and have a coffee at Linha D’Agua cafe by the water before meandering down the promenade through Parque Eduardo VII. The views of Lisbon’s center really make it worth your while!

2. Jardim Botânico Da Ajuda

The Jardim Botânico da Ajuda is a must-see for any tourist visiting Lisbon who’s looking to relax in the sunshine while surrounded by beautiful gardens and lush vegetation. It’s a great garden to visit since you can also visit the Palacio de Ajuda right next door.

This botanical garden is the oldest in the city and has stunning views of the Abril 25 bridge, so visitors can appreciate Lisbon’s beauty from a whole different perspective.

The garden also has an onsite shop, selling various souvenirs, and the highly regarded Estufal Real restaurant that serves up lunch. Sunday brunch in particular is popular amongst visitors.

One of the garden’s highlights is its 400-year-old Madeiran dragon tree, which stands proudly in the center of the garden, as well as its beautiful orchid greenhouse.

To get here take an Uber, or tram #3 and then bus 12 from Cais de Sodre Metro station.

3. Monsanto Forest Park

The Monsanto Forest Park offers a perfect day out for visitors wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature’s beauty. With 1000 hectares of lush eucalyptus woodlands and stunning landscaped gardens, it is the largest green area in all of Lisbon.

The park has several lookout points, offering incredible views of the city from above. It is also home to a wide range of events including concerts, exhibitions and fairs. Onsite facilities include the Monsanto municipal camping park, the ecological park as well as three other leisure and theme parks.

Since it is out of town, the best way to reach the park is by car rental or Uber – so pack your picnic and come enjoy the refreshing green space that is Monsanto Forest Park.

4. Gulbenkian Garden

The Gulbenkian Garden in Lisbon is a beautiful cultural treasure that is sure to delight any tourist looking for something special. Located within the grounds of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, this stunning garden offers incredible views and a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

From sculptures by local and international artists scattered throughout the gardens, to regular book readings and theater productions at its open-air theatre – there’s something here to please all art lovers!

Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or simply want to relax in nature’s beauty, don’t miss this cultural gem.

To get here get off at Sao Sebastiao Metro station and walk the 5 minutes.

5. Parque Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles

Parque Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles is the newest park to grace Lisbon’s center and it offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Portugal. Located within easy reach of Gulbenkian and Corredor Verde de Monsanto, this urban park features only native flora, creating an environment that promotes local biodiversity.

From bike-sharing stations to children’s playgrounds and walking paths, there are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy here. What makes this green space so special is its commitment to sustainability – the park has been created in such a way that minimal maintenance and irrigation are necessary.

Recent efforts to promote local biodiversity also mean that more local fauna are flocking here than ever before!

To get here get of at Praça da Espanha metro station, which is right in the middle of the park.

6. Jardim da Estrela

Parque da Estrela is a must-see for tourists spending the day in Lisbon’s center. This beautiful park is a true oasis in the city, with its lush lawns and breathtaking gardens offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

It’s also incredibly romantic, with its 19th-century wrought-iron gazebo and waterfront cafe setting the perfect backdrop for couples looking for a relaxing afternoon. Families will be delighted to know that there’s an adventure playground for kids, as well as a pond full of ducks and geese, making it ideal for all ages.

Plus, visitors can get here easily – just hop on tram 28! So, don’t miss out on this charming park – it’s sure to be one of the highlights of your trip!

To get here get off at Rato metro station and walk the 10 minutes.

7. Lisbon’s Botanical Garden

Lisbon’s botanical garden is a true delight for tourists looking for a unique cultural experience. Located in Principe Real next to the Parque do Principe Real, this beautiful garden offers a lush exposition of plants and trees from around the world.

It was originally created as a scientific project for the students of the nearby Museum of Natural History, and it continues to serve an educational purpose today. Here, visitors can explore more than 2000 species of flora from distant lands, making you travel to another time and place in an instant.

Not only is this a great opportunity to learn about the world’s plants, but it is also one of the few places in Lisbon that offers guided tours and educational activities for kids – perfect for families looking for something special to do together!

To get here get off at Rato Metro station and walk the 10 minutes.

8. Parque do Principe Real

Parque do Principe Real is a beautiful park located in the heart of Lisbon, and it offers visitors an oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

With its lush green space, locals enjoying a 15-minute coffee break, and picturesque mansions surrounding the square of green park, it’s a great place to spend some time relaxing in the shade.

You can stroll through the grounds admiring the Neo-Moorish style palace right across the way from the park or take refuge from the heat under the huge cedar tree whose branches create an impressive natural ‘umbrella’.

On Saturdays, there is a bustling organic farmer’s market and on the last Saturday of each month, an antiques and crafts market takes place.

This square is right across from the Lisbon Botanical Gardens, so see them both at the same time!

9. Monteiro-Mor Botanical Park

The Monteiro-Mor Botanical Park in Lisbon is a great place to visit for tourists looking for something different. Located just outside of the city center at the Lumiar metro station, this park was originally planned in the 1700s as a retreat for the up-and-coming nobility in Lisbon.

It has many exotic plants and two small museums with interesting things to see. In the Museum of Costumes, you’ll find interesting garments and outfits from the romantic era to the present, and in the National Museum of Theater, you’ll get a glimpse into Lisbon’s theater history.

The park is also beautiful with its steep topography, stairs, and winding walking paths. It’s a great destination for those looking for something off the beaten track and it offers a truly unique experience.

10. Mirador de Sao Pedro de Alcantara 

Mirador de São Pedro de Alcantara is one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon, offering a stunning vista of the city as far away as Alfama and Lisbon Castle. Nestled in the Bairro Alto district, this urban park provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still allowing visitors to get close to the city’s landmarks.

The park is surrounded by sculptures of Greek gods and goddesses, benches for sitting and admiring the views, an ornamental fountain, and a cafe with outdoor seating. It’s also perfect for those looking for a great place to start their night out in Lisbon – locals are known to gather here before they head out for the evening.

Don’t miss out on a chance to experience this iconic view of Lisbon with a glass of wine or a beer – it’s sure to be one of the highlights of your trip!

11. Miradouro de Santa Catarina- Adamastor

Adamastor viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina is a popular destination for tourists looking to take in the breathtaking views of Lisbon.

At sunset, visitors can marvel at the sight of Alfama and the classic view of the Christ and Lisbon’s suspension bridge while enjoying a glass of wine or beer from the nearby kiosk.

This small square is also a great spot for lazy afternoons in good company and is usually packed with people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying the sunshine and the view.

If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, don’t miss out on the chance to visit Pharmacia Felicidade – a wonderful restaurant and bar right across Adamastor with a lovely terrace boasting those same views of the city.

12. Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for an afternoon of exploration and discovery in Lisbon.

This urban park lines the Tagus River and was the site of Expo 1998, and today offers visitors a chance to explore contemporary architectural landmarks such as Lisbon’s Oceanárium, the Camões Theatre, the Pavilhão de Portugal, as well as the Oriente train station and the UFO-shaped Altice Arena.

It’s also home to several restaurants, cafes, interesting street art, and the glass-roofed Centro da Gama shopping center and Estacao do Oriente.

Don’t miss out on the cable car ride, which provides stunning views of the city and river from above. Parque das Nações is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon in Lisbon and is sure to leave you with a sense of awe and wonder!

13.Jardim Botanico Tropical

Jardim Botanico Tropical is a tranquil oasis in the middle of Lisbon, perfect for those looking for a few hours of peace and relaxation. This vibrant garden boasts an array of tropical and subtropical plants, exotic trees, and plants from Portugal’s former colonies in Asia and Africa.

You’ll also find lush date palm, fig, and monkey puzzle trees, as well as a butterfly greenhouse – the only one in Europe open to the public. My little boy loves visiting this spot and always enjoys feeding the ducks and running around under the canopy.

This park also has had several evening light show exhibits in the past few years so check out the events happening in Lisbon’s parks since this is an interesting way park administrators have found to popularize some of Lisbon’s most beautiful parks.

Map of Gardens in Lisbon

Best Lisbon Parks FAQ

The 13 Best Lisbon Gardens: The Wrap-Up

Lisbon is an amazing city full of stunning parks and gardens. The possibilities are endless when visiting this vibrant city so get out and explore all that Lisbon has to offer today!