35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon

35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon | Porta do Sol

Are you passionate about photography? I am here to help you discover the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon and share useful photography tips.

Lisbon is a real treat of picturesque places, blending old-world charm with modern vibrancy. The city is a paradise for photographers, no matter if you are a professional or prefer to snap photos on your phone.

From the colorful azulejos of historic buildings to sweeping panoramic views that take your breath away, Lisbon has it all! This is why we have gathered an extensive list of the best Lisbon Instagram spots.

Fun fact, Lisbon was the place where we both found our love for photography! We started with a simple secondhand camera and simply learned by practicing every day. A couple of years later photography become a huge part of our job.

Who knows, maybe Lisbon will bring out your hidden photography talent as well. Well, I guess it is worth a shot, and we are here to guide you through the best photo spots in Lisbon. We will also include useful photo tips, equipment recommendations, and the best time to shoot.

If you think that this list is extensive, you are absolutely right, but after years of living in Lisbon, we want to share it all – from popular attractions to hidden gems.

So let’s dive in and unlock the Insta-worthy places in Lisbon together!

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

35 best photo spots in Lisbon + Photography Tips

Praça do Comércio

35 best photo spots in Lisbon + Photography Tips
35 best photo spots in Lisbon + Photography Tips

Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, is one of the largest and most majestic squares in Lisbon. This grand square opens directly onto the Tagus River and is surrounded by bright yellow Pombaline buildings.

The earthquake of 1755 devastated the square and much of Lisbon. After the disaster, the famous Marques of Pombal led the rebuilding, and the area was reconstructed with some of the world’s first anti-seismic buildings.

When it comes to photography, you have many different spots and you can experiment with the angles. You will want to capture the statue of King José I on horseback in the center, porticos, and the star of the square – Rua Augusta Arch.

This is one of the liveliest squares in Lisbon, so for a neat shot, you will need to wake up early, ideally photographing the square at sunrise. Alternatively, you come visit Praça do Comércio for sunset and embrace the crowds.

📸 Photography tips: come early, bring a wide-angle lens, and use a telephoto lens for some details.

Rua Augusta Arch

35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon
35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon

Next to the Praça do Comércio, you will find Rua Augusta Arch, linking it to the Baixa district. It is a popular photo spot in Lisbon and you simply can’t leave Portugal without an iconic photo of Rua Augusta Arch.

From the square, you can see statues of Jupiter and notable figures like Vasco da Gama and the Marques of Pombal. From Rua Augusta, you can appreciate a clock and span your perfect Lisbon postcard.

Similarly to the main square, you will want to wake up early to beat the crowds. Bonus points if you have the patience to wait for a vintage tram passing Praça do Comércio, because this way you can frame the tram right under the arch.

You can also climb to the top of the arch and enjoy the views over Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta, and Tagus River. It is open from 10 am to 7 pm, so it doesn’t align with an early wake-up call but is still worth a visit. The entrance fee is 4.50 euros and you can buy your ticket here.

If you are looking for a unique angle of the arch, head to Fábrica da Nata on Rua Augusta. Not only do they serve fantastic pastel de nata, but also offer a view from the second floor. I am sure you will love azulejos panel as well!

📸 Photography tips: come early and bring a wide-angle lens.

If you want to appreciate the beauty of Rua Augusta Arch directly from your accommodation, consider staying at the Unique Design Apartments. This top-rated apartment in the heart of Lisbon features a fantastic balcony and a view.

Lisbon Cathedral

Most Instagrammable Lisbon Spots
Most Instagrammable Lisbon Spots

The Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé de Lisboa, is the city’s oldest church, dating back to the 12th century. It has withstood numerous earthquakes and remains a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque.

The cathedral’s austere and historical significance make it a famous Lisbon Instagram spot. It is surrounded by winding streets and the iconic Tram 28 passes right in front of the Sé de Lisboa, which makes it picture-perfect.

If you decide to visit the interior of the cathedral, the entrance fee is 5 euros and you can buy your ticket here. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm from Monday to Saturday, however, I personally think the interior is a bit underwhelming, but the choice is yours.

📸 Photography tips: come early, use a wide-angle lens, and patiently wait for the tram to arrive. If you have a telephoto lens, follow Rua Augusto Rosa until Rua da Saudade and snap the edge of the Cathedral with the 25th of April Bridge peaking behind.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Igreja de Santa Luzia

best photo spots in Lisbon
best photo spots in Lisbon

Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of the best Lisbon photography spots and a mandatory stop in Alfama. This poetic viewpoint treats you with a fantastic view over the roofs of Alfama and the blue waters of the Tagus River.

Praça Júlio de Castilho and Igreja de Santa Luzia boast some of the best azueljos in Lisbon like a representation of the Terreiro Do Paço before the 1755 earthquake and Martim Moniz. During warm months, bougainvillea takes over the garden.

I have to say that this is my favorite Miradouro in Lisbon. Arguably, other viewpoints (that we will cover later on!) offer even better panoramic views, however, I love the combination of views, azulejos, a little patio, and a typical Portuguese church.

This viewpoint is public and accessible at any time of the day. You don’t need to buy a ticket to visit Miradouro de Santa Luzia either.

📸 Photography tips: if you want to take photos of yourself, early morning is a must. Instead, if you are looking for a photo of the best views in Lisbon, visit later in the day, preferably at sunset.

History of Lisbon Mural by Nuno Saraiva

most Instagrammable places in Lisbon

Hidden between Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol, History of Lisbon Mural by Nuno Saraiva is still considered one of the most underrated places in Lisbon for photos. 

To be fair, Alfama has so many beautiful photo locations that it is easy to get overwhelmed and miss places like this. But you won’t have this issue as I am here to help you and guide your way through the best photo spots in Lisbon.

As the name suggests, these paintings feature scenes from the history of Lisbon and a unique view of São Vicente de Fora. Unfortunately, sometimes these paintings are covered with graffiti (they renew it constantly though), so it’s better to focus on the view.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

best views in Lisbon
prettiest places in Lisbon

A few steps from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, find the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, which is another famous photo spot in Lisbon. The view from Portas do Sol is so similar to the one of Santa Luzia and yet so different!

While the Santa Luzia viewpoint offers a higher, more distant perspective, highlighting the rooftops and the church of Santo Estêvão, the Miradouro de Portas do Sol presents Alfama like a living painting, with the entire district spread out in front of your eyes.

From Portas do Sol, you also get an amazing view of the National Pantheon and the church of São Vicente de Fora, which aren’t as clearly visible from Santa Luzia. 

📸 Photography tips: wake up early, and play with your telephoto lens. Anything above 50mm will create a unique angle and capture postcard views.

Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora

lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots
lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots
lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots

While Igreja de São Vicente de Fora is one of the top Lisbon attractions, Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora is often left behind. Monastery is the place you want to visit if you are on the hunt for the best Lisbon Instagram spots.

The complex also includes a cloister, a chapter house, and a library. The monastery is known for its stunning tile panels, which depict scenes from the life of Saint Vincent and other biblical stories. And let’s not forget about the views from the top!

You can easily spend a couple of hours visiting Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora, especially if you are on a mission to get beautiful photos. 

It is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm and the last admission is at 5 pm. An adult ticket costs 8 euros, but you can get a reduced fare if you are under 25, over 65, or have a Lisbon Card. Children under the age of 12 can visit for free.

National Pantheon

Lisbon photos

The National Pantheon is one of the Insta-worthy places in Lisbon. Located in the historic Alfama district, this majestic building stands out with its striking white dome, which can be seen from many parts of the city.

Inside, you’ll find the final resting places of notable figures like Amália Rodrigues, the queen of Fado, and presidents such as Manuel de Arriaga and Óscar Carmona. There are also cenotaphs for Luís de Camões and Vasco da Gama, among others.

When it comes to photography, the interior is as beautiful as the exterior and deserves a visit. The Pantheon is closed on Mondays, but during the rest of the week, it is open from 10 am to 5 pm. The entrance fee is 8 euros and you can buy your ticket here.

📸 Photography tips: you don’t need to wake up early, because the area around Pantheon is never too packed. This means that with a bit of patience, you can get an amazing Lisbon postcard any time of the day.

Feira da Ladra

famous Lisbon Instagram spots
famous Lisbon Instagram spots

Feira da Ladra is the oldest flea market in Lisbon and originally it was a market for thieves who came to sell the stolen goods. In fact, the name in English translates to the “Thieves’ Market”.

Over the centuries, the market has moved locations several times before settling in its current spot at Campo de Santa Clara in the 19th century. It starts from the monastery of São Vicente de Fora and ends at the National Pantheon.

The market is known for its eclectic mix of goods, ranging from antiques and vintage items to modern crafts and everyday objects. Stalls are brimming with old books, vinyl records, vintage clothing, hand-crafted jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and much more.

Even if you are not planning to buy anything, you can snap some amazing photos, especially with a telephoto lens. If you are taking a photo of a person, always ask permission first, but I personally never had an issue with that.

📅 Feira da Ladra is held twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, from 9 am to 5 (Tue) or 7 pm (Sat). I recommend visiting around noon when the market is at its peak.

Rua da Galé

Rua da Galé, hidden photo spot in Lisbon
Casa São Miguel - the most Instagrammable cafes in Lisbon

Rua da Galé is a small alley hidden in the Alfama district. Alfama is a great place to wander around and discover secret photo spots in Lisbon, but I wanted to point out this location because it is tucked away and can be easily missed.

As you can imagine, this place doesn’t get crowded, so you can visit Rua da Galé any time without worrying about the crowds. This also means that you can experiment with different lenses and angles.

While you are there, don’t miss Casa São Miguel. It is one of the cutest pastry shops in Lisbon and serves great quality local goodies. I am pretty sure that you will want to snap a picture of this pretty cafe in Lisbon.

National Tile Museum

National Tile Museum - best places to take photos in Lisbon
National Tile Museum - best places to take photos in Lisbon

Every art lover has to visit the National Tile Museum in Lisbon. The museum features a wide collection of tiles spanning over five centuries, offering visitors a fascinating journey through Portugal’s tile-making tradition.

It is known for its impressive collection of azulejos, which includes decorative panels, individual tiles, and architectural elements from churches, palaces, and private residences throughout Portugal.

The Chapel located inside the museum is one of the most breathtaking places that I have seen. Beyond the golden details and artwork, you will find even more azulejos in this chapel.

As you can already tell, the National Tile Museum offers a lot of photo opportunities and deserves to be on the list of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon.

It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. The museum is closed on Sundays. The entrance fee is 8 euros and you can get your National Tile Museum entrance ticket here.

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Panoramic views of Lisbon

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is another great viewpoint that offers the best views in Lisbon. Located in the Bairro Alto district, this terraced garden provides a perfect platform to capture the Castelo de São Jorge, the Tagus River, and the sprawling city below.

This viewpoint offers a lively atmosphere and attracts street performers. Under the viewing platform, you will find a peaceful garden with multiple benches. In December, it hosts cute Christmas markets where you can get some festive goodies. 

If you are looking for the top places in Lisbon to take pictures at sunset, this is the place to be. Snap a selfie or play with your telephoto lens and I am sure you will get a lot of fantastic photos of Lisbon.

Santa Justa Lift

Elevador Santa Justa - best Lisbon photography spots
Elevador Santa Justa - best Lisbon photography spots

The Santa Justa Lift, or Elevador de Santa Justa, is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. This neo-Gothic structure was designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, and offers stunning views of the city from its top platform.

The detailed ironwork of the lift, combined with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit Instagram spot in Lisbon. It gains a different face once the sun sets and the lift gets lit, perfect for long-exposure photography.

Considering the long lines and short 5-minute ride, I highly recommend you skip taking this lift. Unless you find a short line, which can happen early in the day or during low season.

For a unique perspective, head to the rooftop bar located at the top of Pollux, have brunch at the Topo Chiado, or sunset drinks at the Rossio Gastrobar.

Rossio Square

Rossio square - best Lisbon Instagram spots
Rossio square - best Lisbon Instagram spots
Rossio Train Station - best Lisbon Instagram spots

Rossio Square, or Praça de D. Pedro IV, is one of Lisbon’s liveliest and most historical squares. The square is famous for its wavy mosaic pavements, known as calçada Portuguesa, and its two ornate fountains.

The most iconic building is the Rossio Train Station. It is an iconic Portuguese landmark and one of the prettiest places in Lisbon. Rossio station is famous for its Neo-Manueline façade, a style that characterizes several buildings in Lisbon.

📸 Photography tips: if you want to capture it empty, come early, however, I think that crowds add a charm to Rossio Square. Rossio Train Station is also amazing for long-exposure photography.

Casa do Alentejo

Casa do Alentejo - secret photography spots in Lisbon
Casa do Alentejo - secret photography spots in Lisbon

Casa do Alentejo is one of the best-kept secrets and hidden photography spots in Lisbon. The entrance of Casa do Alentejo can be easily overlooked if you’re not familiar with the location, so keep Google Maps around.

Built in the late 19th century as a palace for the Counts of Valenças, the Casa do Alentejo is a stunning example of Neo-Moorish architecture, featuring intricate tilework, ornate stucco decorations, and elegant Moorish arches. 

Originally constructed as a private residence, the building underwent a series of transformations after the family abandoned it. It served first as a casino, then as a social club, and even functioned as a school for a while.

The second floor of Casa do Alentejo, hosts a beautiful restaurant, which is beautiful to see and photograph, but not so great when it comes to food and service. It is open from midday to 3 pm and from 7 pm to 10.30 pm, so I recommend visiting during this time frame.

📸 Photography tips: you will want to bring your wide-angle lens to take in all the beauty of the Moorish-style patio.

Elevador do Lavra

Elevador do Lavra - most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
Elevador do Lavra - most Instagrammable places in Lisbon

The Elevador do Lavra is Lisbon’s oldest funicular, dating back to 1884. This charming yellow tram carries passengers up the steep Calçada do Lavra, connecting the Avenida da Liberdade with the Torel district.

Most tourists focus on Bica, Glória Funicular, Santa Justa, or Tram 28 and completely miss out on Elevador do Lavra. And do you know what is the best part? It brings you to the Pena area of Lisbon which holds many more hidden gems of Lisbon.

On top of that, this is your chance to get some amazing photos with the iconic yellow elevator any time of the day without fighting for a spot with other tourists and selfie sticks.

The lower stop is marked as Lavra – Lg. Anunciada on Google Maps and the upper stop is Lavra – R. Câmara Pestana. It is a short 5-minute ride but trying Elevador in Lisbon is a must and Elevador do Lavra offers a much more relaxing experience than other places.

📸 Photography tips: take some photos from the lower stop Lavra – Lg. Anunciada and then head mid-way once the elevator rails make a slight turn, which is another great photo spot. Considering few crowds, this is your chance to capture the interior as well.

Jardim do Torel and Calçada de Sant’Ana

Jardim do Torel - Instagram spots in Lisbon
Calçada de Sant'Ana - one of the hidden photo spots in Lisbon

Once you reach the top of the Elevador do Lavra, head directly to Jardim do Torel. This park is one of the most relaxing places in Lisbon and the view of the city is just a cherry on the cake. This park is loved by locals but is a complete gem among tourists.

Later on, make sure you head to Calçada de Sant’Ana and walk all the way down until you reach Praça do Rossio. Or you can walk the other way and head to Martim Moniz Square next.

If you ask me, this is one of the prettiest streets in Lisbon. You can photograph typical Portuguese houses, see Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Pena, and don’t miss the residence of the famous Portuguese singer Amália Rodrigues.

At the top of Calçada de Sant’Ana, you will find Torel Palace Lisbon, which is one of the best hotels in Lisbon with a view. If you are not a guest, you can still visit Black Pavilion Restaurant which offers a fantastic panorama of Lisbon.

Church of Nossa Senhora das Mercês

Church of Nossa Senhora das Mercês  - Lisbon photography
Church of Nossa Senhora das Mercês  - Lisbon photography

If you love photography, visiting the Church of Nossa Senhora das Mercês is an absolute must. Located in the heart of Santos, the facade is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and it is another secret photography spot in Lisbon.

The Church of Nossa Senhora das Mercês was originally founded in the 13th century by the Order of Mercy. The current building, however, dates back to the 18th century, when it was rebuilt in the Baroque style after sustaining damage from the devastating earthquake of 1755.

The opening times are very limited and I personally have never seen it open, despite visiting during opening times as indicated on Google. But if you find it open, make sure you see the interior as well.

📸 Photography tips: while the façade of the church is quite simple, Rua Vale offers a great photo opportunity. I think that is a great and unique spot, especially if you have a telephoto lens.

Largo do Intendente

Largo do Intendente - best Lisbon photography spots
Largo do Intendente - best Lisbon photography spots

Largo do Intendente is a charming square known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and cultural diversity. Situated in the Intendente neighborhood, this square has undergone significant revitalization, but I still consider it Lisbon’s hidden gem.

The square is surrounded by colorful buildings, many of which have been renovated and repurposed into trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops. The architecture of the square reflects Lisbon’s rich heritage, with a mix of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles.

The highlight of the square is the old Historic Viúva Lamego Ceramic Factory right next to the A Vida Portuguesa, which is a must-visit shop in Lisbon. Both of these places deserve to be included on the list of the best photo spots in Lisbon.

📸 Photography tips: this square attracts a lot of locals, but with a bit of patience you can take a great photo any time of the day.

Convento do Carmo

Lisbon photography

The Carmo Convent is one of Lisbon’s most fascinating historical sites. The convent was partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, leaving behind an open-air structure. This disaster struck on November 1st, All Saints’ Day when the convent was filled with locals.

Founded in 1389, the convent is built in the Gothic Manueline style, making it one of the rare examples of this architecture in Lisbon. After the earthquake, the convent was left without a roof as a tribute to the victims.

It is open from 10 am to 6 or 7 pm depending on the season. The convent is closed on Sundays. The adult entrance fee is 7 euros, but reduced fares are available. If you have a Lisbon card, it will cost you 5 euros instead.

📸 Photography tips: visit at the opening time to avoid any weird shadows and bring your wide-angle lens.

Pink Street

most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
most Instagrammable places in Lisbon

Pink Street or Rua Nova do Carvalho, is one of Lisbon’s most famous Instagram spots. The bold pink color of the street contrasts beautifully with the surrounding buildings, creating a perfect setting for photos of Lisbon.

When it comes to photography, it can be tricky to photograph Pink Street. Normally, I would suggest visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds, however, if you arrive before cleaning services, you will find it very dirty, especially after a busy nightlife.

Therefore, I would recommend visiting on a weekday and arriving around 8/9 am. Alternatively, I think it is a great photo spot in the evening and the crowds add a perfect liveliness to your photos.

Please note: as of 2024, colorful umbrellas are covering Pink Streets, which adds an extra layer of colors.

Ascensor da Bica

Ascensor da Bica - most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
Ascensor da Bica - most Instagrammable places in Lisbon

If there is one funicular in Lisbon that photographers love, it’s the Ascensor da Bica. Running through the narrow, steep Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, this funicular offers one of the most picturesque settings in the city.

The colorful buildings, traditional tiles, and the occasional glimpse of the Tagus River make this a must-visit photo spot in Lisbon. The upper stop is located at the Largo do Calhariz, which is where you want to be for that perfect shot.

The elevator starts to work at 7 am, but even before that, one of them is parked at the Largo do Calhariz. If you want to see the clean elevator without the graffiti, you will need to wait for the parked elevator to make its way to the top (around 7.15 am).

Once it reaches the upper stop, it stays parked for 10 minutes, which gives you time to take all the photos. For a different perspective, head to the Tv. da Laranjeira, which is on the right corner of the main road if you are walking from the top.

📸 Photography tips: for portrait photography, use a normal lens, but don’t be afraid to use your telephoto lens once the elevator leaves the stop – the sweet shot is when both cars pass each other side by side.

Mouraria & Rua João do Outeiro

hidden photo spots in Lisbon
hidden photo spots in Lisbon

Mouraria is one of Lisbon’s most historic and multicultural neighborhoods, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and narrow winding streets. Located just east of the city center, Mouraria is steeped in history and has long been associated with Lisbon’s Moorish past.

Today, Mouraria retains much of its traditional charm, with its labyrinthine streets, historic buildings, and lively squares. You can wander through its narrow alleys, and take photos of the colorful facades, ornate tiles, and hidden courtyards. 

I would say that Mouraria is a less popular cousin of Alfama which means that you can enjoy historical Lisbon without big crowds and busy streets. And Rua João do Outeiro is probably the best starting point to explore Mouraria.

This street is one of the lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots that you won’t find in other Lisbon photo guides. Once you reach Jasmim da Mouraria, make sure you stop by the cute square.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte - best views in Lisbon

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is one of Lisbon’s highest and most breathtaking viewpoints. Located in the Graça neighborhood, this miradouro offers a wide panoramic view over Lisbon.

From Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, you can see everything from the red-tiled rooftops of Alfama to the majestic Castelo de São Jorge, the Tagus River, and the distant Ponte 25 de Abril. 

The viewpoint is also home to the small chapel of Nossa Senhora do Monte, which adds a touch of serenity to the bustling cityscape below.

If you want to take portraits, you will want to visit this viewpoint at sunrise. Otherwise, sunset is a great time, because the atmosphere at this viewpoint is truly magical. And this means that you could stay after sunset and experiment with long exposure as well.

📸 Photography tips: I recommend using any regular lens to capture the wide panorama and put your telephoto lens to work afterward. You can get some amazing close-ups of iconic attractions from a completely different angle.

Embaixada

EmbaiXada - one of the best hidden gems in Lisbon
EmbaiXada - one of the best hidden gems in Lisbon

EmbaiXada is housed in a historic Moorish palace and inside you will find several concept stores, designers, and even a restaurant that is famous for its gin cocktail selection. Despite all the shops, it feels like you are visiting a museum.

All the beautiful details and unique architecture make it one of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. So even if you are not planning to shop or eat & drink, you can still visit Embaixada and take some wonderful Lisbon postcards.

It is open every day from midday to 8 pm with an exception for Sundays when it works from 11 am to 7 pm. Since it is a shopping center, there is no entrance fee and you can visit Embaixada for free.

📸 Photography tips: head up to the second floor for a unique perspective. Don’t forget to photograph the staircase as well!

Streets of Bairro Alto

famous Lisbon Instagram spots
famous Lisbon Instagram spots

Bairro Alto is one of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its lively nightlife, narrow streets, and colorful buildings. The area comes alive at night, with bars and restaurants spilling out onto the cobblestone streets. 

By day, Bairro Alto offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for exploring and photographing. The narrow streets, adorned with street art, azulejos, and vibrant facades, create a colorful and dynamic backdrop for photography.

I recommend taking Rua da Rosa from Bica and simply getting lost. There are no epic photo spots in Bairro Alto, but you will find a lot of cute corners and picturesque buildings, so this is your chance to get creative.

If you prefer evening photography and you are visiting Lisbon in summer, you will love the lively atmosphere and festive decorations, especially in June.

Tram 28

famous landmarks in Lisbon
famous landmarks in Lisbon

Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s most iconic symbols, offering a scenic ride through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. The tram winds its way through narrow streets, steep hills, and past famous landmarks.

When I first moved to Lisbon, I would snap a picture of the Tram 28 every time it would pass by (and it was a lot considering that my office was located in central Lisbon!). If you want to be prepared, you will want to save the best Tram 28 photo spots in Lisbon.

And in case you want to enjoy the ride on the iconic Tram 28, you will want to read this Tram 28 travel guide. We have put together great local insights and ways to avoid long lines & crowds.

Estrela Basilica and Jardim da Estrela

famous landmarks in Lisbon
famous landmarks in Lisbon

The Estrela Basilica, or Basílica da Estrela, is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful churches. Built-in the late 18th century, the basilica’s baroque and neoclassical design, with its massive dome and twin bell towers, dominates the surrounding area.

First, you will want to explore the interior of the Basilica, which is accessible for free. For a different perspective, head up to the terrace which requires a 5 euro entrance fee.

The nearby Jardim da Estrela is a peaceful garden that offers a serene setting for photography. Capture the basilica from the garden, using the trees and flowers to frame your shot. Even better if you can spot the famous Tram 28 passing in front of the Basilica.

Belem Tower

most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
most Instagrammable places in Lisbon

Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s top attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 16th century as a fortress to protect the city’s harbor and nowadays, it is part of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.

The tower’s stunning Manueline architecture, combined with its location on the banks of the Tagus River, makes it one of the best places to take photos in Lisbon.

When it comes to the interior, there is not much to see inside the Belem Tower and it can be visited in 30 minutes. Unless you have a lot of free time and you decide to purchase a Lisbon Card, don’t waste your time with the interior.

This is one of those places where a sunrise mission is a must! It quickly gets packed and it becomes almost impossible to get a good photo of Belem Tower.

📸 Photography tips: there are a lot of different ways to capture the beauty of Belem Tower. Jardim da Torre de Belém is the most popular perspective, but you can go on the promenade and get a side shot or frame it with the pathway before the crowds arrive.

Monument of the Discoveries

where to take photos in Lisbon

Another must-see spot in Belem is the Monument of the Discoveries, which is located right next to the Belem Tower. It symbolizes Lisbon and Portugal’s golden Age of Exploration.

Despite honoring historical times, the monument is relatively new. It was built in 1939 and inaugurated on August 9, 1960. It features notable figures from Portuguese history, including Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, and Afonso V.

Few people know that you can go to the top of the Monument of the Discoveries. A short elevator ride takes you to a fantastic view of the Monastery, the Belem Hills, and the iconic Mappa Mundi next to the monument.

You don’t need to pay to see the exterior of the monument, but the elevator to the top will cost you 10 euros. If you have a Lisbon Card, you have free access to Monument of the Discoveries. You can see the monument any time of the time, but the upper part is open from 10 am to 7 pm.

Jerónimos Monastery

Insta-worthy places in Lisbon
Insta-worthy places in Lisbon

The Monastery of Jeronimos is one of the most impressive religious buildings in all of Portugal and one of the Impressive sights of Belem. This means that you cannot leave Lisbon without getting that perfect shot!

The story of Jerónimos Monastery begins in the early 16th century. King Manuel I commissioned its construction in 1501 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India in 1498. This is another sight in Lisbon that resisted the earthquake of 1755.

The cloister is undoubtedly the most interesting part of the monastery. The monastery also hosts the Museum of Archeology which is now closed for renovation and plans to reopen in 2026.

Attached to the monastery find the Church of Santa Maria de Belém. It’s one of the best free places to see in Lisbon and you don’t want to miss it when visiting Belem!

The monastery opens at 9.30 am, so I recommend arriving a bit before opening time to enjoy the place without big crowds. As an alternative, you can visit a few hours before closing time which is at 6 pm. Please note that the monastery is closed on Mondays.

The entrance ticket costs 12 euros and you can buy it here. If you have a Lisbon card, you can access Jerónimos Monastery for free.

Garden Vasco da Gama and Pavilhão Sala Thai

secret photography spots in Lisbon

During your Belem itinerary, you should stop at the Garden Vasco da Gama located in the heart of Belem. Named after the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, the garden pays tribute to his contributions to the Age of Discovery.

Pavilhão Sala Thai is one of the highlights of the garden and a hidden gem in Belem. This is a little piece of Thailand in Portugal and I am sure you didn’t expect to see anything like that when visiting Belem.

The Sala Thai is a 22-foot-high Thai pavilion gifted by Thailand to Portugal. It was installed in the Belém Gardens in late 2011 to mark the 500th anniversary of the Portuguese arrival in Thailand. Built-in Bangkok, the pavilion was shipped to Lisbon.

It is certainly one of those unique photo spots in Lisbon and you will want to take a photo of it, especially if you are planning to visit the Belem area anyway.

Don’t forget to visit Pasteis de Belem when visiting the area. If you come early, you can easily get a table and enjoy one of the top things to do in Lisbon.

Ler Devagar in LX Factory

most Instagrammable places in Lisbon
most Instagrammable places in Lisbon

LX Factory is one of the most popular photo spots in Lisbon. It is housed in an old factory in the area of Alcantara. The space counts several art galleries, bars, boutiques, and Ler Devagar that you have seen all over social media. 

It is the highlight of the LX factory one of the most famous bookstores in all of Portugal (maybe even the world?!). I am sure you will want to see this bookshop and take some iconic photos as well.

Every Sunday you can find a flea market with vintage clothing and art, but during the rest of the week, you can shop in one of the many local boutiques. It also features a lot of street art, perfect for photo lovers.

It is open from 10.30 am to 10.30 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 10.30 pm on weekends. Despite the opening times, there is no entrance fee.

Santo Amaro Chapel and 25th of April Bridge

lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots
lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots

While the chapel itself is not the most impressive place in Lisbon, it offers a fantastic and very unique view of 25 April Bridge, which is one of the most picturesque attractions in Lisbon.

We used to offer a photoshoot that covers popular spots in Belem and ends with LX factory & this viewpoint and let me tell you that most customers loved this location the most.

If you ask me, this is one of the top places in Lisbon to take pictures at sunset and photography lovers will get a great angle of the famous bridge. You will see a lot of locals and kids playing around, but this is not a tourist attraction, so it offers a laid-back atmosphere.

Fronteira Palace

lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots
lesser-known Lisbon Instagram spots

Located further away from central Lisbon, Palace Fronteira definitely deserves to be on your Lisbon itinerary. It is a magnificent 17th-century mansion known for its exquisite azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles), lush gardens, and rich history.

Constructed in 1640 by Dom João de Mascarenhas, the first Marquess of Fronteira, the palace served as a private residence for the noble family and remains their home to this day. Yes, that is right. And despite that, you can still have access to the palace.

While the palace itself is one of a kind, visiting gardens is one of my personal favorites. Designed in the formal Baroque style, the gardens are divided into terraces and feature manicured hedges, statues, fountains, and ornamental lakes.

And can we talk a bit more about tiles again? It is one of the best places to see azulejos in Lisbon considering the massive tile work featured in the gardens and interior of the palace. How can it not be one of the most Instagrammable Lisbon spots?

If you are planning to visit the interior of the palace, you will need to join a guided tour. Available time slots are limited, so plan accordingly. You can pick a suitable time and buy your ticket here. Gardens are open from Monday to Saturday from 9.30 am to 6 pm (last entry at 5.30 pm).

Entrance ticket is 7 euros and kids under 12 can enter for free. You can purchase your ticket here or at the entrance of the complex.

Do you want beautiful photos from Lisbon?

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Final thoughts…

35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon

This is the end of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon and I am sure you are impatient to put your camera to some serious work! How many Lisbon photo spots did you save?

I would love to hear your feedback, so feel free to leave a comment below. If you need further help with planning, check out these Lisbon travel tips, hotel recommendations, or food guides.

Pin it for later and save the best photo spots in Lisbon!

35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon
35+ Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon

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