Parks and gardens of Lisbon are very diverse. Some parks resemble a small forest in the city, but others are well-groomed and offer their visitors a lot of entertainments. However, all of them have a rich history.
We will try to reveal to you all the secrets of city parks of Lisbon, and tell you about the most significant and interesting spots…
Jardim do Torel
The garden is situated on one of the seven hills of Lisbon-Santana Hill. The hill overlooks Tejo River and Avenida da Liberdade providing the amazing panoramas, especially in the evening.
Jardim do Torel is a quiet, not crowded place where you can relax after walks around the city. There are comfortable benches with small stands to put tired feet on them. Also, there’s a playground as well as a cozy café with beautiful terrace.
In summer, the garden’s fountain turns into a city beach, which starts working at 10am. The depth of the pool is just 1.2-1.8 meters, but it’s enough to cool down in the summer heat. Sun beds, umbrellas, shower, free Wi-Fi access are also available.
Jardim do Torel is very popular among locals who love it for privacy and amazingly beautiful sunsets.
Address: R. Júlio de Andrade
Tapada das Necessidades
Tapada das Necessidades is an ideal garden for romantic walks. Built by order of Joao V in 1742, this garden belonged to the monastery and the Necessidades palace, and after the establishment of the Republic, the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was located there.
Nowadays, this garden has already been partially restored, but it remains to be little known for many residents of Lisbon. Those who know this secret place, come there to take a walk or have a picnic enjoying a fascinating view of Ponte 25 de April.
Tapada das Necessidades is an excellent destination to stroll along the banks of ponds breathing in the fresh air. A lot of different kinds of trees grow in the garden. In addition, you can visit the Cactus Garden (one of the oldest in Europe), the Round Greenhouse as well as feed ducks and geese.
Address: Calçada Necessidades
Jardim da Cerca da Graca
Jardim da Cerca da Graca is a pretty new park. It should have been opened in 2009, but something went wrong. And only in 2015 works on the improvement of the territory were completed.
Now this is a great place with breathtaking views. Almost two hectares of the park features beautiful lawns and a special picnic zone. If you travel with kids, then this garden will be very attractive spot because of the fact that there is an excellent playground. Therefore while your kid will play there, you can relax sitting on the terrace of the local café.
The entire picnic area is planted with citrus trees: oranges and clementines. In the shade of the trees you can not only have a snack, but also play with your children. A small cozy kiosk offers drinks and ice-cream.
By the way, Cerca da Graca connects the two historic districts of Mauraria and Grasse. Also, the garden features one of the most famous Lisbon’s observation platforms – miradouro da Graca.
Address: Calçada Do Monte 46
Parque Eduardo VII
Parque Eduardo VII is situated north of Avenida da Liberdade, just behind the Marquesa Pombal Square. It’s one of the largest Lisbon’s city parks.
On the 25 hectares of the park you can find the Pavilion of Sport, known as the Carlos Lopes Pavilion. On its walls you’ll see a very beautiful traditional azulejo.
Also, there’s a restaurant with a spacious terrace overlooking a small pond with sculptures.
On the west side of Parque Eduardo VII there’s glass greenhouse Ashtooth Kentwith with tropical plants. Trees and plants from five continents are collected there. This is a real green museum full of harmony and tranquility.
The observation deck is situated in the highest part of the park. You can see there the biggest flag of Portugal, which is changed quite often because of the strong winds. A sports club and tennis courts are available for adults, as well as a small playground for kids.
Parque Eduardo VII is one of the symbols of modern Lisbon, which shouldn’t be missed.
Address: 1070-051 Lisbon
Jardim da Alameda
The garden is named in honor of the first king of Portugal. It’s very popular among local residents and especially among students, because the Technical Institute is located nearby. Jardim da Alameda is situated at the junction of three districts of Lisbon – Arroios, Areeiro and Penha da Franca.
There are many cafes, restaurants and shops there. There is everything for convenience and relaxing: underground parking, playground and a huge open space.
The major highlight of the park is Fonte Luminosa – a monumental glowing fountain. You can observe this phenomenon several times a day from 12pm till 3pm and from 6pm till 11pm. Of course, the best time to visit the fountain is evening, before sunset. At this time, the light is especially mild.
When it’s getting dark, the backlight turns on and highlights the grandeur of the construction with beautiful radiance.
Address: Alameda Dom Alonso Henriques
Indeed, Lisbon’s parks are just incredible and give the opportunity of complete relaxation and unity with nature. So, don’t miss this advantage and visit at least one of them during your trip. By the way, you can use Lisbon car rental service for a fast and easy searching of these parks.
