If Lisbon is on your list of places to visit you’ve probably poured over the many beautiful shots all over the internet of this extremely photogenic city. And, if that’s the case, you might be planning an entire afternoon, or even a full day, around where the best spots in Lisbon to get great photos – maybe even for the perfect Instagram shot of Lisbon. Pretty much everywhere you turn in Lisbon you’ll find another beautiful building with Azulejo tiles, a colorful street, and numerous alleyways covered with beautiful graffiti. You won’t have to go far to get incredible travel photos (or Instagram-worthy shots) while you’re in Lisbon.
So, in case you’re short on time or just want a guide on where to find the most photogenic spots in Lisbon, here’s a list of some of our favorite Instagrammable areas in Lisbon.
1. Belem Tower
Belém Tower is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its role in protecting Portugal’s coast during the Age of Discoveries and later. Portraying a combination of Gothic and Manueline architecture like the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower attracts visitors for its appearance as well as its role in history.
2. Carmo Convent
The Carmo convent is a former Roman Catholic convent that was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Presently, only the facade of the convent remains. It actually is a really interesting place since the roof of the convent is non longer there, you are greeted by a nice blue sky. The convent truly makes for a beautiful photo in the open air, because of how unique it is. Also be sure to visit the museum once inside, but beware of the mummified remains of children which can be viewed.
3. The Pink Road – Ruo Nova Do Carvalho
If you’re like me, you love PINK! It is actually very easy to find with multiple access points. Notoriously famous for its nightlife, and what was once the red light district. During the day, the street is an adorably colorful place to take photos and have coffee. At night, the street turns into the most popular party location in Lisbon, with multiple bars and discos open for business. The best time to visit is in the afternoon, if you don’t mind being patient, waiting for other viewers of the pink road to pass.
4. Elevador da Gloria
We couldn’t compile a list of the best photo spots in Lisbon without mentioning Elevador da Gloria. The trolly or funicular is located in Santo Antonio and is probably one of the most photographed bits of public transport apart from Tram 28. What makes this one of the best places to photograph in Lisbon, is the funicular itself is covered in colourful graffiti, and with the background consisting of colorful homes and cobbled streets, you have yourself an Instagram favorite.
5. Arco Da Rua Augusta & Praca Do Comercio
This arch and plaza can be crowded, and you will most likely be approached by many men selling sunglasses, and once you have rebuffed them, they will most likely open there other hand showing you hash, and offer to sell you that as well. Once you have escaped this enjoy Lisbon’s impressive monumental square situated directly on the riverfront and with its mosaic design it’s one of the most photogenic places.
6. Alfalma
One of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, Alfama is a charming maze of cobblestone streets and colorful house. Take a walk through the streets, explore all the tiny quarters and beautiful houses. There really isn’t a wrong way to go as you walk around and get lost among the tiled buildings. Make sure you wear shoes that are good for walking as you will go up and down some hills in this area. If you are wanting to visit Castelo de Sao Jorge, this can also be found in Alfalma.
7. Pena Palace and Sinatra
Perched on the western fringes of Portugal, it’s one of the most magical and best places in Portugal to explore. Yeah, that might sound a bit cheesy but it really is how it feels. I only had the time to explore Pena Palace, but would have also liked to visit the Castle of the Moors, Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace.
8. Escape to Algarve
Take a trip, I recommend staying at least a night. Algarve is seriously a dream. Between the breathtaking coastline and majestic coves and grottos to the deep blue waters and stunning beaches, the Algarve is truly unlike anywhere else, and an absolute must if you are planning a trip to Portugal.
