Photography Guide: Lisbon

7 essential spots + ideal timing in Portugal's capital

Detailed 7-day itinerary: Lisbon, Sintra and Porto

⏰ Best time: 8am-9am (golden light, no tourists)

Panoramic view of Alfama neighborhood + Tagus River. Beautiful decorative azulejo tiles on the walls. FREE and always open.

💡 Tip: Combine with Portas do Sol Viewpoint (50m away) - two views in one walk.

How to get there: Tram 28 or 12E to Santa Luzia Viewpoint

⏰ Best time: 7am-8am (less crowded)

Lisbon icon passing through Alfama's narrow streets. Photograph at Rua das Escolas Gerais (classic angle).

⚠️ Avoid: 10am-6pm (maximum capacity). Watch for pickpockets inside!

Fare: €3 single ride or included in 24h pass (€6.80)

⏰ Best time: 9am opening OR 5pm-6pm (sunset)

Manueline tower on the Tagus River. Photograph from opposite bank (underground passage) to frame complete with water.

Entrance: €6 | Hours: 10am-5:30pm (closed Mondays)

Real budget for Lisbon and Porto: Budget, Mid-range and Premium

⏰ Best time: Golden hour (6pm-7pm) for illuminated facade

Manueline architecture masterpiece in Belém. Exterior facade photographable FREE. Interior €10 - spectacular cloister.

Tip: Try the original Pastéis de Belém (€1.30) at the factory next door.

⏰ Best time: 9am opening OR 8pm-9pm (illuminated at night)

Neo-Gothic iron elevator connecting Baixa to Carmo. Photograph from Rua do Carmo (complete tower perspective).

To go up: €5.30 | Top view is good but not spectacular (viewpoints are better and free)

⏰ Best time: 9:30am opening (morning mist = magical photos)

Colorful romantic palace atop the mountain. Sintra usually has morning mist = fairy tale atmosphere!

💡 Perfect angle: From lower gardens (included in entrance) looking up at palace on top.

How to get there: Train from Lisbon (40min, €2.35) + bus 434 in Sintra

Entrance: €14 (book online to avoid huge lines)

⏰ Best time: Sunset (6pm-7pm summer, 5pm-6pm winter)

Iconic suspension bridge (Golden Gate style). Best angles: Cristo Rei (Almada, other side) or LX Factory (underneath).

Cristo Rei: Ferry €1.30 or Uber €10. 360° view of Lisbon + bridge.

Complete visual tour of photography spots