What are the Best Parks in Lisbon?

Wondering what the best parks are in Lisbon? Direct Owners has put together a helpful list of our favourite parks. Click to find out more!

What are the Best Parks in Lisbon?

After many many months stuck inside during the covid pandemic, parks and green space in cities are even more important than they were before. And they are what many of us are craving most. In the summer, Lisbon’s parks are resplendent, with some of the most beautiful green spaces of any city in Europe. And even when the Northern Hemisphere winds down into winter, the parks in Lisbon look amazing and are well worth visiting. If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon in the near future, you need to add at least one or two parks to your trip itinerary. This is why we’ve written this guide to the best parks in Lisbon. If you’re also looking for some great accommodation, consider Direct Owners and please get in touch if you have any questions. 

Parque Florestal de Monsanto

Known in English as Monsanto Forest Park, but often referred to affectionately as ‘Lisbon’s Lung’, this area was originally a private hunting grounds. Today, it’s one of the most popular parks in the entire city. With a little over 10 hectares of woodland to explore, there is plenty to see here. Most of the trees are eucalyptus, and they grow to tremendous heights. There are well-made hiking trails throughout Monsanto Forest Park; this makes things easier for people who prefer to stay on the beaten path. But feel free to get off the path and explore to your heart’s content. Within the otherwise wild forest, you’ll find small pockets of well-maintained gardens that stick out like little colourful oases complete with flower beds and water fountains. There are also several lookout points throughout the park that let you look out over the parkland and the city beyond it.

Parque Do Palacio Pena

While Parque Do Palacio Pena is technically just outside of Lisbon, for all intents and purposes, it is considered part of the city. And it’s good enough to deserve the slight bending of the rules to make it onto our list… We advise that you reserve at least half a day to see as much of Parque Do Palacio Pena as possible. Of course, most people visit to see Palacio de Pena (the National Palace of Pena) — a gorgeous palace that stands out against the verdant gardens with its colourful walls and unique architecture. You should absolutely visit the palace, but this is a guide to Portugal’s parks, so we’ll focus on the incredible surrounding parkland. The park includes plenty of grass and woodland that are perfect for anyone who likes a ramble. At the highest points of the park you can see the ocean, and what a sight it is!

Parque Eduardo VIII

It might surprise some readers that Parque Eduardo VIII has made the list. After all, this is arguably the city’s best-known park and requires little introduction. In fact, given that it is 62 acres in the city centre, it’s hard to miss. But we recommend that you walk into this park and look around. You’ll find Parque Eduardo VIII at the top of Avenida da Liberdade, making it very convenient if you need to get off the busy streets and get your daily dose of green! As you might have guessed, this park was named after King Edward VII of Britain. He was given the honour after he visited Lisbon in 1903 in order to cement the alliance between the countries.

Jardim Da Estrela

You’ll find the Jardim Da Estrela opposite the 18^th century Basilica da Estrela, one of Lisbon’s most historic landmarks. For many, Jardim Da Estrela is the most beautiful park in Lisbon, and it is especially attractive in the summertime. The grass is well maintained, there is a magnificent lake full of geese and ducks. There are often fairs and other events held here, making the Estrela Gardens a great place to come if you want to get a feel for the culture of Lisbon. Yes, tourists come here, but the locals also love it! An interesting feature of the Estrela Gardens is the open-air library. You can come to brush up on your Portuguese or simply just to take in the sights.

That’s all we have time for today. We hope we’ve inspired a few readers to visit some of our favourite parks. Needless to say, this list isn’t exhaustive; it’s just a few of our favourite places. Lisbon’s parks are particularly special, so we’re sure you’ll have a nice time wherever you choose to go.