Lisbon’s elevators, a practical and picturesque experience

Les ascenseurs & funiculaires de Lisbonne

Rise above Lisbon as you explore its picturesque elevators, veritable gems of architecture and technology.

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most charming capitals, with its pastel-colored Baroque buildings. Its many hills offer visitors not only splendid panoramas, but also some serious exercise. So, if you don’t fancy a cardio session during your vacation, taking the historic elevators and funiculars is an original way to discover Lisbon.

The most interesting are those designed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard over a century ago. They combine the practical with the aesthetic, with remarkable decorative motifs and are an integral part of Lisbon’s charm. Follow the guide to discover Lisbon’s various elevators and funiculars and the spectacular panoramic views they offer.

Take to the skies with the Santa Justa elevator

Elevador Santa Justa, Lisbonne

Shutterstock – eskystudio

  • 📍 S tarting point: Santa Justa, Lisbon
  • 👁 View of: Lisbon’s historic center
  • 💙 We like: the decorative motifs and the uniqueness of the place

TheSanta Justa elevator, built in 1902, is a must-see in Lisbon, as it is the only historic elevator in Portugal’s capital. With its neo-Gothic metal structure and height of 45.7 meters, it links the Baixa district, at Augusta Street level, to Chiado, offering a 360-degree panoramic view.

From the upper platform, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views over the Chiado district and the entire old center. Nearby tourist attractions include the Carmelite Convent Church, Rossio Square and the Sao Carlos National Theater. Our advice is to take it early in the morning after opening to avoid the long queue. Indeed, taking the Santa Justa elevator is a popular attraction with travelers.

Note that there is a 24-hour ticket offering unlimited travel and access to the Santa Justa elevator, the funicular da Glória and many other means of transport along the way.


Admire the Tagus from Bica

Le funiculaire de Bica à Lisbonne

Shutterstock – Nella

  • 📍 S tarting point: Chiado district
  • 👁 View of: Tagus river
  • 💙 We like: its hidden entrance and view of the Tagus river

Discover the Bica funicular, the city’s most photographed funicular, with its plunging view of the river. This elevator links Chiado and Bairro Alto, two of Lisbon’s historic districts. From the top, you have a panoramic view of the Tagus and the city. You’ll have to keep your eyes peeled to find it, as the entrance is located inside an old building on São Paulo Street.

Once at the top, you can visit the Eduardo VII Park, the Lisbon Botanical Gardens and the Lisbon National Museum of Ancient Art. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover Lisbon in a different way, and enjoy the spectacular views this historic elevator has to offer.


Climb to Bairro Alto with the Glória elevator

Le funiculaire de Gloria à Lisbonne

Shutterstock – ecstk22

  • 📍 S tarting point: Baixa district
  • 👁 View on: Saint-Georges castle
  • 💙 We love: The panoramic view, the best in town

When visiting Lisbon, don’t miss the ascenseur da Glória, one of the city’s first funicular railways, built in 1885. Like the others, it boasts a retro charm with its traditional white and yellow colors.

Make the most of the time spent climbing to admire the urban art frescoes that line the last stretch of the route. The views over the city of Lisbon and the castle from the Sao Pedro d’Alcantara viewpoint are magnificent. After this experience, you can head off to nearby tourist attractions such as St. George’s Castle, or visit the Principe Real district.


Get off the beaten track with Elevador do Lavra

Elevador (Funiculaire) do Lavra à Lisbonne

Shutterstock – kudla

  • 📍 S tarting point : Le largo da anunciada
  • 👁 View over: the city and the bay of Lisbon
  • 💙 We like: the steep slope and the gardens at the top

The Lavra funicular was the first to go into service. It also climbs the steepest slope. Taking this funicular is a departure from traditional routes, as it is located somewhat off-center in the city. The Elevador do Lavra links Rue das Portas de Santo Antão with the Torel Gardens, where you can enjoy a moment of relaxation and tranquillity, far from the crowds.

Nearby, you can also visit the Estrela Botanical Gardens, the National Museum of Natural History and Science, and Marquês de Pombal Square. You can also admire one of the city’s most beautiful hotels, the Torel Palace.


Take a ride on Lisbon’s historic elevators and funiculars and discover the city in a more unusual way. These remarkable means of transport offer superb panoramic views and are part of the capital’s charm. Which elevator do you prefer?