If you prefer a quieter and more residential atmosphere, Estrela is a great option. It’s home to the beautiful Estrela Basilica and the Jardim da Estrela park, providing a tranquil and green escape from the city. The neighborhood exudes a peaceful charm with its tree-lined streets and historic buildings. Enjoy leisurely walks in the park, explore local cafes, and soak in the serene ambiance. Estrela offers a relaxing haven in the heart of Lisbon
Estrela District Tourist Guide
The Estrela neighborhood is one of the most noble, quiet and safe residential areas of the city. It is located in the center of the city and only 13 km from the airport.
The Estrela district is located halfway up the hill between São Bento and Campo de Ourique in Lisbon’s center, and it offers a charming atmosphere. Even though it is slightly sloping, it is accessible on foot and not as steep as other neighborhoods such as Alfama or Bairro Alto. The district combines historic charm and modernity, and it captivates with its museums, green landscapes, and excellent restaurants. It is just a 15-minute walk from the city historical center, and it serves as a peaceful haven for both locals and visitors, providing a family atmosphere with the dynamic energy of urban life.
Best Things to Do and See in Estrela
Admire the Majestic Basilica of Lisbon
The Basílica da Estrela, one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon, stands out for its white dome that rises above the city. Built on one of the seven hills, it is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Inside, get stunned by the harmony of pink and black marble and don’t miss the tomb of Queen Maria I. The church, built in 1761, offers a unique experience with sculptures and fascinating lighting. Climb to its roof for a panoramic view of the city and the Tejo River. A must see that combines history, art and a unique perspective of Lisbon.
Delight in Jardim da Estrela's Beauty
Jardim da Estrela is a charming and relaxing public park and one of the most popular open spaces in the Portuguese capital. Built in the 19th century, Jardim da Estrela offers green areas for strolling, a children’s playground, a wrought-iron gazebo with music in the summer and a quiet café. Visitors can appreciate nature, with rare trees and plants, while enjoying moments of tranquility. The park also hosts events such as craft markets and music festivals, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
Discover Amália's Heritage
Explore the Casa-Museu Amália Rodrigues and immerse yourself in the life and art of the greatest fado singer in history. Located on Rua de São Bento, this yellow house was Amália’s home for over 40 years and offers an authentic and unforgettable experience. Discover the rooms decorated with furniture from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, stage costumes, jewelry and awards that bear witness to the unique career of this iconic artist. An essential visit to understand the essence and legacy of Amália Rodrigues.
Explore Lisbon's Secret Garden
Tapada das Necessidades, known as Lisbon’s Secret Garden, is a 10-hectare walled green treasure open to the public since 1910. Once the hunting grounds of the Portuguese monarchs, it is now a privileged place for picnics and relaxation. The park is home to rare trees from Asia, Africa and America, and it was here that Edouard Manet was inspired to paint his masterpiece “Le déjeuner sur l’herbe”. On weekends, families gather here to enjoy Lisbon’s hot summer days. A perfect place for moments of leisure and contemplation.
Discover Lisbon's Puppet Museum
Explore Lisbon’s Museu da Marioneta, located in the historic Convento das Bernardas. This attraction offers a fascinating journey through the history and diversity of puppets, with a collection of over 1000 pieces from around the world. From ancient traditions to contemporary puppets, the museum offers a unique cultural experience. In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the space promotes events, shows and workshops, offering a complete immersion in the art of puppetry. A must for those seeking culture and entertainment while in Lisbon.
Visit Lisbon's Historic Garden
The Jardim Lisboa Antiga, also known as the Jardim das Francesinhas, was built on the site of the former convent of Francesinhas. Inaugurated in 1949, this charming garden has a geometric layout, highlighted by the statue “A Família”, by Leopoldo de Almeida. With its well-kept grounds and Portuguese cobblestone staircases, it offers a peaceful refuge in the middle of the city. Known for hosting seasonal events such as the Mercado do Jardim, it is an unmissable attraction for exploring Lisbon’s landscape architecture.
Experience the National Museum of Ancient Art
Housed in a 19th-century palace overlooking the River Tagus, this museum features a vast collection of historical works, including medieval silver and gold objects, magnificent 19th-century baroque pieces, and decorative treasures from Africa, India, and China. Don’t miss the 16th-century Japanese Namban Folding Screens, offering insight into the Japanese fascination during their first encounter with Europeans. A must-visit for art history enthusiasts and those interested in Portugal’s cultural evolution.
Where to Stay in Estrela
We have curated a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference, from charming hotels to cozy apartments and enchanting guest houses. Our selection process involved considering the location of the accommodations, reliable reviews from our partner Booking.com, and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, which has 40 thousand enthusiastic members. These options have been selected carefully to make sure that your stay in Lisbon is truly memorable.
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Transportation in Estrela
Located in the center of Lisbon, Estrela offers several transportation options for visitors to explore the area. Although there is no metro station in the area, buses (709, 713, 720, 727, 738, 773 and 774) and trams (28 and 25) run through the neighborhood. Taxis and Ridesharing are also affordable ways to get around. You can also explore the area on foot, as it is hilly but not as steep as other neighborhoods in Lisbon. We recommend taking bus 709 from Praça dos Restauradores to Campo de Ourique, stopping in front of Jardim da Estrela and the Basilica. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Rato (yellow line) and walk to the Basilica along Avenida Álvares Cabral (about 10 minutes).
The map below highlights the primary stations of Estrela in red and the smaller stations in blue, making it easy to navigate your way around.
If you need more information on how to get around the city, check out our Transportation section.
Best Tours in Estrela
We have selected a diverse range of tour options to suit all budgets and preferences. Our selection was based on the reliable reviews of our partner GetYourGuide and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, with 40,000 passionate members. These options have been carefully selected to ensure that your stay in Lisbon is truly memorable.
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