With stunning views, historic landmarks and a vibrant culture, the Tagus River is the lifeblood of Lisbon and offers a variety of experiences that cater to every traveller. Here, the team at Visit Lisbon (https://www.visitlisboa.com/) recommends their must-include activities and attractions for an unforgettable short break exploring Lisbon’s riverfront.
River Cruises
A wide variety of river cruises offer a different perspective on Lisbon, with the recently refurbished Sul Sueste River Station providing the start point for a range of adventures. Options include daytime sightseeing for panoramic city views, romantic sunset cruises, gourmet dinner excursions with live music, personalised sailing yacht tours, flexible hop-on-hop-off water taxis for exploring the city, historical and cultural cruises with guided commentary and wildlife and nature adventures focusing on the Tagus Estuary’s ecosystems. The Sul Sueste Station’s eye-catching Art Deco design dates to the 1930s and the integrated Tagus Centre uses technology to bring the river’s history to life.
Riverside Parks
There are several picturesque parks to explore alongside the Tagus River. The newest is Parque Tejo, which was redeveloped for World Youth Day in 2023 and continues to receive investment for new developments. At more than 90 hectares, it’s the biggest green space in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações region and visitors can spot rare birds and enjoy a wide array of flora and fauna. Another option is the Tagus Estuary Linear Riverside Park, featuring more than 6 km of trails for walkers and cyclists, an amphitheatre, outdoor sports facilities and a bird observatory. This park also connects to the Parque Urbano da Póvoa de Santa Iria, where visitors can explore a museum and a replica of a traditional fisherman’s house. A third option is Ribeira das Naus, an old boatyard beautifully landscaped into a riverside promenade for leisurely walks, cycling and relaxing by the water to enjoy the best of Lisbon’s incredible light.
Historic Attractions
Tourists can discover the golden era of Lisbon with visits to iconic landmarks along the Tagus River. The Belém Tower is a 16th century fortress that served as a defensive stronghold, a ceremonial gateway to the city and a celebration of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. The tower’s intricate Manueline architecture is decorated with maritime motifs, elaborate carvings, ornate windows and imposing battlements and the interior is filled with winding steps leading to rooms packed with period details. Nearby, the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery showcases the grandeur of Portuguese architecture and visitors can explore its stunning cloisters, the church and the tombs of notable figures such as Vasco da Gama.
MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology
Overlooking the riverfront is MAAT, a contemporary cultural hub that celebrates art, architecture and technology. The museum combines a 100-year-old thermoelectric power station with a striking wave-shaped gallery designed by British architect Amanda Levete. Inside, visitors can explore exhibitions that remember the heyday of the electricity factory and learn about the history of the energy, alongside a variety of exciting installations and interactive and immersive experiences.
Wild Life
The Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve is a vital European wetland and a haven for diverse wildlife including flamingos, herons, storks, amphibians and small mammals. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, especially during migration seasons and explore the reserve by walking or cycling along well-maintained trails. The landscape features vast open water, green marshes and sandy shores, offering a serene escape. Guided tours and boat trips provide deeper insights into the estuary’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Lisbon Oceanarium
One of Europe’s largest aquariums, the Lisbon Oceanarium stands on the banks of the Tagus in Parque das Nações. Home to over 8,000 marine creatures including sharks, rays, penguins, and sea otters, highlights include a massive central tank with 360-degree views, and diverse marine habitats representing the North Atlantic, Antarctic, Temperate Pacific, and Tropical Indian Ocean.
For more information, ideas, and inspiration on visiting Lisbon and the Tagus River, go to www.visitlisboa.com.
