THIS CAFE LIFE

From Graça’s Heights: Rooftops, Viewpoints, and Local Charm

This Cafe Life
Aug 8
4 min read

Updated: Sep 18

Perched high above Lisbon’s busy downtown, Graça is the kind of neighborhood that sneaks up on you—in the best way. It’s where quiet streets open up to jaw-dropping views, red-tiled rooftops stretch toward the river, and locals gather in shady squares like it’s just another easy afternoon. Whether you’re chasing miradouros, spotting street art, or just grabbing a coffee with a view, Graça offers a slower, more scenic side of the city that feels both lived-in and unforgettable.

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In This Guide:

Walking Tour
Where to Stay
Culinary Highlights
Street Art

Walking Tour of Graça

Duration: 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace

Our Lady of the Mount Chapel & Viewpoint (Miradouro da Senhora do Monte) (Starting Point) - The Chapel, built around 1147, though the current structure dates to the 18th century is dedicated to Our Lady of the Mount (Nossa Senhora do Monte) a protector figure for Lisbon’s citizens - especially pregnant women, who would come here to pray for safe childbirth. The legend says St. Gens, a Lisbon-born martyr, preached here, and there’s a stone chair nearby that is said to bring good fortune to expecting mothers. The chapel is small and usually closed, though sometimes open on religious feast days. There is a peaceful terrace shaded by pine and olive trees, and one of Lisbon’s most stunning viewpoints with panoramic views over the city’s rooftops, the castle, the river, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Street Art on Escadinhas Damasceno Monteiro - Just downhill from the miradouro. Walk down this stairway to spot murals by renowned artists like Vhils and Shepard Fairey. It’s one of Lisbon’s best open-air street art galleries.

Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen Viewpoint (Miradouro da Graça) - Another of Lisbon's 7 scenic outlooks.

The Church & Convent of Graça (Igreja e Convento da Graça) - Thie highest point in Lisbon, in the small square of Largo da Graça, The Church and Convent of Graça was built in 1291 and is one of the oldest convents in Lisbon. Following extensive damage caused by the devastating earthquake of 1755, the Church and Convent were greatly restored, with baroque interiors and azulejo-covered chapels. You can also climb the bell tower (if open) for more views.

Graça Garden (Jardim da Cerca da Graça) - One of Lisbon’s largest public gardens covering three terraces carved into the hillside. Large green lawns, shady trees, and wide stone steps make it ideal for picnics or reading in the sun. There's a small kiosk café with seating—perfect for grabbing a drink and soaking up the atmosphere.

Church of Saint Vincent Outside the Walls (Igreja de São Vicente de Fora) - Dedicated to Saint Vincent, the patron saint of Lisbon, it has been on the most significant churches. Seek out the unique cloister featuring blue-and-white azulejos depicting the fables of La Fontaine, a surprising and playful twist in a religious setting. Climb to the rooftop terrace for amazing views

National Pantheon (Panteão Nacional) - Impressive Baroque monument where many Portuguese notables are buried. Climb to the dome for panoramic city views.

Graça Funicular - Near Rua da Verónica. Hop on the brand-new Graça funicular to descend into Mouraria, or just enjoy the ride for the views. Operates 9 am–9 pm daily.

Map of Walking Tour of Graça

Culinary Highlights

Oitava Colina - Local craft brewery known for its unique beers.

O Pitéu da Graça - Beloved local spot for traditional dishes. Unpretentious, affordable, always fresh.

Graça do Vinho - Small, atmospheric wine bar offering great Portuguese wines, cheeses, and petiscos.

Botequim da Graça - Family-run spot with a vintage vibe. Vegetarian-friendly dishes and great homemade desserts.

Via Graça - Elegant dining with panoramic views.

Jardim de Graça - Good for brunch, coffee, or a quick bite.

Bar da Graça (Miradouro kiosk) - A must for drinks with a view: under the pine trees while watching the sunset over the city.

Estrela da Graça Pastelaria - Grab a pastel de nata and espresso in this classic local pastry shop.

Street Art in Lisbon

A City Canvas - Lisbon ranks among Europe’s street art capitals, with its walls, alleys, studios, and deserted buildings transformed into open-air galleries. What distinguishes the city's street art is its fusion of political commentary, cultural pride, and visual storytelling, layered over Lisbon’s already vibrant and textured architecture. Deteriorating walls, staircases, and abandoned buildings have become a canvas for both local and international artists, supported by public initiatives like Galeria de Arte Urbana (GAU) - the city’s official urban art program. From giant photorealistic portraits to abstract expressionism, graffiti tags to poetic typography, Lisbon’s art is stylistically diverse and ever-changing.

Staircases and walls around Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Escadinhas Damasceno Monteiro
Vhils' Carved Portrait of Amália Rodrigues.
Mário Belém's 'Better to be lost here somewhere than on my way to nowhere'.
'Sophia' by Daniel Eime: A tribute to Portuguese poet Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen.
Shepard Fairey’s “Peace Guard”
Fuel’s Azulejo-Inspired Murals