Praça do Comércio

The Praça do Comércio in Lisbon is a vast open space between the Tagus river and the city center. It is one of the largest squares in Portugal and in Europe.

It is a lively, bustling space that is a must for all visitors, and without a doubt one of the many must-see spots on your visit to Lisbon.

In the past, it was, among other things, the site of the Royal Palace of Lisbon for nearly 200 years. King Manuel D. I moved from São Jorge Castle to this location, but the palace and the valuable works and documents kept here were destroyed by the 1755 earthquake.

From this point, the reorganization of the city was planned following the great earthquake.

Rua Augusta Arch Viewpoint

The majestic arch through which you enter the square from Rua Augusta in the Baixa, has a viewpoint you can climb up to. The Rua Augusta Arch Viewpointis one of the stunning viewpoints in Lisbon (free with the Lisboa Card).

In addition to some government offices and ministries, beneath the arcades and yellow facades of the square you will find cafés and restaurants, including Lisbon's oldest café, Martinho da Arcada, where the famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa used to sit.

This grand square hosts events throughout the year and on special occasions such as New Year's Eve in Lisbon, typically with fireworks, concerts, and other activities.

From here, a riverside pedestrian walkway connecting to Cais do Sodré ("Cais" means Quay) has been opened, and it makes for a very pleasant walk.

Lisboa Story Centre

The Lisboa Story Centre, located on one side of the square, is an interactive space that showcases the city's history across six areas designed to take visitors on a fascinating journey through time. The adult ticket costs €6.50.

If it has been a while since you last visited Lisbon, you will notice that the square has finally come alive with commercial activity, both day and night.

Together with other new establishments in the surrounding area, this new energy now gives the square the atmosphere any self-respecting European city needs — a place to sit back and enjoy the dolce fare niente  of a summer afternoon or a sunny winter morning.

Other places accessible (and visible) from here include São Jorge Castle, the Convento do Carmo and the Lisbon Cathedral.