Miradouro da Graca (Graca Viewpoint), Lisbon (must see)

While commonly referred to as the "Miradouro da Graça", this viewpoint officially carries the name "Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen", in honor of a poetess who frequently gazed upon Lisbon from this very spot. Her bust continues to do so, while lines from one of her poems grace the nearby wall. Distinguishing itself from many other tourist-heavy viewpoints in Lisbon, this one in the Graça neighborhood enjoys equal popularity among locals. It serves as both a meeting place and a spiritual refuge for those seeking respite at the on-site café, which offers refreshments and comfortable seating in the shade of the adjacent church and the surrounding pine trees. Here, visitors are generously treated to a breathtaking view of the city below, with the Tagus River flowing in the background, all enveloped in the tranquility that contrasts with the bustling metropolis.

This viewpoint frequently marks the conclusion of a journey for those ascending the hill from Alfama and Saint George's Castle. Along the path to the terrace, visitors traverse a small garden featuring a quaint fountain and a bronze sculpture. The series of steps leading to the viewpoint are paved with traditional cobblestone designs.

With the castle visible to the left, this vista has over time attracted countless artists eager to capture the history of Lisbon on canvas or paper. The most prominent feature in view is one of the city's oldest churches, the Igreja da Graça, originally constructed in 1271 and later revamped in the Baroque style following the earthquake of 1755.