Planning a short getaway to Lisbon? Let us guide you through some must-visit monuments in and around the city! One of Lisbon’s greatest advantages is its proximity to diverse landscapes beyond its historic center, making it an excellent base for your stay.

If history fascinates you and exploring cultural landmarks is a priority, here are five incredible monuments in the Lisbon region that deserve a spot on your itinerary:

Jerónimos Monastery

Located in the historic and picturesque neighborhood of Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery is a true masterpiece of the Manueline style—a uniquely Portuguese blend of Gothic and Renaissance influences. This architectural gem was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1496 near the banks of the Tagus River. The monastery was dedicated to the Virgin of Belém and housed monks from the Order of Saint Jerome, who provided spiritual guidance to sailors departing from Restelo.

Remarkably, despite its sandy foundation, the monastery withstood the devastating 1755 earthquake. Recognized as a National Monument in 1907 and later designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, it remains one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks. A visit to the monastery is truly the only way to appreciate its grandeur. While you’re there, make sure to stop by the nearby Belém Tower, another stunning Manueline monument, and don’t forget to indulge in the famous Pastéis de Belém! See more info at Lisbon Attractions Tours

Cristo Rei – Christ the King

Standing tall on the opposite side of the 25th of April Bridge, Cristo Rei is a striking monument that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon. Inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, the idea for this monument was conceived in 1934 when the Patriarch of Lisbon visited Brazil. In 1940, amidst World War II, the Portuguese bishops vowed to build a monument dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus if Portugal remained unaffected by the war. True to their promise, construction began in 1949, funded solely by public donations, and was completed a decade later.

At 80 meters high, the viewing platform provides a stunning perspective of the city, the Tagus River, and the Portuguese “Golden Gate” bridge. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a religious traveler, or simply in search of an unforgettable viewpoint, Cristo Rei is well worth the visit. See more info at Lisbon Attractions Tours

Pena Palace

A mere 30-minute drive from Lisbon brings you to one of the most enchanting landscapes in the region—Sintra. Nestled within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, this area is home to several historic treasures, with Pena Palace being the most breathtaking.

Perched atop the Sintra hills at 500 meters above sea level, this vibrant and whimsical palace is a prime example of Portuguese Romanticism and predates Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle by three decades. The palace’s origins trace back to 1839 when King Ferdinand II acquired the ruins of an old monastery and transformed them into a lavish royal residence. The architecture blends Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline influences, while the surrounding 85-acre park is filled with exotic flora from around the world.

Beyond its striking beauty, Pena Palace also holds a fascinating love story and offers a glimpse into the eccentric habits of Portugal’s last royal family. A visit here is truly a step into a fairy tale. See more info at Lisbon Attractions Tours

Quinta da Regaleira

Descending from the hilltops into the heart of Sintra, you’ll find a place straight out of a fantasy novel: Quinta da Regaleira. Just a 10-minute walk from the town center, this estate is brimming with mysticism, symbolism, and architectural splendor.

Originally owned by the Countess of Regaleira, the estate was later purchased in 1904 by Carvalho Monteiro, a wealthy Brazilian-Portuguese businessman known as “Monteiro of the Millions.” Together with Italian architect Luigi Manini, he created a stunning palace and garden infused with Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles, layered with references to mythology, the Knights Templar, and alchemical traditions.

While the palace itself is mesmerizing, the real magic lies in its symbolic gardens, where hidden tunnels, secret pathways, and the Initiation Well take visitors on an esoteric journey like no other. To fully appreciate the deep meanings behind each structure, we highly recommend taking a guided tour! See more info at Lisbon Attractions Tours

Mafra National Palace and Convent

Just 45 minutes from Lisbon lies the charming town of Mafra, home to one of Portugal’s most magnificent baroque monuments—the Mafra National Palace and Convent. This grand complex was commissioned by King João V in the 18th century as a fulfillment of a vow for a royal heir.

Spanning 1,200 rooms and 4,700 windows, the palace features a basilica, a convent, and an extensive collection of Italian sculptures and paintings. Among its many highlights, the library stands out as one of the most stunning in the world, housing 40,000 rare books in a breathtaking rococo setting.

Though it was never a primary royal residence, the palace was frequently visited by kings for religious ceremonies and hunting excursions in the Tapada de Mafra. Today, it is part of the European Royal Residency Network and continues to captivate visitors with its historical and architectural grandeur. See more info at Lisbon Attractions Tours

Did we spark your curiosity to explore these incredible monuments? Or have you already visited one of them? Share your experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to recommend this article to your friends. Happy travels with Lisbon Attractions Tours!