Portugal’s oldest botanical garden is a relaxing getaway from the bustling Lisbon streets and a great vantage point to admire the striking Tower of Belem.
Since the late 1800s the Botanical Garden (Jardim Botanico) has enjoyed a reputation as the best botanical collection in southern Europe. Even now the old-world charm of the garden in central Lisbon is unchanged. Join a walking tour of the city to learn about the history of the Jardim Botanico or spend a few hours relaxing in the tranquil environment. Take in the views across Belem, including the Tower of Belem. This 16th-century fortified tower at the mouth of the River Tagus is a UNESCO site.
The 4 hectares (10 acres) of sculpted garden were the work of two professors at the University of Lisbon. The grounds are still used as a research and education centre today. School groups frequent the park along with conservationists, who come to study the micro-environments throughout the garden.
Discover one of the largest collections of subtropical plants in Europe. Stroll along the paths that traverse the garden to see about 18,000 different species of plant. Look for the twisting trunks of the Australian cycads and the feathery palm-ferns that are among the oldest species of plants on earth.
The Botanical Garden is located within the beautiful Principe Real neighbourhood. Browse the National Museum of Natural History immediately next door to the garden. Explore the rest of the district on foot to see domed mansions from the 19th century, each with intricate tiling and grand balconies hanging over the street. A short walk will have you in a tiny square shaded by an enormous cedar tree. Pull up a seat at a café to enjoy a glass of wine or beer and watch the locals go about their day.
The Botanical Garden of Lisbon is located just outside the city centre and can be reached on foot, by bus or by tram. The garden is open daily and entry is free.
