Jardim Botânico de Lisboa

Overview

Lisbon's Botanical Garden is a lush 4-hectare park descending a steep hillside from the Príncipe Real neighbourhood. Established in 1873 by the Polytechnic School, it contains over 1,500 subtropical and tropical species.

Highlights

• Palm avenue: A dramatic descending walkway flanked by towering palm trees.
• Cycad collection: Rare prehistoric plants thriving in Lisbon's mild climate.
• Butterfly greenhouse: A small glasshouse with tropical butterflies (seasonal).

History

Created in 1873 by Count Ficalho and Andrade Corvo as part of the Escola Politécnica (now the Faculty of Sciences). The garden preserves many original specimen trees from the 19th century.

Visitor Tips

• Shaded: The dense canopy makes this a cool retreat on hot days.
• Two entrances: Enter from Rua da Escola Politécnica (upper) or Rua da Alegria (lower).
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.