Summary
Across the Tagus Estuary from Lisbon lies Almada, a former industrial area that has undergone significant transformation since the 1990s.
Today, individuals cross from the capital to enjoy dining with river and Lisbon views or to relax along the extended series of beaches on Almada’s Atlantic shore.
Another compelling reason to visit is the impressive Cristo Rei statue, inspired by Christ the Redeemer in Rio and completed in 1959. Along the Ginjal riverside road, remnants of Almada’s historic shipbuilding and fishing industries can be found; one of the warehouses has been converted into a maritime museum, and in a dock at Cacilhas resides Dom Fernando II e Glória, the last wooden frigate launched by the Portuguese Navy.
Let us explore the top attractions in Almada:
1. Cristo Rei
Perched 85 meters above the south bank of the Tagus Estuary, this monumental statue serves as Portugal’s homage to Christ the Redeemer.
This iconic statue is slightly shorter than its Rio counterpart, standing just under 80 meters tall.
The statue’s planning began in the 1930s after the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon’s visit to Brazil, but its completion in 1959 was a gesture of gratitude to God for ensuring Portugal’s neutrality during World War II.
Upon reaching the statue’s pedestal, accessed via an elevator followed by a flight of steps, one can enjoy panoramic views of the entire Tagus Estuary, the historic areas of Lisbon, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
2. 25 de Abril Bridge
This iconic suspension bridge, which has been facilitating traffic across the Tagus since 1966, continues to rank among the world’s top 30 largest suspension bridges even after more than 50 years, measuring 70 meters in height and 2.7 kilometers in length.
Notably, the resemblance to the bridges in San Francisco is not coincidental; it was constructed by the same company as the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.
The upper level accommodates road traffic on the IP7, while the lower level features the Linha do Sul railway line.
3. Cacilhas
Situated at Almada’s northwestern point, Cacilhas is a lively waterfront community.
It hosts the Lisbon-Almada ferry terminal, and prior to the 1990s, it was home to the Lisnave shipyards.
Since then, the area has been revitalized, providing a pleasant space for enjoying views of the Tagus, relaxing with a drink, or dining at one of the numerous seafood restaurants.
Rua Cândido dos Reis is a pedestrianized thoroughfare lined with restaurant terraces, while the riverside Rua do Ginjol offers a distinctive atmosphere with its dilapidated old warehouses and stunning views.
4. Ferry Ride to Lisbon
Ferries depart approximately every 20 minutes from Cacilhas to Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré.
The last ferry does not leave until after 01:00 am, allowing ample time to enjoy an evening meal or drink in Almada.
The crossing takes just 15 minutes and, at €1.25 for a one-way journey, it is an economical sightseeing option, offering a unique perspective of the magnificent 25 de Abril Bridge, historical areas of Lisbon on the northern bank, and back towards the elevated Cristo Rei statue.
5. Lisbon’s Riverside
Upon arrival at Cais do Sodré, you will find numerous intriguing sights and attractions within just a couple of minutes’ walk.
The Time Out Market, located within the Mercado da Ribeira, serves as a spacious food hall.
Featuring a variety of stalls and pop-up restaurants, it offers an excellent opportunity to sample the finest of Portuguese cuisine, enjoyed at communal tables.
Nearby, you can admire the grand 18th-century architecture of the Praça do Comércio, the Lisboa Story Centre, and the National Contemporary Art Museum.
Additionally, the 12th-century Lisbon Cathedral is located just a short distance away, perched above the quays.
6. Dom Fernando II e Glória
Permanently moored in Cacilhas is a restored 19th-century frigate, which was launched in 1843. The 50-gun vessel remained operational until 1878 and continued to play a ceremonial role until 1940, being the last wooden-hulled sailing ship constructed by the Portuguese navy.
Subsequently, it served as a heritage and educational vessel until 1963 when it was tragically destroyed by fire and towed to the mudflats of the Tagus, where it was abandoned for 30 years.
In 1998, an eight-year restoration project concluded, and for over a decade this museum ship has been docked in Cacilhas, allowing visitors to explore and learn about life aboard during lengthy voyages to Portugal’s former colonies.
7. Praia Fonte da Telha
In Cacilhas, the connection to Lisbon is strong; however, at Praia Fonte da Telha, the city feels remarkably distant.
Located just 20 minutes along the coast, this beach is part of a vast natural park south of Costa da Caparica.
The beach boasts pristine white sands that stretch for several kilometers, bordered by limestone cliffs adorned with juniper and pine vegetation.
Development is minimal, with the exception of the small village of Fonte da Telha.
The waves are often suitable for surfing, but for those preferring relaxation, the beach offers stunning views of the Sintra Mountains and frequent dolphin sightings; the sunsets here are breathtaking.
8. Costa da Caparica
The beaches extend all the way to the mouth of the Tagus.
This northern region is somewhat more tourist-oriented, yet the beaches still maintain their expansive and natural qualities.
Costa da Caparica serves as the main resort area, featuring a series of lively beaches during the summer, along with restaurants and establishments suitable for various water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and bodyboarding.
During summer, it attracts a youthful, vibrant crowd, collectively creating a dynamic atmosphere filled with exciting venues.
Notably, the area remains authentically Portuguese as few international tourists frequent Costa da Caparica.
9. Boca do Vento Elevator
Many travelers traverse the Tagus specifically to experience this unique attraction, which is affixed to the cliffside along the riverfront.
For a nominal fee, you can take the elevator that transports you from the cliff top to a landscaped garden located by the water’s edge (Jardim do Rio). Whether by day or night, the views of Lisbon across the water are truly memorable.
On the Almada side, the remnants of shipbuilding warehouses that line the wharf can be observed.
The elevator was one of the initial redevelopment initiatives for the waterfront and opened its doors in 2000. At the top, there is a café that also offers spectacular views.
10. Casa da Cerca
High above the riverbank lies a charming historic mansion that was acquired by the city in 1988 and subsequently transformed into a contemporary art center.
Visitors can spend a couple of hours here exploring rotating exhibitions, primarily featuring local artists, with updates occurring every few months.
Outside, creatively themed gardens celebrate different elements such as pigments (various flowers), fabrics (cotton and flax), oils (lavender, rosemary), and even a cherry plantation, as these trees were instrumental in producing the gum used in early paint formulations.
Afterward, patrons can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at the café and find a spot on the terrace to admire the Lisbon skyline, the Tagus River, and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
11. Conveto dos Capuchos
Located in the protected coastal region to the west is a historic convent belonging to the Order of St. Francis.
This site, established in 1558, was built by Lourenço Pires de Távora, an influential diplomat who governed Tangier in the 16th century.
As a Franciscan structure, the building exhibits an understated style; however, the façade is worth inspecting for its tile panels depicting the life of St. Francis and the coat of arms of the esteemed Távora family.
Additionally, the site offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the northern bank of the Tagus, and the Costa da Caparica from a viewpoint located a short walk from the convent.
12. Museu Naval
Until the 1990s, the ocean played a crucial role in defining Almada’s identity and economy; thus, the intriguing museum located by the Tagus on Rua do Ginjal preserves aspects of this heritage.
The museum is housed within a lengthy warehouse that originally belonged to the Olho-de-Boi fishing company, which once operated one of Portugal’s most significant trawling fleets.
Exhibiting various facets of Almada’s historical industries, including shipbuilding, repair, and fishing, the museum features an antique forge, carpentry tools, rigging, model ships, a vintage diving suit, and bellows.
13. Almada Forum
Home to Portugal’s third-largest shopping center, Almada Forum is situated adjacent to Parque da Paz.
This contemporary shopping venue officially opened in 2002, inaugurated by the Prime Minister, and received the accolade of “Best New Shopping Centre in the World” in 2004. The expansive mall spans three floors and attracts approximately 18 million visitors annually, covering an area equivalent to ten football pitches.
It features all the major mainstream fashion retailers, including Zara and H&M, alongside a supermarket, dining options, and a cinema.
A delightful addition is the café seating beside the fountains.
14. Parque da Paz
For those seeking greenery, a brief Metro ride to Cova da Piedade allows for a leisurely hour amidst nature.
This park represents another aspect of Almada’s revitalization efforts in the 1990s, encompassing over 60 hectares featuring shaded rest areas, a large lake, clusters of trees, and expansive lawns.
With over 110 species of trees, visitors can explore the diverse range of olive trees, cypress, spruce, and pine.
Additionally, the modern sculptor José Aurélio conceived the 26-meter-high Monumento à Paz.
15. Days Out
The options for memorable places to visit are plentiful, whether by car or public transport.
West of the 25 de Abril Bridge lies the Belém Quarter, home to the famous watchtower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and noted among Portugal’s Seven Wonders.
While there is an abundance of attractions in Lisbon itself, there are also many opportunities for exploration to the west, such as Sintra and its array of royal palaces.
Alternatively, consider heading south to the breathtaking Parque Natural da Arrábida, where you can discover lush woodlands and secluded coves at the base of Portugal’s tallest cliffs.
