Praça do Comércio - Pedaling...
1 / 10

Praça do Comércio

4.6
·491k reviews·Coimbra, Portugal

Lisbon's grand waterfront square, a symbol of resilience and beauty, offering stunning views and historical charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Praça do Comércio - Pedaling...

Praça do Comércio

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lisbon's grand waterfront square, a symbol of resilience and beauty, offering stunning views and historical charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly majestic square that captures the heart of Lisbon's history and beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Arch

Use portrait mode on your phone to get creative shots of the Arco da Rua Augusta!

👟 Comfy Shoes are Key

Lisbon is hilly! Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the square and surrounding areas.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arco da Rua Augusta

Arco da Rua Augusta

North end of the square

Ascend this triumphant arch for panoramic views of the Tagus River and the city.

Statue of King José I

Statue of King José I

Center of the square

Admire the imposing equestrian statue, a symbol of Portuguese power and resilience.

Tagus Riverfront Promenade

Tagus Riverfront Promenade

South side of the square

Stroll along the river, soak in the maritime atmosphere, and watch boats glide by.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Grandeur

Praça do Comércio is Lisbon's majestic waterfront square. Arrive early to beat crowds and capture stunning photos. Consider a guided tour to unlock its rich history.

Getting Around Lisbon

Lisbon's hills are no joke! Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The metro is efficient, but exploring on foot reveals hidden gems. Trams are iconic but can be crowded.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening
Why
Beautifully lit square
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Save this Lisbon travel guide for your next trip! ✨ Helping you plan your next adventure so here’s a list of my favourite things to do, neighbourhoods, to explore, view points, landmarks and day trips in Lisbon Portugal. Let me know if you have any questions and make the plans!! #visitportugal #travelportugal #lisbonportugal #lisbontips #europetrip #portugaladventures #lisbonguide #bucketlistdesti...
@kimberlyerind
62.6K likes • 2.3M views

📸 Capture the Arch

Use portrait mode on your phone to get creative shots of the Arco da Rua Augusta! TikTok

👟 Comfy Shoes are Key

Lisbon is hilly! Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the square and surrounding areas. Reddit

Tentando tirar foto da praça no modo normal? Calma, eu cheguei. 😎📱 #iphonephoto #fotocomcelular #mobilemaker #videomaker #filmmaker #trickmobile #iphonetricks #dicaiphone #reelsviral #conteudocriativo #gravandocomcelular #audiovisualbr
@math.maker
55.3K likes • 2.2M views
Lisbon is about to shine! ✨ On September 17, Praça do Comércio turns into a giant stage to celebrate Macau 🎆🐉 🎇 Drone show + fireworks over the Tagus (opening night only!) 🎤 Live music with Cuca Roseta + Portugal x Macau fusion 🎶 🥟 Traditional dances, culture & food vibes! 📍 Lisbon, Praça do Comércio 🗓️ September 17, 2025 – from 9 PM 🎟️ Free entry ⚡ Save the date: feel Macau in Lisbon like nev...
isa__m_
11.8K likes • 427.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience Praça do Comércio and Lisbon is by walking. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and largest crowds. TikTok

A Praça do Comércio é um dos principais pontos de encontro em Lisboa, com esplanadas e restaurantes perfeitos para desfrutar de vistas deslumbrantes sobre o Tejo e do imponente Arco da Rua Augusta. 🇬🇧 The Praça do Comércio is one of Lisbon’s main meeting points, with terraces and restaurants perfect for enjoying stunning views of the Tagus River and the impressive Rua Augusta Arch. #terreirodopa...
lisboa_myohmy
8.4K likes • 101.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Arch

Use portrait mode on your phone to get creative shots of the Arco da Rua Augusta! TikTok

👟 Comfy Shoes are Key

Lisbon is hilly! Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the square and surrounding areas. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience Praça do Comércio and Lisbon is by walking. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and largest crowds. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Praça do Comércio is widely praised for its immense beauty, historical significance, and stunning waterfront location. Visitors love the grandeur of the architecture, the panoramic views from the Arco da Rua Augusta, and the vibrant atmosphere. Some find the surrounding restaurants a bit touristy and pricey, and the square can get very crowded, especially during peak times.

What People Like

Majestic architecture
River views
Arco da Rua Augusta climb

What People Dislike

Crowded during peak hours
Tourist-trap restaurants

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Praça do Comércio is easily accessible by Lisbon's metro system, with the 'Terreiro do Paço' station located directly on the square. Trams and buses also serve the area. Many visitors find walking from nearby neighborhoods like Baixa or Alfama to be a pleasant experience, especially with good shoes. Reddit

Yes, Praça do Comércio is very walkable from many central Lisbon attractions. It's a short stroll from the Baixa district and a moderate walk from areas like Alfama and Chiado. Reddit

The metro is highly recommended for its efficiency and direct access to the square via the Terreiro do Paço station. Trams are scenic but can be slower and more crowded. Reddit

Driving directly to Praça do Comércio can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. It's generally advisable to use public transport or park in a nearby garage and walk. Reddit

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Lisbon and can drop you off near Praça do Comércio. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Praça do Comércio itself is a public square and is free to enter and explore. However, there are fees to ascend the Arco da Rua Augusta. TikTok

As a public square, Praça do Comércio is open 24/7. However, specific attractions within the square, like the Arco da Rua Augusta, have their own operating hours. TikTok

No advance booking is required for the square itself. If you wish to climb the Arco da Rua Augusta, it's advisable to check their official website for ticket information and potential online booking options. TikTok

Praça do Comércio frequently hosts concerts, festivals, and public events, especially during holidays. Check local listings for any ongoing celebrations. TikTok

'Terreiro do Paço' is the historical name for Praça do Comércio, meaning 'Palace Yard'. The metro station is named after this historical designation. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire square offers stunning photo opportunities. Key spots include the Arco da Rua Augusta (especially from below and from its top), the equestrian statue, and the riverfront promenade. Experiment with different angles! TikTok

For dramatic shots, try using your phone's portrait mode to isolate the arch against the sky. Shooting from a low angle can emphasize its grandeur. TikTok

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful warm light. Evenings are also magical when the square is illuminated. Weekday mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near historical monuments in Lisbon. It's best to check current regulations with local authorities before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the square. However, a smartphone with good camera capabilities can also produce excellent results, especially with creative angles and editing. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Praça do Comércio has several restaurants and cafes lining its arcades, offering various cuisines. Many provide outdoor seating with views of the square and river. TikTok

While in Lisbon, don't miss trying Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts), fresh seafood, and bacalhau (codfish). You can find these in many eateries around the square and in the Baixa district. TikTok

Venture into the smaller streets of the Baixa district surrounding the square for more affordable 'tascas' (traditional Portuguese taverns) and bakeries. TikTok

Many restaurants within the arcades of Praça do Comércio offer excellent views of the square and the Tagus River, making for a memorable dining experience. TikTok

Lunch and dinner are popular times. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or making a reservation, especially for restaurants with prime river views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Praça do Comércio is a fantastic open space for families. Kids can enjoy the vastness of the square to run around (under supervision, of course!). The riverfront promenade offers a chance to see boats and enjoy the sea breeze. Consider a ride on Tram 15E, which often passes by the square, for a fun, albeit potentially crowded, experience. TikTok

While the square itself is free, the climb up the Arco da Rua Augusta might be challenging for very young children. Pack snacks and water, as dining options directly on the square can be pricier. Exploring the nearby streets of Baixa offers more casual eateries and sweet treats like Pastéis de Nata, which are always a hit with kids. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

Praça do Comércio is a great starting point for budget travelers as the square itself is free to explore. Enjoy the architecture, the river views, and the general atmosphere without spending a dime. TikTok

To save money on food, avoid the restaurants directly facing the river and instead explore the side streets of the Baixa district for more affordable 'tascas' and bakeries. Utilize Lisbon's efficient metro system for getting around, as it's cost-effective. Walking is free and the best way to discover hidden gems. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Praça do Comércio is a photographer's dream, offering a mix of grand architecture and scenic river views. The Arco da Rua Augusta provides a dramatic focal point, and shooting from its summit offers unparalleled cityscapes. TikTok

Experiment with different times of day: golden hour for warm light, midday for stark architectural lines, and evenings for illuminated beauty. Using a wide-angle lens will help capture the scale of the square, while a telephoto can isolate details. Don't forget to try creative phone photography techniques for unique shots of the arch. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio, historically known as Terreiro do Paço, was once the site of the Royal Ribeira Palace, which was destroyed in the devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Following the disaster, the square was rebuilt as part of the Marquis of Pombal's ambitious urban renewal project, transforming it into a grand, open space facing the Tagus River. The current neoclassical design, with its distinctive yellow buildings and arcades, reflects this post-earthquake reconstruction, symbolizing Lisbon's resilience and rebirth. The imposing Arco da Rua Augusta, completed much later, now serves as a monumental gateway to the city. TikTok

This vast square was not just an aesthetic statement but also a functional hub for trade and maritime activity. Its strategic location on the river made it a crucial point for commerce and the arrival of dignitaries. Today, it remains a central point for both locals and tourists, a place where history meets modern Lisbon, offering a tangible connection to the city's past. TikTok

Experiencing the Arco da Rua Augusta

The Arco da Rua Augusta is more than just a beautiful arch; it's a gateway to Lisbon's vibrant Baixa district and offers an unforgettable perspective of the city. Visitors can ascend to the top of the arch via a staircase, which provides a unique vantage point for photography and sightseeing. TikTok

From the summit, you're treated to breathtaking panoramic views. To the south, the expansive Praça do Comércio opens up towards the Tagus River, offering a stunning vista of the waterfront. Looking north, you can see the grid-like streets of the Baixa district stretching out, with the São Jorge Castle visible in the distance. The experience is often described as a highlight, offering a different way to appreciate the city's layout and grandeur. TikTok

Navigating Lisbon's Hills and Transport

Lisbon is famously built on seven hills, and Praça do Comércio, being on the waterfront, is at a lower elevation. However, exploring the surrounding areas means encountering inclines. As Reddit users often emphasize, comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable for a pleasant experience. Reddit

The metro system is a lifesaver for covering longer distances efficiently. The 'Terreiro do Paço' station is directly connected to the square. For shorter hops or a more scenic journey, the iconic trams are an option, though they can get very crowded. Walking remains the best way to discover the charm of Lisbon's neighborhoods, but be prepared for the climbs. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2