Pilar 7 Bridge Experience Lisbon
Discover Lisbon's iconic 25 de Abril Bridge from within! Learn its history and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Pilar 7 Bridge Experience Lisbon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Lisbon's iconic 25 de Abril Bridge from within! Learn its history and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.
"The view from the top is breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of Lisbon!"
Check Elevator Status
The lift can be broken; be ready to climb 300 stairs for the view! :athletic_shoe:
Clear Skies are Key
Visit on a day with good visibility for the best panoramic experience. :sunny:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Lisbon View
Top of Pilar 7
Breathtaking vistas of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and Cristo Rei. A must-see for any visitor.

Bridge Construction History
Museum exhibits
Learn about the fascinating construction of the 25 de Abril Bridge through films, photos, and miniatures.

LX Factory Proximity
Short walk from Pilar 7
Explore this vibrant street of shops, eateries, and art after your bridge visit. Highly recommended!
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Elevator Status & Stair Challenge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Elevator Status
The lift can be broken; be ready to climb 300 stairs for the view!
:athletic_shoe:Clear Skies are Key
Visit on a day with good visibility for the best panoramic experience.
:sunny:Discounted Climb
If the elevator is out, climbing stairs may offer a discounted entry.
:moneywithwings:Combine with LX Factory
Easily pair your visit with the trendy shops and eateries at nearby LX Factory.
:shopping_bags:Tips
from all over the internet
Check Elevator Status
The lift can be broken; be ready to climb 300 stairs for the view!
:athletic_shoe:Clear Skies are Key
Visit on a day with good visibility for the best panoramic experience.
:sunny:Discounted Climb
If the elevator is out, climbing stairs may offer a discounted entry.
:moneywithwings:Combine with LX Factory
Easily pair your visit with the trendy shops and eateries at nearby LX Factory.
:shopping_bags:Free Lisbon Attractions
Pilar 7 is listed among other free Lisbon sites like Tram 28 and Belem Tower.
:star2:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning panoramic views from Pilar 7 and the informative exhibits on the 25 de Abril Bridge's construction. The proximity to LX Factory is also a major plus. However, the frequent elevator outages can lead to a strenuous stair climb, which some find inconvenient despite potential discounts.
"I would give it 4 stars except the elevator was broken and going up 300 steps does not make an attraction get 5 stars for me. As a curious and analitical person I really enjoyed it. It was €3, normally €5, plus the Virtual Experience €1.5, which was very cool, though make sure the glasses are clean as you begin. If you like how things work, I would highly recommend it."
Eva T
"Wasn't busy at the time of visit but judging by other low reviews, the negativity surrounds around the broken lift mostly.
Anyway...
That would never be an issue if you like climbing, walking and/or hiking. The climb is partially in the open - albeit contained within the construction of the shaft of the bridge - so all the vibrations and the noise of the road/traffic and occasional train crossing, can scare the bejesus out you, be warned. Once at the top, there is this glorious view of of the River Tagus, and if you not where to point your camera at, there are some glorious views too. Shame about the canterlevered viewing point though, it was in need of a clean.
Also, if you suffer from vertigo, this whole experience may not be for you."
Tajul Islam
"Okay, the lift is not working since weeks. Seems to be rocket science in Portugal to fix such an issues. Going up by stairs is okay and not a big thing. We enjoyed the view and the atmosphere to be in and close by the bridge. Also VR experience is worth a try."
Markus Böniger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Pilar 7 via public transport. Consider taking a train to Pragal and then a bus towards Cacilhas, followed by Bus 101. Alternatively, explore local bus routes from Lisbon.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, driving is an option. Be aware of Lisbon's city traffic and potential parking challenges. It's often recommended to use public transport for ease.
Yes, many visitors combine these. You can take a train from Lisbon to Pragal, then a bus to Cacilhas for the Christ Statue, and then explore Pilar 7.
After visiting the Christ Statue in Cacilhas, you can take a bus (like the 101) back towards the bridge area or explore local transport options.
Ferries operate to Cacilhas, which is near the Christ Statue. From there, you would need to arrange onward transport to Pilar 7.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The standard entry fee is around £5. However, if the elevator is not working, you might get a discounted rate for climbing the stairs.
Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special advisories, especially during peak season.
Pilar 7 is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. It's advisable to confirm these hours before your visit as they can change.
Yes, the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience is listed as a free entry site when using the Lisbon Card, making it a great value for exploring multiple attractions.
If the elevator is out of service, you can still access the viewpoint by climbing approximately 300 stairs. Some visitors reported a discounted entry fee in this situation.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoint at the top offers incredible photo opportunities of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the 25 de Abril Bridge itself.
Yes, you can take photos of the historical exhibits and films detailing the bridge's construction. Remember to be respectful of other visitors.
Weekday mornings or clear weather days tend to have fewer visitors, which can make it easier to capture unobstructed photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional or commercial photography might require special permission. Always check on-site signage.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
It's a museum and viewpoint dedicated to the 25 de Abril Bridge. You'll learn its history and enjoy stunning panoramic views from the top.
Allow about 1-2 hours for the museum exhibits and enjoying the viewpoint. If you climb the stairs, factor in extra time.
The climb involves about 300 stairs. It can be challenging for some, but many find the view at the top well worth the effort.
You'll get a breathtaking view of Lisbon, the Tagus River, the Cristo Rei statue, and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Information on cafes or shops directly within Pilar 7 is limited, but nearby LX Factory offers many options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby LX Factory, which offers a more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of food options and interesting shops that kids might enjoy exploring. The Lisbon Card is a good investment for families, as it covers entry to Pilar 7 and public transport, simplifying logistics.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pairing your visit with a walk through the LX Factory for affordable eats and window shopping is another great way to maximize your budget. Remember to check the weather to ensure you get the best possible views, making your free or low-cost experience even more rewarding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 25 de Abril Bridge: A Lisbon Icon
Visitors can explore the various stages of the bridge's development, understanding the challenges faced by the engineers and workers. The experience culminates at the panoramic viewpoint, offering unparalleled vistas of the cityscape, the river, and the distant Cristo Rei statue. This elevated perspective provides a profound appreciation for the bridge's scale and its integration into Lisbon's landscape.
For those who enjoy a bit of a challenge, the climb up the stairs to the viewpoint can be an adventure in itself. It's a great way to get some exercise while anticipating the rewarding view. The experience is a testament to human ingenuity and a must-do for anyone interested in Lisbon's modern history and impressive infrastructure.
Navigating to Pilar 7 and Beyond
Many travelers suggest using public transport. A common route involves taking a train from Lisbon to Pragal, then catching a bus towards Cacilhas. From Cacilhas, you can take a specific bus (like the 101) that will get you closer to the bridge. This approach allows you to potentially visit the Cristo Rei statue on the other side of the river as well.
It's also worth noting that the Pilar 7 is a short walk from the vibrant LX Factory, a hub of shops, restaurants, and creative spaces. This makes it easy to create a half-day itinerary that includes both the historical bridge experience and a taste of Lisbon's contemporary culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit