Overlooking the Tagus River at Praça do Comércio

Right next to the Tagus River, The Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square), also known as Terreiro do Paço, was the location of the Royal Ribeira Palace until the great earthquake of 1755 that destroyed Lisbon. The 1st Marquis de Pombal ordered de remodeling of the square, as part of the rebuilding project, known as the Pombaline Downtown, which was inspired by XVIII century French architecture.

The square, which was remodeled again in 2013, also houses two important stops for tourists: The Lisboa Story Centre – where you can learn all about the history of the city in 60 minutes (7 €) -, and the Lisbon Shop, where you can buy items typical from the city with creative and unique designs.

In terms of landmarks, in the center you can see the Statue of King José I, the monarch at the time of the 1755 remodeling. On the opposite side of the Tagus, there is the Arco da Rua Augusta, a massive structure that reminds of the French Arc du Triomphe, in Paris. There, you can climb to the top for a breath-taking view of the main streets of the Lisbon Centre, and also the river.

How to get here: 38.70825, -9.13675