Chilling in the Gardens of center Lisbon

When preparing a trip to Lisboa, it's easy to focus on the big monuments, the famous streets and entertaining neighbourhoods, but some of the many charms of the city that are often overlooked are its lovely and peaceful gardens. There are a few of them in the center area of Lisboa and they're perfect for a relaxing little pause in your adventure trip around Portugal's capital, for escaping the busy streets and enjoy a calm evening watching the sunset or for having a great time in a picnic with friends. So here are a few gardens and parks you should know about:

The beautiful Jardim da Estrela is a romantic and lush garden with statues, lakes and a peculiar bandstand. Here you can quietly read a book in one of the benches or just lay on the grass for a sunbath. There is also a children playground, fitness equipment, a kiosk and a restaurant under the shade of the trees. It is a favourite for a family day out and a picnic! One of its entrances is right at the front of the Estrela church, and the famous Tram 28 stops very close too.

This viewpoint is located on the grounds of the Santa Luzia church, and extends for some dozens of meters to provide for some of the best sights over Lisboa. On the same site, next to one the churches' walls, is a small but cozy garden called Jardim Júlio de Castilho, in hommage to the portuguese writer. Being one of the most well-known sightseeing spots, it's hard not to find it crowded, but if you do you will immediately enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the place. Be sure to pass by if you're planning to visit the Alfama neighbourhood!

A symbol of XVIII century romanticism, the Jardim França Borges is also known as Jardim do Príncipe Real, in hommage to king D. Pedro V, who had the title of 'regal prince'. Under the shade of its thriving trees, following the gravel or portuguese pavement paths, and sitting by the quiet lake, you almost forget you're in the middle of busy Lisboa. A highlight is the centenary Cedro-do-Buçaco tree, that provides one of the most intimate and romantic ambiences of Lisboa. There are 3 kiosks in the area, a children playground, plenty of grass to lay on and a little known branch of the Water Museum under the lake.