Parque Florestal de Monsanto

For the largest green space in Lisbon, Monsanto Forest Park (Parque Florestal Monsanto) is relatively unknown to the average tourist. But amongst locals it’s earned the name “the lungs of Lisbon” for its lush green oasis, spanning an impressive 10 square kilometres!

This protected forested area is only a 10-minute Uber drive from central Lisbon and offers hilly hiking and cycling trails, sports events, picnic and BBQ areas, and children’s play zones. You get a huge slice of nature all while still being within a city!

Here are some attractions you can find within the park:

• The Fronteira Palace – a 17th-century palace with exquisite rooms adorned with decorative tiles, oil paintings, and a beautiful garden and fountain.
• Estrada da Bela Vista – The scenic walk away and cycle path will take you past Panorâmico de Monsanto, an abandoned hotel that has the best panoramic views of Lisbon.
• Parque Recreativo do Alto da Serafina – Open every day between 9 am and 6 pm, the family park offers activities for children, ponds and nature views.
• The Montes Claros Gardens – An ideal place for picnicking, these gardens have a pond with ducks, geese and turtles!

For the kids:

• The Alvito Park – Children’s playground with facilities for all ages. It has a snack shop and supervisors that ensure no child wanders out of the play area.
• Hella Park – A fun children’s amusement park with an inflatable jumping fort, outside playground, ninja track, and other activities. The park is for 4 to 10 year olds, no reservation is needed, and the price is €10 per hour.