Praça do Comércio

Lisbon's grand riverfront square, a vast arcaded plaza opening straight onto the Tagus and the gateway to the Baixa. It's free, always open, and the natural starting point for exploring downtown. Climb the Rua Augusta arch (€3.50) for a 360° view. Mostly a place to pass through and soak up, not a ticketed sight.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is Praça do Comércio worth visiting?

Yes, it's one of Europe's great riverside squares and you'll almost certainly pass through it exploring downtown anyway. Don't expect a museum-style experience, it's about the scale, the setting and the walk up Rua Augusta.

How do I get to Praça do Comércio?

Take the metro blue line to Terreiro do Paço, which exits right by the square, or hop on trams 15E and 25E and many buses. It's one of the most connected spots in the city and walkable from Rossio.

Can you swim or go on the river from Praça do Comércio?

No swimming here, but the Cais das Colunas steps at the river edge are a lovely spot to sit by the water. River cruises and sightseeing boats depart from nearby quays if you want to get on the Tagus.

What is there to do at Praça do Comércio?

Soak up the arcaded architecture and the statue of King José I, walk out to the river steps, climb the arch for the view, and start a stroll up pedestrian Rua Augusta into the Baixa. It's more a hub and hangout than a single attraction.

How much is the Rua Augusta Arch viewpoint?

It's €3.50 per person, with under-5s free, open daily roughly 10:00 to 19:00 with last entry 30 minutes before closing. A short lift ride plus a spiral staircase brings you to a 360° terrace over the square, river and castle.

What's near Praça do Comércio?

The pedestrian Rua Augusta and the whole Baixa grid lead north to Rossio, the Santa Justa Lift is a few blocks west, and Alfama and the castle rise to the east. It's the perfect launchpad for a downtown day.

When is the best time to visit Praça do Comércio?

Come at early morning for near-empty photos of the arcades and river, or around sunset when the light on the Tagus turns copper. Midday is fine too, just busier and hotter with little shade in the open square.

Is there anything to pay for at Praça do Comércio?

The square itself is free and open around the clock. The only ticketed extra is the Arco da Rua Augusta viewpoint at €3.50, plus the cafés and the Lisbon Story Centre-type attractions around the edges.

Nearby in Ask Lisbon

• Rua Augusta Arch (Arco da Rua Augusta)Attraction0.09 km · 1 min walk
• Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea do Chiado (MNAC)Museum0.39 km · 5 min walk
• Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)Attraction0.4 km · 5 min walk
• Museu do Aljube — Resistência e LiberdadeMuseum0.45 km · 6 min walk
• BelcantoRestaurant0.5 km · 6 min walk