Monsanto Forest Park Lisbon
The getaway
The Monsanto Forest Park is a public park located in the western area of Lisbon, north from Belém Quarter. It's one of Lisbonites old favourite for weekends and one of the best places I know to relax on a weekday if you're in a solitary "lone wolf" mood. This is also one of the first places that I have good memories from my childhood - and where I will definitely take my baby.
The park is situated in a small mountain range. Due to intensive agricultural usage, the original vegetation was destroyed and the soil was very poor. The original idea for the reforestation of the park dates from 1868, but only in 1934 did the plans for the replantation from Duarte Pacheco (Secretary of State for the Public Works) start. Farmers and prisoners worked together and architect Keil do Amaral gave shape to a modern ecological park with leisure and sports areas.
Monsanto is the largest green patch of Lisbon and one of the largest urban forests in Europe, with a total area of 1000 Ha (10km²). In 1959, the Monsanto Park Circuit hosted the Portuguese Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Inside the Forest Park there are several other Parks and facilities: there's picnic areas, beautiful gardens, restaurants, kid-friendly playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball and football fields, open-air amphitheatres, mountain bike trails, climbing facilities, a skate park and even a camping site!
The best way to reach it to grab your bike and use the Monsanto Green Lane. Explore the nature and relax!
Explore Lisbon like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Lisbon guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Lisbon
Ferry from Belem to Trafaria
A scenic ferry ride
Ferries make public transport an adventure! Ride from Trafaria to Caparica for a relaxed beach day or enjoy views of Belém before a fresh seafood feast.
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Jardim Braancamp Freire
Birdies in city centre
In Lisbon’s city center, Jardim Braancamp Freire is a park full of birds; ducks, geese, roosters. In spring, cute ducklings appear.
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Miradouro Monte Agudo-Simo's
Best drinks, views
Discover Lisbon’s a hidden miradouro with sun, shade, and Simo’s quiosque serving drinks, tostas, and good vibes — sometimes even live music!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Jardim do Caracol da Penha
Oasis to relax
Jardim do Caracol da Penha is a wonderful spot for sunbathing. It has a community garden, a slide, and stunning views for a peaceful break.
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Lero Lero
Your extended living room
Lero Lero is a cozy wine bar and pizzeria with a soulful soundtrack, rotating wines, and unique flavors like grelos pizza. A special choice for a night out!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
MAAT
The most catchy museum
MAAT, a stunning modern building in Lisbon, offers a permanent exhibition on electricity and rotating art shows. Enjoy the river views and café afterward!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
O Ciclo
Farm to table restaurant in Mouraria
O Ciclo is a cozy, family-run spot serving seasonal, locally inspired dishes with French and Japanese influences. Go for the 7-course tasting menu!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Trinca
Cute neighbourhood restaurant
Trinca in Anjos offers a cozy tapas-style menu with fusion dishes like octopus tacos, katsu sando & Portuguese classics. Don't miss their cheese!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Praça das Flores
The most charming square
Praça das Flores is a charming hidden park in Lisbon, perfect for people-watching, relaxating in the shade, and enjoying pastries or wine from nearby!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Ruvida
Lisbon's Italian pasta underdog
A hidden pasta haven in Alcântara, run by an Italian couple bringing forgotten recipes to life. Handmade pasta, unique wines & a must-try mushroom mousse!
By
Alzbeta
Repakova
Elisabeth'Nails
Nail salon
"Elisabeth'Nails" in Lisbon is a reminder that you don't need to neglect feeling pretty & confident when you're away from home! It's an experience...
By
Sara
Trigo
Heading to Lisbon?
197 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Lisbon?
✓ 197 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
