What to do in Povoa de Santa Iria

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Rossio Square

Officially named Praça Dom Pedro IV, this centrally located square is much more commonly known simply as Rossio. Come here at any time of the day to find the square abuzz, as people gather to socialize at cafés around the square’s edge.
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Rossio Square featuring a square or plaza, street scenes and a fountain

2. Belém Tower

In the early 16th Century, this four-storey tower was built on basaltic rocks found by the Tagus River, in close proximity to the riverbank, with the intention of supplementing the existing fortification defences along the sea approach to Lisbon.
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Belem Tower which includes general coastal views, a bridge and a sunset

3. Santa Justa Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator connects the hilltop neighborhood Bairro Alto with downtown Baixa. The gothic, iron structure rises up from the neoclassical architecture of downtown. The elevator has been in operation since 1905 and was originally operated by a steam engine. Today it’s powered by an electric engine and is a great way to enjoy views over the city. Visit the elevator’s rooftop café.
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Santa Justa Elevator which includes outdoor eating, nightlife and night scenes

4. Lisbon Oceanarium

The Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe and houses more than 8,000 fish, birds, mammals and invertebrates. Bring the family to be entertained while learning about conservation and ocean habitats around the world.
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Enjoy an underwater adventure at one of the world’s largest and most diverse aquariums right on Lisbon’s beautiful waterfront.

5. Pena Palace

An icon of the region, the striking orange-and-yellow Pena Palace stands out amid the lush forest-covered Sintra Mountains. Inspect the eclectic architecture and ostentatious interior of this former royal summer retreat and stroll through the pretty surrounding park, where you’ll find temples and other follies hidden among the trees and flowers.
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Pena Palace showing a castle and heritage elements

What to do in Povoa de Santa Iria

Popular places to visit

Rossio Square featuring a square or plaza, street scenes and a fountain

Rossio Square

4/5(881 reviews)

See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.

Rossio Square
Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade

During your trip to Santo Antonio, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Avenida da Liberdade. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this romantic area or seek out the local tours.

Avenida da Liberdade
Campo Grande

Campo Grande

You can learn about the history of Alvalade when you stop by Campo Grande. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Campo Grande
Marquis of Pombal Square

Marquis of Pombal Square

4/5(259 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Lisbon with a stop at Marquis of Pombal Square. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed art galleries in this culturally rich area.

Marquis of Pombal Square
Belem Tower which includes general coastal views, a bridge and a sunset

Belém Tower

4.5/5(779 reviews)

Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the northern bank of the Tagus River in the Belém district of Lisbon.

Belém Tower
Santa Justa Elevator which includes outdoor eating, nightlife and night scenes

Santa Justa Elevator

4/5(719 reviews)

Ride the elevator designed in the 19th century to connect the districts of hilltop Bairro Alto and downtown Baixa. Enjoy views from the café atop the gothic lift.

Santa Justa Elevator
Carcavelos Beach

Carcavelos Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Carcavelos Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Carcavelos. Amble around the area's seaside or seek out its surfing spots.

Carcavelos Beach
Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

4.5/5(183 reviews)

Enjoy an underwater adventure at one of the world’s largest and most diverse aquariums right on Lisbon’s beautiful waterfront.

Lisbon Oceanarium
Pena Palace showing a castle and heritage elements

Pena Palace

4.5/5(460 reviews)

This exuberant construction, a former royal retreat set high in the hills of Sintra, features a colorful assortment of turreted towers and domes.

Pena Palace

Day trip destinations from Povoa de Santa Iria

Miradouro de Santa Luzia showing a lake or waterhole and a coastal town

Lisbon District

Frequently asked questions

Is Povoa de Santa Iria worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Povoa de Santa Iria is explore Lisbon Oceanarium. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's cycling and walking trails.
How do I spend a day in Povoa de Santa Iria?
Begin your day with a visit to Lisbon Oceanarium and Vasco da Gama Tower. Then, check out other areas of Povoa de Santa Iria for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Povoa de Santa Iria?
Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the top tourist attractions in Povoa de Santa Iria and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Povoa de Santa Iria?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city sights, including Vasco da Gama Tower, Bird Watching Visitor Centre and Quinta Das Carrafouchas Vineyard. The average stay in Povoa de Santa Iria is four days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Lisbon District isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Povoa de Santa Iria with kids?
Planning what to do in Povoa de Santa Iria with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or little ones, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep them happy here.

What to do in Povoa de Santa Iria for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Povoa de Santa Iria, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Quinta Das Carrafouchas Vineyard or MEO Arena.
Are there free things to do in Povoa de Santa Iria?
From enjoying parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Povoa de Santa Iria. If you're looking for inspiration, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Estuario do Tejo Natural Reserve is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their travelling adventures.