Santa Justa Elevator (Elevador de Santa Justa)

The Santa Justa Elevator, also known as Elevador de Santa Justa, is an iconic landmark in Lisbon that offers a unique experience and stunning views of the city. Constructed in 1902, this historical elevator was designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel, blending the Neo-Gothic style with iron architecture.

This architectural marvel is one of the city's most popular attractions, connecting the lower Baixa district with the upper Bairro Alto. The elevator boasts intricate ironwork, beautiful filigree designs, and a wooden interior. Ascending 45 metres, it provides a swift and convenient way for visitors to access the upper city.

At the top, the viewing platform offers panoramic views of Lisbon, including landmarks such as the Tagus River, Rossio Square, and São Jorge Castle. This breathtaking vista is perfect for capturing memorable photos.

A visit to the Santa Justa Elevator is a must-do for tourists seeking a unique experience in Lisbon. Whether you ride the elevator to admire its design and engineering or to enjoy the stunning city views, this landmark offers a blend of history, architecture, and exceptional vistas that should not be missed.

ABOUT

View of Elevador de Santa Justa from the Rua de Santa Justa

Towards the end of the 19th century, a solution to allow easy access to the Largo do Carmo from the Baixa district became essential. The winning resolution was the brainchild of the Portuguese engineer Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel. The answer came in the guise of the iron clad Elevador de Santa Justa. When it started operations in 1902 it was powered by steam. It was a marvel of its time, both in technology and in style. The Neo-Gothic iron construction rises 45 metres (148ft) onto the Largo do Carmo, passing the ruins of the Igreja do Carmo church along the way.

The two counterpoised cabins initially had a capacity for 24 passengers in each. They were later enlarged to carry 29. Inside the period style continues, lavishly lined with wood, with proud looking brass dials and instruments. One ascends to a viewing platform and café that provides a birds-eye view of Lisbon. The elevator was electrified in 1907 and declared a national monument in 2002. As with the trams and funiculars, the Elevador de Santa Justa remains a part of Lisbon's public transport network. Carris's tickets and passes are accepted. The Elevador de Santa Justa is one of Lisbon's most loved monuments and precipitates long queues.

At The Top

At the top of the elevator is a flat-roofed walkway that leads 15 metres to the Largo do Carmo through an iron gate. If the views here are still not enough, you can ascend further up a spiral staircase to the viewing platform on the roof. Here stunning 360º views over the Baixa and the Castle hill opposite await you. This view is made even more romantic in the evening as the sunset bathes the city below with warm hues. The viewing platform has a small entrance fee not included as part of the Carris day pass.

Elevator Times

Summer (March - October) Daily: 07h00 - 23h00
Winter (November - February) Daily: 07h00 - 21h00

Santa Justa Viewpoint Times

Summer (March - October) Daily: 09h00 - 23h00
Winter (November - February) Daily: 09h00 - 21h00

Tariffs

'Santa Justa' Ticket €5.30 (bought onboard, valid for two trips, includes access to the viewpoint),
24 hour Carris ticket Adult: €6.00, Concessionary: €4.00, Under 5: FREE,
Passes: Lisboa Viva, 7Colinas or Viva Viagem cards with tickets valid on the CARRIS network; also valid are Yellow Bus &

Lisbon Card: FREE
Access to 'Santa Justa viewpoint only: €1.50€

| Lower Entrance: Rua de Santa Justa 98, 1100-500, Lisbon, Portugal
38° 42' 43.7"N | 09° 08' 21.9"W

| Top Entrance: Tv. Dom Pedro de Menezes, 1200, Lisbon, Portugal
38° 42' 42.9"N | 09° 08' 24.1"W

Views over to the Alfama from the top of the Elevador de Santa Justa

TOP LISBON TOURS

True 4Hour/Half day TukTuk Tour of Lisbon - Local Overview!

True 4 Hour TukTuk Tour of Lisbon

Experience Lisbon efficiently with a private half-day tuk-tuk tour, perfect for those seeking an eco-friendly way to explore the city. Personalise your itinerary and discover top attractions such as the historic Bairro Alto neighbourhood, the stunning Jerónimos Monastery and the breathtaking Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Travel beyond the city centre to uncover multiple neighbourhoods while covering more ground quickly. This private tour offers flexibility and an intimate experience, allowing you to soak in Lisbon's vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks while enjoying the comfort of your private tuk-tuk.

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Full-Day Tour Best of Sintra and Cascais from Lisbon

Discover the enchanting beauty of Sintra on a full-day small-group tour from Lisbon. Explore the region's UNESCO-listed sites, including the majestic Pena Palace and charming Sintra Village. Witness stunning views from Cabo da Roca, Europe's westernmost point, and take in the coastal allure of the picturesque fishing village of Cascais. Enjoy personalised attention from your guide throughout this intimate experience, limited to eight people. Round-trip transportation from your Lisbon hotel is included, ensuring a seamless journey. Experience the romantic landscape of Sintra and Cascais on this unforgettable tour.

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Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon

Explore the best of Lisbon on this private tour with an experienced guide. Journey through Portugal's capital, learning about its rich history while visiting top landmarks. Travel efficiently in an air-conditioned vehicle and discover historic districts like Chiado, Alfama, Baixa, and Belem on foot. Choose a morning or afternoon departure and enjoy convenient pickup and drop-off at your Lisbon hotel or cruise terminal. Taste the world-renowned pastel de Belém and immerse yourself in the charm of Lisbon. A private guide and vehicle provide a personalised experience as you uncover the highlights of the city.

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Largo do Carmo

This small square has tranquillity that betrays its turbulent past. Its Pombaline buildings and the 18th-century fountain were built to replace the devastated buildings which crumbled during the 1755 earthquake. Left unrestored as a monument to the tragedy, the ruins of the Carmo Convent is located on the Northern side of the square. The western wing of the Convent eventually became the headquarters of the Republican National Guard and played a pivotal role in the definitive moment of the Carnation Revolution of 1974. On the 25th of April, the last prime minister of the dictatorship regime was held up here before finally succumbing to the wishes of the crowd of thousands outside in the square.

In the heart of the square is the delightful fountain of (Chafariz do) Carmo which was erected here in 1796. The Bignoniaceae trees which occupy the perimeter of the square come from South America, During the months of May and June they bathe the square in beautiful purple blossoms.

Republican National Guard Museum

The museum is easy to spot in the Largo do Carmo. Guards in ceremonial uniform stand sentinel in from of guard boxes at the entrance. After the 1755 earthquake, a part of the ruined Carmo Convent and Church was converted into a military base. Today it is the headquarters of the National Republican Guard, the military-run police force that polices the rural areas of Portugal. The museum traces the history of the organisation from its beginnings in 1911 to the present day and includes some interesting artefacts and exhibits. Items such as motorcycles, uniforms and weapons and other memorabilia. The museum opened in 2014 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 'Carnation Revolution', when, on 25th April 1974, the right-wing dictatorship was overthrown. A poignant icon of this somewhat bloodless coup is revolting army troops in the streets of Lisbon with flowers in their gun barrels, one of which is on display here. The headquarters of the Republican National Guard played a pivotal role in the definitive moment of the Revolution and on the 25th of April the last prime minister of the dictatorship regime was held up here before finally succumbing to the wishes of the crowd of thousands outside in this beautiful square. Monday - Saturday 10h00 - 18h00, Sunday: CLOSED | €2.00

Getting There

	758 \| Tram #28+Elevator Santa Justa
	Baixa-Chiado station on the Blue & Green Lines

27 Largo do Carmo, 1200-090, Lisbon, Portugal.
38° 42' 44.1"N | 09° 08' 27.5"W | +351 213 217 000
museu@gnr.pt | Website

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