The Ferry Across the Tejo Cacilhas Elevador Panorâmico da Boca do Vento

Christ Statue (Cristo Rei)

Located to the west of Almada, the Cristo Rei statue stands as a commanding presence in the Tejo estuary, overlooking Lisbon. Its construction was finalised in 1959, following more than two decades of planning. The concept arose from a vision of Our Lady of Fátima, prophesying a time of global strife and turmoil. In response to the post-World War II era and the looming nuclear arms race, leaders sought to shield Lisboetas from these impending challenges.

During the 1930s, Cardinal Patriarch Manuel Gonçalves Cerejeira visited Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he drew inspiration from the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain. Upon his return to Lisbon, the Cardinal proposed erecting a similar monument on the southern bank of the Tejo River, symbolising Portugal's resilience in the face of adversity. This monumental tribute serves as a beacon of hope and faith for generations to come.

Cristo Rei at sunset

The Cristo Rei statue stands 100 metres tall on elevated ground that is already 82 metres above sea level. There is a lift that whisks you up 80 metres to the viewing platform, where incredible views over Lisbon await your eyes and camera. There's also a souvenir shop here selling the usual tat. For those who don't consider themselves religious, it the amazing views that draws them to this monument. It's worth checking the weather forecast at the start of your day to avoid disappointment.

Weekdays: 09h30 – 18h00 | Weekends: 09h30 – 19h00 | €5.00
Santuário de Cristo Rei, 2800-058, Almada, Portugal. | 38° 40' 40.7" N | 09° 09' 52.4" W
+351 212 751 000 | info@cristorei.pt | Website

The Ferry Across the Tejo

The most adventurous way to get to the Cristo Rei statue is by taking the ferry that leaves Cais do Sodré. It is ideally located on the green metro line and terminates at Cacilhas. The ferries are regular. The trip takes about 15 minutes. The white and orange boats are known as Cacilheiros locally.
Weekdays: 06h00 – 22h45 | Weekends: 7h30 – 22h45

Each Way: €1.20 | Timetable

Rua da Cintura do Porto de Lisboa - Terminal Fluvial do Cais do Sodré, 1249-249 Lisboa, Portugal.
38° 44' 46.05" N | 09° 05' 50.8" W
+351 210 139 287 | Website

Once you reach Cacilhas you can catch the number 101 bus from the bus stop opposite which drops you off at the Cristo Rei monument (buy ticket from driver). Timetable

Cais do Sodré - Cacilhas ferry

TOP TOURS OF THE CRISTO REI STATUE

Cristo Rei Tuk Tuk Tour With River cruise

This tour will start from your hotel or at the initial meeting point, then we will cross the downtown Lisbon and see some secret sights of this part of the city. We will make our way to the Cristo Rei either by crossing the 25 of April bridge or by ferry boat.

Once at the Cristo Rei you will have around 40 minutes to enjoy the views and go to the highest point of the statue before returning to Lisbon. On this tour, there is an added option of lunch on the rierside at a seafood restaurant.

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Private Visit to the Sanctuary of Cristo-Rei with Hiking

Discover a novel approach to exploring the Sanctuary of Cristo-Rei with a private visit and hiking experience. Embark on this unique journey starting from the river terminal at Cais do Sodré, where guests board a ferry bound for the trailhead. Traverse a scenic path along the riverside of Almada, offering unparalleled vistas of Lisbon, before concluding with an ascent to the Sanctuary grounds and the monumental statue itself. This leisurely hike spans just a few hours, making it an ideal excursion for visitors seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

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Private Tour for 1 to 8 people: Cristo Rei, Palmela, Setúbal, Arrábida, Sesimbra

Private Tour: Cristo Rei, Palmela, Setúbal, Arrábida, Sesimbra

After picking you up from your hotel we'll head straight to the Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei where we'll spend 45 mins taking in the amazing views oer Lisbon on the opposite bank of the river Tejo. Then we'll travel onto Palmela to visit the town's incredible 9th century castle. From its vantage point you can marvel at the views across the Arrabida National Park. Then off to Setúbal where you'll have an hour and a half to explore the marina and enjoy a spot of lunch. Then we return to the Arrabida National Park and end up in Sesimbra and its fine castle.

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Cacilhas

Explore the culinary delights of Cacilhas, boasting some of the finest fish and seafood restaurants in the area. Indulge in a diverse array of dishes complemented by a refreshing pint against the backdrop of stunning river views towards Lisbon. Don't miss the opportunity to savour the renowned Cataplana stew, prepared in the traditional copper vessel of the same name. Alongside the promenade, the former Lisnave Shipyard stands as a testament to Portugal's maritime heritage, housing the impressive Fragata D. Fernando II e Glória. This wooden-hulled frigate, once Portugal's final sailing warship, now serves as a captivating museum following its meticulous restoration in 1993. Experience a piece of history firsthand as you explore these maritime treasures, including the adjacent Barracuda submarine, both open to the public as part of the Almada Naval Museum.

Elevador Panorâmico da Boca do Vento

A short walk along the old riverside promenade and along the Cais do Ginjal, past disused warehouses and derelict docks, is the base of the Elevador Panorâmico da Boca do Vento cliff elevator at the Jardim do Rio (River Garden). Constructed in 2000 this panoramic elevator whisks you up to old town Almada. At the top is a viewing platform that displays amazing vistas over the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge and Lisbon, especially when the sun is setting. The town of Almada has its own charm. However, you'll need your graffiti blinkers. There are plenty of viewpoints in the town, but most people will walk right through to get to the Cristo Rei statue on the town's western edge.

Daily: 08h00 – 00h00
Each Way: €1.00
Largo da Boca de Vento 2800, Almada, Lisbon, Portugal. | 38° 41' 05.2" N | 09° 09' 32.4" W