Santa Justa Lift Lisbon – Elevador de Santa Justa Lisboa
How to Visit the Elevador de Santa Justa Lisboa – Location, Tickets and Tips
The Santa Justa Lift is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, a neo-Gothic iron tower that has been carrying passengers between the Baixa and Chiado neighbourhoods for more than a century. From the top, you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Combining history, design and unforgettable views, it’s considered a must-see attraction in Lisbon.
Entry is included for free with the Lisboa Card, which also gives you unlimited access to public transport (buses, trams, metro, and trains to Sintra) and includes entry to 50+ attractions like São Jorge Castle and Jerónimos Monastery. You’ll also get discounts at selected shops and museums.
Prices start from just €31. See all benefits and book your Lisboa Card here.
Santa Justa Lift Lisbon – General Information |
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Location |
R. de Santa Justa, 1150-060 Lisboa, Portugal. |
Opening Times |
As of 2025: |
Entry and Tickets |
A return trip on the Santa Justa Lift costs €6.10 if paid at the lift. |
History of Santa Justa Lift
The Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) is one of Lisbon’s most recognisable landmarks. Rising above the Baixa district, this impressive wrought-iron tower is more than just a mode of transportation in Lisbon; it’s a historical and architectural gem.
The lift was designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a Portuguese engineer who trained under Gustave Eiffel, and his influence can clearly be seen in the iron structure. Construction finished in 1902, and the tower quickly became famous for its decorative arches and intricate ironwork.
When it first opened, the lift was powered by steam engines. In 1907, it was converted to electric power, making it faster and more reliable. Its original purpose was to connect the Baixa neighbourhood, located at the lower level, with Carmo Square, situated on a higher hill. This made it easier for people to move between the two areas without having to navigate the steep inclines.
It underwent major renovation and structural works in 2006, followed by another significant restoration project in 2019 to ensure safety and preserve its original design.
Is the Santa Justa Lift Worth Visiting?
The Santa Justa Lift is one of Lisbon’s most recognisable landmarks and for many visitors it feels like a must-see. Its impressive neo-Gothic tower and panoramic views make it a unique experience, especially if you go at the right time of day. From the top you can take in Baixa’s rooftops, Rossio Square, the Tagus River and even São Jorge Castle.
That said, it’s important to set expectations. The lift itself is a short ride in a small cabin that fits only around 25 people, and in high season queues of up to 60 minutes are not unusual. The ticket price of €6.10 can also feel high compared to other viewpoints in Lisbon that are larger and less crowded. Another important detail is that the top miradouro terrace has been closed for years for security reasons, so while you can still enjoy the walkway at the upper level, the very highest platform is currently off limits. If you have the Lisboa Card, however, the ride is included and much easier to justify.
The best way to enjoy the lift is to visit either first thing in the morning or towards evening, when the atmosphere is calmer and the city views are at their best. Another good strategy is to approach from Largo do Carmo, enjoy the viewpoint at the top without waiting in line, and then take the lift down to Baixa.
In terms of accessibility, the cabins are step-free at both entrances.
In short, the Santa Justa Lift is worth it if you want the experience of riding Lisbon’s most iconic elevator and capturing classic photos of the city. But if you are short on time or prefer to avoid queues, you can enjoy almost the same views for free from Carmo Square without stepping inside.
Santa Justa Lift Location and How to Get There
The Santa Justa Lift is located in the Baixa neighbourhood of central Lisbon, right on Rua de Santa Justa. It links downtown Baixa with the higher Carmo Square in Chiado, making it one of the most convenient landmarks to visit while exploring the historic centre.
It’s easy to combine a ride on the lift with nearby attractions such as the Carmo Convent, Rossio Square or a stroll through the streets of Baixa and Chiado.
The lift is very well connected by public transport. The nearest metro station is Baixa-Chiado (Blue and Green lines) which is just a short walk away.
If you’re using a Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus, both the Red and Yellow lines include stops within a few minutes’ walk of the elevator.
Elevador de Santa Justa: Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Elevador de Santa Justa to avoid queues?
We recommend visiting right after opening or around sunset as the busiest time is typically late morning to mid-afternoon. Also, weekdays are usually calmer than weekends. If the queues are big at the time you’re visiting, you have also the option to walk up via Largo do Carmo to enjoy the same viewpoint first and then ride the elevator down.
Is the Santa Justa Lift accessible?
The Santa Justa lift cabins are step-free at both the Baixa entrance and the upper exit, and the upper walkway is on one level.
How to visit the miradouro at Santa Justa Lift Lisbon?
The top miradouro terrace has been closed for security reasons for several years and is not currently accessible to visitors. You can still enjoy excellent views from the upper walkway that connects to Largo do Carmo, but the very highest platform is off limits.
How long is the queue for the Santa Justa Lift?
The queues at Santa Justa Lift vary a lot depending on the season and time of day. In summer and on weekends it’s common to wait between 30 and 60 minutes, as the cabins only hold 25 people at a time. Early mornings and evenings are much quieter. If you don’t want to wait, you can walk up via Largo do Carmo for the same views and ride the elevator down instead.
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