One of the best things to do in Sete Rios Portugal is visit the Jardim Zoologico, Lisbon’s famous zoological park. Kids love it, and adults appreciate its beautiful and well-maintained collections.
Philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian gathered one of the world’s finest art collections here, which includes paintings by old masters and Egyptian antiquities. There’s also an exhibition about Portuguese influence in Asia through screens, Japanese furniture and more.
1. Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium is a must-see for marine biology lovers. It has a huge tank, educational presentations, and family-friendly activities. It also encourages conservation and runs the largest environmental education program in Portugal.
Admire sharks and rays swimming close by, or laugh at the sweet otters that act like models when posing for pictures. The aquarium is a short walk from Estacao do Oriente, a major train station that services trains to destinations across Portugal.
2. National Pantheon
The National Pantheon is the final resting place for Portugal’s most illustrious figures—including the navigator Vasco da Gama, fado singer Amalia Rodrigues, and a number of presidents. The domed church has marble interiors and stunning views over Alfama from its terrace.
To get here from Sete Rios Station, take the blue line of Lisbon Metro to Santo Apolonia then walk 10 minutes uphill or disembark Tram 28 at Largo Calhariz.
3. Santa Catarina Viewpoint
While there are many scenic viewpoints in Lisbon, the Santa Catarina Viewpoint is a favorite spot for young locals to relax and socialize during sunset. It is often crowded with people drinking wine or beer and listening to street musicians before and after sunset.
The view overlooks the 25 de Abril Bridge and a neighborhood called Madragoa. The viewpoint also boasts attractive gardens and a statue of Adamastor, the mythical sea monster created by Luis de Camoes to personify the dangerous oceans that blocked Portuguese explorers’ voyages to India.
4. Graca Viewpoint
The Graca neighborhood has one of Lisbon’s most famous viewpoints and is a must-visit for anyone wanting to get the best views of the city. Sip a glass of vinho verde, a unique Portuguese style of wine, while admiring painted tile facades and steep alleyways.
A pine-shaded terrace at the top of one of the neighborhood’s tallest hills is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to admire Lisbon. It offers incredible views of the castle, Mouraria district, and Baixa Pombalina, especially at sunset.
5. National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado
Located in the former Convent of Sao Francisco, this museum is one of the most important – and largest – museums of modern art in Portugal. Its collection spans the history of Portuguese art, from romanticism to naturalism, realism, expressionism, and surrealism.
Most routes of hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses stop here, and guided tours are available. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits and an outdoor cafe with city views.
6. Orient Museum
The Orient Museum showcases a collection of Asian art and artifacts. Some of the highlights include Namban (southern barbarian) artwork from Japan featuring exaggerated depictions of foreigners, porcelain, furniture and folding screens from China and India.
Sete Rios is also a major train and bus station in Lisbon, operated by Rede Ferroviaria Nacional. Many local Lisbon city buses as well as intercity bus services run from here. For those travelling by intercity coach, you can purchase tickets from the ticket offices at Sete Rios.
7. Evora’s Roman Temple
One of Portugal’s most impressive Roman monuments is located in the heart of Evora. This ornate temple dedicated to Diana is a standout attraction for visitors to this UNESCO-listed city.
During your visit to the temple don’t miss out on visiting a nearby wine and olive oil farm, Cartuxa. This is a great way to learn about the area’s culture and history.
During your stay in Evora be sure to admire the ancient town walls and the Church of Sao Francisco and Chapel of Bones. These are both included in the price of your ticket.
8. Bone Chapel
The macabre Chapel of Bones, or Capela dos Ossos, is a popular attraction that has intrigued visitors for centuries. The walls, pillars and ceiling of the chapel are decorated with bones and skulls in an eerily beautiful way.
The best time to visit the Bone Chapel is in spring and autumn, when it’s less crowded. The summer months can be hot and can cause long lines to enter.
Visiting this landmark is a great way to pass the time while waiting for your train at Sete Rios. You can also catch local city buses and the metro at this transportation hub.
9. Lisbon Zoo
One of the top things to do in Lisbon with kids is to take them to the zoo and help them explore its wildlife. You can also watch a number of animal shows here.
The zoo is not just a tourist attraction but a center dedicated to the conservation, reproduction, and eventual reintroduction of endangered species through scientific study and environmental enrichment programs. It houses more than 2,000 animals from 300 different species.
