What to do in Penha de Franca

Activities, attractions and tours

National Museum of Azulejos which includes art, heritage elements and interior views
National Museum of Azulejos featuring interior views and heritage elements
Penha de Franca
National Museum of Azulejos featuring interior views and art
National Museum of Azulejos showing heritage elements and interior views
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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 and a fountain

2. Belém Tower

Belém Tower is an impressive structure on the shore of the Tagus River in Lisbon. The ornate fortification was built here over 500 years ago to fight off any hostile craft that came up the river. Gaze straight across the river from the top of the Tower Terrace to see St. Sebastian’s Fort, another fortification on the opposite shore. With the two towers in place, enemy warships could not achieve success in attacking the city.
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Belem Tower which includes heritage architecture, general coastal views and a bridge

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 in Lisbon Portugal

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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Lisbon Oceanarium which includes interior views and marine life

5. National Tile Museum

Visit the National Museum of Azulejos to view a collection of intricately painted tiles from throughout the ages. Visible all across Lisbon and beyond, these skillfully painted tiles are an important part of Portugal’s artistic heritage.
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National Museum of Azulejos featuring interior views and heritage elements

What to do in Penha de Franca

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)

Lisbon constructed a fortification along a waterway to defend its riches. Now access the structure from the shore for lovely views.

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 Penha de Franca

Lisbon

Lisbon

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

Lisbon District

Arroios

Arroios

Frequently asked questions

Is Penha de Franca worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor adventures, there are loads of great things to do in Penha de Franca. Be sure to experience the area's mix of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Penha de Franca?
Start your getaway adventures with a visit to the top attractions. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Penha de Franca while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Penha de Franca?
Plan your dream getaway by browsing our list of affordable adventures, family-friendly favourites and other fabulous things to do in Penha de Franca.
Is three days enough to stay in Penha de Franca?
Book an escape in Penha de Franca for three days and you'll have enough time to tick off its leading sights and get a taste for the local vibe. For the chance to see highlights in nearby areas and get off the tourist trail, consider hanging around for seven to ten days.
What are some activities to do in Penha de Franca with kids?
Deciding what to do in Penha de Franca with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there are loads of family-friendly attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Penha de Franca for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Penha de Franca. Whether you're into culture, nature or just love discovering new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Penha de Franca?
You don't need to splurge to enjoy a memorable getaway here. There are loads of cheap things to do in Penha de Franca for the budget-conscious traveller. Stroll through the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask for ideas from a local tour guide.