Praça da Figueira

The basics

Situated near Rossio Square (Praça de Dom Pedro IV), Praca da Figueira is a popular meeting spot thanks to its central location. Many tours of the city begin here and continue to nearby landmarks in Lisbon’s Baixa District (Lower Town), such as St. George's Castle, Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio), and the Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa). Tours of the area typically focus on the history of the Baixa neighborhood, which was rebuilt in neoclassical style following the devastating 18th-century earthquake.

Things to know before you go

• Traditional Portuguese pastelarias (café-cum-pastry-shops) can be found at the edge of the square.
• Thanks to its central location and proximity to nearby transit stations, Praça da Figueira is an excellent setting for a spot of people-watching.
• Bring your camera: the square offers photo opportunities aplenty with St. George’s Castle in the background.

How to get there

Find Praça da Figueira in the Baixa neighborhood of Lisbon. Ride tram line 15 to the square, or take the metro green line to nearby Rossio station.

When to get there

Praça da Figueira is busy at almost all times. Shade is pretty limited here, so it’s best to go in the morning or late afternoon during the hot summer months (June–August).

Explore Baixa’s Historic Squares

During its post-earthquake overhaul, the Baixa neighborhood was redesigned in a grid pattern incorporating several major squares, most of which are bordered by examples of Pombaline architecture—a native Portuguese style that incorporates neoclassical influences and anti-seismic features. Right next to Praça da Figueira, you’ll find two other historic squares—Rossio Square and Largo de Sao Domingos—while the nearby waterfront is home to Commerce Square, where the main residence of the Portuguese monarchs once stood.