Parque Recreativo dos Moinhos de Santana

Parque Recreativo dos Moinhos de Santana is a recreational green space in western Lisbon, close to Monsanto Forest Park. It takes its name from two old windmills standing on the highest ground in the park, which look out over the city and the Tagus River. The park has been open to the public since 1997 and covers roughly five hectares.

What is there to see in the park?

The two windmills are the landmark of the place, and are described as about three centuries old. They sit on a rise beside a circular viewpoint. From here you can take in a wide panorama: the Tagus, the 25 de Abril Bridge, the Christ the King statue across the water, and neighbourhoods such as Belém, Algés, Restelo and Ajuda.

The rest of the park is a calm space for relaxing. Broad lawns, plenty of trees and shrubs offer shade on hot days, and a small lake with a little waterfall adds to the scenery. Paths run through the grounds, so it works equally well for an easy stroll or a jog.

What can you do at Moinhos de Santana?

• Walk or run – there is a route for walking and running, plus outdoor exercise stations.
• Picnic – a dedicated picnic area and open lawns make it easy to settle in for a few hours.
• Play with children – the playground has slides, swings and climbing nets, which makes the park popular with families.
• Skate – the lower part of the park has a skate area and a skating rink.
• Photography and sunset – the terrace by the windmills is one of the nicer viewpoints in this part of the city.

How do you get there?

The park lies between Estrada de Caselas and Rua Tristão Vaz. The address is Rua Tristão Vaz 22, 1400-052 Lisbon. You can reach it from the centre by public transport or by car; check current bus and tram routes in a journey planner, as timetables change.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and early autumn are the most pleasant, when temperatures suit walking and the lawns are green. In summer, choose the morning or late afternoon, since the hilltop can be sunny. There is no entrance ticket, so the park fits well as a free stop in a Lisbon itinerary, for example after visiting Belém.

Frequently asked questions

Is admission free? Yes, the park is public and open to visitors. Only extra services, if any, might cost money.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. There is a playground, lots of space to run around and a peaceful green setting.

Can you go inside the windmills? The windmills are mainly a landscape feature and viewpoint. Check on site or with the city's information services whether entry is possible.

How long should you plan for a visit? One to two hours is usually enough, depending on whether you plan a picnic, playtime with children or a longer walk.

Are there city views? Yes, that is one of its main strengths: the panorama includes the Tagus, the 25 de Abril Bridge and surrounding Lisbon districts.