Parque Tejo

Parque Tejo is a large urban riverside park on the Tagus in Lisbon's Parque das Nações district, at the north-eastern edge of the city. It was created after the 1998 International Exhibition (Expo '98) with the aim of restoring the environmental quality of the Tagus waterfront. Today it is one of the most open green spaces in this part of Lisbon, used for walking, cycling and picnics.

Where does the park come from?

Until the late 1980s the Parque das Nações area was an industrial zone of warehouses, slaughterhouses and polluting plants. Expo '98, themed around the oceans and held on the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, triggered a complete rebuild of roughly five kilometres of shoreline. Parque Tejo belongs to that transformation. It occupies land that combines a former landfill, now sealed, with the site of a water treatment plant.

What is it like?

The park is a wide, open space right by the Tagus estuary. Its landscape relies on a system of artificial hills that break up the flat ground and open broad views over the river. Do not expect formal ornamental gardens; this is recreational green space with plenty of room to spread out.

Big events

In August 2023 the grounds of the former Tejo and Trancão Urban Park were prepared for World Youth Day in Lisbon. Since then Parque Tejo has served as a venue for large-scale events and festivals. On ordinary days it is simply a quiet park, but check the event calendar first, as parts of it can be fenced off during major shows.

Planning your visit

• Getting there: the park is in Parque das Nações, served by metro and rail. The easiest approach is to reach the Oriente station area and then walk or cycle along the river.
• Best time: morning or late afternoon, when the sun is lower and the riverside is pleasant.
• Combine with: the district has a waterfront promenade, Expo-era architecture and the Oceanarium, so the park fits well into a full-day stroll.
• Comfort: the terrain is open with little shade, so bring water and a hat in summer.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parque Tejo free to enter? As an open city park it needs no ticket. Admission to events held there depends on the organiser.

When was the park created? After Expo '98, as part of the redevelopment of the Tagus waterfront in Parque das Nações. Its current role as a large-event space dates from 2023.

Is it good for a family outing? Yes. The open space, the hills and the nearby river suit a relaxed walk with children, although facilities can be simpler than in the busier centre of the district.

How does it differ from the rest of Parque das Nações? The district is densely built and packed with Expo attractions, while Parque Tejo is its more natural, open stretch by the water.

Parque Tejo suits anyone who wants a breather after Lisbon's historic centre, with river views and a look at how the city reclaimed former industrial land.