Jardim das Necessidades
Lisbon
About
While every visitor to Lisbon knows the Jardim da Estrela and the Parque Eduardo VII, the Jardim das Necessidades in the Alcântara district receives a fraction of the tourist attention despite being arguably more beautiful. The estate dates to 1747 when it was established as a royal retreat; today it belongs to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is open to the public.
The garden descends a hillside across 16 hectares, containing centuries-old camellias that bloom spectacularly in winter, enormous lemon trees, a lake, kitchen gardens, and peacocks that wander freely across the paths. The upper terrace overlooks the Tagus with the 25 de Abril Bridge visible in the distance. On weekday mornings, the garden is almost entirely empty — an extraordinary contrast with Belém, just 2 km away. Combine with the LX Factory for a full Alcântara day.