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Ajuda Botanical Garden

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Ajuda Botanical Garden is the oldest botanical garden in Portugal, established in 1768 by order of the Marquis of Pombal. Located in immediate proximity to the Ajuda Palace in Lisbon, the garden was designed by the Italian naturalist Domingos Vandelli. The garden is laid out in a Baroque style on two levels: the upper terrace was originally intended for scientific collection and research, while the lower terrace was designated for aesthetic purposes and leisure activities. Following the 1755 earthquake, the garden was meant to contribute to restoring the cultural and scientific prestige of the Portuguese crown. The site houses a valuable collection of over 1,500 plant species from the former Portuguese colonies, including rare specimens from Brazil, Africa, and Asia. The central 40-spout fountain on the lower terrace is a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture and forms the visual center of the geometrically arranged beds.

Location: Portugal
Top sights: Chaminés d'El Rei · Miradouro de Montes Claros · Moinho do Gil
Nearby: Amadora (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	11	11	13	15	18	22	23	24	22	19	14	11
Rain mm	60	51	60	54	34	13	3	5	28	78	86	61

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The Ajuda Botanical Garden is conveniently accessible via the local public transportation network. Most visitors use the nearby urban areas as a practical starting point for their exploration of the park.

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Best season

The mild spring and early autumn months usually offer the most pleasant weather for a visit. It is typically advisable to avoid the intense midday heat during the peak summer season here.

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Terrain & paths

The grounds feature generally flat and well-maintained pathways that are highly suitable for easy walking. No special hiking skills are needed to navigate this historic and natural space.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended to explore the area comfortably. Bringing adequate sun protection and a small water bottle is also typically advised for warmer sunny days.

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Parking

Designated parking near this popular attraction is usually quite limited during busy hours. Relying on public transportation or paid parking facilities in the surrounding area is often best.

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Safety

Visitors should always remain on marked paths to protect the local botanical collections and environment. Standard urban precautions against petty theft are generally recommended in this area.

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Time needed

Exploring the park and its diverse plant species typically requires about one to two hours of your time. This allows a relaxed pace to appreciate the horticultural design and green spaces.

Geography

Coordinates

38.71390, -9.20280

Facts

The garden was founded in 1768, making it the oldest in the country.
The facility comprises two terraces with a total area of about 3.5 hectares.
Italian botanist Domingos Vandelli served as the first director.
A monumental 18th-century fountain stands in the middle of the lower terrace.
The garden houses a dragon tree estimated to be over 400 years old.
Over 1,500 different plant species from around the world are cultivated here.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ajuda National Palace<1 km · SWExplore →

MAAT Lisbon2 km · SExplore →

Belém Tower3 km · SWExplore →

Santo Condestavel Church3 km · EExplore →

Paço de São Roque5 km · EExplore →

Amadora6 km · NWExplore →

Almada6 km · SEExplore →

Caxias6 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ajuda Botanical Garden (10)

Chaminés d'El Rei

Two decorative chimneys in the garden, remnants of an old royal structure, surrounded by botanical plants.

Miradouro de Montes Claros

Viewpoint over Lisbon and the Tagus River, a quiet spot overlooking the hills and water.

Moinho do Gil

Old windmill in the botanical garden, a relic of rural past within urban nature.

Moinho de Santana

Historic windmill, part of the mill group in the park, with a view over the city.

Moinho Velho

Oldest mill on the site, restored, standing as a quiet monument to agricultural history.

Parque Recreativo dos Moinhos de Santana🌳 park

Park with two old mills, wide lawns, many trees and shrubs, overlooking Lisbon and the Tagus.

Anfiteatro Walter Gallardo

Open-air amphitheater in the botanical garden, used for cultural events and concerts.

Mirante da Ajuda

Lookout point in the garden, offering a broad view over the roofs of Ajuda and the river.

Jardim das Damas🌳 park

Baroque garden of the Ajuda Palace, walled, with a viewing terrace over the city and Tagus, unfinished, destroyed by fire in 1794.

Pedreira dos Catos

Former quarry in the garden, now characterized by succulents and rocks, a natural spot.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is this botanical garden?

It was founded in 1768, making it the oldest botanical garden in Portugal.

Does the garden offer a good view?

Yes, due to its elevated location, it has a wonderful view of the Tagus River and the 25th of April Bridge.

How much is the admission?

Entry costs about 2-3 euros. It is a very quiet place away from the crowds of Belém.

Is there a café there?

Yes, there is a small, pleasant restaurant/café within the grounds with an outdoor terrace.

What is the garden's landmark?

The magnificent 18th-century 'Fonte das 40 Bicas' (Fountain of 40 Spouts) in the center of the lower garden.

Ajuda Botanical Garden: where is it located?

Ajuda Botanical Garden is located in Portugal.

Ajuda Botanical Garden: what is there to see?

Highlights include Chaminés d'El Rei, Miradouro de Montes Claros, Moinho do Gil.

Ajuda Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?