It’s impossible to walk through Lisbon’s Baixa without noticing a single iron structure rising above the buildings, drawing both visitors and locals. This is the Elevador de Santa Justa, or Santa Justa Lift, a 19th century lift with an ornate iron-wrought design that resembles the Eiffel Tower.
As I rode the elevator for the first time, I actually felt like I was stepping back in time, and then as I reached the top, I was greeted with what became my favorite view of the Baixa district. Later, I learned that it was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, and I became even more fascinated by it!
Today, I want to tell you all about this must-see attraction, along with tips for making the most of your visit. Whether you love history, architecture, or just want a great view of Lisbon, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with the Santa Justa Lift!
Santa Justa Lift – in a nutshell
- Highlights: design, views from the top
- Opening hours: May-October: 7am – 11 pm. November-April: 7am – 10pm.
- Best time to visit: early morning or late evening
- Tickets: € 5.30 single ride
- Address: R. de Santa Justa, Lisboa 1150-060
- Nearest metro station: Baixa/Chiado, Rossio
Index
- Why visit Santa Justa Lift?
- Guide to planning your visit
- Attractions nearby
- History and architecture
1. Why visit Santa Justa Lift?
The Santa Justa Lift, or Elevador de Santa Justa in Portuguese, is not just a means of transport but also an artistic landmark in Lisbon. Made from wrought iron, its exterior features eye-catching neo-Gothic arches and geometric patterns, while the interiors have polished wood carriages that make us feel transported back in time.
Although the Santa Justa Lift is now mainly a tourist attraction, it’s also part of Lisbon’s public transportation system, connecting the lower Baixa district with Largo do Carmo above.
At the top, there’s a platform that provides panoramic views of Baixa, one of Lisbon’s busiest districts, and is a great spot for photos of famous landmarks like Rossio Square and Castle São Jorge. Besides that, it’s a great spot for enjoying the sunset in the city!
2. Guide to planning your visit
2.1. How to get there?
Accessing the Santa Justa Lift is very easy and straightforward. Starting at Rua do Ouro near Rossio Square, which you can reach by taking the green line to Rossio station on the metro, it’s just a short walk to the elevator.
If you prefer to start from the top and ride down, head to Largo do Carmo. You can get there by walking from Baixa-Chiado metro station, which is served by both the blue and green lines. This is a great route to explore some of Lisbon’s upper districts before descending.
2.2. How to get tickets?
Buying tickets for the Santa Justa Elevator, which is operated by Carris and part of Lisbon’s public transport system as route 54E, is also very simple. The round-trip fare for the elevator is € 5.30, and you can purchase tickets at the ticket office at the base of the lift.
If you’re planning on exploring more than just the Santa Justa Lift, I’d recommend purchasing a 24-hour public transport ticket for € 6.80. This pass includes access to the Santa Justa Elevator, as well as trams, funiculars, metros, and buses throughout the city. It’s a great option for tourists planning extensive sightseeing!
Another cost-effective option is the “Zapping” fare, which requires loading credit onto a Navegante card (initial cost € 0.50). With this method, each trip on the Santa Justa Elevator costs just € 1.70, offering significant savings compared to standard fares.
You can buy both the 24-hour pass and Zapping credits at metro stations like Baixa-Chiado or Rossio, but not directly at the lift. The 24-hour ticket allows you to visit various historic and cultural sites in Lisbon using convenient transportation options, providing more flexibility for exploring the city.
2.3. Opening hours and best time to visit
The Elevador de Santa Justa in Lisbon operates daily, with different schedules depending on the season. From May to October, the lift is open from 7 am to 11 pm, and from November to April, it closes at 10 pm.
During peak hours, from 9 am to 7 pm, there are five departures per hour. For precise times and any updates, check the Carris website.
As a popular tourist attraction with a capacity of only 25 people per ride, the Santa Justa Lift often experiences busy periods. To avoid crowds, consider going early in the morning (before 9:30 am) or late in the evening (about half an hour after sunset), when there are generally fewer visitors.
During peak hours, the lines for ascending trips are usually longer due to the demand for city views, but descending is often quicker and less crowded.
If you want to reach Largo do Carmo without waiting for a downward ride, consider walking uphill via the Baixa-Chiado metro station, where escalators provide easier access.
For those primarily interested in viewing Lisbon’s landscapes rather than riding the lift itself, the upper walkway entry is free. This option offers clear vistas without needing tickets or waiting in line, allowing you to enjoy the city’s beauty at your own pace!
3. Attractions nearby
Located a short walk from the Santa Justa Lift, the Carmo Convent and Archaeological Museum is a must-visit attraction in Lisbon. This Gothic church, damaged in the 1755 earthquake, now stands in ruins, displaying artifacts from different periods, including ancient tombstones, statues, and mosaics.
Nearby, you’ll also find Livraria Bertrand, the world’s oldest operating bookstore according to Guinness World Records. Established in 1732 and situated in the Baixa district, this historic bookstore houses a vast collection of books and offers a unique look into centuries of literary tradition.
Baixa itself is a must-visit neighborhood in Lisbon, known for its broad pedestrian streets lined with cafes and shops set among neoclassical buildings.
A short walk from Baixa brings you to Rossio Square, officially known as Praça Dom Pedro IV. This historic square has long been a central gathering spot, featuring baroque fountains and detailed mosaic pavements that showcase Lisbon’s cultural heritage. It’s definitely worth visiting!
4. History and architecture
The Elevador de Santa Justa, also known as the Santa Justa Lift, was created to help people navigate Lisbon’s steep hills, being part of a broader strategy that includes three funiculars (Gloria, Bica and Lavra).
Designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, who was influenced by Gustave Eiffel, it opened in July 1902. Initially, this 147-foot (45-meter) tall structure used a steam engine, which was upgraded to an electric motor in 1907 for better efficiency.
Funded by the royal court for its urban development significance, the lift initially operated without cabins; these were added later to improve functionality and safety. The lift also features a Gothic upper walkway, officially opened by King Carlos I in August 1901, a year before the lift itself began operations.
Despite a severe storm on its opening day, the elevator quickly gained popularity, selling over 3,000 tickets on its first day and seeing half a million passengers within its first year.
The elevator includes an observation deck offering expansive views of the Baixa area, and, although it was originally designed to hold 24 passengers, it now carries 20 upwards and 15 downwards to ensure safety.
Declared a National Monument in 2002 due to its historical importance, the Elevador de Santa Justa is now managed by Carris Corporation, which took over in 1973 and oversees most public transport services in Lisbon. Today, the lift remains both functional and iconic, attracting tourists and locals alike.
Experience Lisbon from the stunning Santa Justa Lift!
The Elevador de Santa Justa is more than just a part of Lisbon’s urban transport system, it’s a beautiful piece of architecture that offers sweeping views over the Baixa district.
It’s the perfect place for panoramic photos and experiencing the city from a unique perspective, and I think it’s one of those places you just can’t miss while in Lisbon.
Whether you’re using it as a means of transportation or simply want to see its incredible craftsmanship up close, I’m sure you won’t regret visiting this unique and beautiful work of art!
