The Cristo Rei in Lisbon

The Cristo Rei is one of Lisbon’s main attractions, located on the south bank of the Tagus River, this imposing statue is considered a symbol of the Catholic faith and devotion to Jesus Christ. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and the 25th of April Bridge. If you are visiting Lisbon, I highly recommend that you take a trip to the Cristo Rei to admire the breathtaking views it offers. In this guide,

I’ll show you everything there is to know about the Cristo Rei, from its history and significance, to how to get there and what to see and do once there. I’ll also give you some practical information on how to plan your visit, as well as tips on how to make the most of it. Ready to discover one of Lisbon’s gems? Then follow me for a full tour of the Cristo Rei.

Guided tour of Lisbon’s Cristo Rei

Guided tours of the Cristo Rei are available for visitors who wish to learn more about the history and significance of the statue. The tours I have selected for you below are led by experienced english-speaking guides, who give detailed information about the architecture, history and symbols of the statue. The english-speaking guided tours are an excellent way to discover the Cristo Rei in depth and make the most of your visit.

How to access the Cristo Rei?

Cristo Rei is located on the south bank of the Tagus River, about 10 km from Lisbon. It is easily accessible by car or public transport.

Car: There is free parking available for visitors who wish to access the Cristo Rei by car. It is advisable to follow the road signs to reach Cristo Rei. It is possible to park in the car park at the main entrance.

Public transport: There are several options for accessing the Cristo Rei by public transport. You can take bus number 158 from the Sete Rios bus station in Lisbon and get off at the Cristo Rei stop.

It is also possible to take the train from Lisbon-Oriente station to Cacilhas station and then take the ferry to the Cristo Rei stop. It is also possible to take a tourist bus that includes a guided tour of Cristo Rei.

It is important to note that the Cristo Rei is a popular place of pilgrimage, so there may be queues to access the site. It is advisable to visit the Cristo Rei early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the rush hour. It is also possible to book priority entry to avoid the queues.

Practical information: opening hours, entrance fees.

Click on the Lisboa Card to order it online.

It offers discounts on transport and many activities or visits in Lisbon.

  Here is some practical information to help you plan your visit to Cristo Rei:

• Opening hours: Cristo Rei is open every day of the week from 9am to 10pm. It is advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak hours.
• Entrance fees to the Cristo Rei: Entrance to the Cristo Rei is free of charge, however there is a cost to go up to the observation platform. The rates are as follows: Adult: 7€, Child (5-12 years): 3€, Free for children under 5 years. It is possible to book priority entry to avoid queues and it is also possible to book a guided tour in French.
• Accessibility: The Cristo Rei is accessible to people with reduced mobility. There are lifts to the viewing platform. It is advisable to contact the information in advance to ensure that there are facilities for people with reduced mobility.
• Other information: Smoking is not permitted in the indoor areas of the Cristo Rei, so it is necessary to go to the designated outdoor smoking areas. It is also forbidden to bring food or drink onto the viewing platform. It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes when visiting the Cristo Rei, as there are stairs to climb to access the viewing platform. It is also advisable to check for updates on times and prices before planning your visit, as these may change depending on the season or special events.

What to see and do in Cristo Rei

The Cristo Rei is a place not to be missed on a visit to Lisbon. There are many things for visitors to see and do:

• Admire the view: One of the main reasons to visit the Cristo Rei is to admire the breathtaking views over the city of Lisbon and the 25th of April Bridge. It is possible to climb up to the observation platform to enjoy these views. It is advisable to come early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid rush hour and to enjoy the best views.
• Visit the statue: The statue itself is a masterpiece of architecture and religious symbols. It is possible to climb to the top of the statue for an even better view. It is also possible to visit the crypt beneath the statue to learn more about its history and significance.
• Explore the park: The park surrounding the statue is a beautiful place to walk and enjoy nature. There are gardens, fountains and statues to explore. It is also possible to take a boat trip on the Tagus River to see the statue from a different perspective.
• Participate in a religious ceremony: The Cristo Rei is a popular place of pilgrimage for Catholics. It is therefore possible to participate in religious ceremonies such as masses or prayers. It is important to respect the appropriate rules of conduct during these ceremonies.
• Guided tour: It is also possible to book a guided tour to learn more about the history, architecture and symbols of the statue. Guided tours are usually led by experienced, French-speaking guides and last about an hour.

In addition to visiting the Cristo Rei, there are several other things to see and do in the area:

• Visit the Museum of the Hand: The Museum of the Hand is a unique museum located near the Cristo Rei. It features exhibitions on the anatomy and function of the hand as well as workshops for children. It is ideal for families and anatomy enthusiasts.
• Take a ferry to Lisbon: The Cristo Rei is located on the other side of the Tagus River from Lisbon, so it is possible to take a ferry from the Cristo Rei stop to Lisbon. This is a great way to enjoy the views of the city on the crossing.
• Visit the fishing villages: The fishing villages of Cacilhas and Trafaria are located close to Cristo Rei. They offer a great opportunity to experience local life and taste fresh fish cuisine. It is possible to take a walk along the coast to admire the views of the Tagus and the fishing boats.
• Visit Costa de Caparica: Costa de Caparica is a charming fishing village located a few kilometres south of Cristo Rei. It is famous for its sandy beaches and lively nightlife. There are many bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and live music. The beaches of Costa de Caparica are also ideal for water sports such as surfing and paddle boarding. It is a great place to spend a pleasant day out of town.

Where to eat and sleep near Cristo Rei

Where to eat

There are many places to eat near Cristo Rei to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some suggestions:

• Restaurante Cristo Rei: This restaurant located just below the statue offers traditional Portuguese cuisine with a great view of the Cristo Rei. It is ideal for sampling local dishes such as bacalhau, cozido and pastéis de nata.
• Tasca do Zé: This small family-run restaurant is renowned for its fresh fish and seafood dishes. It is located a few minutes walk from the Cristo Rei and offers friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Casa do Alentejo: This traditional restaurant serves Alentejano cuisine, typical of the Alentejo region. It is located a few minutes drive from Cristo Rei and offers a rich and tasty local cuisine.

In summary, there are many places to eat near Cristo Rei, ranging from traditional restaurants serving local cuisine to café-restaurants for a gourmet break. It is possible to find options for all tastes and budgets, whether you are looking for an authentic dining experience or a quick break after your visit to Cristo Rei. It is advisable to book in advance for some of the popular restaurants, and to find out about local specialities to maximise your dining experience.

Where to sleep

There are many accommodation options near Cristo Rei to suit all needs and budgets. Here are some suggestions:

• Hotel Cristo Rei: This charming 3-star hotel is located right in front of the Cristo Rei statue. It offers comfortable rooms with views of the statue and a free buffet breakfast. It is ideal for those looking for a convenient and affordable option.
• Hotel Terrace Almada: This beautiful 4-star hotel is located just a short drive from the Cristo Rei. It offers luxurious rooms with private terraces and city views, as well as an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant. It is ideal for those looking for an upscale option.
• Airbnb: There are many options for accommodation via Airbnb near Cristo Rei, ranging from private flats to guest houses. This is a good option for those looking for a more authentic experience and flexibility in location and budget.
• Pousadas de Portugal: There are several pousadas, i.e. state-run hostels, near Cristo Rei, this is a good option for those looking for affordable accommodation with good value for money.

The best time to visit the Cristo Rei

There are several things to consider when determining the best time to visit the Cristo Rei. Here are some considerations to take into account:

• Peak hours: The Cristo Rei is very popular with visitors, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid rush hour. This will also give you the best views of the city of Lisbon and the 25th of April Bridge.
• Weather: The weather can also influence the best time to visit the Cristo Rei. It is best to visit when the weather is good to make the most of the views of the city. It is also advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your visit to avoid rain or fog.
• Special events: It is also important to check if there are any special events scheduled at Cristo Rei before planning your visit. There may be religious ceremonies or concerts or cultural events that can attract a lot of people and make the visit more lively. There may also be temporary closures for maintenance or renovation, so it is important to check the information before planning your visit.
• Seasons: It is also important to consider the season when planning your visit. The summer months can be hotter and busier, while the autumn and winter months can be quieter and offer clearer views of the city. It is also possible to attend specific religious ceremonies or cultural events depending on the season.

In summary, the best time to visit the Cristo Rei depends on your preferences and availability. It is advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak hours, to check the weather forecast and special events, and to take the season into account when planning your visit.

History and meaning of the Cristo Rei

The Cristo Rei is an emblematic monument of Lisbon, located on the south bank of the Tagus. It was built in the 1920s and 1930s to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the apparition of the Virgin Mary in Fatima. It is considered a symbol of the Catholic faith and devotion to Jesus Christ. It is inspired by the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which was built in 1931.

Lisbon’s Cristo Rei is 110 metres high, making it one of the tallest monuments of its kind in Europe. It stands on an 80-metre high base and is surrounded by a 30-hectare park. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and the 25th of April Bridge. The statue consists of several symbolic elements. The open hands of the statue represent welcome and welcome, the globe in the left hand represents the whole world under the reign of Jesus Christ, the cross in the right hand represents the sacrifice of Jesus for the redemption of mankind, and the twelve stars around the head represent the apostles.

The statue is also surrounded by a park with gardens, fountains and statues. The Cristo Rei is a place of pilgrimage for Catholics and is also popular with tourists for its breathtaking views of the city of Lisbon. It is considered a symbol of faith and hope, and is a place of peace and contemplation for visitors.

Tips for a safe visit to the Cristo Rei

The safety of visitors is paramount at Cristo Rei. Here are some tips for a safe visit:

• Follow the rules: It is important to follow the appropriate rules of conduct when visiting Cristo Rei. Smoking is not allowed in the indoor areas, bringing food or drink onto the viewing platform and inappropriate behaviour is not allowed.
• Dress appropriately: It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes when visiting the Cristo Rei, as there are stairs to climb to reach the observation platform. It is also advisable to bring warm clothes for cooler days and water to avoid dehydration.
• Be vigilant: It is important to be vigilant when visiting Cristo Rei, especially when on the observation platform. It is important to follow the safety instructions and not to approach the edges or prohibited areas. It is also important to supervise children at all times to avoid accidents.
• Use safety equipment: There is safety equipment such as safety barriers and railings on the viewing platform. It is important to use them to avoid accidents. Follow the instructions of the staff: Cristo Rei staff are trained to handle emergency situations. It is important to follow their instructions in case of fire, evacuation or other emergency situations.

In summary, it is important to follow the rules of conduct, wear appropriate clothing, be alert, use safety equipment and follow the instructions of the staff for a safe visit to Cristo Rei.

Combine the visit to Cristo Rei with other attractions in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city rich in history, culture and entertainment, so it is possible to combine your visit to Cristo Rei with other Lisbon attractions. Here are some ideas to maximize your stay in Lisbon:

• Visit Lisbon’s historic centre: Lisbon’s historic centre is full of cultural and historical attractions such as Rossio Square, Sé Cathedral, the Hieronymites Monastery and São Jorge Castle. It is possible to combine a visit to Cristo Rei with a visit to these historical sites to get a complete view of Lisbon’s history.
• Take a tram: The Lisbon tram is one of the symbols of the city, it is possible to take tram 28 to Cristo Rei, and continue exploring the city by taking other tram lines to discover Lisbon’s neighbourhoods.
• Visit the Belem district: The Belem district is located close to the Cristo Rei and is famous for its monuments such as the Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. It is possible to combine a visit to the Cristo Rei with a visit to these sites to learn more about the maritime history of Lisbon.

In summary, it is possible to combine your visit to the Cristo Rei with other attractions in Lisbon, such as the discovery of the historical centre, the trams, or the monuments of Belem. It is possible to plan a complete visit to the city by combining these different activities to have a complete experience of Lisbon.

Interesting facts about the Cristo Rei

The Cristo Rei is an emblematic place in Lisbon, rich in history and culture. Here are some interesting facts about the Cristo Rei:

• It is a symbol of faith: The Cristo Rei is a symbol of the Catholic faith for the people of Lisbon and the surrounding area. It was built to honour the promises made by the people of Lisbon to build a monument to Jesus Christ after the end of the Spanish Civil War.
• It is a place of pilgrimage: The Cristo Rei is a place of pilgrimage for Catholics from all over Portugal and even from other countries. There are regular masses and religious celebrations that take place on the viewing platform.
• It is similar to Christ the Redeemer in Rio: The Cristo Rei is similar to Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was built in response to a competition launched by the Portuguese government to build a monument similar to Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.
• It has an observation platform: The observation platform at the top of the Cristo Rei offers a breathtaking view of Lisbon, the Tagus and the surrounding area. It is possible to see up to 25 kilometres in all directions from the platform.