Quebra-Costas Steps - boy in green and white striped t-shirt and black pants sitting on concrete stairs during
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Quebra-Costas Steps

4.6
·491k reviews·Coimbra, Portugal

Ascend Lisbon's iconic, steep Quebra-Costas Steps for breathtaking views and a true taste of historic Alfama.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Quebra-Costas Steps - boy in green and white striped t-shirt and black pants sitting on concrete stairs during

Quebra-Costas Steps

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend Lisbon's iconic, steep Quebra-Costas Steps for breathtaking views and a true taste of historic Alfama.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A steep but rewarding climb offering quintessential Lisbon charm and stunning city vistas."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

These steps are steep and can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for a safe and enjoyable climb. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in warmer months, carry water. The climb can be tiring. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Climb

The Iconic Climb

Alfama District

Ascend the steep, tiled steps connecting the Alfama district to the São Jorge Castle area. A true Lisbon experience!

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of the steps

Enjoy breathtaking views over Lisbon's rooftops and the Tagus River as you reach the summit.

Historic Alfama Charm

Historic Alfama Charm

Surrounding streets

Wander through the narrow, winding alleys of Alfama, soaking in the traditional Lisbon atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Quebra-Costas Steps can get incredibly crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the biggest throngs and capture better photos. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

Comfortable Footwear is Key

These are historic steps, meaning they can be uneven and steep. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating them safely and enjoying the climb. High heels or flimsy sandals are not recommended for this iconic Lisbon landmark.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer people
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Queridos 725 seguidores, É com enorme alegria que anunciamos a nossa presença no próximo @coimbrahypemarket , já no dia 12 de julho, no Quebra-Costas e Almedina! Se és de Coimbra e ainda não tiveste oportunidade de provar o Mr. Crumble, esta é a altura perfeita para nos visitares e passeares por esta feira tão especial. Vamos estar por lá com todo o carinho para vos receber e apresentar, a quem...
mr.crumbleportugal
76 likes • 9.6K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

These steps are steep and can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for a safe and enjoyable climb. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in warmer months, carry water. The climb can be tiring. :droplet:

📸 Capture the Views

The top offers fantastic photo opportunities of Lisbon and the river. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Alfama

The steps are a gateway to the charming Alfama district. Allow time to wander. :world_map:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

These steps are steep and can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for a safe and enjoyable climb. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in warmer months, carry water. The climb can be tiring. :droplet:

📸 Capture the Views

The top offers fantastic photo opportunities of Lisbon and the river. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Alfama

The steps are a gateway to the charming Alfama district. Allow time to wander. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Quebra-Costas Steps for their iconic Lisbon charm and the rewarding panoramic views they offer. The steep climb is seen as a quintessential part of exploring the historic Alfama district. However, some find the steps very challenging, especially in heat, and note they can become crowded.

What People Like

Iconic Lisbon experience
Stunning city views
Historic Alfama access

What People Dislike

Steep and tiring climb
Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Quebra-Costas Steps are located in the historic Alfama district. You can reach them by walking from the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) or by taking Tram 28 to the 'Largo das Portas do Sol' stop and walking a short distance. Many visitors find it a scenic walk from the city center.

Yes, Tram 28, one of Lisbon's most famous routes, stops nearby at Largo das Portas do Sol. This tram line is a popular way to experience the city's historic neighborhoods, though it can get very crowded.

Driving directly to the steps is not recommended due to the narrow, winding streets of Alfama and limited parking. It's best to park in a central garage and walk or use public transport.

Unfortunately, the Quebra-Costas Steps are very steep and uneven, making them challenging for individuals with mobility issues. There are alternative routes to access the upper parts of Alfama, but direct step access is difficult.

Many visitors approach from the lower end near the Lisbon Cathedral and climb upwards towards the castle area. Others start from the top and descend. The experience is rewarding either way, but the climb offers a sense of accomplishment.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Quebra-Costas Steps are a public thoroughfare and do not require an entrance ticket. You can access and climb them freely at any time.

The steps are always accessible as they are part of the public street network in Lisbon. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better views.

There is no admission fee. The Quebra-Costas Steps are a free public space for everyone to enjoy.

While technically accessible at night, it's advisable to visit during daylight for safety reasons and to fully appreciate the views and the surrounding historic district. Some areas might be dimly lit.

No booking requirements are necessary. As a public street, you can simply walk up and enjoy the steps whenever you wish.

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography are early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hour' light offers beautiful illumination, and fewer crowds mean you can compose your shots without obstruction. Avoid midday sun for softer light.

You can capture stunning shots of the tiled steps themselves, panoramic views of Lisbon's rooftops and the Tagus River, and the charming architecture of the Alfama district. It's also great for capturing people enjoying the climb.

The top of the steps offers the most expansive views. Midway points provide interesting perspectives looking up or down the steep incline. Look for colorful tiles and traditional Portuguese architecture in the background.

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full sweep of the steps and the cityscape. A standard zoom lens is versatile. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions, but be mindful of crowds. :iphone: smartphone cameras work well too!

Drone usage in Lisbon is subject to strict regulations. It's unlikely you'll be able to fly a drone over the Quebra-Costas Steps due to it being a densely populated urban area and close to historic sites. Always check current drone laws before flying.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Quebra-Costas Steps themselves are a significant climb and might be challenging for very young children or strollers, they offer a unique adventure. Consider it a fun, albeit strenuous, activity. Focus on the journey as a game – who can count the most tiles? Or who can spot the best view first?

Pack plenty of water and take breaks. The top offers rewarding views, and the surrounding Alfama district has quieter alleys to explore away from the main tourist paths. Alternatively, you can use Tram 28 to access higher points in Alfama and enjoy the views without the full climb.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Quebra-Costas Steps are a fantastic free attraction that offers incredible value. You get a workout, stunning views, and a direct connection to the historic Alfama district, all without spending a euro.

Combine the steps with exploring Alfama's free sights like its viewpoints and charming streets. For transport, consider walking from the city center or using the affordable public transport system. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs, making this a truly budget-friendly Lisbon experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Steep Ascent

The Quebra-Costas Steps (meaning 'Break-Back Steps') are a quintessential Lisbon experience, offering a direct, albeit challenging, route between the lower parts of the Alfama district and the vicinity of São Jorge Castle. These steep, tiled inclines are not for the faint of heart or those with mobility issues, but the reward is immense. The steps are a vital artery for locals and a popular shortcut for tourists exploring one of Lisbon's oldest neighborhoods.

Visitors often describe the climb as a workout, but the panoramic views that unfold as you ascend are well worth the effort. The vibrant tiles, traditional Portuguese architecture, and glimpses into daily life in Alfama make the journey itself a highlight. It’s a chance to truly feel the historic character of Lisbon, a city built on seven hills.

Pro-tip: Many travelers recommend tackling the steps early in the morning to avoid the midday sun and the largest crowds. This allows for a more relaxed climb and better photo opportunities. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the steps can be uneven and worn from centuries of use.

The Charm of Alfama

The Quebra-Costas Steps are intrinsically linked to the Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood. As you climb or descend, you'll be immersed in a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful tiles, and small squares where locals gather. Alfama is the heart of Fado music, and you might even hear the melancholic strains drifting from a nearby tasca (tavern).

Exploring Alfama after (or before) conquering the steps is highly recommended. Wander aimlessly, discover hidden viewpoints (miradouros), and soak in the authentic Lisbon vibe. The area is a photographer's dream, with picturesque scenes around every corner. Be prepared for steep inclines and cobblestone paths, which are characteristic of this historic district.

Community advice often suggests getting lost in Alfama's alleys. It's the best way to stumble upon local gems, from tiny chapels to family-run restaurants. The steps serve as a perfect starting or ending point for such an exploration, connecting you to the soul of Lisbon.

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