Church of Santo António Lisbon
18th-century baroque church, believed birthplace of St. Anthony, famous for its flower wall and June festivities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festivities and outdoor cinema
Church of Santo António Lisbon
Best Time
Festivities and outdoor cinema
Highlights
Must-see attractions
18th-century baroque church, believed birthplace of St. Anthony, famous for its flower wall and June festivities.
"Capture the magic of Lisbon's patron saint and vibrant June festivities at this historic church."
💖 Find Love Legend
Legend says touching St. Anthony's feet or offering coins can help find love.
🌸 Iconic Flower Wall
Don't miss the stunning flower wall for a perfect photo op!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Anthony's Birthplace
Largo de Santo António da Sé
Visit the baroque church believed to be the birthplace of Lisbon's beloved saint, St. Anthony.
The Famous Flower Wall
Largo de Santo António da Sé
Capture stunning photos at the iconic, vibrant flower wall that adorns the church's vicinity.
Outdoor Cinema Nights
Church Courtyard (seasonal)
Experience magical summer evenings with outdoor movies, music, and local food vendors.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Festivities in June
Navigate Crowds & Valuables
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💖 Find Love Legend
Legend says touching St. Anthony's feet or offering coins can help find love.
🌸 Iconic Flower Wall
Don't miss the stunning flower wall for a perfect photo op!
🎬 Summer Cinema Magic
Enjoy outdoor movies with music and food in the church courtyard.
💰 Valuables Caution
Be extremely careful with belongings during June festivities.
Tips
from all over the internet
💖 Find Love Legend
Legend says touching St. Anthony's feet or offering coins can help find love.
🌸 Iconic Flower Wall
Don't miss the stunning flower wall for a perfect photo op!
🎬 Summer Cinema Magic
Enjoy outdoor movies with music and food in the church courtyard.
💰 Valuables Caution
Be extremely careful with belongings during June festivities.
🎶 Street Party Vibes
Immerse yourself in local celebrations in Alfama and Graça.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are charmed by the Church of Santo António's historical significance and its association with St. Anthony's legend of love. The vibrant flower wall and seasonal outdoor cinema events are frequently highlighted as delightful attractions. However, the area can become extremely crowded, especially during the June festivities, requiring vigilance with personal belongings.
"St. Anthony Church in Lisbon is a revered religious and historical site closely linked to the life of St. Anthony of Padua, making it a popular pilgrimage destination for visitors and locals alike.
This 18th-century baroque church is believed to mark the birthplace of St. Anthony, one of Portugal’s most beloved saints, and offers beautiful architecture, onsite services, and an atmosphere steeped in history just steps away from Lisbon Cathedral."
George Johnson
"An amazing church to visit—well organised. Entry is €5 per person. I was told there’s a 20% discount with a Lesbian Tourist Card, which you can get from the tourist information centre."
Khaled Amini
"The church stands on the site believed to be the birthplace of Santo António (Saint Anthony, born Fernando de Bulhões). A small chapel was first established here in the 15th century. During the reign of King Manuel I in the 16th century, the church was expanded, but much of it was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake—only the main altar remained. The current building was reconstructed in 1767 by Mateus Vicente de Oliveira in a mix of Baroque and Rococo styles. Beneath the church lies a crypt marking the saint’s birthplace, which preserves the remains of the earlier chapel. Every year on June 13th, the feast day of the saint, a festive parade begins right in front of the church."
Seokjin Ham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is easily accessible by public transport. Tram 28, buses 737, and the Santa Justa Lift are nearby options. Walking from Baixa or Alfama is also a pleasant option.
Street parking is very limited in this historic area. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi/ride-sharing service.
Yes, it's a scenic walk of about 15-20 minutes from Rossio Square through charming streets.
Due to massive crowds, public transport is best. Be prepared for street closures and detours.
Yes, buses like the 737 stop very close to Largo de Santo António da Sé.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free. However, special events like outdoor cinemas may require tickets.
The church typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to check local listings for exact times, especially during festivals.
Parades are often free to watch from Avenida da Liberdade if you arrive early. Street parties in neighborhoods like Alfama don't require tickets.
Yes, outdoor cinema events usually have an admission fee. Doors typically open around 7 PM.
Yes, you can visit the church, but be aware that the surrounding area will be extremely crowded and may have restricted access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
According to legend, touching St. Anthony's feet, making a promise, or successfully tossing 13 coins into the book he holds can help you find love or a partner.
Expect lively street parties with music, food stalls selling grilled sardines, and a festive atmosphere throughout historic neighborhoods.
The famous flower wall is a seasonal attraction, often appearing for the Santo António celebrations.
While traditional food is prevalent, some vendors may offer vegan options like 'Seitanas' (Bifanas with Seitan).
Alfama, Mouraria, Graça, and Bica are known for their major festivities and vibrant street parties. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic flower wall near the church is a must-capture spot. The baroque architecture of the church itself also offers great photo opportunities.
Capture the vibrant street decorations, lively crowds, food stalls, and the general festive atmosphere.
Yes, the crowds can be intense, especially in popular areas. Be patient and consider early mornings or late evenings for fewer people.
Generally, photography is allowed inside churches, but it's always respectful to check for any posted signs or ask church staff.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer people, making for better photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the Santo António festivities, while the street parties can be very crowded, families can find quieter spots in less central areas or enjoy the general festive atmosphere from a distance. Be mindful of the crowds and keep a close eye on children, especially during peak celebration times.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best shots, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid harsh midday light and large crowds. The outdoor cinema events also provide a unique backdrop for evening photography, capturing the ambiance of film screenings in a historic courtyard.
💖 Couples & Romantics
Visiting during the June festivities offers a chance to enjoy the lively street parties together, perhaps sharing some grilled sardines and a drink in the vibrant atmosphere of Alfama or Bica.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of St. Anthony
This tradition adds a unique, romantic dimension to visiting the church, drawing couples and hopeful singles alike. It's a charming aspect of local folklore that many travelers enjoy participating in, making their visit more interactive and memorable.
Experiencing the Santo António Festivities
Travelers can expect a lively atmosphere with the aroma of grilled sardines filling the air, alongside plenty of beer and music. While the main festival days are June 12th and 13th, smaller festivities often occur throughout the month, especially on weekends.
However, Redditors strongly advise caution regarding valuables during this time due to the immense crowds. It's recommended to carry minimal cash, spread across different pockets, and avoid bringing unnecessary cards or electronics.
Seasonal Delights: Outdoor Cinema
Events typically start with doors opening around 7 PM, followed by live music at 8 PM, and the movie screening at 9 PM. Local vendors are usually on hand, offering a selection of food and drinks to enjoy during the show.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit