Every traveler would give everything to see the ancient hanging gardens of Babylon, which were considered to be one of the 7 wonders of the world. I could even imagine myself strolling through the trees and bushes, enjoying the fresh air and wonderful weather. Well, here’s a small surprise for those who share the dream, Estrela Gardens can have the same effect, except that they’re located in Lisbon.
Estrela Gardens are one of the most peaceful places in the city. The park came into being in the middle of 19th century.
There’s a special playground for children, which would keep the kids busy as their parents go through a second honeymoon phase inside the romantic gazebo. The park also includes sculptures, so this could also be taken as a spectacular open-air museum. Art and nature are joined in an incredible combination.
Speaking of open-air displays, there is an open-air auditorium, which hosts concerts from time to time. The main genre is jazz, but exceptions can be made.
If you’re lucky and the weather is nice, you can also spot some ducks in the lake. Thus, make sure to have a treat for them in your bag. There is also a coffee shop not too far away from the pond. Putting it in a more creative way, this park is a living proof of what our lives would be if we didn’t get into the whole industrialization process. We could be breathing fresh air right at this moment.
While the park is mainly suitable for families, there are also some super-attractive men and women walking their dogs. The final task is to catch the dog’s attention.
The park opens really early, at 7 am, and stays open all day till midnight. This means that you can plan your strolls both before or in the middle of your sightseeing routine or in the evening, when there are not too many attractions you can visit. Despite that I would definitely pair the gardens with other walking-sites like Alfama. You could have lunch in one of the local cafes, listen to a Fado, and then analyze the impressions in Estrela Gardens. The are is quite big, so you won’t have to worry about squeezing in.
If you like certain plants, just address the administration, because you may have the chance to buy a few of them. Also, keep your camera ready, some great shots are coming to your portfolio.
And finally, you don’t spend a lot of money but get an utmost pleasure of the trip. I have always insisted that parks in Europe, and particularly in Portugal, are very unique. They don’t simply beautify the city, they literally seduce you into a relaxing picnic. In this case, giving up to temptations can be a great idea. Grab a few Portuguese dishes and foods, get a blanket, and enjoy the nature in the middle of the capital city.
