Parque das Nações Lisbon is Lisbon’s modern riverfront district built on the legacy of EXPO’98, packed with contemporary architecture, gardens, museums, events, and a long promenade along the Tagus River. It stretches along a scenic ~5 km waterfront and is one of the easiest areas to visit thanks to great transport connections (especially Oriente station).
Essential info (address, official site, metro)
Area / “official” contact address (as listed by Visit Portugal):
Av. D. João II, 1900-014 Lisboa
Official website (area portal):
portaldasnacoes.pt
Tourist info point (Ask Me Lisboa – Parque das Nações):
Alameda dos Oceanos, 1990-231, Parque das Nações | Lisboa
Nearest metro stations (Red Line / Linha Vermelha)
- Oriente (Linha Vermelha) — the main hub, next to the intermodal Gare do Oriente
- Moscavide (Linha Vermelha) — good for the north side of the district
- Cabo Ruivo (Linha Vermelha) — useful for the east/south edge
Why visit Parque das Nações
If you’ve already explored the historic center (Baixa, Alfama, Chiado), Parque das Nações feels like a different city: wide walkways, modern buildings, waterfront views, and “everything in one place” attractions. Visit Portugal highlights its bold contemporary architecture, thematic gardens, exhibitions, shows/events, and the relaxed riverside setting.
It’s also extremely convenient: Visit Portugal notes it’s about five minutes from Lisbon International Airport.
Top things to do in Parque das Nações
1) Walk the waterfront promenade + gardens
The green spaces here are part of what makes the district great for an easy half-day: the Jardim do Parque das Nações is a series of landscaped areas where the “green of the plants complements the blue of the river,” with cafés and paths that work well for a slow stroll.
Best time: late afternoon into sunset for photos and cooler temperatures.
2) Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium)
This is the “anchor attraction” of the area, located right on the water at:
Esplanada D. Carlos I – 1990-005 Lisboa
Official website: oceanario.pt
Tip: Do Oceanarium earlier in the day, then relax outside on the riverfront after.
3) Telecabine Lisboa (cable car over the riverfront)
For the best “wow” view with minimal effort, take the Telecabine Lisboa above the waterfront.
Official address (North Station): Passeio das Tágides, 1990-280 Lisboa
Official website: telecabinelisboa.pt
Official prices (examples): Adults €7.50 one-way / €9.50 round trip
(Always double-check the current schedule because it’s seasonal. )
4) Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Pavilion of Knowledge)
A hands-on science museum that’s excellent if you’re traveling with kids (or if you just want something interactive).
Location (Visit Lisboa): Largo José Mariano Gago, Parque das Nações, 1990-223, Lisboa
Official website: pavconhecimento.pt
Typical hours shown by Visit Lisboa: open Tue–Sun with Monday closed (hours vary by day)
5) MEO Arena (events, concerts, big shows)
If your Lisbon dates match a concert or sports event, this is the major venue in the district.
Address (official): Rossio dos Olivais, Lote 2.13.01A, 1990-231 Lisboa
Official website: arena.meo.pt
How to get to Parque das Nações (the easiest ways)
Metro (best option)
Oriente station is the most practical gateway. Metro Lisboa confirms Oriente belongs to the Red Line (Linha Vermelha) and gives the station location near the intermodal hub.
Alternative Red Line stations:
- Moscavide (good for the north side)
- Cabo Ruivo (good for the east side)
From the airport
Because the area is so close to Lisbon Airport (per Visit Portugal), it’s one of the simplest first/last-day stops if you have limited time.
A simple half-day itinerary (no rushing)
Option A — “Classic highlights” (4–5 hours)
- Metro to Oriente
- Walk toward the riverfront gardens (coffee stop along the way)
- Oceanarium
- Telecabine for views + photos
- Sunset walk back along the promenade
Option B — With kids / interactive focus
- Pavilhão do Conhecimento
- Lunch
- Oceanarium
- Telecabine
Option C — Night plan
Check what’s on at MEO Arena and build the evening around a show.
Practical tips (make it smoother)
- Pick the right station: Oriente is best if you want “everything,” but Moscavide/Cabo Ruivo can save walking depending on your plan.
- Go when the weather is nice: This district shines when you’re outside by the water.
- Telecabine is seasonal: Always confirm schedule before you go.
- Use the tourist office if needed: Ask Me Lisboa in Parque das Nações is a handy help point for maps, transport, and info.
FAQ: Parque das Nações Lisbon
Is Parque das Nações worth it if I’ve already seen the old town?
Yes—because it’s a different vibe: modern architecture, wide riverfront walking areas, and big attractions (Oceanarium, events, cable car).
What’s the best metro stop for Parque das Nações?
Oriente (Red Line) is the easiest all-around base.
What’s the official website for Parque das Nações?
Visit Portugal lists portaldasnacoes.pt as the area portal website.
Conclusion
Parque das Nações is one of the easiest “big payoff” areas in Lisbon: you get a scenic riverfront, modern landmarks, and major attractions all in a walkable zone with excellent metro access. If you only have a half-day, prioritize Oriente → waterfront gardens → Oceanarium → Telecabine, then finish with a relaxed riverside stroll.
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