Rossio Square Tours and Activities

Rossio Square showing street scenes, a square or plaza and heritage elements
Rossio Square
Rossio Square
Rossio Square
Rossio Square


See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.

Officially named Praça Dom Pedro IV, this centrally located square is much more commonly known simply as Rossio. Come here at any time of the day to find the square abuzz, as people gather to socialize at cafés around the square’s edge.

Stroll across the vast square and note the unusual wave-like mosaic pavement underfoot. The curving lines, which alternate between lighter and darker stone, create an impression of movement. Although the square was founded in the 13th century, the pavement was only added in the mid 19th century. After being installed here, this style of pavement grew in popularity, spreading across Portugal and eventually showing up overseas in former Portuguese colonies such as Brazil.

At the center of the square you’ll see the tall monument to Dom Pedro IV, a former Portuguese king and the first emperor of Brazil.

Note the two large fountains on either side of the monument. Erected in 1889, these two Baroque fountains are identical and feature sculptures depicting mythical figures. Consider coming back to the square at night to see the fountains lit up. Look to the north end of the square to see the neoclassical-style National Theatre of D. Maria II, Lisbon’s premier performance venue for the dramatic arts.

Pause for a coffee and some people-watching at one of the surrounding cafés, some of which have been here for a century or more. Their outdoor terraces are excellent spots from which to observe the action on the square, whether it be street performers entertaining tourists, businesspeople having their shoes shined, or friends embracing each other upon greeting.

Find Rossio Square in the Baixa neighborhood of Lisbon. To get here, ride the metro to Rossio Station. Being a public place, Rossio Square is open 24/7 and no admission fee is charged.

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Best Lodging Options Near Rossio Square

Hotel Mundial

Hotel Mundial

4 out of 5
Praça Martim Moniz, 2, Lisbon
Hotel Mundial
Rossio Plaza Hotel

Rossio Plaza Hotel

3 out of 5
Rua do Ouro, 266, Lisbon
Rossio Plaza Hotel
Locke de Santa Joana

Locke de Santa Joana

4 out of 5
18 Rua Camilo Castelo Branco, Lisbon
Locke de Santa Joana
Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge

Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge

4 out of 5
Rua da Madalena, 191-197, Lisbon, Lisbon
Esqina Cosmopolitan Lodge
Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection by IHG

Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection by IHG

4 out of 5
Rua Dom Antaoo de Almada, 4, Lisbon, Lisbon District
Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection by IHG
Hotel Santa Justa Lisboa

Hotel Santa Justa Lisboa

4 out of 5
Rua dos Correeiros, 204, Lisbon
Hotel Santa Justa Lisboa
Pensão Londres

Pensão Londres

Rua Dom Pedro V 53, Lisbon
Pensão Londres
Lisboa Carmo Hotel

Lisboa Carmo Hotel

4 out of 5
Rua Oliveira ao Carmo 1-3, Largo do Camo, Lisbon
Lisboa Carmo Hotel
Lisboa Pessoa Hotel

Lisboa Pessoa Hotel

4 out of 5
Rua da Oliveira ao Carmo, 8, Lisbon
Lisboa Pessoa Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Rossio Square

While visiting Rossio Square in Lisbon, be sure to explore the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in delicious pastéis de nata at a nearby café. You can also take advantage of various tour services available in the area, offering insights into the rich history and culture of Lisbon. Enjoy the lively surroundings and make the most of your experience in this iconic square.

Shopping

For shopping near Rossio Square, check out Avenida da Liberdade, only 966m away, offering a mix of family-friendly and city vibes. Mercado da Ribeira, also 966m away, features a lively market atmosphere. Avenida Almirante Reis is 1.6km away, perfect for more family and city vibes.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Estádio da Luz, a sports facility perfect for active visitors. Enjoy live performances at Coliseu dos Recreios, just a short stroll away. For relaxation, unwind in the serene surroundings of Floresta de Monsanto Park, an ideal spot for rejuvenation in nature.

Adventure

The Telecabine Lisbon Cable Car, located 8.0km from Rossio Square, offers thrilling aerial views of the city. For motorsport enthusiasts, Estoril Racetrack, 22.5km away, provides an adrenaline-packed experience. Closer to the square, Clube Nacional de Natação, 1.3km away, features exciting water sports for all ages.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Rossio Square is vibrant and culturally rich. Enjoy a captivating performance at the National Theatre of D. Maria II, only 0.1.6km away, or head to Trindade Theater, 322m away, for a charming family experience. Don’t miss the Sao Luis Municipal Theater, 644m away, for more entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Rossio Square

Rossio Square in Lisbon offers a vibrant mix of cultural and outdoor experiences, making it a must-visit for any traveller. You can explore the stunning piazzas, enjoy scenic lookouts, and immerse yourself in the rich history at various historic sites. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a taste of local culture, Rossio Square is the perfect starting point for your adventures in the city.

  • Marquis of Pombal Square: This impressive monument, located 1.6km from Rossio Square, is a tribute to the Marquis of Pombal, known for rebuilding Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake. The surrounding gardens and grand roundabout exude cultural significance, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
  • Castle of São Jorge: A mere 483m from Rossio Square, this historic castle offers breathtaking views of the city. Its romantic atmosphere, combined with rich history, provides a captivating experience as you explore the ancient walls and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
  • Santa Justa Elevator: Just 0.1.6km from Rossio Square, this iconic lift connects the lower streets with the higher Carmo Square. Its neo-Gothic design and panoramic views of Lisbon make it a must-visit cultural landmark.

Best time to go to Rossio Square

Visitor numbers around Rossio Square is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Rossio Square can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rossio Square falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Rossio Square falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.1°F (21.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.0°F (22.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
September70.3°F (21.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rossio Square

Visiting Rossio Square in Lisbon can be budget-friendly with several saving tips. Enjoy free entry to the square and nearby attractions like Marquis of Pombal Square and Lisbon Cathedral. Consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation prices, and book your hotel about one month in advance. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are pricier. Use Expedia to compare rates, explore eco-certified hotels, and take advantage of last-minute deals. Bundling your hotel with flights and activities can also lead to significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rossio Square are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Rossio Square about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rossio Square is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Rossio Square is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Rossio Square with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.