Possibly the best and fastest way to see Lisbon, this 45m-high wrought-iron elevator is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks. Officially opened in 1901, it was designed and built by Eiffel disciple Raul Mesnier de Ponsard and has become one of Lisbon’s main tourist destinations.

It was originally intended to link the Rua de Aurea with the Largo do Carmo, but the bridging viaduct was closed due to structural problems. The lift is now a tourist attraction with a café atop the metal platform. The 360° panorama is an ideal way to find your bearings in the city. Bus and tram tickets are valid for a ride, although at peak times queues for the lift can be long.