In the heart of Lisbon’s Estrela neighborhood lies one of the city’s most beloved green spaces: Jardim da Estrela. With its wrought-iron gates, winding paths, and shady old trees, this park feels like a peaceful secret— even though it’s right across from the grand Basilica da Estrela and on the famous 28 tram route. For me and my dog Bella, this isn’t just a park — it’s a little slice of home, a daily ritual, and one of our favorite places in the city.
A brief history
Jardim da Estrela was first opened to the public in 1852, designed in the romantic style of 19th-century English gardens. With its exotic plants, ornamental fountains, duck pond, and eclectic sculptures, it’s as much a botanical delight as it is a historical gem. The park was originally meant to provide a public green space for Lisbon’s citizens, modeled after similar gardens in London and Paris — and it’s stayed true to that mission ever since.
Dog-Friendly Bliss
Let’s be honest: not all public parks are equally welcoming to our four-legged friends. But Jardim da Estrela is a dog lover’s dream. The wide walking paths are ideal for leisurely strolls or energetic games of fetch, and you’ll find plenty of locals walking their dogs at all hours of the day. On sunny mornings, Bella and I often stop to chat with other dog owners, many of whom we’ve seen week after week. There’s a real sense of community here — for both humans and pups.
You’ll find water bowls scattered near the kiosks, and while there’s no fenced dog park section, the space is open and relaxed enough that dogs on leashes (or well-trained off-leash) can enjoy themselves without stress. If your dog loves people and picnics, they’ll be in heaven here.
Coffee, Pastries, and Alfresco Sips
One of my favorite things about Jardim da Estrela is how it caters to every kind of day — lazy or productive, social or solo. Scattered throughout the park are several charming kiosks, each offering a slightly different vibe and menu. Some mornings, I’ll find a sunny bench while Bella sniffs around.
And yes, this park does it all — even wine and beer. Whether you want a refreshing imperial (draft beer) or a crisp glass of vinho verde, the kiosks deliver. It’s not uncommon to see groups of friends meeting for drinks and snacks under the shade of jacaranda trees, surrounded by the sounds of birds and the occasional street musician.
A Local Favorite for Picnics
Picnicking is almost a sport in Jardim da Estrela. On weekends, especially in spring and summer, you’ll see families, couples, and groups of friends laying out colorful blankets, unpacking Tupperware filled with homemade dishes or baguettes, cheeses, and fresh fruit from local markets. Some bring bottles of wine or a six-pack of craft beer and settle in for the afternoon with books, speakers, and laughter.
The best part? Everyone shares the space respectfully. Despite how popular it can get, the park rarely feels overcrowded. There’s always a quiet corner to be found, whether near the duck pond, beside a sculpture, or under the thick canopy of trees that keep the park cool even on hot days.
Movement and Music in the Park
Jardim da Estrela isn’t just for lounging. It’s also a hub for community wellness and culture. On many mornings, especially weekends, you’ll spot yoga classes happening in the grass — groups of locals and expats stretching under the trees, mats laid out in semi-circles. Some classes are free, others are donation-based, and they’re a beautiful example of the park’s role in bringing people together.
Throughout the year, the park hosts live music performances, often from local jazz bands, folk musicians, or classical trios. Sometimes it’s part of a city-sponsored event, other times it’s just an impromptu set by talented buskers. I’ve stumbled across magical twilight performances while walking Bella — moments that feel straight out of a movie.
A Space for All Ages
This park isn’t just popular with dog walkers and yogis. It’s also incredibly family-friendly. There are two playground areas with swings, slides, and climbing structures that keep kids entertained for hours. You’ll see parents chatting on benches while their children play, and grandparents reading newspapers nearby.
There’s also a charming little library kiosk where you can borrow or swap books — a quiet reminder of the park’s role as a cultural and intellectual retreat, not just a pretty green space.
Location & Getting There
Jardim da Estrela is located in the Estrela neighborhood, directly across from the stunning Basílica da Estrela. You can reach it easily by taking tram 28 (a classic Lisbon experience in itself), or by bus or on foot if you’re staying nearby. The park is open year-round, free to enter, and incredibly safe.
Final Thoughts
There are bigger parks in Lisbon. There are flashier ones too. But none have the charm, character, and community feel of Jardim da Estrela. It’s not just the trees, or the coffee, or the music — it’s how the space invites you to slow down, connect, and enjoy life in its simplest and most beautiful forms.
Whether you’re traveling solo, picnicking with friends, entertaining kids, or — like me — exploring Lisbon with your dog, Jardim da Estrela is a must-visit. It’s more than just a park. It’s a reminder of what makes Lisbon so magical: the way it blends old-world elegance with everyday joy.
So next time you’re in town, grab a leash, a latte, and a little time — and come meet me and Bella in the park.
