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I ride Ascensor da Gloria whenever I want to glide from Restauradores to Bairro Alto without breaking a sweat. Over the years I have learned when to skip the line, where to stand for photos, and how to make the short trip part of a bigger, smarter route. Use this guide to decide if it earns a spot in your day.
Turn the ride into a story by following StoryHunt’s immersive Lisbon audiowalk.
What is the story behind Ascensor da Gloria?
The funicular opened in 1885, part of Lisbon’s late 19th century push to tame its hills. It first ran on water counterweights, then steam, and finally electricity, which still powers today’s two counterbalanced cars. The line connects Praça dos Restauradores to the lookout of São Pedro de Alcântara, so you step off right by one of my favorite city views.
Start the StoryHunt audiowalk at Restauradores and let it guide you uphill.
How much is the elevator de Gloria?
In 2025 the on board lift ticket costs a set price that covers up to two rides on the same day, so you can go up and later come back down. The 24 hour Carris and Metro ticket is often better value if you plan to use trams or buses. The Lisboa Card also includes the funicular and city transport.
Quick facts:
- On board lift ticket: €4.20 for up to two rides
- 24 hour public transport ticket: €7.00
- Lisboa Card: includes funiculars and Santa Justa
How long is the Gloria funicular?
The track is about 265 meters, with an average gradient a little under one in six, so the ride itself is just a few minutes. I usually ride up, then walk down along the tracks to enjoy the street art and angle photos as cars pass. If the car is busy, wait for the next one, since frequency is high.
Which is the best funicular in Lisbon?
It depends on your goal. GlĂłria is the most practical for Bairro Alto and the viewpoint. Bica is the most photogenic on a postcard steep street, so it draws crowds. Lavra is the oldest and quietest, useful for Torel garden days. For first timers, I suggest GlĂłria for convenience, then Bica for photos if time allows.
Follow StoryHunt’s route to link Glória with nearby highlights without detours.
Where does Ascensor da Gloria start and end?
The lower terminal sits beside Praça dos Restauradores, just off Avenida da Liberdade, near metro and rail links. The upper stop is at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara in Bairro Alto. That makes it a perfect hop to the garden terrace, then onward to Igreja de São Roque or down toward Chiado on foot.
What are the opening hours and how often does it run?
Service normally starts around 07:15 and ends close to midnight, with short intervals between cars. Friday and Saturday can run slightly later, and occasional maintenance closures happen. I time my rides at off peak periods, early morning or late afternoon, to avoid queues and have space at the windows for photos.
Tips that work:
- Ride up, then stroll down for photos and street art
- Keep your ticket for the return the same day
- Early or late rides are calmer than midday
Is it worth seeing Ascensor da Gloria?
Yes, with a clear head. The ride is short and the fare can feel high if you only do this one lift. The payoff is practical: you avoid a steep climb, arrive beside a top viewpoint, and fold it into a classic downtown to Bairro Alto loop. If budgets or lines are tight, walk up and spend more time on the terrace instead.
If you do ride, pair it with the StoryHunt audiowalk for a richer experience.
What else is nearby Ascensor da Gloria?
You are minutes from several stops on the same downtown route, so build a loop that balances views and history.
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, garden terrace with castle views
- Convento do Carmo, roofless Gothic nave and archaeology museum
- Igreja de SĂŁo Roque, rich chapels and sacred art
- Praça do Rossio, theaters, waves of calçada and lively cafes
Explore the set with StoryHunt’s Lisbon audiowalk, then continue to Praça do Comércio and the Arco da Rua Augusta.
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