Praça do Comércio is Lisbon's grand riverfront square, roughly 170m by 170m, where the Baixa district opens onto the Tagus estuary; it is still widely known by its older name, Terreiro do Paço (Palace Square). It was rebuilt under the Marquis of Pombal after the 1755 earthquake destroyed the Ribeira Royal Palace that once stood here, and is framed on three sides by uniform, ochre Pombaline buildings. At its center stands the bronze equestrian statue of King José I, while the triumphal Arco da Rua Augusta at the north end leads into downtown.
The central bronze equestrian statue of King José I - Lisbon's first monument dedicated to a king, sculpted by Machado de Castro
The triumphal Arco da Rua Augusta at the north side - take the lift to the terrace for 360-degree views over the square, the Tagus, Baixa and the cathedral
The riverside steps (Cais das Colunas) opening onto the Tagus - a favorite spot for sunrise, sunset and photos
Cafés and the ViniPortugal wine-tasting room tucked under the ochre Pombaline arcades
A natural starting point for a downtown stroll up the lively pedestrian street Rua Augusta
Good to know
CautionThe square and adjoining Rua Augusta see frequent 'friendship bracelet' pushers (who tie one on, then demand €5-20) and fake petition scams (a clipboard hides your bag while a partner reaches in). Do not make eye contact or stop; keep walking past anyone who approaches.
SafetyOpen plazas, the Terreiro do Paço metro station and Tram 28 are known pickpocket hotspots. Carry your bag in front and never keep your wallet or phone in a back pocket.
CautionStreet ATMs around the square and nearby Rossio have been found with card skimmers, and the shell/three-card-monte games run on the pavement are always rigged. Withdraw cash from ATMs inside banks instead.
RulesThe square itself is open 24/7 and free, but the arch terrace and the ViniPortugal tasting room charge admission and keep set hours (with weekly closing days). Check current times before you go.
SeasonThe square is wide open with almost no shade, so midday sun in high summer is intense. Bring a hat, water and sun protection; light is best for photos at dawn and dusk.
Practical info
The square connects directly to Terreiro do Paço metro station (blue line), which runs roughly 06:30 to 01:00. It is also an easy walk down Rua Augusta from Rossio. The square is open year-round and free. Access to the arch terrace is reported at around €3.50 (free with the Lisboa Card), but fares and hours should be confirmed for the latest information.
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