Garden of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation — Attraction in Lisbon

The most important modernist garden in Lisbon. It is a popular destination for many Lisboners, specially on weekends. There are several cafés with outdoor sitting, benches, an outdoor amphitheater and lawns to choose from; or several path choices if one chooses to just stroll.

It was designed by landscape architects António Viana Barreto and Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles in the 60s. It addresses space in a modernist way, (centered more on a non-narrative disposition of ambiences, working plastically with mass and void rather than on the presentation of "objects" (path, the ruin, the folly, the flowerbed, etc.) or of narratives (a classic mythology story, etc.). One can find different "experiences" and ambiences and vegetation was chosen to maximize year round color and "show".

As a modernist garden, it is a heavily engineered landscape, with major topographic works and the creation of an artificial lake. Around the 2000s a major renovation of the garden added an ecological layer to it, with the use of mixed species lawns and different types of cover to reduce watering needs; and the inclusion of several small water pools to boost biodiversity.

The garden is expanding southwards to include the grounds of the neighboring estate, donated to the Gulbenkian foundation (the grounds, not the palace). It will also receive a pedestrian bridge connection that will help link it to the newly built Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles garden, northwest.

The paths are mostly made of large concrete squares set on the landscape, 5cm high. Sometimes, a side ramp is provided, but not always, and there are stepping stones too spaced out accross water canals, so a full enjoyment of the garden is not possible for accessible challenged.

I highly recommend a visit, together with a cultural event or a visit to the collection / museum. Or just a towel and book to read on the lawn. Or just a stroll...

My visit to the Jardim da Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian in Lisbon was a peaceful and refreshing escape from the city's usual rhythm. Tucked behind the foundation's main buildings, this garden is a beautifully curated green space that combines modern landscape architecture with a natural, almost wild charm. The design encourages quiet reflection, with winding paths, shaded benches, and little wooden bridges that cross over calm ponds filled with fish and ducks. I loved how the garden seems to embrace you in silence, making it a perfect place to read, meditate, or simply enjoy nature. Entry is free, making it an accessible gem for anyone visiting the city. While there’s no formal café inside the garden itself, you can easily grab a coffee or snack at the foundation’s museum or temporary exhibit area just steps away. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the sunlight filters through the trees and casts golden reflections on the water. Whether you’re visiting the art collection or just passing by, this garden is a must for anyone who appreciates quiet beauty and...

I can spend half a day exploring and enjoying this beautiful garden and it’s museum. It has several grassy areas for lounging, benches, sculptures, ponds and streams, ducks, and plenty of shaded areas for hot days.

While there are many paths for those with limited mobility or families with strollers, the gems are not as accessible. We have the most fun without a stroller so that we can traverse the stone and earth walk ways and steps that wind around and down to the ponds. My boys love to tip toe on the giant, tangled roots of the trees.

There is a delightful cafe too where you can enjoy a light meal, snacks, drinks, and yummy ice cream.

They are doing some renovations right now to expand access around the park, which will be great because there are only a few ways in and out right now.

Pack a blanket, sun protection and snacks and you are going to have a lovely time.

Notes: this garden does not have a playground, but there’s plenty for little bodies to explore! uneven surfaces, wear good shoes dogs are not allowed to experience all the grounds, leave the...