4.3.12 Torre Vasco da Gama

THIS IS A PAY VIEWPOINT

Rua Cais das Naus 2

Location HERE.

Open from 1000 hours daily; may close between 1730 and 1800 hours; closes at midnight except Thursday to Saturday, when it’s open to 0200 hours.


Also known as Babylon 360 (no idea why), this tower rises 145 metres above the Parque das Nações, which makes it almost twice the height of Amoreiras 360, although the latter is located on one of Lisbon’s eight hills.

The views from the top, then, are going to be vastly better than riding the cable car, which rises not so far above the shore and has its punters cooped up in what is effectively an airborne Smart Car.

You pays your money and makes your choice.


Nowadays, there is a hotel, the Myriad by Sana Hotels, between the tower and the riverside. That’s highly relevant when the ride up in the lift, or elevator for you people Stateside, happens.

How much? The trip to the top and back down again will set you back €10, which is not so much when the weather is clear and there is the view to be enjoyed. Get tickets from the reception, and then off you go to the lift.

The hotel, and the tower’s lattice steelwork, give a sense of enclosure. HOWEVER the tower is higher than the hotel, and by some distance. So the view clears as the cabin clears the top of the hotel.


This is the point at which those who are not so good with heights may begin to feel uneasy, something to consider before buying the tickets.

The lift is attached to the tower - so at one side only. A bit like those Hyatt lifts of days gone by. The clear view out over the river is accompanied by the lift slowing down, which may cause yet more unease. Then the cabin arrives at the top, and is once again enclosed.

There is enough space at the top of the tower for some comfy seating, chairs for those using the bar, and the bar serving them. Apparently this is not the cheapest bar in Parque das Nações, but hey, that view.


In the evening, it’s a destination for those who want to enjoy cocktails as the sun goes down, and then see the city with all its lights illuminating the darkness. A time for couples, rather than families or solo travellers.

Please note that a dress code, and a minimum spend policy, are likely to be enforced for those making evening visits.

Buses, Metro (Linha Vermelha) and train services at Gare do Oriente - it’s a short walk from there. Or buses 26B and 708 to Cais Olival, if you want the very nearest stop.

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