Torre Vasco da Gama

The Vasco da Gama Tower rises beside the Tagus, in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações, as one of the most visible traces of the former Expo’98. At 145 metres, it was built as part of the world exposition and housed the European Union Pavilion on its lower floors. Designed by the architects Leonor Janeiro and Nick Jacobs, it began as an observation tower, with panoramic lifts, a viewpoint and a restaurant at the top. Its silhouette was conceived as a nautical evocation: the vertical body suggests a mast and the metal structure recalls a sail, in dialogue with the name of Vasco da Gama and with the maritime theme of Expo’98. In 2012, the tower gained new life with the opening of the MYRIAD by SANA hotel, in a project by Nuno Leónidas that was integrated into the existing structure. Today, the elevated view over the river and eastern Lisbon continues to define its urban presence.

Why it matters

The Vasco da Gama Tower, located in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações, is one of the city’s most impressive and modern architectural landmarks. It was inaugurated in 1998 during the World Exposition (Expo 98) and was constructed in honour of the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama, commemorating the 500th anniversary of his discovery of the sea route to India in 1498. Expo 98, which centred on the theme "The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future", catalysed the transformation of the area that is now Parque das Nações, converting an abandoned industrial site into a modern and vibrant space. Initially, the tower served as an observation deck and panoramic restaurant, offering unique views over the Tagus River and its surroundings. Standing 145 metres tall, the Vasco da Gama Tower is the tallest structure in Lisbon and one of the tallest in Portugal. Since 2012, the tower has been home to the luxury Myriad by SANA Hotels, but the observation deck remains open, allowing visitors to enjoy its panoramic views.

Architecture and history

The architecture of the Vasco da Gama Tower is inspired by the sail of a caravel, paying homage to Portugal’s spirit of maritime adventure and exploration. Designed by architects Nick Jacobs and Leonor Janeiro, the structure is a harmonious combination of steel and glass with a light and elegant design. The main tower, with its vertical sail-like structure, is supported by a cylindrical base that resembles the mast of a ship. The observation deck, located about 120 metres high, offers a stunning view over the Tagus River and the Vasco da Gama Bridge, one of the longest bridges in Europe. Access to the deck is provided by a panoramic lift, allowing visitors to take in the view as they ascend. The structure is surrounded by large glass windows, providing a 360-degree experience that highlights Lisbon’s modern architecture and the vastness of the river.

More context

A visit to the Vasco da Gama Tower Observation Deck offers a unique experience for anyone wanting to see Lisbon from an elevated, impressive perspective. At the observation deck, the view over the Tagus River is breathtaking, especially at sunset, when the golden light reflects on the water and illuminates the Vasco da Gama Bridge. The modern skyline of Parque das Nações is also visible, with its contemporary buildings and green spaces contrasting with the city’s historic areas. Another point of interest is the panoramic restaurant located at the top of the tower, where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the view. The proximity to the Lisbon Oceanarium, the Knowledge Pavilion, and the Vasco da Gama shopping centre makes this area a great option for a full day of sightseeing, combining culture, leisure, and magnificent views. Crossing the Vasco da Gama Bridge, visible from the tower, is also recommended for those wishing to explore the area further.