Jardim da Estrela

The Jardim da Estrela was laid out in 1842 opposite the basilica in the English landscape manner: winding paths, lawns, a duck pond with a small island, and a planting of exotic species brought in when Lisbon was collecting them - dragon trees, magnolias, cedars, a large Ficus, palms. Its centrepiece is a wrought-iron bandstand made in Porto in the 1880s and moved here, still used for concerts. There is a well-known kiosk café under the trees, a children's playground and a small library, and the park functions as the neighbourhood's living room rather than as a tourist site: dog walkers, prams, chess, people reading. The English Cemetery across the road contains the grave of Henry Fielding, who died in Lisbon in 1754. Tram 28 passes the gate, which is the only reason most visitors find it.

What you actually see

• The bandstand - an 1880s wrought-iron structure from Porto, still used.
• The tree collection - dragon trees, magnolias, cedars and palms from the collecting era.
• The pond - ducks and an island at the centre of the winding paths.
• The neighbourhood use - a working local park rather than a visitor attraction.

When to go

Year-round; spring for the magnolias. One hour. Weekend mornings are busiest with families.

Honest expectations

A local park, not a sight - people expecting a formal garden will find it modest. The kiosk cafés are busy and slow at weekends. Tram 28 outside is crowded and a pickpocketing hotspot. Gates close at dusk.

Nearby

The Estrela basilica faces the park; the English Cemetery is across the road.