In Portugal, this is the longest funicular in the country (it stops at the foot of an absolutely magnificent monument overlooking the ocean)

In northern Portugal, there is a funicular connecting the city of Viana do Castelo to a splendid monument inspired by the Sacré-Coeur in Paris. A most welcome form of transport which saves visitors from having to climb the many steps to reach the top.

For over a century, the Santa Luzia funicular has been taking locals and travellers up to one of the most impressive monuments in northern Portugal. Connecting the railway station to the top of the hill, it saves everyone a steep climb and makes for a gorgeous vantage point over the city of Viana do Castelo. It even holds a national record: being 650 metres in length and 160 metres of total elevation, that makes it the longest funicular in Portugal.

The longest funicular in Portugal

Inaugurated on 2 July 1923, the Elevador de Santa Luzia has become an iconic sight in the city of Viana do Castelo. Its 650-metre route, the longest in Portugal, climbs an impressive 160 metres in just seven minutes.

Open all year round, the funicular operates from 8 am to 8 pm during summer and until 6 pm during winter. A one-way ticket costs 2 euros and a return ticket 3 euros. This is a very convenient option in summer, when the heat turns the climb on foot into a 2 kilometre long challenge. However, on the way back, you can always descend via the staircase lined with pine and eucalyptus trees.

At the Basilica of Santa Luzia

At the top is the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, also known as the Templo de Santa Luzia. Visible from miles away, it was inspired by the Sacré-Coeur Basilica in Paris. Despite its Romanesque and Byzantine styles, the monument is fairly recent: it was designed by architect Miguel Ventura Terra in 1904 and completed by his student Miguel Nogueira in 1959. Its monumental rose windows are some of the largest in Europe.

The other highlight of the site is undoubtedly the breathtaking panorama. Overlooking the city, the hill offers an impressive view of the Lima River and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a spot that should not be missed during your stay in Viana do Castelo.