Belém is a historic neighborhood nestled on the banks of the Tagus River and offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich maritime history and cultural heritage. This district, located just a short distance from Lisbon's city center, is packed with stunning historical sites and beautiful views.
If you're planning a trip to Lisbon, then consider visiting Belem. A half-day trip is enough to explore the main attractions and indulge in some of the best pastries in the city.
Top Attractions in Belém
Jerónimos Monastery
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jerónimos Monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Its ornate facade makes it a must-see. The monastery was built over several decades in the 16th century and is considered one of the most important examples of Portuguese Gothic architecture.
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| Jerónimos Monastery |
Visitors can explore the church, the cloisters, the chapter house, and the library. The monastery's Manueline style is characterized by its ornate details, including maritime motifs and intricate carvings. The tomb of Vasco da Gama, one of Portugal's most famous explorers, is a highlight of the monastery.
General admission tickets cost €12. Tickers for students and senior citizens cost €6, while children under 12 can enter for free. I would recommend purchasing them in advance as queues can get quite long.
Belém Tower
This fortified tower stands proudly on the Tagus River. Built in the 16th century, the Belém Tower was originally a fortress to defend Lisbon from invaders. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower's impressive architecture and strategic location make it a symbol of Portugal's maritime power. The tower's Manueline style is evident in its intricate carvings and maritime motifs. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for stunning views of the river and the city.
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| Belém Tower |
Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and river and explore its historic chambers, which once housed prisoners and soldiers. Tickets for the Belem Tower cost €6 for adults and €3 for students and senior citizens. Alternatively, you can get a combination ticket that gives you entry to both the Belém Tower and Jeronimos Monastery for only €12.
Monument to the Discoveries
Commemorating the Age of Discovery, this monument offers stunning views of the river and is a popular spot for photos. Known in Portuguese as Padrão dos Descobrimentos, it was built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator's death.
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| Padrão dos Descobrimentos |
It is a striking structure that symbolizes Portugal's maritime history. The monument features a large carrack, a type of ship used by Portuguese explorers.
Pastéis de Belém
A trip to Lisbon wouldn't be complete without trying the world-famous Portuguese custard tarts or pastéis de nata, and there's no better way to do it than at the original Pastéis de Belém bakery. This bakery has been making these delicious treats for centuries and is a must-try for anyone visiting Lisbon. The bakery is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, and visitors can watch the pastry chefs at work through large glass windows.
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| pastéis de nata |
How to Get to Belém
Getting to Belém is relatively easy. You can take the Tram 15 directly from the city center, which offers a scenic ride along the river. Alternatively, you can opt for a bus or train to reach Belém Station. You can also take a taxi or book a ride thru Uber, but, of course, this is the priciest option.
For this half-day trip, I recommend going to Belém Tower first, which is the farthest from Lisbon's city center, and working your way back. From the tower, the other attractions are just within a 20-minute walk, which makes navigation very easy.
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| Belém Tower |
This was such a nice and easy half-day trip away from the city center, and I would highly recommend it. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a relaxing day out in Lisbon, Belém is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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