What to do in Belém, Lisbon: everything you need to know
Belém is one of the most historic and charming neighbourhoods in Lisbon, known for its significance during the Age of Discoveries. From the Belém Tower to the Jerónimos Monastery, and including the CCB (Belém Cultural Centre), there are many attractions for you to see. This is what to do in Belém, Lisbon, including free things to do and what to eat.
- Is Belém Lisbon worth visiting?
- Things to do in Belém
- Belém Tower: opening hours and prices
- Jerónimos Monastery
- Monument to the Discoveries
- MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
- Free museums and monuments on Sundays and holidays
- Gardens in Belém you must visit
- Free things to do in Belém
- The famous "Pastéis de Belém"
- Where to eat in Belém, Lisbon
- How to get to Belém from Lisbon
- Living in Lisbon
Is Belém Lisbon worth visiting?
Belém is definitely worth visiting when you're in Lisbon. This charming district is brimming with historical and cultural significance, offering visitors a delightful blend of architectural wonders, scenic views, and culinary delights.
From iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery to indulging in delicious pastries at Pastéis de Belém, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere and riverside setting make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of central Lisbon.
Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply want to explore a beautiful neighbourhood, Belém won't disappoint. Let's find out more.
Things to do in Belém
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Berthold Werner, CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia commons
Belém is a place where the past and present unite. There are many historic buildings in this neighbourhood that will impress you, but that’s not all. Belém also offers a great variety of museums and sights that you should visit.
- Situated on the riverbank, the Belém Tower is one of the icons of Lisbon’s identity.
- The Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Given that it is a very well-known location, it almost always has queues.
- Another place not to be missed is the Monument to the Discoveries. Climb to the top and enjoy the panoramic view over the River Tagus.
- The Belém Cultural Centre, known as CCB, is one of the main cultural hubs in the capital. Concerts, exhibitions, and workshops are some of the activities you can enjoy.
- The Berardo Collection Museum is another must-visit spot in the area.
- Located in the Jerónimos Monastery, the Maritime Museum is also worth a visit.
- If you're looking for something ,more modern, the MAAT is another top tourist spot that you should visit in the Belém area.
Belém Tower: opening hours and prices
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Freepik
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Belém Tower is one of the main highlights during your visit to Lisbon. If you want to avoid a long wait, you can buy your tickets in advance here.
Belém Tower tickets cost €9.25 and you can visit it from Tuesday to Sunday, as it is closed on Mondays. The opening hours of the Belém Tower vary depending on the months of the year.
- From October to April: between 10:00 and 17:30
- From May to September: between 10:00 and 18:30
Jerónimos Monastery
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Unsplash
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jerónimos Monastery is one of the main highlights of Belém. Here lie the remains of King Manuel I and Vasco da Gama.
Its opening hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:30. Tickets cost €10 for adults, and there are discounts available for students and seniors. You can buy your tickets here.
Monument to the Discoveries
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Alvesgaspar, CC BY-SA 3.0 Wikimedia commons
The Monument to the Discoveries celebrates Portuguese maritime adventures and offers an impressive panoramic view of the Tagus estuary. Visiting this monument is a great opportunity to learn more about the Age of Portuguese Discoveries.
It is open to the public every day from 10:00 to 19:00, with tickets starting at €5 per adult. To avoid queues, you can buy your ticket here.
MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Nan Palmero from San Antonio, TX, USA, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia commons
Located by the Tagus River, the MAAT is a modern museum that combines contemporary art, architecture, and technology into an integrated cultural experience.
It is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 11:00 to 19:00. Tickets cost 9 euros for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and groups. Purchase your ticket in advance here.
Free museums and monuments on Sundays and holidays
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Vitor Oliveira from Torres Vedras, PORTUGAL, CC BY-SA 2.0 Wikimedia commons
You can plan your trip without having to spend a lot of money. In Portugal, there are many museums and monuments that are free on Sundays and holidays if you are a residents in Portugal. Here are some of them:
- Jerónimos Monastery
- Belém Tower
- National Coach Museum
- Ajuda National Palace
Gardens in Belém you must visit
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Suicasmo, CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia commons
Belém has a significant presence of green spaces around it. The gardens and parks are the perfect setting for moments of relaxation.
- The Praça do Império Garden is one of the largest green areas in the city. Here you will find a space where events frequently take place.
- Don't miss the opportunity to also visit the Tropical Botanical Garden.
- Take the chance to discover the Ajuda Botanical Garden as well. This is the oldest in Portugal and one of the first in Europe.
You can purchase your ticket in advance for any of these spaces through the official websites.
Free things to do in Belém
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Ravi Sarma, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia commons
Located by the banks of the Tagus River, the Belém area offers many free things to do for all the family.
- After enjoying a "pastel de Belém" (see below), nothing beats a stroll through the beautiful Jardim do Império.
- Breathe in the riverside air with a walk to the Monument to the Discoveries and also see the famous Rose Compass.
- You can take a nice walk or bike ride along the Tagus riverbank.
- Visit the Doca de Santo Amaro. There are plenty of restaurants, but the visit is free.
To see more of the area, we also recommend looking up a Belém walking tour, some of which are free, while others have a small fee.
The famous "Pastéis de Belém"
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Freepik
A visit to Belém is not complete without tasting the famous "Pastéis de Belém", also known as one of the best things to do in Lisbon. The recipe for these delicious custard tarts, kept secret since the 19th century, gives each pastry a unique flavour that wins over everyone who tries them.
The original bakery, located at Rua de Belém No. 84 to 92, is the ideal place to delight in these typical sweets. Prices are affordable but vary depending on the season and tourist demand. Take note that the bakery always has queues, whether for dining in or take away, but you can't miss the opportunity to indulge and try this local delicacy.
Where to eat in Belém, Lisbon
Belém offers a delightful culinary experience blending tradition with innovation.
- Start your day with a pastel de nata, Portugal's iconic custard tart, at the historic Pastéis de Belém bakery mentioned above, where the recipe has been cherished for over a century.
- For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood dishes at one of the riverside restaurants, savouring grilled sardines or bacalhau (salted cod) while admiring views of the Tagus River.
- As evening falls, explore the vibrant food scene along Rua de Belém, where modern eateries offer creative twists on Portuguese classics, showcasing the country's rich flavours in innovative ways.
From quaint cafes to upscale dining establishments, Belém invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the best of Lisbon's culinary traditions.
How to get to Belém from Lisbon
Tudo que podes ver em Belém: um guia completo
Pixabay
Located about 5 km from the centre of Lisbon, Belém is easily accessible.
- The easiest way to get there is by tram. Take tram number 15, which departs from Praça da Figueira.
- You can also go by bus. Lines 714 or 728 also serve the area.
- Train travel is also an option. On the line heading to Cascais, you can enjoy views of the Tagus River.
- If you prefer to drive to Belém, you can also do so. Access is straightforward.
Living in Lisbon
Lisbon is made up of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own personality. Belém stands out as a quiet area full of historical and cultural landmarks. Living in Lisbon allows you to enjoy the banks of the Tagus estuary and its green spaces on a daily basis.