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During the Age of Discovery, when Portugal controlled the Spice Trade and the Indian Ocean, many of the top Belem, Portugal attractions were built. These historic sights today rank as some of the Best Things To Do in Belem.
Belem, Portugal is located just four miles from the Lisbon city center, but feels a world away. The serene riverside town is packed with charm and a boat load of history, pun intended!
Things To Do in Belem, Portugal
Our recommendations of what to do in Belem, Lisbon include our favorite spots and a few local suggestions. We have also added a map of sights at the end of the article so you can easily navigate to the top Belem attractions.
How To Get to Belem from Lisbon
Before we dive into Belem sightseeing, let’s chat about how to get there from Lisbon. Tourists who visit Belem have a few options, including train, tram, boat, Uber or on foot. Our preferred way to get to Belem is Uber, because they will drop you off steps from our first recommended sight: Torre de Belem.
Lisbon Tram 15
Alternatively, from Praco do Comercio, hop on a westbound Tram 15E and travel to Mosteiro Jerónimos. The ride takes about 30 minutes. Tickets for the Lisbon Tram can be purchased from the driver with cash or paid with a Navegante Card for a discounted fare. Find the most current information for Lisbon Transport fares, tickets and cards on the official Carris Website.
10 Super Things To Do in Belem
Now that you know a bit about Belem, Portugal and how to get there, lets jump into our list of the Best Belem Things To Do!
Save, Pin or Bookmark our What To See in Belem Guide to plan your Vacation to Portugal!
#1 Belem Tower Lisbon
The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Torre de Belem, is one of the most iconic symbols of Portugal. Situated along the shoreline in the Tagus River, the stone fortress was built in the 16th century to provide protection to the city of Lisbon.
The building is comprised of a large bastion and 4-story tower. Designed in the Manueline style (also called Portuguese late Gothic), the tower is one of the best – and last – examples of the extravagant architecture. In addition to its use as a defensive stronghold, the dungeon was used as a prison.
Visitors can go inside the Belem Tower (€8) to learn more about the history – and to take in the views from the top. Just watch your head when walking up the narrow stairs!. We recommend making Torre de Belem your first stop on your Lisbon Day Trip, as the line tends gets longer throughout the day.
Top Tip: The views of the tower are actually more impressive than from the tower. For the best photo, follow the shoreline west. Here you can capture both the Belem Tower, Christo Rei Statue and Pont 25 de Abril bridge in the distance.
#2 Monument to the Overseas Combatants
This impressive war memorial is dedicated to members of the armed forces who lost their lives during The Portuguese Colonial War (The Overseas War) from 1961 to 1974. An eternal flame burns solemnly at the center, resting below two massive pillars and a Portuguese flag.
#3 Monument to the Discoveries
The 180-foot-tall Padrao dos Descobrimentos, proudly stands on the bank of the Tagus River in Belem. The monument, which resembles the bow of a ship and features key figures from the Age of Exploration, marks the site where many expeditions began their journey to discover the new world.
The Monument to the Discoveries was built in 1960 – commemorating the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator. The permanent structure is based on a temporary artwork that was displayed at the 1940 Portuguese World Exhibition.
Inside the monument there is a small museum and the entry point to the rooftop terrace. From the top, guests have 360-degree views of the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Belem Palace, April 25 Bridge and Tagus River. Tickets for the museum, roof access and a short film are €10.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the beautiful tilework in the plaza in front of the monument. At the center is a large Compass Rose, made of red and black stones, as well as other stonework that includes nautical themes and sea routes.
#4 Jardim da Praça do Império
Beautifully laid out, the manicured, symmetrical space of the ‘Empire Square Garden’ is a sight to behold. The massive, misty fountain puts on a show and enhances your first view of the next sight on our list perfectly!
#5 Jeronimos Monastery
The magnificent Jeronimos Monastery was built in the 1500s, replacing a dilapidated church where explorers, such as Vasco da Gama, would pray before their expeditions. The purpose of the Belem Monastery was to house monks of the Order of Saint Jerome. Here they would pray for the King of Portugal, the captain and the sailors.
Taxes imposed on new imports were used to fund the project and provided the means to create such a lavish building. Another fine example of Manueline architecture, the monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Tickets are required to enter the monastery and cost €12. Inquire about a combination ticket that includes the Jeronimos Monastery and Archaeological Museum, if you’re interested in visiting both.
Top Tip: Exploring the attached Church of Santa Maria (marked by the elaborate south portal entrance) is free! Inside visitors will find the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
#6 Portuguese Custard Tarts 
Creamy Portuguese egg tarts are a culinary masterpiece in Lisbon – and the best tarts are made at Pasteis de Belem. The historic pastry shop uses a secret, 200-year-old recipe handed down by the monks from the Jeronimos Monastery. They even claim to have created the first Portuguese egg tart.
Since 1837, Pasteis de Belem has been crafting the sweet confections for their eager patrons. Today tourists wait in long lines at the original shop for the cheap and delicious tarts.
#7 Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
Just up a hill from Belem, naturally, is the very impressive and under-visited National Palace of Ajuda. We believe it’s certainly worth the detour, plus it’s an opportunity to burn off those sugary tarts!
Once the nineteenth century home of the Portuguese Royal Family, today the neo-classical structure houses an impressive collection of art and dozens of dazzling chandeliers. Entrance is €10 and it’s closed on Wednesdays.
#8 Take a Belem Boat Ride
Sailboats are available for hire from the Belem Bom Sucesso Marina, but come at a fairly steep price. For an inexpensive Belem boat trip that features stunning views of the entire Lisbon area, hop on the Porto Brandao – Belem Ferry for a short ride across the Tagus River.
#9 Tagus River Walk
The wide riverside path in Belem is one of the most scenic routes in Lisbon! Lined with various places to perch, the shoreline walkway is ideal for a leisurely stroll. In fact, the path nearly extends all the way back to the Lisbon city center, allowing you to walk the 3 miles from Belem to Cais do Sodre.
Not up for a long walk? There are plenty of places to hop a train, tram or bus along the way. We recommend walking east along the shoreline for about a 2 miles. Here you can then catch a train at Alcantara-Mar and ride the rest of the way back into central Lisbon.
#10 MAAT Museum
Whether you are walking back to Lisbon or not, there are a few more Belem sights you won’t want to miss. The MAAT Museum (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) is housed in a former power station and is a fascinating place to visit.
Even if you’re not interested in going inside, take the ramp up to the MAAT Rooftop. While not one of our all-time favorite Lisbon viewpoints, it’s great for views over the immediate area.
Closer to the Lisbon city center are two other attractions: the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience and LX Factory Market. Additionally, the marina facing bars and restaurants at Doca de Santo Amaro make for a pleasant pit-stop!
More Belem Things To Do
We’ve outlined the absolute best things to do in Belem, but what if you want to see more? Add these fun Belem Lisbon things to do to your list!
See the Belem Palace
The National Palace of Belem was built in the 17th century for royalty, and today it’s the official residence of the Portuguese President. The onsite museum is open for guided tours at various times throughout the week, but is closed on Mondays.
For the best views of the Belem Palace without entering, cross the street to Jardim Afonso de Albuquerque. The space also features an impressive statue of the Second Governor of Portuguese India.
Visit more Belem Museums
There are numerous interesting museums in Belem, however, during our visit the weather was just too nice to be indoors! On rainy or extremely hot days, visitors can enjoy top-rated museums like Museu Colecaso Berardo (modern and contemporary art), the Maritime Museum (Belem Navy Museum) or the National Coach Museum (featuring royal coaches).
Check out our list of Free Things To Do in Lisbon!
Tips for Visiting Belem
Before you head off, read our Essential Lisbon Tips for your trip to Belem, Portugal. Are you also considering other Lisbon Day Trips? Super! Read our complete DIY guides to Sintra and Cascais!
The Lisbon Card
The Lisbon Sightseeing Card can provide substantial savings for your Belem trip. Both the Tower and Jeronimos Monastery entrance fees are covered. Public transportation is also included with this Lisbon travel card and it can be purchased for 24, 48 or 72 hours.
Plan Your Complete Lisbon Itinerary!
Belem Tour
Interested in learning even more about the history of Belem? Join a tour led by a professional guide on a 3-hour Belem walk. The guide offers local insight into all the best attractions. Find out more about this excursion!
Where To Stay in Belem
On our very first trip to Lisbon, we decided to stay at the posh Altis Hotel and Spa. The contemporary rooms at the 5-star Belem hotel feature floor-to-ceiling windows. Some even have small balconies offering incredible views. Located right on the Tagus River, the Altis Belem also boasts a rooftop pool, an excellent buffet breakfast and amazing spa facilities.
Belem, Lisbon Map
Use this direct link for an interactive version of our Belem Portugal Map of Sights.
Are you also visiting Porto? Excellent! Be sure to read our plan for 10 Days in Portugal and Best Porto Itinerary before you go. During your visit use our top tips for Porto Food, Craft Beer and go on our Free Porto Walking Tour!
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific advice, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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