Belém
Stories of Explorers and Discoveries
Belém
Belém is one of Lisbon's most outstanding neighborhoods, famous among visitors for being home to some of the city's most iconic monuments.
This is where you need to come to admire the Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries and the Jerónimos Monastery.
The history of this part of Lisbon is tied to the river and the sea, to fishermen and their port, and to the age of maritime exploration by Portuguese navigators during the 15th and 16th centuries.
From a small village on the outskirts of Lisbon, it grew into a strategic hub for maritime trade and later became an important commercial port and haven for seafarers.
It was from Belém that great Portuguese navigators such as Vasco da Gama set sail.
This area is also home to several museums, the famous pastéis de nata , and a large green space with several gardens along the riverbank.
Throughout the attractions of the Belém neighborhood there is a riverside cycle path, perfect for a ride starting from Cais do Sodré or even from Praça do Comércio in the center of Lisbon.
Getting There
Trams 15E and 18E (boarded in central Lisbon), Buses 201, 727, 728, 729, and 751.
What to See in Belém
Here is what makes a visit to Belém in Lisbon unmissable:
Belém Tower
Belém Tower marked the departure point for Portuguese voyages of discovery to India, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Jerónimos Monastery
One of Portugal's most important monuments. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monument to the Discoveries
A riverside monument representing the many figures of the Age of Discovery.
Pastéis de Belém
The famous pastéis de nata you simply cannot miss. They have been served here since 1837.
MAAT Museum
Art, architecture, and technology in exhibitions along the banks of the Tagus.
National Coach Museum
The National Coach Museum is one of the most visited museums in Portugal.
Berardo Museum
The Berardo Contemporary Art Museum is located within the Centro Cultural Belém (CCB).
Maritime Museum
Scale models of different ships, maps, and navigational instruments from Portugal's maritime history.
