Belém, a scenic Lisbon suburb by the River Tagus, is steeped in Portugal's Age of Discoveries, when explorers set sail to chart new lands. It's the launch site of Vasco da Gama's 1497 voyage to India. Today, Belém is home to grand monuments like the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the Torre de Belém, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the modern Padrão dos Descobrimentos.
Visitors can enjoy the area's parks, museums, and cultural centers, easily accessible by train or tram, with a riverside esplanade offering cafes and restaurants.
1. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
The Jerónimos Monastery is a prime example of Manueline architecture, commissioned by King Manuel I. It houses royal tombs and the remains of Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões. The monastery's cloister, designed by João de Castilho, showcases exquisite stone carvings.
Address: Praça do Império, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: www.mosteirojeronimos.pt
2. Torre de Belém
The iconic Torre de Belém, a former fortress, is adorned with Manueline motifs and offers panoramic views from its upper terrace. Visitors can explore its Renaissance loggia and climb the steep spiral staircase to discover hidden details.
Address: Avenida da Brasília, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: www.torrebelem.pt
3. Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
The Palácio Nacional da Ajuda, once a royal residence, is known for its luxurious interiors, including the Queen's Bedroom and the Banqueting Hall, still used for state ceremonies.
Address: Largo da Ajuda, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: http://www.palacioajuda.gov.pt
4. Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia
The MAAT, with its serpentine façade, showcases the interplay between art and technology, complemented by the Electricity Museum's interactive exhibits within the historic Tejo Power Station.
Address: Avenida Brasília, Centro Tejo, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: https://www.maat.pt
5. Antiga Confeitaria de Belém
The Antiga Confeitaria de Belém is famous for its Pasteis de Nata, a secret recipe from the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. The bakery serves thousands of these pastries daily.
Address: Rua de Belém 84-92, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: http://pasteisdebelem.pt/
6. Padrão dos Descobrimentos
This monument celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery, featuring figures like Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama. A pavement compass and map in front of the monument detail the explorers' routes.
Address: Avenida da Brasília, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: www.padraodosdescobrimentos.pt
7. Museu Nacional dos Coches
The Coach Museum boasts an impressive collection of royal and ceremonial carriages, including the world's oldest coach from 1619 and the extravagant Crown Carriage.
Address: Avenida da Índia 136 Belém, Lisbon
Official site: http://museudoscoches.gov.pt
8. Escola Portuguesa de Arte Equestra
Visitors can enjoy classical dressage performances by the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, showcasing the harmony between horse and rider.
Address: Picadeiro Henrique Calado, Calçada da Ajuda, Belém, Lisbon
Official site: http://arteequestre.pt
9. Centro Cultural de Belém
The CCB is a hub for the performing arts and houses the Museu Coleção Berardo, featuring modern and contemporary art.
Address: Praça do Império, Belém, Lisbon
10. Museu de Marinha
The Maritime Museum, located in the Jerónimos Monastery, chronicles Portugal's seafaring history, including the Age of Discovery.
Address: Praça do Império, Belém, Lisbon
11. Museu da Presidência da República-Palácio de Belém
This museum displays gifts to Portuguese presidents and offers guided tours of the adjacent Belém Palace.
Address: Praça Afonso de Albuquerque, Belém, Lisbon
Where to Stay in Belém for Sightseeing
Belém offers a range of accommodations, from the luxury Altis Belem Hotel & Spa to the budget-friendly Casa Amarela Belém.
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Belém
Walking tours and river cruises are excellent ways to explore Belém's rich history and beautiful sights.
Beyond Belém: Other Must-See Sights in and near Lisbon
Combine a visit to Belém with trips to nearby destinations like Sintra, Setúbal, and the Lisbon coast's beaches.
