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(Santa Maria de) Belém

A short distance from the historical centre of Lisbon, Belém (meaning Bethlehem) is where many of Portugal's voyages of discovery embarked from. The Belém district is a captivating blend of historical landmarks, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty. Situated along the Tagus River, this charming neighbourhood is steeped in history and renowned for its iconic attractions. At the heart of Belém stands the majestic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as a fortress to protect the city. Nearby, the stunning Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO site, showcases exquisite Manueline architecture and houses the tomb of explorer Vasco da Gama.

Belém is also famous for its delectable pastries, most notably the renowned Pastéis de Belém, delicious custard tarts that have been delighting visitors for centuries. Don't miss the chance to savour these sweet treats at the historic Pastéis de Belém bakery. For art enthusiasts, the Berardo Collection Museum offers a world-class display of modern and contemporary art, while the National Coach Museum houses an impressive collection of royal carriages.

Nature lovers can unwind in the lush surroundings of Belém's riverside parks, where picturesque gardens and scenic promenades provide a serene escape from the city bustle. With its wealth of attractions and rich cultural heritage, Belém invites visitors to embark on a memorable journey through Lisbon's illustrious past and vibrant present.

Top Attractions of Belém

Torre de Belém

Lisbon's most iconic monument.

Belém Palace

The official home of the Portuguese president.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Built to commemorate Vasco da Gama's epic sea voyage to India.

Ajuda palace

A very opulent royal residence.

National Coach Museum

An impressive collection of 15th & 16th century carriages.

Jardim Botânico d'Ajuda

Created in 1768 as part of Ajuda Palace.

Planetário Calouste Gulbenkian

A window into the heavens.

TOP BELÉM TOURS

Belém Walking Tour and Jerónimos Monastery Ticket

Belém Walking Tour and Jerónimos Monastery Ticket

Explore Lisbon's Age of Discoveries on this guided walking tour in Belém. Visit iconic sites like Belém Tower and enjoy skip-the-line access to the Jerónimos Monastery. Meet your guide in the Garden of Afonso de Albuquerque and travel back in time. Indulge in an authentic Pastéis de Belém and savour the famous egg tarts. Marvel at the late Gothic architecture of the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery.


Stroll along the river to the modern monument dedicated to Portuguese explorers. Enjoy breathtaking views where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Tagus River at Belém Tower. Create unforgettable memories and receive personalised recommendations for your Lisbon visit.

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Electric Bike Tour by the River to Belém

Electric Bike Tour by the River to Belém

Embark on a relaxing tour along Lisbon's riverside, starting in the cosmopolitan city centre. As you journey toward Belém, the vibrant energy of this European capital transitions into a more tranquil atmosphere. Travelling along the riverside provides an enjoyable journey filled with light, scenic landscapes, and lively city life. Belém offers history enthusiasts a glimpse into the Portuguese Discoveries, with its grand architecture and storied past. This neighbourhood was the launch point for many renowned explorers, shaping Portugal into the first global empire. This tour offers a harmonious blend of serenity and urban charm. Explore bustling riverfront esplanades, lush green fields, and talented local musicians, joggers, and artists capturing Lisbon's essence.

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Discovering Belém Tuk Tuk Tour

Discovering Belém Tuk Tuk Tour

Explore the historic Belém district of Lisbon with a two-hour tuk-tuk tour along the Tagus River. Admire the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery and its beautiful church, showcasing Portugal's architectural brilliance.

Visit the iconic Belém Tower, where Portuguese explorers embarked on their 1500 journey that led to the discovery of Brazil. Discover the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument, paying tribute to key figures of Portugal's Age of Discoveries.

Before leaving Belém, savour the delectable Pastéis de Belém, the famous custard tarts that are known worldwide. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it a must-experience in Lisbon.


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Pastéis de Belém

Pasteis de Belém

Pasteis de Belém

During the liberal revolution of the early 19th century, Portugal saw the closure of convents and monasteries, leading to the expulsion of the clergy. Adjacent to the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, during this period, stood a sugar cane refinery coupled with a small general store. To sustain themselves, the monastery began crafting sweet pastries for sale in the shop, which swiftly gained fame as 'Pasteis de Belém'. As Belém welcomed more visitors, the production of these pastries expanded to larger facilities linked to the refinery.

This tradition endures today, with the pastries handcrafted according to the original secret recipe. A visit to the bakery is essential, where these delectable treats are best enjoyed fresh, dusted with either icing sugar or cinnamon. The exclusive title of "Pastéis de Belém" is reserved for these pastries, although Pastéis de Natas made elsewhere have become synonymous with Lisbon and Portugal. Indulge in this iconic culinary delight for an authentic taste of Portuguese heritage.

714, 727, 728, 729, 751. | 15E | Daily: 08h00 – 23h00
84 - 92 Rua de Belém, 1300 – 085 Lisboa, Portugal. | 38° 41' 50.8"N | 09° 12' 11.7"W |
+351 213 637 423 | pasteisdebelem@pasteisdebelem.pt |  Website | Facebook

Jardim Botânico Tropical (Tropical Botanic Gardens)

A leisurely walk through the Jardim Botânico Tropical offers a rejuvenating experience amidst its lush greenery, tranquil water features, and occasional sightings of peacocks. Established in 1906 under King Carlos I's decree, these gardens boast a rich collection of over 4,000 plant species sourced from across the Portuguese empire. Also referred to as Jardim do Ultramar, it houses the Tropical Museum and the Institute of Scientific Tropical Research (Instituto de Investigação Científica Tropical), dedicated to conservation efforts. Explore this botanical oasis to immerse yourself in the diversity of flora and learn about ongoing scientific endeavours in tropical preservation. Enjoy a serene escape into nature's embrace while discovering the botanical treasures that reflect Portugal's colonial legacy. [ More About ► ]

714, 727, 728, 729, 751 | 15E | Daily: 09h30 - 12h00/14h00 - 16h30
Adult: €1.50, Concessionary: €0.75, Child under 7: FREE
Largo dos Jerónimos 1400-209, Lisboa, Portugal.
38° 41′ 55.3″ N | 09° 12′ 8.8″ W | +351 213 609 665
jbt@iict.pt | Facebook

Yellow Boat Tour
Jardim Botânico Tropical (Tropical Botanic Gardens)

Jardim Botânico Tropical (Tropical Botanic Gardens)

Igreja da Memória

Igreja da Memória

Igreja da Memória

Resembling the Estrela Basilica in Alfama, this church commemorates King José I's miraculous evasion of a lone assassin's bullet on the 3rd of September, 1758, constructed precisely where the attempt occurred. Additionally, it serves as the burial site for the enigmatic Marquis de Pombal, the political figure who spearheaded the investigation into the assassination endeavour. While the church boasts a magnificent 18th-century Baroque facade, its interior exudes a more solemn atmosphere. Explore this historical landmark to delve into Portugal's past and witness the juxtaposition of architectural grandeur with profound reverence. FREE
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727 | 18E
Largo da Memória, 1300-399 Lisboa, Portugal.
38° 42′ 10.8″ N | 09° 12.7' 24″ W

TOP ACCOMMODATION SUGGESTIONS

Altis Belem Hotel & Spa

Altis Belem Hotel & Spa ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A five star design hotel in Belém overlooking the Tagus River, a contemporary experience of the Golden Age of Discovery. Here you can find the gourmet Restaurant Feitoria and the Spa BSpa. The theme of discovery is threaded throughout all of the hotel's 50 luxury rooms (including five suites) absorbing and enticing you to embark on an exotic journey displayed in a series of illustrated wall panels, giving each room a bespoke atmosphere.

Doca do Bom Sucesso 1400-038, Belém, Lisboa, Portugal.
38º 41' 36" N | 09º 12' 38" W

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Hotel Jeronimos 8

Hotel Jeronimos 8 ★ ★ ★ ★

Lisbon's first design hotel, Hotel Jerónimos 8 is a four-star hotel that stands apart for its concept and convenient location in Belém, in the centre of major monuments and museums. An urban resort that combines three colours in its contemporary design (an exciting "chocolate" brown, a stimulating "carmine" red, and a "relaxing" cream) to incite surprising feelings of harmony and tranquility.

The hotel offers an open-air patio for the pleasure of its guests. The private patios' oriental inspiration creates a serene atmosphere in which to relax during the stay. The soothing sound of running water, the intense brightness of the white and the tranquil green of the grass and bamboos are interrupted only by the sofas that beckon for someone to sink into them.

8 Rua Dos Jeronimos, 1400-2011 Lisbon Portugal.
38° 41' 54.7" N | 09º 12' 18.4" W

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Hotel Jeronimos 8

Atelier - House in Belém (Apartment)

Located in Belém, 350 yards from Jeronimos Monastery, Atelier - House in Belém provides accommodation with a shared lounge, free WiFi and a shared kitchen. The property has a garden and city views, The apartment features thre bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, and a bathroom with a shower.

1 Travessa das Galinheiras,, Belem, 1300-265 Lisbon, Portugal. .
38° 41' 52.4" N | 09º 12' 12.6" W

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Enoteca de BelémEnoteca de Belém

Enoteca de Belém

The "Enoteca de Belém" – Wine Bar, a place dedicated to experimentation and to be a meeting place, for people and flavours, in an artistic and cultural atmosphere inherent to the Travessa and its spaces, puts its bet on the divulgation of the national wine and gastronomic culture. Service is discreet, professional and knowledgeable.

Tuesday-Sunday: 13h30 - 23h00, Monday: CLOSED
Mercador do Tempo Lda, Travessa do Marta Pinto 21, 1300-390 Lisboa, Portugal.
38º 41' 51.4" N | 09º 12' 12.9" W | +351 213 637 700
winebardocasteloenoteca@gmail.com | Facebook


Restaurante Solar do Embaixador

Restaurante Solar do Embaixador

Solar do Embaixador is a family restaurant always receiving customers with a sincere smile and an excellent service. Specialising in Brazilian cuisine, specifically from northeast Brazil and conjures up such specialties as "Fish Moqueca" and "Shrimp Moqueca".

Daily: 12h30 - 22h00
Rua do Embaixador 210, Belém, 1300-390 Lisboa, Portugal.
38º 41' 52.4" N | 09º 11' 57.2" W | + 351 213 625 111
cesar@solardoembaixador.com | Facebook


Darwin Café

An ideal location on the bank of the river in the Champalimaud Foundation science centre, it's decor is modern based on a Charles Darwin theme. The menu is extensive offering a variety of Portuguese and international dishes.

Tuesday - Sunday: 12h30 - 23h00, Sunday: 12h00 - 16h00, Monday: CLOSED
Champalimaud centre for the unknown, Avenida Brasília, Ala B 1400-038, Lisboa, Portugal.
38º 41' 36.9" N | 09º 13' 15.8" W | + 351 213 625 111
info@darwincafe.com | Website

Only 14.4km (9 mi) south of Lisbon Portela Airport Website

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From the North take the A36. The N6 runs through Belém West to East.
Latitude - 38º 41' 46.3" | Longitude - 09º 12' 11.3"

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Urban train services (comboios urbanos) Belém train station:
• Cascais/Cais do Sodré line Timetable

Trains of Portugal Website
There are no Metro lines that service Belém, however the Azul line goes to Cais do Sodré train station where you can connect with an Urban train (see above) to Belém: Website
• Carris bus routes to Belém from various areas around the city: Carris Website

• 201 - Linda-a-Velha Cais Sodré: Timetable
• 714 - Pç. Figueira - Outurela: Timetable
• 727 - Estação Roma-Areeiro - Restelo: Timetable
• 728 - Restelo - Portela: Timetable
• 729 - B.º Padre Cruz - Algés: Timetable
• 751 - Estação Campolide - Linda-a-Velha: Timetable

• 15E: Praça Figueira - Algés (Jardim) via Belém: Timetable