Discover the Majestic Belém Tower: A Symbol of Lisbon's Maritime Heritage
Explore the historical Belém Tower in Lisbon, a stunning monument showcasing Portugal's maritime legacy and offering breathtaking river views.
Belém Tower, or Torre de Belém, is an architectural gem and a UNESCO World Heritage site that captures the essence of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River, this iconic monument was built in the early 16th century as a part of a defense system at the mouth of the river and served as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. Its ornate Manueline style, featuring intricate stonework and maritime motifs, reflects the era's artistic brilliance. As you approach the tower, be captivated by its impressive façade, which stands as a testament to Portugal's rich maritime history. Visitors can explore the tower's interior, which includes several levels with narrow staircases leading to an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding areas. The breathtaking vistas are perfect for photography enthusiasts and offer a unique perspective on the vibrant city of Lisbon. On a clear day, you can see the famous 25 de Abril Bridge and the stunning Jerónimos Monastery nearby, both of which are significant landmarks in their own right. The surrounding area, known as Belém, is also home to several other attractions, such as the Maritime Museum and the iconic Pastéis de Belém bakery, where you can taste the original custard tarts. This makes Belém Tower not just a monument but a gateway to a rich cultural experience. Be sure to spend some time wandering through the lush gardens and along the riverfront promenade, soaking in the historical ambiance and enjoying the fresh air. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a scenic spot to relax, Belém Tower is an essential stop in your Lisbon adventure.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Take advantage of the combined ticket options for nearby attractions to save on admission fees.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the views from the top are absolutely stunning.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are a lot of stairs to climb inside the tower.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary depending on the season.
A brief summary to Belém Tower
- Av. Brasília, Lisbon, 1400-038, PT
- +351213620034
Getting There
-
Car
From Beira Litoral, get on the A1 motorway heading towards Lisbon. Continue on A1 and take the exit towards A2 Lisboa. Follow the signs for Almada and then merge onto the 25 de Abril Bridge. After crossing the bridge, take the exit towards Av. da Liberdade and continue on this road. Follow the signs for Belém. Once in Belém, look for parking options near Av. Brasília. Note that parking might incur a fee, typically around €2-€3 per hour.
-
Train
Take a train from any station in Beira Litoral to Lisbon. The most convenient station to arrive at is Lisbon's Cais do Sodré. Once in Cais do Sodré, exit the station and take tram line 15E towards Algés. Ride the tram for about 20 minutes and get off at the 'Belém' stop. From there, it's a short walk to Belém Tower. The train ticket costs approximately €5-€10 depending on your departure point, and the tram ticket is around €1.50.
-
Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take a bus from Beira Litoral to Lisbon's Sete Rios bus station. Upon arrival, transfer to the metro and take the Blue Line towards Santa Apolónia. Get off at the 'Cais do Sodré' station and then take tram line 15E towards Algés. Get off at the 'Belém' stop. The bus ticket typically costs around €10, and the metro and tram tickets cost about €1.50 each.
-
Taxi/Rideshare
For a more direct and comfortable option, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber. Simply set your destination to 'Belém Tower, Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa'. From Beira Litoral, this trip can take about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. The cost can vary but expect to pay between €50-€80.
Attractions Nearby to Belém Tower
-
Ancora Navale
-
Bom Sucesso Fortress
-
Museu do Combatente
-
Jardim da Torre de Belém
-
"Lusitânia" | Monument to Gago Coutinho & Sacadura Cabral
-
Monument to the Overseas Combatants
-
Homenagem aos combatentes missões de Paz
-
Passadiço do Bom Sucesso-Belém
-
'Bom Sucesso' Marina
-
Taguscruises Boat Tours & Yacht Charter
-
Champalimaud Foundation
-
Street Art - Revolução dos Cravos, 25 de Abril
-
Belem Lighthouse
-
Big Raccoon Street Art by Bordalo II
-
Popular Art Museum
Landmarks nearby to Belém Tower
-
Big Raccoon
-
Real Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Belém
-
Jerónimos Monastery
-
Church of St. María of Belém
-
Távoras Pelourinho
-
Praça Afonso de Albuquerque
-
Afonso de Albuquerque
-
Chafariz do Palácio de Belém
-
Palácio Nacional de Belém
-
Primeira Pedra
-
Chafariz da Junqueira
-
Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
-
25 April Bridge
-
Túmulo Pedro de Sousa Holstein
-
Chafariz da Fonte Santa