Things to do in Belém

Activities, attractions and tours

Padrão dos Descobrimentos showing a monument, a river or creek and heritage elements
Padrão dos Descobrimentos showing a square or plaza as well as a small group of people
Padrão dos Descobrimentos showing a river or creek, a bridge and sailing
Padrão dos Descobrimentos showing a bay or harbour
Padrão dos Descobrimentos which includes landscape views, a park and a city
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Top places to visit

1. Belém Tower

In the early 16th Century, this four-storey tower was built on basaltic rocks found by the Tagus River, in close proximity to the riverbank, with the intention of supplementing the existing fortification defences along the sea approach to Lisbon.
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Belem Tower which includes general coastal views, heritage architecture and a bridge

2. Jerónimos Monastery

The Jeronimos Monastery is an impressive monument with ornate façades and pointed spirals. The architecture is typical of the Portuguese late-gothic style and has Renaissance influences. The austere Hieronymite monks once worshipped here and prayed for the safety of Lisbon’s explorers.
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Jeronimos Monastery featuring a square or plaza, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

3. Pastéis de Belém

Pastéis de Belem is one of the busiest and best known pastry shops in a country known for mouth-watering sweets. No matter when you arrive, you’ll likely find lines out the door. It’s well worth the wait when you bite into the thin flaky crust and warm egg-custard center of a pastel de nata, Lisbon’s signature pastry.
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Pasteis de Belem which includes café lifestyle and interior views as well as a large group of people

4. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Lisbon’s Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) points out over the Tagus River. From this spot many sailing vessels followed the river out to the Atlantic Ocean to explore uncharted waters and discover new lands. View this concrete-and-limestone monument to study a 3-D mural of maritime figures. These people are recognized as Portugal’s leading individuals for introducing European customs and trade to distant regions.
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Padrão dos Descobrimentos featuring a bridge, street scenes and a monument

5. Maritime Museum

Lisbon’s Maritime Museum pays homage to the pioneering role of Portugal’s nautical explorers. Anyone interested in history, boating or cartography will enjoy spending time here. This is one of the largest collections of maritime artifacts in Europe, with about 17,000 items covering the middle ages through modern times.
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Maritime Museum featuring a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

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What to do in Belém

Popular places to visit

Rossio Square featuring a square or plaza, heritage elements and a fountain

Rossio Square

4/5(881 reviews)

See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.

Rossio Square
Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade

During your trip to Santo Antonio, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Avenida da Liberdade. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this romantic area or seek out the local tours.

Avenida da Liberdade
Campo Grande

Campo Grande

You can learn about the history of Alvalade when you stop by Campo Grande. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Campo Grande
Belem Tower which includes general coastal views, heritage architecture and a bridge

Belém Tower

4.5/5(779 reviews)

Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the northern bank of the Tagus River in the Belém district of Lisbon.

Belém Tower
Marquis of Pombal Square

Marquis of Pombal Square

4/5(259 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Lisbon with a stop at Marquis of Pombal Square. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed art galleries in this culturally rich area.

Marquis of Pombal Square
Santa Justa Elevator which includes night scenes, nightlife and outdoor eating

Santa Justa Elevator

4/5(719 reviews)

Ride the elevator designed in the 19th century to connect the districts of hilltop Bairro Alto and downtown Baixa. Enjoy views from the café atop the gothic lift.

Santa Justa Elevator
Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

4.5/5(183 reviews)

Enjoy an underwater adventure at one of the world’s largest and most diverse aquariums right on Lisbon’s beautiful waterfront.

Lisbon Oceanarium
Castle of Sao Jorge which includes a city, château or palace and views

Castle of São Jorge

4.5/5(764 reviews)

This medieval fortress offers insight into Lisbon’s long history as well as stunning views of the city and river below.

Castle of São Jorge
Commerce Square featuring a statue or sculpture

Commerce Square

4.5/5(715 reviews)

People-watch in this historic square while you enjoy a coffee and pastry in the café where the city’s literati once gathered.

Commerce Square

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Lisbon

Lisbon

Miradouro de Santa Luzia showing a coastal town and a lake or waterhole

Lisbon District

Benfica

Benfica

Frequently asked questions

Is Belém worth visiting?
Renowned for its cafes and culture, finding fun things to do in Belém is a cinch. Be sure to add Ajuda National Palace to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Belém?
Once you've visited top attractions like Maritime Museum, spend some time discovering the food and retail options in Belém.
What is the top tourist attraction in Belém?
The top tourist attraction near Belém is Ajuda National Palace, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Belém?
You'll have all the time you need to experience Ajuda National Palace, Quinta de Pancas and other top attractions around the area when you plan a three-day escape to Belém.
Is Belém a walkable neighbourhood?
Getting around Belém on foot is a breeze, with key attractions like Ajuda National Palace and Quinta de Pancas both within walking distance. Popular neighbourhoods like Alcântara and Restelo are also located only 3 kilometres and 2 kilometres from the centre of Belém, so you can see and do more — no wheels required.
What are some activities to do in Belém with kids?
Deciding what to do in Belém with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in Belém for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Belém for adults including Quinta de Pancas.
Are there free things to do in Belém?
One of the most popular free things to do in Belém is visit Berardo Collection. You can also stroll to nearby neighbourhoods and spend time in parks and other open spaces in the area. If you're looking for more ideas, just talk with a local tour guide.