Things to do in Belém, Lisbon
11 places curated from 10 travel vlogs — the more a spot gets mentioned, the higher it ranks
Pastéis de Belém
The bakery where Portugal's famous custard tarts originated. They have been handmade by a secret recipe since 1837 and served hot from the oven.
Belém Tower
A pre-earthquake tower that once protected Lisbon's harbor. It was the last sight departing explorers saw and now symbolizes Portugal's voyages of discovery.
Jerónimos Monastery
King Manuel's monastery, funded by spice taxes, holds Lisbon's most impressive church in the ornate Manueline style. It also contains Vasco da Gama's tomb and lacy cloisters Rick calls his favorite in Europe.
Belém
A waterfront district that survived the 1755 earthquake. It preserves Lisbon's great buildings from its Age of Discovery glory days.
Monument to the Discoveries
A caravel-shaped monument built in 1960 for the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator's death. It features Henry, Vasco da Gama, Magellan and other explorers.
Navy Museum (Museu de Marinha)
A naval museum showing how Portugal built its empire. Exhibits on caravels and navigation instruments explain the country's 15th–16th-century maritime dominance.
Belém Waterfront Promenade
A riverside promenade in Belém with fantastic views towards the 25 de Abril Bridge.
MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
A striking riverside museum opened in 2016 that hosts temporary exhibitions by national and international artists and architects. Its rooftop offers great views of the 25 de Abril Bridge and the city.
Tejo Power Station
A former thermoelectric power plant next to MAAT, now a permanent exhibition venue.
Palácio Nacional de Belém
Belém Palace is one of the neighbourhood's iconic landmarks, best visited early in the morning before the cruise crowds arrive.
Sud Lisboa
Modern restaurant and event venue near Belém with an unbeatable Tagus River view from its patio. It suits a treat-yourself meal of dishes like oxtail ragù and seafood pasta, at about $50-70 per person.