A City Guide to Things to Do in Belem, Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is located in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula on the Atlantic Ocean. An enchanting city of vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe and is full of history and tradition. Belem, a district of Lisbon located on the northern bank of the Tagus River, is one of the most popular areas for visitors to explore.

History and Culture

Belem was once a strategic port for Portugal’s Age of Discovery and is home to many of the city’s most iconic monuments, such as the Jeronimos Monastery. Founded in 1502 as a religious center and a place of worship, the monastery has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see attraction.

The area also boasts several other important historical sites, such as the Torre de Belem, a 16th-century tower that was constructed during Portugal’s golden age. As one of the country’s most iconic landmarks, the tower stands guard over the Tagus River and is a great spot for taking in spectacular views.

Belem’s cultural scene is also alive and well, with plenty of museums, art galleries, theaters, and music festivals. A great place to explore local culture is the Berardo Museum, which displays works from some of Portugal’s most renowned artists.

Delicious Cuisine and Shopping

No visit to Belem is complete without trying the local cuisine. The area is home to some of Lisbon’s best restaurants, serving up traditional Portuguese dishes such as caldeirada (fish stew) and bacalhau (salted cod). For dessert, try the classic pastel de nata (custard tart), which is arguably Portugal’s most iconic pastry.

Shopping is also a popular pastime in Belem. The district is home to some great markets selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and traditional crafts. For more upscale shopping, head over to Parque das Nacoes to browse designer boutiques and upscale stores.

Outdoor Activities

Belem is an ideal spot for outdoor activities. One of the district’s most popular attractions is the 25 de Abril Bridge, which spans the Tagus River. Taking a stroll across it is a great way to take in stunning views of both Belem and Lisbon. Another great spot for a leisurely stroll is the Belem Gardens, where visitors can admire beautiful gardens, fountains, and sculptures.

For those looking for something more active, Belem has plenty of beaches and parks that are ideal for jogging or cycling. There are also several boat tours available from Belem’s riverfront promenade that offer scenic views of the area and its monuments.

Example Tour 1: Lisbon by Boat

See Lisbon from a different perspective with this boat tour through the Tagus River. The tour departs from Belem and takes visitors on a journey through the heart of Lisbon. The route passes by iconic monuments such as the Monument to the Discoveries and Jeronimos Monastery as well as some of Lisbon’s most famous bridges. On board, there is also entertainment from a live band and plenty of delicious snacks to enjoy. The tour lasts around one hour and fifteen minutes and is a great way to get acquainted with Lisbon’s impressive sights. Book a Lisbon Boat Tour here.

Example Tour 2: Lisbon Food Tour

Discover Lisbon’s vibrant culinary scene with this food tour through Belem. Participants begin at a local market to sample some traditional Portuguese snacks, then head over to one of Belem’s renowned pastry shops to try a delicious pastel de nata (custard tart). The tour also stops at some of the area’s top restaurants where visitors can sample local specialties such as caldeirada (fish stew) and bacalhau (salted cod). The tour lasts about three hours and provides an in-depth look at Lisbon’s diverse gastronomy. Book a Lisbon Food Tour here.

Example Tour 3: Belem Cultural Tour

Explore Belem’s rich cultural heritage with this guided tour through some of the area’s most iconic attractions. Participants visit some of the area’s most renowned monuments such as the Jeronimos Monastery and Torre de Belem, as well as some lesser-known sights like Seteais Palace and Coach Museum. Along the way, guests learn about the history and culture of Belem and get to see some stunning views over Lisbon’s rooftops. The tour lasts around three hours and is a great way to get an insider’s look at Lisbon’s past and present. Book a Belem Cultural Tour here.

Conclusion

Belem has something for everyone, from its stunning monuments and vibrant culture to its delicious cuisine and outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore its history or sample its local delicacies, Belem has it all. With its variety of attractions, it’s no wonder Belem has become one of Lisbon’s most popular areas for visitors to explore!