Lisbon Belem

Belém is one of Lisbon’s most historically resonant districts, closely tied to Portugal’s maritime expansion during the Age of Discovery.

It sits along the Tagus River, where explorers such as Vasco da Gama embarked on voyages that reshaped global trade and cultural exchange. This riverside setting still defines the atmosphere of the area, blending open horizons with monumental architecture that reflects the ambitions and wealth of that era. The district’s identity is deeply rooted in this legacy, making it a place where Lisbon’s past feels unusually present.

The neighborhood is home to some of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks, including the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its cloisters, ornate stonework, and historical significance make it one of the country’s most visited monuments, and it houses the tombs of figures such as Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões. Nearby stands the Belém Tower, another emblem of Portugal’s seafaring history, as well as the Monument to the Discoveries, which celebrates the navigators who departed from these shores. Together, these sites form a dense cluster of cultural and architectural heritage unmatched elsewhere in Lisbon.

Belém is also a place of gardens, museums, and culinary traditions that give it a more relaxed and inviting character. The district features expansive green spaces and promenades along the river, offering a calm contrast to Lisbon’s more compact central neighborhoods. It is also home to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, where the original custard tarts have been made since the 19th century, adding a gastronomic dimension to the area’s appeal. With its blend of history, culture, and leisure, Belém remains one of Lisbon’s most distinctive and rewarding districts to explore.

Suggested Tram 15 tour in Belém
Figueira Square → Comércio Square → National Museum of Ancient Art → Museum of the Orient → National Coach Museum → Pasteis de Balém Factory → Jerónimos Monastery → Monument of the Discoveries → Belém Tower

Figueira Square
Figueira Square, or Praça da Figueira, is one of the main squares in Lisbon’s Baixa district, located just behind Rossio Square.

It was created in the late 18th century after the demolition of the Hospital de Todos os Santos, which had been severely damaged in the 1755 earthquake. The square was initially used as a marketplace, and its name, meaning “Square of the Fig Tree,” recalls the orchards that once existed in the area. Today, it is a large open space framed by uniform Pombaline-style buildings, typical of the reconstruction efforts that reshaped Lisbon after the earthquake. At its center stands an equestrian statue of King João I, erected in 1971, commemorating the monarch who secured Portugal’s independence from Castile in the 14th century.
Over time, Figueira Square has evolved into a lively hub of commerce and transport. It is surrounded by cafés, shops, and hotels, and serves as a key point for Lisbon’s tram and bus routes. The square’s open layout makes it a popular gathering place, offering views of São Jorge Castle rising above the city. Its blend of historical resonance and everyday activity reflects Lisbon’s character as a city where past and present coexist seamlessly. Figueira Square remains an essential part of the Baixa district, linking Lisbon’s history with its modern urban life.
See more at Praça da Figueira - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Kyle Taylor distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Tram 15
Tram 15 in Lisbon runs along the city’s waterfront, connecting the historic center with Belém and Algés.

Traditionally, the route begins at Praça da Figueira in the Baixa district, passes through Praça do Comércio, and continues west along the Tagus River. It travels through Cais do Sodré, Santos, Alcântara, and Junqueira before reaching Belém, home to major landmarks such as the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. From there, the tram continues further west to its final destination in Algés, serving as one of the main links between central Lisbon and the western suburbs.
The tram is especially popular with visitors because it provides direct access to Lisbon’s riverside monuments. Unlike the traditional yellow trams, Tram 15 usually operates with modern articulated vehicles to accommodate the heavy passenger demand. The journey from the city center to Belém takes about 30 minutes, though traffic can extend travel time. Along the way, passengers enjoy views of the Tagus and pass through lively districts that showcase Lisbon’s mix of history and modern life. As the second most popular tram after the famous Tram 28, Tram 15 remains both a practical transport option and a scenic ride through Lisbon’s cultural corridor.
See more at 15E CCFL - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Mauersegler distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.

Comércio Square
Comércio Square, also known as Praça do Comércio or Terreiro do Paço, is one of Lisbon’s most emblematic landmarks.

Located along the Tagus River, it was rebuilt in the late 18th century after the devastating 1755 earthquake as part of the city’s grand reconstruction plan led by the Marquis of Pombal. The square is framed by symmetrical yellow Pombaline-style buildings with arcades, giving it a monumental and harmonious appearance. At its center stands the equestrian statue of King José I, inaugurated in 1775, symbolizing Portugal’s resilience and renewal. The Arco da Rua Augusta, a triumphal arch leading into the Baixa district, adds further grandeur to the square’s design.
Historically, Comércio Square was the site of the Royal Palace before the earthquake, and it remained a focal point of political and commercial life in Lisbon. Ships once docked directly at the square, making it a gateway for trade and international connections. Today, it is a lively public space hosting cultural events, outdoor cafés, and museums such as the Lisboa Story Centre. Its riverside location offers sweeping views of the Tagus, while its architectural symmetry and historical significance make it a central symbol of Lisbon’s identity.
See more at Praça do Comércio - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Deensel, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Triumphal Arch
The Triumphal Arch of Rua Augusta, located at the northern end of Comércio Square in Lisbon, is one of the city’s most recognizable monuments.

Completed in 1875 after decades of construction, it was designed to commemorate Lisbon’s reconstruction following the devastating 1755 earthquake. The arch is a grand neoclassical structure adorned with allegorical sculptures, including figures representing Glory, Valor, and Genius, as well as statues of historical leaders such as Vasco da Gama, the Marquis of Pombal, and Nuno Álvares Pereira. Its monumental scale and ornate decoration symbolize Lisbon’s resilience and renewal in the face of disaster.
The arch also serves as a gateway between the riverside square and Rua Augusta, one of Lisbon’s busiest pedestrian streets. Visitors can ascend to the top of the arch, where a viewing platform offers sweeping panoramas of the city, including the Tagus River, Comércio Square, and the Baixa district. Today, the Triumphal Arch is both a historical landmark and a popular attraction, embodying Lisbon’s spirit of endurance while providing a striking architectural centerpiece in the heart of the city.
See more at Rua Augusta Arch - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

National Museum of Ancient Art
The National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga), located in Lisbon’s Santos district, is Portugal’s most important art museum, housing a vast collection that spans from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century.

Established in 1884, it occupies the former Palace of the Counts of Alvor, overlooking the Tagus River. The museum’s holdings include Portuguese and European paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, textiles, and ceramics, with highlights such as the famous Panels of Saint Vincent by Nuno Gonçalves, masterpieces of Portuguese Renaissance art. Its collection also reflects Portugal’s global connections during the Age of Discoveries, with works from Africa, Asia, and South America that illustrate the cultural exchanges of the time.
Beyond its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and conservation projects, making it a dynamic center for cultural heritage. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to gold and silverware, illuminated manuscripts, and furniture, as well as enjoy the museum’s gardens with views of the river. As of September 2025, the museum is temporarily closed to the public for renovation works under the Recovery and Resilience Plan, with reopening dependent on the progress of this intervention.
See more at National Museum of Ancient Art - Wikipedia.
Photograph by João Carvalho, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.

National Museum of Ancient Art - Monstrance of Belém
The Monstrance of Belém, housed in the National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon, is one of Portugal’s most celebrated masterpieces of religious art.

Crafted in 1506 by the goldsmith Gil Vicente, it is a dazzling example of Manueline style, blending Gothic and Renaissance influences with maritime motifs that reflect Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. The monstrance was commissioned by King Manuel I and is made of gold brought from Africa, symbolizing both the wealth and global reach of the Portuguese empire. Its intricate design includes delicate filigree, miniature figures, and ornate detailing that highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of the period.
Beyond its artistic brilliance, the Monstrance of Belém carries deep historical and cultural significance. It represents the intertwining of faith, monarchy, and exploration during Portugal’s golden age, serving both as a liturgical object and a statement of national identity. The piece is considered one of the finest works of Portuguese goldsmithing and remains a highlight of the museum’s collection, admired for its beauty and the story it tells of Portugal’s expansion and devotion.
See more at National Museum of Ancient Art - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Victorcouto, distributed under a CC-BY 1.0 license.

National Museum of Ancient Art - Nanban Art
Nanban Art at the National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon represents a fascinating chapter of cultural exchange between Portugal and Japan during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

The term Nanban means "southern barbarian" in Japanese, referring to the Portuguese traders and missionaries who arrived in Japan in 1543. The museum’s collection includes folding screens, lacquerware, and other decorative objects that depict scenes of Portuguese ships, merchants, and Jesuit missionaries interacting with Japanese society. These works are remarkable for their blend of Japanese artistic techniques with European themes, reflecting the curiosity and adaptation that characterized this period of contact.
The Nanban collection is significant not only for its artistic value but also for its historical importance. It illustrates the impact of Portugal’s maritime expansion and the introduction of Christianity to Japan, as well as the exchange of goods, ideas, and aesthetics between East and West. The vivid depictions of Portuguese figures in Japanese attire, bustling port scenes, and religious ceremonies provide a unique visual record of this encounter. Today, the museum’s Nanban Art stands as a testament to Lisbon’s role in global history and the enduring legacy of cross-cultural dialogue during the Age of Discoveries.
See more at Nanban art - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Jeanne-vick, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.

National Museum of Ancient Art - Triptych of the Temptation of St. Anthony
The Triptych of the Temptation of St. Anthony, housed in the National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon, is one of the most striking works attributed to Hieronymus Bosch and his workshop.

Painted in the early 16th century, it depicts the trials and spiritual battles of St. Anthony, a Christian hermit who became a symbol of endurance against sin and temptation. The central panel shows the saint surrounded by grotesque figures, fantastical creatures, and surreal landscapes, illustrating the chaos of temptation. The side panels expand on this theme, presenting bizarre and unsettling imagery that blends religious allegory with Bosch’s imaginative vision.
This triptych is celebrated not only for its vivid detail but also for its psychological depth, reflecting the anxieties and moral concerns of its time. The work combines elements of medieval symbolism with Renaissance artistry, offering a unique window into the spiritual imagination of the early modern period. Today, it stands as one of the museum’s most important treasures, admired for its complexity and the way it challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of temptation, faith, and human frailty.
See more at Triptych of the Temptation of St. Anthony - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Paul Hermans, distributed under a CC-BY 1.0 license.

Museum of the Orient
The Museum of the Orient in Lisbon is dedicated to showcasing the cultural and artistic connections between Portugal and Asia, reflecting centuries of interaction during the Age of Discoveries.

Opened in 2008, it is housed in a converted warehouse along the Alcântara waterfront, offering a modern space for exhibitions and cultural events. Its permanent collection includes Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Southeast Asian art, with highlights such as lacquerware, textiles, masks, and religious artifacts. The museum also preserves important pieces related to Portugal’s presence in Asia, including maps, documents, and objects that illustrate the exchange of ideas, goods, and traditions.
In addition to its permanent displays, the Museum of the Orient hosts temporary exhibitions, performances, and educational programs that explore Asian cultures and their influence on Portuguese history. It serves as both a cultural bridge and a research center, promoting dialogue between East and West. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s auditorium, library, and restaurant with views of the Tagus River, making it a multifaceted destination. The Museum of the Orient stands out as a place where history, art, and intercultural understanding converge in Lisbon.
See more at Museum of the Orient - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Joaomartinho63, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.

Collections of the Museum of the Orient
The collections of the Museum of the Orient in Lisbon highlight the deep cultural ties between Portugal and Asia, built during centuries of maritime exploration and trade.

The museum houses an extensive range of artifacts from China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia, including lacquerware, textiles, masks, religious sculptures, and ceramics. One of its most distinctive holdings is the Nanban art collection, which depicts the arrival of Portuguese traders and missionaries in Japan during the 16th and 17th centuries. These works, along with rare maps and documents, illustrate the exchanges of goods, ideas, and traditions that shaped both Portuguese and Asian societies.
Beyond its Asian art treasures, the museum also preserves objects related to Portugal’s own history of overseas expansion, such as navigational instruments, religious relics, and items brought back from colonial encounters. The diversity of the collections reflects not only artistic achievement but also the broader story of cultural dialogue between East and West. Together, they provide a vivid picture of how Portugal’s global presence influenced and was influenced by Asian civilizations, making the Museum of the Orient a unique repository of shared heritage.
See more at Museum of the Orient - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

National Coach Museum
The National Coach Museum in Lisbon is one of the city’s most visited cultural institutions, renowned for its exceptional collection of royal vehicles from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Founded in 1905 by Queen Amélia of Orléans and Bragança, it was originally housed in the old riding ring of the Palace of Belém. Today, the museum is split between its historic location and a modern building inaugurated in 2015, designed by architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha. Its displays include richly decorated coaches, berlins, sedan chairs, and carriages used by the Portuguese royal family, the church, and noble households, offering a vivid glimpse into the grandeur of European courts before the advent of motor vehicles.
The collection is unique worldwide, featuring masterpieces such as Philip II’s late 16th-century traveling coach and the monumental vehicles created for Portugal’s embassy to Pope Clement XI in 1716, adorned with gilded iconography celebrating the Age of Discoveries. Beyond their artistic and technical value, these vehicles illustrate the evolution of ceremonial transport and the social importance of pageantry in Portugal’s history. The museum also serves as an urban cultural space, hosting exhibitions and educational programs that connect Lisbon’s past with its present.
See more at National Coach Museum - Wikipedia.
Top photograph by GualdimG distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
Bottom photograph by Pedro Ribeiro Simões distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Pasteis de Belém Factory
The Pastéis de Belém Factory, established in 1837, is the birthplace of Lisbon’s most famous custard tarts.

Located near the Jerónimos Monastery in the Belém district, it continues to produce the pastries using the original recipe handed down from the monks of the monastery. This recipe remains a closely guarded secret, known only to a handful of master confectioners. The factory’s interior is decorated with traditional Portuguese blue-and-white tiles, creating a distinctive atmosphere that reflects the country’s cultural heritage. Each day, thousands of tarts are baked fresh, attracting long lines of locals and tourists eager to taste the authentic version of this delicacy.
Beyond its culinary fame, the factory has become a landmark in Lisbon, symbolizing the city’s traditions and its connection to the Age of Discoveries. Its location in Belém places it among some of Portugal’s most important monuments, including the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, making it a natural stop for visitors exploring the area. The Pastéis de Belém Factory is not only a place to enjoy one of Portugal’s most beloved treats but also a living piece of history, preserving a recipe and tradition that has endured for nearly two centuries.
See more at Pastel de nata - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Leandro Neumann Ciuffo distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.

Pasteis de Belém
Pastéis de Belém are Lisbon’s most iconic pastries, renowned for their flaky crust and creamy custard filling.

Originating in the early 19th century, they were first created by monks from the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, who sold them to sustain themselves after the dissolution of monasteries in Portugal. The recipe was passed to the Pastéis de Belém Factory in 1837, where it has been closely guarded ever since. Unlike the widely available pastéis de nata, Pastéis de Belém are distinguished by their unique preparation and flavor, making them a culinary symbol of Lisbon and a must-try for visitors.
The pastries are baked fresh throughout the day, with thousands produced daily to meet demand from locals and tourists alike. Served warm with a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar, they embody the richness of Portuguese tradition and hospitality. The factory itself, located near the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, has become a landmark, with its tiled interiors and bustling atmosphere reflecting the enduring popularity of these custard tarts. Pastéis de Belém remain a delicious link between Lisbon’s history and its vibrant present.
See more at Pastel de nata - Wikipedia.
Photograph by Ocdp, distributed under a CC-BY 1.0 license.

Exterior of the Jerónimos Monastery
The exterior of the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, a uniquely Portuguese style that flourished during the Age of Discoveries.

Constructed in the early 16th century under the patronage of King Manuel I, the monastery’s facade is richly decorated with maritime motifs, intricate carvings, and ornate stonework that symbolize Portugal’s global expansion. Its long limestone frontage stretches along the Belém district, with elaborate portals, arched windows, and sculptural details that blend Gothic and Renaissance influences. The south portal, designed by João de Castilho, is particularly striking, featuring statues of saints, apostles, and the royal family framed by delicate tracery.
The grandeur of the exterior reflects both religious devotion and national pride, as the monastery was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India and to serve as a spiritual haven for sailors. The building’s scale and ornamentation make it one of Lisbon’s most impressive landmarks, harmonizing with nearby monuments such as the Belém Tower. Its imposing presence along the Tagus River continues to captivate visitors, offering a vivid reminder of Portugal’s golden age of exploration and artistic achievement.
See more at Jerónimos Monastery - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Interior of the Jerónimos Monastery
The interior of the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon is a stunning example of Manueline architecture, blending Gothic and Renaissance elements into a uniquely Portuguese style.

The church of Santa Maria de Belém, which forms the centerpiece of the monastery, is notable for its vast nave supported by slender, intricately carved columns that rise to ribbed vaults, creating an impression of both grandeur and lightness. The detailing on the stonework includes maritime motifs such as ropes and spheres, reflecting Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. The choir and transept are equally ornate, with sculptural decoration that emphasizes the richness of the design.
Within the monastery, several chapels and tombs add to its historical and cultural significance. The most famous are the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões, two of Portugal’s greatest figures, which rest inside the church. The cloisters are another highlight, with delicate arches, carved balustrades, and serene courtyards that invite contemplation. Together, the interior spaces of the Jerónimos Monastery embody both spiritual devotion and national pride, offering visitors a glimpse into Portugal’s golden age of exploration and artistry.
See more at Jerónimos Monastery - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Monument of the Discoveries
The Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) in Lisbon is a striking landmark that commemorates Portugal’s Age of Exploration.

Located on the northern bank of the Tagus River in Belém, it was originally built in 1940 for the Portuguese World Exhibition and later reconstructed in 1960 to mark the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator. Designed by architect José Ângelo Cottinelli Telmo and sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida, the monument takes the form of a stylized ship’s prow, with Prince Henry at the front holding a caravel. Behind him are statues of explorers, monarchs, cartographers, and missionaries who played key roles in Portugal’s maritime expansion.
The monument stands 52 meters tall and is adorned with detailed sculptures that symbolize Portugal’s pioneering spirit during the 15th and 16th centuries. Inside, visitors can explore exhibitions and ascend to the viewing platform at the top, which offers panoramic views of Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Tagus River. Together with nearby landmarks such as the Belém Tower, the Monument of the Discoveries forms part of Lisbon’s cultural landscape, celebrating the nation’s history of exploration and its global legacy.
See more at Monument of the Discoveries - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Gerd Eichmann distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.

Belém Tower
Belém Tower, or Torre de Belém, is one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

Built between 1514 and 1520 under the reign of King Manuel I, the tower was designed by architect Francisco de Arruda as both a defensive fortress and a ceremonial gateway to the city. Constructed in the Manueline style, it features ornate maritime motifs such as ropes, armillary spheres, and crosses of the Order of Christ, reflecting Portugal’s seafaring heritage. Rising from the banks of the Tagus River, the tower’s distinctive limestone facade and battlements make it a striking landmark that has long welcomed sailors returning from voyages abroad.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Belém Tower played a crucial role in Lisbon’s defense system, guarding the entrance to the city’s harbor alongside the now-vanished fortress of Cascais. Over the centuries, it also served as a customs post, a prison, and even a lighthouse. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its historical significance and artistry. Visitors can explore its terraces, watchtowers, and interior chambers, while enjoying sweeping views of the river and the surrounding Belém district.
See more at Belém Tower - Wikipedia.
Photographs by Vitor Oliveira distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Hotels Map

Where to Eat in Lisbon

Restaurants Map

🍽️ Local Culinary Traditions

🥖	Bread Broa de milho - Corn bread often served with grilled sardines Pão alentejano - Rustic wheat bread, widely eaten in Lisbon with soups and stews
🍲	Soups Caldo verde - Traditional soup made with kale, potatoes, and chouriço Sopa de peixe - Fish soup flavored with tomato, garlic, and herbs
🦞	Seafood Arroz de marisco - Rich rice dish with shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab 🏅 Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato - Clams cooked with garlic, olive oil, and cilantro
🐟	Fish Dishes Sardinhas assadas - Grilled sardines, especially popular during Lisbon’s Santo António festivities Bacalhau à Brás - Shredded cod with fried potatoes, onions, and scrambled eggs Peixe grelhado - Freshly grilled fish, often sea bream or mackerel, seasoned simply with olive oil and salt
🍗	Meat Dishes Bife à Portuguesa - Steak topped with ham and garlic sauce, served with fried potatoes Cozido à Portuguesa - Hearty boiled dish with assorted meats, sausages, and vegetables Bifana - Pork sandwich seasoned with garlic and spices, a popular street food
🍰	Sweets 🏅 Pastel de Nata - Lisbon’s famous custard tart, baked with flaky pastry Travesseiros de Sintra - Puff pastry filled with almond and egg cream, often enjoyed in Lisbon cafés Arroz doce - Creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and lemon
🍷	Wine Vinho Verde - Light, slightly sparkling wine often paired with seafood Vinho do Porto - Fortified wine, widely enjoyed as a dessert drink Lisboa regional wines - Reds and whites from vineyards around Lisbon, known for their balance and freshness