Live Your Best Lives
Visit the Belém Tower's iconic structure, explore its historical rooms, climb to the top for panoramic views of the Tagus River, and take photos of the stunning architecture. Don't forget to enjoy a walk along the nearby riverfront.
The Belém Tower is one of Portugal's oldest buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Lisbon, Portugal, it stands on the north bank of the Tagus River and is one of the two famous towers on the shores of Belém.
The Belém Tower has witnessed the glorious history of Portugal. Its unique geographical location and architectural style attract tourists from all over the world every year. During the Age of Exploration, the Belém Tower was the starting point for navigators.
The Belém Tower was built between 1514 and 1520 during the reign of King Manuel I. In 1983, it was listed as a World Heritage Site.
Climate: Mediterranean climate.
The Mediterranean climate is a type of climate characterized by hot, dry summers, mild and rainy winters, and alternating periods of heat and rain.
Best time to travel: All seasons
Recommended attractions: Jerónimos Monastery, Ajuda Palace
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Regular ticket: 6 euros for adults
Half-price ticket: Seniors aged 65 and above, persons with disabilities, and two minors accompanied by an adult
Free admission: First Monday of every month and for children under 12 years old
10:00-17:30; Last admission: 17:00 (Tuesday-Sunday, October 1st - April 30th of the following year) 10:00-18:30; Last admission: 17:00 (Tuesday-Sunday, May 2nd - September 30th)
Note: Mondays, January 1st, May 1st, Easter and Christmas are closed.
Belém Tower, built in the early 16th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal's most iconic landmarks. Originally constructed as a fortress to protect the entrance to the port of Lisbon, it symbolizes Portugal's Age of Exploration and maritime history.
Located in the Belém district of Lisbon, the tower is easily accessible by tram (Line 15), bus, or a short walk from nearby attractions. The closest metro station is Cais do Sodré, with additional connections to buses and trams.
Belém Tower is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons, especially on weekdays, are the best times to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is around €6. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance for convenience. Discounts are available for students and seniors.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets online up to a few days before your visit.
About 1 hour is sufficient to explore the tower, but you may want to spend extra time enjoying the views and the surrounding area.
The most notable features are the Tower's main structure, the terraces, the view from the top, and the impressive defensive architecture. The cannon on the outer walls is also a popular photo spot.
Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, and German. Guided tours can be arranged on-site or booked in advance.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the tower, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Tagus River, Lisbon, and the surrounding Belém district. The exterior of the tower also offers great photo opportunities.
Start with the ground level and explore the rooms and exhibits, then make your way up to the top for panoramic views. Be sure to spend time outside taking photos of the tower and its surroundings.
Belém Tower does not offer night visits, but it is beautifully illuminated at night. Special tours may be available during specific events, so check ahead for any announcements.
It can be quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays.
There are toilets, a small gift shop, and vending machines nearby. For more food options, you can visit the cafes in the Belém area.
Belém Tower has limited accessibility due to its historic structure. While there are ramps for easier access to the lower levels, the upper floors may not be suitable for visitors with mobility impairments.
Both cash and card payments are accepted for entrance tickets, gift shop purchases, and food. Mobile payments are also widely accepted.
There are a number of cafés and restaurants nearby, including the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, where you can try traditional Portuguese custard tarts.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food is also offered in some local establishments around the Belém area.
There are several hotels near Belém Tower, including the Jerónimos 8 and Altis Belém Hotel & Spa, both offering easy access to the tower and the surrounding attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Cultural Center, and the Monument to the Discoveries. All of these can be easily combined in a day trip.
The gift shop at Belém Tower offers a range of souvenirs, including postcards, books, and replicas of the tower. Traditional Portuguese products like ceramics and cork items are also popular souvenirs in the area.
After visiting Belém Tower, you can take the tram or bus to central Lisbon. The tram 15 and bus 728 are popular routes connecting Belém to downtown Lisbon.
