The Torre de Belém
For over five centuries, the Belém Tower has majestically watched over the banks of the Tagus River in Lisbon. A masterpiece of Manueline architecture, this iconic UNESCO World Heritage monument is an absolute must-see during your visit. With the Lisbon Card, entry is free and you get skip-the-line access!
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Unique architecture blending Gothic and Renaissance, a symbol of the Age of Discovery.
Entry included in the pass + skip-the-line access to avoid long queues.
Terrace at the top offering a spectacular view of the Tagus River and the Belém district.
Ground floor accessible for reduced mobility. Upper floors via a spiral staircase (93 steps).
Why visit the Torre de Belém?
A strong symbol of Lisbon, the Torre de Belém is one of the must-see monuments in the Portuguese capital. Built between 1514 and 1519 at the initiative of King Manuel I, it once served as a gateway to the city and ensured its defense against invaders thanks to its strategic position on the Tagus.
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983, the tower represents an important part of Portugal's history and the Age of Discovery. Along with the Jerónimos Monastery, they were the two major monuments of this glorious period.
If you are passionate about architecture or history, the Torre de Belém will enchant you. But even without that, this monument is worth a visit if only to admire the view of the Portuguese capital from its panoramic terrace.
An architecture of rare beauty
Despite its defensive appearance, the architecture of the Torre de Belém was meticulously crafted. Its construction was entrusted to Francisco de Arruda, a renowned architect who enhanced the facade through the Manueline style, named directly after King Manuel I.
Manueline art is essentially inspired by Gothic design, but Renaissance touches are clearly visible on the tower, particularly on its loggia. The facades are decorated with knots, ropes, and coats of arms. Passing through the main entrance, you will notice a beautiful armillary sphere, an emblematic motif of the Manueline style.
Throughout the visit, you will discover other representative elements of this elegant style: the cross of the Order of Christ, the statue of the Virgin and Child, as well as the king's shield. Do not miss the curious rhinoceros gargoyle on the western facade: the first rhinoceros to arrive in Europe landed in Portugal in 1513, coming from India! The tower spans 5 levels and measures 35 meters in height including the terrace.
What to see in the Torre de Belém?
The tower consists of 2 main sections: the tower itself and the Bastion. The latter sits below, behind the drawbridge. It once housed all the artillery used to defend the city, including 17 rather impressive cannons.
The interior of the site is dotted with different rooms, some of which are particularly worth a look:
- The Governor's Chamber: stands out for its basin installed in the center. This system was used to collect rainwater, which was then used to meet the building's needs.
- The King's Room: on the floor just above, with its magnificent loggia from which you will have a superb view of the Tagus estuary.
- The Audience Room: the place where the governors passed their judgments after listening to the complaints of their subjects.
- The Chapel: before accessing the terrace, stop in this room where important information regarding the history of the monument is kept.
- The panoramic terrace: the highlight of the show with an extraordinary view of Lisbon!
The terrace: an exceptional panorama
The highlight of the show: the panoramic terrace of the Torre de Belém. In ancient times, it hosted the guards who watched for invaders in the distance. Now, it is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Lisbon.
From this spot, you will have an extraordinary picture before your eyes with the banks of the Tagus, the Belém district, and the Jerónimos Monastery. Below, admire how the tower seems to float on the water. The experience will be even more magical if you visit at sunset.
Entrance fee to the Torre de Belém
⚠️ Closed on Mondays and public holidays (January 1st, Easter, May 1st, June 13th, December 25th)
Lisbon Card: the best way to visit the Torre de Belém!
To fully enjoy your visit to the Torre de Belém and Lisbon in general, consider getting a Lisbon Card. This official city pass allows you to access many of the city's sites for free (51 sites in total), while simplifying your travel.
With the Lisbon Card, entry to the Torre de Belém is 100% free (saving €15 per person). You also get skip-the-line access to avoid long waiting times, which is especially appreciable in high season.
Among the other included activities, you will also enjoy free entry to the Jerónimos Monastery, the National Tile Museum, the Monument to the Discoveries, and many more.
| Duration | Adults | Children |
|---|---|---|
| 24 hours | €31 | €21 |
| 48 hours | €51 | €28 |
| 72 hours | €62 | €35 |
This card also offers free and unlimited access to public transport in the capital: buses, metro, trams, and funiculars. You can also take the famous tram 15E for free to reach Belém and the Santa Justa lift.
Furthermore, you can easily visit Sintra and Cascais by taking the trains that are also included in the pass, and enjoy additional discounts in many restaurants and shops.
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Opening hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). Closed on Mondays and public holidays (January 1st, Easter, May 1st, June 13th, December 25th).
Visit duration
Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour to explore the tower. Best time: in the morning before 11:00 AM or late afternoon after 4:00 PM to avoid the crowds. With the Lisbon Card, enjoy skip-the-line access!
How to get there
Take tram 15E from Praça Figueira to the Lg. Princesa stop. Bus lines 714, 727, 728, 729, 751. Cascais train, Belém stop. All transport is free with the Lisbon Card.
Photo tips
Don't forget your camera! The tower's terrace offers one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Lisbon. For magical photos, opt for a sunset visit.
Good to know
Access to the top is via a narrow spiral staircase. Wear comfortable shoes. The tower attracts a lot of people: book in advance or come early in the morning.
Address
Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal. The tower is located on the banks of the Tagus River, in the Belém district, about 6 km from the historic center of Lisbon.
History of the Torre de Belém
The Torre de Belém was built between 1514 and 1519 at the initiative of King Manuel I. Upon its completion, it was named Torre de São Vicente in honor of Lisbon's patron saint. It was only later that it took its official name.
It served as a gateway to the city and ensured its defense against potential invaders. The tower also participated in the protection of the Jerónimos Monastery. Together, they constituted the two major monuments of the Age of Discovery.
After its key role in securing the city, it was transformed into a prison in the 16th century following the Spanish invasion. Over the centuries, the tower also served as a lighthouse and a barracks. Then, it was modified during the reign of Napoleon, before regaining its original structure in 1845.
It was in 1983 that its beauty was truly highlighted, the year it received UNESCO recognition as a World Heritage site. Remarkable fact: the Torre de Belém is miraculously standing; the terrible earthquake of 1755 displaced it without destroying it!
Access
How to get to the Torre de Belém?
Tram
Take line 15E from Praça da Figueira (Baixa district) and get off at the Lg. Princesa stop. Journey of about 20-25 min.
Bus
5 bus lines serve the district: 714, 727, 728, 729 and 751. Stop near the tower, with regular service.
Train
Cascais line from Cais do Sodré station. Get off at the Belém stop, then allow about 15 minutes of walking to the tower.
Good to know: No metro line serves the Belém district. You can also rent a car (from €8/day) and park in the paid parking lots nearby. The tower is located about 6 km from the historic center, or a 20-25 min drive via Av. Brasília.
Nearby
What to do around the Torre de Belém?
Belém is a district full of activities that you can easily explore on foot. Historical monuments, museums, walks, restaurants... There is plenty to do in a day!
Jerónimos Monastery
A jewel of Manueline architecture listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It takes you back in time to discover Portugal's maritime history.
Monument to the Discoveries
Monument dedicated to the great Portuguese explorers. Museum accessible for €5, viewpoint for €10. Included with the Lisbon Card!
Pastéis de Belém
The famous bakery selling authentic Portuguese custard tarts since 1837. The line is often long, but the taste is worth it!
Tagus River Cruise
Take advantage of your proximity to the river for a boat ride. The dock is just minutes from the tower.
MAAT
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is housed in a futuristic building by the river. Ideal for contemporary art lovers.
Walk along the Tagus
Right outside the tower, walk or cycle along the river, or sit facing the water to enjoy the scenery.
Ready to explore the Torre de Belém?
The Torre de Belém remains undoubtedly a must-see in Lisbon, especially for a first trip. With the Lisbon Card, enjoy free entry + skip-the-line + unlimited transport!
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