Awesome 10 Things To Do In Belém, Beautiful Lisbon
Belém is located west of the centre of Lisbon and is famous for being the location where the Portuguese explorers departed. The area is steeped in history and is a cultural centre of Lisbon. A visit to Lisbon is not complete without visiting Belém. Below are Activities In Portugal 10 Things To Do In Belém.
Things To Do In Belém
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Pastéis de Belém
A visit to Belém is not complete without a visit to the Pastéis de Belém, the oldest bakery in the area. This is where the famous Portuguese custard cakes were created and the secret recipe has been fiercely guarded since 1847. Head into the shop and purchase the delicious cake, but expect a very long line!
Pastéis de Belém is located at Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, 1300-085 Lisboa, Portugal
https://pasteisdebelem.pt/en/
Tropical Botanical Garden
The Tropical Botanical Garden has recently reopened after being remodelled. The garden has 500 perennial species, 4000 species of tropical plants and the garden was created in 1906. The garden is a welcome break from the summer sun, take a rest in this tranquil garden.
The Tropical Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico Tropical) is located at Largo dos Jerónimos, 1400-209 Lisboa, Portugal
The Tropical Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico Tropical) is located at Largo dos Jerónimos, 1400-209 Lisboa, Portugal
Museu Coleção Berardo
Museu Coleção Berardo is the museum of modern and contemporary art in Belém. José Berardo is one of the wealthiest people in Portugal and in 2016 he agreed to loan his art to the gallery so that the Portuguese people and tourists could enjoy his collection.
The museum’s address is Praça do Império, 1449-003 Lisboa. You can visit their official website at www.museuberardo.pt.
Praça do Império
Praça do Império are the gardens outside of The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and in front of Museu Coleção Berardo. The gardens were born during the Portuguese World Exposition in the 40’s, it has beautiful hippocamp statues (seahorses) and fountains.
Marina
In Belém there are two marinas, Doca do Belem and Doca do Bom Sucesso. In both you can hire a yacht or catamaran for the day, here at Activities in Portugal we can arrange Lisbon Yacht Hire for you at a great price. Alternatively just enjoy the view and watch the yachts go out on the river.
Watch 10 Things To Do in Belem Below
Big Raccoon – Bordallo II
Artur Bordalo is a Portuguese graffiti artist based in Lisbon that makes outstanding street installations from recylced materials. The Big Raccoon was created in 2015 and sits magnificently on the side of a building in Belém. You can find Bordalo’s artwork all over the city and his studio is based in Beato.
Instagram account: @b0rdalo_ii
MAAT
MAAT is the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology and a recent addition to Belém. Built in 2016 it is now one of the most visited museums in the country. The building itself is futuristic in style, with smooth gliding edges. The roof serves as a view point with grassed area.
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is located at Av. Brasília, 1300-598 Lisboa, Portugal. You can visit their official website at www.maat.pt.
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is located at Av. Brasília, 1300-598 Lisboa, Portugal. You can visit their official website at www.maat.pt.
Torre de Belém
Torre de Belém is from the 16th-century and was the embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers, the tower was the ceremonial entry into Lisbon. The tower stands 30-metre and is four stories high. The Torre de Belém is classified a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower has a grisly history with many battle being fought in front of the tower and opposing troops being quartered in the towers dungeons. Today the Tower sits on the edge of the Tagus river providing stunning images of Lisbon. Visitors are permitted inside the tower.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a stunning piece of architecture, the monument celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Built in 1940 by the architect José Ângelo Cottinelli Telmo, originally the structure was temporary and only for the Portuguese World Exhibition but the monument was so popular that between 1958 and January 1960 the structure we see today was developed. Not only is the monument stunning but the flooring is equally a master peice. The compass rose is a 50-metre-diameter flooring dipicting the routes of the Portuguese sailing ships, it was gifted by the South African government.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos stands imposingly over Belem, The monastery is classified a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The existing structure dates from around 1495. The famous explorer Vasco De Gama and his men spent a night in the structure before their journey in 1497, when hey discovered the world. The monastery that we see today was started on the 6 January 1501 and completed 100 years later. The monastery is steeped in Portuguese history from the days when the Spanish king ruled Portugal, to its Independence, to todays Republic, in fact the Lisbon Treaty was signed on the 13 December 2007 by the EU members. The monastery costs 10 euros and is one of the top visitor attractions in Lisbon.
The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, also known as the Jerónimos Monastery, is located at Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal. You can visit their official website at www.mosteirojeronimos.gov.pt.
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Lisbon Weather
LISBOA WEATHERHow To Get To Lisbon
By Air ✈️
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
By Train 🚆
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
By Bus 🚌
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
When To Visit Lisbon?
What are the Best Months To Visit Lisbon?
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 1 Day
1️⃣ Visit Rossio Railway Station – Admire its stunning neo-Manueline architecture.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 2 Days
Day One – Exploring Lisbon
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
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Things to Know Before You Go
The Weather Can Be Unpredictable During Winter & Spring
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Written by Clara R.
“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”
