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On a journey of discovery in Bélem
Posted on January 21, 2023
Bélem is a historic district in Lisbon and can be found along the Tagus River! In the district you will find many things from the time of explorer Vasco da Gama. But the district has more to offer, go on a journey of discovery in Bélem!
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
Travel from the center to Bélem by metro or bus. We recommend that you go to the Jerónimos Monastery first. The line can be quite long. Skip-the-line tickets are available online. Once in the monastery, be surprised by the beautifully decorated pillars and the beautiful light. The 16th century monastery was built in memory of explorer Vasco da Gama. In our opinion, a real must visit, because there is indeed plenty to discover and see!
Spot wildlife
Between the monastery and the other highlight of Bélem; Wildlife can be spotted in the Tower of Belém! Namely the street art artwork 'the big racoon' by artist Bordalo II. This raccoon is made from scrap waste. Special works by Bordalo II can be found in various places in Lisbon.
Spot wildlife
Continue to the beautiful Torre Bélem. The tower was built in 1515 and is very important to many Portuguese. The tower is located on the spot where explorer Vasco da Gama started his voyage of discovery. With the Lisboa card you can visit the tower for free. Is there a long line in front of the tower and you don't have much time? Then we recommend admiring the tower from the mainland. Even if you have difficulty walking, we recommend not to enter the tower. Torre Belém does not have an elevator, but it does have a lot of steps.
Confeitaira de Belem
Wandering around makes you hungry! Find a spot on the terrace of Confeitaira Nacional Bélem and enjoy the view of the Tagus River and, more importantly, delicious pastel de natas and other sweets. Do not confuse this café on the Tagus with Pasteis de Bélem where you can taste the one and only pastels de Bélem. The bakery can be found near the monastery.
Pont e de 25 April & Estátuo do Cristo
When you walk around Bélem you will often see the impressive Ponte de 25 April in the background! This bridge is very similar to the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco! There is another copy nearby, namely the Christ statue, as you probably know it from Rio de Janeiro! A nice mix of influences !
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Walk from Confeitaira Nacional Bélem along the Tagus to Padrão dos Descobrimentos. This is a monument in honor of the most important Portuguese sailors. These sailors are also depicted on the monument. The monument is accessible and via an elevator you can reach the roof of the building, where you have a beautiful view of the Tagus and the harbor.
LX Factory
Walk from the monument along the Tagus or via the pleasant streets of Bélem towards the LX Factory. The LX Factory consists of concept stores, restaurants and studios. We had a tasty Italian snack at Messe Pizzeria after which we continued our way to our hotel.
