0
0
Belem, a coastal district of Lisbon, is a must-see for anyone who visits the Portuguese capital. With not one but two UNESCO World Heritage sites, it makes for the ideal place to spend at least half a day. Belem is easily accessed by taking Tram 15 from Comercio Square in the heart of Lisbon. The journey usually takes just over thirty minutes. There are a number of reasons to visit Belem. It has a mix of some of the city‘s most iconic landmarks and tourists attractions. Belem has magnificent gardens and picturesque scenery. You will also be able to indulge in some of the best Pasteis de Nata in all of Portugal. During your time in Lisbon, it should be a matter of when and not if you visit Belem, and it is certain to be one of the key highlights of your stay in the city.
1. Jeronimos Monastery
It was Jeronimos Monastery that initially persuaded me to visit Belem. Upon arrival, I quickly realised I had completely underestimated both its immense beauty and size. I couldn’t help but wonder, why is this monastery not spoken about more? After all, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was declared a National Monument in 1907. Opened in 1495, the monastery was once home to the Order of Saint Jerome. It has since become open to the public and remains one of Lisbon’s best representations of Gothic architecture. The structure, the artwork, both inside and out, rival anything of its kind that I had seen before. Entrance to the main chapel is free, but if you wish to enter the monastery it will cost you €7.
2. Belem Tower
The second of the UNESCO World Heritage sites is Belem Tower. Located on the banks of the Tagus River, Belem Tower played a key role during the Age of Discoveries. It was first built to defend Lisbon from attackers and was later converted into a lighthouse and then a customs house. Belem Tower is widely regarded as Lisbon’s most popular tourist attraction. A massive amount of tourists enter the tower on a daily basis and even more come for a picture of the outside. For this reason, expect a bit of a wait to get in and once in, the tower can be quite cramped. From the top though, you get excellent views of the Tagus River and the surrounding Belem. Tickets can be bought for €6. However, a combination ticket for both Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery will cost €13.
3. Pasteis De Belem
Portugal’s famous custard tart can be found everywhere you look in Lisbon. It feels like every street typically has a local bakery which sells them. That is why it might initially be seen as offputting to brave the queue for Pasteis De Belem. The line of hungry customers goes down the street, all waiting to get a taste of these genuine delights. Is it worth it? Absolutely! You may be able to find Pasteis de Nata with ease in Lisbon, however, none compare to Pasteis De Belem (With the possible exception of Mantegaria). To this day Pasteis De Belem still use the nearly 200-year-old recipe they purchased from the monks at Jeronimos Monastery. To get a taste of that flaky pastry and creamy, custardy inside is worth any necessary amount of waiting time.
4. Monument To The Discoveries
Throughout history, the Portuguese have been renowned for being great explorers. Henry the Navigator is at the forefront of the structure and 16 further figures are along each side. It is a celebration to those who departed from the river to explore and trade with India, the Far East and South America. It is an incredibly impressive and imposing sculpture, one with enormous historical significance to the country you are standing in. After all, it was these famed explorers who played a significant part in Portugal becoming one of the world‘s superpowers back in the 1400s. Visitors are able to enter for €4. Upon entering, viewers can learn about the history of Lisbon before making their way to the viewing platform. From the platform, you get excellent views of the Tagus River and both Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.
5. Jardim Botânico Tropical
More often than not, the sun will be shining when you visit Belem. After all, Portugal isn’t exactly known to have wind and rain. Where better to appreciate this sunny day than the Jardim Botanico Tropical or the Tropical Botanic Gardens? For just €2 you gain access to one of Lisbon’s largest and most serene gardens. They are located on the property of Palacio dos Condes da Calheta, just behind both Jeronimos Monastery and Pasteis De Belem. With over 600 different types of floral species, the garden is an excellent place to explore for any botany experts. For those merely looking to enjoy the glorious weather in a serene setting the garden has many areas for relaxation and makes for a very enjoyable stroll.
To discover more about Lisbon, including the Best Local Eats the city has to offer, click here.
Like It? Pin It!
Average Rating