Belém, Lisbon: what to do, where to eat and local tips

Tucked along the banks of the Tagus, Belém is one of Lisbon’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods, steeped in stories from the Age of Discoveries. For many, it’s the best of both worlds: close to the city centre but peaceful, with riverside parks, historic monuments and some of Lisbon’s finest pastries right on your doorstep. And yes, to clear things up, Belém is part of Lisbon—sitting just west of the city’s centre, full of both grand UNESCO sites and hidden spots to explore. 

If you’re planning what to do in Belém, Lisbon, or figuring out just how much time you’ll need, you’ll probably want at least half a day, though no one would blame you for lingering longer.

Is Belém in Lisbon worth visiting?

Berthold Werner, CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia commons

Belém draws people in for good reason. Once the departure point for Portugal’s legendary explorers, it’s a neighbourhood that feels like a living museum, yet without the city rush. To really see the highlights, allow at least four hours. You could spend a whole day if art, riverside strolls, and custard tarts tempt you. Even on a short trip, Belém’s wide-open waterfront and handsome old squares are a top-tier highlight for both first-timers and returning Lisbon fans.

What to see in Belém

Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

Freepik

One of Lisbon’s most iconic spots—a 16th-century stronghold with fairytale turrets perched on the river. It’s great for photos, and the views from the top give you a feel of how seafarers must have felt setting out. Belém Tower tickets cost €15 and you can visit it from Tuesday to Sunday.

Jerónimos Monastery

Unsplash

Just a short stroll away, this vast, ornate monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautifully sculpted cloisters and the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Expect queues—arrive early if you can. Tickets to the monastery cost €18 for adults, and there are discounts available for students and seniors. 

Monument to the Discoveries

Alvesgaspar, CC BY-SA 3.0 Wikimedia commons

This colossal stone monument juts out into the Tagus. Climb up for a brilliant view over the river, or take in the mosaic of the world map at its base. It is open to the public every day from 10 am to 7 pm, with tickets starting at €5 per adult.

MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology)

Nan Palmero from San Antonio, TX, USA, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia commons

Hugging the riverfront, MAAT is known for its futuristic curves and mix of exhibitions. It's definitely worth popping inside or at least walking over its rooftop terrace. It is open from Wednesday to Monday, from  10 am to 7 pm, and tickets cost €11 for adults.

Things to do in Belém

Suicasmo, CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia commons

Even beyond the major sights, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. If you like a freebie, even just strolling the riverside, admiring tilework, and browsing the Saturday street market, costs you nothing.

• Relax in the Praça do Império Gardens, a good spot for a picnic or a breather in the shade.
• Visit the Tropical Botanical Garden just behind the monastery. It’s surprisingly tranquil and full of exotic plants.
• Walk or cycle along the riverfront—there’s a long stretch that’s perfect for people-watching or sunset photos.
• Wander through Doca de Santo Amaro marina, with its converted warehouses and riverside cafes.
• Take in contemporary art at the Berardo Collection Museum or catch an event at the CCB (Belém Cultural Centre).
• For something different, drop by the quirky Pharmacy Museum to browse everything from ancient apothecary jars to old medical gadgets.

Pastel de nata (custard tart)

Freepik

For one of the best things to do in Lisbon, try the famous Belém custard tart. The legendary Pastéis de Belém on Rua de Belém is world famous and always draws a queue, with the pastry still made using a secret recipe dating back centuries. For a slightly quieter spot, try Manteigaria, whose silky, caramel-topped tarts are strong contenders. Watch the pastry chefs at work through the glass kitchen at Pastéis de Belém and see exactly how the city’s iconic custard tarts are made.

Shopping in Belém

TJ DeGroat, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia commons

Shopping in Belém is less about big-name brands and more about artisan finds and local treats. You’ll spot quirky little gift shops, stalls selling Portuguese ceramics, and of course, bakeries galore. 

At the creative LxMarket, held most Sundays at LX Factory just over the line from Belém, you’ll find a colourful trove of vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, crafts, vinyl records, and plenty of local art. 

Near the museums, you’ll spot a handful of artisan boutiques selling stationery, contemporary jewellery and decor from up-and-coming designers.  Around the main avenues, look out for small galleries and artisan stores tucked between cafes and museums, ideal for picking up a piece of Portuguese azulejo tile as a memento. There's also a weekend flea market outside the Belém Cultural Centre from time to time, where you might snag anything from quirky antiques to handcrafted souvenirs.

Where to eat in Belém, Lisbon

Pexels

Belém is brilliant for foodies and not just those with a sweet tooth. For lunch, riverside places serve up grilled sardines, octopus salad, or the classic bacalhau. More inventive bistros have cropped up along Rua de Belém in recent years, doing clever things with Portuguese staples.

O Prado
A traditional spot celebrating the best of Portuguese seasonal produce. Expect rustic sharing plates like grilled sardines, octopus, and greens, all sourced from local farms.

Taberna dos Ferreiros
Just off the main drag, this understated favourite does honest, traditional petiscos—think pica-pau (spiced beef), salt cod fritters, and chouriço, served in a warm, welcoming setting. It’s popular with locals and tends to fill up at weekends.

Nunes Real Marisqueira
When you’re after proper seafood, Nunes is the real deal. The crab, prawns, clams, and lobster are always fresh and impeccably cooked. It’s a bit pricier than some, but well worth it for a proper shellfish blowout.

SUD Lisboa Terrazza
For sunset drinks and Mediterranean-inspired plates with a view, SUD is a winner. Positioned right on the river, it draws a chic crowd for everything from brunch to dinner, offering dishes like tuna tartare, grilled sea bass, and satisfying risottos. There’s a rooftop terrace for when the weather’s good, too.

Free things on Sundays and holidays

Vitor Oliveira from Torres Vedras, PORTUGAL, CC BY-SA 2.0 Wikimedia commons

If you’re around on a Sunday or public holiday, check which museums are free to enter for Lisbon residents—plenty, including the National Coach Museum, Belém Tower, Ajuda National Palace and the Jerónimos Monastery.

How to get to Belém from Lisbon 

Pixabay

Located just five kilometres from the centre of Lisbon, getting to Belém is straightforward.

• By tram: Take tram 15 from Praça da Figueira or Praça do Comércio, which rattles you right into the heart of Belém.
• By train: You can also jump on the train from Cais do Sodré towards Cascais—Belém is a couple of stops along, and the ride skirts the river.
• By bus: Several bus routes (like the 714 or 728) connect central Lisbon to Belém.
• On foot or by bike: If you’re up for a longer walk or cycle, the riverside path makes for a scenic journey.
• By car: Easy enough, though parking can be tight on weekdays.

Living in Lisbon

If you’re considering making a move, living in Lisbon means being spoilt for neighbourhood choice. Belém has a more residential, chilled feel, but you can still soak up the city’s cultural riches every day. It’s peaceful here, with waterfront walks and some of the city’s best green spaces on tap.

• Property for sale in Lisbon
• Long-term rentals in Lisbon
• Holiday rentals in Lisbon