Belém Tower: reviews, price and Exclusive Promo Code

+28
recos
4.6/5 5 reviews
Avenida da India Praça do Torre São Vicente de Belém, 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal
Avenida da India Praça do Torre São Vicente de Belém, 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal
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Tour de Belém
Tour de Bélém
Torre de Belém

Belém Tower at a glance

Commissioned in 1514 by King Manuel I to guard the harbor entrance of Lisbon, the elegant Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a defining symbol of the capital of Portugal. The delicate Manueline architectural style, which blends Renaissance, Orientalist, and Venetian influences, paired with the striking white stone, remains a highlight for visitors.

Designed by Francisco de Arruda, this citadel resembles the prow of a ship and once functioned as the residence for the harbor master. Originally built on an islet in the middle of the Tagus river, seismic activity and subsequent land reclamation projects have left it sitting near the shoreline. Before climbing the structure, look for its two distinct sections: the hexagonal bastion and the four-story tower above it.

The lower level features a casemate, representing a significant feat of military strategy for the early 16th century. This vaulted chamber could house two levels of artillery and up to 17 cannons. Notice the corners, which feature échauguettes (small square or cylindrical watchtowers) decorated with intricate carvings. Look closely to spot the first European stone carving of a rhinoceros, likely a nod to the animal gifted by Manuel I to the Pope.

The second section, standing 35 meters tall, includes three floors and a terrace with views over the Tagus and the nearby Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery). Decorated with stone-carved twisted ropes, the tower is guarded by statues of Saint Vincent and Saint Michael the Archangel. Travelers with limited mobility should note that the access to the terrace is via a steep spiral staircase. While the first floor served as the harbor master's quarters, the fourth floor houses a chapel adorned with the cross of the Order of Christ and an armillary sphere. If you have time on your way back, join the line nearby to try one of the best pastels de nata (custard tarts) in the city.

Priority entry from $7*Booking recommended
Exclusive Promo Code
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Opening hours

Open every day except Monday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM from October to April, and until 6:30 PM from May to September.
Hours are indicative and subject to change

*Information subject to change

Reviews of Belém Tower

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Summary of 5 reviews
4.6/5
Average rating
+28
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.6
As a couple
4.6
With friends
4.6

Avygeo ranking

#69
in the world
#66
in Europe
#2
in Portugal
#2
in Lisbon

A must-see

Belém Tower is a must when visiting Lisbon.
I didn't have the chance to go inside, but the exterior is already well worth the trip.
The monument is magnificent, especially right by the water.
I particularly enjoyed going there at the end of the day, with the beautiful light.
Ideal for a pleasant walk.
A must-see

10
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Exceptional site

Belém Tower is located in a truly magnificent setting. At sunset, the site is stunning. The walk all around is super pleasant and offers beautiful views. You can visit the inside, but I didn't do it because there were too many people. The exterior is enough, I think.

6
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A beautiful building from the outside

Along with the Monument to the Discoveries, this tower stands as a testament to the history of Portuguese exploration. It is a maritime bastion with amazing architecture, and it is beautiful to look at during sunset with the Tagus River in the background. I really enjoyed the walk along the footbridge at the base of the tower. On the other hand, the inside is not worth it. I waited to get in and there is not much to see, except for the terrace, but I think the view is prettier from down below.

6
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A surprising building

I didn't go inside, but just the view from the outside is worth the trip. This fortified tower, located on the edge of the river, seems to come out of nowhere because it is the only building of this style in this area. Walking along the Tagus while admiring it is very pleasant. In the past, it served as a gateway to the city and a defense system. Admission costs 6 euros.

2
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Nice spot

This white tower on the banks of the Tagus is iconic to Lisbon. The place is pleasant and beautiful to see, even without going inside (paid admission with a bit of a line).

2
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