Belém Tower travel guide

The illustrious Belém Tower, also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, stands as a testament to Portugal's Age of Discovery. Erected between 1514 and 1520, the fortification served as both a defense system and ceremonial gateway to Lisbon.

Commissioned by King Manuel I, the tower was envisioned by the architect Francisco de Arruda, who lent his distinctive style to the structure's ornate façade, a fine example of Manueline architecture. It functioned as a fortress in the Tagus River, a strategic point for naval defense.

In the 19th century, Belém Tower was transformed into a political prison, reinforcing its historical significance. Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beacon of Portuguese cultural history, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Located in the dynamic Belém, the popular Belém Tower is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lisbon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Portugal.

Lisbon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisbon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lisbon and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Castelo de S. Jorge, Oceanário de Lisboa, Time Out Market Lisboa, and Padrão dos Descobrimentos.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisbon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisbon, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

Belém Tower is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lisbon, Portugal. If you're flying in, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 7.2 miles (11.6 km) away from Lisbon. From there, you can easily reach Belém Tower by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lisbon, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Belém Tower, which is located 4.8 miles (7.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Belém Tower, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Belém Tower!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Belém Tower and other top attractions in Lisbon than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Lisbon include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Belém Tower's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Belém Tower and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind fort in Portugal.

The best time to explore Belém Tower is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather in Lisbon is pleasantly mild, perfect for climbing the tower's heights and enjoying panoramic views. Additionally, the crowd levels are considerably lower than in the peak summer months, providing a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. If you visit in the spring, you'll also have the chance to see the nearby gardens in full bloom, adding to the overall beauty of the site. Similarly, fall visitors can enjoy the vibrant fall foliage. Some visitors may appreciate the local celebration of Portugal Day on 10th June, when the tower is often central to festivities. However, the tower can be quite busy during this public holiday. For a quieter visit, aim for weekday mornings when the doors first open. Regardless of the season, it's advised to check the opening times and possibly book your ticket in advance to avoid queues.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Belém Tower and Portugal's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Portugal cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lisbon and beyond.

Conveniently explore Belém Tower and plenty more captivating attractions in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Belém Tower and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lisbon has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Belém Tower below.

Aside from Belém Tower, Lisbon is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisbon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Praça do Comércio, Castelo de S. Jorge, and Oceanário de Lisboa.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Lisbon, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 100,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Praça do Comércio is 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisbon is Castelo de S. Jorge. Like Praça do Comércio, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 86,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

Oceanário de Lisboa is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This aquarium and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 86,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lisbon below.