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 Belém, the iconic 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 in 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 the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Castelo de S. Jorge, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, LX Factory, and Jerónimos Monastery.

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 located in Lisbon, Portugal, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 7.21 miles (11.61 km) away from Lisbon. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Belém Tower is located.

If you’re already in Lisbon, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the fort. The exact address of the attraction is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Belém Tower. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Belém Tower and other top attractions in Lisbon at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Belém Tower!

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a trip to Belém Tower, one of the most iconic attractions in Portugal drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique fort, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Belém Tower starting from 10 EUR below.

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.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lisbon and top attractions like Belém Tower with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Belém Tower and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Lisbon, Portugal, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind fort in Portugal.

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Belém Tower becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 19 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Portugal's rental car companies 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.

For budget-conscious travelers, OK Mobility currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 4.41 EUR per day or 30.88 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Rua Da Guiné, 24, 2685-337 in Lisbon, this rental option ensures you can explore Portugal's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Belém Tower just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Lisbon.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Belém Tower below.

Lisbon offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. 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 Padrão dos Descobrimentos.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Lisbon, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 99,112 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. This is just like Praça do Comércio, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4 out of 5 stars among 80,896 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.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This monument and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 51,978 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Padrão dos Descobrimentos creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

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