Jerónimos Monastery travel guide

The Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture, was commissioned in 1501 by King Manuel I of Portugal.

The monastery was established as a home for the Order of Saint Jerome, a religious order tasked with praying for the King’s eternal soul and providing spiritual guidance to sailors and explorers departing from the nearby port of Belém.

Construction of the monastery took over a century, spanning the reigns of several Portuguese monarchs. Funded by wealth from Portugal's global discoveries during the Age of Exploration, the monastery stands as a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.

In 1983, UNESCO officially recognised Jerónimos Monastery as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance. Today, it remains a proud symbol of Lisbon's rich history and architectural grandeur.

Jerónimos Monastery is a shining example of Manueline architecture, a Portuguese style that combines architectural elements from the Gothic and Renaissance periods, with distinctive maritime motifs. This is evident in the monastery's ornate façade, which features carved images of twisted ropes, sea monsters, and corals.

One of the most striking features of the monastery is the Church of Santa Maria, its grand interior characterized by a forest of delicately twisted columns, each one carved from a single block of stone. The church also houses the tombs of prominent Portuguese figures, including explorer Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões.

The monastery's two-story cloister, adorned with intricate sculptures depicting biblical scenes, is another highlight. Its design showcases the artistic mastery of the era, with each column uniquely carved with coils of rope, sea creatures, and plants. Lastly, the Refectory, with its beautiful azulejos (traditional ceramic tiles), echoes the monastery's maritime theme, making Jerónimos Monastery a truly unique testimony to Portugal's Age of Discovery.

Located in Belém, the iconic Jerónimos Monastery 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, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and LX Factory.

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!

Jerónimos Monastery 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 6.56 miles (10.56 km) away from Lisbon. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Jerónimos Monastery is located.

If you’re already in Lisbon, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the monastery. The exact address of the attraction is Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Jerónimos Monastery. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Jerónimos Monastery 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 Jerónimos Monastery!

The best time to explore Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal, is during the spring and autumn months of April, May, September, and October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm and tourist crowds are relatively thinner. These seasons offer an excellent opportunity to appreciate the architectural splendor of the Monastery without enduring the summer heat or winter chills. Notably, the Monastery hosts various special events, including concerts and exhibitions, which are often scheduled during these months, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid peak tourist hours, providing more leisurely exploration. For those looking to witness the Monastery bask in the ethereal glow of the setting sun, an evening visit is highly recommended. However, keep in mind that the Monastery closes at 6 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. In conclusion, timing your visit to coincide with favorable weather, lower crowd levels and special events is key to a memorable experience at Jerónimos Monastery.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lisbon and top attractions like Jerónimos Monastery with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Jerónimos Monastery 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 monastery in Portugal.

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Jerónimos Monastery 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 Jerónimos Monastery 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 Jerónimos Monastery 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, Belém Tower, and Castelo de S. Jorge.

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 Belém Tower. This is just like Praça do Comércio, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 83,980 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this fort is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

Castelo de S. Jorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This museum and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 80,896 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Castelo de S. Jorge creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

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