Padrão dos Descobrimentos travel guide

The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, also known as the Monument to the Discoveries, is a striking monument located in the Belem district of Lisbon. This iconic structure was erected in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, a central figure in Portugal's Age of Discovery.

The monument's design, initiated by Portuguese architect José Ângelo Cottinelli Telmo and completed by sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida, is a tribute to Portugal's maritime exploration legacy. It features a 52-meter high slab of concrete, shaped like the prow of a ship. On its sides are the statues of 33 figures from the Age of Discovery, including explorers, cartographers, artists, scientists, and missionaries.

The original monument was initially made from perishable materials for the 1940 Portuguese World Exhibition. However, due to its popularity, a permanent version was later constructed and it has since become one of Lisbon's most visited landmarks. Today, visitors can also climb to the top of the monument for a panoramic view of the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon.

The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, or Monument to the Discoveries, holds a commanding presence on the Lisbon waterfront with its soaring height of 52 meters. Unique in its design, this monument is shaped like a ship's prow, symbolizing the Age of Discoveries. The monument features 33 figures from the era, each intricately carved and standing at a notable 9 meters tall. These figures include notable Portuguese explorers, monarchs, cartographers, and missionaries, with Henry the Navigator at the forefront.

The monument's base houses a compass rose, gifted by the Republic of South Africa, embedded in marble with a detailed map of the world at its center. It highlights the routes of various Portuguese explorers during the 15th and 16th centuries. Above, an accessible viewing platform offers panoramic views of the Tagus River and Belém district. The interior of the monument hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it not only a tribute to Portugal’s glorious past but also a space for contemporary expression. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos encapsulates the spirit of exploration and discovery, making it a unique monument in the heart of Lisbon.

Located in Belém, the iconic Padrão dos Descobrimentos 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, 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!

Padrão dos Descobrimentos 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 6.77 miles (10.9 km) away from Lisbon. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Padrão dos Descobrimentos is located.

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

You can also rent a car and drive to Padrão dos Descobrimentos. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Padrão dos Descobrimentos 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 Padrão dos Descobrimentos!

The best time to explore Padrão dos Descobrimentos is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor exploration. Springtime is punctuated with beautiful blossoms adorning the city, while fall provides a stunning backdrop of changing leaves. Moreover, these off-peak periods have fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience at the monument. On Tuesdays and Sundays, you can coincide your visit with Belém's bustling market, offering a delightful array of local produce and traditional crafts. As the monument is popular among tourists, it's suggested to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest times. In summer, consider an evening visit to enjoy the monument's illumination, adding an enchanting dimension to its architectural beauty. Regardless of when you visit, the panoramic view from the top is a year-round highlight.

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a trip to Padrão dos Descobrimentos, 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 monument, 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 Padrão dos Descobrimentos starting from 13 EUR below.

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

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Padrão dos Descobrimentos 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 Padrão dos Descobrimentos 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 Padrão dos Descobrimentos 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.