Belém District and the Salazar Dictatorship Legacy - Private Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an insightful and exciting tour that rewinds Portugal into the 20th century, a century in which the country became one of the first republics in Europe, then was ruled by the ruthless dictator Salazar and only in 1974 regained freedom and democracy. We give the word to Belém quarter and its monuments, sculptures and unique places that have played and continue to play a crucial role in the country’s destinies.
Belém (Bethlehem) was the name given to the anchorage from which the ships of the Portuguese Maritime Discoveries departed. A hundred years ago, however, this was a grim industrial area. The turning point came with the Portuguese World Exhibition of 1940, a nationalist celebration not usually documented in touristic guides. This walk explores Belém taking the controversial event as the cornerstone of its transformation into what it is today. We will approach the main attractions from a different angle and also focus on places usually off the beaten track.
Available options
3 pm walking tour
3 hr Belém walking tour
10 am Lisbon walking tour
3 hr Belém walking tour
What's included
Private walking tour
Local professional guide
Professional photographer guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Belém area avatars from the Discoveries period to the 1940 Exhibition
2
Old Belém town (or what's left of it)
3
Stop 3
The facade and the interior spaces of the most lavish late Gothic Cathedral in Lisbon with insightful explanations on its historical and mystical meaning
4
This square was the hub and is the main heritage of the Portuguese World Exhibition. We do quick stops by the heraldic flower beds, the monumental fountain and the seahorses
5
Stop 5
We walk around and try to shed light on the the main icon of the 1940 exhibition, not forgetting the majestic wind rose that covers the pavement at its feet.
6
The Museum of Popular is a conundrum and a real oddity of Modernist Lisbon.
7
The other great monument of the Discoveries Age and the Restelo upper class neighborhood that developed after the 1940 Exhibition
What's not included
Food and drinks
The listed price does not include a parking fee, payable at the time of tour check-in.
Hotel pickup
Hotel drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
25 reviews
5★
23
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is smart casual
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Meeting point
Our meeting point is by the entrance of the station, under the big red letters - "Estação Fluvial" (River Station). This is opposite to the Belém Train Station, also near Museu dos Coches.
About Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm climate. With its charming streets, historic trams, and breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.
Top Attractions
Belém Tower
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century tower is an iconic symbol of Lisbon's Age of Discoveries.
Historical
1-2 hours
€6
Alfama District
Lisbon's oldest district, known for its narrow, winding streets, Fado music, and historic charm.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Sintra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra is a romantic town with stunning palaces and castles.
Historical
Full day
Varies by attraction, around €10-€15 per site
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bacalhau à Brás
Shredded codfish with eggs, potatoes, and onions
Main Dish
Contains fish and eggs
Pastel de Nata
Custard tart with a flaky pastry crust
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Francesinha
A sandwich with meat, cheese, and a beer-based sauce
Main Dish
Contains meat, cheese, and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in Sintra
Surfing in Ericeira
Parasailing in Cascais
Beach lounging in Costa da Caparica
Spa day in a luxury hotel
Picnic in Jardim da Estrela
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending Fado performances
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time, WET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Humberto Delgado Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Santa Apolónia, Oriente
By bus
Sete Rios, Jardim do Campo Grande, Gare do Oriente
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and clean, with four lines connecting major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alfama
Baixa
Bairro Alto
Day trips
Sintra
25 km from Lisbon • Full day
A romantic town with stunning palaces, castles, and lush gardens.
Cascais
30 km from Lisbon • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Óbidos
80 km from Lisbon • Full day
A medieval town with a well-preserved castle, narrow streets, and charming shops.
Festivals
Santos Populares • June 13th
Festival dos Oceanos • June to September
Arraial do Alfoz • June to September
Pro tips
- Visit the Time Out Market for a variety of local and international cuisines
- Take a day trip to Sintra and Cascais for a mix of history and beach relaxation
- Explore the LX Factory for a unique shopping and dining experience
- Ride the historic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city
- Visit the MAAT museum for a blend of art, architecture, and technology
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
