Belém Walking Tour & Lisbon’s Riverside Treasures
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Belém, the riverside district where Portugal’s Age of Discoveries began. Once a fishing village and later home to Portuguese nobility, Belém is filled with iconic monuments, grand architecture, and stories of the world’s first global empire.
Your tour begins at Afonso de Albuquerque Square before strolling along the Tagus waterfront. See the Monument to the Discoveries, hear about explorers like Vasco da Gama and Henry the Navigator, and learn how a small country built territories across the globe.
Continue to Belém’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower—and uncover the events, battles, and remarkable figures that shaped Portuguese history. Tours run rain or shine.
Available options
Tour in Spanish
Tour departing at 2:30pm with a Spanish speaking guide
Tour in English
Tour departing at 2:30pm with an English speaking guide
What's included
Local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your Belém Tour starts by the monument at Afonso de Albuquerque Square.
2
This beautiful and ancient settlement sits on the banks of the River Tagus, and tells the story of the beginning of globalisation, and of history's greatest explorers. Learn about Portugal's "Age of Discoveries" and travel through the monuments of the historic Belém district in Lisbon.
3
Stop 3
Visit the Empire Square Gardens, which were built for the Portuguese World Exhibition in 1940.
4
Stop 4
Explore the impressive Padrão dos Descobrimentos - Monument to the Discoveries, which features great explorers like Henry the Navigator, Luís de Camões and Vasco da Gama.
5
Stop 5
Visit the Jeronimos Monastery, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about its history and explore its unique Gothic Manueline style.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
6 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
158 reviews
5★
127
4★
17
3★
1
2★
9
1★
4
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The independent guides with whom we work have your best interests in mind; while the tour usually includes the sites and stories above and lasts this long, your tour may vary depending on what your guide thinks is best for your group!
Meeting point
The Belém Tour starts by the monument at Afonso de Albuquerque Square. Look for the SANDEMANs NEW Europe team with a red t-shirt and red umbrella.
Important notes
Please be at your meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
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
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