Adorning the cover of numerous postcards and guidebooks, a visit to Lisbon’s beautiful, UNESCO-listed Belém Tower features on almost every visitor’s itinerary. If you’d like to know more about visiting this 500-year-old structure, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the tower’s history, how and when to go, tips for buying tickets, what to expect once you’re inside, and more.
Here’s everything you need to know.
History
Back in the 15th century, the king and his military advisers realized Lisbon’s existing defensive forts at the mouth of the Tagus river didn’t provide enough protection from sea-based attack. Plans were drawn up in the early 1500s to add a new fortified tower on the northern bank of the river, a little further downstream where the Tagus was narrower and easier to defend.
A small island of volcanic rock just offshore in Belém was chosen as the ideal site. Construction started in 1514 and finished five years later, with the tower named Castelo de São Vicente de Belém (The Castle of Saint Vincent of Bethlehem). Throughout the next several decades, the structure underwent a series of upgrades and additions to strengthen its defensive capabilities.
Over the centuries, the tower transitioned from defense to other roles. Troops were stationed in an adjoining barracks, and the dungeons of the tower served as a prison for 250 years. It also functioned as a customs house, collecting duties from foreign ships until 1833.
The tower fell into disrepair by that time, but major conservation and restoration efforts didn’t commence until the mid-1900s. A significant European science and culture exhibition was held in the tower in 1983, which subsequently gained recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A year-long full restoration finished in early 1998, leaving Belém Tower as it appears today. It was declared one of the “Seven Wonders of Portugal” in 2007.
How to Visit
At the southwestern edge of Lisbon’s official city limits, the popular neighborhood of Belém lies about five miles from downtown areas. Getting there is straightforward: trains, buses, and trams all run along the river from Cais do Sodre and other main stations, all costing under three euros for a single ticket. Ferries also operate to Belém, but only from a couple of terminals on the southern bank of the river.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also inexpensive, especially when traveling in a group. Moreover, it’s a pleasant walk along the waterfront under the striking April 25 bridge, with several attractions, bars, and restaurants along the way.
Originally freestanding in the Tagus River, Belém Tower is now only surrounded by water at high tide due to extensions of the nearby riverbank. Access to the tower is via a small bridge.
The tower opens to visitors from 10 am, closing at 5:30 pm from October through May, and at 6:30 pm the remainder of the year. However, last entry is at 5 pm, regardless of the closing time. Remember that the tower is closed every Monday, as well as on New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, May Day (1 May), and Christmas Day.
You can still take photos of the striking exterior when the tower isn’t open, but you won’t be able to enter. Head to the right of the tower for the best photo opportunities, away from the line and busy pedestrian area. Sunset is particularly good for capturing the tower, framed against the river and orange sky.
Due to its popularity and relatively small size, the site gets very busy in summer, especially from late morning to mid-afternoon, when many tour buses and groups arrive. For a more relaxed experience, it’s advisable to arrive early or toward the end of the day. Lines often start forming half an hour before opening time, and since people are allowed in and out in groups, the process can be slow-moving. Expect to spend around 45 minutes inside.
Inside the Tower
For most visitors, the highlight of Belém Tower is the open terrace at the top; however, don’t rush through the rest of the structure just to get there. A single narrow, steep staircase provides access to all floors, including the roof, which can become crowded. A red/green traffic light system controls whether people can ascend or descend at a given time, and the wait allows for exploration of each floor on the way up or down.
The ground floor once housed the tower’s artillery, with cannons aimed across the river through narrow window openings. Several large guns remain in place today. Below them lies the magazine, originally for storing gunpowder and military equipment, which later transformed into a dark, damp prison.
Above that is the Governor’s Chamber, where nine successive governors worked for over three centuries. Although little remains, it’s worth exploring the narrow tunnels at either end leading to attached turrets. From one turret, you can see a small stone sculpture of a rhinoceros head, commemorating the arrival of one of the first rhinos in Europe, a gift for King Manuel I in 1514.
Climbing further, you’ll reach the King’s Chamber. While the room itself may seem unexciting, it provides access to a Renaissance-style balcony with splendid views over the lower terrace and river. Above this lie the Audience Chamber on the third floor and the former chapel converted into a small theater on the fourth, showcasing a video history of the tower and the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the waterfront, river, and surrounding neighborhood. The April 25 bridge and the statue of Christ the Redeemer on the opposite bank are both visible, making it an ideal spot for iconic Lisbon photos.
Buying Tickets
A single adult ticket costs six euros, with a 50% discount for visitors 65 years and older, those possessing a student or youth card, and families of two adults and two or more children under 18. Children under the age of 12 are admitted free.
A combined ticket grants access to Belém Tower, the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, and the National Archaeology Museum for €12.
During busy periods, it’s beneficial to purchase your ticket before arriving at the tower. Tickets can be acquired from the nearby tourist information office or as part of the combination pass mentioned above. The lengthy ticket line at the tower itself is separate from the entrance line, which can be avoided entirely if you already have your ticket.
Even with free access via a Lisbon pass, you still need to pick up a ticket—the pass itself doesn’t grant entry inside the tower.
When You’re Finished
Given its location, it makes sense to combine a visit to Belém Tower with other nearby attractions. The majestic Jerónimos Monastery is only a 10-15 minute walk away, and combination tickets are available at a discount.
Close to the monastery is the Pastéis de Belém bakery, the original home of Portugal’s famous pastel de nata egg tart. After climbing up and down those 200+ stairs, treating yourself is definitely in order! Although there may be a line, it’s well worth the wait.
Finally, for something a bit less historic yet equally interesting, stroll back along the waterfront to MAAT (the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology). Housed in a former power station, and opened in 2016, you’ll pay €5-9 to enter—or if you’re still on the lookout for photogenic spots, just head up to the viewing area for free.
