What to do in Belém

Activities, attractions and tours

A large monument with a curved base and a group of statues on top, overlooking a body of water with a bridge in the background.
A red bridge spanning a body of water with a sailboat in the foreground.
A marina with multiple sailboats docked.
A historic building with a large courtyard and a fountain.
A historic building with a large courtyard and a fountain.

Places to Visit in Belém

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Belém, Lisbon District while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Belém attractions from , making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Belém tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Belém. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities


  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Belém Tower

Belém Tower is an impressive structure on the shore of the Tagus River in Lisbon. The ornate fortification was built here over 500 years ago to fight off any hostile craft that came up the river. Gaze straight across the river from the top of the Tower Terrace to see St. Sebastian’s Fort, another fortification on the opposite shore. With the two towers in place, enemy warships could not achieve success in attacking the city.
Learn more
A historic stone castle by a river, with a wooden bridge leading to it.

2. Jerónimos Monastery

Visit the Jeronimos Monastery to see a stunning monument marked with decorative façades and spires. This architecture is a shining example of late-Gothic design with a hint of Renaissance ornamentation. Inside, walk the same halls once inhabited by the Hieronymite monks, a sombre Catholic sect that prayed for the safe return of Lisbon’s seafaring explorers.
Learn more
A courtyard with ornate arches and a central fountain.

3. Pastéis de Belém

Prepare your taste buds for an authentic experience in Portuguese sweets at the Pastéis de Belem. This world-renowned and wildly popular pastry shop attracts crowds that line up out the door for a bite of one of its home-cooked delights. Waiting is worthwhile: at the end you’ll experience the flaky crust and warm custard centre of a pastel de nata, Lisbon’s signature pastry.
Learn more
A bakery with freshly baked pastries on display.

4. Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Lisbon’s Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) points out over the Tagus River. From this spot many sailing vessels followed the river out to the Atlantic Ocean to explore uncharted waters and discover new lands. View this concrete-and-limestone monument to study a 3-D mural of maritime figures. These people are recognized as Portugal’s leading individuals for introducing European customs and trade to distant regions.
Learn more
A large monument with relief sculptures, a red bridge, and a beach with people walking.

5. Maritime Museum

Get in touch with your inner sailor at the Maritime Museum. This nautical institution preserves the memory of Portugal’s pioneering explorers with displays of famous personalities, boat models and examples of their cartography. With a collection of 17,000 items, this is one of the most comprehensive exhibitions of maritime history from the Middle Ages on.
Learn more
A historic cathedral with two tall towers and a red-tiled roof.

Recommended things to do in Belém

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Belém


Stay near popular Belém attractions


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Belém

Frequently asked questions

Is Belém worth visiting?
Renowned for its cafes and culture, finding fun things to do in Belém is a cinch. Be sure to add Ajuda National Palace to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Belém?
Once you've visited top attractions like Maritime Museum, spend some time discovering the food and retail options in Belém.
What is the top tourist attraction in Belém?
The top tourist attraction near Belém is Ajuda National Palace, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Belém?
You'll have all the time you need to experience Ajuda National Palace, Quinta de Pancas and other top attractions around the area when you plan a three-day escape to Belém.
Is Belém a walkable neighbourhood?
Getting around Belém on foot is a breeze, with key attractions like Ajuda National Palace and Quinta de Pancas both within walking distance. Popular neighbourhoods like Alcântara and Restelo are also located only 3 kilometres and 2 kilometres from the centre of Belém, so you can see and do more — no wheels required.
What are some activities to do in Belém with kids?
Deciding what to do in Belém with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly activities to keep them happy here.
What to do in Belém for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Belém for adults including Quinta de Pancas.
Are there free things to do in Belém?
One of the most popular free things to do in Belém is visit Berardo Collection. You can also stroll to nearby neighbourhoods and spend time in parks and other open spaces in the area. If you're looking for more ideas, just talk with a local tour guide.