Why Belem, Portugal Should Be Your Next Stop

Micah
Jul 5, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Aug 4

Key Takeaways:

🚊 Getting There is Simple: Hop on tram #15E (25 mins from downtown) or the train from Cais do Sodré (just 7 mins!). Avoid summer crowds by leaving early.
🏰 UNESCO Wonders Rule: Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower are must-sees. Buy tickets online or use the Lisboa Card to skip lines.
🥧 Eat the OG Custard Tart: Pasteis de Belém’s secret-recipe tarts cost €1.40 each. Skip the queue by using the dining entrance.
🌊 Monument Views Are Free-ish: Climb Padrão dos Descobrimentos for €6 to see Belém’s skyline—cheaper than Belém Tower.
🚶 Half-Day Magic: Hit the Big Three (Monastery, Tower, Tarts) in 4 hours. Add MAAT museum or a river sail for a full day.

How to Actually Get to Belem (No Stress!)

Getting to Belem feels like unlocking a secret level in Lisbon—easy once you know the tricks. The train from Cais do Sodré is your fastest bet (7 mins, €1.45). Trains run every 10-20 mins from 5:30 AM until 1:30 AM. If you’re near Praça do Comércio, tram #15E rumbles along the river in 25 mins (€3 ticket bought on board). Heads up: this tram’s packed by 10 AM, and pickpockets love it too. For cruisers, bus #728 stops right outside the port terminals.

💡 Pro Hack: Buy a 24-hour public transport pass (€6.80) at any metro station. It covers trains, trams, and buses—way cheaper than single rides.

Belem’s Must-Sees (Skip These & Regret It)

Jerónimos Monastery ain’t just pretty stone—it’s where Vasco da Gama prayed before sailing to India. The cloisters? Mind-blowing. Go early (9 AM) or you’ll bake in a 40-min queue. Secret: The attached Santa Maria Church (free!) holds da Gama’s tomb and avoids crowds.

Belém Tower looks epic outside, but inside’s kinda cramped. Climb it for river views if lines are short (<20 mins). Otherwise, Padrão dos Descobrimentos gives taller vistas for less money (€6, elevator included). Check out the giant marble compass rose at its base—it’s a sneaky-cool photo op.

Pastéis de Belém is the only spot for OG custard tarts (since 1837!). They use a secret recipe from Jerónimos monks. Skip the takeout line—dart inside to the dining rooms. Order with a bica (Portuguese espresso). Trust me, cinnamon-dusted warmth beats any Instagram hype.

Beyond the Big Names: Local Gems

Feeling museum-y? The MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, Tech) merges a futuristic wave-shaped building with an old power plant. Walk its rooftop for free Tagus River views. Coach Museum sounds dull—until you see gold-plated royal carriages that put Cinderella’s ride to shame.

LX Factory (10 mins from Belem by Uber) is an artsy escape. Think graffiti murals, indie bookshops, and craft beer at Rio Maravilha. Go for sunset—it’s chef’s kiss.

🌿 Chill Spot: Jardim da Praça do Império gardens. Grab tarts to-go and picnic near fountains. Way quieter than fighting for cafe seats.

A Navy Ship setting off fire works in the Tagus river — Navy on the Tagus

Why Belem Fits YOUR Trip (Seriously)

History Nerds: This is Portugal’s Age of Discovery HQ. Every monument whispers explorer drama.
Foodies: Those tarts. Also, try bacalhau (salted cod) at O Frade (near Coach Museum).
Families: Wide sidewalks, parks, and boat rides (sail the Tagus for €25—kiddos love it).
Insta-Peeps: Belém Tower at golden hour = pure fire. MAAT’s curves are a aesthetic dream.

inner courtyard of the Jerónimos Monastery — Jerónimos Monastery

Smart Tips Only Pros Know

Lisboa Card Pays Off: €31 for 24 hrs. Covers train/tram, Jerónimos, Belém Tower, and tram 28. Saves €22+ per person.
Beat Crowds: Monastery at 9 AM → starts at 10 AM → Belém Tower at 11 AM. Thank me later.
Uber Back: Trams jam up by 4 PM. A taxi to downtown costs under €10.
Shoe Warning: Cobblestones hurt. Wear trainers—not flip-flops.