Belém Tower Visitor's Guide – Highlights & Must-See Wonders

This guide will help you make the most of your visit to the iconic Belém Tower. We cover how to get here, the best route through the tower's five floors, and tips for combining your visit with other nearby attractions. For planning, also see our pages on opening hours and the best time to visit.

What to See Inside

The Bulwark & Dungeons

Your visit starts in the lower battery, or bulwark. Here you can see 17 cannon emplacements facing the river. Look down through the openings in the floor to see the dungeons where prisoners were once held. The open-air cloister in the center is a beautiful example of Manueline decoration.

The Tower Floors

A narrow spiral staircase connects the five floors. You will ascend through the Governor's Hall, the King's Hall with its elegant loggia, the Audience Hall, and the Chapel with its vaulted ceiling. Each room is small but offers a glimpse into the tower's past functions.

The Terrace

The visit culminates at the rooftop terrace. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the Belém district. It's the perfect spot to appreciate the strategic location of this historic fortress.

How to Get Here

Belém Tower is located at Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon. It is a few kilometers west of the city center.

By Tram: The most popular way is to take Tram 15E from Praça da Figueira or Praça do Comércio. Get off at the Belém or Lg. Princesa stop.
By Bus: Several bus lines, including 727, 728, and 729, stop near the tower.
By Train: Take the Cascais line from Cais do Sodré station and get off at Belém station. It's a pleasant 15-minute walk along the river from there.

The Belém district is perfect for a half-day trip. Combine your visit with the Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries, both a short walk away.

Visitor Guide FAQ

Practical information for your visit

Is there a lot of walking involved?

Inside the tower, the main challenge is the narrow, steep spiral staircase with 93 steps to the top. The surrounding area in Belém is flat and pleasant for walking.

Can I buy a combined ticket for other Belém monuments?

Yes, combined tickets are available that include entry to the Jerónimos Monastery and other museums, offering good value. The Lisboa Card also includes free entry.

Are there toilets inside the tower?

No, there are no public restrooms inside the tower itself. It is recommended to use facilities nearby before your visit.

Is there a gift shop?

Yes, there is a small shop at the entrance where you can buy souvenirs related to the tower and Portuguese history.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing narrow stairs. The top terrace can be windy, so a light jacket is advisable even on warm days.

Are there guided tours available?

While there are no official guided tours inside the tower, you can book external walking tours of the Belém district that cover the tower's history. See our guided tours page for options.