Neighbourhood
Alfama
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon's oldest quarter, a maze of lanes, tiled houses, washing lines and fado bars.
Tower · Portugal · Lisbon
Belem Tower
A 16th-century fortified tower on the Tagus, symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.
UNESCO World Heritage Paid entry about 60 min
For storytellers
Why Belem Tower matters
Belem Tower stands at the water's edge where the Tagus meets the Atlantic, and it looks almost like a stone ship. Built in the 16th century to guard the harbour, it became a symbol of the explorers who set out from this shore. Look for the carved stone details, then walk along the river for the best views. Queues can be long on summer afternoons.
Talking points
- Its carvings include nautical motifs.
- Explorers set out from this stretch of river.
- The riverside path is a pleasant walk.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.
More in Lisbon
Church, mosque or temple · UNESCO
Jeronimos Monastery
Lisbon, Portugal
A showpiece of Manueline architecture, with an ornate cloister, near Belem Tower.
Castle
Sao Jorge Castle
Lisbon, Portugal
A hilltop castle with ramparts, peacocks and some of Lisbon's best panoramic views.
Food and drink
Pasteis de Belem
Lisbon, Portugal
The famous bakery that has made custard tarts to a secret recipe for generations.
Square
Praca do Comercio
Lisbon, Portugal
A huge riverfront square framed by yellow arcades and a triumphal arch.
Museum
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Lisbon, Portugal
A serene museum of Egyptian, Islamic and European art in a garden setting.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.