Belém Tower

Monument · Belem Tower

Belém Tower

Monument · Belem Tower

5

Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal

Photos

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Belém Tower by Getty
Belém Tower by Getty
Belém Tower by Getty
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null
Belém Tower by null

Highlights

UNESCO World Heritage site, fortified tower with rooftop terrace  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal Get directions

museusemonumentos.pt

Information

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Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal Get directions

+351 21 362 0034
museusemonumentos.pt
TorredeBelem

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Aug 19, 2025

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@travelleisure

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My Favorite Airbnb: A Lisbon Loft in Central Alfama

"A historic tower located in the Belem district, known for its role in Portugal's Age of Discoveries."

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@cntraveler

The 15 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

"A UNESCO World Heritage site, Belém Tower was built on the northern bank of the Tagus River between 1514 and 1520 by architect Francisco de Arruda. Also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, it was originally constructed to defend the city. Later, the fortress acquired new life as both a lighthouse and customs office. No need to be a history buff to enjoy the power of this place. Beware the narrow stairs, though—navigating the building’s five floors and rooftop terrace requires stamina, but the trek to the top is rewarded with killer views." - Alia Akkam, Chadner Navarro

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-lisbon
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@cntraveler

Belém Tower, Lisbon, Portugal - Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Give us some historical context here. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Belém Tower was built on the northern bank of the Tagus River between 1514 and 1520 by architect Francisco de Arruda. Also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, it was originally constructed to defend the city. Later, the fortress acquired new life as both a lighthouse and customs office. Who comes here? Tourists young and old, many of whom combine the tower visit with a tour of the nearby Jerónimos Monastery. No need to be a history buff to enjoy the power of this place. So what’s it actually like? Built during the reign of Manuel I, this landmark is architecturally riveting, designed in the Manueline, late Portuguese Gothic style. It’s adorned with stone fireplaces, armillary spheres, shields bearing the cross of the Order of Christ, and Venetian-inspired balcony windows, but its most striking feature is undoubtedly the rhinoceros gargoyle gracing the façade. Got it. And who do you think will most appreciate it? Those who want a visually stunning conduit into Portuguese history. Beware the narrow stairs, though; navigating the building’s five floors and rooftop terrace requires stamina. The trek to the top is rewarded with killer views." - Alia Akkam

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/lisbon/belem-tower
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Róbert Drabik

Google
Great water castle, pity, that it's in reconctruction, so I could not get inside... pretty lovely. In my country castles were usually built up the hills, to see enemies. In fact, in my own city, we already have a monument to water castle.

Sarah Jamal

Google
Unfortunately the tower is under renovation till next year 2025 but the area around is very lively and fun. Too many hawkers trying to sell trinkets does dampen the fun as they surround you but overall it was a fun place to visit. Took the boat for a sightseeing cruise from the river which gives you another view of the city.

Paul McNamara

Google
I am only knocking the stars down due to the tower being closed and covered in a scaffold. It is an amazing tower in a stunning location, but it currently looks like a building site. I believe it won't be reopened until mid-2026. I look forward to another trip to Lisbon to see it in all its glory

Sharmili Roy

Google
We visited the Belém Tower on a Monday, unfortunately not realizing it was closed that day, so we couldn’t go inside. From the outside, it looks nice and has some historical charm, but honestly, it felt like a pretty normal tourist spot. It wasn't particularly impressive or memorable compared to other landmarks we’ve seen. The area around it is scenic, but overall, the experience was a bit underwhelming. Not a must-see in our opinion.

Barak Friedman

Google
Easy access with public transport. When I was there, the tower itself was under renovations of some sort. The gardens around are lovely. If you visit during summer, try to get there early as there is not a lot of shade around. Combine with a visit to the nearby monastery.

Hanna Byun

Google
How disappointing!!! It was under renovation/ construction, so it was completely covered and out of access (couldn’t even make out the shape of the building) :( I was angry because I walk a long way from tram station to get here under scorching weather.. Why is this important information nowhere to be found?! Isn’t it part of central attraction or something?

Alfred Ng

Google
The Belém Tower in Lisbon is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. I visited just before sunset, and the light was magical — perfect for photos and a peaceful walk along the river. It can get quite crowded, but the atmosphere is still relaxed. I didn’t go inside the tower, but just seeing it from the outside was already worth the stop. If you’re in Lisbon, this is a must-visit, especially in the late afternoon when the sky turns golden. Tip: If you're driving, allow extra time to find parking — spots nearby can be limited and hard to secure.

London London

Google
Belém Tower is currently under renovation, so one of the best ways to see it is from the water. My friends and I recently took a sailing trip, and we enjoyed it a lot! Seeing the tower from the river gave us a unique perspective and amazing photo opportunities. Highly recommend this experience if you want to admire Belém Tower without scaffolding in the way. An official source from Portugal’s Cultural Heritage Institute, the body overseeing the implementation of the RRP in heritage-related projects, confirmed to Lusa news agency that the restoration contract was awarded for €1.05 million, with a completion timeline of twelve months.
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Christine L.

Yelp
Gorgeous tower and buy tickets online and be prepared to wait! I could not climb the 96 steps on a stair case that is so narrow and windy that only one person can go up at a time. Not handicap accessible. Still pretty pictures. Highly recommended!
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Thanuja V.

Yelp
This is a beautiful site and it's best to go during non peak season and hours. It's very easy to get to by tram and parking is also available. If you are in Lisbon for more than a few days I suggest getting the Lisbon card. What I did not appreciate was the attendant did not give me the chance to enter the currency I wanted and preselected it for me. I went on January 15 and he said it was preselected.
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Ken J.

Yelp
16th century limestone fortification with Moorish design elements on the banks of the Tagus River in Lisbon. We didn't get inside , so I only have exterior pics. Very ornate, as are many ancient buildings in Portugal. Such a marked difference from modern building.
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Erik C.

Yelp
Torre de Belem was such a great treat. This is definitely a must see in Portugal. The family and I had a blast and we took so many worthy photos.
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Michael F.

Yelp
Belém Tower can be done in one of two ways. You can swing by for a view from the outside. This option is free of charge, does not require waiting in line, and allows for a few insta worthy pictures. Honestly, that's no fun and admission was only around 8 euros. If you opt for tickets, as I did, I recommend you come early as the queue grows over the day - especially on a Saturday. They meter folks in amazingly well. The self guided tour will take you 30-45 minutes and allow for more great photos, including across the water. The tower itself is 4 floors, each floor only includes a room or two. I'll stop short of calling it a must, however, it is highly recommended.
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Casey M.

Yelp
We jumped on the Hop on Hop off bus (red line) to Belém tower which is such a beautiful four storey 30 metre high structure set upon the banks of the Tagus river accessible by a bridge although I didn't go in I can imagine the views would be amazing.and interior very interesting but I decided to wander onto the beach to look for rocks instead. There are great views in this area of the Abril bridge, there are toilets in the area, places to grab a quick bite and plenty of places offering alcoholic beverages such as wine with a view and Pina Colada's served in an actual pineapple. We had a really lovely afternoon here.
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Kanchan B.

Yelp
Beautiful architecture! One of the 5 days in the year that it's closed, and thats when we visited. However still had a fun time clambering around the surronding rocks. Def a must visit when in Lisbon. Yelp/ 2019
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Andy N.

Yelp
Belém Tower is on everybody's "must-see" in Lisbon list and it holds true to that reputation. It is definitely worth a trip out here to experience the tower and the coastline. The tower is situated at the shore of a small park. Is is lovely to walk through and you'll encounter friendly people as well as folks trying to sell you random stuff. If you are not interested, be firm, politely decline, and just move forward (or outright ignore them - they are used to this too). I didn't feel the need to go inside on my trip there as the actual tower itself was a marvel in itself. To see a structure that survived a major earthquake that nearly wiped out the entire rest of the town is a privilege. The views are spectacular and it should be a first stop in the other wonderful attractions closeby.

El Dragon M.

Yelp
My wife and I were here on a Gate1 tour, and this was one of the sights that we went to, enjoyed its history and appearance. a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a 16th-century fortification that served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers and as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. There are quite a few other attractions very close by.
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Chris C.

Yelp
I eagerly travelled far across the sea for this highly anticipated climb. But, during my travels, special card in hand that I had to specifically withdraw from the salty fish museum, I must admit I grew weary. Here is why, I will explain it below, as concisely as I can, hereafter: On my hand, I had a bracelet made of cloth. know that I passed many a fisherman holding long slender rods. they lured me, but persist I must for my destination was still forthwith. I found the sacred tower, and bellowed a triumphant grunt heard throughout the monastery grounds. My Bolt driver swerved but his aim was still true. I was worried about losing my cool, in front of so many of my fans. the tower was beholden to no one, but somehow, a queue as long as a basilisks tusks, stretched greatly into the foggy morning mist. a single small tear fell from my jaded and weathered face. I caught that tear with my tongue. It is a dry day and water must be conserved. i appreciated this gift of moisture provided by the mighty and strong tower. the queue made me want to die. I passed out. when I awoke people had zig zagged around me. my abdominal muscles were sore and I had to use the bathroom. I felt as though my muscles have become more defined. actually, I have been working out, and it has been going well, but there are definitely days where I don't like to work out. my hips gyrated in the wind. the tower was so prominent in my vision. It was magnifique. I crawled toward the front of the cue, inching closer to the tower, taking note of how the sandy steps felt being dragged upon my moderately defined abdomen. The steps were sandy indeed. I salivated. (There was a smell of fresh mollusks wafting in the breeze). I reached the precipus. The noxious odor of BO invaded my mollusk filled nares. They flared with alarm. Surreptitiously, I flashed my Lisboa card with gusto and flick of my wrist. I had been practicing this move hard for this moment because body language communication is my one flaw. I wished so much in this moment I had remembered to wear my birthday pin so more people would acknowledge my special day. The man bellowed with his trumpet like lips "NO", in a song of denial and rejection. I gasped and feelings of saudade interrupted stream of consciousness. Grimacing in displeasure, I realized I needed to release my lisboa card to the ticket chief chicken bacon officer and a steady stream of moisture unleashed from my seeing oracles like the mighty Tejo river. They flooded down my ripped abs , and if one was listening closely one may hear marimba jazz like a xylophone of jazz. My very own fado melody. I succumbed to the shape of the tower. Which Ppead appeared as though it was as large as a bottle of ready-made Enfamil formula heated in the microwave with gentle, caressing powers. It's nutritious and supple body ready to provide sustenance to the world at large and nutrition for my abdomen the protein provided would surely be almost as great as a chicken bacon officer, which was head on my mind as I was reminded across the waters that the yoke of civilization belong here at the tower of Belem, this was a mighty and joyous civilization, but now has fallen to the wayward with security and lines of which proportions you'll never know about this tower will make you feel gratification which exploited my abdomen and made me the man I am today: A large child with sticky hands. Someone vomited in the distance just now. I clutch my belly and feel the sorrow of it once again, adding to my fado song. New ticket in hand, I scrambled up the winding tower on all fours. fast. With raging vertigo I reached the chapel at last. I let out a final grunt-like note of my humble tune, my song was complete. I left the tower feeling uncertain of the future and all it holds, and I long for the tower to this day. Its phallic nature will forever be etched in my withered heart. sincerely, the Crazy Critic Cranimal Ps stop dm-ing me I don't socialize well and my inbox is becoming full
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Terra S.

Yelp
OK this tower is really pretty from the outside and the view from the courtyard in the back on the outside by the water. But waiting in line to go all the way up the stairs, and all the way down is ridiculous. Because only 30 people can go up and we all have to go up the same time and then everyone has to leave at the same time. Because the stairs are so small or something like that.... It's really strange. And then you're out there on the balcony struggling to take a look at the view and even get pictures. So that's really annoying! But other than that it's beautiful and when in Lisbon, you should not miss it!
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Tairyn A.

Yelp
How do you opportunity to travel to Spain and Lisbon last month and I saw so many amazing things. This tower is in Lisbon right on the water. It has an amazing view. The tower itself is not as intricately built as other structures I visited, and it is quite small, but it is just as powerful to see as all the other landmarks I visited. Once you go into the tower itself there are a few hundred steps that you need to go up to the top. The pathway is very narrow. There are guards who let people in and out in intervals, so there is a little bit of waiting involved depending how busy it is. We also had to wait outside to get into the structure. Once inside you can take your time to take photos as there are many areas where you would have an optimal background. At the top of the tower there isn't much to do ,it's small. There's just a couple of nice windows where people sit to take pictures looking out into the ocean. That only takes a few minutes. I think after a while the guards rush you out for the next group to climb up. Overall is an amazing experience and if you are in less born you need to do it!
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Bella J.

Yelp
I wish it had 4.5 star option. 1. Price: With Lisbon card, it is included. 2. The view from shore: amazing, especially if you arrive right before sunset 3. View from the tower: is also amazing 4. Up the tower: part is a bit tricky. There's only 1 stairs and it is for 1 person at a time, so they control traffic, it is pretty efficient. But during tourist season, it will get real long 5. Upkeep: poor. I wish they took care of this beautiful 500 year old tower. Doesn't the money from this go back to it? Lots of part of falling off and molded. 6. Windows are so dirty, you can't see anything. It would have made an awesome view and experience, if it was clean or clear. It is so dirty, it obstructs view, not just the prettiness of your picture. They could have decorated timely pieces to make the experience better like in other parts of Europe, but it is bare to the bones. I still liked visiting here.
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Jennifer S.

Yelp
Cool place to visit and head up to the very top for more views. History is rich and amazing here.
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Barney C.

Yelp
An awesome architectural landmark that should be on any tourist's to-visit list. You don't have to go inside to appreciate the tower. There's a lot of areas immediately around the tower to lounge and enjoy the cool breeze from the water. There's vendors nearby so you won't get thirsty. If you're looking to optimize your time in Lisbon, I'd suggest combining a visit to Belém Tower with a visit to: - Pastéis de Belém: the best (and original) Pastel de nata that Lisbon has to offer - Jerónimos Monastery: Late Gothic Manueline-style monastery housing archaeology & maritime museums in its wings. No egg tarts here.
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Marlon T.

Yelp
Everyone goes to Belem for a number of reasons, the first one probably being to get the best egg custards at Pastéis de Belém! The next reasons to be in Belem are: - Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) - Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) You can't not visit these sites when making your way to this area. The atmosphere is busy, but nice, and the views are amazing. I didn't go inside the tower, so I can't say it's worthwhile, but I can say that the photo ops outside are endless!
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Bruce K.

Yelp
Officially the Tower of Saint Vincent, this 16th century fortification wins for curb appeal. It is located directly on the Tagus River and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. The structure is 30 meters (98 feet) tall and is four levels with a neat bridge from the shore. The tower is open for tours but the view from just the top of that isn't much to write home about. Definitely visit and get your outside pictures but I don't know that it's worth any cost to go inside. [Review 16609 overall - 126 in Portugal - 119 of 2022.]
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William W.

Yelp
Built in 1514, Belém Tower appears to be a fortified structure that once battled invaders. It wasn't. This was merely the place at which people disembarked when arriving in Lisbon by ship hundreds of years ago. The Lisboa card will allow you free tickets which are sold in a mirrored building just a 2-minute walk directly north from the entrance. The closing time was supposed to be 5:30 p.m. on the day we visited, but they extended ticket buying until 5:45 p.m., at which point you were cut off even if you were standing in line. So don't delay if you want tickets! The views from the top of the tower of both the Tagus River and the Ponte 25 de Avril (April 25 Bridge) are okay, the latter bearing a striking resemblance to San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge upon which it was based. But I certainly wouldn't go out of my way for this view. It's a long walk from other popular attractions.
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Andrea H.

Yelp
Also known as the Tower of Saint Vincent, this was built in the 1500's it served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers and as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. Beautiful architecture and a sight to see. It was closed the day I was there, so I didn't get to go inside. I hear the views from the top are nice.
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Andrea U.

Yelp
A 16th-century tower which serves as a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery on both land and sea. This landmark medieval fortified tower is on tiny river island with rooftop terrace offering estuary views & was once a prison.
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Mary G.

Yelp
A great stop!! We were here on an early-summer Friday afternoon. The line to get tickets had a longer wait (maybe 5 minutes?) than the line to get in - woohoo!!! There were signs explaining the different areas of the fort both in terms of function and form. Our kids enjoyed the spot as well! Of course they would recommend climbing trees in the park before entering and the smoothies at the cafe just outside of the fort! Haha!
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Gerry T.

Yelp
I've always wanted to visit Spain to learn more about my roots (thank you 23 and me) so I don't know how I ended up going to Portugal - first. Of course, whilst in Lisboa - you have to visit this tower. It was built in the 1500s to further protect the country and it was an added fortification along a main river. By the way, all along the Portuguese coast - you'll see mini castles with watchtowers, which were created to protect them from invasion from the Atlantic. Portugal was a world power back in the day and this tower is a reminder of that renaissance period. Yes, it's a UNESCO site so don't miss this visit. The next time I come back, we'll have to purchase a ticket to go inside. There's always so much to come back for. On a side note, thank you Pfizer and Moderna!! We can hardly wait to be saying Bon dia or Boa Vista!!
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Tanja N.

Yelp
Torre de Belém or Belém tower is also known as the Tower of Saint Vincent, in honor of Lisbon's patron saint. It was originally built as a watchtower and ship replacement. King John II ordered a ship to be placed in a bay of Belém to defend the bay from attacks. His successors king Manuel I found tower to be more viable and the tower was originally built on a small island, that floats offshore. Great Earthquake in 1755 shifted the River Tagus course and moved island closer to river bank.. and over time it merged them together. Tower is now situated on the northern banks of the Tagus River, just a brief walk from The Monument of Discoveries and across the street from Saint Jerónimo's Monastery. It accentuates the India discovery expedition which was led by Vasco da Gama. Tower is easily accessible, just a short walk from the main road and parking lot. As one of the Lisboa's most famous landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Site it is one not to be missed. We chose to visit the tower at the sunrise. Plenty of parking spots available and barely any tourists, only occasional runners. Loved it! From the tower it's easy to see 25th April bridge, and the Jesus Christ Statue on the southern banks.

Michael S.

Yelp
2 hour wait in the boiling sun no thank you, this is a tourist trap, would recommend you look at appropriate times to go
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Cristine G.

Yelp
Yelp 100 Challenge 2019 - # 32/100 We took the tram 15 from Cais do Sodre and took a connecting bus to Belem from the tram stop at Moisterio dos Jeronimos. Highly recommend getting your tickets beforehand to save money. This is a highly visited tourist spot. When we arrived there were busloads of tourists making their way to the tower.
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Richard S.

Yelp
Built between 1514 and 1520 on than an island in the Tagus river to defend the port. You can go inside the tower and take steep, narrow, and winding steps to the top for a great view of the river.
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Tiffany D.

Yelp
Beautiful monument and wonderful walk through the pier-like area! I had a pleasant time sitting and watching the sunset here! I was in awe moment when I was admiring the scene!
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Vlad V.

Yelp
As you approach Torre de Belem, the size and beauty of this tower is breathtaking. One of Lisbon's most popular attractions, this was probably the attraction where I waited the most in line to get in during my trip. We're talking 30-45 minutes or so. The line starts outside and they periodically only let a certain number of people in every hour. It is worth it though. Exploring the tower is done at your own pace. While there isn't a lot to read about, you stop at every level of the tower and there are great views at points along the way. Make this a part of your day when you're in this part of Lisbon.
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Shanna K.

Yelp
We had taken a tram from Alfama, spent the afternoon at the Banksy exhibit, walked a little through a beautiful park, stopped for a drink and then rode Lime scooters (a squealing, hilarious first for me) down the waterfront. We made it to the tower just before sunset and it was perfect. It is impressively beautiful and a great place to people watch. There were a few couples taking wedding photos, boats floating by on the river, and a friendly wine vendor (Wine With A View) had set up there as well. We grabbed a glass, relaxed and just took it all in. It's as stunning as you would expect. Highly recommend.
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Michael U.

Yelp
Known for its rooftop view, Torre de Belem is a 16th-century tower which serves as a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery. Originally created to keep watch over the ocean as a show of strength the tower has withstood war, earthquake and tsunami but is currently closed for renovation, though its surrounding park is still quite lovely.
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Jim R.

Yelp
One of the iconic sights of Lisbon, the tower of Belém once served as HQ for a sort of harbor master keeping watch over ships loaded with gold and spices returning from their long voyages. It's cannons also protected the harbor and served as a deterrent to any unsavory characters. Today it sits near the bank of the river but originally it was smack dab in the middle. The land to the north, now covered by highway and train tracks was reclaimed when the river was deepened to facilitate navigation. While you can visit inside and climb a winding spiral staircase to the observation platform, we didn't have the time of patience to endure the long line, but got some great pictures of the exterior. Be sure to make the short trek 2.5 miles to Belém to see it and the impressive monastery.
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Chun P.

Yelp
Don't be late! Official closing time is 6:30pm, so I showed up at 5:15pm, but still got turned away because apparently they don't let anyone in after 5:00pm...and it was my last day in Lisbon...ugh! Hopefully I make it inside the next time... Oh well...this late medieval 16th century tower can still be appreciated for incredible exterior architecture details and sculptures, and the surrounding premises are also nice to sit, take photos, and people watch. Despite its rather diminutive size this cannon equipped tower, combined with the support of warships, did an effective job protecting Lisbon.
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Kevin B.

Yelp
The Belém Tower is a famous landmark and historic site in Belém, just west of Lisbon. It made the area famous and guarded the nearby monastery. That said, it's so-so to visit. The entire experience is one long queue (even once you're past the ticket counter, you still just walk as a queue through every single floor -- as soon as you get onto one level, you just enter the queue to go up the stairs to the next level). And there's not much to see or do inside -- the rooms are all barren. IMO you could enjoy the view from the outside, then go do something else with your day.
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Philip M.

Yelp
Chris and I visited here on Saturday. The line across the drawbridge was somewhat organized. The problems started once patrons arrived at the ticket counter which is physically inside the tower on the lower level. Only one cashier was working on a busy Saturday afternoon. Ridiculous. We could see a mob of people at the glass window with lots of unhappy faces. The cashier spoke English and claimed the credit card device was nonfunctional and therefore everyone had to pay cash. Many patrons were tourists like us and only had euros denominations of 20, 50 or more. The cashier claimed that he didn't have any small denomination bills or coins. Admission was six euros per person. So if you only had a 20 euro bill then the cashier pocketed the rest for himself. It's inexcusable for a major landmark on a busy Saturday to demand cash and then lack sufficient change. There were a group of tourists from Spain in front of us arguing with the cashier about the lack of change and calling him out about this dishonest situation. A group of us in line ended up negotiating amongst ourselves for correct change in order to enter without walking away from our own money. This cashier was smirking and laughing at us and other tourists unaware that we speak Spanish and some functional Portuguese. The tower and views are amazing. The stairwells are narrow and have a system of red and green lights to control traffic up and down the stairs. Many of the stairs are only 19 inches wide and can only permit one person in one direction. There weren't any employees enforcing the red and green lights resulting in frustrating gridlock inside the stairwells. The employees are dishonest, disorganized and need to be replaced. Bring lots of small bills and change then take a deep breath and prepare for frustration.
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Kathy V.

Yelp
Gorgeous! We loved visiting this tower as it's by the water- not too far of a walk from both the lighthouse and monastery. We rented motor scooters all over Lisbon and it was well worth it. A much more cheap and fun alternative than using Uber or taxi for tourists. Many food and drink options nearby too. I recommend coming by during dusk for a prettier view. Regardless, we think it is beautiful at whatever time you come :)
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Neluta G.

Yelp
A tower of Belem, what a landmark, this tower was actually in Rio Tejo, the big river that starts in Spain and joins the Atlantic ocean in Portugal, it is a salt water river. In early 1900 there was a massive earthquake in Lisbon, 8.9 on Richter scale that moved the tower inland. The sad story about that earthquake is that about 25% of the population died. However this tower survived and it stand today for the tourists and locals to enjoy.
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Steph G.

Yelp
I am glad we got here right at 10am because the crowds on a Saturday were fierce afterwards. I heard a lot of mixed reviews about paying the €6 to go into the tower, but because I personally love seeing the inside of towers it was a no brainer for me. You can probably make it in and out in about 15-20 minutes on a low volume day. You can buy tickets right at the entrance and the main level of the tower is sort of meh, so go check out the basement level where they used to keep prisoners. Nothing super amazing but it's cool to see how confines of a space they were working with. The main level and top level are what really make the entry worth it. The views are panoramic and the architecture of the tower and intricacy of the carvings are what i love to see. You can see out into the Atlantic and imagine what life was like back when the tower was actually used.
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Jen L.

Yelp
This was my first stop on my only full day in Lisbon. And wow! it was lovely. I wasn't able to go to the top level as they were doing conservation and were building a scaffold the day I arrived. Always fun to watch folks do semi-terrifying work...climbing high things etc... The tower itself is gorgeous and I was there on such a pretty morning...and since I was early not too crowded, but I did appreciate the directional cues for the stairwell since that made things much more comfortable. Gift shop was tiny and sort of meh. The bottom level (former storage and/or jail) is not for the tall folks as even short me had to duck and if it were crowded, the claustrophobia wouldn't definitely kick in. Lovely spot to sit on the sand and contemplate our builder ancestors and their skills.
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Jinghan W.

Yelp
Belém Tower to Lisbon is like "statue of liberty" to NYC, told by my tour guide. It is a fortified tower in Santa Maria de Belém. It is one of many UNESCO World Heritage in Portugal. The most glory time of the Belém Tower was during the maritime discoveries and it was a defense tower at that point. Later in the time, it represent how powerful Portugal was during the Age of Discoveries. We went there during December and it was very warm. The site was not that big so it took around 30 minutes to an hour to finish touring. However, we took more than a hour because the scenery on the tower was too beautiful to leave behind. There were not many information board to introduce certain sculptures or the history of the tower, so I had to look it up while I was touring. It would be good if they can put more information board up to help people understand the amazing history and stories about this tower.
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Ramona G.

Yelp
BEAUTIFUL!!!!! The famous Lisbon landmark! This should be #1 on your list of places to visit in Lisbon and it's also across from Pasteis de Belem which you should also visit! Kill two birds with one stone and pay this place a visit! The tower is not that huge so it won't even take up much time to see. Entrance is about 6 euros. This fortress was built in 1515, and it has gorgeous views of the water. Makes you feel like Portuguese royalty ha ha! It has a garden/park area surrounding it and it's a nice place to walk and take in the fresh air.
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Gabe O.

Yelp
A staple of Lisbon. Truly a must when visiting Liboa. Easy to get to, via light rail, a short-ish walk later you arrive. Then you wait in line... unless you buy your tickets ahead of time and then you can just bypass the line and get in. The Torre de Belem served as a military tower, guarding the beautiful city behind it. Now for under 10€ you can visit from level 1 where they have the cannons ready to attack if needed, to a cell for prisoners. All the way to the top, where you can see breathtaking views of Lisbon, the "Golden Gate Bridge" as well as that beautiful deep blue ocean. Well worth the trip/visit. Very well organized, and easily spent about 3.5 hours wondering the area.
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Alexander H.

Yelp
After spending a lot more time in the Monastery Jeronimos and spending more time for lunch we didn't have much left for the Torre. We walked here from the Monastery, which is a nice stroll along the River. You can see the tower from far away. It is quite an impressive sight, sitting there in the water with its lovely architecture. Makes a bunch of good pictures too. We didn't feel like going in and didn't have the time for it either. It's a nice tower, but after seeing the Monastery this one just doesn't hold up to it. If you are in Belem, be sure to have a look. But be also sure to check out the other sights in Belem.
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Catherine T.

Yelp
If you're ever in Lisbon, make sure you come check out the torre de Belém. This tower served as a fortress to Portuguese explores, and also a port departure for them. It was part of the biggest trade history from Portugal to China and India. It was also a gateway to Lisbon. There's a lot of history behind the tower and you can also go inside and take pictures. There is a line but it moves quickly. This tower was built in 1513, designed by architect Francisco de Arruda. The history behind it is amazing and really interesting.
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Emylene E.

Yelp
Great sight seeing around.must hire to drive you around with those little motorcycle cart taxi to take you places. Since they know great tourrist spots! Its all worth for 3 ppl for like 25Euros.
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Richard F.

Yelp
One of the most visited places in Lisbon and one you do not want to miss. If you ride the HOHO there is a stop right next to it. Much better to arrive early in the morning if you can as the crowds build and the wait in line to get in is very long and moves very slow. I believe they close it at 6:30 but, it takes so long to get in they will not let anyone in after 5:00. Be prepared to wait but, the historical value is well worth it. Easy walk over to the Monument about 100 yards down the street.
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Cindy L.

Yelp
Beautiful tower and it looks like a castle with a moat, it's too bad we came at a time when it was closed so we couldn't go in anymore. However, there's lots to see around the area. It's really off on its own in Lisbon so make sure your hop-on-hop-off tour bus comes by often. The Pasteis de Belem is nearby for some yummy egg custards, the lines may be long but it's worth it! Just make sure to bring it back to eat it and picnic by this Tower, because the river is right there and it's just really peaceful.
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Guy K.

Yelp
In A Nutshell: -The Belem Tower is located on the west side of the 25th of April Suspension Bridge. -Tons of tourists will be found here taking a lot of photos, so it can be tough to get a clear photo of this historic tower. -It's situated on the shore of Rio Tejo w/ semi-calm water so you can wade along the rocky steps. Overall, it's very easy to find.
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William G.

Yelp
This is an amazing historic fortification that is still standing. Think pre-US naval power, British, Dutch, Spanish,.... This building dates back to the days when Portugal ruled the world's commerce water ways. Vasco De Gama is known to have sailed from this very building on some of his historic voyages. This is a must for all history buffs, especially military world history buffs. Each level in this fort is quite impressive. The whole Portuguese coast has a fort every few miles, but, none as impressive as this one. These forts served as an early warning systems and barriers against any potential maritime aggressors.