A Scenic Stroll from Belém to the Heart of Lisbon
Belém is one of Lisbon’s most storied districts, where Portugal’s Age of Exploration comes to life. Once the departure point for famous voyages, it’s now home to grand monuments, riverside promenades, and some of the city’s most iconic sights—including the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries. This walk begins in Belém and follows the Tagus River eastward, gradually transitioning from historic grandeur to the vibrant neighborhoods of central Lisbon. Along the way, you’ll pass museums, gardens, cafés, and scenic viewpoints—perfect for a relaxed, curiosity-driven stroll through the city’s layered past and present.
Belém is only about 30 minutes from Lisbon on the 15E tram. It’s actually a neighborhood in Lisbon but it feels very much like a day trip. The area is home to UNESCO Heritage Sites which are some of the best things to see in Lisbon. Belém is relatively flat so it’s easy to walk around. Many of the sites are closed on Mondays. This is what to see, do, and eat if you have one day in Belém.
This walk covers 8 km or 5 miles if you walk from the Belém Tower back to Cais do Sodre so I have suggested a number of options to hop back on the tram.
How to Navigate with your Mobile Device
JCVWalks are designed to be easy to follow on your mobile device. As you walk, you can tap the header or photo for each point of interest to open the location directly in Google Maps. This will help you navigate from your current location to the next point of interest. If you’d like to learn more about any stop along the way, just click the links in the description for additional details and context.
Belém is packed with iconic sights that require paid entry and are spread out enough that you’ll likely use public transportation multiple times. recommend purchasing the Lisboa Card for your visit to Belém—not because I earn anything from it (I don’t receive any commissions or incentives), but simply because I believe it’s a smart way to save money and make your day smoother.
The Lisboa Card – Is it worth it?
- Free or discounted entry to major attractions like:
- Jerónimos Monastery (normally €10)
- Belém Tower (normally €6)
- MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
- National Coach Museum
- Unlimited rides on public transport, including:
- Trams (like the scenic 15E to Belém)
- Metro and buses
- Bonus Benefits
- Saves time and money, especially if you plan to visit 2–3 paid attractions
- Skip-the-line access at some sites
- No need to buy individual tickets throughout the daySaves time and money, especially if you plan to visit 2–3 paid attractionsSkip-the-line access at some sites
The card includes free or discounted entry to major attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and MAAT, plus unlimited public transportation, which is especially handy for getting to and around Belém. If you plan to visit even two or three sites, the card often pays for itself.
Take the 15E Tram to Belém
The 15E tram stop at Praça do Comércio (also known as Terreiro do Paço) in Lisbon, is situated between the triumphal arch and the Tagus River.
The 15E tram stop at Cais do Sodre is located on Avenida 24 de Julho, right in front of the Cais do Sodré train and metro station.
Board the 15E tram heading west toward Belém. The ride takes about 20–25 minutes, passing through riverside neighborhoods.
Get off near Jerónimos Monastery or Belém Tower, where your walk back to Lisbon begins.
A single ticket on the tram cost €3. 24 hour pass is €6.80. The 15E tram is a modern train like tram. (The Lisbon Card is the better option here.) Note, be on the alert for pickpockets on the tram and in Belem.
Belém Tower
This is probably the most iconic landmark in Belém—and for good reason. Built in the early 1500s, the Belém Tower once served as a customs checkpoint and a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. It sits right on the water and is beautifully detailed with maritime motifs that reflect Portugal’s seafaring history.
I recommend starting your walk here. The tower opens at 10:00 a.m., and if you arrive a little early, you’ll have a better chance of getting great photos before the crowds show up. Even just seeing the outside is worth it, but if you have time, I think it’s worth going inside. Walking across the drawbridge and climbing to the top level gives you a great view and a real sense of the structure.
Tickets are sold at a nearby kiosk, and entry is €6. If you’re also planning to visit Jerónimos Monastery, the combo ticket for €10 is a good deal. You can buy tickets online too, which helps if you prefer to plan ahead. If you’re using the Lisboa Card, just show it at the mirrored kiosk near the tower to get your entry ticket.
Discoveries Monument
After visiting the tower, head east along the river toward the Monument to the Discoveries. It’s an easy walk, and you might pass a few food trucks along the way if you’re ready for a quick bite. This striking monument celebrates Portugal’s role in the Age of Exploration, with figures like Henry the Navigator carved into its dramatic design. The large compass mosaic on the ground nearby is one of my favorite features—worth pausing to take in.
You can go up to the top for a great view of Belém and the river. Entry to the observation deck is €6, or free with the Lisboa Card. If you’re up for it, the view is a nice reward before continuing the walk.
Jerónimos Monastery
From the monument, your next stop is Jerónimos Monastery, just across the street—but be aware, it’s a busy road. Look for the pedestrian underpass to safely cross beneath the traffic. Once you’re through, take a few minutes to wander around Empire Square Garden, which leads right up to the monastery entrance.
This 16th-century masterpiece is one of Belém’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, and it’s easy to see why. The architecture is incredibly detailed, especially in the cloister, which was my favorite part of the visit. If you get a chance, check out the balcony view into the church next door—it’s a great perspective.
When you arrive, you’ll see two lines. The left line is for monastery entry and is usually longer. If you didn’t buy a combo ticket earlier or purchase online, you’ll need to get one before joining the queue. Many people wait without tickets—don’t be one of them! If you already have your ticket, the line moves fairly quickly. And if you’re using the Lisboa Card, you can skip the ticket line and head straight to the entrance queue—your card acts as your ticket.
Pastéis de Belém
No walk through Belém is complete without trying a Pastel de Nata, Portugal’s famous custard tart. Legend has it that the original recipe was created right here in Belém. The monks from the nearby monastery used egg whites to starch their robes, and rather than waste the yolks, they mixed them with sugar and baked them into pastries. Eventually, the recipe was passed on to a local bakery—and today, you can still taste the original at Pastéis de Belém.
It’s a popular spot, so don’t be surprised if there’s a line. But it moves quickly, and the tarts are served warm, straight from the oven. I recommend grabbing one (or a few) and enjoying them outside or as you continue your walk. It’s a sweet little piece of history—and a delicious one.
From here, you can walk one mile to the next attractions or hop back on the Tram If you choose to take the tram, pick it up at Mosteiro Jerónimos which is across the street from Pasteis de Belém and take it to Rua Junqueira station
National Coach Museum
If you have the Lisboa Card, the National Coach Museum is included—and it’s worth a quick stop. The collection is beautifully preserved and gives a unique glimpse into Portugal’s royal past. I would’ve liked a bit more technical detail, but overall, it’s a great experience, especially if you’re already nearby.
From here, you’ve got a couple of options. You can either continue walking or hop back on the 15E tram at the Belém (Museu dos Coches) stop. If you’re walking, take the pedestrian bridge near the museum—it connects you to the riverside and also gives access to the train station.
25 de Abril Bridge
Once across, follow the Passeio Carlos do Carmo, a wide promenade with sculptures, river views, and a relaxed, open feel. One highlight is the Escultura de Luz, a striking piece with intricate detail that’s worth a pause. A bit farther along, you’ll find another pedestrian bridge that leads to the MAAT museum and the waterfront. This stretch of the walk feels more modern and open, with a few more sculptures—including the Estátua do Primeiro Ocidental a Pisar Solo Coreano by Vhils—and some great views of the 25 de Abril Bridge.
If the 25 de Abril Bridge looks familiar, you’re not imagining it—it was inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge and has a similar design. It’s a striking part of Lisbon’s skyline and named in honor of the Carnation Revolution, which restored democracy in Portugal.
You can’t walk across the bridge, but you can admire it from several great vantage points. One of the best is the Pilar 7 Bridge Experience, which gives you a close-up look from below and includes an observation deck with panoramic views. Admission is free with the Lisboa Card, and while the elevator is sometimes out of service, you can still climb the 300 steps to the top if you’re up for it.
The best spot to capture the image of Cristo Rei is through the bridge pillar.
LX Factory
Once an old industrial complex, LX Factory has been transformed into one of Lisbon’s trendiest spots. It’s packed with cafés, restaurants, shops, and creative spaces—perfect for lunch, dinner, or just wandering around. The street art is worth checking out too, with murals and installations tucked into corners throughout the area. It’s a great place to take a break, grab a bite, and soak in a different side of the city.
If you have had enough walking, you can walk to the Calvario stop and take the 15E tram back to Conde Barao Av. 24 Julho or further to Cais do Sodre
Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
The Time Out Market is a lively food hall filled with gourmet stalls offering everything from pizza and grilled meats to gelato, pastries, and cocktails. It’s a great spot to sample a variety of Portuguese and international flavors all in one place. Seating is mostly at long communal tables, so it’s casual and social. Yes, it’s touristy—but still worth a visit, especially if you’re hungry and want a lot of options in one stop.
Pink Street
Known for its bold color and lively atmosphere, Pink Street is one of Lisbon’s go-to spots for nightlife. Lined with bars, restaurants, and outdoor seating, it’s a great place to meet up with friends for drinks and soak in the energy of the city. It’s also a popular photo spot—especially from the pedestrian bridge above, which gives you a great view of the street below.
If you’re hoping to snap a clean photo of the pink pavement without crowds or tables, try to get there before 9:00 a.m.—it’s quiet, and the light is perfect.
Thanks for walking with me!
As you finish exploring the riverside sights, you’ll find yourself gradually reentering central Lisbon. From here, you can continue walking toward Cais do Sodré or Praça do Comércio, both great spots to end the day with a drink, a meal, or just a moment to relax by the water. If you’re ready to head elsewhere, public transport is nearby—including metro, tram, and train connections. Whether you walked the whole way or hopped on and off, I hope this route gave you a fresh look at this element of Lisbon’s history, energy, and charm.
If you enjoyed the route, found a hidden gem, or have ideas for improving the experience, I’d love to hear from you! Your insights help me improve future walks and inspire fellow travelers. Please rate this walk using the stars below — and feel free to leave a comment. Obrigado! — and happy exploring!
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Photo Credits
- Tram 15E – Photo by Alain GAVILLET from Chêne-Bougeries, Suisse – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
- Belem Tower – Photo by patano – licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Belem Discoveries – Photo by Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
- Jerónimos Monastery – Photo by Jakub Hałun – licensed under CC BY 4.0, source
- Pastel de Nata Pastéis de Belém – Photo by Yusuke Kawasaki from Tokyo, Japan – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
- National Coach Museum Belem – Photo by Harvey Barrison – licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- April 25 Bridge Belem – Photo by Deensel – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
- LX Factory Lisbon – Photo by Alex Lehner – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
- Time Out Market Lisbon – Photo by Ji Soo Song – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
- Pink Street Lisbon – Photo by Andrey Filippov from Moscow, Russia – licensed under CC BY 2.0, source
