Belém Tower
Ultimate visitor’s guide to tickets, hours
Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) is a 16th-century Manueline fortress perched along the Tagus River in Lisbon, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This iconic Tower offers visitors the chance to climb its spiral staircase, explore its historic rooms adorned with intricate Manueline carvings, and enjoy stunning views of the Tagus River from its rooftop terrace.
This guide provides all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Belém Tower.
Top Tickets
Book your Walking Tour of Belém Tower and explore with a knowledgeable guide. For a more intimate experience, opt for the Small Group Tour. For a flexible sightseeing experience, hop on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for unlimited access to top Lisbon attractions.
The best Belém Tower tickets & tours
The interior of Belém Tower is currently closed for renovations, but visitors can still enjoy stunning exterior views from the riverfront promenade. The tower is expected to reopen in spring 2026.
Belém Tower Walking Tour + Jeronimos Monastery
This walking tour is an ideal “Belém in a nutshell” experience while the Tower interior is closed. You visit the Tower for exterior views and photos.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Includes:
- Scenic views of Belém Tower from the outside
- Guided walk through the Belém district, including the Monument to the Discoveries
- Skip-the-line access to Jerónimos Monastery
- Pastel de Belém tasting
Ticket Price: €70
Book This TourSmall Group Belém Tour with Jeronimos Monastery
On this small-group tour, you can explore the Jerónimos Monastery (entrance included), Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos), enjoy the delicious Pastel de Belém, and finish your journey with a visit to the Belém Tower.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Includes:
- Visit Belém Tower’s exterior
- Guided tour of Jerónimos Monastery
- Pastéis de Belém tasting
- Guided visit to the Monument to the Discoveries
Ticket Prices
Adult (25-64 years): €59
Youth (13-24 years): €49
Child (up to 12 years): €30
Senior (65+ years): €49
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Hop aboard Lisbon’s iconic yellow bus, a must-do for every visitor. Enjoy free entry to top attractions like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, along with unlimited public transportation (metro, trams, buses) to easily reach Belém and other sights.
Duration: 24 or 48 hours
Includes:
- Unlimited access to open-top buses with 16+ stops
- Belém district route featuring Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Monument to the Discoveries, and National Coach Museum
- Audioguide available in multiple languages
Ticket Price: €22
Book This TourInsider Tip: Lisbon’s iconic red bus offers a wider range of routes and free Wi-Fi on board.
What you can see in Belém Tower
- Floor-by-floor: Governor’s Hall → King’s Hall → Audience Chamber → Chapel → Roof terrace.
- Highlights: Bulwark, riverfront bastion/casemates; you can see the watchtower silhouette, and the Spiral staircase.
- Photospots: Get the best photo angles from the pedestrian bridge and riverwalk.
- Style cues to spot: Armillary spheres, Cross of Christ, royal arms, Moorish loggia details.
What’s Inside Belém Tower
Inside Belém Tower, visitors can explore several historic rooms and features that showcase its role as a defense fortress and symbol of the Age of Discoveries. Here are the key highlights.
The Governor’s Hall
The main area used for official functions and defense strategy, offering a glimpse into the military history of the tower.
King’s Hall
A regal space with beautiful views of the river and intricate architecture that highlights Portugal’s Manueline style.
The Chapel
A small, quaint space where visitors can learn about the religious significance of the tower during its military and maritime operations.
The Top Terrace
Climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the Tagus River, the nearby Discoveries Monument, and the iconic 25th of April Bridge.
The Tower’s Dungeons
Explore the lower levels, where prisoners were once held. The dimly lit rooms give a sense of the tower’s role in Lisbon’s defense history.
Manueline Architecture and Carvings
Intricate designs throughout the tower, including detailed stonework and maritime symbols, reflect Portugal’s golden era of exploration.
Get the Lisbon Card to save on top sights — free entry to Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower plus 50+ more, also unlimited public transport (metro, trams incl. 28E, buses, and CP trains).
Opening hours
The Belem Tower is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, 09:30–18:00. The last entry is at 17:30. It is closed on Mondays & select holidays.
However, it is currently undergoing maintenance and is closed throughout. It is expected to open for visitors in Spring 2026.
Getting there
- Tram: 15E from Cais do Sodré/ Praça da Figueira. Check live tram stops.
- Train: Cascais Line to Belém station, then a ~10–15 min walk.
- Bus: You can take the Carris bus lines 728, 714, and 727. Get your route. These lines stop near the Jerónimos Monastery, which is a short 10-15 minute walk from the Tower.
Practical tips
- The Lisboa Card grants free entry to the Belém Tower.
- Arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the last entry.
- You can get the best wide shots from the small footbridge and the east bank.
- Visit early morning for soft light and at sunset for silhouette shots.
- Weekends are busier. Early morning has low crowds.
- The waterfront can be breezy; we recommend packing a layer.
- There are no lifts to the upper floors.
- Narrow spiral stairs and tight spaces may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility.
- Expect red/green flow control and bottlenecks at peak times due to the single narrow spiral staircase.
Where to Eat Near Belém Tower
After exploring the historic Belém Tower, indulge in some of Lisbon’s finest culinary offerings nearby. Here are the top dining spots to consider.
1. Pastéis de Belém
A must-visit for the iconic Portuguese custard tarts, known as pastéis de nata. Get directions.
2. O Frade
A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant offering modern interpretations of Alentejo cuisine. Don’t miss their signature rice dishes, such as rice with lobster or duck. Get directions.
3. Guelra
A chic seafood spot near the monuments in Belém, serving creative dishes like Bacalhau³ (salted cod three ways) and tuna katsu sandwiches. The two-storey restaurant features a leafy terrace for al fresco dining. Get directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tower open in 2025?
The Tower’s interior is temporarily closed for construction works. Exterior views from the riverfront promenade are still possible. It is expected to reopen to the public in spring 2026.
Is Belém Tower free with the Lisboa Card?
Yes, you can visit the Belém Tower with the Lisbon city card.
How long do I need to visit the Tower?
The exterior photo stop will require 15–30 minutes, while the interior visit takes ~45–75 minutes, depending on the queues.
Is Belém Tower free on Sunday?
Yes, there is free entry to the Belém Tower on Sundays.
