Torre de Belém Photos
Recommended Reviews - Torre de Belém
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
The Tower of Belém was built from 1514-1520 to protect Lisbon. The tower has four vaulted stories and a bastion that held artillery. Today the tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal's former maritime and colonial power. My husband and I walked to the base of this tower, and we later saw the tower from a ship in the water. Unfortunately, the tower was being renovated, so we saw a net over the exterior and did not tour the interior. We could see more of the bastion than the four stories. I read that the tower was built from limestone mostly in the Portuguese Manueline style but that it also incorporates other architectural features such as Moorish minarets.
This is one of many monuments on the riverside that pays homage to Portugal's history and their explorers as well. It's a nice area and the tower was majestic though sadly we were part of the many who visited recently during renovations so the scaffolding covered most of the structure as my photo indicates. However, the area was pleasant with plenty of tourists and a little marketplace nearby that you can buy some modestly priced but mediocre quality souvenirs. I was told by our local tour guide to be careful with our belongings here as there were reports of pickpockets I was was somewhat neurotic when I was walking around but I didn't see anything during my visit - but just flagging here as an FYI.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.]
2 of 2 Yelp reviews. Cut and pasted from the internet: "The monument celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery (or "Age of Exploration") during the 15th and 16th centuries." Quality/Quantity - A must visit, but we have been here so often and only stopped by because we had an all day train pass; see other reviews. So much history, just "Google" it and read. Kid friendly, so many field trips. Ambiance - Beautiful monument. Beautiful surroundings. Other tourist sites to visit. An easy train ride and a short walk. Service - Self service. Price - Free. Owner Comment - Congrats on all your success since 1939. read more
Nice tower built to protect Lisbon along the Tagus river. There are 5 stories including the level you walk onto the structure. Panoramic views all around overlooking the river and park. I was able to purchase tickets day of and enter early even when tickets were sold out for the current time slot. Climbing the tower is ~20 steps per level and you can walk up 3. There are a few descriptors at each level when climbing the tower to describe the function of each room. read more
UNESCO World Heritage site The tower was completed in 1519. It served as a fortress and a ceremonial gateway for explorers, customs point, a lighthouse, and a political prison. Unfortunately, it was being renovated when we were there. read more
9 months ago
The Tower of Belém was built from 1514-1520 to protect Lisbon. The tower has four vaulted stories and a bastion that held artillery. Today the tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal's former maritime and colonial power. My husband and I walked to the base of this tower, and we later saw the tower from a ship in the water. Unfortunately, the tower was being renovated, so we saw a net over the exterior and did not tour the interior. We could see more of the bastion than the four stories. I read that the tower was built from limestone mostly in the Portuguese Manueline style but that it also incorporates other architectural features such as Moorish minarets. read more
This is one of many monuments on the riverside that pays homage to Portugal's history and their explorers as well. It's a nice area and the tower was majestic though sadly we were part of the many who visited recently during renovations so the scaffolding covered most of the structure as my photo indicates. However, the area was pleasant with plenty of tourists and a little marketplace nearby that you can buy some modestly priced but mediocre quality souvenirs. I was told by our local tour guide to be careful with our belongings here as there were reports of pickpockets I was was somewhat neurotic when I was walking around but I didn't see anything during my visit - but just flagging here as an FYI. read more
2 years ago
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. read more
2 years ago
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! read more
3 years ago
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. read more
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. read more
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. read more
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! read more
3 years ago
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. read more
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! read more
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. read more
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.] read more
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! read more
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! read more
4 years ago
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. read more
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. read more
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!! read more
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. read more
3 years ago
Cool place to visit and head up to the very top for more views. History is rich and amazing here. read more
2 years ago
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. read more
7 years ago
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. read more
7 years ago
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! read more
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. read more
3 years ago
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. read more
4 years ago
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. read more
5 years ago
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. read more
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. read more
7 years ago
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. read more
3 years ago
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! read more
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. read more
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. read more
Page 1 of 4
More info about Torre de Belém
Torre de Belém Reviews in Other Languages
Review Highlights - Torre de Belém
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
9 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
2 years ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
9 years ago
15 years ago
8 years ago
8 years ago
Torre de Belém - landmarks - Updated July 2026
Browse Brands
Browse Articles
People who viewed Torre de Belém also viewed
Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena
141 reviews
Quinta da Regaleira
107 reviews
Praça do Comércio
52 reviews
Baixa, Rossio - Baixa - Chiado
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
149 reviews
Belém, Belém - Restelo
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
49 reviews
Belém, Belém - Restelo
Castelo de S. Jorge
155 reviews
Castelo, Mouraria - Castelo - Alfama
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
12 reviews
Graça, São Vicente - Graça
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
10 reviews
Alfama, Mouraria - Castelo - Alfama
Elevador de Santa Justa
113 reviews
Rossio - Baixa - Chiado, Baixa
Arco da Rua Augusta
25 reviews
Baixa, Rossio - Baixa - Chiado