About this experience
During this walk, I will tell you about the times when distant lands and the sea horizon lured the Portuguese, and the world that opened before their eyes turned Portugal into one of the richest countries in Europe. We will walk through the remarkable places of the Belem district, talk about Portuguese explorers and the innovations they brought to Lisbon from their travels. And in the end, we will indulge ourselves with the famous pastry baskets that are prepared in the best bakery in Belem.
What to Expect
During the Age of the Great Geographic Discoveries, Portuguese ships sailed the oceans, and Lisbon became the center of an empire scattered across the globe. Expeditions were organized from the Belem district along the Tagus River to the Atlantic Ocean one after another from the 15th century.
Under the influence of what was seen beyond the ocean, in the early 16th century in Portugal, an exquisite decorative architectural style called 'Manueline' emerged, embodying new impressions in exotic plants, ropes, and palm-column motifs.
We will take a leisurely walk and see many unique monuments and museums of Lisbon: the defensive structure protecting the mouth of the Tagus River - Belem Tower, as well as Lisbon's 'business card' - the Jeronimos Monastery, which embodies the greatness of the Portuguese Empire (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Monument to the Discoveries and Portuguese discoveries of the second half of the 20th century, and the unique collection of the National Coach Museum.
You will see:
- Belem Tower;
- Monument to the Discoveries and Portuguese discoveries;
- Empire Square and Jeronimos Monastery (closed on Mondays);
- National Coach Museum (closed on Mondays);
- Belem bakery with its famous pastry baskets filled with custard cream.
Organizational Details
Entrance tickets and transportation (approximately 20 euros) are not included in the tour price.
