About this experience
Belém is located far from the historical center of Lisbon, but it is here that some of the brightest monuments of the capital are located. You will admire the architecture of the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, immerse yourself in the era of geographical discoveries. Visit Portugal's most famous pastry shop, cross the Golden Gate twin bridge in San Francisco, and see a replica of the Christ the Redeemer statue from Rio!
What to expect
We will meet you in the historical center of Lisbon and take you to explore the areas of Lisbon that are remote from the center but no less interesting.
You will visit:
- Marquis of Pombal Monument
- Lisbon's Eléctrico Fields
- Eduardo VII Park
- One of the city's highest viewpoints
- Parliament Building
- Estrela Park and Basilica
- We will then drive over the singing bridge – a replica of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. From the viewpoint near the Christ statue, we will enjoy the view of Lisbon and the Tagus River. And then we will head to explore the Belém neighborhood…
Elegant tower and the era of sailors
The famous Belém Tower is one of the main stops on our route. You will hear its history and understand why this fortification resembles more a princess's palace than a defensive fort.
Next, you will see all the famous sailors and explorers depicted on the Monument to the Discoveries. Voyages, adventures, treasures – I will tell you about a period that is important for both Portugal and the world. After all, sailors not only changed maps but also the worldview of that time.
During the same period, the beautiful Jerónimos Monastery was built – you will learn about the wealthiest Portuguese king Manuel and the navigator Vasco da Gama, whose fate is linked to the history of the monastery.
Visiting the Church of the Belém Virgin, you will see how the sarcophagi of celebrities from the 16th and 17th centuries are carried by elephants and also hear curious facts about Portuguese architecture. By the walls of the presidential residence, we will recall the lives of Portuguese kings and discuss the significance of the palace for 18th-century Portugal.
Pastéis de Belém: sweetness secrets
Afterwards, we will visit one of the oldest pastry shops in Lisbon: you will have a tasting of sweets prepared according to monastery recipes. You will see the kitchen where the most delicious pastries are born, try to decipher the secret recipe, understand the difference between pastel and pastéis, as well as between 'Belém' and 'nata'.
Organizational details
- No additional expenses are expected
- Your tour will be led by me or another guide from our team
