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Tower of Belém: tribute to the explorers

Although it is located just outside of downtown Lisbon, the Tower of Belém on the Tagus River is a must-see attraction for visitors. Built as a fortress to defend the nearby Hieronymites monastery, the tower is a proud reminder of the discovery voyages of Vasco da Gama and the grandeur of the former Portuguese colonial empire.

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A graceful Manueline construction

The Tower of Belém has another important historic significance: it is the only construction that was originally built in the elegant late-Gothic Manueline architecture style. Other Manueline monuments were built in a Gothic style and later rebuilt, but this 35-metre-high tower was originally decorated with typical Manueline elements, such as pillars in the form of braided ropes, richly adorned ribbed vaults and gargoyles in the form of animal heads. The Tower of Belém is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon. Especially around sunset, the white limestone monument is bathed in a golden glow, making for a very photogenic image. Enjoy an unforgettable view from the roof of the tower, looking out over the Tagus River, the 2,277-metre suspension bridge and the statue of Christ on the far shore (103 metres high, including the pillar).

The tomb of Vasco da Gama

The trip to the neighbourhood of Santa Maria de Belém is especially worthwhile as you will be able to visit 2 other top attractions. Close to the tower you will find the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a 52-metre-high monument in the shape of a ship with billowing sails. This monument depicts the most important Portuguese historic figures. On the bow stands Henry the Navigator (Infante Dom Henrique de Avis). Contrary to what his name suggests, the king was not a great navigator himself, but he launched and financed the great discovery voyages. Another nearby attraction is the magnificent Hieronymites monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) with the tomb of Vasco da Gama.

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Culinary

Family fun

Arts & Culture

Culinary

Bacalhau, sardinhas, feijoada and pastéis: Portugal is famous for its delectable cuisine. This is the perfect excuse to turn your weekend in Lisbon into a culinary expedition, with a visit to a 19th-century food market on Friday, a gourmet tour on Saturday and a Portuguese cooking lesson and culinary feast on Sunday. Just add a bottle of vinho verde and you are all set. Bom proveito!

Family fun

Dolphins and flamingos in the Bay of Setúbal, a fairytale castle in Sintra or a dozen golden beaches in Cascais - families can really enjoy a day trip outside the city of Lisbon. There is a lot to see and do. We have outlined 3 child-friendly outings within an hour travelling time from the capital.

Arts & Culture

The vast exhibition area that was built for Expo '98 to the east of Lisbon has now become a popular attraction for those enjoying art and architecture, fine dining, shopping and leisure. A visit to the expansive and futuristic Parque das Nações is a welcome respite from the bustling city centre.

Arts & Culture

The creaking yellow vintage trams of the Carris public transportation company look as if they belong in a museum. These are one of the best ways to get around the city. Tram 28 is famous, taking riders on a 40-minute trip up (or down) the hill through old neighbourhoods such as Graça, Alfama and Baixa, along many historical highlights, including the cathedral and the castle. Todos a bordo!

Arts & Culture

Laundry hangs from a wrought iron balcony. The melodious cries of a fado singer resound down the street. Colourful tiles adorn the façades of the tall houses. Alfama, the district between the Castle of São Jorge and the river Tagus, is perhaps the loveliest part of Lisbon.