What To Do In Lisbon For A Day: A Unique Side of the City in Belém
If you’re wondering what to do in Lisbon for a day, the district of Belém deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Instead of spending your whole trip ticking off Lisbon’s most popular spots, set aside one day to explore Belém.
This riverside neighborhood offers a different side of the city, one shaped by explorers, grand monuments, and some of the best bites in town.
Located in the southwest corner of the city, Belém has played a significant role in Portuguese history.
It sits at the point where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic Ocean, a natural departure point for explorers during the Age of Discovery.
In 1497, King Manuel I of Portugal sent Vasco da Gama and his fleet from Belém in search of a sea route to India.
While the port is no longer a hub for merchant ships, it remains a lively spot for sailing and river cruises.
Today, Belém is known as Lisbon’s museum district and is home to several of the city’s most iconic monuments.
With three excellent art museums and several historical museums, there’s plenty to explore.
Architecture lovers will especially enjoy the Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Portuguese Gothic architecture (also known as Manueline).
Strolling along the river offers even more to admire.
You can enjoy the grandeur of the Monastery and the park in front of it.
Not far away are the Rose Palace and a cluster of charming 16th-century houses, many of which have been transformed into cafés and restaurants.
It’s the perfect place to relax with a cold drink and enjoy the sun and views of the Tagus.
Getting to Belém from Lisbon
Belém is not far from Lisbon city center.
Public buses and trains are easily accessible from Avenida da Liberdade or from Cais do Sodre near the Tourism Office.
If using public transportation plan for a 45 – 60 minute ride due to traffic.
- By bus – Lines 727 & 728 will both take you there in about 45 minutes ($3-11)
- Train line 19001 will take you to Belém, also in around 45 minutes ($1-13)
- Taxi – fastest, around 10 minutes ($14-18)
- Hop-on-Hop-off Bus – several tour operators offer multi-day passes that include a stop at Belém as part of their route. If you’re on a budget this might be a good alternative to move around Lisbon.
What to do in Belém if You Like History
The history of Portugal, and especially that of Belém, is deeply tied to the sea and the spirit of exploration.
Belém Tower
Start your visit at the Belém Tower, one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
Rising like a fairytale fortress from the edge of the Tagus River, the tower was originally built to defend the city’s harbor.
Its ornate stonework and strategic location have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Lisbon.
Monument of the Discoveries
As you continue your stroll along the river, you’ll soon spot the Monument of the Discoveries.
Inaugurated in 1960 to commemorate 500 years since the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, this striking, ship-shaped monument pays tribute to the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
Prince Henry led a sculpted procession of 32 explorers, artists, and scientists who helped shape the era.
Inside, you’ll often find rotating exhibitions worth checking out.
Jerónimos Monastery
Just a short walk inland brings you to a peaceful park, where the spectacular Jerónimos Monastery rises in the distance.
No visit to Belém is complete without stepping inside this architectural masterpiece.
Built during the Age of Discovery, the monastery is a prime example of Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) style.
What distinguishes this architectural style is the intricate carvings inspired by maritime exploration.
The church was once a place of prayer for sailors departing on long voyages; and today, it holds the tomb of Vasco da Gama himself.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
Location: Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa
Admission: €10 for adults, free for children under 12 (free entry on the first Sunday of each month; church entrance is always free)
National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches)
Another historical highlight is the National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches), one of my personal favorites during my visit to Belém
This was an unexpected gem, I had no idea how elaborate and artistic carriages could be until I walked into this museum.
The museum houses a remarkable collection of royal and ceremonial coaches, some dating back to the 16th century.
It’s a beautiful glimpse into how transportation, artistry, and status intersected in Portuguese royal history.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
Location: Avenida da Índia 136, 1300-300 Lisboa
Admission: €15 for adults, free for children under 12 (ticket includes access to the Royal Riding School)
What to do in Belém if You Love Art
Belém is also a perfect destination for art lovers.
It offers several museums that showcase everything from cutting-edge installations to classic works in historic settings.
The MAAT
Start with MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, one of Lisbon’s modern icons.
This striking, shell-shaped building sits along the riverfront and invites visitors to walk on its undulating rooftop for panoramic views of the Tagus and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Inside, MAAT explores the intersection of art, technology, and architecture through rotating exhibitions by both Portuguese and international artists.
It sits next to a former power plant, also part of the museum, which features additional exhibitions in an atmospheric industrial space.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
Location: Av. Brasília, Central Tejo, 1300-598 Lisboa
Admission: €9 for adults; free for under 18s; discounts available for students and seniors
The MAC/CCB
If you crave modern art, head to the Museu de Arte Contemporânea – MAC/CCB.
This museum houses one of Europe’s top modern art collections, including works by Picasso, Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and other major international artists.
The focus spans from the 20th century to the present, with a strong emphasis on European and American art.
Located in the Cultural Center of Belém, it’s an essential stop for contemporary art enthusiasts.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Location: Praça do Império, 1449-003 Lisboa (inside the CCB complex)
Admission: €6 for adults; free for under 18s; combination tickets and discounts available
The MACAM Museum
If you prefer your art with a bit of baroque flair, then visit Palácio Anjos – MACAM Museum.
Housed in a palace built in 1701 for a noble family, this gem combines history with contemporary creativity.
The main building hosts a permanent collection featuring leading Portuguese modern and contemporary artists.
You’ll find art from Paula Rego and Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso alongside select international works.
A modern wing across the garden is home to temporary exhibitions.
The museum even incorporates a former chapel, now transformed into a bar, stage, and multifunctional exhibition space.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
Location: Avenida Brasília, Doca de Alcântara Norte, 1300-598 Lisboa
Admission: €6 for adults; free for under 18s
Planning Your Perfect Day in Belém
Belém is a fantastic choice for spending a day in Lisbon.
Whether you’re into art, history, architecture, or simply enjoying a scenic stroll along the river, this charming district has something for everyone.
From world-class museums to iconic monuments and beautiful riverfront views, Belém offers a rich and memorable experience just outside the city center.
Have you visited Belém? What was your favorite spot?
Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear about your experience!
