Belém Tower Lisbon: Prices, Tickets and Information

Belém Tower Lisbon Tickets - 2026 Prices and Visitor Information

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What is Belém Tower in Lisbon?

• Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Lisbon's most famous landmarks and one of Portugal's most important historic monuments.
• A fortress that was built between 1514 and 1521 on the banks of the Tagus River to protect Lisbon's harbour and welcome ships returning from Portugal's Age of Discovery.
• Belém Tower reopened in May 2026 after completing a renovation

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Quick Information

• Belém Tower Address: Av. Brasília, 1400-038, Lisbn
• Opening Hours: Monday: Closed. All Other Days: 09:30 - 18:00
• Recommended Visit Duration: 45-90 minutes
• Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon

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Is Belém Tower Worth Visiting?

Belém Tower is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Portugal and offers an opportunity to see the country's maritime history.

• The tower is one of the best-preserved examples of Manueline architecture, so a must for architecture fans.
• If visitors enjoy UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Belém Tower is worth visiting
• It offers great views across the river, so perfect for photographers

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What Visitors Can See At Belém Tower

• Explore a 16th-century fortress overlooking the Tagus River
• The history of Portugal's Age of Discovery
• Climb through historic chambers connected by a spiral staircase
• Enjoy panoramic views across Lisbon and the waterfront
• Enjoy unique architectural details including maritime symbols, armillary spheres and ornate stone carvings
• Visit one of Portugal's most photographed landmarks
• See amazing views of the Tagus River

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About Belém Tower

Belém Tower, also sometimes known as the 'Tower of St. Vincent', is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lisbon that stands proudly on the northern bank of the Tagus River.

The tower was commissioned by King John II of Portugal in the 16th century to act as a defensive fortress for the city and to guard the entrance to the port of Lisbon.

Construction began in 1514 and it was completed around 1520, during the reign of King Manuel I.

The tower was built using local lioz limestone and remains remarkably well preserved more than 500 years after its construction.

Its designed with Manueline architecture, a style that was unique to Portugal during the late Gothic period and includes Renaissance influences as well as elements of maritime symbolism such as rope, anchors and other nautical motifs, which all reflect Portugal’s 'Age of Discovery' and maritime prowess from the time.

Visitors can see the famous rhinoceros gargoyle, believed to be inspired by the first rhinoceros seen in Portugal.

The tower’s façade is covered with intricate stone carvings and Manueline ornamentation.

Its strategic location at the mouth of the Tagus River gave it controlling access to the port and allowed it to effectively defend the city.

It consists of several levels including a bastion, watchtowers and battlements.

Another distinctive feature is a four-story keep which is topped with a terrace that offers incredible panoramic views of the river as well as the surrounding area.

The tower has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including military fortress, customs checkpoint, lighthouse, political prison, national monument and now one of the citys most treasured historic landmarks.

Belém Tower Highlights

• Architecture: The architecture which includes the ornate carvings.
• Facade: Spot the maritime references in the facade, as well as animals.
• Kings Hall: One of the most elegant rooms in the tower. See the Royal Coat of Arms built into the wall.
• War Relics: See the war time canons lined up in the lower bastion.
• Governor's Hall: Enjoy views of the river from the room.
• Chapel: Features beautiful architecture and carvings.
• Rooftop Terrace: Enjoy the views of the river from the terrace.

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