Belém: Age of Discovery & Lisbon’s Maritime Glory Walking Tour

On this walk, we explore how ambition, navigation, and global exchange shaped both Portugal and the wider world. Along the Tagus River, you’ll encounter monuments, architecture, and stories that reflect this remarkable era.

Starting near the Museu dos Coches, we pass through Belém’s grand gardens before visiting highlights such as the Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Belém Tower — ending where ships once departed into the unknown. Along the way, we’ll also stop at the famous Pastéis de Belém.

Highlights
Museu dos Coches — world-renowned collection of royal carriages
Empire Square Garden — grand landscaped space in the heart of Belém
Thai Pavilion — symbol of Portugal’s historic global connections
Jardim Vasco da Gama — peaceful garden dedicated to explorers
Pastéis de Belém — home of Lisbon’s famous custard tarts
Church of Santa Maria de Belém — resting place of Vasco da Gama
Jerónimos Monastery — masterpiece of Manueline architecture
Monument to the Discoveries — tribute to Portugal’s explorers
Belém Tower — historic fortress guarding the river