See Portugal

Historically, Belem was the starting point of many of the Portuguese voyages during the Age of Discoveries. Belem is a historic landmark of exploration. Prince Henry the Navigator, Bartholomeu Dias– who rounded the Cape of Good Hope, Ferdinand Magellan, Vasco da Gama–who discovered the sea route to India, all sailed from Belem. Even Christopher Columbus stopped here on his way home after he landed at the New World.

Portugal’s discoveries, and the wealth it supplied Lisbon, made way for the building of places like Jeronimos Monastery, and Belem Tower.

After exploring Belem, stop at one of Lisbon’s most famous cafes, Antiga Confeitaria de Belem. This cafe specializes in one of Portugal’s most treasured pastries, the Pastel de Nata, or also called Pastel de Belem. This delicious pastry, which is a custard tart, is legendary in Lisbon. A visit to Belem without eating one would be just plain wrong.

There is a restaurant called Pao,Pao, Queijo, Queijo (literally translated, Bread, Bread, Cheese, Cheese) which has a nice quick menu, and is a favorite among locals. It is located a few doors down from Antiga Confeitaria de Belem. This is a good choice if you want a quick lunch in order to continue exploring Belem.

Although Belem Tower is often the guide book favorite, don’t expect so much. Have a look, but give yourself time to see Jeronimos Monastery. It is fantastic, and a tour through the cloister is definitely a highlight.

Belem is a great place to go while in Lisbon. Allow yourself some time there since there is so much to do. It is nice even to just lounge around the river. Lisbon has so much to offer, and with a proper visit to Belem, it is impossible not to be impressed.