Custom Walk in Lisbon, Portugal by johanajulieta_8cfca created on 2025-02-12
Guide Location: Portugal » Lisbon
Guide Type: Custom Walk
# of Sights: 5
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Share Key: KXRPY
Guide Type: Custom Walk
# of Sights: 5
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Share Key: KXRPY
How It Works
Please retrieve this walk in the 51爆料网 app. Once done, the app will guide you from one tour stop to the next as if you had a personal tour guide. If you created the walk on this website or come to the page via a link, please follow the instructions below to retrieve the walk in the app.
Retrieve This Walk in App
Step 1. Download the app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" on Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2. In the 51爆料网 app, download(or launch) the guide "Lisbon Map and Walking Tours".
Step 3. Tap the menu button located at upper right corner of the "Walks" screen and select "Retrieve custom walk". Enter the share key: KXRPY
1) Torre de Belem (Belem Tower) (must see)
Accessed via a narrow pathway extending into the river, the Tower of Bel茅m stands as an impressive symbol of Lisbon and holds the distinction of being a designated World Heritage Site. It represents one of Portugal's purest examples of Manueline architecture, a style prevalent during the reign of King Manuel I. Its windows and staircases are adorned with arches and decorative motifs that commemorate Portugal's explorations in the New World.
Originally constructed as a fortress on what was once an island in the middle of the Tagus River, its purpose was to safeguard the entrance to the port. The construction spanned five years and was completed in 1520. Today, the striking chalk-white tower stands near the river's northern bank, a testament to the shifting of the river's course following the earthquake of 1755.
Present-day visitors have the freedom to explore the tower's different levels, which include a terrace facing the river, once a vantage point for artillery firing. Ascending a steep spiral staircase spanning four levels, each offering a unique framed view of the river, brings you to a top terrace that provides a breezy panorama of Bel茅m. You can also venture into the dungeons, a low-ceilinged chamber originally used for storing gunpowder, and later notorious for housing political prisoners during the 19th century under rule Dom Miguel's rule.
Tip:
The biggest draw here is ascending to the summit via the spiral staircase. Unless you're fortunate enough to find a short queue upon arrival, it's advisable to appreciate the tower's exterior garden rather than spending an extended period waiting to enter. However, if you are determined to explore the interior, it's recommended to purchase your ticket in advance online or from a kiosk located in the nearby park. Using a Lisbon Card may still require you to stand in line like everyone else, but at least you won't need to pay the admission fee!
Originally constructed as a fortress on what was once an island in the middle of the Tagus River, its purpose was to safeguard the entrance to the port. The construction spanned five years and was completed in 1520. Today, the striking chalk-white tower stands near the river's northern bank, a testament to the shifting of the river's course following the earthquake of 1755.
Present-day visitors have the freedom to explore the tower's different levels, which include a terrace facing the river, once a vantage point for artillery firing. Ascending a steep spiral staircase spanning four levels, each offering a unique framed view of the river, brings you to a top terrace that provides a breezy panorama of Bel茅m. You can also venture into the dungeons, a low-ceilinged chamber originally used for storing gunpowder, and later notorious for housing political prisoners during the 19th century under rule Dom Miguel's rule.
Tip:
The biggest draw here is ascending to the summit via the spiral staircase. Unless you're fortunate enough to find a short queue upon arrival, it's advisable to appreciate the tower's exterior garden rather than spending an extended period waiting to enter. However, if you are determined to explore the interior, it's recommended to purchase your ticket in advance online or from a kiosk located in the nearby park. Using a Lisbon Card may still require you to stand in line like everyone else, but at least you won't need to pay the admission fee!
2) Mosteiro dos Jer贸nimos (Hieronymites Monastery) (must see)
The Hieronymites (or "Jer贸nimos") Monastery was built in 1601 to commemorate the historic journey of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama and to express gratitude to the Virgin Mary for his pioneering achievement as the first European to reach India by sea. Construction spanned precisely a century, after which it was entrusted to the San Jer贸nimo order, whose mission was to offer prayers for the King and provide guidance to sailors embarking on voyages to uncover new sea routes and lands. In 1983, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Monument, serving as an enduring symbol of Portugal's power and affluence during the Age of Discovery.
Featuring the finest examples of what came to be known as Manueline style, the monastery encompasses various elements that were pivotal during the Golden Age of the rapidly expanding Portuguese Empire. These include intricate nautical motifs, such as ropes and compasses, carved into the pastel-colored limestone. Notable architectural features encompass the remarkable double-layered cloister, ornate arches that encircle the cloister's open passageway, the Church of Santa Maria, adorned with a fitting statue of Saint Mary atop its imposing southern portal, the monastery's refectory, the Lion Fountain located outside, and the final resting place of Portugal's eminent poets, explorers, monarchs, and statesmen. From Vasco da Gama to Lu铆s de Cam玫es, and from King Manuel I to the leading modernist, Fernando Pessoa, all these elements and more make it well worth dedicating a separate visit of at least 2 to 3 hours.
Why You Should Visit:
Unexpected beauty for a monastery! One could easily spend hours admiring the intricate stone decorations. Even during peak visitor times, it maintains a sense of spaciousness, and there's an excellent exhibit providing explanations in both Portuguese and English.
Tip:
When facing the main entrance, the ticket queue is located on the LEFT. Alternatively, consider purchasing a 'joint' ticket at the nearby Archaeological Museum, which costs 鈧�2 more but provides access to both the monastery and the museum. This can save you time by bypassing the often lengthy queue for the 'monastery-only' ticket.
Featuring the finest examples of what came to be known as Manueline style, the monastery encompasses various elements that were pivotal during the Golden Age of the rapidly expanding Portuguese Empire. These include intricate nautical motifs, such as ropes and compasses, carved into the pastel-colored limestone. Notable architectural features encompass the remarkable double-layered cloister, ornate arches that encircle the cloister's open passageway, the Church of Santa Maria, adorned with a fitting statue of Saint Mary atop its imposing southern portal, the monastery's refectory, the Lion Fountain located outside, and the final resting place of Portugal's eminent poets, explorers, monarchs, and statesmen. From Vasco da Gama to Lu铆s de Cam玫es, and from King Manuel I to the leading modernist, Fernando Pessoa, all these elements and more make it well worth dedicating a separate visit of at least 2 to 3 hours.
Why You Should Visit:
Unexpected beauty for a monastery! One could easily spend hours admiring the intricate stone decorations. Even during peak visitor times, it maintains a sense of spaciousness, and there's an excellent exhibit providing explanations in both Portuguese and English.
Tip:
When facing the main entrance, the ticket queue is located on the LEFT. Alternatively, consider purchasing a 'joint' ticket at the nearby Archaeological Museum, which costs 鈧�2 more but provides access to both the monastery and the museum. This can save you time by bypassing the often lengthy queue for the 'monastery-only' ticket.
3) Jardim Botanico Tropical (Tropical Botanical Garden)
Also referred to as the Jardim do Ultramar, this serene park, adorned with tranquil ponds, graceful waterfowl, and resplendent peacocks, curiously seems to attract a relatively modest number of visitors. Conceived at the inception of the 20th century with the primary purpose of serving as the research hub for the Institute for Tropical Sciences, it adopts more the character of an arboreal sanctuary than a conventional flower garden. Its central focus revolves around the cultivation of rare and imperiled tropical and subtropical trees and flora.
Among the most striking specimens are the enigmatic dragon trees, indigenous to the Canary Islands and Madeira, monkey puzzle trees hailing from South America, and a majestic boulevard of Washington palms. Announcing itself through an impressive gateway that evokes traditional Chinese architectural aesthetics, a delightful Chinese-inspired garden beckons with its meandering streams, picturesque bridges, and vibrant hibiscus blooms, which represented Macau in the Exhibition of the Portuguese World in 1940.
Neighboring this verdant haven, the research facilities find their abode within the Pal谩cio dos Condes da Calheta, whose interior unfolds an exquisite tapestry of 'azulejos' spanning three centuries.
Why You Should Visit:
With its lush hothouses, placid ponds, and towering palm sentinels, it constitutes an ideal locale for a leisurely, shaded promenade.
Tip:
Tucked away in the southeastern corner lies the official residence of the President ("Presid锚ncia da Rep煤blica"), adorned in a rosy hue. On Saturdays, it opens its opulent state chambers for guided tours, with entrance facilitated through Pra莽a Afonso de Albuquerque. Operating hours are from 10:30am to 4:30pm, and admission is 鈧�5.
Among the most striking specimens are the enigmatic dragon trees, indigenous to the Canary Islands and Madeira, monkey puzzle trees hailing from South America, and a majestic boulevard of Washington palms. Announcing itself through an impressive gateway that evokes traditional Chinese architectural aesthetics, a delightful Chinese-inspired garden beckons with its meandering streams, picturesque bridges, and vibrant hibiscus blooms, which represented Macau in the Exhibition of the Portuguese World in 1940.
Neighboring this verdant haven, the research facilities find their abode within the Pal谩cio dos Condes da Calheta, whose interior unfolds an exquisite tapestry of 'azulejos' spanning three centuries.
Why You Should Visit:
With its lush hothouses, placid ponds, and towering palm sentinels, it constitutes an ideal locale for a leisurely, shaded promenade.
Tip:
Tucked away in the southeastern corner lies the official residence of the President ("Presid锚ncia da Rep煤blica"), adorned in a rosy hue. On Saturdays, it opens its opulent state chambers for guided tours, with entrance facilitated through Pra莽a Afonso de Albuquerque. Operating hours are from 10:30am to 4:30pm, and admission is 鈧�5.
4) Pasteis de Belem (Belem Pastries)
During Portuguese medieval history, the country's monasteries and convents were renowned for their ability to produce significant quantities of eggs, with a particular demand for their egg whites, which were highly sought after for various purposes, including starching clothes (such as the habits worn by nuns) and for wine production, especially in the clarification of wines like Porto. Interestingly, these religious institutions often found themselves with an abundance of egg yolks, which led to the development of numerous sweet pastry recipes throughout Portugal, including the iconic 'past茅is de nata' 鈥� small pies filled with cream that are believed to have originated before the 18th century, attributed to Catholic monks at the Jer贸nimos Monastery.
However the expulsion of religious orders and the subsequent closure of many religious establishments following the 1820 Liberal Revolution brought about a change in the production of 'past茅is de nata'. This culinary tradition was relocated to the nearby Casa Past茅is de Bel茅m, giving rise to the popular name "Past茅is de Bel茅m" due to its association with the parish of Santa Maria de Bel茅m. To safeguard the unique and secret recipe, former religious clerics took the step of patenting and officially registering the confection. They also entered into a partnership with Antiga Confeiteira de Bel茅m, Lda. to continue crafting these pastries. The secret recipe was entrusted to five master pastry chefs, who preserved the original formula under the Oficina do Segredo, later passing it on to their descendants.
Since 1837, both locals and tourists exploring Lisbon have been drawn to this bakery to savor fresh-from-the-oven 'past茅is', sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar. Their popularity and affordability normally result in long lines, so rather than waiting for a table, you might as well take the standing option at the bar or order to go (separate line; 4/6/10/12 pieces). With its original furniture and charming old-world ambiance, the location is outstanding, so consider arriving early to fully relish this experience in a tranquil setting.
However the expulsion of religious orders and the subsequent closure of many religious establishments following the 1820 Liberal Revolution brought about a change in the production of 'past茅is de nata'. This culinary tradition was relocated to the nearby Casa Past茅is de Bel茅m, giving rise to the popular name "Past茅is de Bel茅m" due to its association with the parish of Santa Maria de Bel茅m. To safeguard the unique and secret recipe, former religious clerics took the step of patenting and officially registering the confection. They also entered into a partnership with Antiga Confeiteira de Bel茅m, Lda. to continue crafting these pastries. The secret recipe was entrusted to five master pastry chefs, who preserved the original formula under the Oficina do Segredo, later passing it on to their descendants.
Since 1837, both locals and tourists exploring Lisbon have been drawn to this bakery to savor fresh-from-the-oven 'past茅is', sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar. Their popularity and affordability normally result in long lines, so rather than waiting for a table, you might as well take the standing option at the bar or order to go (separate line; 4/6/10/12 pieces). With its original furniture and charming old-world ambiance, the location is outstanding, so consider arriving early to fully relish this experience in a tranquil setting.
5) Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia - MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology)
Perched by the tranquil riverside, the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, often referred to as MAAT, exudes an aura of modernity and sophistication. Its profound dedication to the realm of contemporary art, predominantly of Portuguese origin, harmoniously intertwines with the exploration of modern architectural marvels and technological wonders. This bastion of creativity resides within an architectural masterpiece, a creation of the illustrious London-based architect, Amanda Levete. It presents a striking juxtaposition to its neighbor, the renowned Lisbon power station, a symbiotic union that forms an integral part of this complex.
A visit to MAAT unfolds as a multisensory journey, offering not only a glimpse into the realm of artistic innovation but also an opportunity to explore the iconic power station. Furthermore, the museum's architectural ingenuity reveals itself atop its undulating pedestrian roof, which unveils breathtaking panoramas of Lisbon's cityscape and the meandering Tagus River.
In addition to its ever-evolving array of avant-garde temporary exhibitions, MAAT boasts the Pedro Cabrita Reis Collection, which comprises an impressive assembly of approximately 400 artistic creations crafted by over 70 artists, all originating from the latter stages of the 20th century.
A visit to MAAT unfolds as a multisensory journey, offering not only a glimpse into the realm of artistic innovation but also an opportunity to explore the iconic power station. Furthermore, the museum's architectural ingenuity reveals itself atop its undulating pedestrian roof, which unveils breathtaking panoramas of Lisbon's cityscape and the meandering Tagus River.
In addition to its ever-evolving array of avant-garde temporary exhibitions, MAAT boasts the Pedro Cabrita Reis Collection, which comprises an impressive assembly of approximately 400 artistic creations crafted by over 70 artists, all originating from the latter stages of the 20th century.
