5 (1501)
Lisbon
Belém Walking Tour: Lisbon's Age of Discoveries
150
Overview
Age of Discoveries Walking Tour in Belém, Lisbon, takes guests on a journey back in time to explore Portugal's golden era of exploration. This walking tour begins in the Afonso de Albuquerque Square and Garden, a green space that provides a tranquil start to the historical adventure.
What to Expect: The tour visits the Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture, and the Pastéis de Belém, where one can savor the famous Portuguese custard tarts. The tour also stops at the Monument to the Discoveries, celebrating Portugal's seafaring explorers, and culminates at the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Tagus River. The tour includes an expert guide who shares stories and insights into Belém's rich history.
This tour includes an expert and passionate free tour guide to show you around! This tour excludes gratuities and any private transportation. 
Highlights
Explore Belém's Historical Gems: See famous landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
Taste Local Flavors: Enjoy the delicious Pastéis de Belém custard tarts.
Learn from an Expert Guide: Hear stories about Portugal's Age of Discoveries.
Walk Through History: Discover the legacy of Portuguese explorers.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning about the history.
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Many enjoyed seeing the famous sites.
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People appreciated the guide's knowledge.
Some found it crowded.
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A few wished for more time at each stop.
The Journey
Afonso de Albuquerque Square and Garden
Step into Afonso de Albuquerque Square and Garden, an opulent tribute to Portugal's viceroy who expanded its eastern empire. Wander amidst exotic plants and sculptures depicting Albuquerque's epic tales, celebrating a legacy of strategic brilliance that connected continents. This isn't just a park; it's a vibrant tableau of Portuguese history and exploration.
Thai Pavilion
Discover the Thai Pavilion, a symbol of Portugal's historical trade routes stretching from India to Thailand and Sri Lanka. This exquisite structure embodies the cross-cultural exchanges initiated by Portuguese explorers, highlighting Portugal's pivotal role in shaping global trade and culture. Experience the legacy of a nation that connected East and West.
Pastéis de Belém
Indulge in the legendary Pastéis de Belém, a culinary masterpiece born in Belém. Savor these creamy, flaky custard tarts, each bite a story of culinary invention and tradition, with a secret recipe guarded by Jerónimos Monastery. Taste the essence of Portuguese sweetness, making it an essential Belém experience.
Chão Salgado Alley
Stroll down historic Chão Salgado Alley, where the shadows of the Marquis of Pombal loom large. This alley whispers tales of his iron-fisted rule, from modernizing Lisbon to the dark days of the Távoras Massacre. Uncover his controversial legacy of bold urban planning and ruthless policies that forever altered Portuguese history.
Jerónimos Monastery
Behold the Jerónimos Monastery, a Gothic marvel and a monumental homage to Prince Henry the Navigator. Although we will only see the church, marvel at its intricate carvings and majestic cloisters, blending Christian symbolism with maritime motifs from the Age of Discovery. This architectural jewel narrates Portugal's quest for new worlds, inspired by Henry's visionary spirit. Please note that we will not go inside Mosteiro dos Jerónimos except for the church, although many traveller's choose this spot to visit after the tour.
Praça do Império
Visit Praça do Império, the site of the grand New State World exhibition of 1940, celebrating over 800 years of Portuguese resilience and innovation. This sprawling plaza, with its monumental fountain and gardens, serves as a living museum of Portugal's enduring legacy and cultural pride, inviting you to ponder the indomitable spirit of a nation reborn.
Compass Rose and Mappa Mundi
Stand in awe at the Compass Rose and Mappa Mundi, a sprawling tribute to Portugal's navigational prowess. This intricate mosaic, spanning 50 meters, maps the routes that stitched the world together, celebrating the adventurers who dared to dream beyond the horizon. Experience a stunning visual ode to the Age of Discovery and Portugal's navigational genius.
Monument to the Discoveries
Admire the Monument to the Discoveries, a striking tribute to the fearless explorers who expanded the known world. This towering structure on the Belém waterfront, lined with statues of Portugal's greatest adventurers, inspires all who visit to embrace the spirit of exploration that defines the Portuguese soul. Please note that we will not go inside Padrão dos Descobrimentos, although many traveller's choose this spot to visit after the tour.
Tagus River Bank
Wander along the Tagus River Bank, where the waters once bore caravels to new worlds, now reflecting the modern majesty of the 25th of April Bridge and the Christ the King statue. Contemplate Portugal's maritime glory and the daring transatlantic flight of aviation pioneer Gago Coutinho, who bridged continents and skies alike.
Gardens of the Tower of Belém
Discover the Gardens of the Tower of Belém, a tranquil retreat and lush oasis framing the historic Belem Tower. These gardens, with manicured lawns and panoramic views, provide a serene backdrop to the tower that once guarded the gateway to Lisbon, inviting you to linger and reflect on the journeys that shaped the globe.
Tower of Belém
Visit the Tower of Belém, standing sentinel at the mouth of the Tagus River as a symbol of Portugal's age of maritime adventure and discovery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its ornate Manueline architecture, is a beacon of the nation's enduring spirit of exploration and resilience. Please note that we will not go inside Torre de Belém, although many traveller's choose this spot to visit after the tour.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes an expert and passionate tour guide. It does not include private transportation or gratuities for the guide. The meeting point is at Afonso de Albuquerque Square and Garden.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, because you'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, bring some cash if you'd like to leave a tip for the guide, because they work hard to make the tour fun and interesting.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour highly informative and engaging, praising the knowledgeable guides and the immersive historical experience. Many appreciate the free format and the opportunity to tip based on satisfaction. Some mention that the walking pace and terrain may be challenging for those with limited mobility, and a few note that admission fees to monuments are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions
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