Discover Lisbon's golden age of exploration on this stunning walking tour through Belém and Alcântara, where historic monuments, cutting-edge architecture, and unbeatable river views collide. This route takes you past UNESCO sites, hidden viewpoints, and creative hubs – all along the Tagus River.
The Viewpoints (Miradouros)
1. Miradouro da Fundação Champalimaud
📍 Av. Brasília
A sleek modern terrace with panoramic views of the Tagus River and 25 de Abril Bridge. The Champalimaud Foundation itself is a groundbreaking scientific research center with striking architecture.
What You See:
- 25 de Abril Bridge – Lisbon’s Golden Gate lookalike
- Christ the King statue (Cristo Rei) – Across the river
- Boats sailing into the Atlantic
2. Miradouro da Capela de São Jerónimo
📍 Near Belém Tower
A tiny chapel viewpoint with postcard-perfect views of Belém Tower. The chapel dates back to the 16th century, when sailors prayed here before long voyages.
What You See:
- Belém Tower – A UNESCO-listed fortress (more below)
- Tagus River mouth – Where ships began global explorations
3. Miradouro dos Rapazes da Praia
📍 Rua da Junqueira
A local secret! This small terrace has retro tilework and views of:
- Docas de Alcântara – Trendy dockside restaurants
- Fishing boats & sailboats bobbing in the river
4. Miradouro do Padrão dos Descobrimentos
📍 Av. Brasília
From the top of this 52m-tall monument (€6 entry), you’ll see:
- A giant marble compass below your feet
- Jerónimos Monastery – Manueline masterpiece
- Belém’s entire waterfront
5. Miradouro sob a Ponte 25 de Abril
📍 Under the bridge (Alcântara side)
An industrial-chic spot where you can:
- Feel the bridge rumble overhead
- Watch trains zoom by on the lower deck
- Photograph LX Factory’s street art in the distance
6. Miradouro da Ajuda
📍 Calçada da Ajuda
A hilltop perch with palace views:
- Palácio Nacional da Ajuda – King José I’s unfinished royal residence
- Red rooftops cascading to the river
7. Miradouro de Santo Amaro
📍 Rua de Santo Amaro
A local favorite with:
- Fado murals on the walls
- Sailboats docked below
- LX Factory’s creative buzz nearby
8. Miradouro do Largo das Necessidades
📍 Near Necessidades Palace
A regal garden viewpoint overlooking:
- Necessidades Palace – Former royal retreat
- Tagus River bends toward the Atlantic
9. Miradouro da Vesi
📍 Rua da Cintura do Porto de Lisboa
A hidden industrial lookout with:
- Graffiti-covered warehouses
- MAAT’s wave-like roof in the distance
Landmarks You’ll Walk By
1. Champalimaud Foundation
A biomedical research hub with a futuristic design by Charles Correa.
2. Monument to the Overseas Combatants
A somber tribute to Portugal’s colonial wars.
3. Belém Tower
The iconic 16th-century fortress (UNESCO) where explorers like Vasco da Gama set sail.
4. Farol de Belém
A charming mini-lighthouse near the tower.
5. Popular Art Museum
Showcases Portugal’s folk art traditions.
6. Street Art - Revolução dos Cravos
Murals depicting the 1974 Carnation Revolution.
7. Padrão dos Descobrimentos
The giant monument to explorers (climb for views!).
8. MAC/CCB Contemporary Art Museum
Avant-garde exhibits near Jerónimos.
9. Jardim da Praça do Império
A geometric garden with fountains.
10. Garden Vasco da Gama
Tropical plants and explorer statues.
11. Garden of Afonso de Albuquerque
Dedicated to the conqueror of Goa.
12. Terreiro das Missas
Where missionaries once gathered.
13. Escultura de Luz
A kinetic light sculpture by João Vieira.
14. MAAT
Striking modern art museum with a walkable roof.
15. Palácio Nacional de Belém
The Portuguese president’s residence.
16. Centro de Congressos de Lisboa
A convention center in a former factory.
17. LX Factory
Hip creative complex with shops and cafes.
18. Necessidades Palace
18th-century royal palace-turned-ministry.
19. Capela de Nossa Senhora das Necessidades
A baroque chapel with azulejos.
20. Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
Portugal’s last royal palace (neoclassical).
Pro Tips
- 🕒 Best Time: Sunset (views glow golden!)
- 🚊 Transport: Tram 15E or train to Belém
- 🥐 Snack Stop: Try Pastéis de Belém (the original custard tarts!)
- 👟 Comfort: Flat shoes – this is Lisbon’s flattest walk!
This route blends 500 years of history with modern Lisbon’s energy.