Belem Lighthouse
Lisbon, Portugal
Constructed for the Portuguese World Exhibition in 1940, the Belem Lighthouse (Farol de Belém) is a remnant of one of the main exhibition buildings, the former Pavilion of Industrial Arts (Pavilhão das Artes Indústrias). Designed as a folly rather than a functional lighthouse, it’s now closed to visitors—but its location along Belem’s riverfront promenade makes it a worthy photo stop.
The basics
One of the most distinctive landmarks along Lisbon’s riverfront Tejo Promenade, the Belem Lighthouse (Farol de Belém) is instantly recognizable for its striped brick and plaster exterior. Although the landmark can’t be visited, it’s one of several historical highlights worth exploring in the Belem area, including the UNESCO-listed Belem Tower (Torre de Belém) and the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos).
The Belem Lighthouse is easy to stop by and photograph during an independent day out in Belem. It can also be viewed on many sightseeing tours, including walking tours, tuk-tuk tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, and even sailing trips along the River Tagus.
Things to know before you go
- The area around the Belem Lighthouse is exposed to the elements, so come with appropriate sun protection or weather gear.
- No tickets or reservations are required to visit the area around the Belem Lighthouse.
- To capture awe-inspiring photos of the landmark, visit during sunset.
- The Tejo Promenade is a flat riverside path accessible to wheelchair users.
How to get there
The Belem Lighthouse is located in Lisbon's waterfront Belem district at Avenida Brasília, 1400-038. To get there via public transit, take commuter trains to the nearby Belém stop or use local trams. Taxis and rideshare services offer another way to get there.
When to get there
The Belem Lighthouse is located on the publicly accessible Tejo Promenade and can be visited 24/7 (although interior access is prohibited). To make the most of the area (and avoid the worst of the high-season crowds), visit during a good-weather day in the spring or autumn shoulder seasons and aim for a weekday rather than a weekend.
Belem Tower (Torre de Belém)
One of Lisbon’s highlight attractions (and a neighbor of the Belem Lighthouse), the Belem Tower (Torre de Belém) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 16th-century former fort, lighthouse, and customs house, it’s today a must-visit landmark. Visitors can purchase tickets to head inside and admire impressive views from its summit.
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