After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at our apartment, we hopped in an Uber to visit nearby Belem. Famous for its waterfront tower, it is a beautiful area with some of Lisbon's most popular spots.
The Belem Tower stands guard directly on the waterfront. We purchased a ticket, and climbed to the top of the tower to take in the views, both from the inside and towards the outside. It was said that sailers knew they were home when they could see the tower from their returning ships.
It was a very windy day, but the tourists were out in force. And to help the tourists keep their strength, we found this fun cart.
A stroll along the water brought us to the famous Padrao dos Descobrimentos, which is a monument to famous Portuguese explorers.
Across the street from the waterfront was the Jeronimos Monastery. The line to purchase tickets to enter the monastery snaked around the buildings. Way too many people! So, we just walked into the church (no ticket required).
Time for lunch. I had read that the original maker of the famous Portuguese Pasteis was in Belen, so we headed straight to Pasteis de Belem. Again, more crowds, but the line to get a table was short. We relaxed in an outdoor courtyard, and enjoyed the most delicious grilled sandwich, fresh pastries, some espresso, and a beer. Perhaps the perfect lunch!
After our hearty lunch, we wanted to walk and stretch our legs. We walked along the main road of Belem, then headed north towards the Palacio Nacional de Ajuda. Where the waterfront and monastery were packed, this was serenity. We paid a small fee to enter the museum, and we practically had the place to ourselves. Super impressive building with an amazing collection.
From the palace, we walked back down through the neighborhoods to the waterfront. We walked. And walked. And walked. We walked under the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, which is very reminiscent of the Golden Gate Bridge. Along the waterfront, we stopped for a couple beers and a plate of olives. The perfect place to sit back, take it all in, and continue to be amazed at this beautiful city.
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