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Tours & experiences

Self-Guided Riverside Cycle to Belém: Lisbon’s Legends

About this experience

Discover Lisbon’s rich history on a self-guided GPS cycling tour through the stunning Belém district. Start at the picturesque Terreiro do Paço, then pedal along the storied Tagus River, tracing the paths of Portuguese explorers. Cycle past Roman ruins, iconic monuments like the Praça do Comércio and the Tower of Belém, and glide under the impressive 25th of April Bridge. Along the way, hear tales of discovery, Fado music, and royal intrigue, while indulging in a famous Pastéis de Belém. This immersive 60-minute tour will transport you to the heart of Lisbon’s cultural and historical evolution, offering a unique perspective of Europe’s second-oldest capital city.

At a glance

  • Duration: 1 hr–1 hr 15 min
  • Private experience

What is included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • Audio and written English Guide
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Not included

  • Smartphone and headphones
  • Bicycle (please bring your own)
  • Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Itinerary and highlights

Start your tour at this stunning riverside viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the Tagus River. As you pass by, learn about Lisbon’s maritime history and its role in the Age of Discovery.

As you pedal through one of Lisbon’s largest and most iconic squares, you’ll hear tales of its bustling medieval marketplace and its recovery after the earthquake. Entrance to the nearby attractions is not included.

This historic dry dock is a relic of Lisbon’s naval past. As you cycle by, learn how Portuguese explorers set sail from here, paving the way for the country’s global empire.

Pedal through this lively riverside neighborhood, known for its colorful past as a dockworker’s district. Today, it’s a hub for nightlife and culture, and you’ll hear how it evolved over time.

Ride beneath Lisbon’s iconic 25th of April Bridge, a marvel of engineering that spans the Tagus River. You’ll hear about its construction and its connection to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

Passing by this towering monument, you’ll hear about Portugal’s greatest explorers and how this structure commemorates their achievements. Learn about the symbolism behind the monument’s intricate carvings.

Cycle by this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fortress that once guarded Lisbon’s harbor. As you admire its striking architecture, you’ll learn about its role in defending the city from invaders.

Pedal past the tranquil garden surrounding the Belém Tower, a perfect spot to relax with views of the river. Entrance to the tower is not included, but you’ll hear about its fascinating history.

As you pass by this famous bakery, you’ll hear the story behind Lisbon’s iconic custard tart, Pastéis de Belém, and its centuries-old secret recipe. A taste stop is recommended but not included.

End your tour cycling past this majestic monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. As you admire its grandeur, you’ll discover how it took over a century to build and its connection to Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Meeting and pickup information

  • We will begin our tour in the center of Largo Jose Saramago, the square and park on the edge of Alfama just off of Rua dos Arameiros and Avenida Infante Dom Henrique. The closest Metro stop is Terreiro do Paco - 2 minutes walk from the square.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Audio
  • English — Written
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • VoiceMap Audio Tours

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveller reviews and photos

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