Where to stay by Lisbon’s Padrão dos Descobrimento

Rising above the blue waters of the River Tagus, the Padrão dos Descobrimento is a monument to the Portuguese Age of Discovery. The detailed carvings on the stone facade pay tribute to the explorers, artists and poets who defined this time in history.

The surrounding neighbourhood of Bélem is known for its laid-back feel, seafood restaurants and historic landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Here are five highly rated apartments that put you within walking distance of the monument.

The Lisbon-Way Apartments

Brilliant sunshine streams in through the windows of The Lisbon-Way Apartments. White walls and rich wood floors are accented by statement pieces like gold cube lamps, fluffy rugs and abstract oil paintings. There’s a range of apartments available, sleeping from two to six guests. Some have river views, bathtubs or balconies – but whichever you choose, you’ll be greeted by beers from the friendly host. On the same street are three delicious restaurants – Descobre, Nunes Real Marisqueira, and Ceu Na Boca. Monument to the Discoveries is a 13-minute walk away, but if you choose a slightly longer route you can walk along the promenade by the River Tagus.

Beautiful Bélem

Located in a 17th-century building overlooking lush gardens, this two-bedroom apartment has rustic appeal with dark wood furnishings and floorboards. Beautiful Bélem features traditional Portuguese furniture, floral upholstered chairs and decorative painted plates. The apartment sleeps five and has a large dining table and kitchen for cooking meals at home – but if you prefer to eat out, just head downstairs and you’ll find streets lined with restaurants. Try juicy steaks at the unfussy eatery Churrasqueira De Belém, then stroll through Jardim de Belém to reach the Monument to the Discoveries in around nine minutes.

Lanui Belem Apartment

The host at Lanui Belem Apartment pays extra attention to detail, with freshly-pressed towels, potted plants, fluffy rugs and candles throughout the space. The overall effect is calming, making this two-bedroom apartment an ideal place to return to after sightseeing around Lisbon. It’s easy to reach Belém’s best sights right from the front door – the Navy Museum and Monument to the Discoveries are both less than nine minutes away. For a nice evening out, walk over to tiny restaurant Enoteca De Belém, a local favourite for its great wine and seafood. 

Atelier – House in Belém

With original tiled floors, four-poster beds and exposed beams, Atelier – House in Belém exudes old-world charm. This historic home sleeps up to seven guests and comes with complimentary staples like bread, butter and jam, a bottle of wine and a fruit basket. It’s located across the street from the elaborate Jeronimos Monastery and next door to the famous pastry shop Pasteis de Belém. A 10-minute walk through the pretty gardens of the Praça do Império will have you at the river and the Monument to the Discoveries.

Apartment CCB View

With a garden, two big bedrooms and a ground-floor location, Apartment CCB View is great for families. Though it’s situated on a peaceful residential street, you only need to walk a few minutes to find great restaurants and Belém’s prettiest buildings. It’s just five minutes to the Jeronimos Monastery and 12 minutes to the Monument to the Discoveries. While you can easily prepare meals at home, restaurant Planetário is next door and has an inviting terrace.