Pastéis de Belém

Taste the world-famous Portuguese custard tarts at their birthplace, made with a secret recipe since 1837.

The original Fábrica dos Pastéis de Belém has been baking these iconic pastries for nearly two centuries using a closely guarded recipe from the nearby monastery. Crispy, flaky pastry filled with creamy custard, best enjoyed warm with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Must-try in Lisbon Original recipe Often a queue

Essential details

Quick facts

Price: Around €1.50 per tart; coffee and drinks available too.
Opening hours: Daily 8am–11pm (until midnight on weekends).
Recommended visit: 20–45 minutes depending on queue and whether you sit or takeaway.

Getting there

Address: Rua de Belém 84-92, 1300-085 Lisboa.
Nearest transport: Tram 15E to Belém or bus 714, 727, 728, 729, 751.
On foot: 2-minute walk from Jerónimos Monastery and 8 minutes from Belém Tower.

Accessibility & comfort

Access: Step-free entrance; wheelchair accessible seating available inside.
Crowds: Busiest 10am–4pm; shorter queues early morning or after 6pm.
Facilities: Multiple seating rooms inside; takeaway counter typically faster.

                        How to enjoy Pastéis de Belém
                        
                                Morning: Stop in after visiting
                                Jerónimos Monastery for a mid-morning coffee and
                                tart break.
                            
                                Midday: Order takeaway if the
                                line is long, then enjoy your tarts in the
                                nearby riverside gardens.
                            
                                Afternoon: Sit inside for the
                                full experience—order 2–3 tarts to truly
                                appreciate them warm from the oven.

Before you go

The takeaway line is usually faster than waiting for a table, especially at peak times.
Try them with cinnamon and sugar (canela e açúcar) as the locals do—don't skip this step!
Boxed tarts travel well, but they're best enjoyed fresh and warm within a few hours.