I won't review the experience inside the monastery but give timings on our arrival and the wait. We arrived around 9:45am and there was a relatively short line (maybe 30-50 people? The line got significantly longer in the next 30 minutes). At 9:55am they started letting 9:30am ticketholders in. We were let in around 10:15am (we had 10:30am entry tickets). read more

On my first visit to Lisbon sixteen years ago, I failed to visit this legendary monastery because I came on a Monday, the one day they're closed. I could resolve my disappointment only by devouring a half-dozen pasteis de nata across the street. This time I made sure Jamie W and I had reservations for a scheduled time-slot on a day other than Monday. When we arrived, there was still a long line of people and no shade from the blazing sun, but we got in quickly. I have to say the building did not disappoint. Built in the 15th century during the Age of Discovery, it took a full century to complete because the Manueline architectural style was so idiosyncratic. As a tribute to Portugal's seafaring history, the inlays on the stonework were made intricately with decorative paneling on windows, arcades, and pillars. Traditional stone columns were sculpted into twisted ropes, corals, anchors, and sea monsters. The result is a stunning level of craftsmanship epitomized by the beauty and meticulous detail of the cloister. The two-story structure is a prime example of flawless symmetry and historical significance. The church houses the tombs of legendary explorer Vasco da Gama and famous Portuguese poets. Monks from the Order of Saint Jerome used the monastery to pray, meditate, and offer spiritual discourses. You can do the same. Admission per person is 18€. RELATED - Exploring Lisbon? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/3GGfbOtM3m read more

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Beautiful piece of Portuguese history to check out! Such a beautiful monastery to check out. You can buy tickets there at the kiosk, online, or through a tour group to skip the line. They have timed entrances and let in at least 800 ppl per time slot. There is a bathroom in upper level and the bottom near the exit. There is a free chapel to check out to the right of the entrance to the monastery. Not a place to miss! read more

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4.5 stars. Jerónimos Monastery, dedicated to the Order of Saint Jerome, opened in 1495 and today is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors may purchase tour tickets of the monastery, and I recommend purchasing timed tickets online, because the lines of customers look very long and would be no fun to wait in. Touring the church is free, and it houses the tombs of historical figures such as Vasco de Gama. During our vacation in Belem, my husband and I were in awe of this monastery's impressive architecture such as the high vaulted ceilings and the ornate arches in the cloisters. Furthermore, I greatly appreciate that a monk here hundreds of years ago invented one of my favorite desserts, the famous Pastéis de Belém custard tarts. read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Exterior of monastery - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

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Gorgeous. My husband is salty about any churches in Europe I want to visit but I can still surprise him, he had no idea what this was and when we got inside the cloisters he pulled out his phone and started taking photos. This is probably one of the most beautiful and intricately carved structures I've ever seen. The line was extremely long and slow-moving when we arrived and the staff on site were not helpful at all and were outright rude. I eventually walked around while my husband stood in line to find that we had a timed ticket for entry which meant we didn't need to stand in the gen pop line and could walk through the timed portion for our ticket specifically. The girl wanted to argue with me about it until I pointed to my ticket time and the sign that said my ticket time for our (no line) entry. Still, we waited in the sun for another 30 minutes to get inside. Once inside, I was grateful for the timed entry and their enforcement of this because it would've been awful trying to walk around and get any photos. How they do it, you can easily walk around and get beautiful photos and enjoy the space without a mob of people. My advise, purchase a timed ticket in advance and only show up during that hour when you can fast-track entry. Seeing the church is free - and had no line. read more

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One of the great landmarks of Lisbon and there's a reason why there are along longs congregating from early in the day. The monastery is an ornate architectural marvel with incredible artworks and a beautiful courtyard that is an incredible testament the building prowess of that time. There are plenty of sights to see within and again the courtyard was the real highlight. There is a majestic sense of history that really surrounds you as you walk through the hallways and grand rooms that adorn this very large building. It is recommended to arrive early as I mentioned, the lines will get very long. The other aspect to be aware of is that people will harass you outside to buy things, it wasn't clear if they were gypsies or locals but it got a little annoying when a bunch of them swarm you and you really have to be on the lookout for your belongings. This place is also within walking distance of various other notable sights near the river so it's a great place to make as the centerpiece of your Lisbon walking tour. read more

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I can't believe this place is real! This is one Portugal's wonders, the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon. It's Manueline style architecture which I haven't seen a lot of. King Manuel I built this to celebrate Vasco da Gama's trip to India. The tombs of Vasco da Gama, Luis de Cameos, and a few royals are buried here. And you'll never guess this. The pastel de nata you've been inhaling was created here by the monks. Now. This all of a sudden becomes significant to you. I know. This place was built between 1501 and 1601 so it survived the 1755 earthquake. You gotta see this place. You'll be rubbing your eyes, thinking this can't be real. read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

We purchased tickets online and didn't have to wait before entering. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in 1495. The arches were intricate and beautifully designed in the gothic style. The monastery is a must visit. You can also visit the church, but I didn't know that it was free. read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

Absolutely stunning and worth a visit! Ticket booth is opposite the entrance or also online. Tickets are for the cloisters which are beautiful and I believe entering the church was free. read more

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18 Euros to essentially line up to see a courtyard... The church was under renovation in Nov 2025 so that part was free to enter. It was scaffolds everywhere, so it makes that they didn't charge for it. We got tickets to the monastery for our time slot a head of time and even then we still waited a good half an hour in line. This is probably the spot where all the tour groups to go, which makes it extra busy compared to everywhere else we went in Lisbon. There really isn't much to see inside the monastery. The courtyard was neat for photos, but that fountain was the saddest thing ever. If you care to learn the history of Portugal you might find some of the reading interesting, but even then, it was definitely not worth the price they charge for entry. We had a nicer time exploring the Belem area than visiting the monastery. read more

Well....what can I say....we just got lucky on a Sunday afternoon at 2:15 pm to visit the monastery on a 97% degree heatwave. We got the 18 Eu tickets across the street. There wasn't a line at all. We stayed inside for @ 1 hour. It is beautiful but there isn't any information on the monastery. It would be beneficial to add something to the cost of the ticket. Audioguide or pamphlet??? Then you have to make another line which was short to visit the church. The service was just ok 3/5. I guess because they see so many tourists... Women's restrooms are by the exit on the first floor(3). The men's restrooms are in the 2nd floor when you enter. You can get tram 15E by Praca de Comercio for 3.20 Eu you just tap your credit card. read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Inside - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

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An absolute gem of a place to visit when you make it to Belem. This place was gorgeous to say the least! There can be a really long line here, but I highly recommend to purchase your tickets in advance. I'd advise to spend about 2-3 hours here as there were a lot of spaces to see and photos ops! read more

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Moisteiro dos Jeroʻnimos is listed as one of the top sights to visit while in Lisbon. The massive size of the monastery is very impressive. I was mesmerized by the intricate details of the design and it makes sense that it took over 100 years to build it. The main area that you are allowed to view is the courtyard, there's a chapel inside with Jesus crucified on the cross at the alter. You can also visit the adjoining church which is supposed to be one of the oldest in the country. We went in the afternoon, the line was very long but thankfully it moved fast. We then had to make another line to visit the church. It's recommended to go early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds. read more

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Rather barren, however, get a close look at the decorative columns throughout the exterior. Fascinating to look at. You'll want to queue up before 1030am for your morning time slot as the line to enter (with a ticket in hand already) gets horrendously long. I believe we waited at least an hour to get in. When you see the mens toilet towards the beginning of your visit you should use it otherwise you have to backtrack a long ways to find it again. The womens is at the end of the visit. The church attached to the monastery has it's own queue and is included with your ticket (or possibly it is simply free?). It was under construction/rehabilitation when we visited in early May but you can still have a look around. read more

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Beautiful day in Belém, checking out the Monastery after the Belem Tower. Preferred the outdoor grounds to the church itself but very impressive architecture read more

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It was absolutely beautiful. There was a long line to get in even with the Lisboa card, but it moved fairly quickly. The architecture is amazing. My friend enjoyed it so much that she wanted to go again to admire it. read more

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It's quite a disappointment really. Open at 10, buy ticket across the street across the i booth Get in line around 9:30am If you want to tour the cathedral, ask for the right ticket. We spent $12 euro and ended up just walk in to see the courtyard. That's all. 1. We waited for an hour (at open) to get in line. 2. The ticket they sold us only for the courtyard. It's nice but not worth 12euro and not much to see. Unless you joining a tour to see the cathedral, don't bother. Left line is to courtyard, right side is for the cathedral. And you have to have the right ticket. we read more

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Waiting in line with your group: 5 min. Waiting individually: 1 hour. If you are individual traveler - you'll suffer. Even if you have ticket. read more

I could spend HOURS in the place. The history, the architecture, the art! Such a wonderful experience and organized access for large groups of visitors. You will need about a solid two hours to visit this and the church attached right next to it but it's so worth the wait. Can't wait to come back with the rest of my family. read more

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Huge and interesting structure. We had a tour of this before a Viking Douro river cruise. Massive lines to get in, but our line got in fairly quick via Viking connections. Way too many hawkers selling their hats, scarfs, etc etc. Lady near us bought from one of them, and then the rest of them surrounded us like hungry tigers. Anyway , once inside, the ornateness of the stone carvings and columns was way cool. The tiles on the walls of the monks dining room were spectacular. Plenty of gargoyles adorned the monastery. read more

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Mosteiro dos Jerónimos was my favorite landmark in Lisbon. It is a gorgeous monastery and chapel that allows you to wander through a magical, inspiring structure that truly makes you feel in awe of the world. Firstly, how do you get in? Tickets must be purchased online or at a small kiosk inside the entrance to the Maritime Museum. Don't be fooled by going in either of the two lines (one to the church and another to the actual monastery) without a ticket, it'll be a waste of time. Once you purchase your ticket, go on in and enjoy the architecture and spaces. The true highlight is the courtyard where you can snap photos facing inward. There is so much beauty around you so make sure to not focus just on photos but really soak in the environment. The path itself is very linear so there isn't much room to 'get lost,' but you can take as much time as you'd like admiring its beauty. Note: the ticket does not automatically grant you quicker access into the chapel (which is free to the public). You'll have to stand in a second line if you want to see that part of the monastery. Don't miss out on this beautiful site! read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

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Must-see landmark and monastery with a chapel still in use and architecture that will take your breath away. We arrived with our pre-purchased, timed tickets, but the timing did not matter at all because the line was at least an hour wait. No one even checked our ticket times when we eventually reached the front of the line. Not a big deal to us, but be forewarned that the line is long and do not plan other outings close to your ticket time. The archways, carved stone details, and the history behind a 14th century structure is an exciting experience for anyone visiting Lisbon. Public transit is a close and inexpensive walk. read more

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So we technically did not go in the monastery itself because the line was so long and we wanted to explore more of Belém for our last day in Lisbon. So instead we went into the church. Glad we did. It was stunning. We did the "Rick Steves Portugal" self walking tour through the church. I recommend getting to the monastery early if you want to see it. They close around 5pm read more

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This is truly one of the most amazing places I have ever visited. It is truly awe inspiring and the whole place is a work of art. Fair warning, you have to come in very early and prepare to stand on a very long line. We came in as soon as it opened and there was already a line almost the entire length of the monastery which is quite big. The church area is free to enter but the other structure it is not. We bought our tickets in advance and we still had to stand in a line about half an hour or so, which is short from what I hear, because we came in so early. still there was many tourist buses that dropped people off. Once you make it inside it is jaw dropping truly. But after taking pictures in every area, you shouldn't have to spend more than an hour. This is a must visit place in Lisbon! read more

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Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (and its adjoining church) in the City of Belém is an outwardly imposing structure (fortress-like!) that sits on expansive grounds in a culturally-rich area of the city. The self-guided tour is split between the "cloisters" and the "church"--my understanding is that the purchased ticket is for the cloisters, with the church being free (with a separate line). [As of this review date 24 Dec '24, the church's interior is under renovation; however, it is still open for viewing.] As are all of Portugal's monasteries, this one is architecturally austere with splendidly rich interiors and tile-work. The church side of the tour is flagrantly overwhelming in its religious fervor and riches! Without doubt jaw-dropping!! This is a must-see if you've never done so, and I am very happy we decided to see it, as well. :D read more

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Jeronimos monastery is one of the attractions to see while in Lisbon Portugal! It's close to the Belem tower as well as the Pasteis de Belem. There's two different entrances one for the archaeology side which I loved. You can get some good photos there of the courtyard. The other side is the church which is gorgeous. The best way to get tickets is to scan the QR code that they have in the front and then go ahead and purchase the tickets. Or just purchase them in advance. The people at the entrance and the line control people are definitely not the nicest. That was pretty much the only bad thing that we ran into here. But otherwise definitely go. It is a sight to see! And you might even run into some dancers outside, as well as piña colada stands! read more

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A highlight of our 11 nights in Portugal. I had originally decided to NOT visit the Monastery due to stories about the long lines, regardless of whether one buys their ticket in advance or on arrival. However, we two made a spontaneous decision to go, buying tickets one day in advance for opening time (9:30am). We arrived at opening time (late Aug) and queued for 30 minutes before entering. By noon the line was three times longer and the sun was hot. It was well-worth the 30 min wait, as the cloister is gorgeous. read more

This imposing and impressive structure that opened in 1495 is worth touring if you find yourself relatively near the Tower of Belém. First, purchase your tickets at the middle entrance along Praça do Império (Portuguese for Empire Square) followed by a wait in the entrance line toward the east end of the building. You'll enjoy the quiet courtyard with a fountain, a large, beautifully tiled room, and the impressive cathedral. Curiously, Internet sources and even locals seem to recommend taking Tram 28E to the monastery, but we found that it doesn't even come close. The last stop for this tram is still over an hour walk from the area! We ignored the hotel clerk and the Internet suggestions and trusted Google instead, taking Tram 15E which dropped us off a block from the monastery. And you definitely shouldn't miss the legendary bakery Pasteis de Belém down the street for the best pasteis do nata in town! read more

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A must when you come to Belem. Beautiful architecture and amazing beauty. There are two main floors. read more

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Another place that you can use your Lisbon card! Originally, my friends and I weren't going to visit since we only wanted to try the pastry, but we decided to go inside when we figured out that it was free with the Lisbon card. It was very beautiful inside, the only reason I'm docking a star is because there was not a lot of explanation written anywhere, in any language and no tours where you could ask people questions. Like who made the sculptures? What do they represent? This place gets very full, so save time and get to walk right in with your Lisbon card! read more

Closed on Mondays how disappointing. We couldn't miss this huge ornate monessary. We walked from the station past downtown, the lines at the bakery and we're disappointed to see that it's closed on Monday. I understand that this UNESCO world heritage site is from 1501 is massive and very very impressive from the outside.. read more

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My wife and I were on a tour with Gate1 We visited the Jeronimos Monastery, a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome near the Tagus Riverin the parish of Belém. It is an impressive symbol of the country's power and wealth and resting place of explorer Vasco da Gama. read more

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One of the must visit sites in Lisbon. It's a UNESCO world heritage site. If you are a resident currently it is free to visit during the week. The architecture of the building is breathtaking. On the inside they have in one side the church and on the other they have a square garden with multiple rooms. One of the rooms is where they used to have dinner where you can see some beautiful Portuguese tiles. Another room has the resting place of Vasco da Gama. read more

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Pro tip that was given to us by a local guide: Skip the monastery and go straight into the cathedral, which is free and does not require any line or ticket. That's what we did during our day in Belem, and we were very happy with what we saw. The cathedral is beautiful inside and not at all crowded during a weekday around lunchtime. You get to see the tombs of Vasco de Gama and Camoes without any entry fee, which I thought was quite the steal. We didn't feel like we missed out on anything by not seeing the monastery given all the complaints from other tourists about having to wait in a long line just to see a courtyard and cloisters (and indeed, the line was long when we were there). Don't be intimidated by the lines--see the cathedral and enjoy the rest of your day in Belem! read more

October 2019- we were on our way to Torre de Belem when our train stopped just around the corner. Before getting on our connecting bus to Belem. We stopped by and took photos. The line to go in was quite long. So sad that we didn't have enough time to go inside the monastery. Hope to go back someday. read more

This monastery open at 14th century. It is part of UNESCO heritage site. The structure is beautiful to look at. The interior also match up the exterior. The outward building is magnificent. It stood there over 500 year and serve the people of Lisbon. The cathedral is dedicated to Santa Maria of Belém. It is for the assist to seafarers in transit. The cathedral has high ceiling and beautiful arch dome. The church certainly is huge and a place to worship. The inter of the courtyard is where the monk living quarters. The window are Manueline ornamentation in the cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery. It is complex gothic look with great photos opportunities. The visit take one hour. The ticket sold at the museum next door. The ticket can be bought by automated machine. read more

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Stunning architecture, beautifully crafted site. A place Must to see. Go early to beat the long lines, and remember it closes on Monday. read more

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It is probably the most historic site in Belem, an UNESCO World heritage site. Unfortunately, it was closed the day we were there. It is a Monastery and church. Quite an impressive building from the outside. read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

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Chris and I were initially excited to visit this monastery and the connected archaeological museum and church. We wanted to purchase the combination ticket which included all attractions. We researched the website and it recommended to utilize the self service kiosks located in the lobby. The only methods to purchase tickets is to purchase the Lisbon Card which includes several attractions (we already visited the others), or to purchase just the monastery ticket, or just the archaeological museum or a combination ticket for the monastery and the archaeological museum via the kiosk. Signage is lacking along sidewalks and the exteriors of the multiple buildings. Upon arrival there were multiple long lines of people most of whom were unsure which line was correct for them. There were limited employees outside directing the crowds and most were too busy chatting amongst themselves or playing on their phones. The result is thousands of people in incorrect lines wasting time. After the third line and standing in line a long time we finally arrived at the kiosk. Only two kiosks were functional and the third was only for official tour guides to purchase group tickets. The kiosks accept cash or credit cards BUT both were having problems and would only accept the denomination of the 20 euro paper bill. Tickets for nonresidents are priced at 12 euros each. So the majority of people trying to pay with cash and only having 5 or 10 euro bills had to leave the line to go stand in another INSANE line for the one cashier at the gift shop to exchange money for the 20 euro bills. At this point Chris and I were very upset and debating to abandon the visit to these beautiful monuments. We were paying with a VISA credit card and finally made it to the kiosk. The touch screen was disgusting and had looked like it had dried snot on it. It printed the tickets then we had to stand in another line to actually enter. The tickets have both barcodes and QR code's so we assumed we could just scan the tickets and enter BUT no!!! The elderly person guarding the door had to examine the tickets in slow motion and then tear each ticket in random places. We saw a bag check near the bathrooms upon arrival but no one and no signs state that bag check was mandatory. The museum is free for residents of Portugal and the men and women all had backpacks and sizable purses. We viewed the left half of the museum and walked across the lobby to the largest portion of the museum only to be told we cannot enter unless we check our bags. Chris and I both had across the shoulder messenger bags less than seven inches inside and barely large enough to hold our cellphones and a map. Meanwhile locals with large bags walked right in!!! We then had to go back to the other side of the building for bag check only to discover that the lockers are automatic and only accept a 1 euro coin. We didn't have any coins and were then told to stand in line at the gift shop and exchange paper euros. We get to the gift shop and the one cashier has a line of people waiting to exchange money for the lockers. At this point we had wasted hours standing in lines and unable to see much of what we had paid for. We met many many other unhappy tourists just as frustrated as we were. The employees that operate these landmarks need customer service training, better signage, improved active organization for crowd control and the ability to purchase e-tickets online with self scanning tollgates. The buildings, structures and artwork are incredible but the complete experience is a disaster due to the manner in which the facilities are operated. Until the staff and government can rectify these issues, we don't recommend these interconnected attractions. read more

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Exterior of the monastery and church - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Lisbon, 11

Beautiful monastery worth every penny! Lots to see with awe-inspiring architecture! A must-see when visiting Belem! Can get a lot of good pictures here. read more

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