Visit Jeronimos Monastery - A Must-See Historical Landmark in Lisbon
Jeronimos Monastery Opening Hours
October - April: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
May - September: 10 AM to 6:30 PM
Closed: Mondays, 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May, 25th December.
Best Time To Visit Jeronimos Monastery
Weekday vs Weekend
Weekdays: For a quieter experience at Jerónimos Monastery, visit on weekdays, particularly Mondays and Tuesdays. Visiting the attraction on these days means shorter lines, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy shorter lines and a relaxed atmosphere by arriving at 10 AM when it opens, avoiding the midday rush.
Weekends: Expect larger crowds on weekends and holidays. Weekends and public holidays are the busiest times to visit the attraction. To minimize wait times, visit at 10 AM or consider the low tourist season (November-February) for fewer tourists overall.
Peak Season vs Low Season
Peak Season (May-September): During peak season, the weather in Lisbon is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring. The Monastery attracts large crowds, so be prepared for longer queues and more tourists. It is also advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
Low Season (October-April): Low season offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, providing a more relaxed experience. The downside is that you may encounter rainier weather. However, this period is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, as accommodations and activities are often cheaper. Plus, with shorter queues, you can enjoy more time inside the Monastery.
Where is Jeronimos Monastery?
Address: Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map link
Jeronimos Monastery is located in the city of Lisbon, Portugal. It is situated in the Belem district, overlooking the Tagus River and close to famous landmarks such as the Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. The monastery is a prime example of Manueline architecture and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Closest landmark: Belem Tower
How to Get to Jeronimos Monastery?
By Bus
To get to Jeronimos Monastery, take bus lines 727, 28, 729, 714, or 751 and alight at "Mosteiro dos Jerónimos" or "Belém/Jerónimos" stop. The bus runs from 6 AM to 9 PM with varying frequencies, and tickets are available onboard or at a nearby kiosk. The travel time is around 13-15 minutes.
By Train
To travel from Belem Tower to Jeronimos Monastery by train, take the Cascais Line and alight at the Belem station, which is the closest station to the tower. The travel time is around 15-20 minutes, and the operating hours for the metro are typically from 6:30 AM to 1 AM, although this may vary on weekends or holidays.
By Tram
To travel from Belem Tower to Jeronimos Monastery by tram, take the tram line 15E from Belem tram station located next to the tower and alight at Algés, which is the closest stop to the monastery. The travel time is around 15-20 minutes, and the tram operates from 6 AM to 10 PM, but this may vary on weekends or holidays.
Know Before You Go
- Cloakrooms: The monastery has a cloakroom where visitors can store their belongings safely.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are available on-site.
- Gift shops: There are several gift shops on the premises where visitors can purchase souvenirs.
- The monastery is partially wheelchair accessible, but visitors with disabilities may face some challenges.
- Wheelchairs can be rented at the entrance to the monastery.
- Baby changing facilities are available on-site.
- There are toilets available for families with young children.
- The monastery has a few kid-friendly restaurants nearby.
- Visitors are not allowed to take photographs in some parts of the monastery.
- Dress code: Visitors must dress modestly while visiting the monastery.
- Visitors must maintain silence inside the monastery.
- Food and drinks are not allowed inside the monastery.
- Flor dos Jerónimos: This restaurant offers Portuguese cuisine and bakery items.
- O Pedrouços: This restaurant serves Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Honorato Belém: This restaurant offers Portuguese and European cuisine.
- Adega de Belém: This is a vegetarian restaurant that serves Portuguese and International cuisine.
- Palacio do Governador: Located just a few minutes away from the monastery, this hotel offers luxurious accommodation.
- Hotel Jeronimos 8: This modern hotel is located within walking distance of the monastery.
- Altis Belem Hotel & Spa: A luxury hotel located near the Tagus River, a short drive from the monastery.
- Lisbon Art Stay Apartments Baixa: This apartment-style accommodation is located in Lisbon's historic center, a short distance from the monastery.
- Belem Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower is a 5-minute walk from the monastery.
- National Museum of Ancient Art: Located just across the street from the monastery, this museum houses a collection of Portuguese art.
- Monument to the Discoveries: A popular attraction located a short distance from the monastery, the monument pays homage to Portuguese explorers.
- MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology: A modern museum located a short distance from the monastery, the MAAT houses contemporary art and design exhibitions.
What’s Inside Jeronimos Monastery?
Church of Santa Maria
The Church of Santa Maria is a breathtaking masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic architecture that leaves visitors in awe of its grandeur. The church's interior is a visual feast for the eyes with its intricate carvings, ornate altars, and magnificent stained glass windows that allow the sunlight to filter in and create a stunning kaleidoscope of colors.
The highlight of the church is the tomb of the renowned explorer Vasco da Gama, which lies in the transept and is adorned with beautifully carved figures.
Cloisters
The Cloisters of the Jeronimos Monastery are a remarkable representation of Manueline architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings on the arches and columns. Visitors can admire the artistry of the sculptors, who have depicted various scenes from the Bible and Portuguese history in the carvings.
The Cloisters' central courtyard is a stunning sight with its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Chapter House
The Chapter House of the Jeronimos Monastery is a remarkable space that served as a meeting place for the monks in the past. Today, it is a fascinating tourist destination that never fails to impress visitors. The room is renowned for its intricate stonework and an exquisite ribbed vaulted ceiling that is sure to leave visitors in awe.
Along with the stunning architecture, the Chapter House is also famous for its exceptional stained glass windows.
Refectory
The Refectory, located in the Jeronimos Monastery, is an essential room where the monks used to gather and have their meals. The hall features a long table and benches, and the walls and ceiling are adorned with beautiful stonework and carvings. Visitors can also enjoy the magnificent 18th-century tile panels that depict different scenes from the life of St. Jerome.
The Refectory is a unique blend of historical and architectural features that visitors must experience during their visit to the Jeronimos Monastery.
Exhibition Rooms
In addition to the historic architecture and religious significance, the Jeronimos Monastery is also home to several exhibition rooms. The Maritime Museum is a popular attraction that highlights Portugal's history of maritime exploration and trade. It features various displays and artifacts related to Portugal's famous explorers like Vasco da Gama and Prince Henry the Navigator.
The Treasury Room is another noteworthy exhibition, which houses a collection of sacred objects and artifacts, including gold and silverware, jewelry, and other valuable religious items.
Archaeological Site
The archaeological site located beneath the church at the Jeronimos Monastery offers visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient past of the region. The site showcases the foundations of an old chapel and contains a range of tombs and artifacts that date back to the Roman era. Exploring this site is a must-do for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the region's rich cultural heritage.
Jeronimos Monastery Tickets
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Jeronimos Monastery
The Jeronimos Monastery is located in the Belem neighborhood of Lisbon, Portugal, near the Tagus River.
Yes, you can visit the Jeronimos Monastery.
The Jeronimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive examples of Portuguese Gothic architecture. It is also home to several notable tombs, exhibitions, and archaeological sites.
No, you must purchase a ticket to enter the Jeronimos Monastery.
Tickets to Jeronimos Monastery can be purchased online.
The entry ticket to Jeronimos Monastery costs €21
The Jeronimos Monastery can be visited year-round, but it is recommended to avoid peak tourist season in the summer months.
From October to April, Jeronimos Monastery is open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM while from May to September, it's open from 10 AM to 6:30 PM. The Monastery is closed on Mondays and on certain holidays such as 1st January, Easter Sunday, 1st May, and 25th December.
Yes, group tours are available and must be booked in advance.
Yes, children will enjoy exploring the archaeological site and exhibitions, but it is important to keep in mind that the Jeronimos Monastery is a religious site and to be respectful.
Yes, the Jeronimos Monastery is accessible for wheelchair users with ramps and elevators available.