Beyond its picturesque beaches and lush forests, Belém showcases a rich historical heritage alongside modern tourist delights, all infused with the vibrant essence of Pará – its scents, flavors, customs, and the warmth of its people.
As you wander through the city, you’ll encounter a prominent local gem known as Estação das Docas (Wharf Station). This cultural tourist complex offers a delightful blend of local cuisine, culture, fashion, and handicrafts. Among the captivating performances, you can witness a group of dancers gracefully executing the carimbó, a dance deeply rooted in Indigenous traditions with noticeable African influences.
Another must-visit attraction for any visitor is the Ver-o-Peso Market, hailed as the largest open-air market in Latin America. This cultural hotspot beckons tourists with a fascinating variety of local fruits, indigenous and marajoara handicrafts hailing from the island of Marajó, fresh catches of local fish, and so much more. Within the market’s vibrant ambiance, you’ll have the opportunity to savor some of Pará’s most exquisite delicacies, including açaí berries, a quintessential Amazonian fruit, delectable crab claws, and the flavorful soup known as tacacá, crafted with tapioca starch, jambu leaves, and dried shrimp.
The Feliz Lusitânia Complex stands as a magnificent cultural and historical treasure in the state, offering a captivating glimpse into the Portuguese influence that has shaped the city of Belém. Within this complex lie splendid period buildings, museums, palaces, and mansions, all exuding the echoes of a rich past.
Among the remarkable attractions, the Sé Cathedral, inaugurated in 1771, holds a special significance. Each second Sunday of October, the cathedral serves as the starting point for the grand Círio de Nazaré, one of Brazil’s most prominent religious processions.
Venturing into the Cidade Velha, or old town, you’ll encounter the Mangal das Garças Park, a haven for hundreds of aquatic birds, including herons and tuiuiús. This sanctuary is also home to a mesmerizing viewpoint that offers picturesque vistas overlooking the Guamá River.
Given Belém’s location within the Amazon region, adventure enthusiasts can indulge in thrilling forest trails and boat rides. Local islands, such as Mosqueiro and Alter do Chão, both found in Santarém, boast incredible beaches formed by rivers on the Atlantic coast and igarapés surrounded by lush tropical forests, providing the perfect escape to bask in Pará’s sun-kissed charm. Boat trips offer the chance to explore more beaches and islands, such as the breathtakingly beautiful Marajó Island.
Belém undoubtedly emerges as one of the many alluring Brazilian destinations, catering to the diverse tastes and desires of all types of travelers.
By plane
+55 (91) 3210-6000
The International Airport of Belém receives domestic flights from most Brazilian capitals, as well as international flights.
By bus
+55 (91) 3266-2625
The Belém Bus Terminal operates intercity and interstate lines.
By boat
+55 (91) 3182-9136
The city has an excellent river transport structure. The Port of Belém is interconnected with other destinations in northern Brazil, such as Manaus, Santarém, and Macapá.
By Bus
There are several bus lines serving the city. If you want to find out more about bus routes and timetables, please visit the ViaLoc website.
Personal Vehicles or Rentals
A good way to get around the city and to visit nearby destinations is to rent a car.
By Boat
Some tourism agencies offer boat rides in which visitors will experience the Amazon Forest, the city’s river shore, some riverside communities, and nearby islands. The most traditional boat tours depart from Estação das Docas (Wharf Station).
Taxis and Ridesharing Companies
One of the options to get around the city comfortably is to use local taxis and ridesharing companies.
Pará Tourism Department:
+55 (91) 3110-5000
Tourist Police:
+ 55 (91) 3212-0883
+55 (91) 98123-1178
Military Police: 190
Paramedics: 192
Fire Department: 193
110V
Belém has warm weather all year round, but it also gets lots of rainfall. The wettest months are February, March, and April. The best period to visit the city is between the months of August and November, when there is less rain.