Belém, Brazil

Old City of Belém by Foot

Discover the Gateway to the Amazon and Its Famous Market Experience Belém’s vibrant multiculturalism, tree-lined squares, colonial buildings and colorful Ver-o-Peso market. The first European colony on the Amazon, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Focusing on the Cidade Velha (Old City), you will see highlights like the brilliant white Cathedral of Sé and Castle Fort. Also known as the Presépio Fort, it dates to 1616 and was the fortress upon which Belém was built. Thanks to its distinctive architecture, Belém resembles a bit of Old Portugal with its neoclassical buildings and blue azulejo tiles. But it is also home to a vibrant Amerindian culture, which you will discover when you visit the waterfront Ver-o-Peso market, the largest open air market in Latin America. It is a great place to sample local cuisine and shop for medicinal herbs, textiles, basketry, açaí berries and much more. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.