Travelling to Lisbon? Get ready for a true cultural dazzler!
Portugal’s vibrant and eclectic capital offers an incredible wealth of museums.
From the unique art of azulejos to contemporary art collections and treasures from the royal era, Lisbon brings the centuries together like no other city.
To help you organize your stay, this article contains our ranking of the 10 best museums in Lisbon, our recommendations for your visit, and a bonus selection by theme (children, history, contemporary art…).
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Lisbon’s best museums: tips
Lisbon’s range of museums is as varied as it is exciting, so there’s something for everyone, but we particularly recommend it:
- Museu Nacional do Azulejo – to discover the emblematic art of Portuguese azulejos
- Musée Calouste Gulbenkian – for its exceptional international collections
- MAAT – for its bold architecture and contemporary art exhibitions
To benefit from discounts on a selection of activities and cultural events, the city offers the Lisboa Card. Valid for 24 or 48 hours, it gives access to many museums and avoids queues. Book your pass here.
1. Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Why visit it? Our review
At the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, you’ll discover one of Portugal’s most emblematic arts: azulejos, the painted tiles that adorn many of the country’s facades. We particularly appreciated the diversity of the collection: from geometric Moorish tiles to large, narrative Baroque panels and contemporary creations.
The exceptional setting of the former convent adds to the charm of the visit, with its peaceful cloisters, sparkling golden chapel and interior gardens.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The great panorama of Lisbon before 1755, a monumental work that recreates the city before the earthquake.
- The baroque convent church, with its golden azulejos and spectacular painted ceiling
- Contemporary collections showing how artists are reinventing this traditional art form
Useful tips
- Access: in the Xabregas district, east of the historic center
- Tour duration: 1h30 to 3h
- Child-friendly tour: yes, game booklets and elements to handle
- Full adult price: €8
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, closed on Mondays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
Read our article on this unique museum!
WHERE TO STAY IN lisbon
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
The Baixa neighborhood in the heart of Lisbon –
Hotel da Baixa – See prices, photos and availability
Dare Lisbon House Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
The Alfama neighborhood, the oldest and most charming –
Hotel Poussada Alfama – See prices, photos and availability
The Chiado neighborhood, the most elegant—
Art Legacy Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
2. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Why visit it? Our review
The Musée Calouste Gulbenkian houses one of Europe’s most prestigious private collections, bequeathed by the Armenian oil magnate on his death in 1955. Nestled in a leafy park in the residential district of São Sebastião, the museum’s modernist architecture and peaceful atmosphere won us over. Some 6,000 pieces cover 5,000 years of art history, from ancient Egypt to Art Nouveau. We particularly appreciated the exceptional diversity of the collections, which take us on a veritable journey through civilizations. Don’t miss the outdoor garden designed by landscape architect Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles, a true haven of peace in the heart of the capital.
Our 3 favorite moments
- Paintings by masters such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Monet in an intimate atmosphere.
- The priceless collection of René Lalique jewelry, of incredible finesse, unique in the world.
- Stroll through the modernist gardens after your visit, a veritable oasis of freshness in the heart of the city.
Useful tips
- Access:Near Praça de Espanha (Metro São Sebastião or Praça de Espanha).
- Length of visit: 2 to 3 hours.
- Child-friendly tour: Yes, especially the gardens and the Egyptian section.
- Full adult admission: €16 for the entire site, including temporary exhibitions, and €14 for the collections
- Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, 10am to 6pm, closed on Tuesdays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
- Book your ticket now to save time! Please note that the museum is under construction until July 2026.
3. MAAT
Why visit it? Our review
The MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) represents Lisbon’s contemporary vision of the future. Inaugurated in 2016 on the banks of the Tagus River in Belém, this undulating building by Amanda Levete immediately won us over with its bold architecture. The 15,000 white ceramic tiles covering the façade create a play of reflections with the nearby river. We were impressed by the way the building dialogues with the adjacent former power station, which has also been transformed into an exhibition space. Temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and design explore the issues of our time with a resolutely innovative approach.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The museum’s rooftop terrace, with its panoramic view of the Tagus River and the April 25 bridge
- The restored old power station with its monumental industrial machinery
- Temporary exhibitions showcasing the work of leading contemporary artists!
Useful tips
- Access: Belém district (Train stop Belém or Tram 15).
- Length of visit: 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interests
- Child-friendly tour: Yes, the central section is great fun for children with the machines. The “History of Energy” exhibition offers an interactive approach to the energy transition, with lots of elements to handle and test.
- Full adult price: €15.
- Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, 10am to 7pm, closed Tuesdays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
Read our detailed article on MAAT!
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips
4. Museu Nacional dos Coches
Why visit it? Our review
The Museu Nacional dos Coches holds the world’s largest collection of royal carriages, a fascinating testimony to the splendor of the Portuguese court. Installed since 2015 in a contemporary building designed by Brazilian architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha, the museum surprised us with its spectacular display of these ceremonial vehicles.
We loved the splendor and richness of detail (carved wood, velvet, gold), which allowed us to imagine the life of the Portuguese court in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The former royal riding arena, which completes the tour, also preserves a number of masterpieces in a more intimate setting. Did you know that some carriages were so heavy that up to eight horses were needed to pull them?
Our 3 favorite moments
- The coach of the Portuguese ambassador to the Vatican, a Baroque masterpiece of unparalleled richness
- The collection of elegantly decorated 18th-century royal sedans
- The former royal armoury of the Palais de Belém, home to some of the world’s oldest exhibits.
Useful tips
- Access Belém district, right next to the train station (Belém train).
- Duration of visit: 1 hour.
- Child-friendly tour: Yes, it’s very visual and magical (“princess carriages”).
- Full adult price: €15.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, closed on Mondays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
5. MAC/CCB
Why visit it? Our review
Located in the imposing Centre Culturel de Belém, this museum (which houses the former Berardo collection) is a nugget for modern art lovers. There’s a rare concentration of great names here: Picasso, Dalí, Warhol, Magritte… We particularly appreciate the clarity of the chronological tour, which makes it easy to understand the evolution of twentieth-century artistic movements without being an expert.
Last but not least, the architecture of the building, designed by Vittorio Gregotti in 1992, is worth a visit in itself, with its clean lines and vast, light-filled spaces that perfectly showcase the works.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The Pop Art section, colorful and dynamic, with iconic works by Andy Warhol.
- The Berardo collection, presenting the major artistic movements of the 20th century.
- Diversity of media: painting, sculpture, video installation and photography.
Useful tips
- Access: Belém district, opposite the Hieronymites.
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h.
- Suitable for children: Moderately, children need to be accompanied on their discoveries.
- Full adult price: €12.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 7pm, closed on Mondays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you would like to be informed when our guide to Portugal is published, please register:
6. MNAA – National Museum of Ancient Art
Why visit it? Our review
For us, the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is the Portuguese “Louvre”, the guardian of national treasures. If you like history and fine art, this is the most complete museum. Housed in a 17th-century palace with a modern extension, we were impressed by the wealth of collections from the “Great Discoveries”, showing Portugal’s influence in Africa and Asia. The museum also boasts a charming garden overlooking the Tagus, perfect for a coffee break.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The Panels of Saint Vincent by Nuno Gonçalves, an absolute masterpiece of 15th-century Portuguese painting
- The Temptation of Saint Anthonyby Hieronymus Bosch, a fascinating triptych full of nightmarishly brilliant details (photo below)
Useful tips
- Access: Santos/Lapa district (bus or streetcar, a little off the metro).
- Length of visit: 2 to 3 hours.
- Tours suitable for children: no.
- Full adult price: €10.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, closed on Mondays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
7. Ajuda National Palace
Why visit it? Our review
The Palácio Nacional da Ajuda plunges us into the intimacy of the Portuguese monarchy of the 19th century. Built after the earthquake of 1755 to replace the destroyed Royal Palace, it served as the residence of the royal family until 1910. We were captivated by the rich neoclassical and romantic decor that adorns its ceremonial salons. The royal apartments retain their period furniture, crystal chandeliers and silk drapes, offering an authentic vision of royal splendor. Have you ever imagined the daily life of a queen in such a setting? The tour takes in the remarkably well-preserved private apartments of Queen Maria Pia of Savoy.
Our 3 favorite moments
- Queen Maria Pia’s elegant Sala Azul, decorated for intimate evenings of card playing and music.
- The Throne Room, upholstered in red velvet and impressively high and gilded.
- The stunning “Winter Garden” in marble and agate, a gift from the Viceroy of Egypt.
Useful tips
- Access: Colline d’Ajuda (Bus or Taxi/Uber recommended, as it’s quite a climb!)
- Tour duration: 1h30
- Child-friendly tour: Yes, for the “princess/prince castle” aspect.
- Full adult price: €8
- Opening hours: daily (except Wednesday) from 10am to 6pm
- Free admission with Lisboa Card
- Visit the official website for more info here.
- Book your ticket now!
FUN around Lisbon: activities
Lisbon by E-Bike
Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon
Dolphin watching
Kayaking in Arrabida
Surfing in Cascais
8. Museu do Fado
Why visit it? Our review
Located at the foot of the Alfama district, this museum is essential to understanding the “soul” of Lisbon. The museography is very well done, guided by an audioguide that lets you listen to the songs while learning about the history. Collections of instruments, costumes and posters trace the development of the genre from its popular origins in the 19th century. We enjoyed discovering how this song of sailors and misfits became a national symbol. It’s the perfect introduction before dining in a Fado house.
Our 3 favorite moments
- José Malhoa’s famous “O Fado” painting, an iconic image of bohemian Lisbon.
- Listening stations to discover the evolution of styles and performers
- Collections of Portuguese guitars, the emblematic instrument of Fado with its distinctive sound
Useful tips
- Access: At the foot of the Alfama, facing the Tagus (Santa Apolónia metro station 5 minutes away).
- Tour lasts 1 hour.
- Child-friendly tour : Yes, thanks to the audioguide and music.
- Full adult price: €5.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, closed on Mondays.
- Visit the official website for more info here
9. Lisbon Museum – Teatro Romano
Why visit it? Our review
We often forget that Lisbon was an important Roman city (Olisipo). Teatro Romano takes us back to the ancient origins of the Portuguese capital. Discovered by chance in 1798 after the earthquake of 1755, this 1st-century Roman theater is one of the most important remains of the Roman era in Portugal. We were fascinated by the way in which archaeological excavations had uncovered the stands, the orchestra and part of the stage. The best part? the way the museum fits into the existing urban fabric and the magnificent view of the river from the site.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The 3D reconstruction shows the grandeur of the theater at the time.
- The collection of Roman ceramics and sculptures discovered on the site
- Panoramic view of the Alfama and Tagus from the remains
Useful tips
- Access: Alfama, near the Cathedral (Sé).
- Visit duration: 45min
- Child-friendly tour: Yes, it’s a short, informative tour of Roman times.
- Full adult price: €3.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, closed on Mondays.
- Visit the official website for more info here.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
10. Oriente Museum (Fundação Oriente)
Why visit it? Our review
The Museum of the Orient celebrates the historic links between Portugal and Asia, which began with the Great Portuguese Discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries. Housed in a former refrigerated warehouse on the Alcântara docks, the museum’s rich collection of Asian art won us over. We particularly enjoyed the section devoted to the Portuguese presence in Asia, which documents four centuries of commercial and cultural exchanges. Collections of Chinese, Indian and Japanese art bear witness to the mutual influence of these civilizations. The building itself deserves attention, as a successful example of industrial conversion in dialogue with the surrounding contemporary architecture.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The rare Coromandel Screen: An exceptional piece (pictured above) depicting biblical scenes from the Life of Christ treated with a Chinese aesthetic.
- The “Asian Gods” collection and the incredible diversity of masks, ritual costumes and shadow puppets!
- The Japan section: fascinating objects linked to Japanese beliefs and traditions.
Useful tips
- Access: Alcântara (Bus or Tram, near LX Factory).
- Length of visit: 2 hours.
- Child-friendly tour: Yes, because the museum is very visual
- Full adult price: €10
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm (closed on Mondays)
- Visit the official website for more info here.
Other museums in Lisbon
We’ve also identified a number of other interesting museums in Lisbon that are well worth a visit, depending on your interests.
Other contemporary art museums
Here’s a selection for those who love stunning contemporary scenes:
- MUDE (Musée du Design) – Explore the fascinating evolution of international design, from fashion to graphics, at this recently renovated landmark (more info here).
- MNAC (Chiado Museum) – A must-see tour of Portuguese art from Romanticism to the present day in the heart of the historic district (more info here).
- Casa da Cerca – Located on Almada’s south bank, this contemporary art center offers cutting-edge programming and a breathtaking view of Lisbon (more info here).
- MACAM – An original hotel-museum concept where art and hospitality coexist for a different experience (more info here).
Other historical museums
To understand the soul of Portugal, from the maritime epic to the splendors of the court, right up to the dark hours of the dictatorship, head for these museums:
- Musée de la Marine – Relive Portugal’s great maritime adventure through over 17,000 exhibits, from caravels to seaplanes (more info here).
- Royal Treasure Museum – Enter a giant vault to admire the crown jewels and priceless silverware of the royal household (see more info here).
- Lisbon Museum (Palacio Pimenta) – Step back in time with a giant model of the city before the earthquake and rich collections of azulejos (see more info here).
- Musée des Arts Décoratifs Portugais – Discover the excellence of Portuguese craftsmanship in this noble house dedicated to the protection of fine crafts (more info here).
- Aljube Museum – A moving place of memory documenting the resistance and struggle for freedom from the Estado Novo dictatorship (more info here).
- Museo de la Presidencia de la República (Museum of the Presidency of the Republic ) – Explore the country’s political history in the very heart of the Palais de Belém, residence of the Head of State (see more info here).
Family museums in Lisbon
Most museums offer child-friendly content, but if you’re looking for a fun tour, this is the place:
- Oceanário de Lisboa – One of the world’s most beautiful aquariums for a magical underwater journey to meet the ocean’s fauna (see more info here).
- Musée de la Marionnette – Admire a unique collection of Portuguese puppets and exotic masks in the superb setting of a former convent (more info here).
- Museum of Natural History and Science – A fascinating exploration of biodiversity and science at the heart of Lisbon’s Botanical Gardens (more info here).
Immersive experiences
Tired of classic museums? Let yourself be tempted by an interactive experience:
- Palácio Grillo – A timeless 18th-century palace where you can dine and stroll amid lively, surreal artistic performances (more info here).
- Quake (Lisbon Earthquake Centre) – An immersive technological experience to relive the 1755 earthquake as if you were there (more info here).
- 3D Fun Art Museum – Defy reality and take crazy pictures with dozens of fun optical illusions (more info here).
- Museum of Beer – Discover the brewing history of Portuguese-speaking countries while tasting a craft beer on the Praça do Comércio (see more info here).
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Lisbon museum pass?
The Lisboa Card includes free admission to 39 museums and monuments in the capital, as well as unlimited access to public transport. Valid for 24h, 48h or 72h, it represents a substantial saving for visitors wishing to discover several cultural institutions. Find out more on the official website here.
Are all Lisbon’s museums closed on Mondays?
Most national museums are closed on Mondays. However, some private establishments and foundations remain open on this day. Always check specific times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Best attractions in Portugal
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Portugal
Driving tips
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Best attractions in Portugal
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Portugal
Driving tips
