Lisbon buzzes with art. It is a symbol of its cosmopolitan character and rich history — as well as that of the country whose capital it is.
Many of the city’s museums feature lively cultural programmes and hide charming cafés with terraces, shops, and even performance spaces.
From ancient art to contemporary creations, numerous institutions help energise the cultural life of residents while attracting tourists from around the world.
We have selected 10 museums you should not leave Lisbon without visiting.
Berardo Collection Museum
Located inside the Exhibition Centre of the Belém Cultural Center, the Berardo Collection Museum is one of the leading museums of modern and contemporary art in the Portuguese capital.
MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
Built alongside the century-old power station that once housed the Electricity Museum, MAAT is one of Lisbon’s newest contemporary art museums. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River, it presents artistic and cultural exhibitions that encourage reflection on modern society.
National Coach Museum
The National Coach Museum houses a collection of ceremonial and travel carriages from the 16th to the 19th centuries that is unique in the world. In May 2015, the museum moved to a new building designed by architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha in Belém.
National Museum of Archaeology
The National Museum of Archaeology is Portugal’s main museum dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of humanity.
National Tile Museum
Housed in the former Madre de Deus Convent, founded in 1509 by Queen Leonor of Portugal, this museum celebrates one of the most distinctive artistic expressions of Portuguese culture: the azulejo tile.
Museum of the Orient
Managed by the Oriente Foundation, this museum is dedicated to the historical, cultural, and artistic relationships between Portugal and the countries of the East.
National Costume Museum
The National Costume Museum features a collection of Portuguese and international clothing and fashion accessories from the 18th century to the present day.
Fado Museum
Located in Alfama, the Fado Museum tells the story of this unique musical genre, a defining symbol of Lisbon’s identity.
National Museum of Ancient Art
The National Museum of Ancient Art houses the largest collection of Portuguese and international artworks in the country.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum was created from Calouste Gulbenkian’s wish to keep his vast collection under one roof. Considered one of the finest museums in Portugal, it includes two art collections connected by a magnificent garden.
