Best Museums in Portugal To Visit In 2024

Last updated on June 04, 2024.

National Museum of Ancient Art (Lisbon)
National Tile Museum (Lisbon)
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Lisbon)
National Coach Museum (Lisbon)
Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art (Porto)
Porto Museum of Art and Architecture (Porto)
Berardo Collection Museum (Lisbon)
Maritime Museum (Lisbon)
National Museum Machado de Castro (Coimbra)
Grão Vasco Museum (Viseu)

museums

Portugal has a treasure trove of renowned museums, offering visitors an immersive journey through its history and artistic legacy. In Lisbon, the National Museum of Ancient Art captivates with its extensive collection spanning the Middle Ages to the 19th century, while the National Tile Museum showcases the intricate beauty of Portuguese azulejos. The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum impresses with its diverse art collection, from Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces. Meanwhile, the National Coach Museum houses a private collection and a unique display of historical carriages and royal vehicles.

Heading north to Porto, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art stands out for its avant-garde temporary exhibitions, set amidst the lush Serralves Park, while the Porto Museum of Art and Architecture celebrates the city's cultural heritage through its diverse collection.

Back in Lisbon, the Berardo Collection Museum dazzles with its modern and contemporary art, while the Maritime Museum delves into Portugal's maritime prowess. In Coimbra, the National Museum Machado de Castro offers insight into the region's rich history, and in Viseu, the Grão Vasco Museum houses exquisite Portuguese Renaissance paintings. These top 10 museums in Portugal promise an enriching cultural experience, inviting travelers to explore the country's vibrant past and present.

top 10 museum

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Top 10 Best Museums in Portugal?

Portugal continues to enchant visitors with its rich tapestry of history, art, and cultural heritage, showcased through its world-class museums. From the bustling streets of Lisbon to the charming alleys of Porto and beyond, the country's diverse landscape serves as a backdrop for an extraordinary journey through time and creativity.

As travelers go on a quest to explore Portugal's famed museums, they are greeted with an array of treasures, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. Each museum offers a unique perspective, weaving together the threads of Portugal's past and present in a tapestry of discovery and wonder.

Best National Museum of Ancient Art

National Museum of Ancient Art (Lisbon)

The National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon is a premier destination for art enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive array of Portuguese and European artworks spanning from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century. The museum features a diverse collection that includes paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles, providing a comprehensive view of historical artistic achievements. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore a rich cultural heritage in a vast and welcoming space. This venue is essential for those looking to delve into the artistic history of Portugal and Europe.

Key Attractions: Stunning collection of Portuguese and European art from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

National Tile Museum (Lisbon)

The National Tile Museum in Lisbon offers a unique exploration into the art and history of Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos, tracing their evolution from the 15th century to today. Located in a beautifully restored former convent, this museum presents an extensive collection that highlights the craftsmanship and aesthetic intricacy of azulejos, showcasing their role in Portuguese architecture and culture. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, the museum provides an educational and visually stunning experience. It's an essential visit for those interested in the distinctive art forms of Portugal and its cultural heritage.

Key Attractions: Showcases the history and art of Portuguese tiles (azulejos) from the 15th century to the present day, housed in a former convent.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Lisbon)

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon is a cultural gem, hosting an expansive collection that includes Egyptian antiquities, European paintings, and decorative arts. This diverse array showcases art across various periods and regions, offering insights into the evolution of art and aesthetics globally. Notable for its carefully curated exhibits and the quality of its collections, the museum provides a thorough, engaging experience for all visitors. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the museum serves as a testament to the passion of its founder, Calouste Gulbenkian, for preserving and sharing art. It's a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Key Attractions: Houses a vast collection of art spanning from Egyptian antiquities to European paintings and decorative arts.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

National Coach Museum

National Coach Museum (Lisbon)

The National Coach Museum in Lisbon stands out for its exceptional collection of historical carriages and royal vehicles, reputedly among the finest in the world. This unique museum showcases a breathtaking array of opulent carriages, from simple riding carriages to extravagant, ornately decorated royal coaches. Each piece provides insight into the craftsmanship and social history of transport used by European nobility. Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the museum is not only a treasure trove for history buffs but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the past. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the evolution of transportation and luxury.

Key Attractions: Displays one of the finest collections of historical carriages and royal vehicles in the world.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Serralves Gardens

Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art (Porto)

The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art in Porto is renowned for its dynamic contemporary art exhibitions and installations. Situated within the picturesque Serralves Park, this museum blends art with nature, providing a serene and stimulating environment for visitors. The museum regularly hosts a diverse range of modern artworks from international and Portuguese artists, reflecting current trends and thoughts in contemporary art. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the museum and its surrounding park offer a perfect blend of cultural enrichment and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for art lovers and casual visitors alike.

Key Attractions: Showcases contemporary art exhibitions and installations within the stunning Serralves Park.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Serralves - Art and Nature in Porto

Porto Museum of Art and Architecture (Porto)

The Porto Museum of Art and Architecture offers an insightful exploration into the rich cultural heritage of Porto through its diverse collection of artworks and architectural exhibits. This museum serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the historical and artistic evolution of the city, showcasing a variety of media that depict or relate to Porto's unique architectural and artistic landscape. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the museum provides visitors with an opportunity to engage deeply with the city's artistic traditions and architectural innovations. It is an essential visit for anyone interested in the intersection of art, architecture, and urban history.

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Key Attractions: Offers a diverse collection of artworks and architectural exhibits reflecting Porto's cultural heritage.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Berardo Collection Museum (Museu Colecao Berardo)

Berardo Collection Museum (Lisbon)

The Berardo Collection Museum in Lisbon is a premier destination for modern and contemporary art enthusiasts. It houses an extensive and impressive collection that features major works by some of the most iconic artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Picasso, Warhol, and Dalí. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of major artistic movements from these periods, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with groundbreaking art in a range of mediums. Open every day from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the Berardo Collection Museum offers a rich cultural experience that reflects significant artistic advancements and is a must-visit for art lovers visiting Lisbon.

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Key Attractions: Features an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Dalí.
Visiting Hours: Open Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum (Lisbon)

The Maritime Museum in Lisbon is a fascinating venue that delves into Portugal's illustrious maritime heritage, highlighting the nation's pivotal role in global exploration, navigation, and shipbuilding. The museum features an array of exhibits that include scale models of ships, historical maritime equipment, and artifacts related to the Age of Discoveries when Portuguese explorers charted unknown waters and connected the world. Located in the historic Belém area, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering visitors a comprehensive view into the maritime adventures that shaped both Portuguese history and the modern world. It's an essential visit for anyone interested in maritime history and exploration.

Key Attractions: Explores Portugal's rich maritime history through exhibitions on navigation, exploration, and shipbuilding.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Machado de Castro National Museum

National Museum Machado de Castro (Coimbra)

The National Museum Machado de Castro in Coimbra offers a captivating journey through Portugal's cultural history, housed within the majestic confines of a former Romanesque cathedral. Visitors are treated to a diverse array of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts, sculptures, and decorative arts, providing insight into the country's rich heritage. The museum's setting adds to the experience, with the historic ambiance enhancing the appreciation of the artworks on display. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the museum invites exploration and discovery, making it an essential stop for those seeking a deeper understanding of Portugal's artistic and archaeological treasures.

Key Attractions: Showcases archaeological artifacts, sculptures, and decorative arts in a former Romanesque cathedral.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Museu Grão Vasco (Viseu)

Grão Vasco Museum (Viseu)

The Grão Vasco Museum in Viseu stands as a testament to Portugal's artistic legacy, showcasing an exceptional collection of Renaissance paintings, prominently featuring works by Vasco Fernandes. Visitors are immersed in the beauty and craftsmanship of Portuguese artistry, with each painting offering a glimpse into the cultural and historical context of the Renaissance period. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the museum provides an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike, inviting them to explore the masterpieces that have shaped Portugal's artistic identity. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking to delve into the country's rich cultural heritage.

Key Attractions: Houses an impressive collection of Portuguese Renaissance paintings, including works by Vasco Fernandes.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What are the Best Museums in Lisbon Portugal?

The best museums in Lisbon Portugal are The National Museum of Ancient Art, National Tile Museum, Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, National Coach Museum, Berardo Collection Museum, and Maritime Museum. In the heart of Lisbon, Portugal, lies a cultural tapestry woven with the threads of history, art, and innovation. As one of Europe's oldest and most captivating cities, Lisbon is home to an array of museums that offer a window into the country's rich heritage and creative spirit. From the majestic National Museum of Ancient Art, showcasing masterpieces spanning centuries, to the National Tile Museum, housed in a former convent and preserving the intricate beauty of Portuguese azulejos, each museum tells a unique story of Portugal's past and present.

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum captivates with its vast collection of art, spanning from ancient Egyptian relics to European masterpieces. Meanwhile, the National Coach Museum takes visitors on a journey through royal history with its exquisite and valuable collection full of historical carriages and vehicles. In Lisbon, the Berardo Collection Museum dazzles with its modern and contemporary art, while the Maritime Museum delves into the nation's maritime prowess. These museums stand as pillars of cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore the vibrant tapestry of Lisbon's artistic and historical legacy.

National Museum of Ancient Art

Key Attractions: Stunning collection of Portuguese and European art from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

National Tile Museum

Key Attractions: Showcases the history and art of Portuguese tiles (azulejos) from the 15th century to the present day, housed in a former convent.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Key Attractions: Houses a vast collection of art spanning from Egyptian antiquities to European paintings and decorative arts.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

National Coach Museum

Key Attractions: Displays one of the finest collections of historical carriages and royal vehicles in the world.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Berardo Collection Museum

Key Attractions: Features an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Dalí.
Visiting Hours: Open Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Maritime Museum

Key Attractions: Explores Portugal's rich maritime history through exhibitions on navigation, exploration, and shipbuilding.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What are the Best Museums in Porto Portugal?

Serralves Foundation Porto

In Porto, Portugal, art and culture thrive, with two standout museums enriching the city's landscape. The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art mesmerizes visitors with its avant-garde exhibitions and installations set against the picturesque backdrop of Serralves Park.

Meanwhile, the Porto Museum of Art and Architecture celebrates the city's cultural heritage through a diverse collection museum displays of artworks and architectural exhibits. Both museums offer a captivating journey through Porto's artistic evolution and are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural tapestry of this enchanting city. If you're visiting for a short period, check out Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon and Porto in 5 days.

Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art

Key Attractions: Showcases contemporary art exhibitions and installations within the stunning Serralves Park.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Porto Museum of Art and Architecture

Key Attractions: Offers a diverse collection of artworks and architectural exhibits reflecting Porto's cultural heritage.
Visiting Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What are the Best Art Museums in Portugal?

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Portugal's art museums offer a captivating journey through centuries of artistic expression. The National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon showcases a rich collection of Portuguese and European art from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century. The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum houses an extensive array of art, spanning from Egyptian antiquities to European paintings.

In Porto, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art presents cutting-edge exhibitions amid the scenic Serralves Park. Meanwhile, the Berardo Collection Museum in Lisbon boasts two exhibition spaces and a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. Together, these museums provide a comprehensive exploration of Portugal's artistic heritage, enticing visitors with their cultural riches.