Lisbon is a city that offers countless attractions, from its charming streets, beautiful beaches, bustling markets, delicious food and, of course, its astonishing museums. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or simply looking to explore new cultures, Lisbon’s museums have it all. In this post, we will guide you through the best museums the city has to offer, so pack your bags and let’s start exploring Lisbon’s rich heritage through its captivating museums.

The 4 Most Famous Museums in Lisbon

1. Obidos the Museum Village Tour from Lisbon
2. Guided Visit to Tile Museum
3. Art and Nature Tour Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens Private Tour
4. Lisbon National Tile Museum Entry Ticket

The 4 Most Famous Museums in Lisbon

1. Obidos the Museum Village Tour from Lisbon

Step back in time and experience the well-preserved Museum Village on a private tour of Óbidos and Mafra departing from Lisbon. Explore the charming streets of this fascinating town with the guidance of a professional local guide. The itinerary can be adjusted to ensure you have a personalized experience. Hotel or port pickup and drop-off is included for your convenience. During summer, entrance tickets to the “Medieval Market” in Óbidos are included, and during winter, entrance tickets to the “Chocolate” or the “Christmas” Markets in Óbidos. Please note that lunch and any other items not mentioned in the description are not included. This is an exceptional opportunity to discover one of Portugal’s most captivating villages on a private tour.

2. Guided Visit to Tile Museum

The Tile Museum is a must-visit attraction for art and architecture enthusiasts in Lisbon. This guided tour includes admission fees and taxes, making it a hassle-free experience for travelers. The meeting point is at the entrance gate of the Tile Museum at R. Me. Deus 4 1900-312 Lisboa Portugal. The tour starts at 2:30 PM and lasts for an hour, during which visitors will explore the fascinating history of tile art in Portugal. The National Tile Museum boasts an extensive collection of decorative tiles, some of which date back to the 15th century. The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and easily reachable by public transportation. Guests can cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Visitors on this guided tour can expect an educational and informative experience, suitable for all types of travelers.

3. Art and Nature Tour Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens Private Tour

Discover one of Portugal’s premier art collections and take a stroll around an urban oasis with the Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens Private Tour. Join a private guide and skip the queues to explore the impressive collection of artworks from different parts of the world. You can choose from several tour times to suit your schedule, making it the perfect option for all. Enjoy a personalized experience with your own guide, who will take you through the museum and its surrounding property. Entrance tickets are not included but can be purchased directly from the host for 10 Eur per person in cash. The meeting point is at Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira, next to the fountain of Eduardo VII Park Observation Deck, and the endpoint is at Museu Calouste Gulbenkian on Av. de Berna. This Withlocals tour is carbon neutral. Discover the beauty of Lisbon with the Art and Nature Tour Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens Private Tour.

4. Lisbon National Tile Museum Entry Ticket

Enjoy a visit to the Lisbon National Tile Museum and discover the traditional tile work of Portugal. The museum features a splendid collection of tiles from the 15th century to the present day, along with ceramics, porcelain, and faience from the 17th to the 21st century. The permanent exhibition begins with a display of the materials and techniques used for manufacturing tiles, followed by a chronological order of the exhibit. The museum is located at the former Convent of Madre Deus, which was founded by Queen D. Leonor in 1509. The convent has gone through several building campaigns that involved transformations, including its 16th-century mannerist cloister and impressive church with remarkable sets of paintings. Immerse yourself in the history of the art of azulejos and admire the intricate designs and patterns of these decorative tiles. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this significant historical location and learn more about Portugal’s tile making heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Museums in Lisbon

As a tourist, visiting museums in Lisbon can be an exciting experience as there are numerous museums that showcase the rich history and culture of Portugal. However, before embarking on your adventure, you may have several questions that need answers. Below are the most frequently asked questions about museums in Lisbon.

1. What are the best museums to visit in Lisbon?

There are several museums worth visiting in Lisbon. They include:

• National Museum of Ancient Art

This museum houses Portuguese paintings from the 15th and 16th century as well as European art from the 14th to 19th centuries. The museum also exhibits ancient pottery, textiles, sculptures, and furniture.

• Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

This museum is famous for its Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Islamic, Asian and European art collections dating back 5000 years. The museum also displays works from famous artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Renoir.

• Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

This museum boasts the largest collection of modern and contemporary art in Portugal. It has works from big names such as Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol.

• Lisbon Museum

This museum explores the history of Lisbon dating back to ancient times. It has both permanent and temporary displays and exhibitions.

2. Are there any free museums in Lisbon?

Yes, some museums in Lisbon are free. They include:

• National Museum of Azulejo (Tile)

This museum showcases Portuguese tiles from the 15th century to the present day. It is small but provides a rich cultural experience and is free on Sundays before 2 pm.

• Museu Colecao Berardo

Despite most of the museums in the area being paid, this museum offers free entry every Saturday.

3. When is the best time to visit museums in Lisbon?

The ideal time to visit museums in Lisbon is during off-season periods such as in winter when there are fewer tourists. It means you don’t have to endure long queues or crowds. You can also opt for early mornings or late afternoons. If you plan to visit during high-season periods like summer when there is a high influx of visitors, it is best to purchase your tickets in advance.

4. Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?

It is highly advisable to purchase tickets in advance for popular museums. Some museums may have limited tickets and long queues, especially during high tourist seasons. By getting your tickets beforehand, you can avoid the hassle and stress of queuing for long hours.

5. What are the opening hours for museums in Lisbon?

Most museums in Lisbon open between 10 am and 6 pm daily, except on Mondays, which are the designated closing days for most museums. However, some museums may have different opening hours, so it’s best to check their websites or inquire from tourist centers.

6. Can I take pictures inside the museums?

Most museums in Lisbon allow visitors to take pictures inside but without the use of flash. However, some may prohibit photography altogether, especially in rooms where there are candles or fragile items.

7. Can I bring food and drinks into museums?

Most museums in Lisbon prohibit food and drinks from being brought in. However, they do have cafes or restaurants on-site where you can enjoy a meal or refreshments.

8. Are there any guided tours available in the museums?

Yes, some museums in Lisbon offer guided tours. These tours provide a detailed explanation of the exhibits and artworks on display.

9. Are the museums in Lisbon wheelchair accessible?

Most museums in Lisbon have wheelchair access and elevators. However, some museums that are housed in old buildings may not be fully accessible, and some exhibits may not be suitable for people with physical disabilities.

10. Which museums are child-friendly?

Most museums in Lisbon are child-friendly, and some even have designated children’s sections. These sections have interactive displays and activities that enhance their learning and appreciation of art and history. Examples of child-friendly museums in Lisbon include the Lisbon Zoo and Lisbon Oceanarium.

How to Find the Best Museum in Lisbon

Lisbon boasts a rich cultural history with a ton of museums to offer. However, with so many options available, selecting the best museum to visit in Lisbon can be overwhelming. This article is a comprehensive guide to help you find the best museum in Lisbon.

Step 1: Determine Your Interests

The best way to start your search for the perfect museum is to determine your interests. Museums in Lisbon range from modern art to ancient history, so it is essential to have a clear understanding of what you want to see. Here are a few examples of what some Lisbon museums offer:

• The National Museum of Ancient Art – Fine arts, paintings, and sculpture of the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods.

• Gulbenkian Museum – A broad collection comprising of art, artifacts, and crafts from different civilizations.

• The National Tile Museum – A vast collection of beautiful Portuguese tiles and ceramics.

Step 2: Research Your Options

Once you have figured out what interests you, it’s time to research the different museums available in Lisbon. You can do this by looking up information online, such as museum websites and online reviews. Some useful websites to consider include:

• Tripadvisor – Offers general reviews of the top-rated museums

• Visit Lisbon – The official Lisbon tourist board website

• The Culture Trip – A comprehensive travel guide to Lisbon and its museums

Step 3: Consider Location and Accessibility

When it comes to finding the best museum in Lisbon, location and accessibility are crucial factors to consider. Some museums are located in the city center, while others are scattered in different neighborhoods. You may also want to consider how close the museums are to public transportation.

Step 4: Check Schedules and Admission Fees

Another important factor when searching for the best museum is checking the schedules and admission fees. Some museums may have free admission days, while others require an admission fee. You should also consider the opening hours of the museum to ensure they align with your schedule.

Step 5: Personal Recommendations

Finally, ask locals or people who have already visited Lisbon for recommendations. Talking to people who have been to the museum can provide first-hand experience and further insight into what each museum has to offer. It can help you make a more informed decision when choosing a museum.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right museum in Lisbon takes a bit of research and planning. Determine what interests you, research different museums, consider location and accessibility, check schedules and admission fees, and seek personal recommendations. Follow these steps, and you’re sure to find the best museum that suits your interests and preferences.