Top 100 best museums in Portugal

Belém Tower, also known as Torre de Belém, is a Manueline-Gothic fortress tower located in Lisbon, Portugal. Built in the early 16th century, the tower commemorates Vasco da Gama and the city's patron saint, São Vicente. It served both as a part of the city's defense and as a ceremonial monument to certify Portugal's influence during the European Age of Discovery.

The Lisbon Oceanarium is an oceanarium in Lisbon and is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe. The Cceanarium comprises two floors and is divided into six theme areas. The central part consists of a central tank that represents the Oceano Global with various types of sharks and rays, barracudas, man

The Jerónimos Monastery, situated in the Belém district of Lisbon, Portugal, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. It was commissioned by King Manuel I and built by architect Diogo de Boitaca in the Manueline style, a Portuguese version of late Gothic architecture. The monastery was constructed to celebrate the return of the renowned Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama, who discovered the sea route to India. This discovery marked a significant milestone in world history, opening up new trade routes and opportunities for exploration.

A magnificent mansion that features a chapel and an extensive and well-maintained park. It is also known as Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire. Completed in 1910, the palace's style is a mixture of Roman, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Worth noting are also the spectacular Gothic features of

The Museu Arqueológico do Carmo, or Carmo Archaeological Museum, is situated in the ruins of the Carmo Convent in Lisbon, Portugal. This unique location provides a historical backdrop to the museum's extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.

Saint George's Castle, known as Castelo de São Jorge in Portuguese, is the most renowned castle in Lisbon. It is situated on the highest hill in the city, providing a panoramic view of the Tagus River. This strategic location has made it a significant landmark and a popular tourist attraction in Lisbon.

The Church of Santa Engrácia, a 17th-century monument in Lisbon, Portugal, serves as the National Pantheon. This historic site is the final resting place of many significant Portuguese personalities. Its location in the Alfama neighbourhood places it near another notable Lisbon monument, the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora.

Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa, also known as Sé de Lisboa, is the oldest church in Lisbon, Portugal. Its construction began in 1147 and has undergone several renovations. The cathedral has survived many major earthquakes, which is why it reflects different architectural styles today. This historical monument stands as a testament to the city's resilience and architectural evolution over the centuries.

An amazing sight in the very centre of the city, with richly decorated interiors and an equally stunning exterior, which was also recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The highlight of this palace is the Arab Room – a beautiful gilded ballroom decorated in Moorish Revival style.

Visit this intriguing church built in the 14th century which mixes Gothic and Baroque influences into an interesting blend of styles. The interior boasts glamorous wood carvings that cover the stone structure of the church. The contrast between the plain façade and the richly decorated interior is s

Dating back to the 16th century, this imposing monastery is a precious historic and religious monument. It also has an architectonic value because several styles are mixed together here as it was partially rebuilt several times over the centuries. It is therefore not surprising that this building is

Visit the caves formed by volcanic eruption. There are guided tours and an adjacent centre which illustrates the formation of Madeira.

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Museu Calouste Gulbenkian) is a museum in Lisbon. The permanent exhibition reflects the versatile artistic interest of the founder Calouste Gulbenkian and includes a wide range of art objects from all eras. The exhibition is organized chronologically and geographicall

The Whale Museum of Madeira (MBM) is a unique institution dedicated to the history of whaling in the seas of the Madeira archipelago. It is located in the picturesque fishing village of Caniçal in Machico. The museum offers a comprehensive insight into the whaling industry, its history, and its impact on the region. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including real-size models of whales and dolphins, and learn about these magnificent creatures and their marine environment in an engaging and interactive way.

One of the famous Madeira wine lodges dedicated to presenting and promoting the traditional way of making Madeira wine.

The Lisbon Zoo (Jardim Zoologico de Lisboa) is a zoological garden in Lisbon. The collection of Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa mainly consists of ungulates, cats, primates and tropical birds. In addition, there is a dolphinarium and a small reptile house. The Lisbon Zoo was founded in 1884 by Dr. Van De

Discover the secrets of wine production in this cellar. The company is considered one of the best in Porto area and was founded in 1859.

A nice museum with plenty of valuable relics and artifacts from the town's rich history. You can spend a couple of interesting hours in here.

The Berardo Collection Museum is located in the Belém district in Lisbon. It is named after José Berardo, a famous Portuguese businessman and art collector, whose collection is on display here. The Berardo Collection Museum features many contemporary Portuguese and international artists. Exhibited a

Numerous discoveries were made by Portuguese sailors during 15th and 16th centuries. Visit this Museum and a theme park reminding you of the Age of Discovery and find out a little bit more about Vasco da Gama’s journey to India or about Fernão de Magalhães’s expedition which resulted in the first c

One of the greatest museums of Portugal; the first national museum in the country that displays some of the best art from home as well as few pieces from international artists. Of course that a collection of António Soares dos Reis, whose name the museum bears, is also a part of the exhibited artwo

The Church of Saint Roch is one of the earliest Jesuit churches in the world. Even though the exterior of this church is quite simple, its interior is elaborately decorated - it is a fusion of Mannerist and Baroque styles. The Church of Saint Roch boasts eight splendid chapels and three altars. One

If you want to know more about its history and culture, this is a place for you. Innovative museum with a great use of interactive exhibitions.

The National Tile Museum in Lisbon presents the history of craft-making of decorative ceramic tiles, azulejos, popular in Spain and Portugal. The collection showcases evolution of this craft since the 15th century up to present days. Opened in 1965, it is housed in an ancient monastery, formerly kno

Visit the live exhibit of 4,000 animals and learn about the marine life at this aquarium! Its oceanographic collection is very informative.

Want to know more about the Port wine, its history and production? Don't hesitate, visit this cellar and learn everything!

You can explore this wine cellar with a qualified guide and taste the best Port wines they have on offer.

A former custom house and mint was built in 14th century but it was significantly remodelled in 17th century. It is believed to be the birth place of Prince Henry the Navigator, who is connected with the Age of the Discoveries. A beautiful sight that is part of the UNESCO heritage in Porto.

This museum set its goal on preserving and promoting traditional culture of Madeira. The main focus is on traditional crafts.

This amazing animal park owns hundreds of fascinating animals roaming freely in close vicinity of the visitors. A great place.

Manor house surrounded by a garden full of exotic species. The museum collections encompass rich variety of antiques and paintings.

This representative manor which belonged to a powerful noble family is one of the greatest historics sights of Evora.

Modern art museum housed in an extraordinary building set on the hillside of Calheta village. Worth visiting just for the building itself.

Seated in a splendid old house, this culture center organizes various events, such as exhibits, concerts or movie projections.

Producing tasty red wine for more than 90 years, this cellar organizes amazing tours around its facilities for visitors.

The collection of the National Coach Museum in Lisbon was situated in a former riding arena which served as a museum. Later, it was decided that the museum needed a new exhibition space and in May 2015, the new National Coach Museum was opened not far from the old one that was renamed to Royal Ridin

Located in a renovated fort from 18th century. Now it houses 70 tanks with wide variety of local species. Fascinating show.

Both entertaining and educative theme park. Vast gardens and a captivating science centre, great for people of all ages.

The Portimão Museum, located in the parish of Portimão, Portugal, is housed in the former Feu canning factory. This museum opened its doors to the public on May 17, 2008, offering a unique insight into the history and culture of the region.

The National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon houses works of the most important Portuguese and other European artists. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures and a lot more. The absolute highlight of the collection is Saint Vincent Panels, a 15th century painting by Nuno Gonçalves. The National Muse

A wonderful zoo featuring hundreds of animals. There are also regular shows with trained seals and other fun activities.

Your children can encounter various animals including lions, monkeys and rodents here. Don't miss the penguin feeding!

The Pavilion of Knowledge - Centro Ciência Viva is a science museum located on the right bank of the Tagus River in Lisbon. It is an interactive museum of science and technology that aims to make both science and technology more accessible to the general public, stimulating the exploration of the ph

Here you can encounter work of the Madeiran artists. They have been a significant influence to the other Portuguese artists of 19th century.

The Portuguese navy is famous all over the world and the Lisbon Navy Museum provides its visitors with a thorough insight into it. The Museum is located in the historical Jerónimos Monastery. Even though the museum itself was opened in 1963, its collection dates back to as early as 1863. This was th

The Vasco da Gama Aquarium (AVG) in Lisbon is one of the oldest aquariums in the world. The first room is where the marine invertebrates are located. In this room it is possible to observe some living species and documents and apparatuses used by the King. On the upper floor, there are four more roo