Top 100 best museums in Portugal

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 Quinta da Regaleira is an architectural complex located in the historic center of Sintra, Portugal. This city is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, making it a significant location for cultural and historical exploration. The palace and gardens of Quinta da Regaleira were created by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro with the help of architect Luigi Manini and cover an area of 4 hectares today.

The National Palace of Sintra, also known in Portuguese as Palácio da Vila, is situated in the parish of São Martinho in Sintra. This former royal palace is now owned by the Portuguese state and is used for tourism and cultural purposes. It's an urban palace that began construction in the early 16th century, with its architect remaining unknown. The palace is a part of the 'Cultural Landscape of Sintra', declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995.

The Stock Exchange Palace, known as Palácio da Bolsa in Portuguese, is a historical building located in Porto, Portugal. Constructed in the 19th century by the city's Commercial Association, the palace is a fine example of Neoclassical architecture. This grand structure stands as a testament to the city's rich history and its importance in the commercial sector.

The Church of São Francisco is a significant historical site in Porto. It is a Gothic church that was built in the 14th century as part of a Franciscan convent. The church is located in the historic center of Porto, making it easily accessible for tourists. The church's architecture and history make it a fascinating place to visit.

The Monastery of Serra do Pilar is a historical site located in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. It is situated on the opposite side of the Douro River from Porto. This former monastery offers a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings.

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

Gorreana, located on São Miguel Island in the Azores, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving tea plantation in Europe. It is one of only two tea plantations still operating in the Azores, making it a unique destination for those interested in tea production and history.

The National Palace of Queluz, also known as the Royal Palace of Queluz, is a Portuguese royal residence. It is located in the parish of Queluz, in the municipality of Sintra. This palace was built between 1747 and 1760 by architect Jean-Baptiste Robillon and was commissioned by Prince Pedro III. It was transformed from a pre-existing country residence into a royal palace.

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.

The Museu CR7 is a unique museum dedicated to the illustrious career of Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. It is located in Funchal, the birthplace of Ronaldo, on the beautiful island of Madeira in Portugal. The museum houses an extensive collection of Ronaldo's trophies, celebrating his achievements in football.

The Porto Formoso Tea Factory is situated in the picturesque town of Porto Formoso, in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, on the north coast of São Miguel Island, in the Azores. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a traditional tea factory in a stunning coastal setting.

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.

The Grão Vasco National Museum is situated in the historic heart of Viseu, Portugal. It is housed in the former 16th-century Episcopal Palace of Viseu, which is conveniently located next to the Viseu Cathedral. This location not only provides a rich historical context but also offers visitors the opportunity to explore other significant landmarks in the vicinity.

The Machado de Castro National Museum, located in Coimbra, Portugal, is an art museum named after the renowned Portuguese sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro. This museum is a significant cultural landmark in Portugal, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art collections.

The Monte Palace Museum is situated in the lush Tropical Garden Monte Palace, in the parish of Monte, in Funchal, on the island of Madeira. This location offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for those interested in both nature and art.

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 Serralves Foundation, located in the city of Porto, Portugal, is home to the Serralves House and the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. These are situated within the beautiful Serralves Park, providing a unique blend of nature and culture for visitors to enjoy.

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

The Porta and Torre de Almedina are part of the Núcleo da Cidade Muralhada, a significant historical area in Coimbra. These structures have been recognized as a National Monument since 1910, further emphasizing their importance in the city's history. Tourists visiting these sites can appreciate their historical value and the role they played in the past.

The Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, also known as the House of Stories Paula Rego, is a museum located in Cascais, a town in the Lisbon District on the Portuguese Riviera. The museum was designed by renowned architect Eduardo Souto de Moura and houses a collection of works by the late artist Paula Rego, who lived from 1935 to 2022.

The World of Discoveries - Interactive Digital Exhibition is a unique space that pays homage to the Portuguese Discoveries. It is situated within the old warehouses of the Real Companhia Velha, in Miragaia, a part of the historic center of Porto. This location not only provides a rich historical context but also offers a central and easily accessible location for tourists.

The Royal Palace of Évora, also known as the Palace of Dom Manuel, is a significant historical site in Portugal. It was commissioned by King Afonso V who desired a royal palace outside the castle in the city. The palace was later expanded by the monarchs who succeeded him. This architectural masterpiece not only stands as one of the largest architectural works in the country but also holds immense historical importance.

The Soares dos Reis National Museum is situated in the Carrancas Palace in the northern Portuguese city of Porto. This location is not only historically significant but also offers a unique setting for the museum's vast collection of Portuguese art.

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

The Madeira Story Centre is an interactive museum located in the Old Town of Funchal, Madeira. It offers a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of the region. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the volcanic origins of the island to the discovery and pirate attacks. It's a great place to learn about Madeira's rich history and culture.

The Carlos Machado Museum, situated in the city of Ponta Delgada on the island of Sao Miguel, Azores, holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in the archipelago. It was developed from the former Açoriano Museum, which was founded in 1876 by the teacher and naturalist Carlos Maria Gomes Machado.

Located in the City Park of Porto, next to Gonçalves Zarco Square, SEA LIFE Porto is the 30th aquarium of the Merlin Entertainments chain. It covers an area of about 2400 square meters and houses approximately 3000 marine creatures. These creatures belong to more than a hundred different species and are displayed in 31 different aquariums.

The Whalers Museum is situated in the parish and municipality of Lajes do Pico, on the island of Pico, in the Azores. This location is significant as it is where the last sperm whale was captured in the waters of the Azores in 1987, marking the end of whaling in Portugal. The museum is part of the Regional Museum Network and is an extension of the Pico Museum.

The Vasco da Gama Aquarium, located in Dafundo, near Lisbon, is one of the oldest aquariums in the world. It is a public aquarium run by the Portuguese Navy's Cultural Commission. The aquarium was conceived as part of the celebrations of the 4th centenary of Vasco da Gama's departure from Portugal on his voyage to discover the sea route to India.

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

The Science Museum of the University of Coimbra is situated in the Chemical Laboratory of the university. It was officially opened to the public on December 5, 2006. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, combining historical architecture with modern scientific exhibits.

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

The House of the Prince, also known as the House of the Old Customs Street, is a museum located in Porto, Portugal. It is one of the oldest buildings in the city, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the region. The museum is traditionally considered the birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in the Portuguese Age of Discovery.

The Paper Mill, also known as Moinho dos Caniços, is a historic building situated in Leiria, Portugal. It is located on the left bank of the Lis River, east of the Church of Santo Agostinho and next to the Caniços bridge. This former mill dates back to the medieval era and was specifically created for the production of paper. Today, it has been converted into the Paper Museum.

The Portuguese Centre of Photography is housed in a large, historic building in Porto. This building, which was completed at the end of the 18th century, has been a significant part of the city's history and now serves as a unique setting for the museum.

The Madeira Ethnographic Museum is situated in the parish and municipality of Ribeira Brava, Madeira, Portugal. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into the traditional culture of the Madeira archipelago.

Badoca Safari Park is a unique combination of a zoo and a theme park, situated in the picturesque location of Vila Nova de Santo André, within the municipality of Santiago do Cacém in Portugal. This location offers a blend of natural beauty and exciting wildlife encounters, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The Quinta das Cruzes Museum, located in Funchal on the island of Madeira, is a decorative arts museum that was officially opened to the public in 1953. It houses a collection of Portuguese and European decorative arts, including furniture, silverware, jewelry, and European and Oriental ceramics. The museum's pieces date from the 15th century to the first half of the 20th century.

The Monastery of St Martin of Tibães is situated in the parish of Mire de Tibães, close to Braga in northern Portugal. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors. The monastery's rich history and architectural beauty make it a notable site for tourists.

The Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval, also known as Palácio dos Duques de Cadaval in Portuguese, is a significant historical site located in the acropolis of Évora, Portugal. The palace has been a part of Casa Cadaval since its inception, making it a site of historical importance. The palace is a blend of Mudejar, Gothic and Manueline architectural styles, offering a unique visual experience for visitors.

The Centro das Artes - Casa das Mudas is an architectural marvel that has received international recognition for its seamless integration into the surrounding landscape. It is situated in the municipality of Calheta, in the western part of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, and is just a short 30-minute drive from the city of Funchal. This makes it a convenient destination for tourists who are staying in or near the city.

The Design Centre Nini Andrade Silva is a unique establishment created by the renowned Madeiran designer, Nini Andrade Silva. It is a multifaceted center that houses a museum with a permanent exhibition, a shop, and a restaurant. This combination of elements provides a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors, allowing them to explore the world of design, indulge in shopping, and enjoy a culinary journey.

Casa Barbot, also referred to as Casa e jardins da família Barbot, is situated on Avenida da República, in the city and municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia, in the Porto District of Portugal. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for tourists visiting the area.

The Bread Museum, located in Seia, Portugal, is a unique institution dedicated to the theme of bread. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the history, culture, and significance of bread in Portugal and beyond. Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in a multisensory experience that includes thematic rooms, a library-bar, a traditional grocery store, and a restaurant.

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

The D. Diogo de Sousa Museum is situated in the city of Braga, Portugal. This location is significant as it places the museum in the heart of a region rich in history and culture, providing an ideal setting for the exploration of the past.

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

The Museu do Traje, established in 1997, is situated in the historic center of Viana do Castelo. This location not only makes it easily accessible for tourists but also adds to the cultural and historical significance of the museum.

The Roman ruins of Milreu, classified as a National Monument, are located in the civil parish of Estói in the municipality of Faro, Portugal. These ruins are the remains of an important Roman villa rustica and are considered the most prominent and well-preserved evidence of Roman presence in the Algarve.

The Douro Museum, situated in Peso da Régua, is a cultural institution dedicated to the study and promotion of the heritage of the Douro Demarcated Region and its wines. The museum's focus is particularly on Port wine, a globally recognized product of the region. Visitors to the museum can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the region's wine production history and the cultural significance of its wines.

The Nadir Afonso Contemporary Art Museum, also known as MACNA, is situated in the city of Chaves in Portugal. This museum is dedicated to contemporary art and was inaugurated in July 2016. It is housed in a building designed by the renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira.

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 Porto Tram Museum, which opened its doors in May 1992, is located in the former Massarelos thermoelectric power station in Porto, Portugal. This unique location adds a historical touch to the museum, making it a fascinating place to explore the history of trams and public transportation in the city.

The Boqueirão Whale Factory, situated in the town and municipality of Santa Cruz das Flores on the island of Flores in the Azores, is now home to the Boqueirão Whale Factory Museum. This location offers visitors a unique insight into the history and culture of the region, with the museum providing a detailed look at the whale oil production industry that once thrived here.

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

The Mercado de Escravos, or Slave Market, is a significant historical site in Lagos, Portugal. It is situated on the very location where the first slave market of the modern era in Europe was established in 1444. This makes it a place of great historical importance, offering visitors a glimpse into a dark chapter of European history.

Lagos Zoo, also known as Lagos Zoological Park, is a place of education and entertainment. It is situated between the towns of Barão de São João and Bensafrim, in the Municipality of Lagos, Portugal. The park is known for its planning, both in the design of its spaces and in the recreation of suitable environments for the animals.

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

Zoo Santo Inácio, the largest zoo in northern Portugal, is situated in Avintes, Vila Nova de Gaia. Since its inauguration in 2000, it has become home to over 700 animals from 250 different species. This diverse collection of wildlife offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of animals in one location.

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

The Quartz Museum, also known as the Galopim de Carvalho Interpretation Center, is a unique institution as it is the first museum dedicated solely to a single mineral, quartz. This focus allows for a deep exploration of the mineral's properties, uses, and significance in various fields.

The Pius XII Museum, located in the building of the Conciliar Seminary of Santiago in Braga, is a museum dedicated to Sacred Art and Archaeology. Founded in 1957 by Canon Luciano Afonso dos Santos, the museum is a testament to the founder's efforts in researching Sacred Art and Archaeology, especially in the Minho region, and particularly in Braga.

Casa do Penedo, also known as the Stone House, is situated between Celorico de Basto and Fafe, specifically in the parish of Moreira do Rei, Municipality of Fafe, in the Northern Region of Portugal. This unique house is nestled among four large rocks that form part of the house's structure, giving it its name which translates to 'House of the Rock'.

The Henrique and Francisco Franco Museum is a Portuguese modern art museum located in downtown Funchal, on the island of Madeira. It is dedicated to the works of the Franco brothers, Henrique and Francisco, who were both natives of Madeira. Henrique was a painter and Francisco was a sculptor, and their works form the core of the museum's collection.

Capelinhos is a volcano situated in the western part of Faial Island, in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. It forms the westernmost cape of Faial Island, known as Ponta dos Capelinhos. The volcano presents itself as an eroded volcanic cone with an altitude of 143 meters, with cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.

The Nogueira da Silva Museum is situated in the city of Braga, Portugal. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.

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

In 2022, the Alberto Sampaio Museum recorded 68,490 entries, making it one of the most visited monuments in the northern region of Portugal. This popularity indicates the museum's appeal and its significance as a cultural destination.

The Image Museum, located in Braga, Portugal, is a unique institution dedicated to the art and history of photography. It offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of this medium, showcasing a variety of historical cameras and a vast collection of photographs.

The Museu do Abade de Baçal is situated in the former Episcopal Palace of Bragança, in the current parish of Sé, Santa Maria and Meixedo, in the city and Municipality of Bragança, in the District of Bragança, in Portugal. This location gives the museum a historical and cultural significance, as it is housed in a building that has been a part of the city's history for centuries.

The Military Museum of Porto, known as Museu Militar do Porto in Portuguese, is an institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the military history of Portugal. It is a part of the Portuguese Army and is located in the city of Porto. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that provide a comprehensive overview of the country's military past.

The Museu de Arte Sacra, located in Funchal, Madeira, is a museum dedicated to Christian art and liturgical devices. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Christian art, with a particular focus on liturgical devices.

The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, often simply referred to as the Palace of the Dukes, is a national palace situated in the parish of Oliveira, São Paio, and São Sebastião, in the city of Guimarães. This historical monument is a significant part of Portugal's cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into the country's rich history.

The Museu de Arte Sacra de Moura, or the Museum of Sacred Art of Moura, is located in the São Pedro collegiate church. This has been its home since 2004, providing a unique setting for the museum's collection. The church itself is a significant part of the museum experience, adding to the historical and cultural richness of the exhibits.

The Jorge Vieira Museum is an art museum situated within the Castle of Beja, in the Alentejo region of Portugal. The museum is dedicated to the works of the renowned sculptor, Jorge Vieira. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate the artistic contributions of Vieira.

Quinta das Palmeiras is a unique structure on the island of Porto Santo, Madeira. It is a small botanical garden and zoo, offering a green space in a dry area to the west of the airport. This location allows visitors to observe a variety of ornithological species and lush plants.