Vibrant, bustling, and friendly, Lisbon is one of Europe’s most charming capitals. It’s bursting with trendy bars, fantastic food, and fascinating heritage and culture. Take a break from snaffling pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) to check out these amazing museums.
National Tile Museum
Lisbon is renowned for its beautiful tiled buildings. The National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) is a wonderful place to explore the history and development of this uniquely Portuguese art form. Set in a magnificent 16th-century convent and complete with magical gardens with resident turtles, this inspiring museum is the perfect activity for a rainy afternoon.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Housed in an iconic work of Portuguese architecture, the Calouste Gulbenkian museum is one of the most important collections of international art in Europe. Showcasing the astonishingly eclectic collection gathered by Calouste Gulbenkian, expect a whirlwind tour through Ancient Egypt, Greece, Mesopotamia, Armenia, Persia, and beyond!
Museum of Aljube – Resistance and Freedom
Installed within an ex-political prison, the Museum of Aljube was created to document the struggle against the dictatorship that governed Portugal for much of the 20th century. It’s a celebration of resistance, freedom and activism and provides a fascinating insight into this turbulent period of Portugal’s recent history.