Arts & Culture in Lisbon
Welcome to the vibrant arts and culture scene of Lisbon, Portugal! From historic museums to contemporary art galleries, Lisbon offers a diverse range of cultural experiences awaiting exploration. Whether you're interested in uncovering the city's rich history through its architecture or immersing yourself in its modern art scene, there's something for everyone in this cultural hub. Looking for the best places to experience Fado music in Lisbon? We've got you covered with our top recommendations!
1. MAAT, Lisbon
The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology on the Tagus River is an exhibit in itself, before even considering its contents. Within, explore examples of contemporary art and experimental design. A multidisciplinary space.
2. National Coach Museum, Lisbon
One of the more niche museum experiences in Lisbon. The Museu Nacional dos Coches spotlights 17th, 18th, and 19th-century royal carriages from across Europe. An opulent visual experience.
3. Museu do Oriente, Lisbon
Interesting museum housed in a refurbished preserved-cod warehouse. A little out of the way, but worth the visit, as the collections exhibited often change.
4. Museu Nacional De Arte Antiga, Lisbon
Established in 1884 and housed in the Palácio Alvor, the MNAA is among the most substantial public collections of Portuguese art. The museum is rich in Portuguese painting and sculpture but also includes pieces from more distant locales.
5. Galeria Malapata, Lisbon
Compact art space near the Rua Augusta arch founded to promote emerging artists and increase interest in creative mediums. Malapata focuses on contemporary works with a particular emphasis on illustration.
6. Atelier-Museum Júlio Pomar, Lisbon
Gallery in a redesigned 17th-century warehouse dedicated to, and founded by, artist Júlio Pomar. Modern works, and select pieces by alternate artists are on display. Nice place to visit if you have an hour to spare.
7. Lisbon Cathedral, Lisbon
The oldest church in Lisbon is its cathedral, Sé de Lisboa. It was begun in 1147, the year Lisbon was wrested from Moorish control by Alfonso I of Portugal. It was registered as a National Monument in 1910.
8. Galeria 111, Lisbon
Founder Manuel de Brito opened Galeria 111 in 1964 after having spent time as a bookseller. The venue now functions as a fully-fledged gallery, exhibiting contemporary works from both local and international artists.
9. Fabrica Features, Lisbon
A gallery and shop featuring limited edition art and design pieces, where you can often catch an interesting exhibition or two, too. It's an ideal stop for special souvenirs, but also just for admiring local artisans.
10. 3+1 Arte Contemporânea, Lisbon
Secluded gallery favoring quality over quantity - a decision influenced, in part, by its compact space. Expect contemporary art pieces from Portuguese and international artists. Check the exhibition schedule before visiting.
11. Cristina Guerra Contemporary Art, Lisbon
This gallery was founded in 2001 by Cristina Guerra and focuses on conceptual works by contemporary Portuguese artists. The gallery supports and promotes artists' exhibitions at local and international fairs.
12. Culturgest, Lisbon
Set within one of Lisbon's most imposing buildings. Culturgest is home to live events with a more alternative slant - from performing arts and music, to workshops and cinema. The resident gallery also has a collection of Portuguese art.
13. XYZ Books, Lisbon
This studio office and gallery shop is a true gem for camera aficionados. The product of photographers Tiago Casanova and Pedro Guimaraes, it is where to find some of the most exclusive topical books.
14. Cinematica Portuguesa, Lisbon
Created in the early 1950s as a museum dedicated to the art of film and cinematography. The Cinematica Portuguesa proudly displays the cinematic past of the country - via its exhibitions, and on its big screen.
15. Galeria Vera Cortês, Lisbon
Contemporary art gallery featuring emerging artists from Portugal and abroad. Exhibited works span a range of creative disciplines and subjects. A compact but well-curated space.
16. Berardo Collection Museum, Lisbon
Contemporary art museum with over 900 pieces from artists like Marcel Duchamp, Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Yves Klein, and Picasso. A large gallery that doesn't take all day to tour - great for an injection of culture. Free on Saturdays.
17. Medeiros and Almeida Museum, Lisbon
The former house of a wealthy businessman; now a quiet museum housing a collection of artworks and artifacts. From elegant furnishings and silverware to historic paintings and tapestries. A cultural exhibition.