Welcome to our ultimate guide to exploring the best Porto museums! Portugal is steeped in history and culture. And the Porto museums offers a wide array displays that cater to all tastes and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for an enjoyable day out, we will help you navigate through the must-see museums and hidden gems that this captivating city has to offer.
When embarking on your museum adventure,plan at least two hours per museum to fully immerse yourself in the exhibits. It is also important to dress comfortably. Opt for casual fits that allows you to move freely. And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes while! A light jacket or sweater is also recommended, as indoor temperatures can vary.
While in town it is important to pick where to stay in Porto. There are charming boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses nestled in the heart of the city that offer easy access to museums and other attractions.
Also Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a Porto wine tour, where you can sample the region’s famous Port wine and learn about its production. Treat your taste buds to the delicious local cuisine at Porto’s restaurants diverse array of restaurants, ranging from traditional Portuguese fare to innovative fusion dishes.
For outdoor enthusiasts the surrounding areas offer fantastic Porto hiking trails that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty. And, as the sun sets, experience Porto’s nightlife by visiting lively bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to all preferences.
Doing a Libson & Porto itinerary, this is a fantastic 7-day plan to ensure you don’t miss out on anything!
You will want to look into the Porto Card if you are planning to spend a few days in town!
The Best Porto Museums
Porto Tram Museum (Museu do Carro Elétrico)
Famous worldwide for its historic trams, one of the best museums Porto, Portugal has to offer is the Tram Museum Porto. The vintage yellow trams connecting streets and neighborhoods have always been an effective and popular mode of transportation, but have become a charming feature that many tourists seek to experience.
Trams in Porto have been around since 1872, and the Tram Museum showcases their interesting history and cultural significance of them. The museum is actually located in an old tram depot, adding a sense of nostalgia to the historic experience.
The museum houses an impressive collection of vintage tram cars from throughout city’s history along with exhibits featuring informative and interactive displays about the history and social impact the tram and electric cars has had on Porto.
Address to the Porto Tram Museum!
The Museum of Transport and Communications
AKA Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações
The National Museum of the Automobile and the Antique (Museu Nacional do Automóvel e do Antigo) in Portugal is a unique cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of antique automobiles, motorcycles, and other vintage items. Located in Vila Nova de Famalicão, just outside Porto, the museum offers visitors an unforgettable journey through the history of transportation and the fascinating world of antiques.
Founded by collector António Augusto Moreira da Silva in 1993, the museum boasts an impressive collection of over 60 classic vehicles, including rare models from prestigious brands such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, and Mercedes-Benz. The exhibition showcases the evolution of automotive design and engineering from the early 20th century to the 1980s.
In addition to the remarkable vehicle collection, other highlights are vintage items, such as bicycles, motorbikes, radios, telephones, cameras, and typewriters. These exhibits offer a glimpse into the technological advancements and lifestyle changes of the past century, reflecting the museum’s broader mission of preserving historical artifacts for future generations.
The National Museum of the Automobile and the Antique also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, aiming to engage visitors and promote a deeper appreciation for the history of transportation and antiques. The museum’s spacious facilities and charming garden make it an ideal destination for families, groups, and automobile enthusiasts.
Address to find one of the best Porto Museums, the Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações.
- FAQ About Porto Museums
You will want to look into the Porto Card if you are planning to spend a few days in town!
Portuguese Center of Photography (Centro Português de Fotografia)
Gorgeously transformed from an old prison into an incredible museum displaying extraordinary photography exhibitions, the Portuguese Centre of Photography is one of the best museums in Porto. There are a few free museums Porto has to offer, but this is by far one of the most fascinating choices. It has been remolded and was a former prison before becoming a museum.
It showcases a vast collection of vintage cameras and has many displays showing very moving photography of historic Portuguese hardship. Coming here almost feels as if you’re visiting two museums in one since there is so much history and information about the renovated prison as well, not to mention there are some gorgeous city views from the windows. Even if you do not have a strong interest in photography, this museum is well worth a visit.
Photography Porto Museums address
MMIPO- Museu da Misericórdia do Porto
The MMIPO might be the best history museum Porto has. This fascinating museum showcases the history of the Misericórdia of Porto and a large art collection reflecting the memory and history of the organization.
In the heart of the historic city centre, MMIPO is located in the Rua das Flores and there are multiple exhibits based on the past, present, and future of this neighborhood. There is also a nice bar with a stunning view of Porto on the rooftop terrace.
National Museum Soares dos Rei -Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis
Located in a gorgeous 18th-century Carrancas palace with Portuguese sculpture and ceramics and Flemish paintings, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Rei is one of the top art museums in Porto.
You can easily lose a few hours marveling at the artwork here. This museum highlights Portuguese artists throughout the years, from the 16th century to the contemporary area. In Porto, the museum’s art displays are always impressive, but the wide range of collections from paintings to ceramics here makes this museum truly one of a kind.
On top of the incredible art, a highlight of this institute is the remarkable staff, truly going above and beyond to meet guests’ needs. When looking for Porto museums and galleries, make sure to add Porto’s oldest public and most visited museum to your list.
Soares dos Reis National Museum address, is right next to the Crystal Palace and the Central Hospital.
Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art- Serralves Museum Porto
The most well-known art museum Porto has is the Serralves Museum, or the Museu Serralves, Serralves Porto, it has so many names! This renowned contemporary art museum is a part of the Serralves Foundation, which consists of multiple cultural institutes in Porto and has a goal to raise the general public’s awareness and appreciation for contemporary art.
The Serralves Museum has a permanent collection, showcasing paintings, sculptures, videos, and performance art, and a temporary exhibitions that focuses on unique themes, artistic movement, and emerging artists.
The temporary exhibits will spark a very interesting conversation in the contemporary and modern art scenes and is a highlight of many visitors’ trips to Porto. When visiting the best contemporary and modern art museum Porto has to offer, don’t miss the chance to engage with interactive art!
- Buy a ticket for the Serralves Museum before you arrive!
- Porto Museum modern art address, the are one of the best museums in Portugal.
Casa de Serralves- Museum Modern Art Porto
Next, we have the Casa de Serralves, another institute that is a part of the Serralves Foundation. Focusing on contemporary architecture, modernism, and art deco architecture, the Casa de Serralves is a one of the best art galleries.
The magnificent art deco house offers a really unique blend of Portuguese heritage and artistic experiences. Being a pink 1930s art deco mansion with extensive and fascinating grounds and beautiful gardens scattered with sculptures, this is definitely one of the most fascinating Porto modern art museums.
Livraria Lello
Famously associated with Harry Potter, this historic bookstore is a must-see for any fans of J.K. Rowling’s work. The story behind this “Harry Potter Museum” is actually that J.K. Rowling was an English teacher in Porto and used to visit Livrario Lello on the weekends, she loved the details and the architecture so much that she later used it as inspiration for many scenes of Hogwarts.
With its grand staircase and dramatic architecture, Livrario Lello has a special, magical atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re truly walking the halls of Hogwarts. Even if you aren’t a Potterhead, the stunning architecture of this bookstore is well worth a visit. Livraria Lello has gotten quite popular though, as it is one of the most famous museums in Porto, Portugal, so make sure to book your ticket ahead of time before visiting.
- You can also book a walking tour of Porto with entrance tickets to the Famous Libary!
- Livraria Lello Address, the are apart of the porto card!
Port Wine Museum (Museu do Vinho do Porto) WOW- World of Wine Museum Porto-
WOW- this is the best wine museum Porto has to offer! The World of Wine Museum, or WOW, is a completely unique museum experience. The World of Wine is actually not just a single museum, but a cultural and entertainment complex in the historic city center, with a variety of different museums, shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms.
Doing the Wine Experience takes you through the history of the grape, the significance of different regions, and everything in between from grape to glass. You even get to taste the wine when visiting, and with the help of the helpful and passionate sommeliers, you will find the perfect wine to match exactly what you’re looking for.
When looking for the best wine museum Porto has, the World of Wine is an obvious choice, and for a good reason.
Planet Cork At World of Wine Complex
Also located in the World of Wine complex, Planet Cork is an interesting and interactive museum teaching you about the importance of cork in Porto. Portugal is the world’s largest cork-producing country.
And a lot more goes into the cork process than you may assume. It’s a very fun and interactive experience, first teaching you about cork and then letting you actually make your own wine cork. This is one of the best Porto museums to visit after your Porto wine tour!
Book a ticket to enjoy Planet Cork!
Pink Palace- Museu do Rosé
Up next in the World of Wine complex, we have the Pink Palace. This is one of the more fun and entertaining museums in Porto, focusing on Rosé and photo ops. The Pink Palace is incredibly interactive, with fun displays throughout, including a ball pit!
You will learn about Rosé wine throughout, and even get to have some tastings. This is also an amazing place to bring kids, and they even have ice-blended grape juice so the kids can try their own “wine”.
Grab a ticket to the Pink Palace and miss the long lines!
The Chocolate Story
Chocolate lovers will argue that this is the best museum in Porto, the Chocolate Story is located in the World of Wine Complex and showcases the history of chocolate, how it is made, and the cultural significance linking chocolate and Portugal.
The displays are very interactive, showing different chocolate commercials throughout history, the history of the cacao bean, and the best part letting you taste different chocolates along the way. YUM!
Purchase a ticket to enjoy Portos best chocolate!
World of Discoveries Museum Porto
The World of Discoveries in Porto is the top history museum Porto, Portuga has. This fascinating museum showcases the history of early Portuguese navigators, with interesting and creative exhibits.
This museum is one of a kind and is more like a theme park and even offers an immersive trip on a boat ride throughout the building, making you feel like you’re right there with the sailors in the 15th century. With its fun and interactive displays, World of Discoveries is the best museum Porto has for kids.
- Grab an entry ticket for the World of Discoveries, to skip the line!
- World of Discoveries in Porto address
Natural History and Science Museum of the University of Porto
The natural history museum in Porto is committed to promoting knowledge. Its extensive collections of geology, paleontology, zoology, archaeology and ethnography, botany, and science, evolution, diversity, and the relationship between the natural and cultural worlds.
You can explore the two seperate sections the Historic Building of the Rectory of U.Porto, as well as a Hall with a biodiversity gallery and Porto’s Botanical Garden. It offers a unique experience, showcasing some of the most extraordinary objects and phenomena.
With a clear focus on dissemination, communication, and outreach, conservation and research, the MHNC-UP promises to be a museum which will tell stories about life, highlighting prominent figures in the history of the Museum and their pathways.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the best history museums in Porto and discover the wonders of natural history and science!
Find the address to the Natural History & Science Porto Museums.
Romantic Museum Porto- Museu Romântico
If you are coming on a weekend, you’ve found yourself another one of the free museums in Porto. The Romantic Museum is free on weekends, and only a couple of euros if you’re visiting on a weekday.
The house museum is absolutely beautiful, located in a magnificent mansion, and the museum showcases period art and furnishings throughout the house. It has gorgeous gardens and an amazing view over the Duoro River.
The Romantic Museum is very interesting as it is where Charles Albert of Sardinia found refuge after being defeated by the Imperial Austrian Army. The king’s room have been redecorated in his memory, so it offers an interesting take on a fascinating historical story as well as the charm of the gorgeous rooms and is definitely worth visiting.
Romantic Museum of Quinta da Macieirinha address: It is surrounded by the beautiful Palácio de Cristal Botanical garden.
Museum of the Holocaust in Porto
The Museum of the Holocaust in Porto (Museu do Holocausto no Porto) is a new cultural institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and educating visitors about the tragic events that took place during World War II. The museum opened in 2021, aims to honor the victims of the Holocaust and promote tolerance, human rights, and respect for diversity.
Located in the heart of Porto, Portugal, the museum will feature a permanent exhibition that documents the history of the Holocaust, with a particular focus on the experiences of Portuguese Jews. The exhibition will include personal testimonies, photographs, and artifacts from survivors, providing a powerful and moving account of the atrocities that occurred during this dark period in human history.
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the Museum of the Holocaust in Porto will also host temporary exhibitions, educational programs, conferences, and cultural events. These initiatives are designed to raise awareness about the Holocaust and its consequences, as well as to foster dialogue and understanding between different cultures and religions.
The museum is a project of the Jewish Community of Porto (Comunidade Israelita do Porto) and is supported by various organizations, institutions, and individuals who share the common goal of preserving the memory of the Holocaust and promoting the values of tolerance and human rights. This is a great stop along your tour of the best Porto museums.
- There is also a guided tuk-tuk ride of the Jewish Heritage around Porto.
- Address to the Museu do Holocasuto do Porto.
FC Porto Museum
The FC museum is one of the top Porto museums, officially known as the FC Porto Museum by BMG (Museu do Futebol Clube do Porto), is a state-of-the-art museum dedicated to celebrating the history, achievements, and culture of the renowned Portuguese football club, FC Porto. Located at Estádio do Dragão, the club’s home stadium in Porto, Portugal, the museum offers an immersive and interactive experience for football (soccer) fans.
Inaugurated in 2013, the Futeball Club Porto Museum showcases the rich history of the club, which was founded in 1893. The museum covers over impressive 120 years of the team’s journey, highlighting its memorable moments, legendary players, and numerous titles and trophies. The prestigious collection includes the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, Intercontinental Cup, and various domestic league and cup titles.
The museum’s exhibition space is divided into various thematic areas, each focusing on different aspects of the club’s history.
- “Valquíria Dragão” (Dragon’s Valkyrie), a stunning sculpture made from over 15,000 official FC Porto pins;
- “Sala dos Troféus” (Trophy Room), displaying the club’s extensive collection of awards;
- “Sala dos Presidentes” (Presidents’ Room), featuring portraits and information about the presidents who have led the club throughout its history.
Enjoy Interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and holographic projections provide engaging and informative content that brings the club’s history to life. There is also an audio guide available in multiple languages, ensuring that visitors from around the world can enjoy the exhibits!
In addition to the main exhibition space, the museum offers guided tours of Estádio do Dragão, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the iconic stadium and experience the atmosphere of match day. The tour includes access to the players’ tunnel, dressing rooms, presidential box, and pitchside areas.
The National Press Museum
The Portuguese Printing Press Museum (Museu Nacional da Imprensa) is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of print media and its impact on society.
Established in 1997 by the journalist and researcher José Luís Ramos Pinheiro, the museum features a diverse collection of printing presses, typographic machines, and other historical artifacts. The exhibits span from the 15th century to the present day, offering a comprehensive overview of the advancements in printing techniques and their influence on journalism, literature, and art.
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum organizes temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the history and significance of print media. You can participate in hands-on activities such as letterpress printing and bookbinding or attend lectures and conferences on various topics related to the world of print.
The Portuguese Printing Press Museum also hosts the annual International Cartoon Festival, which showcases the work of talented cartoonists from around the world and promotes the art of satire and humor through various competitions and events. This is one of the best Porto museums for all ages!
Address to the National Press Museum in Porto.
Casa Museu Guerra Junqueiro
Casa Museu Guerra Junqueiro is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the renowned Portuguese writer and poet, Guerra Junqueiro. Located in Porto, Portugal, the museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century Baroque building that was once the residence of the poet.
The museum’s collection showcases a wide range of artifacts, including furniture, ceramics, textiles, glassware, and metalwork, which provide insight into the artistic and cultural landscape of 18th and 19th-century Portugal. Many of these items were part of Guerra Junqueiro’s personal collection, reflecting his diverse interests and sophisticated taste.
In addition to the decorative arts, the Porto museum also features a comprehensive collection of Guerra Junqueiro’s literary works, manuscripts, and correspondence. These documents offer a glimpse into the poet’s creative process and his thoughts on various social, political, and cultural issues of his time. Among the highlights of the collection are early editions of Junqueiro’s most famous works, such as “A Morte de D. João” and “Os Simples.”
Casa Museu Guerra Junqueiro also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs aimed at promoting an appreciation for the poet’s work and the broader context of Portuguese art and culture. You can take a guided tour or listen in on a lecture.
Address ot the Casa of Guerra Junqueiro
Military Museum of Porto
The Military Museum of Porto (Museu Militar do Porto) is a historical museum that is dedicated to showcasing the country’s military history and its role in various conflicts throughout the centuries.
The main building is housed in a 19th-century building that was once a military barracks. You will see inside the Porto museum an extensive collection of artifacts, including machine guns , uniforms, photographs, and old war documents.
The exhibits at the Military Museum of Porto cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of Portuguese military history to the modern era. Visitors can explore displays about the Napoleonic Wars, the Portuguese Colonial War, and the role of the Portuguese Armed Forces in World War I and II. The museum also highlights the importance of Porto in the context of Portugal’s military history.
Casa Museu Teixeira Lopes
Casa-Museu Teixeira Lopes is a museum and cultural historic center is located in Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto, Portugal. Established in the former residence of the renowned Portuguese sculptor António Teixeira Lopes, the museum showcases an extensive collection of art, including sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and other decorative items, as well as archaeological artifacts.
This Porto museum’s collection features works by prominent Portuguese and international artists, such as Marques de Oliveira, Soares dos Reis, and Auguste Rodin, reflecting Teixeira Lopes’ wide-ranging artistic interests and connections.
In addition to its permanent exhibition, Casa-Museu Teixeira Lopes hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, aimed at fostering an appreciation for art and culture. There is also features like the beautiful gardens and a few event spaces.
Find the address to Casa-Museu Teixeira Lopes here, it is one of the best Porto Museums!
Casa do Infante In Porto
Casa do Infante, also known as the House of the Prince and the and the old customs house, is a historical building and museum in the heart of Porto. The site holds great significance as it is believed to be the birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator. Who was a key figure in the Age of Discovery who played a vital role in Portugal’s maritime explorations.
The building dates back to the 14th century and has served various purposes over the years, including a busy customs house, a mint, and the residence of the royal family. Today, the Casa do Infante functions as a one of the best Porto museums, showcasing the rich history of Porto and its connection to Portugal’s golden age of exploration.
You can explore the Roman archaeological remains found beneath the building, which provide insight into Porto’s ancient past. The museum also features exhibits on the history of the customs house and the mint, as well as displays about Prince Henry the Navigator and his contributions to Portugal’s maritime achievements.
In addition to its historical exhibitions, Casa do Infante hosts educational programs and cultural events, aimed at promoting a deeper appreciation for Porto’s heritage and the city’s role in Portugal’s history.
Casa do Infante in Porto address
Which are the best museums in Downtown Porto?
The best museums in Downtown Porto are a mix of the old and the new, showcasing ancient treasures and contemporary art. The Museum of Porto is a must-see, with its extensive collection of historical artifacts, while the Serralves Museum is a modern gem, with its cutting-edge exhibitions and stunning contemporary architecture. The National Museum Soares dos Reis and Casa-Museu Guerra Junqueiro are also worth a visit, offering unique insights into the history of the city and the country.
Are there any cheap museums in Porto?
There are several cheap museums in Porto that won’t break the bank. For example, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis offers free entry every Sunday and is home to a diverse collection of Portuguese art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Another option is the Museu do Carro Eléctrico, which showcases the history of Porto’s trams and costs only €4 per person. So, if you’re on a budget but still want to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, there are definitely cheap museums in Porto out there waiting for you to discover.
Are museums free in Porto?
Yes! There are plenty of free museums in Porto. You may need to just plan your visits on certin days. For example, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art allows visitors to enter for free on Sundays between 10am and 1pm. Additionally, the National Museum Soares Dos Reis offers free admission every Sunday and on national holidays. These opportunities give visitors the chance to explore Porto’s impressive collection of art, history, and more without breaking the bank.
What is Porto most known for?
Porto is most widely known for being the hometown of port wine in Portugal. This fortified wine is produced in the Douro Valley, which is not far from Porto, and has been a significant part of Porto’s heritage for centuries.
The city’s historical district, Ribeira, is full of vibrant port wine cellars, where you can discover the production process and sample various types of port wine. Besides port wine, Porto is also known for its beautiful architecture, iconic bridges, and stunning riverside views. The combination of these elements makes Porto a unique and enticing destination for travelers from around the world.
How many days do you need in Porto?
You need 3-4 days in Porto. Porto is an enchanting city with a lot of charm, history, and culture that is just begging to be explored. And while it may be tempting to try and fit everything into just a few short days, in order to truly experience all that Porto has to offer, it’s recommended that you take at least 3-4 days in Porto to fully immerse yourself in everything this beautiful city has to offer.
From wandering through the historic districts to sipping on delicious local wines in the Douro Valley region, there are endless opportunities to soak up the beauty and culture of Porto. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this vibrant Portuguese city!
Is Porto expensive to eat and drink?
No, Porto is not expensive to eat and drink. It is actually more affordable than eating out in Lisbon. From the charming cafes serving homemade pastries to the local taverns serving up hearty traditional meals, there are plenty of restaurants in Porto to suit a range of budgets. And of course, no visit to Porto is complete without trying the famous port wine, which can be enjoyed in various settings from upscale wine bars to cozy taverns along the riverfront.
Overall, while there may be some pricier options available, with a bit of research and exploration, it’s more than possible to enjoy the flavors of Porto without breaking the bank.
