Lisbon is full of fascinating museums, but one of them is a bit out of the ordinary. That's the National Museum of Azulejo Tiles, the classic ornate ceramic tiles that can be seen lining many Portuguese and Spanish homes.

Azulejos tiles are one of Portugal's main symbols, so if you're at least a little interested in local culture, a visit to this museum shouldn't be missed.

What will you see in the museum?

You'll see hundreds of beautiful frescoes, examples of common street decoration and lavish palace works.

The painted tiles will enchant you. They depict all sorts of ornaments and scenes from everyday life, and although the typical colour combination is blue and white, you will also see colourful azulejos in this museum.

The museum is spread over about 25 different sized rooms and will take you around an hour to visit.

Entrance fees and opening hours

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays) at the following times:

10:00-13:00
14:00-18:00

Last admission is allowed 30 minutes before closing time.

The ticket price is 5 eur.

Official website: museudoazulejo.pt

How to get to the museum?

The museum is located outside the centre, but can be reached within 20 minutes via buses.

Right in front of the museum you can use the Igreja Madre Deus bus stop. Click on the line number to see the timetable and map.

Line 718 - goes to Arroios (green line) and Chelas (red line) metro
Line 742 - goes to Arroios Metro (green line) and goes around the centre in a wide arc from the north
Line 759 - goes to the city centre to Pc. Comércio and Rossio (green metro line)