Lisbon isn’t just sunshine, trams, and custard tarts—it’s a city overflowing with culture, colour, and creativity.

If you're planning a trip to Portugal’s vibrant capital, diving into its art scene and museums is a must. Whether you're into classical masterpieces, street art, or cutting-edge modern galleries, Lisbon has something to make your jaw drop.

Let’s walk through the top art and museum tours in Lisbon you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. National Museum of Ancient Art Tour

If you love European art from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century, this tour is your holy grail.

Located in a 17th-century palace overlooking the Tagus River, the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga houses Portugal’s largest collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art.

A guided tour here brings centuries of history to life—especially when you see the St. Vincent Panels, or the hauntingly beautiful Hieronymus Bosch triptych.

Why take the tour?

  • The guides provide historical context that you’d miss on your own.
  • You’ll discover how Portuguese explorers influenced European art.
  • Great for lovers of religious iconography, Renaissance works, and storytelling through painting.

👉 Pro tip: Combine this with a nearby walking tour of Santos Design District for a full day of culture.

2. Berardo Collection Museum Tour (Now MAC-CCB)

Into modern and contemporary art? Head straight to the Museu de Arte Contemporânea - Centro Cultural de Belém (MAC-CCB).

Formerly the Berardo Collection Museum, this space holds jaw-dropping works from the likes of Warhol, Picasso, Dalí, Duchamp, and Pollock.

A guided tour helps you make sense of surrealism, pop art, minimalism, and all the other “isms” that can feel a bit abstract. Plus, the guides often share the juicy behind-the-scenes stories that make the art feel alive.

Why it’s worth it:

  • It’s like walking through a modern art textbook—with expert commentary.
  • Tours usually include a walk through the Belém cultural complex and riverfront.
  • Perfect for first-timers or those wanting to appreciate art without the snobbery.

👉 Nearby bonus: Pop into the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) for a futuristic fix.

3. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Tour

This one’s a hidden gem—and a personal favourite.

The Gulbenkian Museum is divided into two stunning collections: the Founder’s Collection (ancient to 19th century) and the Modern Collection (20th-century Portuguese art).

It’s serene, beautifully curated, and offers guided tours that feel more like conversations than lectures.

Expect to see Egyptian artefacts, Islamic art, and French decorative pieces in one wing… and bold, politically charged Portuguese art in the other.

Why this tour matters:

  • You get the best of both worlds: ancient and modern.
  • The guides really tailor the experience to your interests.
  • It's less crowded, so you can actually breathe while appreciating the art.

👉 Local tip: The surrounding gardens are perfect for a coffee or picnic after your tour.

4. Lisbon Street Art Tour

This one’s not your typical museum tour—and that’s the point.

Lisbon has exploded as a hub for street art, with massive murals decorating entire buildings. From political graffiti to massive works by world-renowned artists like Vhils and Bordalo II, the city’s walls speak volumes.

A guided street art tour walks (or bikes) you through neighbourhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and LX Factory, where urban art changes almost weekly.

Why you can’t skip this:

  • You’ll learn about the artists, their messages, and the legal vs. illegal side of graffiti.
  • It gives you a totally different lens through which to see Lisbon.
  • Many tours include secret spots most tourists miss.

👉 Best for: Anyone who thinks museums are too quiet or too formal. This is the museum of the streets.

5. Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) Tour

Ever noticed those beautiful blue-and-white tiles all over Lisbon? They’re called azulejos, and they tell stories as old as the city itself.

The Tile Museum is set inside a 16th-century convent and takes you on a journey through the evolution of ceramic art in Portugal.

A tour here explains the techniques behind the tiles, the symbolism in the designs, and how azulejos went from decorative to deeply cultural.

What makes this tour great:

  • It’s not just pretty pictures—it’s Portuguese history told in ceramic.
  • The convent itself is gorgeous, especially the gold-covered chapel.
  • You’ll never look at Lisbon’s walls the same way again.

👉 Don’t miss: The panoramic tile mural of Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake.

6. Private Custom Art Tour in Lisbon

Want a more personal experience?

There are private art tours tailored to your interests—be it fine art, contemporary, photography, or even gallery hopping.

A local expert meets you, chats about your tastes, and builds a tour around what you’ll enjoy most. Some even include behind-the-scenes access or meet-and-greets with local artists.

Why it’s a top pick:

  • Fully customisable—skip the fluff, get straight to what you love.
  • Great for couples, solo travellers, or small groups.
  • You’ll get insider knowledge and possibly a few local secrets.

Quick Tips for Booking Art & Museum Tours in Lisbon:

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season (April–October).
  • Check language availability—most tours are in English, but double-check.
  • Wear comfy shoes—even indoor museums in Lisbon tend to involve a lot of walking.
  • Bring a notepad or phone if you like to jot down names of artists or pieces.
  • Don’t rush—leave space in your itinerary to reflect, snack, or sketch if you’re into that.

Final Thoughts

Lisbon’s art scene is alive, layered, and totally worth exploring—whether you're a lifelong art buff or just curious.

From ancient icons to urban graffiti, from gold-leaf chapels to spray-painted rooftops, these art and museum tours give you a deeper understanding of the city’s soul.

So next time you're in Lisbon, skip the souvenir shops and dive into its rich, colourful, and sometimes rebellious world of art.

You won’t just see Lisbon—you’ll feel it.

FAQs

Q: Are art museum tours in Lisbon suitable for kids?
Yes! Many tours offer family-friendly versions with interactive storytelling. The Tile Museum and Gulbenkian gardens are especially fun for younger visitors.

Q: Can I see these museums on my own instead of a tour?
Absolutely. But tours add expert insight, skip-the-line access, and make it easier to connect the dots between history, art, and local culture.

Q: Are the tours available year-round?
Most are, but hours may vary by season or holidays. Always check ahead and book early during summer.