National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

Overview

The National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) is a unique museum dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos. It houses an extensive collection of tiles from the 15th century to the present day, showcasing the evolution of this distinctive art form.

The museum is significant for its role in preserving and showcasing the history and artistry of Portuguese tiles, which are a distinctive feature of the country's architectural heritage.

Art Museum Historical Museum

Location

Address

Rua Madre de Deus 4, Xabregas, Lisbon

Neighborhood: Xabregas

Coordinates

38.708800, -9.110200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Closed

tuesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€5

Children

Free (under 12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photographs

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• Spring exhibitions
• Garden displays

summer

hot and sunny

• Extended summer hours

autumn

cool and crisp

• Fall exhibitions
• Harvest-themed displays

winter

cold and rainy

• Holiday displays
• Winter exhibitions

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

Government-issued ID Water bottle Printed tickets

seasonal

Light jacket or umbrella Sun hat

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Professional cameras without permission Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (some walking and standing)

• Stairs and uneven surfaces in some areas

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile payment

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry €5

parking €2

food €10-15

souvenirs €5-50

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Walking shoes or sneakers, Beachwear, Inappropriate or offensive clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks in advance for peak seasons
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Museu Nacional do Azulejo App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Exhibition information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Main courtyard

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)

Distance: 7 km

Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

taxi

€15-20 20-25 min

public_transport

€1.50-3 30-40 min

From City Center

Distance: 5-7 km

metro

€1.50 20 min

bus

€1.50 20-25 min

taxi

€10-15 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The museum is a testament to Portugal's rich history and artistic heritage, showcasing the unique azulejo tiles that are a defining feature of Portuguese architecture.

Historical Significance: The museum is housed in a former convent and showcases the evolution of Portuguese tiles from the 15th century to the present day, highlighting important historical periods and artistic movements.

Insider Tips

The museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of the month
The best food and drinks can be found at the café near the main entrance
Visit during the weekdays for a more peaceful experience

Local Recommendations

• Try a pastel de nata at the nearby café
• Ask for a guided tour by a local expert
• Visit the Alcântara Railway Museum nearby

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá

thank_you Obrigado/Obrigada

where_is Onde está

how_much Quanto custa

beautiful Bonito/Bonita

ticket Bilhete

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main courtyard

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the symmetry and patterns of the tiles

Result: Stunning, picturesque shots

#Azulejos #Lisbon #TileMuseum

Exhibition halls

Best Time: During daylight hours

Tips: Focus on the intricate details of the tiles

Result: Detailed, artistic shots

#PortugueseTiles #ArtLovers #MuseumPhotos

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Designated exhibition halls

prohibited areas Restricted sections, Private areas

flash photography Not allowed in exhibition halls

commercial photography Permit needed for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors

selfie sticks Allowed but please be considerate of other visitors

Nearby Attractions

Alcântara Railway Museum

Distance: 1.5 km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Museum

MAAT Museum

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Museum

LX Factory

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 35 min

Type: Shopping and Dining

Reviews

4.5

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online in advance"
"Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds"
"Don't miss the courtyard and the panoramic view of Lisbon"

Contact Information

+351 218 100 970

info@museudoazulejo.gov.pt

www.museudoazulejo.gov.pt

Social Media

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