Calouste Gulbenkian Museum travel guide

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is named after the Armenian oil magnate Calouste Gulbenkian, who amassed a vast collection of art and other valuable items throughout his life.

Born in 1869, Gulbenkian spent his life traveling the world and curating his remarkable collection, which spanned over 5000 pieces. Upon his death in 1955, he left his entire estate to Portugal, and the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation was established.

The Foundation set about creating a museum to house Gulbenkian's collection, and in 1969, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum was opened to the public. The museum's collection spans from antiquity to the early 20th century and includes Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Islamic, and Oriental art.

The museum also features an extensive library, concert halls, and a modern art center showcasing Portuguese and international contemporary art. The museum is surrounded by the Gulbenkian Park, a lush, tranquil garden that is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Located in Avenidas Novas (Lisbon), the iconic Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lisbon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Portugal.

Lisbon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisbon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and LX Factory.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisbon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisbon - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is located in Lisbon, Portugal, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 2.72 miles (4.38 km) away from Lisbon. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is located.

If you’re already in Lisbon, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the museum. The exact address of the attraction is Av. De Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisboa, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and other top attractions in Lisbon at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Calouste Gulbenkian Museum!

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a trip to Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, one of the most iconic attractions in Portugal drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique museum, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Calouste Gulbenkian Museum starting from 27 EUR below.

The best time to explore Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is during the spring and fall seasons, specifically between April and June, or September and November. Visiting the museum during these months offers a delightful compromise between pleasant weather and manageable crowd levels. Lisbon's temperate climate makes it possible to enjoy the museum's expansive gardens in spring, while fall brings a unique charm to the lush landscapes surrounding the museum. Special events, such as free concerts in the gardens, typically take place during summer and can enhance the overall experience. However, summer also attracts the highest number of tourists, potentially leading to crowded exhibitions. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday, preferably in the morning when the museum opens. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Lastly, keep in mind that Lisbon's weather can be unpredictable; bringing a light jacket and umbrella is recommended.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lisbon and top attractions like Calouste Gulbenkian Museum with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Lisbon, Portugal, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind museum in Portugal.

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Calouste Gulbenkian Museum becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 19 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Portugal's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lisbon and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, OK Mobility currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 4.41 EUR per day or 30.88 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Rua Da Guiné, 24, 2685-337 in Lisbon, this rental option ensures you can explore Portugal's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Calouste Gulbenkian Museum just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Lisbon.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Calouste Gulbenkian Museum below.

Lisbon offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisbon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, and Castelo de S. Jorge.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Lisbon, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 99,112 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Praça do Comércio is 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisbon is Belém Tower. This is just like Praça do Comércio, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 83,980 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this fort is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

Castelo de S. Jorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This museum and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 80,896 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Castelo de S. Jorge creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lisbon below.