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.

Discover Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, a prime feature of Lisbon, in the vibrant Avenidas Novas. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is situated at Av. De Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisboa, Portugal, just a short distance from Jardim Zoológico and Aqueduto das Águas Livres, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Lisbon, a city in Portugal rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Lisbon to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Lisbon travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lisbon, Portugal. If you're flying in, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 2.7 miles (4.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Calouste Gulbenkian Museum by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lisbon, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, which is located 0.4 miles (0.6 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Av. De Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisboa, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Calouste Gulbenkian Museum!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Lisbon, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic museum in Portugal.

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.

Upon arriving at Lisbon Portela Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Lisbon.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Lisbon.

Choosing the right accommodation near Calouste Gulbenkian Museum from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Lisbon can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Lisbon boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Lisbon offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Lisbon is Praça do Comércio, located at 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Belém Tower is worth seeing when you're in Lisbon. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Lisbon below to discover even more incredible places to explore.