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 the dynamic Avenidas Novas, the popular 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 through 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 this popular landmark in Lisbon 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, Oceanário de Lisboa, and Time Out Market Lisboa.

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 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 Lisbon. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and other top attractions in Lisbon than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Lisbon include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Calouste Gulbenkian Museum's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind 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.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and Portugal's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Portugal 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.

Conveniently explore Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and plenty more captivating attractions in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lisbon has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Calouste Gulbenkian Museum below.

Aside from Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Lisbon is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. 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 establishment and top attraction in Lisbon, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 100,000 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. Like Praça do Comércio, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 91,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment 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 86,000 visitors. 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.