Casa da Música travel guide

Casa da Música, or the House of Music, is a remarkable modern concert hall located in Porto. Its history dates back to 1999 when Porto was chosen to be the European Capital of Culture in 2001.

The Dutch architect, Rem Koolhaas, was commissioned to design this unique building, which became a symbol of contemporary architecture worldwide. The construction began in 1999 and took nearly six years to complete, finally opening its doors to the public in 2005.

Casa da Música is now home to three orchestras: the Orquestra Nacional do Porto, Orquestra Barroca and Remix Ensemble. It is a cultural beacon in Porto, hosting a diverse range of music genres from classical to experimental music, and is considered one of the most important concert halls in Portugal.

Casa da Música is not just an architectural marvel, but also a hub of cultural activity. Its unique polyhedral shape, designed by the renowned architect Rem Koolhaas, is a distinct contrast to the traditional architecture of Porto. The exterior is made of white concrete, while the interior is adorned with unique materials such as gold leaf, wood, and coloured glass.

The building consists of two main auditoriums: the Grand Auditorium featuring an oval shape with seating for 1,238 spectators and the Small Auditorium with a more intimate setting. The Grand Auditorium is notable for its unique sound diffusion system, designed to provide an optimal acoustic experience. The roof of the building is a significant feature too, offering panoramic views of the city.

The building also houses a restaurant, a music shop, and several bars, ensuring a full cultural experience for visitors. Casa da Música is not just a concert hall, but a vibrant cultural hub that perfectly combines the contemporary with the traditional, making it an unmissable stop in Porto.

Discover Casa da Música, a prime feature of Porto, in the vibrant Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau e Vitória. Casa da Música is situated at Av. Da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071 Porto, Portugal, just a short distance from Monument to the Heroes of the Peninsular War and Gardens of the Crystal Palace, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Casa da Música, 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 Porto, a city in Portugal rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Porto travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Casa da Música is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Porto, Portugal. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Porto, Porto Airport is approximately 5.8 miles (9.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Casa da Música by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Porto, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Casa da Música, which is located 1.2 miles (2 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Av. Da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071 Porto, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Casa da Música!

The best time to explore Casa da Música, one of Porto's most renowned landmarks, is between April and June, and September to November. These months offer mild, pleasant weather, perfect for enjoying the architectural marvel and its surroundings. The summer months, July and August, while beautiful, can be quite crowded. Opting for the shoulder seasons ensures fewer tourists, enhancing the overall experience. Also, keep an eye on the calendar for special music festivals and concerts that Casa da Música hosts throughout the year. These events breathe an additional layer of life into the site, with genres ranging from classical to contemporary. For a multi-faceted experience, plan your visit to coincide with Porto's Sao Joao Festival in June, where the city is alive with music, dancing, and fireworks, with Casa da Música being a focal point. Remember to book your tickets in advance for any performances, as the venue is popular and shows often sell out quickly.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Porto, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Casa da Música.

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

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

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

Choosing the right accommodation near Casa da Música from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Porto can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Casa da Música, 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 Casa da Música, Porto boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to church, the top attractions in Porto offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Porto is Luís I Bridge, located at Ponte Luís I, 4000 Porto, Portugal. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Gardens of the Crystal Palace is worth seeing when you're in Porto. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at R. De Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto, Portugal.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Porto Cathedral completes any trip to Porto. This church draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, 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 Porto below to discover even more incredible places to explore.