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.

Located in the dynamic Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau e Vitória, the popular Casa da Música is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful street of Porto or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Portugal.

Porto 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, Porto 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 Porto and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Luís I Bridge, Gardens of the Crystal Palace, Porto Cathedral, Parque da Cidade do Porto, and Torre dos Clérigos.

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

Experience the best of both worlds in Porto, 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!

Casa da Música is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Porto, Portugal. If you're flying in, Porto Airport is approximately 5.8 miles (9.4 km) away from Porto. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Casa da Música, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Casa da Música and other top attractions in Porto than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Porto include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Casa da Música's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Casa da Música 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 concert hall in Portugal.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Casa da Música 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 Porto Airport and the street of Porto, 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 Porto and beyond.

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

Discover the best hotels for visiting Casa da Música below.

Aside from Casa da Música, Porto is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Porto, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Luís I Bridge, Gardens of the Crystal Palace, and Porto Cathedral.

Luís I Bridge is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Porto, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 79,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Luís I Bridge is Ponte Luís I, 4000 Porto, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Porto is Gardens of the Crystal Palace. Like Luís I Bridge, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 39,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is R. De Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto, Portugal.

Porto Cathedral is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Porto. This church and top attraction in Porto has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Porto below.