Carlos Lopes Pavilion (Pavilhao Carlos Lopes)

The Basics

Carlos Lopes Pavilion (Pavilhao Carlos Lopes) hosts many types of events, from dance performances to political gatherings, and while at times it may be open to all, the building primarily is rented out for conferences and other private functions. However, even if the interiors are not accessible, it is still worth stopping by to admire the 1920s architecture and craftsmanship. The Parque Eduardo VII is a major stop on many Lisbon city tours, and hop-on hop-off bus tours stop here, as well.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Pavillion is a must-see if you are interested in traditional architecture.

• Wear comfortable footwear and sunscreen when visiting the park and pavilion, especially during the summer, as the central pathway is lengthy and does not offer shade.

• The park is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

This Pavillion is situated inside the sprawling Parque Eduardo VII, in the heart of central Lisbon. The nearest metro stops are Marques de Pombal on the blue and yellow lines and Parque on the blue line. Bus numbers 207, 726, 744, 746, and 783 also stop near the park.

When to Get There

If you want to see the interior of the pavilion, check ahead of time with your tour guide or Lisbon Tourism for special events and exhibitions open to the public. The surrounding park is open 24 hours a day but is best visited at dawn (for photography) or around sunset in summer, when temperatures begin to cool down and the light is the prettiest.

Parque Eduardo VII

Parque Eduardo VII, a 62-acre (25-hectare) expanse situated inside on old quarry, is a popular stop on local tours and a great place to take photos, owing to its geometrically shaped hedges, sprawling lawns, greenhouses, and great views of the city of Lisbon and the River Targus beyond.

Ways to explore

Plan to spend a couple of hours wandering the green pathways of Parque Eduardo VII, with a stop at Carlos Lopes Pavilion included as part of the visit. The park is a major stop on many Lisbon city tours, and several hop-on hop-off bus tours stop here as well. Choose between a guided tour, which will provide more detail on the background of Carlos Lopes Pavilion, and visiting independently to explore at your own pace. Since the pavilion is an events venue, it’s also worth checking out the online calendar to see what’s on while you’re in the area.

Accessibility

Parque Eduardo VII is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the pavilion itself isn’t accessible due to stairs at its entrances.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, hat or umbrella if shade is desired

Not allowed

Large bags, alcohol, glass bottles, weapons, pets

Amenities

Exhibition space, auditoriums, and Wi-Fi (available for private events)

Address

Carlos Lopes Pavilion is located within Parque Eduardo VII in the heart of Lisbon at Sidónio Pais 16. Most visitors arrive by public transportation or on foot.

Driving

Public transport is the best way to reach Carlos Lopes Pavilion. For those who must drive, expect limited parking and higher costs than public transit. Most parking options near the park are open 24 hours; options include Parque Marquês de Pombal telpark by Empark and Estacionamento Marques Pombal.

Public transportation

The nearest metro stops to Carlos Lopes Pavillion are Marquês de Pombal on the blue and yellow lines and Parque on the blue line. Bus numbers 207, 726, 744, 746, and 783 also stop near the park.

Best times to visit

The park is open 24 hours a day, but dawn and dusk are especially pretty times to visit, with cool temperatures and beautiful light.

Best days to visit

The pavilion is often closed to the public for conferences and private events, though the exterior can be viewed on any day, even if a private event is taking place.

Best months to visit

The Carlos Lopes Pavilion is a popular landmark throughout the year, but Lisbon is especially nice to visit in the spring (April–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is mild.

Special events

The Carlos Lopes Pavilion regularly hosts a wide range of festivals and special events ranging from sports and culture to art and politics. Check the online calendar of events for up-to-date details.