National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

The Basics

Theazulejo, or tile, is one of Portugal’s lasting treasures. These delicate works of art decorate homes, churches, streets, and buildings all over Lisbon and the country, depicting everything from major historical events to simple, repetitive patterns. To understand the tile’s importance in Portuguese culture, a visit to the National Tile Museum is a must. Visitors can get a closer look at this art form and see the detail that goes into each individual tile.

Visit the museum independently, on a private tour, or as a stop on the local hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)is a must-visit for history buffs, decorative arts fans, and lovers of tile work.

• Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum.

• The museum is fully accessible with ramps and lifts, and wheelchairs upon request.

How to Get There

The National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) is held within the Convent of Madre de Deus, about a 15-minute drive from central Lisbon. You can take the 718, 742, or 794 bus to Rua Madre de Deus, right in front of the museum. Alternatively, ride the metro or train to Santa Apolonia and take a short walk to the museum.

When to Get There

The museum is open from 10am to 6pm Tuesday through Sunday, except New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, and Christmas Day. Museum admission is free every Sunday until 2pm for Portuguese citizens and residents; consider visiting outside of this time to avoid crowds.

Portugal’s Longest Tile Piece

One of the highlights of the National Tile Museum is the 1,300-pieceGreat View of Lisbon. The 75-foot-long (23-meter) artwork depicts a panoramic view of the city before the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755. The country’s longest tile piece, it is made up of Portugal’s iconic blue-and-white tile motif.

Ways to explore

The azulejo is one of Portugal’s lasting treasures. These delicate works of art decorate homes, churches, streets, and buildings across Lisbon and all over the country, depicting everything from major historical events to simple patterns. You can visit the National Tile Museum on a private tour, as a stop on the local hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, or during an arty experience that combines entry with a tile-making workshop. Booking tickets in advance saves you time waiting in line on the day.

Accessibility

The museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users via ramps and an elevator. Video sign language guides are available via a phone app. The museum also has a variety of tactile replicas with accompanying audio guides in multiple languages and braille descriptions.

Age limits

None; children aged 12 and under visit for free.

What to pack

Bring a tote bag, as the museum’s gift shop is full of great souvenirs. Download the museum’s audio guide to your phone ahead of your visit, which is available via its app in multiple languages.

What to wear

The building is cool and airy, so you might need a sweater during the winter months.

Not allowed

Eating and drinking around the exhibits

Amenities

Gift shop, café, restrooms

Address

The National Tile Museum is housed in the Madre de Deus Convent, a little way outside Lisbon’s center near the main Santa Apolónia train station. However, it’s well worth the journey.

Driving

From central Lisbon, head northeast on Rua dos Douradores, then take Avenida 24 de Julho over the 25th of April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril). Continue along Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, following signs to Xabregas/Alcântara. When you reach the bus stop at Rua da Madre de Deus, turn right onto Rua da Madre de Deus, 4, and the museum will be on your left.

Public transportation

Buses 718, 742, 794, 728, and 759 all stop outside the museum. The nearest metro station is Santa Apolónia, but it’s a 20-minute walk.

Best times to visit

The museum typically opens from 10am and the last entry is at 5:15pm, 45 minutes before the museum’s 6pm closing time. Arrive well before the final entry, as you’re sure to need longer to explore.

Best days to visit

The museum offers guided tours in Portuguese on the first and third Sunday of each month. Note that the museum is closed on Mondays and select public holidays—dates are listed on its website.

Best months to visit

The cool interior of the National Tile Museum means it’s a great place to visit during Lisbon’s scorching summer from June through August.

Special events

In mid-June, the Feast of Saint Anthony (Festa de Santo António) celebrates all things Lisbon, tiles included, with street parties and parades.