5 Must-see museums in Porto to visit in 2026

boavistaguesthouse
2 days ago
2 min read

Staying at Boavista Guest House means you’re perfectly located to explore the cultural side of Porto. If you’re looking to enrich your stay, these 5 museums offer unique experiences that combine history, art, and innovation.

1- Museu do Carro Elétrico

Housed in a former thermal power station on the banks of the River Douro, this museum offers a unique experience that combines history, engineering, and nostalgia. During the visit, you can explore a remarkable collection of carefully preserved vintage trams, which trace the evolution of public transport in Porto since the late 19th century.

This museum is a real journey back in time, ideal for the curious, families, and heritage enthusiasts.

2- Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis

Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis is one of the city’s most significant cultural venues and a must-visit for both art lovers and those wishing to discover the richness of Portugal’s artistic heritage.

The museum houses a vast and diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning several centuries of Portuguese artistic production, transforming each room into a truly immersive cultural experience.

3- Museu de Serralves

The Museu de Serralves is Portugal’s leading centre for contemporary art, bringing together exhibitions by international artists in a unique setting. Set within a stunning Art Deco estate, surrounded by extensive gardens, it offers an experience where culture, architecture, and nature come together.

It is the perfect place to relax and experience the city’s artistic energy first-hand.

4- World of Discoveries

For a more dynamic experience, World of Discoveries offers an interactive journey through Portugal’s Age of Exploration. This museum combines history with technology, allowing visitors to relive the voyages of Portuguese navigators through immersive exhibits and multimedia displays.

5- Centro Português de Fotografia

Housed in a former 18th-century prison, the Centro Português de Fotografia is a fascinating space dedicated to the art of photography. Its exhibitions range from historic archives to contemporary works, offering a unique perspective on visual storytelling.