Experts' Choice Award Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis
What the experts agree on
Porto's finest art museum showcases Portuguese painting and sculpture from the 19th century onward, housed in an ornate former royal palace with a peaceful cafe perfect for lingering over coffee.
“This museum in the Carrancas Palace has permanent collections of Portuguese painting and sculpture, including, in particular, sculptures by Soares dos Reis (1847-1889).”
– Michelin Guide
Fodor's "Collection includes several Portuguese primitive works of the 16th century as well as superb collections of silver, ceramics, glassware, and costumes." Full review
Lonely PlanetTop choice
"Porto's best art museum presents a stellar collection ranging from Neolithic carvings to Portugal’s take on modernism." Full review
Time Out "Founded in 1833 as the country’s first public museum. It has a vast collection of Portuguese artists. The museum’s attractions are the 19th and 20th century sculptures and paintings. " Full review
U.S. News & World Report13.0
"Art lovers will appreciate the expansive collection housed here, as well as the ornate building itself. Occupying a former royal residence, the museum features much of the work of its namesake." Full review
Frommer's "The most representative and unified display is that of the Portuguese 19th-century painters, particularly from the Porto School." Full review
Lonely Planet "The museum's tranquil cafe is a fine spot for a lunch special (there's always a vegetarian option) or come to linger over a coffee and slice of homemade tart." Full review
Rough Guide "Masserelos is Porto's artistic district and home to Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis"
Lonely Planet "Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis, which houses a staggering collection of ceramics, sculptures and paintings"
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June 25, 2022
Lonely Planet "Even before you step in the door, you'll feel the overarching prominence of this grand museum, facing the 19th-century Palace of the Carrancas and set in one of Porto's finest..."
