Real Velo Club do Porto members posing for a group photo

National Museum Soares Dos Reis

National Museum Soares dos Reis: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Porto’s Historical Gem

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The National Museum Soares dos Reis (Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis) is not only Portugal’s oldest public art museum but also a vital beacon of the country’s artistic and cultural identity. Founded in 1833 by decree of King Pedro IV, it was established to safeguard Portuguese heritage during a time of political and religious transformation (Google Arts & Culture). Today, housed in the stately 18th-century Palácio das Carrancas, the museum blends neoclassical architecture with vibrant collections and innovative programming, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Porto.

Honoring the legacy of António Soares dos Reis—a leading 19th-century sculptor—this institution offers a sweeping panorama of Portuguese art through paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Its holdings span from the 16th to the 21st centuries, including several works classified as Assets of National Interest (Museus e Monumentos). With accessible facilities, modern amenities, and a commitment to education and community engagement, the museum stands as a cornerstone of Porto’s cultural landscape (Agenda Porto).

This guide is your resource for planning a memorable visit—including opening hours, ticketing details, accessibility, must-see highlights, special events, and practical travel tips.

Portrait of D. Francisco de Borja Pedro Maria António de Sousa Holstein, 1st Marquess of Sousa Holstein (1838-1878)

Portrait of D. Francisco de Borja Pedro Maria António de Sousa Holstein, 1st Marquess of Sousa Holstein

Interior view of the Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis with paintings displayed on the walls in Porto, Portugal

Historical Background and Significance

Founding and Early Development

Established in 1833, the museum’s origins are intertwined with Portugal’s liberal reforms. Initially named the Museum of Paintings and Prints and Other Fine Arts Objects (Museu Portuense), it began by preserving artistic treasures rescued from dissolved convents and monasteries. The collections grew rapidly, thanks to donations from private collectors and public institutions, and the museum soon became a hub for the arts in Porto (Google Arts & Culture).

In 1839, the museum came under the guidance of the Porto Academy of Fine Arts, cementing its reputation as a center of artistic education. Celebrated artists, including Soares dos Reis, Silva Porto, Marques de Oliveira, and Aurélia de Souza, have become central figures in its ongoing narrative (Agenda Porto).

Naming and Expansion

Following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, the museum was renamed to honor sculptor António Soares dos Reis, best known for the emotionally charged marble “O Desterrado” (Sneaky Ideas). The scope of the collection broadened under subsequent directors, notably with the integration of works from the Episcopal Palace, the Industrial Museum, and the former Municipal Museum (Agenda Porto).

Move to Palácio das Carrancas

In the 1940s, the museum relocated to the Palácio das Carrancas—an elegant neoclassical palace that had served as a royal residence and was briefly occupied by Napoleon’s troops. This move marked a new era, providing a grand architectural setting for the growing collections (Sneaky Ideas).

Modernization and Community Engagement

The turn of the 21st century saw major renovations led by architect Fernando Távora, introducing new exhibition spaces, an auditorium, and educational facilities (Agenda Porto). The museum’s dynamic programming, digital presence, and support from the Círculo Dr. José de Figueiredo Friends Association continue to foster public engagement and scholarship (MNSR Official).

Permanent Collections: Highlights and Categories

Paintings

The museum’s painting collection ranges from Renaissance religious panels to 19th-century Romanticism and Naturalism, and on to modernist works. Notable artists include:

Domingos Sequeira: Renowned for works like “A Morte de Camões.”
Silva Porto: Pioneer of plein-air painting in Portugal.
Aurélia de Souza: Celebrated for expressive self-portraits and landscapes.

Sculpture

Central to the museum’s identity, the sculpture galleries feature masterpieces by António Soares dos Reis—especially “O Desterrado” (1872)—alongside important works by his contemporaries and medieval stone carvings.

Decorative Arts

This collection showcases Portuguese and European ceramics (including 17th–18th century faience and Oriental porcelain), glassware, silverware, and furniture. The museum also houses exceptional textiles, tapestries, and ecclesiastical vestments.

Jewelry and Metalwork

Religious Reliquaries: Gilded silver and devotional objects, such as the Bust Reliquary of Saint Pantaleon.
Traditional Jewelry: Pieces reflecting Portugal’s regional goldsmithing styles.

Prints and Drawings

The museum’s print and drawing collection contains engravings, lithographs, and preparatory sketches, offering insights into both historical and artistic developments.

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays, January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st, June 24th, and December 25th (Museu Soares dos Reis Official Site)

Ticket Prices

General Admission: €10.00 (as of June 2025)
Discounts:
- Free for Portuguese nationals and residents (up to 52 visits/year with Citizen’s Card)
- 50% off for Porto Card holders
- Reductions for students, seniors, and groups
- Free entry on the first Sunday of each month and for children under 12
Purchase: Online or at the museum entrance; free lockers are available for large items

Accessibility

The museum is fully committed to inclusivity:

Step-free access and ramps at the main entrance
Elevators to all public floors
Accessible restrooms
Wheelchair availability upon request
Tactile experiences and accessible exhibition texts
Staff trained to assist visitors with diverse needs

Visitor Services and Amenities

Museum Shop: Books, souvenirs, and unique gifts
Documentation Center & Library: Research resources accessible to the public
Gardens: Camellia Garden and Rainha D. Amélia Velodrome Garden provide tranquil settings for relaxation and photography
Café: On-site for light refreshments
Educational Services: Guided tours and workshops for all ages
Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the museum

Special Exhibitions and Events

The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, thematic displays, and cultural events. These include spotlights on women artists, multicultural artifacts, and collaborations with international institutions (Museus e Monumentos). The gardens are also venues for seasonal events like the Porto Beer Fest (Porto cultural agenda).

Getting There: Location and Transportation

Address: Rua D. Manuel II, 44, 4050-342 Porto, Portugal
Metro: Closest stations are Carolina Michaelis (Lines A, B, C, E, F) and São Bento (Line D), about 20 minutes on foot
Bus: Multiple lines serve the “Hospital St. Antonio” stop nearby
Tram: Historic tram number 18 stops close to the museum
Car: Access via Almadas Tunnel or Rua Júlio Dinis; nearby public parking available
Bicycle Parking: On-site facilities for cyclists (Museu Soares dos Reis Official Site)

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your cultural day in Porto by visiting:

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (328 m)
Romantic Museum (579 m)
Livraria Lello & Irmão (586 m)
Clérigos Church and Tower (656 m)
Ribeira District and São Bento Station (short walk away)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does a typical visit take?
A: Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours; those exploring gardens or attending events may stay longer.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Portuguese and English. Booking in advance is recommended.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Absolutely. All public spaces are designed for accessibility, with wheelchairs available upon request.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.

Q: Are there Porto Card discounts?
A: Porto Card holders receive a 50% discount.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography (without flash) is permitted for personal use in most areas; check specific gallery policies.

Tips for Your Visit

Arrive early or on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Confirm photography rules on arrival.
Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights.
Download the Audiala app for self-guided audio tours and up-to-date information.
For special needs or group visits, contact +351 223 393 770 or [email protected].

Visual Media Suggestions

Feature images of the museum’s façade, galleries, and gardens with descriptive alt text (e.g., “Soares dos Reis National Museum entrance Porto,” “Carrancas Palace gardens”).
Embed a virtual tour if available on the official website.
Include a map showing the museum’s location relative to transport and attractions.

Internal Links Suggestions

Link to related guides: “Top Historical Sites in Porto,” “Visiting Porto’s Museums,” and “Porto Public Transportation Guide.”

Summary

The National Museum Soares dos Reis is a cornerstone of Portuguese cultural heritage, offering visitors a remarkable journey through the nation’s artistic evolution. With its accessible location, diverse collections, and visitor-friendly services, it stands out among Porto’s historical sites. Whether you’re passionate about art, history, or architecture, this museum provides a rich, inclusive, and memorable experience for all (Museus e Monumentos; Agenda Porto).