Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)

Lisbon's Iconic Contemporary Museum

The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology in Lisbon stands along the Tagus River. It explores how design shapes daily life through exhibitions on art history, modern architecture and technological innovation. The building itself reflects these themes with clean lines and open spaces that invite visitors to consider creative processes behind structures and objects. Located near historic neighborhoods, it connects contemporary ideas with Portugal’s cultural heritage while providing a place for reflection on how technology influences artistic expression in everyday environments.

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Museum in Lisbon

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Safety: 8.0

General Safety:	8
Accessibility:	8

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4/5

English is widely spoken by museum staff and many locals in the tourist areas of Lisbon, facilitating smooth communication for international visitors.

Highlights Description Getting there Hotels Tips Safety Articles

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

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Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) Summary

Strong in modern art and architecture. Explore contemporary exhibitions, interactive installations and rooftop terraces with scenic views over the Tagus River.

Opening hours:

Mon:	10:00 - 19:00
Tue:	Closed
Wed-Sun:	10:00 - 19:00

Public website:

www.maat.pt

Portugal – Quick facts

Guide Etiquette Holidays Other

Power Grid:	230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F Type C: Type F: Read about power adapters
Currency:	Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19
Cashless info:	Rating 4/5 Portugal has widespread acceptance of cashless payments, particularly in urban areas and larger businesses. Cards are commonly used, and mobile payment options are increasingly available. Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers:	Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison

Tipping:	Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Portugal. In restaurants, leaving a 5-10% tip is common, especially if the service is exceptional. Taxi drivers usually expect a small tip of around 5-10%, and hotel staff appreciate tips for their services.
Public drinking:	Public drinking is generally accepted in most public spaces, such as parks and beaches. However, certain municipalities may enforce restrictions in specific areas.
Public smoking:	Smoking is prohibited indoors in public places like restaurants and bars. Designated smoking areas are available in many public spaces.

Portuguese Republic Day (October)	National holiday with public celebrations and some closures, particularly in Lisbon.
Christmas (December)	Holiday celebrations and increased tourism, expect crowded areas and higher accommodation prices.
Carnival (February)	Festive celebrations with parades and events, especially in Lisbon and Madeira. Expect lively crowds.

Emergency contact:	Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Taxi apps:	Bolt, Uber
Other:	Portugal boasts rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. Public transport is reliable, and the country is known for its mild climate, especially in the southern regions.

Best times to travel

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for Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT), Portugal

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High season:	May - Sep.
Shoulder season:	March - April, Oct., Dec.

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Closed Tuesdays; rooftop walkway may close in rain or strong wind

Don't miss

🌊 Visit the iconic undulating building with panoramic river views
⚙️ Explore the preserved machinery of the historic power station
🖼️ Attend a contemporary art exhibition combining technology and architecture

You've been here?

MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is a contemporary cultural hotspot in Lisbon, opened in 2016, symbolizing a dialogue between the city's historic identity and its forward-looking creative aspirations. Its signature undulating facade, designed by Amanda Levete Architects, covered in 15,000 three-dimensional textured tiles, evokes the river's waves and Portugal’s rich ceramic traditions.

The museum complex merges a newly built gallery with the historic Central Tejo Power Station, a once pivotal industrial site now transformed into exhibition spaces that celebrate both art and engineering history. Contemporary art exhibitions feature national and international artists across varied media, inviting visitors to engage with innovative concepts and contemporary discourse.

The rooftop terrace offers spectacular views of the Tagus River and the city skyline, providing a unique outdoor experience in addition to the indoor galleries. The museum also integrates outdoor public spaces and gardens designed for relaxation and cultural reflection beside the river.

While praised for its architectural boldness and cultural ambition, some visitors mention that exhibitions can vary widely in quality and relevance and the museum can feel somewhat niche or experimental. The site also experienced a partial ceiling collapse during a 2019 storm, which has since been addressed, but it reminds visitors to be aware of occasional maintenance work. Admission prices can be seen as slightly high compared to other Lisbon museums, but many find the overall experience rewarding.

Knowledge before you go

Arrive early; Maat opens at 10:00 and crowds grow by noon.
Wear comfortable shoes – exhibits include extensive indoor walkways and outdoor terraces.
Purchase tickets online to skip the queue, especially during Lisbon’s peak tourist season.
Explore the adjacent Parque das Nações area; its modern architecture complements Maat’s exhibits and offers scenic river views.

How to travel to Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)

MAAT is located in the Belém district of Lisbon, near the banks of the Tagus River. Visitors can arrive via Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport) and then take a taxi or public transportation such as tram 15 or bus 714 west towards Belém. From central Lisbon, the museum is easily reachable by tram or a short taxi ride, situated near other landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

Access summary

From Lisbon Airport (LIS): Metro + train/taxi to Belém, about 35–45 min.
From central Lisbon (Cais do Sodré): Cascais train to Belém, 7–10 min walk.
From Cascais: Suburban train towards Lisbon, exit Belém, then short riverside walk.

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Where to stay near Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)

Belém offers a mix of boutique hotels, upscale accommodations and guesthouses, making it a charming and peaceful area to stay while visiting MAAT and exploring Lisbon’s riverside cultural sites.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

HF Fenix Lisboa Hotel

8.6

EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel

9.2

VIP Executive Picoas Hotel

9.0

EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel

Dom Pedro Lisboa Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals

8.9

TURIM Marques Hotel

8.6

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Packing recommendations for Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)

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Safety information overview

General safety

Lisbon’s Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is very safe for visitors. The building has modern security systems, CCTV and staffed entrances. Crime rates in central Lisbon are low; just stay aware of pickpockets on crowded streets and keep valuables secure.

Accessibility

Lisbon’s Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) offers excellent accessibility: wide ramps, elevators, tactile guides and wheelchair-friendly exhibits. However, some older galleries have narrow aisles and the main entrance can be crowded. Advance booking helps avoid long waits.