Azulejos are one of the details you will notice everywhere in Lisbon.
Their history in Portugal has strong Islamic and Iberian influences, and some of the earliest examples used here came from places such as Seville. Over the centuries, Portugal developed its own style and tiles became part of palaces, churches, houses and eventually entire building façades.
Today, you can find them all around Lisbon.
Here are some of my favourite places to look for them:
Madragoa
One of my favourite neighbourhoods in Lisbon.
Walk around the residential streets and simply look up. You will find many old buildings covered in different patterns and colours.
Palácio Fronteira
Located in São Domingos de Benfica, this 17th-century palace has one of the most impressive collections of historic azulejos in Lisbon.
You will find them inside the palace and throughout the gardens, showing battles, mythology and different scenes from the period. Many are still in their original location.
Viúva Lamego
One of the easiest places on this list to see while exploring central Lisbon.
The old Viúva Lamego building in Intendente was built between 1849 and 1865, and its entire façade was decorated with figurative tiles by Ferreira das Tabuletas.
It was originally connected to one of Portugal's historic ceramic factories and remains one of the most recognisable façades in Lisbon.
Convento dos Cardaes
Close to Príncipe Real, this is a place many visitors never hear about.
The convent survived the 1755 earthquake with little damage, and its church contains beautiful 18th-century tile panels of Dutch origin, together with gilded woodwork. Visits are guided.
Casa do Ferreira das Tabuletas
If you are around Bairro Alto or Chiado, stop at Largo Trindade Coelho.
This building from 1864 has one of Lisbon's most unusual tiled façades. Look closely and you can see human figures, symbols, fake architectural details and even Masonic references hidden in the design.
Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Normally this would be my first recommendation for anyone interested in Portuguese tiles.
Its collection covers more than five centuries of azulejo history and includes the famous panoramic view of Lisbon.
⚠️ Important update for 2026: the museum itself is currently closed for renovation works.
However, from 15 August, the museum will present the temporary Open Azulejo exhibition at Palácio dos Condes da Calheta, so there is still a good option if you are visiting Lisbon while the main museum is closed.
If you become interested in azulejos during your trip, have a look at Fábrica Sant'Anna.
Founded in 1741, it still produces Portuguese tiles and ceramics using traditional handmade methods. The factory can also be visited by appointment.
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You can open the maps directly on your phone and quickly see what is close to you while exploring Lisbon.
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