Gulbenkian Modern (CAM), Lisbon - Streets of Lisbon
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Gulbenkian Modern (CAM) Lisbon

4.5
·2k reviews·Lisboa, Portugal

Discover Portugal's modern art legacy at CAM Gulbenkian, featuring 20th/21st-century Portuguese and international masterpieces in a Kengo Kuma-designe...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Free entry after 2 PM

CrowdMedium
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Gulbenkian Modern (CAM), Lisbon - Streets of Lisbon

Gulbenkian Modern (CAM) Lisbon

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Free entry after 2 PM

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Portugal's modern art legacy at CAM Gulbenkian, featuring 20th/21st-century Portuguese and international masterpieces in a Kengo Kuma-designed space.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A world-class museum with beautiful gardens, a must-visit for art and architecture lovers in Lisbon."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially for Sunday afternoons.

🌳 Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful gardens; they offer a peaceful escape and are a highlight for many visitors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Modern and Contemporary Portuguese Art

Modern and Contemporary Portuguese Art

CAM Galleries

Discover masterpieces by renowned Portuguese artists like Paula Rego and Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, alongside international icons.

Instagram
Kengo Kuma's Architectural Design

Kengo Kuma's Architectural Design

CAM Entrance and Interior

Admire the striking wooden canopy and the thoughtfully redesigned spaces by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.

Instagram
Gulbenkian Gardens

Gulbenkian Gardens

Surrounding the Foundation

Wander through serene landscaped gardens, a perfect tranquil retreat offering a beautiful contrast to the art within.

Reddit
Open Storage Area

Open Storage Area

CAM Galleries

Get a unique behind-the-scenes look at the vast collection with the innovative open storage concept.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to CAM Gulbenkian

The Centro de Arte Moderna (CAM) at the Gulbenkian Foundation recently reopened after extensive renovations by architect Kengo Kuma. It houses a significant collection of Portuguese modern and contemporary art. Consider booking tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid queues. Instagram

Embrace the Art and Gardens

Beyond the impressive 20th and 21st-century art collections, the CAM is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Many visitors recommend exploring these green spaces as a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Free entry after 2 PM
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Best spot in Lisbon, save for later - MAAT Lisboa, Belém #sunsets #lisbon #portugal e #spots #views #recommendations #travel #cafe #restaurant #artmuseum
@chiarotto98
76.7K likes • 588.4K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially for Sunday afternoons. Instagram

🌳 Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful gardens; they offer a peaceful escape and are a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

📍Miradouro Nossa senhora do Monte, bairro da Graça - Lisboa #lisboa #hiddengems #lisbonviewpoint #lisbongems
@andrechaica
70K likes • 557K views
There’s a new reason to visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation — in addition to its world-class museum showcasing masterpieces from various periods and its wonderfully landscaped park, there’s a renovated modern art museum, the CAM (Centro de Arte Moderna), whose main entrance now faces a previously inaccessible garden and features a landmark wooden canopy by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. #art...
lisbonguide
41 likes • 1.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, both inside the museum and exploring the expansive gardens. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The modern design by Kengo Kuma is a photographer's dream; allow time to capture its unique features. Instagram

Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian - http://maps.app.goo.gl/Yvz2HzvA4NCMptzC9 "CAM - Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian is an art and culture center with the largest collection of modern and contemporary Portuguese art, which includes artists such as Paula Rego, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso and Helena Almeida, as well as international artists such as Sonia Delaunay, David Hockney and Bridget Riley. Th...
lisbon_id
153 likes • 7.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially for Sunday afternoons. Instagram

🌳 Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful gardens; they offer a peaceful escape and are a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, both inside the museum and exploring the expansive gardens. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The modern design by Kengo Kuma is a photographer's dream; allow time to capture its unique features. Instagram

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy a coffee or a light bite at one of the cafes within the Gulbenkian complex. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Gulbenkian Modern (CAM) for its significant collection of Portuguese modern and contemporary art and the stunning architectural design by Kengo Kuma. The surrounding gardens are frequently highlighted as a peaceful and beautiful escape. Some visitors note that Sunday afternoons can be crowded due to free entry.

"I always have this interest in being around artistic spaces. Went there with a friend of mine. Right next to sao sebastiao station. Get off the station and will probably take 3 minutes walk ato reach there. It's best if you buy the full tour tickets. I think it was 12 euros each. I enjoyed the creation of small island and the rock and use the headphones for the sound and some background information. Also they usually have different exhibitions going on. So keep an eye on which one is going on at what time. Also one side of the museum is closed for now hopefully they will open soon. Loved the British collection gallery. It was fun and unique. They have a cafe or more like a rest pastelaria. Foods I have seen usually around 8 to 10 euros. Also there's some other cafes and restaurants with outdoor sitting. Great for a coffee and cigarette. Don't miss the tv room inside the British gallery collection. It's something I found really amazing."

Muhammed Ali

"Part of the Gulbenkian Foundation. It is possible to visit the modern art collection itself separately or including with the main building too. I think it is worthy to visit. The temporary collections are also quite interesting."

Ekin

"Great exhibitions from beginning to end. And the facility is an art piece itself. Staff was exceptionally friendly. Go for the art then walk around the beautiful grounds."

Jeff Chandler

What People Like

Impressive art collection
Beautiful architecture
Serene gardens

What People Dislike

Crowded on Sundays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The CAM is part of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. You can reach it via metro (São Sebastião or Praça de Espanha stations), bus, or taxi/ride-sharing. TikTok mentions various transport options for Lisbon attractions.

Yes, there is parking available at the Gulbenkian Foundation. However, using public transport is often recommended due to potential traffic and parking availability. Reddit suggests enjoying the gardens as an escape from crowds, implying easy access.

While possible, it's a significant walk. Public transport is more efficient. The Foundation is located in the northern part of the city center. TikTok mentions uphill walks for viewpoints, suggesting Lisbon is hilly.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Adult tickets are typically around 12€. However, entry is free on Sundays after 2 PM, making it a popular time to visit. Instagram

It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a Sunday afternoon when it's free but can be crowded. Instagram

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Gulbenkian Foundation website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram mentions a reopening date, indicating potential schedule changes.

Access to the gardens is generally free, while tickets are required for the CAM exhibitions. Check the Gulbenkian website for any specific package deals. Reddit highlights the gardens as an escape from crowds.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the CAM, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage within the galleries. Reddit mentions photography in the gardens.

The architectural elements designed by Kengo Kuma, particularly the wooden canopy, are very photogenic. The open storage area also offers unique visual opportunities. Instagram

Absolutely! The gardens are beautifully landscaped and offer a serene backdrop for photography, as noted by visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Gulbenkian Foundation complex has cafes and dining options where you can enjoy refreshments. Reddit mentions Linha D'Agua cafe in Parque Eduardo VII, suggesting a cafe culture in Lisbon's green spaces.

Picnicking is generally not permitted within the museum galleries. For the gardens, it's best to check the specific rules on the Gulbenkian Foundation's website. Reddit implies the gardens are a place to relax.

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

CAM is renowned for housing the largest collection of modern and contemporary Portuguese art, featuring significant national and international artists. InstagramReddit

While the art collection is geared towards adults, the beautiful gardens offer space for children to explore. The open storage area might also spark curiosity. Instagram

To fully appreciate the art and the gardens, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to explore the entire Gulbenkian Foundation, you might need more time. Reddit suggests the grounds are beautiful.

The renovation, led by architect Kengo Kuma, introduced a new entrance facing a previously inaccessible garden and enhanced exhibition spaces, including an innovative open storage area. Instagram+1

Information on guided tours can be found on the official Gulbenkian Foundation website. These can offer deeper insights into the art and architecture. Reddit mentions culturally significant places, implying tours might be available.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the CAM's art collection is primarily for adults, the Gulbenkian Gardens offer a fantastic space for children to run around and explore. The open storage area might also capture their imagination with its organized display of artworks. Consider visiting on a Sunday afternoon when entry is free, making it a more budget-friendly outing. Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For serious art lovers, the CAM is a must-visit. Its extensive collection of modern and contemporary Portuguese art is unparalleled, offering deep insights into the nation's artistic heritage. Don't miss the chance to see works by Paula Rego and Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso. The open storage area provides a unique educational opportunity. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find the CAM and its gardens to be a perfect place for introspection and discovery. The serene atmosphere of the gardens offers a peaceful escape, while the art collection provides ample food for thought. Reddit suggests it as a non-touristy spot. Consider visiting during weekday mornings for a more tranquil experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art Collection at CAM

The Centro de Arte Moderna (CAM) at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation boasts an exceptional collection of Portuguese modern and contemporary art. It features works from the early 20th century to the present day, showcasing the evolution of artistic expression in Portugal. Key artists represented include Paula Rego, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, and Helena Almeida, whose influential pieces are central to understanding Portuguese art history. Instagram

Beyond Portuguese artists, CAM also exhibits works by prominent international figures such as Sonia Delaunay, David Hockney, and Bridget Riley. This global perspective enriches the visitor's understanding of how Portuguese art fits into broader international movements. The museum's commitment to showcasing both national treasures and global artistic dialogues makes it a vital cultural hub. Instagram

A unique aspect of the CAM is its open storage area, which provides visitors with an unprecedented glimpse into the vastness of the collection. This innovative approach demystifies the museum's holdings and allows for a more comprehensive appreciation of the art beyond the curated exhibitions. Instagram

Architectural Marvel by Kengo Kuma

The recent renovation of the Centro de Arte Moderna (CAM) was masterfully executed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. His design philosophy emphasizes harmony with nature and the use of natural materials, which is evident throughout the CAM. A striking feature is the new main entrance, marked by a distinctive wooden canopy that seamlessly integrates the building with its surroundings. Instagram

Kuma's intervention not only modernized the exhibition spaces but also opened up access to a previously underutilized garden, creating a more fluid and engaging visitor experience. The interior spaces are designed to be both functional for displaying art and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting Kuma's signature style of creating serene and light-filled environments. Instagram

Visitors often comment on the beautifully designed space and how the architecture enhances the appreciation of the art. The thoughtful integration of the building with the Gulbenkian gardens creates a holistic experience, inviting visitors to connect with both art and nature. Instagram

The Tranquil Gulbenkian Gardens

The Gulbenkian Gardens, surrounding the Foundation, are a significant attraction in themselves and offer a peaceful respite from the urban environment. These meticulously landscaped gardens are a haven for relaxation and contemplation, featuring diverse flora, tranquil water features, and winding paths. Reddit

Many visitors find the gardens to be an essential part of the Gulbenkian experience, providing a beautiful contrast to the modern art housed within the CAM. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment with a book, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty. Reddit+1

Photography enthusiasts often find inspiration in the gardens' serene atmosphere and picturesque scenery. The combination of art, architecture, and nature makes the entire Gulbenkian complex a multifaceted destination worth exploring. Reddit

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