The University of Lisbon's national museum of natural history and science occupies the former Escola Politécnica on Rua da Escola Politécnica, next to the Lisbon Botanical Garden. Its collections, gathered over more than 250 years, span zoology, anthropology, geology, botany and the history of science. Highlights include the restored 19th-century Laboratorio Chimico and its amphitheatre, the Allosaurus fossils of Entre Dinossáurios, a hands-on historic physics exhibition and a rotating programme of temporary shows.
Visitor Information
- How much does Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência cost?
- Ticket prices for Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência change by season and by exhibition. Free entry on Sundays 10:00-13:00. Tickets cheaper when bought online; combined museum + Lisbon Botanical Garden ticket available.. See the museum's website for the current rates and any concessions.
- What are the opening hours of Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência?
- Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência is open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00 (last admission 16:30). Closed Mondays and public holidays. Free on Sundays 10:00-13:00.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.
- Where is Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência?
- Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência is located at Rua da Escola Politécnica 56/58, 1250-102 Lisboa, Portugal, in the Príncipe Real area of Lisbon. The nearest stations are Rato (Metro, Yellow Line), Tram 24 (stop in front of the museum).
- What can I see at Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência?
- Dinosaur fossils, a 19th-century chemistry lab and 1.3 million specimens in Lisbon's old Polytechnic School. Current highlights include 6th Natural History and Science Photography Exhibition, ANTROPO(CÉNICO) – In the Time of Humans, OPHELIA… What Are Things Made Of?.
- Do I need to book Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência in advance?
- Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends, school holidays, and special exhibitions. Tickets are normally on the museum's website, and a pre-booked timed slot helps you avoid queues at the entrance.
- When is the best time to visit Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência?
- Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.