There are several theaters in Lisbon, each one more beautiful than the last . Stage for plays, various performances such as dance, musicals or operas, as well as shows for all tastes and moods, Lisbon’s theaters are true art centers where it’s a pleasure to be.
Important as cultural spaces in every city, these theaters enrich society by offering entertainment and are one of the most incredible platforms for artists to express their talents, whether through the artistic expressions already mentioned or through rehearsal venues, workshops or other events related to the performing arts.
They also help to boost cultural tourism, as well as the economy and creative industry of the places where they are located.
Although it is often thought that the Portuguese don’t fill theaters like they do soccer stadiums, the truth is that more and more people are going to the theater, especially to one of these theaters, which are the most beautiful and imposing in Lisbon.
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D. Maria II National Theatre
The D. Maria II National Theatre, one of Portugal’s most prominent cultural icons, opened its doors on April 13, 1846, during the celebrations for Queen Maria II’s 27th birthday. Since then, it has been one of the leading exponents of culture, the arts and creativity in Lisbon and throughout the country.
It is located in Rossio and has a very varied program of plays, from classics to more contemporary productions.
Address: Praça D. Pedro IV (Rossio)
São Carlos National Theatre
The Teatro Nacional de São Carlos is an important cultural institution and the main venue for opera in Portugal, and its historical and architectural importance makes it one of the country’s cultural treasures.
Inaugurated in 1793, it is the only national theater dedicated exclusively to the production and presentation of opera, choral and symphonic music. With its impressive beauty, both inside and out, the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos is considered one of the most beautiful examples of the neoclassical style in Portugal, with 17th century and Italian influences.
Located near Chiado, in addition to operas, it also hosts concerts and other musical events.
Address: Rua Serpa Pinto 9 (Chiado)
Politeama Theater
Known for being the venue where director Filipe La Féria presents his great musicals, the Politeama may well be one of the best-known theaters in Portugal.
Located on Avenida da Liberdade, it presents itself as a historic theater, inaugurated in 1913, where various types of plays are presented in addition to musicals, such as comedies and the well-known revues.
Address: Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 109 (Baixa)
São Luiz Municipal Theatre
The history of the Teatro Municipal São Luiz begins in 1892, when it was established as a theater by the city for the city, open to all and committed to enhancing Portuguese culture and the diverse cultures of the world.
Teatro São Luiz’s program offers a wide range of proposals, including theater, dance, music and cinema, challenging artists to produce and present shows.
Address: Rua António Maria Cardoso 38
Trindade Theatre
Inaugurated on November 30, 1867, the Trindade Theatre is a historical and cultural gem in the center of Lisbon, featuring architecture that combines Pombaline and neoclassical elements.
It used to host not only theatrical performances, but also concerts, conferences, operettas and dances in its adjacent hall. Today, it is a very important venue for the performing arts , with a diverse program of theater, music and dance.
Address: Rua Nova da Trindade 9 (Chiado/Bairro Alto)
Tivoli BBVA Theater
Located on Avenida da Liberdade, the Tivoli BBVA is a historic theater with a vast schedule of musical and comedy shows.
Inaugurated in 1924 with pomp and circumstance, this theater in Lisbon began as a space dedicated to the seventh art, but today it presents various other genres of artistic creations, becoming one of Lisbon’s major references for more intimate concerts, as well as for shows with some of the greatest comedians.
Address: Avenida da Liberdade 182-188 (Avenida da Liberdade)
Luís de Camões Theatre
One of the most beautiful features of the Luís de Camões Theatre is its hand-painted ceiling, with representations that symbolically refer to muses of the performing arts.
LU.CA, as it is better known, is a cultural space in Lisbon dedicated to offering an exclusive program for children and young people, with an emphasis on the performing arts and artistic projects in various areas. It is the first cultural space in Portugal entirely dedicated to this audience.
Address: Calçada da Ajuda 76-80
These are just a few examples of the most beautiful theaters in Lisbon. But the truth is that in Lisbon you’ll find many other venues dedicated to the performing arts.
Map with theaters in Lisbon, and a list for your cell phone!
Salas de espetáculos em Lisboa: das mais incríveis às mais bonitas