Listen to classical and popular music concerts or dine out in style at one of Portugal’s most modern performance spaces.
Take a seat at one of Casa da Música’s two stunning auditoriums and enjoy a musical act from across the country or around the world. Relax with a cocktail at one of the city’s hottest night spots and indulge in the fantastic cuisine at the top-floor restaurant.
As you walk down the Avenida da Boavista, you’ll see the Casa da Música’s bright white exterior and bold, asymmetric shape. The structure was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and built to mark Porto’s selection as a European Capital of Culture in 2001 (although the building was only completed in 2005). It is a striking building, so allow time to admire the unusual architectural features.
The best way to experience the Casa da Música is to see a live performance in one of the two auditoriums. Classical music features predominantly at the larger of the two auditoriums, the 1,238-seat Sala Suggia. Head to the smaller Sala 2 to enjoy bands and solo performers from the local area and farther afield.
If your visit doesn’t coincide with a concert, you can still explore the interior and the beautiful auditoriums. Note the features such as embossed pine plywood walls that make them such great performance halls. To find out more about the space, take one of the guided tours. These run throughout the afternoon and last for about an hour. English-speaking guides are available, but phone ahead to be sure one will be available.
Make your way to the Artists Bar to enjoy a self-service menu of simple snack food. Come here before a performance or meet with a friend for lunch and enjoy the views from the top floor back across the square.
The Casa da Música is in the Boavista part of central Porto. Several bus and metro routes stop nearby. There is also a large car park with a fee for parking.
