Lisbon is a city bursting with sunshine and outdoor activities, but what happens when the weather takes a turn? If you’re caught in the rain, don’t worry! The Portuguese capital still has plenty to offer. From cozy museums and creative workshops to bustling markets and wine tastings, there are countless things to do on a rainy day in Lisbon.
Whether you’re looking for something cultural, hands-on, or just relaxing indoors, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of activities when it’s raining in Lisbon.
Rainy Day Activities
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Displays of art from Greek to Roman & Asian to European.
@MDH / @fcgulbenkian
If you’re stuck in Lisbon on a rainy day, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in São Sebastião is a perfect escape. For €10, you can explore over 5,000 years of history through one of the best private art collections in the world.
You’ll find everything from Egyptian and Greco-Roman art to pieces from the Islamic Orient, Armenia, and even French decorative arts. The museum itself is beautiful and well-designed, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the roughly thousand pieces on display.
Plus, it’s free after 2 pm on Sundays! Bonus points for the peaceful garden outside, which makes it a chill spot when the rain stops.
A Casa do Azulejo
Traditional tile painting in Portuguese fashion.
@a_casadoazulejo
When it’s pouring outside, A Casa do Azulejo in Benfica offers a super fun way to spend a rainy afternoon. For €40, you can dive into the world of traditional Portuguese tile painting in this 2-hour workshop.
Founded by ceramist Ana Dominguez, the atelier is all about sharing the art of Portuguese tiles and ceramics. You’ll learn how to paint your own tile, transfer designs, and work with colors, plus they’ll fire your tile in the kiln.
You can either come back to pick it up later or have it shipped to you (for an extra fee). Perfect for those who love hands-on, creative activities.
Time Out Market
A giant food market packed with flavors from the world.
@timeoutmarketlisboa
Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré is a great spot to check out during a rainy day in Lisbon. It’s a massive, remodeled warehouse packed with food options, from traditional Portuguese dishes to fusion concepts.
Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, a lobster roll, or just a drink, they’ve got you covered. The atmosphere is fun and lively, though finding a seat can be a challenge, especially during peak hours or when it’s raining (everyone’s trying to escape the weather!).
Prices are a bit higher than your average restaurant, but the quality makes it worth it. It’s a perfect place to treat yourself indoors when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Disco Wheel
A transformative ceramic shop and workshop studio.
@disco.wheel
Looking for a unique, creative indoor activity on a rainy day in Lisbon? Disco Wheel in Cais do Sodré offers a super cool, immersive ceramic workshop for €60.
This isn’t your typical pottery class—it’s more of a meditative, creative escape with curated music, dim lighting, and relaxing scents to set the mood.
The 90-minute class is guided by a professional teacher and assistant, and they keep it small, so only up to 8 people. It’s the perfect way to unwind and let your creativity flow.
You can even book the whole space for events if you’re planning something special. Highly recommend this spot for a chill and inspiring experience.
Wine Tasting in Graça
Amazing wine in a cute Lisbon neighborhood.
@livingingraca / @vino_vero
If you’re caught in the rain, why not enjoy a cozy Wine Tasting in Graça? This charming neighborhood is packed with wine bars offering some of the best Portuguese wines.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking to relax with a glass, places like Vino Vero and Graça do Vinho have amazing selections. You can taste wines from iconic regions like Douro, Alentejo, and Dão, with prices ranging from €10 to €50 depending on your choices.
Graça itself is a beautiful, lively neighborhood, so even if the rain stops, you’ll still love wandering around its quaint streets and viewpoints. Perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon in Lisbon.
The Lisbon Earthquake Experience
An immersive journey of Lisbon’s historic earthquake.
@lisbonquake
Looking for an exciting indoor activity on a rainy day? Check out The Lisbon Earthquake Experience in Belém. For €21, you’ll be transported back to the devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake in an immersive museum experience.
You’ll walk through the streets of the lost city, hear survivor stories, and learn about how the event shaped the city’s history and future. The museum is super interactive and well-organized, with staff speaking both Portuguese and English.
It’s more than just a history lesson—it’s a thrilling way to dive deep into one of Lisbon’s most pivotal moments. Perfect for history buffs or anyone looking for something different to do indoors.
The Lisbon Oceanarium
Ocean habitats for sharks, rays, penguins & tropical fish..
@oceanariodelisboa
If it’s pouring outside, hit up the Lisbon Oceanarium in Parque das Nações—it’s legit one of the best ways to spend a rainy day. The €25 price tag might seem steep if you go as a big family, but trust us, it’s totally worth it. The place is HUGE, and you can see everything from penguins and otters to sharks and manta rays.
The tanks are well-designed, so every time you walk around the central one, you get a different view. Plus, the animals are really well cared for, which was a big concern for us going in.
The staff, including marine biologists and vets, know what they’re doing. A nice vibe, and honestly just cool to watch all the creatures interact. Highly recommend if you’re into aquariums or just need a peaceful indoor spot to kill a few hours while it’s raining in Lisbon.
Important note: The Oceanarium adheres to international standards for animal welfare and care. It is a member of organizations like the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), which require strict adherence to guidelines regarding the care, well-being, and ethical treatment of animals.
Rainy days in Lisbon don’t have to dampen your spirits. From exploring stunning museums to indulging in a creative workshop or cozying up with a glass of local wine, the city has a variety of indoor experiences that will keep you entertained. Now that you know what to do in Lisbon when it’s raining, you can make the most of your time, no matter the weather. So grab your umbrella, head out, and embrace the unexpected charm of Lisbon’s rainy day offerings!
