As you explore Lisbon, you’ll no doubt be wowed by the beautiful tiles everywhere. They come in so many shapes, sizes, and styles. From bold coloured wall coverings to artistic murals, and the classic blue and white façades covering the insides of many churches and palaces. Once inspired, many people soon want to buy, or even paint their own version of these tiles!
Painting your own tiles is a fantastic experience, not only will you learn about the process of how these tiles were traditionally made. But you’ll get your very own, and very unique souvenir to take home with you!
This guide will help you choose from the best options for tile painting in Lisbon. Whether you’re looking for family-oriented tile painting experiences, or immersive historical experiences, we’ll cover them all!
What Are Azulejos and Where do they Come from?
First up, what exactly are Azulejos, and where do they come from? These tiles are an architectural legacy left over from the Moorish rulers of Portugal. During that period they were known as al-zuladj which is where they get their modern name from. Al-zuladj means small polished stone in Arabic.
Despite their Moorish origins and style, it was King Manual I who imported them to Portugal during the 15th century. Its commonly reported that Manual I fell in love with the tiles during visits to Seville and imported the style to his palaces and residences in Portugal. During that time period, the tiles were almost exclusively an art piece decorating the insides of grand houses, palaces and churches. It was not until the 18th century that they started to appear on the outside of buildings and façades.
Throughout the following centuries, azulejos would change in style from their early geometric patterns commonly found in the Moorish world, to more colourful scenes, and of course to the characteristic blue and white tile found all over Portugal. Many of the available classes will have stencils to copy certain styles, or if you prefer you can go freehand and create your own!
The Best Tile Painting Classes in Lisbon
There’s a wide range of classes and tile painting experiences across Lisbon so let us help you narrow down your choices!
- Cerâmica S.Vicente in the Alfama area is the wonderful studio Cerâmica S. Vicente. They offer two types of workshops one that runs for two hours, and a longer version for 3 and a half hours (both come with refreshments!)
- Loja dos Descobrimentos is a small tile shop located in Alfama. They sell a mix of both classical and more modern tiles for you to purchase. Additionally, they offer tile painting workshops. You’ll need to book directly with them by email!
- Casa do Azulejo is a ceramic studio in the heart of Benfica. They offer both tile painting workshops and ceramic workshops, with a selection of short classes (2 hour experiences) and longer courses of weekly classes.
- VisitMylisbon while researching tiles, you’ll have no doubt come across the incredible National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo). VisitMyLisbon offer guided tours of the National Tile Museum, followed by a two hour workshop where you can paint two tiles. Prices are €40 per person and can be booked directly with VisitMyLisbon.
The Best Day Trips with Tile Painting
Azulejo tiles are not exclusive to Lisbon and there’s so many fantastic places to really explore them. This private tour will take you on one of the best day trips from Lisbon, where you’ll not only be able to paint tiles, but also experience wine tasting in one of southern Lisbon’s hidden gems. After that, you’ll be able to visit a historic church that’s decorated with over 10,000 azulejos, and be back in Lisbon in time for dinner.
Private Tiles Painting Workshop, Wine Tasting & Sesimbra Tour
South of Lisbon’s Wonders – Arrábida , Wine & Tile Private Tour
The Best Full Day Immersive Tile Experience
For the truly dedicated of visitors, that want to fully immerse themselves in Portugal’s tile heritage then we need to recommend this fantastic tour. A full 8 hour day exploring some of Lisbon’s best examples of tiles, then visiting a factory, then you’ll get to paint your own before ending the day at the National Tile Museum. A place we absolutely love.
You can book the Tiles and Tales: Full-Day Tile Workshop and Tour here!
Top Tip: One thing to consider before booking a tile painting workshop is the baking time of your tiles. This can be up to 3 days from some studios, so if you book a class on your final day visiting the city you’ll have to arrange postage of your finished tiles! Check with the studio before booking!
Where not to buy tiles in Lisbon?
While browsing flea markets, like the famous Feira da Ladra in Lisbon’s Sao Vicente you might be tempted to buy antique or vintage tiles. It’s really important you don’t. Many of these tiles are stolen from historical buildings from around Portugal. Despite the claims that they may have been recycled or reclaimed, you really should not support the untraceable and unaccountable business of selling historic azulejo tiles at markets.
Where to buy tiles in Lisbon?
With that out the way, where can you buy azulejo tiles safely?
d’Orey Azulejos on Rua do Alecrim in central Lisbon specialises in antique and reclamation tiles. If you’re looking for the real thing, this is one of the places to get antique tiles.
In nearby Principe Real is Solar Antiques, another specialised antique shop regarded as one of the best places in Lisbon for antique ceramics. If you are looking to purchase real tiles, if you purchase from reputable dealers there’s much lower risk of supporting illegal destruction and theft.
Cortiço & Netos specialise in out of production or reclaimed tiles from the 1960s onwards. You can purchase tiles individually from around €8 a piece, and you can even shop and purchase them online.
Alternatively, and one that is much simpler ethically, is to purchase new tiles. Either modern reproductions of vintage tiles, or modern twists on the art style. For the latter, Surrealejos is well worth a visit.You’ll find coasters, to individual tiles, and even grand wall pieces, all in a unique surrealist style.
Several of the ateliers with tile painting classes, also sell their own tiles. Loja dos Descobrimentos is well known for its accurate reproductions of antique tiles, as well as modern style tiles, so even if you don’t book a class. Check them out!
