Audio Guide of the Convent of Our Lady of the Star

The convent and its basilica are open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and closed on Mondays and major public holidays. To visit, enter through the Basilica of the Star in the Lapa district of Lisbon; arriving by public transport, such as Tram 28, is recommended. More details are available on the official website: Basilica of the Star.

Admission to the basilica is free, but visiting the interior of the convent and its exhibitions costs approximately 5 euros per adult, with discounts for students and children. You can buy tickets on site or book online through the official website to avoid queues.

It is recommended to allow at least 1 hour to explore the basilica and the convent at a relaxed pace, including time to admire the tiles and architecture. If you choose a guided tour, it may last up to 1.5 hours, which is ideal for appreciating the details without rushing.

Built in the 18th century by order of Queen Maria I as a vow of gratitude for the birth of her son, the convent is an icon of Portuguese Baroque, with impressive tiles and a Neoclassical basilica. It represents Marian devotion and Portuguese royal history, and today serves as both a place of worship and a cultural museum.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal thanks to the mild weather and smaller crowds, avoiding the summer heat. Early mornings, around 10:00 a.m., are best for enjoying the natural light that highlights the tiles and for avoiding busy periods.

The main basilica has access ramps and elevators for wheelchairs, but some upper areas of the convent have stairs and are not fully accessible. It is advisable to contact +351 213 960 915 in advance for personalized assistance or adapted tours.

Nearby, you can visit the Star Garden, a beautiful adjoining park ideal for a walk, or the National Museum of Ancient Art, just a 10-minute walk away. Do not miss the Lapa district with its historic palaces; for more ideas, check the Lisbon tourist map at Visit Lisbon.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled floors, and consider joining a guided tour in Portuguese or English to learn more about its history. Avoid the busy midday hours and combine your visit with a coffee in the nearby garden; remember to silence your phone out of respect for the sacred space.