Set beside the Douro in Porto’s former Alfândega Nova customs house, the Museum of Transport and Communication traces how people and messages have moved. Its displays include presidential cars, historic coaches and communication exhibits, with temporary shows on subjects such as human evolution and endangered species. The building’s industrial character and old rail tracks add context to the collections. Allow about an hour to explore, especially if you want to see the exhibitions on both levels.
A customs house turned museum
The museum occupies the Alfândega Nova, a former customs building beside the Douro River. The building dates to 1860, and the museum was established in 1992. Its large interior retains an industrial feel, with old rail tracks running across the floors. The setting links the collections to the movement of goods and people through Porto, while the exhibits follow transport and communication in Portugal.
The museum’s displays are arranged across two levels. Alongside the permanent collections, temporary exhibitions have covered subjects including human evolution and endangered species. Their topics change, so check what is on during your visit if a particular exhibition matters to your plans.
Cars, journeys and communication
The automobile displays include vehicles used by Portuguese presidents, presented in an exhibition called The Engine of the Republic, Cars of Presidents. Historic coaches and other older vehicles add a view of travel before modern cars. The exhibition The Automobile in Space and in Time follows the history of the automobile, giving the collection a broader transport focus.
Communication has its own place in the museum. The Communicate exhibition includes interactive games that involve the five senses, giving children a hands-on way to explore how people connect. An English-language booklet can help explain the displays; you can also take your time looking at the objects without reading every explanation.
Preguntas frecuentes
How much is admission to the museum?
The material provided lists admission at €3 per adult.
How long should I allow for a visit?
About an hour is suggested to see the displays, including exhibitions on both levels.
Where is the Museum of Transport and Communication?
It is in the former Alfândega Nova customs house at R. Nova da Alfândega 59, beside the Douro River in Porto.
Are there exhibits for children?
The Communicate exhibition has interactive games involving the five senses. The presidential car displays may also appeal to children interested in cars.
