If you’re heading to Porto and have even a hint of curiosity about how humans have celebrated, socialized, and symbolized through drinking, this museum might just become one of your favorite stops. The Art of Drinking WOW Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into over 8,000 years of drinking customs, with an impressive collection of more than 2,000 vessels and glasses. It’s a curated experience that combines history, art, and culture in a way that’s both enlightening and surprisingly fun.
What really drew us in are two things: first, the scope of the collection — it’s said to be one of the finest worldwide — and second, the stories behind each piece that reveal so much about different civilizations, eras, and social statuses. On the flip side, a potential drawback might be that it’s quite a niche experience — if you’re not into history or artifacts, it might not hold your attention for 1.5 hours. But for those with an interest in cultural history or curious about the significance of drinking customs, this museum is a real winner. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy uncovering stories behind objects and appreciate a thoughtful, well-curated experience.
Key Points
- Extensive Collection: Over 2,000 drinking vessels spanning 8,000 years.
- Historical Insights: Learn about rituals, customs, and societal significance behind each artifact.
- Quality Experience: Knowledgeable guides and multi-language audioguide options.
- Value for Money: At just $19, it offers a deep dive into a unique aspect of cultural history.
- Accessible & Convenient: Located within the WOW complex, easily reachable from many hotels.
- Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and those interested in drinking traditions.
What to Expect at the Art of Drinking WOW Museum
This isn’t your typical museum experience. Instead of large, polished artworks, you’re viewing a vast private collection of drinking vessels that tell stories as much as they display beauty. Beginning with artifacts dating back as far as 6,000 BC, the collection offers a timeline of humanity’s relationship with alcohol, celebration, and social bonding.
The Collection: Over 2,000 Vessels and Glasses
As you stroll through the exhibits, you’ll notice the remarkable variety — from simple clay cups to elaborately decorated goblets once owned by emperors, popes, and aristocrats. The collection showcases vessels from many civilizations, including early civilisations, the Roman Empire, and even the Industrial Revolution. The sheer number of pieces means you’ll see many rare and symbolic items that highlight the cultural significance of drinking across different eras.
Stories Behind the Artifacts
Each vessel isn’t just an object; it’s a story. The museum provides insights into the customs, ceremonies, and social rituals associated with each piece. For example, some glasses may have been used in important court ceremonies or religious rites, while others served as symbols of wealth or status. The audioguide, available in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French, helps unpack these stories and contextualizes the artifacts within history.
The Guides and Audio Guide
Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the narration. As one reviewer from the UK mentions, the collection is “tremendous,” and the museum itself “not too far” from hotels, making it a convenient cultural stop. The audioguide enhances this experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace and revisit points of interest. The explanation of customs and traditions really adds depth, transforming a collection of objects into stories of human civilization.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Setting and Atmosphere
The museum is part of The Bridge Collection, which is within the larger WOW complex. The entire complex is visually stunning — think modern, beautifully designed spaces that complement the exhibits. The museum isn’t overly crowded, which is a relief for those who prefer a quieter, more contemplative environment. The setting helps keep the focus on the artifacts without feeling rushed or crowded.
Duration and Group Size
Most visitors spend around 2 hours exploring, which aligns nicely with the 1.5-hour tour duration. The size of the group is manageable, making it easier to absorb the information and ask questions if guided. The experience is wheelchair accessible, so it’s inclusive for all visitors.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $19 per person, this experience offers quite a lot for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Considering the size of the collection and the insights provided, it’s very good value. You’re not just looking at pretty objects; you’re gaining an understanding of how drinking customs shaped social interactions and cultural identities over thousands of years.
Some reviews, like the one from Portugal, emphasize how “the museum was not so busy,” making it a relaxed experience, especially if you like to take your time. The fact that it has a high rating of 5 out of 5 based on five reviews shows that most visitors find it well worth the ticket price.
Practical Details
- Location: Within The Bridge Collection, part of the WOW complex.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM until 07:00 PM, with the last entrance at closing time.
- Duration: Around 1.5 hours, flexible with your ticket.
- Language options: Audioguide available in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
- Includes: Entrance to the collection, audioguide, insights into the history and customs associated with each vessel.
- Not included: Gratuities, transportation, or pick-up/drop-off.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who loves history, art, or cultural traditions, this museum will likely captivate you. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy learning stories behind objects and exploring how everyday items reflect social values. It’s also great if you prefer quiet, contemplative museums over crowded, noisy ones.
Travellers interested in Portugal’s past will appreciate the diverse collection and the way it showcases different civilizations. It’s also suitable for those who want a unique, meaningful experience that adds depth to their understanding of human history — especially around social customs and rituals.
However, if you’re looking for fast-paced entertainment or outdoor adventures, this experience probably isn’t for you. The focus is on reflection and appreciation of artifacts, making it more suited for a relaxed afternoon.
Porto: Art of Drinking WOW Museum – Drink Through History
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the museum suitable for children?
While there’s no specific mention of family-friendliness, the exhibits are mainly artifacts and historical objects, which can be interesting for older children or teenagers who enjoy history. However, very young kids might find it less engaging.
How long does the tour last?
The tour itself takes about 1.5 hours, but you can spend additional time exploring at your own pace within the opening hours.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you can use your ticket during the selected date and time, and booking is recommended to secure your spot.
Are there guided tours, or is it self-guided?
The experience includes an audioguide available in multiple languages, providing detailed insights as you walk through. Guides are available for added knowledge, but the audioguide is a great self-guided option.
Can I cancel the ticket if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.
What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants access to the collection and includes the audioguide, which enriches your visit with stories and context about each vessel.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the collection.
How is the museum connected to the larger WOW complex?
It’s part of The Bridge Collection within the WOW, making it easy to combine with other experiences like wine tastings or visiting the vineyards.
Is the experience family-friendly?
It’s not specifically tailored for children, but older kids interested in history and artifacts will find it engaging. It’s a calm, educational environment suitable for curious minds.
If you’re a lover of history, art, or cultural stories, the Porto Art of Drinking WOW Museum is a stand-out choice. It’s a curated collection that offers a tangible connection to how humans across millennia have celebrated, socialized, and expressed themselves through drinking vessels. The price point is reasonable, especially given the depth of insight you’ll gain, and the museum’s quiet, well-organized setting makes for an enjoyable visit without feeling rushed.
This experience is best suited for those who enjoy contemplative, educational outings, or who want a meaningful cultural addition to their Porto trip. It’s not a fast or flashy stop, but it’s one that offers real value if you’re curious about the stories behind everyday objects and how they reflect our shared history.
For anyone interested in a different perspective on human culture, this museum offers plenty of both. It’s a memorable way to deepen your appreciation of human creativity and social customs through the ages.
Hope this helps you decide whether this unique museum fits into your Porto plans. Happy travels!
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