Travel abroad without leaving the country at Museu do Oriente

What is it? The Portuguese were the first Europeans to have an enduring presence in Asia and the Museum of the Orient, opened in 2008, tells the story.

Why go? The core exhibition includes unique maps and charts, priceless 17th- and 18th-century Chinese and Japanese painted screens and other Namban (Western-influenced) art, and an important collection of artefacts from Timor. The separate 'Shadows of Asia' display has shadow puppets from a swathe of countries from Turkey to south-east Asia, drawn from the vast Kwok On collection. The museum runs courses on everything from languages to cuisine and ikebana, as well as hosting concerts of Asian, fusion and world music and dance.

Don’t miss: The top-floor restaurant has fine views.

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