ARCOlisboa is the Portuguese edition of the renowned ARCO art fair brand, originally founded in Madrid. The Lisbon fair has developed its own distinct identity, combining strong international participation with a deep focus on the local and regional art ecosystem. The fair places equal importance on established contemporary artists and emerging practices, making it a dynamic meeting point for discovery and dialogue.
Unlike larger commercial fairs, ARCOlisboa maintains a balanced scale, allowing visitors to engage closely with galleries, artists, and curatorial narratives without the overwhelming pace typical of mega-fairs. This approach makes the experience more thoughtful, accessible, and intellectually engaging.
The fair features a carefully selected list of international and Portuguese galleries, presenting painting, sculpture, installation, photography, video art, and interdisciplinary practices. Special curated sections often highlight emerging galleries, young artists, and thematic projects that reflect current global conversations in contemporary art.
ARCOlisboa also serves as a cultural catalyst for the city, activating museums, private collections, and independent spaces throughout Lisbon during the fair week. Talks, panels, institutional collaborations, and off-site exhibitions enrich the program and extend the fair’s influence beyond its main venue.
Event Overview
Portugal’s most influential international contemporary art fair.
ARCOlisboa 2026 continues Lisbon’s rise as a major European art destination, uniting established galleries, emerging voices, collectors, curators, and institutions in a carefully curated contemporary art program.
1 May 2026 - 31 May 2026
Avenida da Índia, Lisbon, Portugal
Mission:
The mission of ARCOlisboa is to strengthen Portugal’s position on the global contemporary art map while fostering meaningful connections between artists, galleries, institutions, and collectors. The fair aims to promote artistic quality, curatorial depth, and sustainable cultural exchange.
Organizer:
ARCO / IFEMA Madrid In collaboration with Portuguese cultural institutions and partners
ARCOlisboa offers a unique balance between international visibility and local authenticity. Visitors can discover new artistic positions, engage with emerging markets, and experience contemporary art in a city known for its creative energy and cultural openness.
The fair attracts collectors, museum professionals, curators, and art advisors seeking both established names and fresh discoveries. Its relaxed yet professional atmosphere encourages conversation, reflection, and long-term relationships within the art world.
General admission costs
General admission: paid entry
With student/senior tickets at
Students & seniors: discounted tickets available
VIP Preview: access for collectors, professionals, and invited guests. Tickets available online and on-site during the fair
Cordoaria Nacional is located along Lisbon’s waterfront and is easily accessible by tram, bus, taxi, or rideshare services. The venue is well connected to the city center and major cultural districts, making it convenient for international visitors.
Tickets are limited and sell out fast.
Get instant access to the official ARCOlisboa 2026 registration page and be the first to know about exclusive events, VIP passes, and travel perks.
Early access. Limited availability. Global art at your fingertips.
Launched as an extension of the iconic ARCO Madrid, ARCOlisboa quickly established itself as a key contemporary art event in Southern Europe. Over the years, it has evolved into a respected platform known for curatorial rigor, international participation, and its strong connection to the Portuguese art scene.
Plan your visit early to secure tickets and accommodation, as Lisbon becomes particularly busy during the fair week. Allocate time not only for the fair itself but also for museum visits and off-site events across the city. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as the venue is spacious and encourages extended exploration.
Don’t miss your chance to attend one of the world’s leading art fairs. Get direct access to the official ticketing page, exclusive updates, and important visitor information.
Early access. Limited availability. Global art at your fingertips.
From the ArtExpoWorld perspective, ARCOlisboa 2026 stands out as one of the most intellectually balanced art fairs in Europe. It does not attempt to compete with large-scale commercial giants through volume or spectacle. Instead, it offers something far more valuable: clarity, curatorial focus, and genuine dialogue between galleries, artists, and collectors.
Lisbon’s cultural rhythm plays a crucial role here. The city allows contemporary art to breathe — without excessive pressure, without market noise. ARCOlisboa feels like a fair where discoveries are still possible, where conversations matter, and where emerging galleries can be seen on equal footing with established names.
For collectors, this is a fair worth close attention. For artists and galleries, it is a platform that rewards quality and vision rather than hype. And for visitors, ARCOlisboa 2026 is an opportunity to experience contemporary art in a thoughtful, human-scale environment — something increasingly rare in today’s global art calendar.
ArtExpoWorld considers ARCOlisboa 2026 a must-visit event for anyone interested in the future of contemporary art in Europe.