A Guide to Lisbon's Cinemas
From cult venues to modern multiplexes — where to watch films in the capital
Dazona Editorial
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5 min read
Watching a film in Lisbon can be a very different experience depending on where you go. There are large multiplexes with IMAX screens and Dolby Atmos sound, independent venues with velvet seats and gloriously musty smells, and open-air cinemas that appear in summer under the stars.
The major chains
NOS Cinemas
NOS is Portugal's largest cinema chain and has several venues in Lisbon. The NOS Colombo, in the Colombo Shopping Centre, is one of the biggest and most complete: 10 screens, an IMAX screen and a varied programme.
For technology enthusiasts, NOS Lusomundo in El Corte Inglés has 4DX screens — seats that move and wind and water effects synchronised with the on-screen action.
UCI Cinemas
UCI has a strong presence in Lisbon, with venues at Vasco da Gama and NorteShopping. Known for sound and image quality, it's a reliable choice for blockbusters.
Cinema City
With venues at Alegro Alfragide and Dolce Vita Tejo, Cinema City focuses on major releases and shows original-language screenings with subtitles at afternoon sessions.
The independent venues
Cinema São Jorge
São Jorge is an icon. Opened in 1950, this cinema on Avenida da Liberdade has three screens and is the nerve centre of Indie Lisboa, the independent film festival held every April.
The main auditorium, with nearly 900 seats, preserves all the grandeur of cinema's golden age. It's worth visiting just to see the foyer.
Cinemateca Portuguesa
The Cinemateca is not a commercial cinema — it's a living archive of world cinema. With a programme of thematic cycles and retrospectives, it's where Lisbon's cinephiles gather.
Tickets are affordable and the programme is available online. Recommended for those who want to see films that don't reach commercial screens.
Open-air cinema
In summer, Lisbon transforms into a festival of open-air cinema. Jardim do Torel, the Estufa Fria and various hotel rooftops host evening screenings under the stars.
Keep an eye on the Lisbon City Council programme and summer festival listings.
Check the cinemas section on Dazona for up-to-date listings from Lisbon's venues.