From historical palaces and a former convent, to a zoo and an oceanarium, the Portuguese capital offers a range of unusual backdrops for event planners looking for something a bit quirky…

Convento do Beato
With its excellent location and remarkable facilities, this former convent provides a unique backdrop for organising a wide range of events: congresses, seminars, exhibitions, concerts and other social occasions. Only five minutes from the airport, it is located in a historic part of Lisbon, rich in tradition and culture, close to the Tagus River. The history of Convento do Beato dates back to the 15th century, when Queen D. Isabel was given authorisation to construct a hospice in the chapel of S. Bento for the congregation of “blue monks”. There are a number of spaces available, including the former library for up to 450, upper foyer for up to 400 and terrace for up to 250. The largest space, the Cloister, can accommodate up to 1,200 seated and 2,500 standing.

Lisbon Zoo
Founded in in 1884 and moved to its current location in 1905, Lisbon Zoo plays an important role in the conservation of endangered species, housing more than 2,000 animals spread over 300 species. As an events venue, it offers a wide range of team building options for up to 600. There are a variety of spaces including the Auditorium for groups of up to 96, The Avenida – a 1,400sqm space ideal for product launches, dinners and outdoor entertainment, the band stand, Philharmonic Square and outdoor theatre.

Lisbon Oceanarium
Also located by the River Tagus, the Oceanário de Lisboa provides a quirky venue for corporate meetings and events. The Sophia de Mello Breyner Room can cater for 200 people for a seated lunch or dinner, and 250 reception or theatre-style. The smaller VIP room can seat 50 people theatre-style, 30 for lunch or dinner and 40 for a reception. There’s also a fully-equipped auditorium with 117 seats. Guided tours of the hugely popular attraction can also be organised for corporate groups using the meeting facilities.

Grémio Literário
This small palace, located in the historical district of Chiado, has been occupied since 1974 by the Grémio Literário, which was founded in 1846 to promote arts and culture in Lisbon. The stunning building offers six indoor spaces and a large garden ideal for planners wanting to impress delegates with a unique backdrop for dinner or a reception. The veranda (main picture above), overlooking the private garden has a wide view over the Tagus, features an “Art Nouveau” décor, while the Boiserie, next to the Louis XV dining room, is entirely wood panelled, with an elegant Victorian style fireplace, two stained-glass windows by Jacques Gruber, and a unique oil painting by George Clairin.

Check out the micebook Lisbon Destination Guide for more inspiration

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