Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa — Attraction in Vila Nova de Foz Côa

5 * for the architecture- the building is stupendous; it feels both ancient and futuristic at the same time. The cafe/ restaurant is well priced and a destination eating spot just for the views... However the museum was only 3* for me as it was big on pretty pictures but light on real information. It was useful to see the engravings in replica format and as individual drawings because they are difficult to make out without guidance... but I learned very little context other than this. Lights weren't working in some of the few display cases, and interactive displays weren't functioning. €7.50 We also paid for a guided tour of the art and this was absolutely 5*. Being in this hot valley with our enthusiastic English speaking guide showing us the easy-to-miss engravings was a profound experience sometimes lacking in other places we've visited. €16.50 The guided tour is highly recommended as you can't access the engravings without one. Considering we'd already paid for a tour, I think a reduced price museum ticket would be...

Booked a slot to take a look at the rock art and it was truly an experience. The guide was always ready to answer any questions and was truly passionate about explaining the rock art that we saw. There were only a few of us in the group so there was no rush at all and we took our time learning about the rock art. I spent some time at the museum too, and while it was quite sparse and I think I was there when it was undergoing some exhibition renovations, I did enjoy myself wandering around and listening to the audio guide. It's a small museum, so you'll probably be able to spend about 2 hours there. Do spend some time going up to the rooftop though - there's amazing...

The museum itself is amazing and we were really surprised there is such a place in Portugal but... only one of the personal at the info desk spoke English, the beautiful tours outside museum are difficult to arrive to (20minutes ride with a taxi driver who does not speak English and you have to pray for him to appear on time and bring you to the meeting point). The museum is so thrilling architecturally but there is not much use out of it. Lack of promotion and logistics of operation. Still can’t believe that we got to see Paleolithic rock art on UNESCO site and there were only 4 other...