What to see in Porto?
Discover the most beautiful places in Oporto
Porto, also called the “capital of the north” of Portugal is able to conquer from the first moment. Vibrant city, with an extensive history, unique tourist attractions, delicious cuisine and a lively nightlife that will conquer you, whether for a vacation or a weekend getaway. Discover the most emblematic places in Porto.
DISCOVER PORTO
1. EMBLEMATIC SPACES OF OPORTO
- Lello Library
- São Bento Train Station
- Clérigos Tower
- Bolhão Market
- Casa da Música
- Palácio da Bolsa
- Majestic Café
- Rua das Flores
- Carmo Church
- Cathedral
- Palacio de Cristal
1. Emblematic places
Descubre los lugares más emblemáticos de Oporto y déjate sorprender por su historia, su singularidad y su belleza.
Lello bookstore
Livraria Lello: A literary gem since 1906, this iconic Portuguese bookstore is more than an impressive neo-Gothic building. With an unmistakable facade, a magical staircase, and shelves filled with books from various eras and languages, Livraria Lello is an internationally recognized architectural and cultural landmark. This century-old bookstore in the heart of Porto continues to captivate visitors, offering a unique experience that combines the beauty of literature with its vibrant cultural programming. Visit and experience the magic of one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, celebrated by Time, CNN, Lonely Planet, and The Guardian.
See website here
São Bento rail station
Discover the elegance of São Bento Railway Station, an architectural gem built on the historic site of the Convent of S. Bento de Avé-Maria. Admire the atrium adorned with 20,000 tiles by Jorge Colaço, telling captivating tales of Portugal’s history. Wonder at the vibrant panel illustrating the evolution of transportation. This grand space seamlessly weaves together art, history, and the essence of Porto.
Torre dos Clérigos
Step into the enchanting world of the Clerigos Tower, a baroque masterpiece crafted by Nicolau Nasoni in the early 18th century. An iconic symbol of Porto, this architectural gem beckons with its breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River from its majestic summit—a climb of 240 steps that promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the rich history and artistry held within the tower.
Mercado Do Bolhão
El Mercado Bolhão reabre con una mezcla de tradición y modernidad después de una extensa restauración. Ubicado en el corazón de la ciudad, recibe a más de 70 variados vendedores que ofrecen productos frescos, artesanías y cafeterías. Este mercado icónico, una joya de Oporto, entrelaza historia e identidad, creando una experiencia incomparable tanto para visitantes como para locales.
Casa da Música
Iconic and bold, Casa da Música, designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, stands as a symbol of contemporary architecture since its 2005 inauguration. Explore its dynamic programming, spanning classical to avant-garde, with resident ensembles like the Symphony Orchestra and Remix Ensemble. Beyond its cultural significance, Casa da Música plays a key role in education, offering concerts, workshops, and family activities. Join a guided tour to uncover the architectural masterpiece and its cultural essence. A beacon of Porto’s cultural landscape, Casa da Música is a must-visit destination, blending art, architecture, and innovation seamlessly.
You can take a guided tour of approximately one hour. Visit the website to find the updated schedule information.
Palácio da Bolsa
Experience the epitome of grandeur in Porto’s historic heart – the Palácio da Bolsa. A unique architectural marvel, this National Monument stands as the jewel of the World Heritage. Immerse yourself in neoclassical elegance, masterfully crafted by renowned architects like Marques da Silva.
Once the hub for commerce, today, the Palácio da Bolsa welcomes you to a world of culture, hosting prestigious events, ceremonies, exhibitions, and concerts. With its rich history spanning nearly two centuries, this extraordinary venue showcases a blend of architectural styles, from neoclassical to Tuscany and English Neo-Palladian. A living testament to resilience, the Palácio da Bolsa captivates over 300,000 visitors annually, standing as a symbol of timeless elegance and cultural significance in Northern Portugal.
Majestic Café
Founded in 1921, this iconic establishment stands as one of Porto’s finest examples of Art Nouveau, displaying an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. Recognized as a Public Interest Property in 1983 and a cultural heritage of the city, its restoration in 1994 revived the enchanting Belle Époque era. Notably, J.K. Rowling frequented this historic venue while living in Porto, drawing inspiration for the first “Harry Potter” book. Majestic, a favorite of Kubitschek, former President of Brazil, beckons you to immerse yourself in its timeless allure.
Rua das Flores
Established in 1521 under the patronage of D. Manuel, Rua das Flores reflects the economic prosperity and urban development of Porto. Once a hub for the city’s aristocracy, it has preserved its original charm with a mix of 17th, 18th, and 19th-century architecture. This historic street offers a captivating journey through Porto’s heritage, making it a must-explore destination in the city’s historic center.
Carmo Church
An excellent example of Porto Rococo, this church, built in the late 18th century, stands out for its captivating architecture and intricate interior carvings. In 1912, the renowned artist Silvestre Silvestri adorned its lateral façade with beautifully crafted tiles, depicting figurative compositions dedicated to the worship of Our Lady, enhancing the church’s timeless allure.
Porto Cathedral
Step into the timeless beauty of Porto’s Cathedral, a masterpiece blending Romanesque roots with Gothic and Baroque elegance. Originally crafted in the twelfth/thirteenth century, this architectural marvel has evolved through the centuries, culminating in a splendid recreation of its medieval grandeur in the twentieth century.
Palacio de Cristal
Step into the timeless charm of Palácio de Cristal’s Romantic Gardens in Porto. Crafted by renowned 19th-century landscape architect Émille David, these meticulously preserved 8-hectare gardens boast iconic features like Jardim Émille David and Avenida das Tílias. Revel in breathtaking views of the Douro River and the city from strategically placed viewpoints. These gardens not only honor their botanical heritage but also host the Environmental Education Centre, offering a captivating blend of history, nature, and sophistication.
2. Family plans, museums & thematic centers
Sea Life Porto
Dive into a mesmerizing journey at Sea Life Porto, where you’ll embark on an immersive exploration of rivers and oceans. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring venture through the country’s first underwater tunnel, home to 500,000 liters of water and intriguing sharks awaiting your arrival. Uncover fascinating facts, enjoy interactive games, and delve into captivating documentaries about sea life.
Serralves Foundation
Nestled in the heart of Porto, Serralves is a cultural haven, encompassing an 18-hectare park designed by Jacques Greber, a contemporary art museum by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Álvaro Siza, and a unique art deco villa. Wander through formal gardens, woodlands, and a traditional farm, encountering over 200 plant species and permanent sculptures from the Serralves Collection.
With a mission to bring contemporary art, architecture, and societal issues to diverse audiences, Serralves Foundation has become a cultural icon. Celebrated internationally, it invites visitors to experience excellence and innovation in a lush, historic setting.
Santo Inácio Zoo
Discover Zoo Santo Inácio, the largest and greenest zoo in Northern Portugal, just 10 minutes from downtown Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia. Home to 600 animals from 200 species across five continents, its commitment is to wildlife conservation and animal well-being. The lush habitats recreate the animals’ natural environments, ensuring their comfort and authentic behaviors. The daily ‘Encounters with the Keeper’ offer an up-close look at natural behaviors.
WOW – World of Wine (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Indulge in the enchanting World of Wine (WOW), a cutting-edge cultural and tourist hub in Porto. Transformed from historic port wine cellars, WOW features seven interactive museums, twelve upscale dining options, a wine school, shops, exhibition space, and event venues. Nestled on the south bank of the Douro River, WOW boasts a stunning view of the Dom Luís I Bridge. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Portuguese wine, the cork industry, and explore facets of local culture, including textiles and fashion. WOW spans over 300,000 square meters, offering a captivating blend of culture, tradition, and art for all ages to enjoy.
Gaia cable car
The aerial lift gracefully connects the elevated and lower realms, seamlessly bridging the enchanting Gaia Quay below with the elevated Morro Garden. Positioned near the entrance to the Serra do Pilar Monastery, this journey unfolds a beautiful panorama, unveiling the splendors of Porto’s cityscape, the Douro River, its majestic bridges, and the storied Port Wine Cellars.
Upper Station – Jardim do Morro: Rua Rocha Leão 236 (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Lower Station – Cais de Gaia: Av. de Ramos Pinto 331 (Vila Nova de Gaia)
3. Other activities
Caves do Vinho Porto
Discover enchanting Wine Cellars that not only offer breathtaking panoramic views of historic Porto, the Douro River, and Vila Nova de Gaia but also provide immersive tours. Delight in certified Port Wine Cellars, a true emblem of Portuguese heritage, encapsulating a remarkable narrative of temperance and bravery. These cellars promise an enriching experience, unveiling the secrets of Port wine, the Douro region, and the charming cities of Oporto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
For reservations and schedule information you should contact directly the Port Wine Cellar that you want to visit.
Boat Trip
Embark on the Porto 6 Bridges Cruise from the iconic Ribeira Square. Explore the enchanting Douro River, home to the world’s largest vineyard region and birthplace of the superb Port wine. Cruise along the Douro, marveling at its famous bridges that lend their name to this extraordinary journey.
Porto city park
The City Park stands as the nation’s largest urban park, spanning 83 hectares that extend to the Atlantic Ocean—a rare feature globally. The park’s unique allure lies in its extensive use of stone, creating a rural ambiance with retaining walls, terraced landscapes, and rustic pavements. Recognized in 2000 by the Order of Engineers as one of Portugal’s ‘100 most notable works of the 20th century,’ this exceptional space seamlessly blends luxury with nature.
4.Beaches
Matosinhos beach
Matosinhos, a coastal haven with 16 Blue Flag and 9 Golden Quality beaches, embraces the Atlantic Ocean. The urban gem, Matosinhos Beach, unfolds a vast shoreline for a myriad of water and land activities. Indulge in beachside luxuries with rental options like sunbeds and umbrellas, and revel in beach volleyball and soccer. Surf and bodyboarding enthusiasts flock to its lively waters, making it a premier destination on the Costa Verde.
Leça da Palmeira´s tidal pool
Crafted by Álvaro Siza Vieira, Portugal’s acclaimed architect and Pritzker Prize winner, this iconic pool seamlessly melds into the rocky coastal landscape. Nestled between the rocks and the sea, this saltwater pool is a testament to the harmonious marriage of architecture and nature.
Porto is waiting for you! Discover a unique city, full of life, with a huge artistic and cultural heritage. Enjoy its nature, beaches, parks, museums, monuments and its famous Port wine. Taste the local gastronomy at Scarlett Brasserie & Wine Bar, next to the main monuments and areas of interest of the city, we are waiting for you!
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