Porto is one of the most popular cities in Portugal and, despite being the second largest, it is easy to visit in a weekend. This place has a special magic that conquers those who visit it, thanks to its history, culture, architecture and, of course, its famous wine. To make your stay easier, we have prepared this list of essential places in Porto.
Ribeira
Ribeira is an old and very emblematic neighborhood, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its beauty, its narrow cobblestone streets and its historic architecture.
It is home to a large number of charming restaurants and cafes and offers stunning views of the Douro River and the wineries of Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank.
Luís I Bridge
The D. Luís I Bridge is, without a doubt, one of the great architectural jewels of Porto and a remarkable symbol of the city. It was inaugurated in 1886 and designed by Téophile Seyrig, a collaborator of Gustave Eiffel, hence the clear reminiscences of the Eiffel Tower in its iron structure.
The purpose of the construction of this bridge was to connect Miragaia to Vila Nova de Gaia, given the commercial growth that the city experienced during the nineteenth century and which motivated the improvement of communications between this neighborhood of Porto and the neighboring city.
It has two floors, a length of 385 meters and a height of 44 meters. The upper part is intended for the metro, while the lower part is for vehicles. Both areas have pedestrian crossings. If you cross at the top, you will see a unique panoramic view over the Ribeira and the Douro River.
Livraria Lello
For literature lovers, Livraria Lello is a must-visit. Located in a nineteenth-century neo-Gothic building, whose interior looks like something out of a fairy tale, with a spectacular carved wooden staircase and colorful windows.
It has a wide variety of books in different languages, so it’s perfect wherever you come from.
This bookstore has been the subject of myths and urban legends. It is said that J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto for two years, was inspired by this place to create certain elements of the Harry Potter saga, such as Diagon Alley.
To be able to visit the bookstore, you must buy a ticket there or through the link below. The basic ticket costs €8 and the amount is deducted from the price of a book if you buy it.
Bolhão Market
This mythical market is located in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of the city and has its origin in 1839, when the square was built. In 1914, the architect António Correia da Silva carried out the construction project of the Bolhão Market, with an innovative and modern style for the time.
It is considered an Asset of Heritage Interest and a Monument of Public Interest. Its metal structure is divided into two floors, in the first you will find stalls of all kinds, from flowers, coffee, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, sweets and wines to souvenirs.
The second floor has a part dedicated to exhibitions, fairs and culinary congresses and another for new restaurants. We recommend that you visit it, even if you don’t intend to buy anything, for the experience of immersing yourself in this place and its atmosphere.
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Church of Santo Ildefonso
The Church of Santo Ildefonso dates back to the 18th century and is decorated with traditional Portuguese white and blue tiles placed in 1931 that tell scenes from the life of Santo Ildefonso and the gospel.
The temple is in Baroque and Rococo style and not only stands out for its exterior, but its interior houses beautiful works of sacred art. It is an ideal place to appreciate the connection between religious devotion and Porto’s rich artistic tradition.
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Crystal Palace Gardens
If you need some peace and quiet during your trip and want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city, the gardens of the Crystal Palace should be your next stop. They are located in the upper part of Porto and offer panoramic views of the Douro River and the entire city.
Although the palace that gave these gardens its name was demolished in 1951, the park remains one of the most beautiful places in the area. You can walk along its trails, observe the sculptures that decorate the paths and even see the ducks, peacocks or chickens that walk around the place at your leisure.
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Sé or Cathedral of Porto
Another essential point is “Sé” or the Cathedral of Porto. This building, in Gothic-Romanesque style, began its construction in the twelfth century and witnessed some of the most important moments in the history of the city. In Cathedral Square there is a column that was used to execute criminals.
The Cathedral, in addition to standing out for its architecture, also stands out for the impressive panoramic views it offers from its terrace. From this elevated point you will enjoy a 360 degree view over the rooftops of Porto, the Douro River and the wineries.
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The Miragaia Neighborhood
Less known than Ribeira, but equally charming, is the Miragaia neighborhood, one of the most picturesque and authentic places in Porto. It is an old seaside area with cobblestone streets, colorful houses and a quiet air, ideal if you want to explore a more local and less touristy part.
Miragaia is perfect for getting lost aimlessly and enjoying the narrow alleys and its views of the river. Among its attractions is the World of Discoveries, an interactive museum inspired by the voyages of Portuguese navigators.
You can also visit the Alfândega do Porto, a cultural space that hosts exhibitions, or the Palácio das Sereias, an aristocratic building built on the site of an old Jewish quarter and said to have been cursed.
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Clérigos Church and Tower
If there is a structure that defines the skyline of Porto, it is the Clérigos Tower, another landmark that you cannot miss. The tower, which is part of the architectural ensemble of the Clérigos Church, is one of the best examples of Baroque in the city. It was built between 1732 and 1750 by architect Nicolau Nasoni and offers the best panoramic view of the city from the top of its 240 steps.
The Clérigos Church is also worth a visit. Its baroque facade and interior are a testament to the architectural splendor of the time and, together with the tower, create one of the most unforgettable images of the city.
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A Capela das Almas
In the heart of the city is the Capela das Almas, one of the most beautiful examples of the tradition of Portuguese tiles. This church, located on Rua de Santa Catarina, dazzles thanks to its facade completely covered with 16,000 white and blue tiles with scenes from the lives of Santa Catarina and São Francisco de Assis, the saints venerated in the temple.
Santa Catarina Street
Leaving the Capela das Almas, we recommend that you stroll along Rua de Santa Catarina, a pedestrian shopping street in Porto that goes from Praça do Marquês de Pombal to Café Majestic, a very famous modernist-style building.
During your tour you will see different shops, restaurants and the well-known Fábrica de Natas, which has typical sweets similar to those in Belém.
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The Port Wine Cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia
It would be unthinkable to talk about Porto without mentioning one of its star products: Port wine. The Port Wine Cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, located on the other side of the D. Luís I Bridge, are the ideal place to learn about the history and process of making this wine.
We encourage a visit to one of these wineries to learn about their different varietals and enjoy a tasting. Some of the best known are Sandeman, Graham’s or Cockburn’s.
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São Bento Station
Finally, no tour of Porto would be complete without a visit to São Bento Station, considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Its great attraction lies in the more than 20,000 tiles that decorate its atrium, which narrate key episodes in the history of Portugal. It is a true museum of Portuguese art that can be enjoyed without having to pay an entrance fee.
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Porto is a city that combines tradition and modernity in a masterful way. At the Hotel Carrís Porto Ribeira, you can rest in an elegant and privileged environment thanks to its location in the heart of the city of Porto.
Click on this link and book your room now for your next trip.
