porto

Hello, porto

Porto was once the last stop of adventurers on their way across the Atlantic to the New World. The cliché that Lisbon shows off and Porto just works is a well-worn metaphor that fails to do justice to the city's innumerate charms fully. History dwells around every corner, and more than ever, Porto is a place determined to hold on to its own distinct identity.

Best things to do in porto

Plenty of things to do and see

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Clérigos Tower

Torre Dos Clérigos is a 75-meters high granite Baroque tower built by the Italian artist Niccolo Nazzoni in the 18th century. Those who endure the steep 240-step journey to the top will be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view of the city. You should also visit the Igreja dos Clérigos (Church of the Clerics), a true Baroque masterpiece in the city.

Stock Exchange Palace

Built between 1842 and 1870 on the former site of a Franciscan convent, The Stock Exchange Palace, or Palácio da Bolsa, is an impressive building in Neoclassical style, which currently houses the headquarters of the Porto Commercial Association. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Palácio da Bolsa attracts around 200,000 visitors a year, making it the most visited monument in the north of Portugal. Take a guided tour to see up close its magnificently decorated rooms, especially the Arab Room, which features the exotic Moorish Revival architecture. This room also serves as a reception hall for heads of state and personalities visiting the city.

Port Wine Caves at Vila Nova De Gaia

Across the Douro River, you can visit the port wine caves of Vila Nova de Gaia. There are over fifty wine companies found in this area, with wine lodges offering organised tours and tasting sessions.

Livraria Lello

More than just a bookstore, Livraria Lello is a historical and architectural masterpiece in downtown Porto. Opened in 1906, Livraria Lello & Irmão as it is also known combines elements of Neo-Gothic, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau styles that comprise intricate woodwork, a large stained glass window bearing the bookshop monogram with the motto "Decus in labore" (dignity at work, in Latin), and a remarkable red spiral staircase, which starts as one set of stairs and splits into two that join in a circular design. The latter is a huge attraction here since it resembles the Grand Staircase from the Harry Potter films, and considering J.K. Rowling was once a Porto resident, there is a high chance this place might have inspired her. Livraria Lello became so popular with tourists that in July 2015 the store started charging a 5 Euro entrance fee and queues can take over an hour. You can purchase tickets on their website.