Porto Cathedral
Standing tall in the very heart of Porto, the Porto Cathedral, also known as Sé do Porto, is a must-visit spot. Built in the 12th century, it combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, truly embodying Porto’s historical diversity. Don’t miss the cloister, where the walls are adorned with beautiful azulejo tiles. Also, the views of the city from the cathedral terrace are simply breathtaking.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.diocese-porto.pt
Address: Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal
São Bento Railway Station
It’s not every day that you see a railway station on a list of attractions, but São Bento is not your average station. Inside, you’ll find a splendid array of 20,000 blue and white azulejo tiles, depicting important events in Portugal’s history. This iconic landmark is a working station, making it a unique blend of practicality and artistry.
Entrance: Free
Website: www.cp.pt
Address: Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto, Portugal
Palácio da Bolsa
The Palácio da Bolsa, or the Stock Exchange Palace, is a neoclassical marvel right in the center of Porto. Inside, the Arabian Room, a splendidly decorated hall in exotic Moorish Revival style, stands out as the jewel of the palace. Additionally, the Grand Staircase, made entirely of granite and wood, offers a grandiose welcoming to all visitors.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.palaciodabolsa.pt
Address: R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal
Museu Romântico da Quinta da Macieirinha
The Museu Romântico offers a journey back to the 19th century, within the charming Quinta da Macieirinha. The museum replicates the life of the Portuguese nobility, with rooms decorated as they would have been during the Romantic period. It’s also where Charles Albert of Sardinia sought refuge after abdicating the throne.
Entrance: Admission
Website: museudacidadeporto.pt
Address: R. de Entre-Quintas 220, 4050-239 Porto, Portugal
Clérigos Tower
Providing an unparalleled view of the city, Clérigos Tower is one of Porto’s most iconic structures. A 225-step climb might sound daunting, but the panoramic vista at the top makes it totally worth the effort. The tower is part of the larger Clerigos Church, which is another piece of striking baroque architecture in the city.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.torredosclerigos.pt
Address: R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto, Portugal
Livraria Lello
Declared as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, Livraria Lello is a paradise for book lovers. Its intricate Neo-Gothic interior, the dazzling stained glass skylight, and the unique wooden staircase create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Fun fact: it is rumoured to have inspired parts of the Harry Potter series!
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.livrarialello.pt
Address: R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal
Ribeira Square
Ribeira Square, located in Porto’s historic district, is the perfect place to sit, relax, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The multicolored houses that flank the square, the lively cafés and restaurants, and the fantastic views of the Douro River and D. Luis I Bridge all contribute to the area’s charm.
Entrance: Free
Address: Porto, Portugal
Casa da Música
For those in love with music and innovative architecture, Casa da Música is a must-see. This iconic concert hall, designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, is a piece of art in itself. Besides attending an array of concerts, you can explore the interior on a guided tour, which is as harmonious and enchanting as the musical performances it hosts.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.casadamusica.com
Address: Av. da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071 Porto, Portugal
Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art
Among the best places to visit in Porto is the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s Portugal’s most visited museum, housing an extensive collection of Portuguese and international contemporary art. Set within the stunning grounds of the Serralves Park, the museum’s sleek, modern design is a piece of art in itself, offering a perfect backdrop for the masterpieces it holds.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.serralves.pt
Address: R. Dom João de Castro 210, 4150-417 Porto, Portugal
Foz do Douro
Where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find the charming district of Foz do Douro. With its beautiful promenade, fine sand beaches, and array of restaurants and bars, Foz offers a refreshing seaside escape within the city. Don’t miss a walk at sunset, when the landscape is bathed in an enchanting golden light.
Entrance: Free
Address: Foz do Douro
Church of São Francisco
The Church of São Francisco is an enchanting site, renowned for its ornate Baroque interior. You might be surprised by the contrast between the relatively modest exterior and the extravagant gilded woodwork inside. Also, do not miss the catacombs beneath the church, which house an ossuary with thousands of human bones.
Entrance: Admission
Website: ordemsaofranciscoporto.pt
Address: Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 4050-297 Porto, Portugal
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
For a serene escape within the city, head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. These romantic gardens offer lovely walkways, ornate fountains, and stunning panoramic views of the Douro River. Here, you can also visit the small library or the lovely Rosa Mota Pavilion, which often hosts events and exhibitions.
Entrance: Free
Website: ambiente.cm-porto.pt
Address: R. de Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto, Portugal
Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis
Art lovers should definitely visit the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis, Portugal’s first public art museum. It showcases an extensive collection of Portuguese art from the 16th to the 20th centuries, including the work of its namesake, sculptor António Soares dos Reis. The beautiful neoclassical building and its stunning courtyard are the perfect setting for this impressive collection.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.museusoaresdosreis.gov.pt
Address: R. de Dom Manuel II 44, 4050-522 Porto, Portugal
Igreja do Carmo
The Igreja do Carmo is an architectural gem that you can’t miss. Its exterior is adorned with magnificent blue and white azulejo tiles that depict religious scenes. Inside, you’ll find an equally impressive Rococo interior. Located near the University of Porto, it’s a charming place to stop by while exploring the city.
Entrance: Free
Address: R. do Carmo, 4050-164 Porto, Portugal
Capela das Almas
As you walk down Rua de Santa Catarina, you can’t miss Capela das Almas, or Chapel of Souls. Its exterior is entirely covered in stunning azulejo tiles that depict scenes from the lives of saints. As charming as it is on the outside, the chapel’s interior is equally beautiful, with a peaceful, solemn ambiance that invites contemplation.
Entrance: Admission
Website: www.diocese-porto.pt
Address: R. de Santa Catarina 428, 4000-124 Porto, Portugal
Miradouro da Vitória
The Miradouro da Vitória viewpoint is a lesser-known gem in Porto. Providing an expansive view of the city, it’s a fantastic spot to snap pictures of the iconic orange rooftops, the Douro River, and the picturesque wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. Remember to pack your camera when you head here!
Entrance: Free
Address: R. de São Bento da Vitória 11, 4050-265 Porto, Portugal
Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar
The Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, perched on the hill of Vila Nova de Gaia, is an impressive architectural and religious landmark. The 16th-century former monastery, known for its unique circular cloister, offers unrivaled panoramic views of Porto. It’s also a great place to catch the sunset over the city.
Entrance: Admission
Address: Largo Aviz, 4430-329 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Museu do Vinho do Porto
A trip to Porto would be incomplete without a visit to the Museu do Vinho do Porto, dedicated to the city’s most famous export. The museum takes you on a journey through the history and production process of Port wine. With a tasting room where you can sample different varieties, it’s the perfect stop for wine connoisseurs and novices alike.
Entrance: Admission
Website: museudacidadeporto.pt
Address: Rua da Reboleira 37, 4050-492 Porto, Portugal