Porto: The Complete Guide

Porto or Oporto is the second-largest city in Portugal, the capital of the Oporto District, and one of the Iberian Peninsula’s major urban areas. Oporto city proper, which is the entire municipality of Porto, is small compared to its metropolitan area, with an estimated population of just 231,800 people in a municipality with only 41.42 km2. Porto’s metropolitan area has around 1.7 million people (2021) in an area of 2,395 km2 (925 sq mi), making it the second-largest urban area in Portugal. It is recognized as a global city with a Gamma + rating from the Globalization and World Cities Research Network.

Located along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, Oporto is one of the oldest European centres, and its core was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, as “Historic Centre of Porto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar”. The historic area is also a National Monument of Portugal. The western part of its urban area extends to the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. Its settlement dates back many centuries, when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire. Its combined Celtic-Latin name, Portus Cale, has been referred to as the origin of the name Portugal, based on transliteration and oral evolution from Latin. In Portuguese, the name of the city includes a definite article: o Porto (“the port” or “the harbor”), which is where its English name “Oporto” comes from.

Port wine, one of Portugal’s most famous exports, is named after Porto, since the metropolitan area, and in particular the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, were responsible for the packaging, transport, and export of fortified wine. In 2014 and 2017, Oporto was elected The Best European Destination by the Best European Destinations Agency. Oporto is on the Portuguese Way path of the Camino de Santiago.

TIP: If you are visiting Porto for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated city tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in about 3 hours. If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our Self Guided Walking Tour of Porto (with Maps!).

History of Porto

Porto’s history dates back over 2,000 years when it was a small Celtic settlement. Its strategic position at the mouth of the Douro River has always been a significant advantage:

Roman Era:

• The Romans enhanced its stature by building a port, which helped Porto develop into a crucial commercial hub known as Portus Cale, which is said to be the origin of the name “Portugal.”

Medieval Times:

• During the Middle Ages, Porto gained prominence due to its port, exporting wines and other goods. The city was frequently besieged and taken by various factions but always retained its importance due to its economic vitality.

Industrial Revolution and Modern Times:

• The 18th and 19th centuries were transformative for Porto as it became the center of the port wine trade. Its riverside warehouses in Vila Nova de Gaia are famous for storing and aging the renowned Port wine.

Contemporary Porto:

• Today, Porto is known for its blend of historical and modern attractions. It has a vibrant cultural scene, renowned culinary offerings, and extensive urban renewal projects that respect its rich heritage while embracing innovation.

Porto is a city where history and tradition blend seamlessly with vibrant contemporary culture, making it a fascinating destination for any traveler.

Visiting Porto for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Porto on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Porto not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Porto and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Praça da Liberdade (Liberty Square)

Praça da Liberdade is, by many, considered the heart of the city of Porto, in Portugal. It is located downtown, in the parish of Santo Ildefonso . Previously, the current Praça da Liberdade was called Casal or Lugar de Paio de Novais and Sítio or Fonte da Arca (during the 15th century ); Lugar or […]

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Location: Praça da Liberdade, Porto, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.10km

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Visiting Praça da Liberdade (Liberty Square)

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São Bento Railway Station

The São Bento Railway Station (Estação Ferroviária de Porto-São Bento), is one of Portugal’s most striking railway stations. São Bento Railway Station, also known as estação ferroviária de São Bento, is a 20th-century railway terminal located in the civil parish of Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau e Vitória in the municipality of Porto, […]

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Location: São Bento Station, Praça de Almeida Garrett, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 0.20km

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Visiting São Bento Railway Station

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Livraria Lello & Irmão

Found close to the Torre dos Clérigos, the Livraria Lello & Irmão is considered the most beautiful library in Europe and one of the most beautiful in the world. The Livraria Lello & Irmão, also known as the Lello Bookstore, is a renowned bookstore located in the civil parish of Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, […]

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Location: Livraria Lello, Rua das Carmelitas, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10am – 7pm.| Price: Entrance fee: € 5 (£ 4.40) (if you buy anything you will be refunded the ticket price). | Website | Distance: 0.30km

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Visiting Livraria Lello & Irmão

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Carmo and Carmelitas churches

The Carmo Church and Carmelitas Church are two notable religious sites located in Porto, Portugal. The Carmo Church, officially known as the Church of Our Lady of Carmo, is a stunning example of Portuguese Baroque architecture. It was built in the 18th century and features intricate details and ornate decorations both on its exterior and […]

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Location: Igreja do Carmo, Rua do Carmo, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 0.40km

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Visiting Carmo and Carmelitas churches

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Clérigos Church and Clérigos Tower

The Clérigos Church is a Baroque-style church located in the city of Porto, Portugal. Its most iconic feature is the 75-meter-tall bell tower, known as the Torre dos Clérigos, which can be seen from various locations in the city. The church was built by Italian architect and painter Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century for […]

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Location: Torre dos Clérigos, Rua de São Filipe de Nery, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Every day: 9 am – 7 pm. | Price: Church: Free entrance. Tower and Museum of the Brotherhood: General entrance € 5 (£ 4.40) | Torre dos Clerigos Entrance Ticket | Distance: 0.40km

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Visiting Clérigos Church and Clérigos Tower

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Capela das Almas

Capela das Almas (meaning Soul’s Chapel), also called Saint Catherine Chapel, is a building from the 18th century that is known by its tile covered façade. These panels, added in 1929, represent episodes from the lives of S. Francis of Assisi and Saint Catherine. To create this magnificent piece of work 16.000 tiles were needed. The […]

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Location: Capela das Almas, Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m – 6:00 p.m – Saturday and Sunday 7:30 a.m – 12:30 p.m / 6:00 p.m – 7:30 p.m | Price: Free | Distance: 0.50km

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Visiting Capela das Almas

Explore Porto yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Porto Cathedral

Built in the highest part of the city, the Sé Cathedral is the most important religious building in Porto. It is located in the Batalha district, next to the walls that once protected the city. The exterior of the building has the appearance of a fortress with battlements. The Porto Cathedral, also known as Sé […]

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Location: Porto Cathedral, Terreiro da Sé, Porto, Portugal | Hours: April – October: 9 am – 6:30 pm. November – March: 9 am – 5:30 pm | Price: Cathedral: Free entrance. Cloisters €3 | Distance: 0.60km

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Visiting Porto Cathedral

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Muralhas de D. Fernando (Porto City Walls)

The Muralhas de D. Fernando, or Fernandine Walls, are medieval fortifications located in the civil parish of Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau e Vitória, in the municipality of Porto, Portuguese Porto. In the mid-14th century, during the Middle Ages, the construction of the walls of Porto (Muralhas do Porto) began as the city […]

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Location: Muralha Fernandina, Escadas do Caminho Novo, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Monday – Friday: 08h30 - 17h30, Weekends: By Appointment Only | Distance: 0.70km

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Visiting Muralhas de D. Fernando (Porto City Walls)

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Casa do Infante in Porto

First established in 1325, the Casa do Infante (Prince’s House) was given this name after Prince Henry the Navigator, leader of great expeditions of discovery in West Africa, was born here in 1394. The Casa do Infante, also known as the Alfândega Velha, is a historical house located in the civil parish of Cedofeita, Santo […]

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Location: Casa do Infante, Rua da Alfândega, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 9:30am – 1pm and 2pm - 5:30pm.| Price: Adults: € 2.20 (£ 1.90) (including the temporary exhibitions). Porto Card: free entrance. Saturdays and Sundays: free entrance. | Distance: 0.80km

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Visiting Casa do Infante in Porto

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Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square)

The Ribeira Square or Praça da Ribeira is a historical square in Porto, Portugal. It is included in the historical centre of the city, designated World Heritage by UNESCO. In the mid-18th century, the city of Porto underwent urban improvements to increase the flow of goods and people between the Ribeira neighborhood and other areas […]

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Location: Praça da Ribeira, Porto, Portugal | Hours: 24 hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.80km

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Visiting Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square)

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Funicular dos Guindais

The Funicular dos Guindais, also known as The Guindais Funicular, is an elegant and unique way of getting from one part of the city to the other. The Guindais Funicular is a railway in Porto, Portugal that uses a cable and inclined plane system to transport passengers up and down a steep cliff. The original […]

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Location: Funicular dos Guindais, Rua da Ribeira Negra, Porto, Portugal | Price: € 3.5 | Distance: 0.80km

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Visiting Funicular dos Guindais

Palácio da Bolsa in Porto

The Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) can be found in the very centre of the city is currently the headquarters of Porto’s Commercial Association. The Stock Exchange Palace, also known as Palácio da Bolsa, is a historical building in Porto, Portugal. It was built in the 19th century by the city’s Commercial Association in […]

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Location: Palácio da Bolsa, Rua de Ferreira Borges, Porto, Portugal | Hours: April – October: 9 am – 6:30 pm. November – March: 9 am – 12:30 pm and 2 pm – 5:30 pm. | Price: Adults: € 10 (£ 8.90) Student Card and Seniors: € 6.50 (£ 5.80) Children under 12: free | Distance: 0.80km

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Visiting Palácio da Bolsa in Porto

Church of São Francisco (Porto)

The Franciscans began work on the Igreja de São Francisco in 1245, but it was later reformed due to a fire which destroyed the old cloister and part of the church. The Church of Saint Francis, also known as Igreja de São Francisco, is a prominent Gothic monument in Porto, Portugal, known for its outstanding […]

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Location: Church of São Francisco, Rua do Infante Dom Henrique, Porto, Portugal | Hours: November – February: 9am – 5:30pm. March – October: 9am – 7pm. July – September: 9am – 8pm. | Price: Adults: € 7.50 (£ 6.60) | Distance: 0.80km

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Visiting Church of São Francisco (Porto)

Dom Luís I Bridge

The Dom Luís I Bridge or Ponte de Dom Luís I, or Luís I Bridge, is a double-deck metal arch bridge that spans the River Douro between the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia in Portugal. At its construction, its 172 metres (564 ft) span was the longest of its type in the […]

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Visiting Dom Luís I Bridge

Soares dos Reis National Museum

At more than two hundred years old, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis is the oldest public museum in Portugal and the most famous in Porto. The Soares dos Reis National Museum, named after the renowned Portuguese sculptor António Soares dos Reis, is located in the northern city of Porto. Founded in 1833 by King […]

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Location: Soares dos Reis National Museum, Rua de Dom Manuel II, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm. Tuesday: 2pm – 6pm. Mondays: closed 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May and 25 December: closed. | Price: Adults: € 5 (£ 4.40) Porto Card, seniors over 65 years old, youth card and youth between 12 and 25 years old: 50% discount. Youth Card: € 2.50 (£ 2.20). Children under 12 years old: Free admission. Sundays and public holidays until 2 pm: free admission | Distance: 0.90km

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Visiting Soares dos Reis National Museum

Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações

The Transport and Communications Museum is situated on the right bank of the Douro River, adjacent to the Porto Historic Centre, which is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The museum is housed in the historical building of Alfândega Nova do Porto. Alfândega Nova do Porto is one of the most impressive buildings […]

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Location: Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações, Rua Nova da Alfândega, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10 am - 1 pm (last entry 1 hour before closing) / 2 pm - 6 pm (last entry 1 hour before closing) Saturday/ Sunday/ Public Holidays - 3 pm - 7 pm (last entry 1 hour before closing)Closed: Mondays, January 1st, Easter Sunday, June 24th, December 25th | Website | Distance: 1.00km

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Visiting Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações

Sandeman Wine Cellar

The Sandeman Port Cellar in Porto is a renowned and historic establishment that offers an immersive experience into the world of port wine. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto, the Sandeman Cellar is steeped in tradition and known for its exceptional range of port wines. Sandeman, founded in […]

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Location: Sandeman, Largo Miguel Bombarda, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Hours: Offered daily, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm in multiple languages. | Price: Tours and port tastings start at €19 and range from 3 to 5 port wines. | Website | Distance: 1.10km

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Visiting Sandeman Wine Cellar

Serra do Pilar Monastery

The Serra do Pilar Monastery, located in Porto, is an architectural gem and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated on a hill overlooking the Douro River and the city of Porto, it offers breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The monastery was built in the 16th century as a part of the defensive system […]

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Location: Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, Largo Aviz, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Distance: 1.10km

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Visiting Serra do Pilar Monastery

Jardim do Morro

Miradouro do Jardim do Morro, also known as the Garden of Morro Lookout, is a popular viewpoint located in Porto, Portugal. Situated on the south bank of the Douro River, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s historic center, including the iconic Ribeira district and the picturesque riverside landscape. The Miradouro do Jardim do […]

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Location: R. Rocha Leão 10 70, 4430-999 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.10km

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Visiting Jardim do Morro

Calém Wine Cellars

Calém Wine Cellars in Porto are a renowned destination for wine enthusiasts seeking to delve into the world of port wine. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto, Calém offers visitors a captivating experience blending tradition, history, and exceptional wines. Established in 1859, Calém has a long-standing heritage in […]

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Location: Caves Cálem, Avenida de Diogo Leite, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Price: Between €7.5 and €40 | Website | Distance: 1.10km

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Visiting Calém Wine Cellars

Espaço Porto Cruz

Espaço Porto Cruz goes beyond the realm of traditional port wine tasting, offering a complete and immersive experience dedicated to celebrating the rich culture of Port wine. It seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, creating a unique space that serves as a hub for information, exhibitions, and leisure, while also fostering new and exciting encounters with […]

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Location: Espaço Porto Cruz, Largo Miguel Bombarda, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Website | Distance: 1.10km

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Visiting Espaço Porto Cruz

Ponte do Infante

Ponte do Infante, also known as the Infante Bridge, is a notable bridge in Porto, Portugal. It is named after Infante Dom Henrique, a prominent historical figure in Portugal known as Henry the Navigator. This modern bridge spans the Douro River and connects the city of Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. Designed by engineer […]

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Location: Ponte do Infante, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 1.10km

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Visiting Ponte do Infante

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

The Crystal Palace Gardens is a delightful park in Porto, designed at the end of the 19th century. The Palácio de Cristal Gardens are a picturesque green space located in the parish of Massarelos, in the city of Porto, Portugal. The gardens offer breathtaking views of the Douro River and the sea. The gardens were […]

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Location: Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, Rua de Dom Manuel II, Porto, Portugal | Hours: 8am-9pm Apr-Sep, to 7pm Oct-Mar | Distance: 1.20km

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Visiting Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

Churchill's Wine Cellar

Churchill’s Wine Cellar is a revered establishment that holds a prominent place in the world of Port wine. Founded in 1981 by Johnny Graham, a member of the renowned Graham’s Port wine family, Churchill’s has established itself as a boutique winery that produces exceptional Ports and Douro wines. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, across […]

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Location: Churchill's Lodge, Rua da Fonte Nova, Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 6 pm | Website | Distance: 1.40km

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Visiting Churchill's Wine Cellar

Graham’s Port Cellar

Graham’s Port Lodge in Porto is a renowned destination for wine lovers seeking to explore the fascinating world of port wine. Situated in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto, Graham’s Lodge offers a captivating experience that combines history, tradition, and exceptional wines. Founded in 1820, Graham’s has a long-standing heritage […]

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Location: Graham's Port Lodge, Rua do Agro, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Price: Starting from 23 | Website | Distance: 1.50km

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Visiting Graham’s Port Cellar

Ferreira Wine Cellars

Caves Ferreira, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, is an esteemed and historic establishment renowned for its production of exceptional port wines. With a legacy dating back to 1751, Caves Ferreira is the only big house of Port Wine that has remained in Portuguese hands since its foundation. Founded in 1751, the brand’s history […]

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Location: A.A. Ferreira, Rua Carvalhosa, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Hours: From 10.15 - 16.30 | Price: From €19.00 | Website | Distance: 1.50km

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Visiting Ferreira Wine Cellars

Maria Pia Bridge

The Maria Pia Bridge, known as Ponte Maria Pia in Portuguese, holds a significant place in engineering history as one of the pioneering wrought-iron railway bridges constructed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel. Located in Porto, Portugal, it spans the Douro River and served as a crucial transportation link during its operational years. The bridge was […]

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Location: Ponte Dona Maria Pia, Oliveira do Douro, Portugal | Distance: 1.50km

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Visiting Maria Pia Bridge

Igreja Matriz do Bonfim

The Igreja Matriz do Bonfim is a church located in the city of Porto, Portugal, with a history dating back to the existence of a chapel on its current site in 1786. The current church was built between 1874 and 1894, as the population of the parish annexed by the city had grown and the […]

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Location: Igreja Matriz do Bonfim, Rua do Monte do Bonfim, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 1.50km

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Visiting Igreja Matriz do Bonfim

Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, Porto

Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Oporto (Porto), is one of the most esteemed and historic port wine houses in the region. With a rich heritage dating back to 1692, Taylor’s has established itself as a producer of exceptional ports, renowned for their quality and […]

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Location: Taylor's Port, Rua do Choupelo, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal | Hours: Cellars (mon-sun): 11:00 – 18:00 Tasting Room and Shop (mon-sun): 11:00 - 19:00 Restaurant: 12.30-15.00 // 19.00-22.00 | Website | Distance: 1.60km

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Visiting Taylor’s Port Wine Cellar, Porto

São João Bridge

The São João Bridge, also known as the São João Railway Bridge, is a prominent bridge in Porto, Portugal. It was built as a replacement for the Maria Pia Bridge to accommodate the increasing demands of modern railway transportation. Construction of the São João Bridge began in 1988, and it was completed in 1991. The […]

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Location: Ponte de São João, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 1.60km

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Visiting São João Bridge

Museu do Carro Eléctrico

The Museu do Carro Eléctrico is a museum dedicated to the history of electric transportation in Porto, Portugal. It is operated by the Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto and houses a collection of trams, trailers, and other vehicles. The museum opened in May 1992 and is located in the former Massarelos thermoelectric power station. […]

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Location: Tram Museum, Alameda de Basílio Teles, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Monday: 2 pm – 6 pm. Tuesday – Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm. | Price: Adults: € 4 (£ 3.60) Children from 4 to 12, students and seniors: € 2.50 (£ 2.20) Children up to 4 years old: free | Distance: 1.80km

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Visiting Museu do Carro Eléctrico

Casa da Música

Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, the Casa da Música is one of Porto’s most emblematic buildings and was built as part of the Porto 2001: European Capital of Culture project. The Casa da Música is a concert hall located in Porto, Portugal. It was designed by the renowned architect Rem Koolhaas and opened in 2005. […]

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Location: Casa da Música, Avenida da Boavista, Porto, Portugal | Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10am - 7 pm. Sundays: 10 am - 6 pm. There are free English guided tours every day at 11am and 4pm | Price: Guided tour: € 10 (£ 8.80) Children less than 12 years old: Free entrance | Distance: 2.00km

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Visiting Casa da Música

Arrábida Bridge

The Arrábida Bridge, locally known as Ponte da Arrábida, is a remarkable bridge spanning the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. Designed by engineer Edgar Cardoso, the same mastermind behind the São João Bridge, it stands as an iconic landmark in the city’s skyline. Construction of the Arrábida Bridge began in 1957 and was completed in […]

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Location: Ponte da Arrábida, Via de Cintura Interna, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 2.40km

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Visiting Arrábida Bridge

Freixo Bridge

The Freixo Bridge, also known as Ponte do Freixo in Portuguese, is an impressive bridge spanning the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. It is an essential part of the city’s transportation infrastructure, providing a crucial connection for both vehicles and pedestrians. The construction of the Freixo Bridge began in 1999 and was completed in 2003. […]

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Location: Freixo Bridge, Circular Regional Interna do Porto, Porto, Portugal | Distance: 2.60km

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Visiting Freixo Bridge

Forte de São Francisco Xavier

The São Francisco Xavier Fort, also known as the Cheese Castle, is located in the parish of Nevogilde in the municipality and district of Porto, Portugal. It sits in a commanding position over the Atlantic Ocean and is close to the mouth of the Douro River. The fort was built in the mid-17th century during […]

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Location: Forte de São Francisco Xavier, Praça de Gonçalves Zarco, Porto, Portugal | Hours: 1-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: €0.50 | Distance: 7.00km

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Visiting Forte de São Francisco Xavier