Clérigos Church and Clérigos Tower, Porto

Church in Porto

CC BY-SA 2.0 / jfcfar

Rising above the rooftops of Porto's historic centre, Clérigos Church and its soaring bell tower feel like a stone exclamation mark in the skyline. This Baroque ensemble, designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century, was built for the Clergy Brotherhood and quickly became one of the top attractions in Porto thanks to its 75-metre tower, richly decorated façade, and dramatic setting above the city. From almost anywhere in central Porto you can spot the Torre dos Clérigos, guiding you toward its narrow streets and lively cafés.

Step inside and you discover an elegant elliptical nave with a polychromed marble altarpiece, ornate side chapels, and, tucked behind the church, the monumental bell tower that you can climb via 240 steps for sweeping views over the Douro, the cathedral, and the terracotta rooftops. The church, tower, and small museum together make a great place to visit on a walking tour of Porto, especially if you time your ascent for golden hour when the city glows and the bells ring out above you.

History and Significance of the Clérigos Church and Tower
Things to See and Do in the Clérigos Church and Tower
How to Get to the Clérigos Church and Tower
Practical Tips on Visiting the Clérigos Church and Tower
Where to Stay close to the Clérigos Church and Tower
Is the Clérigos Church and Tower Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Clérigos Church and Tower
Nearby Attractions to the Clérigos Church and Tower

History and Significance of the Clérigos Church and Tower

Construction of Clérigos Church began in 1732, when Porto was flourishing as a mercantile city and the Clergy Brotherhood wanted a grand new church to express its status. Nicolau Nasoni, an Italian architect and painter who left a deep mark on the north of Portugal, designed a Baroque façade packed with scrolls, niches, and sculpted details, and an unusual elliptical interior that draws the eye naturally toward the high altar. The main body of the church was completed by 1750, reflecting the exuberant Baroque style that was then transforming Porto's skyline.

The tower came slightly later, with work on the bell tower and monumental stairway continuing into the 1750s and finishing in 1763. Rising over 75 metres, with its stacked sections, carved stone, and crowning cross, the Torre dos Clérigos was one of the tallest structures in Portugal at the time and quickly became a landmark for ships arriving along the Douro as well as a point of orientation within the city. Its presence turned the church into a vertical symbol of Porto's confidence and religious devotion, visible from many different quarters.

Nasoni himself is closely tied to the story of Clérigos. Beyond this church and tower, he worked on notable Porto landmarks such as the Misericórdia Church, the Archbishop's Palace, and the lateral loggia of Porto Cathedral, shaping much of the city's 18th-century Baroque character. He was buried in the crypt of Clérigos Church, although the exact location of his grave has been lost, adding a touch of mystery to the site. Today, the complex stands not just as a masterpiece of Baroque architecture but as a monument to the architect who helped define Porto's historic centre.

Things to See and Do in the Clérigos Church and Tower

Most visits begin in front of the church, where you can stand back and take in the full drama of the Baroque façade, with its heavy ornamentation, sculpted figures, and large central window. Step through the entrance and you are immediately inside the elliptical nave, an unusual plan that feels both intimate and grand. Look for the richly decorated high altar in polychromed marble, the carved woodwork of the side chapels, and the play of light and shadow across the stone surfaces.

The real highlight for many visitors is the tower itself. After passing through the museum and initial levels, you start the climb up a tight spiral of around 240 steps. The staircase can feel narrow and busy at times, but as you emerge onto the viewing platform, Porto opens up in every direction: the cathedral on one hill, the Douro shimmering below, the Dom Luís I Bridge in the distance, and a sea of red-tiled roofs stretching toward the Atlantic. On clear days, you can linger to pick out familiar landmarks and watch the city's trams, buses, and people moving far below.

Do not skip the small museum areas, where you can see religious art, vestments, and objects linked to the Clérigos Brotherhood, as well as interpretive panels about the history and construction of the church and tower. Since 2015, the Clérigos Brotherhood has also opened the tower and church for nighttime visits on selected dates, allowing you to experience Porto under the stars with the city lights spread beneath you. If you enjoy photography or simply want a memorable moment above the rooftops, it is worth checking whether a night opening coincides with your stay.

How to Get to the Clérigos Church and Tower

Clérigos Church and Tower sit in the Baixa/Cordoaria area of central Porto, a short walk from many of the city's main sights. Most international visitors arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, Porto's main hub, located to the northwest of the city and connected by metro, buses, and taxis to the centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Porto on Booking.com. From the airport you can take the metro (line E) to Trindade or Aliados and then continue on foot, by bus, or by tram toward the Clérigos area.

If you are travelling within Portugal, trains are a convenient way to reach Porto.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Long-distance services usually arrive at Campanhã station, from where frequent local trains run into São Bento station, famous for its blue-and-white azulejo panels. From São Bento it is an easy 5-10 minute walk slightly uphill to Clérigos Church and Tower, passing by cafés, shops, and viewpoints along the way.

Buses and trams also serve the Clérigos area, with several lines stopping nearby on streets such as Cordoaria and Aliados. If you choose to arrive by car, be aware that central Porto has one-way systems, narrow streets, and limited parking; it is generally easier to leave your car in an underground car park near Avenida dos Aliados or at Trindade and walk the last stretch to the tower. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Clérigos Church and Tower

Suggested tips: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a steady climb on narrow stairs; bring water on hot days and a light layer if you plan to linger at the top in the evening breeze.
Best time to visit: Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest queues and enjoy softer light; sunset visits can be spectacular but are also popular, so consider booking ahead.
Entrance fee: Church: Free entrance. Tower and Museum of the Brotherhood: Tower €5.00; Tower and Museum €10.00
Opening hours: Daily: 09:00 to 19:00
Official website: https://www.torredosclerigos.pt/en/planning-a-visit-to-clerigos/
How long to spend: Set aside 60-90 minutes to explore the church, museum, and climb the tower without rushing; add extra time if you want to wait for sunset or take lots of photos.
Accessibility: The church interior is relatively accessible, but the tower has no lift and involves a long, narrow staircase, so it is not suitable for visitors with reduced mobility or severe vertigo.
Facilities: Expect basic facilities such as a ticket office, small exhibition areas, and restrooms; more extensive food and drink options are available in the surrounding streets.
Photography tip: For skyline shots, visit on a clear day and use the tower’s parapet to steady your camera; inside the church, raise your lens toward the oval nave and high altar to capture the Baroque drama.
Guided tours: Consider combining Clérigos with nearby sights on a guided walking tour, or look for audio guides that explain the architecture and Nasoni's role in shaping Porto's Baroque identity.
Nearby food options: The area around Clérigos and nearby Rua das Flores and Cordoaria is full of cafés, wine bars, and restaurants, making it easy to pair your climb with brunch, a coffee stop, or a leisurely dinner.

Where to Stay close to the Clérigos Church and Tower

Staying near Clérigos puts you right in the heart of Porto, within walking distance of the tower, the cathedral, São Bento station, and the Ribeira waterfront. For classic five-star comfort just a short stroll away, consider Hospes Infante Sagres Porto, a historic hotel that combines elegant interiors with an unbeatable central location. If you like the idea of being on one of Porto’s liveliest streets, Oca Flores Hotel Boutique gives you apartment-style rooms and a spa right between Clérigos and Ribeira, surrounded by shops and cafés. For stylish views and a slightly quieter perch above the centre, Torel Avantgarde offers a design-focused stay within walking distance of the tower and the Crystal Palace gardens.

Is the Clérigos Church and Tower Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Clérigos Church and Tower are not only a masterpiece of Baroque architecture but also one of the best places to see in Porto, offering some of the finest views in the city and a powerful sense of history in a compact, easy-to-visit site. The combination of an unusual elliptical nave, richly decorated altarpiece, and the challenge of climbing the tower's steps makes the visit feel like a complete experience rather than just a quick look around. Whether you are in Porto for a single day or a longer stay, making time for Clérigos will give you a new perspective on the city-literally and figuratively.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (20,522)

Torre dos Clérigos on R. de São Filipe de Nery is a baroque bell tower with an interior spiral staircase that climbs to a high observation level, paired with a multi-floor museum and an active chapel; visitors praise the exceptional panoramic views across Porto and the Douro, note the museum and interior architecture as interesting, and warn that the narrow, crowded stairs and observation platforms can feel claustrophobic at busy times, so advance tickets, going in quieter periods, and using available restrooms early can make the visit more comfortable.

Magdalena Nikolic

2 weeks ago

"The ticket per person is 10euros. You can visit the museum ( 3 floors) and after that you climb the stairs to the top of the tower. It was rainy whenwe visited it, but the view is exceptional and worth the money!!! There was not a lot of tourist at the tower at the moment so I assume, when there is a little bit more people, it could be difficult to go up and down.... Stairs are really narrow but manageable. Would recommend!..."

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Esther B

a month ago

"This is arguably one of Porto’s most recognizable landmarks, built in the mid-18th century by architect Nicolau Nasoni for the brotherhood ofclerics. Our walking tour guide mentioned that it is approximately about 75 metres tall, with about 225 stairs to climb up. From the top, you are offered a panoramic view of Porto, the rooftops, the Douro River and the city layout. The tower and the associated church (Igreja dos Clérigos) are fine examples of Baroque style in Portugal. If you’re looking for a “view over Porto” experience, this is one of the best vantage spots. The climb makes is a bit of an activity, but well worth the view...."

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Paul Morrison

2 months ago

"The chapel is beautiful and was very much active in communion service and I think a few christenings when we arrived for our 2pm slot. We were earlyas advised and so explored the architecture which is beautiful. When you enter for you allocated slot, you can explore more of the chapel and get some great views of the interior art and architecture. The museum areas on each floor were interesting too. The climb to the top of the tower is not for the claustrophobic. It is narrow and very busy with people going up and coming back down. It’s the same on the observation area half way up and when you get to the top. Overall Nice views at the top, beautiful building, very busy. Glad we done it, but once it’s done it’s done...."

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FAQs for Visiting Clérigos Church and Tower

You can usually buy tickets on site, but in busy periods such as weekends and peak season it is wise to book in advance online to avoid queues and secure a preferred time slot.

There are around 240 narrow steps to the top of the tower, and while most reasonably fit visitors manage it without problems, the staircase can feel steep, cramped, and warm in summer, so take your time and move carefully.

Yes, visiting the church itself is generally free, and you only need to buy a ticket if you want access to the tower and museum areas.

Nighttime openings usually run on selected dates around Easter, in summer, and at Christmas, rather than every night of the year, so check current schedules and availability before planning an evening visit.

Nearby Attractions to the Clérigos Church and Tower

Livraria Lello - A famous historic bookshop with a richly decorated interior that is often linked to literary legends and is just a short walk from Clérigos.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) - The city's fortress-like cathedral on a nearby hill, offering its own views and a beautiful Gothic cloister.
São Bento Railway Station - A working station renowned for its huge azulejo panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history and daily life.
Avenida dos Aliados - Porto’s grand central avenue, lined with stately buildings, hotels, and cafés, perfect for a stroll toward the river.
Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal) - A series of landscaped terraces and garden paths above the Douro, ideal for peaceful walks and wide river views.

The Clérigos Church and Clérigos Tower appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Porto!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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