Top 10 Must-See Places to Visit in Porto Portugal

Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, is definitely a dream destination for history and culture while admiring breathtaking views. Porto is best known for its cobbled streets, the beautiful riverfront and its famous landmarks and so many best places to visit in porto. Rest assured that there are charming spots that will be equally attractive to foodie, history buff, and scenic star gazers alike. If you are planning to visit this captivating destination, then a Portugal Tour Package is the best way to explore it hassle-free.

Porto has an abundance of attractions to get you interested; from historic cathedrals to bustling marketplaces. From the ancient neighborhoods to the glass of the famous Port wine, this city has no end of reasons to fall in love with. Here is a list of the 10 must see places to visit while in Porto which will help you plan out your trip.

Here are the Top 10 Must-See Places to Visit in Porto Portugal

1. Ribeira District

For a city that has so much to offer, Porto’s Ribeira District (sometimes still referred to as Porto itself) is one of the city’s most beautiful places, with its beautiful riverfront, buzzing atmosphere and historical charm. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, it has narrow, winding streets, colourful houses and lively cafés. Engage in a leisurely walk by the Douro River, be awe-struck by the traditional rabelo boats or just enjoy at a riverside restaurant and try the authentic home cooked Portuguese food. During the night the district gets animated with music, and so many places to visit in porto, street performance and beautiful views of the lit bridges. Ribeira is a place that can offer you history, culture, and a lively ambiance, all in the heart of Porto.

2. Dom Luís I Bridge

Porto’s most iconic landmark is the Dom Luís I Bridge, which offers spectacular views of the Douro River. This double deck metal bridge which links Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel. The metro uses the upper deck and pedestrians and vehicles use the lower deck. The upper deck walk at sunset is for the best experience, when the golden hues of the setting sun reflect off the river and make it appear magical and so many best places to visit in porto. This bridge is a must visit whether you are a photographer, a romantic or an architecture enthusiast.

3. Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and it attracts many visitors for its enchanting design and literary history. The bookstore has grand wooden staircase, stained glass ceilings, and beautiful books shelves that looks like they were plucked out of a fairytale. It is said that J.K. Rowling had lived in Porto and this architectural wonder inspired her while she created the magical ambiance of the Harry Potter series. A visit to Livraria Lello is unforgettable whether you’re a book lover or you just like beautiful spaces. Arrive when the crowds are still in Boston, as this little known gem has the power to draw visitors from most around the world.

4. Clérigos Tower

At 75 meters, Clérigos Tower is Porto’s most recognizable landmark. This baroque tower, dating from the 18th century, is inside of the Clérigos Church and it constitutes an unbelievably challenging, but equally rewarding, climb. Once up 225 steps, visitors are treated to a 360-degree view of Porto’s skyline with the Douro River, historic rooftops and distant hills. The tower has detailed architectural features and is historically important so it is a must visit attraction. Visiting in the evening will give you a magical sight as the city lights start to twinkle and it will be a truly mesmerizing experience.

5. São Bento Railway Station

São Bento Railway Station is not only a transportation hub but also a work of art. The station was built in the early 20th century and is famous for its stunning azulejo tilework. The walls are covered over 20,000 hand painted blue and white tiles depicting key moments in Portuguese history from battles to cultural traditions. A travel through its halls proves seamlessly historical and daily and porto best places to visit. If you’re not taking a train, or even if you are, you must stop by São Bento to admire its breathtaking artwork and take in the beauty of one of Porto’s most loved landmarks.

6. Palácio da Bolsa

Palácio da Bolsa is a neoclassical masterpiece and one of Porto’s most opulent buildings. The palace was built in the 19th century to impress visitors and investors. The Arab Room inspired by Moorish palaces of Spain is the highlight of the tour with its intricate gold detailing and rich décor. Other rooms showcase stunning chandeliers, grand staircases, and magnificent frescoes. The Palácio da Bolsa is a must visit for those who can appreciate history and art on a guided tour that is encompassed with fascinating economic history and architectural grandeur.

7. Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)

One of the most important historical landmarks of the city is Porto Cathedral, or Sé do Porto. This 12th century cathedral is a combination of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architectural styles, that is, centuries of transformation. The exterior of the cathedral is imposing and the cloisters are decorated with beautiful azulejo tiles painted with religious stories. The best part of visiting is stepping onto the terrace where you can take in a breathtaking panoramic view of Porto’s rooftops and the Douro River. porto top attractions Cathedral is a marvelous building to be explored or just to relax in its serene atmosphere, if you are history fan, tourists or just curious people.

8. Foz do Douro

Foz do Douro is just the place for a peaceful retreat away from a city’s hustle and bustle. This coastal neighborhood is located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean and has scenic promenades, golden beaches and charming seaside cafés. A leisurely walk is an ideal place for it, especially at sunset when the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink. One of the favourite places for photography is the Felgueiras Lighthouse standing up proudly against the crashing waves. Foz do Douro is either your tea time escape, fresh seafood heaven or breath of the ocean breeze.

9. Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia

Porto is known for its port wine and the best place to try it is in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from the centre of town. This area is home to some of the most famous wine cellars and is accessible for guided tours where visitors can learn of the traditional wine making process and take samples of different types of port. Whether you visit Taylor’s, Sandeman, or Graham’s, you will see how this iconic Portuguese drink is made. The tasting session is one of the most enjoyable and cultural experiences in Porto, and it is enjoyed with a view of the river.

10. Mercado do Bolhão

Porto’s most famous market, Mercado do Bolhão, gives a glimpse into local life. Early 20th century, built historic market packed with fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheese and limp pastries. You can walk through the market and hear the lively chatters of the vendors and smell the tradition Portuguese delicacies. This is a perfect place to taste authentic flavor and shop for local souvenirs, and experience merchant’s warmest hospitality. It doesn’t matter if you’re after some quick snack, an immersive cultural event, the place you’ve been searching for is Mercado do Bolhão.

Conclusion:

A mixture of history, culture and splendid landscapes, Porto is a city that simply seduces travelers. Bathed in sun and dotted with one dramatic landmark, Porto has something to tell you from every river-facing neighborhood, to its end. From admiring the azulejo covered walls of São Bento Rail Station, going all the way up Clérigos Tower to catch a splendid view or going to Mercado do Bolhão and taking in the bustling atmosphere, there are many, many unforgettable things to do. However, if you explore these best places to visit in Porto, you will get a real taste of Porto’s rich heritage, warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere.

A Portugal Tour Package from India will make your trip more enjoyable and stress free if you are planning a trip. Given the fact that you will enjoy seamless travel arrangements and curated experiences, you can take off the burden of finding the best places to visit and go around exploring it. But whether you like food, history, sceneries, Porto will leave you with memories that will last forever. Then search your bags and prepare to see one of Europe’s most attractive destinations!

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