Top 7 Porto Tourist Attractions

 

Being the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto is one of the oldest and most impressive places in Europe. Over the course of history, the city prospered as an important trade hub that was famous worldwide for its Porto wine. In fact, this traditional beverage is still one of the main Porto trademarks and the reason why both the amazing city and country got their names. Despite being one of the oldest European towns, it managed to preserve a variety of historical monuments and buildings. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of this lovely city, pop in the Porto bakery to try creamy pastel de nata desert while wandering around colorful medieval streets, and let your mind be blown away by the outstanding architecture of the breathtaking Porto bridges. Fancy to see the best sights of Porto? For your convenience, we've created a list featuring the unmissable Porto attractions.

1. Luis I Bridge, Porto
Luis I Bridge, Porto

The Dom Luis I Bridge is a must-see for all Porto visitors, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most recognizable symbol of the city. Walk along the outstanding double-deck metal arch and appreciate the views of the city and the Douro River. Do these openwork metal weaves by any chance remind you of another architectural jewel of Europe? This 172-meter span was completed in 1886 by a student of Gustave Eiffel who is famous for his Eiffel Tower in Paris! Moreover, during your stay in Porto, pay a visit to an adjacent avenue named in Eiffel's honor.

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2. Sao Bento Rail Station, Porto
Sao Bento Rail Station, Porto

Dating back to the 16th century, Sao Bento station is a true architectural gem hidden in the heart of the city. It got its name after the Benedictine Monastery that was located there before. In the 19th century, the talented architect Jose Marques da Silva rebuilt the monastery to the remarkable example of Porto art heritage it is today. The interior of the station is what really makes it a one-of-a-kind stop on a Porto itinerary. Its massive walls are decorated with more than 20000 traditional blue azulejo ceramic tiles, holding numerous stories and memories.

3. Lello Bookshop, Porto
Lello Bookshop, Porto

Ranked internationally as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, the Library Lello is definitely one of the top places to visit in Porto. Fall in love with the spectacular interiors with the elegantly sculpted moldings, colorful stained glass, and iconic sweeping staircase. It's no surprise that in this Porto bookstore you can literally feel magic in the air. Remember the majestic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with its enormous library and awesome stairs? Livraria Lello inspired J. K. Rowling to write some of the scenes for Harry Potter.

4. Porto Cathedral, Porto
Porto Cathedral, Porto

If you are wondering what else to see in the city, the Se Cathedral must be a part of your Porto sightseeing route. Situated in the upper part of Porto which offers dramatic views, the Cathedral is the most significant religious monument of the city. Despite its Romanesque roots, here you have a unique opportunity to see a mix of various architectural styles as the temple was rebuilt several times over the course of history. Another wonder of the cathedral is the chapel with a silver altar, it's hard to believe but the weight of the altar is 800 kg (1763 lbs)!

5. Clerigos Tower & Church, Porto
Clerigos Tower & Church, Porto

Another Porto landmark, the Clerigos Church, is one of the first Baroque churches in Portugal designed for the Brotherhood of the Clerigos by an Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century. Dominating the entire urban landscape of the city, the monumental Clerigos bell tower of the church is located at the back of the building. As a highlight, save some time to climb the 200 steps of the tallest campanile in the country and appreciate a stunning view over the old town and the Douro River.

6. Saint Idelfonso Church, Porto
Saint Idelfonso Church, Porto

Don't miss the chance to see one of the most popular Porto tourist attractions and pop in the charming church of Saint Idelfonso. Let yourself be enchanted by the jaw-dropping ceilings and beautiful stained-glass windows designed by Isolino Vaz. One of the most remarkable features of the building is the facade decorated with blue-and-white tiles. The azulejo mosaic consists of 11000 hand-painted tiles that illustrate the most important scenes from the life of San Idelfonso.

7. Villa Nova de Gaia District, Porto
Porto Wine Cellar

Curious about other things to do in Porto? Cross the Luis I Bridge to get to the other side of the Douro River where the amazing district of Villa Nova de Gaia is located. This place is well-known for its sand beaches and of course, legendary port wine. Numerous Villa Nova wineries with centuries-old cellars are scattered over the area welcoming travelers to degust the top-quality wine. Besides tastings, learn more about the history and traditions of making this worldwide famous beverage during a guided tour of the cellars.