Where we are
Where we are
Porto
One of the oldest European tourist destinations, the richness of Porto rests in its monuments and artistic heritage, but also in the contemporary and creative side of the town. Considered European Best Destination in 2012, 2014 and 2017 by travelers worldwide, in 1996 the historical centre of Porto was classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Porto has reinvented itself throughout the last years balancing tradition with innovation. The result is a great diversity that can be seen in the monuments, architecture, museums, but also in the green spaces, shopping areas and the terraces with their "vistas" (views) over the city that unfold along the river Douro and the Atlantic shore.
Mercado do Bolhão (Bolhão Market)
Dating back to 1850, with a singular structure with two floors, Bolhão Market is one of the dearest icons of the town. Dedicated mainly at fresh products, its sellers are divided into different specialised sections, namely: fishmongers, butchers, green grocers and florists.
Café Majestic
Considered one of the most beautiful cafés in the world, Café Majestic lives up to his name with its Belle Epoque atmosphere and art nouveau interior. Since 1921 it has been the setting for cultural events and enjoyment, for both local people and tourists.
Capela das Almas (Almas Chapple)
This chapel is just around the corner, in Rua Santa Catarina, a pedestrian street that hosts many stores and tea shops. Its tiles portraying the lives of various saints will probably become a familiar sight for you.
Ribeira
One way to know the city is to begin where the city itself began. Enjoy the river front, the views, the restaurants, the cafés and the "barcos rabelos" (the boats once used to transport wine from the Douro). Then cross to the other side of the river where the famous wine cellars and lodges are.
Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace)
It's the most visited monument in the northern Portugal. Along with the grand architectural design of the Hall of Nations and the famous Arab Room, there are other noteworthy attractions that will be revealed to you during the guided visit. This is an authentic work of art, with undisputed prominence as a representative of the city.
Sé (Cathedral)
Standing on a hilltop, the cathedral was founded in the 12th century and holds extensive History. In its interior, one can see a Gothic rose window, the cloister & loggia with their hand-painted tiles (called “azulejos” in Portuguese) and the courtyards.
Ponte D. Luís (D. Luís Bridge)
The upper deck of D. Luis bridge provides one of the most stunning views of the river and the old town at any time of the day. The bridge itself a well known postcard of the city. When it was completed in 1886 by a student of Gustave Eiffel, it held the record for the longest iron arch in the world.
Estação de São Bento
(São Bento Train Station)
Nearby the Sé, this is one of the Oporto’s major train stations and presents large tiles (“azulejo” panels) that depict Portuguese history milestones. Very central to many touristic attractions, it was listed amongst the most beautiful railway stations in the world by Travel & Leisure magazine.
Torre dos Clérigos (Clérigos Tower)
Designed in the mid-1700s by Nicolau Nasoni , this is one of Oporto’s symbols. The visitor has to climb 240 steps up a narrow spiral staircase to reach a panoramic view of Porto’s churches and rooftops, the curve of the Douro River and the historic port warehouses.
Livraria Lello (Lello bookshop)
Another reason placing Oporto on the tourist map: British newspaper The Guardian calls it "divine". Open since 1906, this Neo-Gothic bookshop with its famous staircase is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. On the ground floor visitors can see the busts of Portuguese writers.
Casa da Música (House of Music)
Considered one of the best works of the Dutch architect Rem Koolhas, don’t be dazzled only by the outside. The acoustics of the concert hall makes you want to visit and maybe watch a show or take a guided tour.
Jardim do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace gardens)
Peacocks and a gorgeous botanical garden, as well as some of the best lookouts upon the city. Wander and sit on a bench, it’s a cozy place to take children.
Rua de Miguel Bombarda
(Miguel Bombarda Street)
This street and those around it are called by locals the “Art Block”. Galleries, vintage and design shops, as well as an alternative shopping center offer visitors the new and trendy side to the city.
Serralves
Despite its location on Oporto’s western fringes, it’s a must see for those who like contemporary art and open spaces. Serralves has its own park with a lake, gardens and a tea house. Sculptures coexist with trees like sequoias and you’ll find a 1500 year old olive tree. Serralves was designed by the Matosinhos-born architect Alvaro Siza Vieira who won the Prtizker award in 1992.
Parque da Cidade (City Park)
Located on the way to Matosinhos, this is the largest urban park in Portugal. It stretches out to the ocean thus having a sea front, uncommon for an outdoor space like this. This is one of the best places to embrace nature and simply relax. City Park hosts important events such as the annual edition of the music festival Primavera Sound.
