Visiting Porto Guide

Visiting Porto: Must-See Spots

Porto, Historic intro:

The Historic Centre of Porto is the oldest area of this ancient city in Portugal. It has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. If arriving by car, you can park at Praça do Infante; by train, you can arrive at São Bento Station; or by boat, at Cais de Gaia. A walking tour through Porto’s city centre is suggested, with stops at many points of interest.

Dom Luís I Bridge

This double-deck iron bridge, built between 1881 and 1888, connects the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Church of São Francisco

A Gothic church located in the parish of São Nicolau in Porto, it was originally part of a Franciscan convent built in the 14th century.

Palácio da Bolsa

The Palácio da Bolsa, or the Palace of the Porto Commercial Association, began construction in October 1842, following the closure of the Stock Exchange House.

Rua das Flores

This street takes its name from the lush gardens filled with flowers that once covered the land where it was built. It was originally named 'Rua de Santa Catarina das Flores,' after Bishop D. Pedro Álvares da Costa’s devotion to Saint Catherine of Mount Sinai.

Clérigos Church and Tower

This iconic 18th-century architectural complex is considered one of Porto’s most famous landmarks. Construction began in 1732 and lasted until 1749, with several interruptions and structural changes along the way. The facade was completed in 1750, and the church was consecrated in 1779.

Lello Bookshop

Also known as Lello & Irmão or Chardron Bookshop, it is located at Rua das Carmelitas, 144. Its unique historical and artistic value has earned it recognition as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world by various entities and personalities.

Avenida dos Aliados / City Hall

Avenida dos Aliados, in the parish of Santo Ildefonso, is the main avenue in Porto’s historic centre. Together with Praça da Liberdade and Praça General Humberto Delgado, it forms a continuous urban space.

Bolhão Market

Bolhão Market is one of Porto’s most iconic markets. Its monumental neoclassical architecture makes it a standout.

Rua de Santa Catarina

Located in the parishes of Santo Ildefonso and Bonfim, Rua de Santa Catarina is the main commercial street in downtown Porto. It is largely pedestrianized and closed to traffic.

Café Majestic

This historic café, located on Rua de Santa Catarina, is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and cultural significance, having hosted many famous literary and artistic figures. It is considered one of the most beautiful cafés in the world.

São Bento Railway Station

Located in Praça de Almeida Garrett, the station’s French-influenced building was designed by Porto architect José Marques da Silva. It opened in 1896 and was officially inaugurated on October 5, 1916.

Porto Cathedral

Construction of Porto’s cathedral began in the first half of the 12th century and lasted until the early 13th century. Its Romanesque-style structure has undergone many changes over the centuries, with original features including its towers, rose window, and barrel-vaulted nave supported by flying buttresses.