10 Top Things to See and Do in Oporto (Porto), Portugal
With its cobblestone streets, grand plazas, colorful tiled facades, and winding alleys, Oporto (commonly and affectionately known as Porto) is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. Located on the Douro River, the city is home to some of the country’s best-known landmarks and attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the unique culture and beauty of Portugal. From its iconic bridges to its vibrant nightlife, here are the top 10 sights and activities to see and do in Oporto.
1. Visit the Tower of Clerigos
The Tower of Clerigos is one of the most iconic landmarks in Oporto, and is certainly worth a visit. Located in the heart of the city, the Tower stands at 75 meters tall and is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. The Baroque-style tower was built in 1763 by Nicolau Nasoni, and its Gothic spire can be seen from all over the city. Visitors can climb the tower’s 225 steps for amazing views over the city, or take part in a guided tour to learn more about its fascinating history.
Book a tour to visit the Tower of Clerigos
2. Explore the Ribeira District
The Ribeira District is one of the most picturesque parts of Oporto, and is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the city. Located along the Douro riverbank, the district is full of colorful buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and lively bars and restaurants. In addition to exploring the area by foot, visitors can also take a boat tour along the river for stunning views of the city’s skyline.
Book a boat tour of the Ribeira District
3. Visit the Sao Francisco Church
The Sao Francisco Church is one of Oporto’s most impressive churches, and is well worth a visit. The church was built in the early 16th century in a Gothic-Baroque style, and is known for its ornate interior and beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can take part in guided tours to learn more about the church’s history, or admire its beauty from outside.
Book a tour to visit the Sao Francisco Church
4. Take a Port Wine Tour
Porto is best known for its delicious port wine, and visitors should not miss out on taking a tour of some of the city’s wineries. There are several tours available that will take visitors to some of Oporto’s best wineries, where they can sample some of the city’s finest port wines and learn more about the production process.
5. Visit Serralves Museum
The Serralves Museum is one of Oporto’s best-known museums, and is a must-visit spot for culture lovers who want to explore the city’s art scene. Located in a stunning Art Deco building, the museum is home to an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art from both Portugal and around the world. Visitors can also explore the museum’s beautiful gardens, which feature art installations, sculptures, and other works of art.
Book a visit to Serralves Museum
6. Take a Cruise on the Douro River
For stunning views over Oporto’s skyline, visitors should consider taking a cruise on the Douro River. There are several different cruise options available, ranging from one-hour sightseeing cruises to leisurely day cruises that include stops at some of Oporto’s most iconic landmarks.
7. Shop at Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is one of Oporto’s best-known bookstores, and is a must-visit spot for book lovers who want to explore its vast selection of books from around the world. Located in a stunning building that dates back to 1906, the bookstore is renowned for its ornate interior, which features stained glass windows, intricately carved woodwork, and an impressive central staircase.
Book a visit to Livraria Lello
8. Visit Palacio da Bolsa
The Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) is one of Oporto’s most impressive buildings, and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture or history. The building was constructed in 1842 in a neo-classical style, and features an ornate interior filled with intricate stonework and beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can take part in guided tours to learn more about the building’s fascinating history and architecture.
Book a tour to visit Palacio da Bolsa
9. Explore Bom Sucesso Market
The Bom Sucesso Market is one of Oporto’s oldest markets, and is a great spot to find locally-made souvenirs and gifts. The market features stalls selling everything from handmade ceramics and traditional clothing to jewelry and local food specialties. Visitors can also take part in traditional cooking classes to learn how to make some of Oporto’s most famous dishes.
Book a cooking class at Bom Sucesso Market
10. Sample Oporto’s Culinary Specialties
No trip to Oporto would be complete without sampling some of its delicious culinary specialties. The city is renowned for its seafood dishes such as francesinha (a sandwich made with steak, ham, sausage, cheese, and egg) as well as its famous port wine and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). Visitors can also take part in food tours to try some of Oporto’s best dishes while exploring some of its most iconic neighborhoods.
Conclusion
Oporto is one of Portugal’s most beautiful cities, with its cobblestone streets, grand plazas, colorful tiled facades, and winding alleys making it an incredibly picturesque destination for travelers from all over the world. From its iconic landmarks such as the Tower of Clerigos to its vibrant nightlife and delicious culinary specialties, there are plenty of sights and activities to see and do in Oporto – all just waiting to be explored!
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