Porto has a very different feel from Lisbon.
In Lisbon, there is a lot of neoclassical architecture. The city is modest and isn’t as extravagant as previous eras. Much of that is because of the earthquake that leveled much of the city in 1755. As the city worked to rebuild, many structures were completed in the later half of the 18th century — and it shows.
In Porto, you’ll still find the “old world” feel. There are Gothic buildings and intricate decorations. In my opinion, it gives the city more of a feeling that I equate to other popular European cities.
Sao Bento train station
If you have the choice, travel to Porto by train and make sure you arrive at the Sao Bento train station. It’s easy to reach from cities across the country. You’ll want to have your camera ready when you step off your train.
Follow the crowd and you’ll eventually find yourself gazing at thousands of intricate blue and white azulejo tiles. The tiles show scenes of historic battles in the country’s history. Other scenes are of Portugal’s beautiful countryside. There are more than 20,000 tiles in all!
Porto’s amazing tile work continues across the street from Sao Bento at St. Anthony’s Church Congregados. The current church is actually a replica of the original which stood in the same place for hundreds of years. The church is known for it’s tile facade. It depicts the story of st. Anthony and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Livraria Lello Bookstore
Speaking of amazing buildings, Pinterest is making Livraria Lello a must-see for many travelers. It’s been named Porto’s most beautiful bookshop, the coolest bookshop in the world, and even the most beautiful on the planet. The story is that J.K. Rowling used to visit the book store and it inspired her to write. There is an entire section dedicated to Harry Potter books in many different languages.
The bookstore opened in 1906. Its unique architecture is much different than other nearby buildings. Once you walk inside, you’ll be greeted by a stunning staircase. It looks like wood, but it’s actually made of cement! If you plan to visit the bookstore, you’ll need to start next door and buy a ticket. It will cost you 5 euro. (If you buy a book inside the story, you’ll get 5 euro off your purchase.) You’ll also want to make sure you visit on a warm and sunny day. You’ll likely be standing in a loooonnnggg line to get inside.
Clérigos Tower
If you’re hoping for a great view of the city, Clerigos Tower is the place for you! It will cost you about 5 euro for a chance to climb the nearly 250 steps to the top of the tower. Your ticket also includes admission to the Clerigos Museum. If you want to see Porto in a different light, you can also climb the tower to see its panoramic views at night!
Duro River AreaSince you’re already by the Douro, explore the area on the river’s banks. It’s known as Praca da Ribeira. This is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city of Porto. It’s also home to much of the city’s creative side. You’ll find painters, wander past photographers, and see restaurants as you explore the area. Stop in and enjoy a glass of port wine at a bar in the area.
Port House
And when it comes to wine, you can’t leave Porto without visiting a Port house. There are many to chose from. We personally ended up at Ferreira Cellars. Ferreira started making wine in an old convent in 1751. After a quick tour of the cellars, you’ll enjoy two glasses of Port. A ticket for the tour and tasting costs 12 euro. Tours at Ferreira are offered daily from 10 a. – 12:30 pm and 2 pm – 6 pm.
Douro Profundo offers a great list and map of other port houses to check out when you visit!
If you’re concerned about trying to find all of the locations on the list, it’s possible to hire a guide. Nelson showed us every location on this list — and more. He explained the importance of each and told us stories of life in Porto along the way. He made sure we had a great port tasting … and even a Francesinha on request for lunch. He even took us to a grocery store to get better deals on wine to take home with us! We paid around $200 for a full-day private and custom tour for four people through “URoad.” Contact Nelson at nelson@uroadportugal.com if you’re interested in booking one for yourself.