About this experience
I will help you unlock the treasure chest of Porto, revealing its countless treasures: magnificent architecture, rich history, maritime victories, love tragedies, port wine, the scent of sardines, abundant sunshine, and seagulls. You will visit the most interesting areas of the historic center, walk the paths of Romans, Moors, and Visigoths, and witness the medieval Europe that, while preserving its colorful heritage, is heading towards the future.
What to Expect
Main Squares and a Fairytale Bookstore
The tour begins in the Cordoaria district. Its unusual name is linked to the fact that once rope-making masters 'cordoeiros' worked here. You will visit the Garden of Plane Trees with laughing sculptures and ascend the Clerigos Tower, a symbol of Porto and one of the city's most prominent landmarks. Next, you will step into a fairytale bookstore where you will admire the interiors and reminisce about an English novel. The next stop is the magnificent ensemble of Trindade and Liberdade squares connected by the Allies' Avenue, alongside the majestic City Hall building. I will narrate their history and unfold the architectural peculiarities. Another remarkable Porto structure is the Sao Bento train station, where you will see the famous vestibule adorned with traditional Portuguese 'azulejo' tiles.
Cathedral and Picturesque Ribeira
In the second part of the tour, you will ascend to the Cathedral of Se situated atop a hill. I will share when it was built and its initial purpose. Below, right behind the cathedral, cling the old neighborhoods rising in terraces from the riverfront to the granite cliff. You will stroll through the alleys of Bairro da Se, the poorest but most picturesque district of the city. Next, you will wander through Ribeira, a colorful neighborhood right by the river. Here, life buzzes round the clock: daytime for work and at night for cafes and restaurants. You will visit 'Casa do Infante,' the house where in 1394 the heir of King John I, later known as Henry the Navigator, was born.
Riverside Walk and the Best View of Porto
Not far from Ribeira is the Church of Igreja de São Francisco, whose exquisite interior decoration will captivate you with its elegance and beauty. You will reach out to the medieval Fernandina Wall constructed in the 14th century, and learn its tragic tale of love and betrayal. Then, you will stroll along the vibrant Cais da Ribeira riverside along the Douro River, where you will spot numerous small boats and ships - if desired, you can board one for a float. The tour concludes with an ascent to the 16th-century Renaissance church featuring a unique circular inner courtyard, offering a breathtaking view of Porto.
Organizational Details
Tour Itinerary
- You can opt to extend or shorten the duration of the tour
- If there are more than 4 participants, a surcharge of 10 euros will apply per additional participant
- Children under 14 years old can join the tour for free
Additional Expenses
- Entrance tickets - 2-6 euros per person (visit to paid attractions during the tour is optional)
- Boat trip on the Douro River - 15-25 euros per person
