About this experience
I invite you to delve into the dark side of mystical Porto! We will stroll through hidden spots away from prying eyes, while also not forgetting about the well-known landmarks. Along the way, you will learn why the Portuguese burn figurines of children, what ghosts disturb the city's residents' sleep, why pursuing higher education here can be life-threatening, and much more.
What to Expect
The route takes you through the central streets passing by major attractions such as São Bento train station, Aliados Square, Clérigos Tower, Carmo Church, and Santo Antônio Hospital. You will also see the tourist side of Porto and get acquainted with its secrets not commonly discussed on regular sightseeing tours.
You will learn:
- Which ghosts unsettle the residents of the northern capital;
- Which scandalous trials in Porto were watched like reality shows;
- Why historians lie about the largest tragedy in Porto;
- Why Fernando Pessoa is considered the most mystical Portuguese writer;
- Who the famous 'woman-man' is, whose life and sudden death were followed by the press;
- How the Portuguese test saints to find a partner;
- Why they burn figurines of children and organs;
- How prisoners ended up in doorless cells;
- What punishment the court imposed for marital infidelity;
- Why a woman became Portugal's first serial killer;
- Which sweets Portuguese eat to preserve male potency in old age;
- Why pursuing higher education here can be life-threatening.
Who the Route Is Suitable For
We will walk about 2.5 km. Porto is a hilly city, but the route is planned so that there are no difficult climbs. However, it is best to choose comfortable flat-soled shoes due to several sections of uneven cobblestones. I do not recommend this tour to people who:
- have difficulty walking,
- use a wheelchair,
- travel with children in a stroller.
Organizational Details
- This tour will be a great addition to the standard city sightseeing walk
- All attractions are viewed only from the outside
- Only adult guests and residents of Porto are allowed on the tour. Due to violence-related stories, an age restriction of 18+ was introduced.
- No mandatory additional expenses are required
- I or another guide from our team will conduct the tour for you
