Portugal’s second largest city lies in the northwest of the country on the Atlantic coast. Among its many attractions, the city is famous for its Port wine.

Porto is also called the city of bridges (Cidade das Pontes), currently six bridges connect it to Vila Nova de Gaia, famous for its cellars on the southern bank of the river. The historic city center is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

I have been two days in Porto, the travelogue is here!

Porto attractions

Vila Nova de Gaia

The section running along the southern bank of the Douro River offers a great view of the old town, and there are also many wineries here. In addition, there are many cafes and restaurants on the promenade.

White-washed inscriptions on red roof tiles, huge illuminated neon letters at night, and names decorating the sails of characteristic barco rabelos boats standing on the shore all advertise the major British wine trading companies (Taylor, Graham, Cockburn, Sandeman).

You can also book a cellar visit, with presentations combined with tastings available at various prices.

Make sure to visit the Espaço Porto Cruz shop! Everything here is about wine, and the rooftop terrace offers a great view of the city.

Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte Luís I)

The iconic double-deck cast iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto’s historic center with Vila Nova de Gaia.

The upper level carries trams and pedestrians, while the lower level is for car and pedestrian traffic. Its total length is 385 meters, with the main arch spanning 172 meters. Its upper level is 45 meters above the river, providing a stunning view of both cities.

Gaia Cable Car (Téléphérique de Gaia)

The cable car connects the upper level of Dom Luís I Bridge with the riverside promenade of Vila Nova de Gaia. There are many cafes and bars around the lower station.

It covers the 600-meter distance in 5 minutes with a 59-meter elevation change. There’s a beautiful view of the opposite Ribeira quarter during the ride.

All information here!

Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar

The 17th-century monastery is located on a hill not far from the southern part of the bridge and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The circular church was likely inspired by the Roman Pantheon in Italy. The interior of the church is also circular, which is rare in Portugal.

The view of the old town from here is the most beautiful, as it overlooks the opposite side from a higher point than the bridge.

Access: Take metro „D” to Jardim do Morro station.

Church of Saint Francis (Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco)

The oldest church in the city. It doesn’t show much from the outside, but it’s very special.

Its construction began at the end of the 13th century and was completed in the 15th century. It’s basically Gothic in style, with the interior of the church richly decorated in Baroque style in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa)

The Stock Exchange Palace, standing next to the Church of Saint Francis, is the most visited building in the city.

Its construction began in 1842 and lasted for more than 60 years, initiated by the Porto Chamber of Commerce. Its architectural style is eclectic, incorporating neoclassical and neo-Romanesque elements.

Its most famous room is the Sala Árabe, the Arab Room, which is a gold-decorated room where guests were formerly received.

It can only be visited as part of a guided tour!

All information here!

Clerigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos)

The 75-meter-high granite clock tower was built in the 18th century. It’s a symbol of Porto for many.

It stands next to the Igreja dos Clérigos, the Clerigos Church, and it’s called the „tower of the clerics” because its construction was financed by priests.

A spiral staircase leads up to the top through six floors, offering a good view. The viewing platform is paid, and the entrance ticket also allows access to the Clérigos Museum.

All information here!

São Bento Railway Station

The 19th-century train station is famous for its elaborately crafted azulejo tiles in the main hall.

The frescoes made of more than 20,000 tiles depict significant moments in Portuguese history.

Ribeira

The old town west of the Dom Luís I Bridge is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Viewed from the river, this ancient city core is a colorful and lively sight, most beautiful in the afternoon sun.

The houses, alleys, and churches clustered around the former riverside fish market provide a truly diverse cityscape. It’s worth wandering around the district for an hour or two, as there are many good restaurants and lots to see here!

Guindais Funicular (Funicular dos Guindais)

It connects Riberia and Batalha quarters in just 2 minutes. The journey offers a great view of the Douro River and Dom Luís I Bridge.

Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)

The Porto Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and one of the oldest buildings in the city. Its construction began in the 12th century and continued for several hundred years, incorporating various styles.

The cathedral’s facade is dominated by two massive towers, one of which still retains features of the Romanesque style. In the 14th century, a Gothic-style chapel was added, famous for its special windows and vaults. There’s also a baptistery chapel rebuilt in Baroque style in the 17th century.

Casa da Musica

Various musical performances are held in this building, opened in 2005.

The building itself is worth seeing, symbolizing modern architecture with its irregular shape. It’s possible to participate in guided tours.

Access: Take metro A, B, C, E, F to Casa da Música station.

Livraria Lello Bookstore

This beautiful bookstore is considered one of the most beautiful of its kind in the world. However, the store is famous for something else too.

JK Rowling lived and taught English in the city for years. Several locations in the Harry Potter novels were inspired by this place. The stairs of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the novel were clearly inspired by the bookstore’s interior.

Because of this, the bookstore’s tourist traffic has greatly increased. You need to purchase a 5 euro redeemable entry ticket to enter the store. This can be bought at the Armazéns do Castelo shop two buildings away or online.

Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas)

The azulejo-covered church is one of Portugal’s characteristics with its blue color.

Tile-covered churches can be found elsewhere, but in Portugal, white with blue painting became established. This church also shines in these colors, covered with 15,947 tiles.

Among the scenes depicted on the tiles are St. Francis preaching to the birds, the martyrdom of St. Catherine, as well as other biblical scenes and moments from the lives of saints.

Bolhao Market (Mercado do Bolhão)

Porto’s largest market where we can also taste products from local producers.

We can find all kinds of products, if we want to buy souvenirs, it’s worth looking around here.

Serralves Museum (Fundação Serralves)

We can see works by 20th-century contemporary artists here. Its building was designed by famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira in a modernist style.

It’s worth looking around not only inside the building, as there are many creations in its garden too. The park covers more than 18 hectares and includes various sections, sculptures, and ponds.

Access: Take bus 203 to Serralves stop.

All information here!

Tram Museum (Museu do Carro Elétrico)

It showcases Porto’s iconic means of transport and its history. It opened in 1992 in the building of the former Massarelos tram depot, which is itself of historical significance.

In addition to numerous beautifully restored trams, we can also admire the old network transformer and distribution station. There are more than 20 historical trams dating from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.

The entrance fee is cheaper if you have an Andante Card, Port Card, or tram ticket!

All information here!

Access: Take tram 1 or 18, or bus 500 to Museu C. Eléctrico stop.

Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico do Porto)

A beautifully landscaped garden. Excellent for a relaxing walk. We can also see exhibitions about wildlife in a gallery.

Entry is free!

Access: Take bus 200, 204, or 207 to Jardim Botânico stop.

Crystal Park (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal)

Porto’s most beautiful park, if you have free time, it’s definitely worth visiting for a peaceful walk.

From the southern part of the park, there’s a very beautiful view of the Douro River and the opposite bank.

Access: Take bus 200, 201, 207, 208, 507, or 601 to Palácio stop.

Felgueiras Lighthouse (Farol das Felgueiras)

Porto’s iconic lighthouse is located at the mouth of the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean.

In calm weather, it’s very pleasant to walk and relax here, and it’s great to sunbathe on the nearby beach at such times. It’s worth coming out in slightly windy weather too, as the wind induces huge waves rising high with great force. This is also a beautiful sight!

Access: Take tram 1 to Passeio Alegre stop.

Fortaleza de São João da Foz

This 16th-century fortress, located near the lighthouse, was built against pirates and other attacks.

It has remained in good condition and although it’s a small area, it’s worth a short walk.

Port wine

Port wine is among Porto’s attractions. It’s a somewhat interesting phrasing, but the wine is an integral part of the city and world-famous.

It’s made from grapes grown about 100 kilometers from Porto, in the upper Douro River region, in a Mediterranean climate tending towards continental.

The wine produced in the Douro Valley was traditionally floated down the lower, navigable section of the river on galleys to the estuary to be aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia – nowadays, the harvested grapes are transported there, and the finished wine is also bottled there.

Interestingly, although it’s produced in Portugal, it’s considered a sort of „national drink” of the English.

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I arrived in Lisbon from Fuerteventura and stayed in an Airbnb apartment. The city is quite hilly, so it’s important to choose your accommodation well if you don’t like walking on steep streets.

And most importantly: it’s worth spending at least four days here, as a full day is needed for the Sintra-Cabo da Roca-Cascais trio, which can be visited in a circular tour. (I only managed to visit Sintra this time.)

Exceptionally, I won’t write much now, let the pictures speak for themselves!

Lisbon

A must-do: ride the tram through the city center.

One of Lisbon’s most iconic buildings, the Belém Tower. It’s worth taking a walk in the area and having a coffee in an open space:

Nearby is the Jerónimos Monastery, whose church houses Vasco da Gama’s tomb. There’s always a long queue, so I didn’t go inside.

For me, one mandatory museum was on the agenda, the Azulejo Museum. Beautiful tiles everywhere and the church inside is an incredible sight:

Besides the trams, you should also try the funiculars. There are three lines, all in the city center. But don’t expect a long ride, it’s more of a fun experience:

There are several viewpoints in the city, with St. George’s Castle in the background:

A night view from another viewpoint:

If you want to visit a park, let it be the Eduardo VII Park:

Lisbon’s famous bridge is the 25th of April Bridge, which resembles the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The best view is from the Christ statue on the other side of the Tagus:

And this is how they liven up Lisbon’s atmosphere:

Sintra

Outside of Lisbon, if there’s a place you must see, it’s Sintra. There are many beautiful buildings, palaces, and gardens within the town, and it’s easily accessible by a half-hour train ride.

What you absolutely can’t miss is the Quinta da Regaleira. The castle and its park are a beautiful sight, and the underground passages make the visit even more exciting:

Another popular spot is the castle towering above the town, the Castle of the Moors. You can walk along the walls built by the Moors, with spectacular views everywhere. The most beautiful part is at the very top, where you can see the yellow and red Pena National Palace opposite:

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Best museums in Lisbon

National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga)

Also known as the „Green Window Museum”, it’s one of Lisbon’s most significant museums with numerous artworks.

Its main focus is painting (e.g., Dürer, Bosch), but sculptures, metalwork, and antique furniture are also on display. Its sculpture collection is impressive, especially in Portuguese and Flemish works. Additionally, African and Asian art sculptures receive special attention.

The most famous piece is the Saint Vincent Panels by an unknown artist, which experts consider to be of the highest quality.

The metalwork collection is also significant. The cross from Alcobaça Monastery, made from gold brought back by Vasco da Gama from his Indian voyage, is kept here.

The building itself is magnificent. The Alvor Palace bears the marks of Baroque and Rococo styles. The building also has a beautiful garden with a great view of the Tagus River.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take bus 713, 714, or 727 to the Rua das Janelas Verdes stop.

National Archaeological Museum (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia)

This is one of the country’s largest archaeological museums. It’s located in part of the Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) building.

One of the most important parts of the museum’s collection is the Roman-era artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, jewelry, and everyday objects. The mosaics from the ancient city of Conimbriga are particularly outstanding.

The museum has a significant prehistoric collection with stone tools, ceramics, and other artifacts. There are also beautiful Egyptian, Celtic, and Islamic collections.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take tram 15 or bus 728, 729 to the Mosteiro Jerónimos stop.

National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

Hearing the museum’s name, one might dismiss the idea of going to look at tiles. But I encourage everyone to visit!

The museum was founded in 1965 to preserve and showcase Portuguese azulejo art. This is a type of painted, glazed ceramic tile that is one of Portugal’s most well-known and beloved art forms, and has been part of the country’s cultural heritage for centuries.

The location itself is unique, as the museum is housed in the Manueline-style Madre de Deus monastery and church. Its interior garden is also very beautiful.

Its specialties include large panoramic images depicting significant historical events, mythological scenes, or everyday life. Particularly noteworthy is the 23-meter-long 18th-century panorama of Lisbon.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take bus 718, 742, or 794 to the Igreja Madre Deus stop.

Maritime Museum (Museu Marinha)

Since Portugal has been a major naval power for centuries, it’s no wonder there’s a museum dedicated to the subject.

It was established in 1863 at the initiative of King Louis II of Portugal, who placed great emphasis on preserving and presenting Portuguese naval traditions. Along with many excellent exhibited items and ships, you can learn about the history of Portuguese navigation.

It has a rich collection of various nautical maps, navigation tools, including astrolabes, sextants, and other instruments that were essential during the age of maritime discoveries.

One of the museum’s highlights is the collection of ship models and miniatures, which showcases ships from different eras in detailed elaboration.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take tram 15 or bus 728, 729 to the Mosteiro Jerónimos stop.

National Coach Museum (Museu Coches)

This tourist-favorite museum is located in the Belém district and houses one of the world’s richest collections of coaches and carriages. Another interesting fact is that it’s located in the former riding school of the Portuguese royal family.

More than 70 coaches are on display, with the oldest dating back to the 16th century, while the „newest” one was used by Queen Elizabeth II of England in 1958.

The collection includes various ceremonial coaches that were used for special occasions such as coronations and ambassador receptions. You can see coaches not only from Portugal but from other European countries as well.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take tram 15 or bus 714, 727, 728, 751 to the Belém stop.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Although I’ve listed it last, it’s still one of the city’s most popular museums!

This is a private collection of about 6,000 pieces, founded by Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, a businessman of Armenian birth. He was one of the richest men of the 20th century and passionately collected artworks throughout his life.

This eclectic exhibition showcases artifacts from various eras (from ancient times to the early 20th century) and regions. One of its specialties is Armenian and rare bookbinding works.

It has two buildings, one housing older paintings and the other modern collections.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take the red or blue metro line to the São Sebastião metro station.

Berardo Museum (Museu Coleção Berardo)

The museum is located in the Belém district, in the Centro Cultural de Belém (CCB) cultural center, and houses one of the world’s most important collections of modern and contemporary art.

It opened in 2007 and is based on the art collection of Portuguese businessman and art collector Joe Berardo. Berardo passionately collected artworks since the 1960s and donated his collection to the Portuguese state.

The collection includes significant works of Cubism, Surrealism, Dadaism, and Constructivism. Notable representatives of these movements include Picasso, Duchamp, Salvador Dalí, and Mondrian.

In addition, you can see works from Expressionism, Pop Art, and Postmodernism.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take tram 15E to the Centro Cultural Belém stop.

Best museums in the world

There are many great museums in the world. Here are some of the best!

Read More

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Lisbon is located on the western edge of Portugal, on the Atlantic coast. It is the westernmost capital of continental Europe. Similar to Rome, the historic districts were built on the city’s seven hills.

I visited Lisbon in 2023 and wrote a travelogue about it.

Lisbon attractions

Belém Tower

The Torre de Belém is a very significant Portuguese historical monument that played an important role in the country’s history, primarily in terms of wars and geographical discoveries.

The structure is a symbol of Lisbon and of Portugal as a strong power during the Age of Discovery.

The first efforts to preserve the Belém Tower began in the mid-20th century, and it has since undergone several minor and major renovations. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1983.

The fortress stands on the northern bank of the Tagus River, dominating the waterway leading to the capital. The tower was built in the characteristic Manueline style, named after King Manuel I.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take tram 15 or bus 729 to the Largo da Princesa stop, then walk 500 meters.

St. George’s Castle (Castelo São Jorge)

St. George’s Castle is located on top of the Tagus hill and offers a splendid view of the city. It was here that Vasco da Gama was received upon returning from his voyage to India.

It’s also very popular among tourists, and in one of its towers – Torre de Ulisses – you can view the Portuguese capital and its wonders in 360 degrees with the help of a periscope.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take bus 737 (from Rossio metro station) to the Castelo stop.

Alfama

This is Lisbon’s oldest quarter, stretching from the castle hill slope down to the Tagus River. The previously mentioned São Jorge Castle is located at its top.

There are many churches here, but the cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) and the Igreja de Santa Engrácia stand out. The latter has been converted into a pantheon, it’s very beautiful inside and offers a great view from its dome.

Take a long walk in this district, believe me, you’ll love it among Lisbon’s attractions!

Baixa

This district can be considered more of a tourist-built area. There are many bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. But the Central Station, built in the Manueline style, is also here.

Be sure to visit the „A Ginjinha” bar, which is one of the main attractions in Lisbon! Here you can taste ginjinha, a local liqueur.

Miradouro de São Pedro

A very tastefully and beautifully designed garden that offers an excellent panorama of the downtown and St. George’s Castle.

In the garden a few meters below the topmost part, there are many busts depicting heroes and gods from Roman and Greek mythology.

How to get there: You can reach the garden by a funicular, the Glória Funicular, which starts from the northwest corner of Praça dos Restauradores square.

Tram 28

When we say Lisbon, the first thing that comes to everyone’s mind is the yellow Tram 28. Similar to our home, this ancient yet very stylish tram is considered an attraction.

Its route is incredible, designed to run through the narrowest alleys. It passes through several districts, including Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Estrela.

Some people don’t like to travel inside, so they climb onto the back of the tram and jump off somewhere along the way.

If we have the chance, we should definitely get on it, as it’s an unmissable experience in Lisbon!

Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

The Jerónimos Monastery commemorates Vasco da Gama and the discovery of India.

One of its most special parts is the Gothic chapel and the monastery, where we can find the tombs of many famous Portuguese historical figures.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Take tram 15 or buses 728, 729 to the Mosteiro Jerónimos stop.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

The Monument to the Discoveries depicts prominent figures of Portuguese maritime history. The „leader” and largest statue is of Henry the Navigator, with others behind him (e.g., Vasco da Gama).

The pavement in front of the monument represents a world map of former Portuguese colonies.

Inside the monument, there’s an exhibition hall, and it offers a good view of the Tagus River and the 25th of April Bridge.

All information can be found here!

Easily accessible on foot from the Jerónimos Monastery.

Praça dos Restauradores

Perhaps Lisbon’s most famous square, where an obelisk commemorates the successful independence from Spain in 1640.

How to get there: Blue metro line to Restauradores stop; green metro line or tram 28 to Rossio stop.

King Edward VII Park (Parque Eduardo VII)

The city center’s most well-known park, offering a beautiful view towards the Tagus from its northwestern end.

The hedges in the park look almost like a labyrinth, and it’s a popular meeting place in the city.

How to get there: Blue metro line to Marquês de Pombal station.

Vasco da Gama Bridge

At 17.2 km, it’s Europe’s longest bridge including viaducts.

The Vasco da Gama Bridge has an expected lifespan of 120 years and is designed to withstand winds of up to 250 km/h. It’s also capable of surviving an earthquake about 4.5 times stronger than the historic 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which is estimated to have been 8.7 on the Richter scale.

To the right of the bridge’s base is a park with a pleasant promenade offering the best view of the bridge.

How to get there: Red metro line to Moscavide stop, then 800m on foot; or bus 26B to Rossio de Levante stop.

Christ the King Statue (Santuário de Cristo Rei)

The statue stands in the Almada district on the other side of the Tagus, offering a beautiful view of the city and the 25th of April Bridge.

The statue is 28 meters high, making it one of the tallest structures in Portugal. Its pedestal is 82 meters high with an observation deck at the top.

How to get there: Bus 753 to Portagem stop, then about 800 meters on foot.

Feira da Ladra

This flea market, operating since the 12th century, is open every Tuesday and Saturday from 8 AM to 5 PM. You can buy many things here; it’s worth immersing yourself in the bustle.

How to get there: Blue metro line to Santa Apolónia stop, then 700m on foot; or bus 734 to Mercado de Santa Clara stop.

Mercado da Ribeira

If you’re in the mood for a market, this is the place to go!

It’s a large hall with two sections. One is for traditional market vendors (fruits, fish, etc.), while the other is a food court area. You can eat not only local but also international cuisines here.

How to get there: Green metro line or tram 25 to Cais do Sodré stop.

Bairro Alto

Want to experience the atmosphere of Portuguese bars? This central district is the winner! There are about 250 (!) bars in this area, so if you can’t find a suitable one, the problem is with you! 🙂

Tram 28 passes through the district; it’s worth exploring this area with it.

Elevador de Santa Justa

The Santa Justa Lift is unique in that it connects the Baixa district with the higher Carmo Square. It’s the city’s only vertical lift built for public transportation.

The metal, 45-meter high lift consists of a tower, an observation deck, and a walkway. It’s seven stories high and has two cabins carrying passengers in both directions.

From the top, there’s a beautiful view of the downtown and the castle hill opposite.

It’s free to use with a 24-hour ticket!

How to get there: Blue or green metro to Baixa-Chiado stop, then 200m on foot.

Oceanarium

Did you know it’s considered the world’s second-best aquarium?

There are countless special fish here, offering a truly wonderful spectacle. The aquariums contain 5 million liters of water.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Red metro line to Oriente stop.

Teleférico de Lisboa

The cable car runs parallel to the waterfront, offering a great view. Its southern terminal is at the Oceanarium. It requires a separate ticket.

All information can be found here!

How to get there: Red metro line to Oriente stop.

Best museums in Lisbon

The Portuguese capital is famous for its museums, among which there are some interesting ones. I’ll introduce a few museums in Lisbon that are worth visiting.

Read more

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