Many of the tourist attractions in Porto -Portugal are located close to each other in the city centre. These include landmarks and some major monuments that hold a lot of importance to the city. Also, a fact to note is that hilly terrains characterize most of the city and hence some walking needs to be done in order to reach some of the attractions.
There are a number of tour firms operating in Porto, and one particular example is the Porto Tours which is located on the Calcade Pedro Pitoes. Porto Vintage, which is a local company, also provides bus tours. For some adventure experience, one can also opt for the River Duoro cruize using the ‘barcos rabelos’ boats or the Cais da Ribeira. The former are known for the role they played in the transportation of port wine. Let us examine some of these tourist attractions in Porto and see what the city has to offer to its visitokrs.
Ribeira Area Attractions
There are many attractive sceneries that are found in this district which also give you a clear understanding of the city’s history. First is the promenade of the riverside of River Ribeira. This has a historical link with the ‘barcos rabelos’ which are the traditional boats where they used to transport port wine on River Duoro. Other landmark attractions here include the Caso do Infante which is now renovated, the Igreja de Sao Francisco Gothic Church, the Palacio da Bolsa that a very magnificent Stock Exchange and the 12th century Porto Cathedral. It is also interesting to view the streets that link Praça da Riberia with the numerous tiled houses. All these attractions are open daily for viewing them at absolutely no charge.
Avenida dos Aliandos, Praca da Batalha and Mercado do Bolhao Attractions
Starting with the Avenida dos Aliandos, this attraction is a sight to reckon with especially with its Parisian appearance and style. Local public transport owes a lot to the central square of the avenue. However, these are not his major attractions as compared to the likes of the Torre dos Clerigos tower and the Igreja dos Clerigos church that are found uphill. The Torre dos Clerigos tower in particular rises over 75 meters (225 steps) above the ground and from its top, one can get very wonderful views of the cityscape of Porto. The Mercado do Bolhao is found to the east of Avenida dos Aliandos. This particular market is significant for its vibrancy where you will find many products such as meat, local cheese, flowers and so on. It operates from Monday through to Friday. Adjacent to the market is Rua Santa Catarina. This is also another shopping alternative to your list of choices. Moving southwards, you come across the Praca da Batalha. Here, visitors are met by the amazing site of the Igreja de Santo Iidefonso church and also the Nacional Sao Joao. This historical site has its history dating all the way back to 1794. The landmark incorporates two major functions under one building, and that is servicing as a national theatre as well as an opera house. Admission to all this attractions is free daily.
The Cordoaria Attractions
Jardim Cordoaria is found further uphill and is a much greener attraction area with attractions such as the Palatial Hospital Geral de Santo antonio, the Igreja do Carmo church that is found on the Praca Gomes Teixeira and Judiara which is a former Jewish quarter. Also, one can access these attractions daily without any admission fee.
Boavista and Western Porto Attractions
The first attraction that meets your eye is the Praca de Mousinho vde Albuquerque. This large roundabout is not only a spectacular site but also serves a geographical function of the separating the ‘old’ and the ‘new’ parts of Porto city. At this point, you will again come across the Casa da Musica, which a very popular hall for those who like concerts. There are more attractions some 3 kilometers or so further west of Casa da Musica. There is the peaceful Parque de Sarralves haven that stretches 45 acres in area full of fountains. Try paying these attractions a visit any day free of charge.
From Palacio de Cristal to Foz do Duoro Tourist Attractions
50 years ago, the Crystal Palace (or Palacio de Cristal) which was a very old and spectacular building in the Jardim do Palacio de Cristal Gardens was demolished and in its place the Pavilion Rosa Mota erected. It is a magnificent 30 metre high sports stadium built in a dome shape design with a capacity of over 4,500 spectators. The pavilion is a major tourist attraction due to the many events it hosts every year, including sports events, concerts, conventions, exhibitions, theatrical events and so much more. It is open daily to tourists without any admission fee attachments.
Vila Nova de Gaia (Gaia) Tourist Attractions
Vila Nova de Gaia is adjacent to Porto and hence considered a suburb despite being a separate municipality. Some magnificent bridges across River Duoro connect the city with Porto. The city turns livelier especially at night due to the glitzy clubs and the many restaurants. A spectacular sight of the city are the neon signs that brighten it up at night, which locals consider it to be a Portuguese version of Las Vegas. The attractions are open daily for tourists to view.
