{"id":673439,"date":"2022-11-02T15:39:00","date_gmt":"2022-11-02T12:39:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tourism.com.de\/?p=673439"},"modified":"2024-04-21T03:36:52","modified_gmt":"2024-04-21T00:36:52","slug":"what-to-see-in-porto-in-1-day-on-your-own-route-photo-description-map","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tourism.com.de\/en\/what-to-see-in-porto-in-1-day-on-your-own-route-photo-description-map\/","title":{"rendered":"What to see in Porto in 1 day on your own – route, photo, description, map"},"content":{"rendered":"

On the picturesque hills above the mouth of the Douro River is the northern capital and pearl of Portugal – Porto. This granite, monumental and original city<\/a> attracts a conside<\/a>rable number of tour<\/a>ists with its special colorful atmosphere. Its historic center<\/a> has received UNESCO World<\/a> Heritage status. The abundance and variety of attractions<\/a> is amazing. They can be found literally at every turn. Cobbled winding streets and narrow quarters, picturesque embankments and park complexes, grandiose bridge<\/a>s and ancient buildings, medieval cathedral<\/a>s and expressive architectural monuments – all this is of genuine interest to travel<\/a>ers from all over the world. Tiled panels, luxurious interiors of temples and houses with colorful facades leave indelible impressions. What to see<\/a> in Porto in 1 day on your own<\/a>? The answer to this difficult question will allow you to correctly allocate precious time so as not to lose sight of significant places in the city<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Arr\u00e1bida Bridge<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The Arr\u00e1bida Road and Pedestrian Bridge is one of six impressive structures spanning the beautiful Douro River. Its opening took place in 1963. Concrete<\/a> pillars support one majestic arched span, the length of which is 270 meters. The object acts as a landmark and an important transport<\/a> artery. The bridge has four traffic lanes.<\/p>\n

As part<\/a> of an excursion group, tourists<\/a> will have the opportunity to make a breathtaking climb up the steep steps of the arch of the Arr\u00e1bida Bridge. There are 262 steps to overcome. The staircase goes in an arc to a height of 65 meters above the water. The ascent and descent is considered to be quite an extreme event, therefore expedition members only over 12 years old are allowed. The observation deck offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city and its surroundings from an unusual angle.<\/p>\n

Book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel for 1 760 RUB<\/a><\/p>\n

crystal palace<\/a> park<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The landscape park of the Crystal Palace enjoys constant popularity among guests and residents of the second largest Portuguese city. The picturesque place has the necessary attributes that allow visit<\/a>ors to enjoy a calm and measured walk. The territory of the park complex is decorated with winding paths, well-groomed green lawns, sprawling trees, beautiful fountains, flower beds with outlandish flowers and crystal-clear ponds.<\/p>\n

Of particular interest<\/a> are numerous ancient sculptural compositions and installations. A variety of allegorical monuments made in modern and antique styles will appear before the gaze of vacation<\/a>ers. Pines, camellias, beeches, rhododendrons and many other exotic plants create a romantic atmosphere. Peacocks walk imposingly along the neat paths. Benches are placed under the lush crowns of trees.<\/p>\n

On the site of the former Crystal Palace, around which a park was laid out in 1851, a majestic multifunctional pavilion was erected. The building is a huge hemispherical structure in plan. It hosts cultural events, music concerts and sports competitions.<\/p>\n

Cordoaria Park<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Tourists<\/a> should include a visit to Cordoaria Park in their day trip<\/a> program. It is located<\/a> in the historic quarter, close to the main attractions<\/a> of the city. The green square was founded on the territory where there used to be a workshop for the production of ropes and ropes. In the middle of the 19th century, the small garden became a favorite rest<\/a>ing place for the townspeople.<\/p>\n

A distinctive feature of this cozy garden, which has the shape of a triangle, are age-old tall plane<\/a> trees with dense foliage, sprawling branches of an unusual shape. Fancy powerful thick trunks taper sharply upwards, which visually resemble giant bottles. Under the crowns of huge trees, you can hide from the scorching sun, as well as enjoy the silence of a secluded corner.<\/p>\n

A considerable number of sculptural compositions are installed throughout the park, among which it is worth paying attention to an entertaining series of creations by the Spanish sculptor Jo\u00e3o Minosh. Monuments are placed along the plane tree alley, representing the stands of the auditoriums with several figures of men with laughing faces.<\/p>\n

Clerigos tower<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

For many decades, the majestic Clerigos Tower has served as a significant and symbolic decoration of the city square. The six-storey building in the late Baroque style was erected in the middle of the 18th century. The amazing building rushes up to 76 meters. The architectural landmark is the bell tower of the church of the same name. For a long time, the tower acted as a kind of landmark for merchant ships heading to the harbor.<\/p>\n

The magnificent historical object is richly decorated with granite slabs, cornices, sculptures, balustrades and relief car<\/a>vings. The rectangular facade of the tall building is crowned with a small dome with a Christian cross. The inner space of the building is occupied by a narrow spiral staircase leading to the observation deck. Having overcome 225 steps, tour<\/a>ists will discover a delightful view of the architectural ensemble, tiled roofs of houses, quarters, squares and the river coast.<\/p>\n

Lello Bookstore<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Porto is home to one of the most famous and original bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello. Its history<\/a> dates back to the end of the 19th century. The historic Neo-Gothic building is decorated with patterned ornaments, crenellations and pinnacles. Its facade depicts the figures of two women, symbolizing the images of science and art.<\/p>\n

The store is famous for its amazingly luxurious interiors. Having crossed the threshold of a book boutique, visitors find themselves as if in a magic<\/a>al world of a fairy tale. The walls and vaults are richly lined with intricate openwork wood carvings. Noteworthy is the picturesque stained-glass ceiling, through which daylight of a golden hue passes. In the interior decoration, a curved staircase with bright red steps and intricately carved railings stands out. High bookshelves rising from the floor to the ceiling are finished with curly arches. Here you can buy fiction and scientific literature of both Portuguese and foreign authors.<\/p>\n

There is a cafe on the second floor. Over a cup of fragrant coffee, it is most convenient for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the decorative elements of the interior of the room. The store is always filled to capacity with inquisitive people. Lello's bookshop has gained extraordinary popularity since the release of the first Harry Potter film. It was this place that inspired JK Rowling to create a fairy tale about young wizards. The writer lived for several years in Porto, where she taught English at one of the local schools. She was a frequent visitor to this store.<\/p>\n

City Hall of Porto<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The City Hall deservedly belongs to the most photo<\/a>genic architectural monuments of the north<\/a>ern capital. The monumental building, made of granite and marble, harmoniously fits into the appearance of the central Freedom Square. The construction of the six-storey building was started in 1920 and stretched for a quarter of a century. The created project was repeatedly subjected to numerous changes by the chief architect K. Ramush.<\/p>\n

On the main facade of the town hall you can see numerous exquisite sculptures, intricate ornaments and coats of arms. Atlantes and caryatids seem to support the architectural elements of the structure. The statue<\/a>s represent the main activities for which the inhabitants of Portugal<\/a> have been famous for<\/a> centuries: navigation, winemaking, industry and various crafts. Columns, arches, as well as rectangular, oval and round window openings give the building a solemn appearance.<\/p>\n

The town hall is crowned with a high tower with chimes. In the interior decoration, several luxurious halls stand out for city meetings and ceremonial events. Curious tourists can only get acquainted with the main hall, which attracts attention with its ceiling paintings.<\/p>\n

Sao Bento Station<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

In the heart of the “northern capital” of Portugal is the Sao Bento railway station. The historic building with a mansard roof and a richly decorated stone facade is rightfully considered one of the expressive sights<\/a> of the city. The first stone of the future station building was laid at the end of the 19th century on the site of a dilapidated and abandoned monastery of S\u00e3o Bento de Ave Maria. The grandiose architectural masterpiece in the French neoclassical style receives most of the suburban train<\/a>s and electric trains.<\/p>\n

Behind the entrance doors of the building, magnificent interior decoration opens up, bewitching numerous tourists. The walls of the lobby are lined with the famous Portuguese azulejo. The original ceramic tiles create picturesque paintings in a blue and white palette. They depict the most important historical episodes in the development<\/a> of Portugal, the country's landscapes, battle scenes, the exploits of kings, sailors and knights, as well as the life of peasants and artisans. High ceiling with stucco, marble floor and large stained glass windows perfectly complement the surroundings of the room.<\/p>\n

Bishops' Palace<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

One of the oldest architectural monuments of Porto is the Bishop's Palace. Its construction was carried out in the XII-XIII centuries. During its centuries-old history<\/a>, the residence of the Portuguese clergy has been repeatedly rebuilt and expanded. The palace acquired its modern look as a result of a large-scale reconstruction carried out in the 18th century. Currently, the building belongs to the state and is not used as a residence.<\/p>\n

The palace is a rectangle in plan, forming a courtyard. The snow-white facade is decorated with three rows of windows with figured architraves, oval borders and wrought iron French balconies. The central arched portal is made of dark granite. The foyer stands out in the interiors of the palace. The walls and ceiling are decorated with stucco, medallions and frescoes. Daylight enters through the glass dome.<\/p>\n

The monumental main staircase with decorative railings and statues is divided into two flights that lead to the main halls. The premises exhibit collections of antique carved furniture, rare ceramic jewelry, tapestries from Flanders, silver and bronze utensils. Of interest is the painting gallery, as well as the Throne Room, where the inaugurations of bishops took place.<\/p>\n

Se Cathedral<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

At the top of the Pena Ventosa hill rises an iconic religious building and a national treasure for all of Portugal – the Cathedral of Se. The temple<\/a> outwardly resembles a fortress with massive impregnable battlements and loopholes. The masterpiece of the Romanesque style of architecture was erected in the 12th century. In this shrine, Portuguese kings were married, and Prince Henry the Navigator, a well-known organizer and sponsor of sea<\/a> expeditions, was also baptized.<\/p>\n

On both sides of the central lead-gray facade, square towers topped with domes and balustrades rise up. Above the baroque portal is a round rose window, divided by a figured cover in the form of a flower. An extended covered gallery was attached to the northern part of the cathedral, the inner walls of which are lined with azulejo tiles. Ceramic tiles make up picturesque panels depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.<\/p>\n

The interior of the temple is modest in decoration. The gloomy surroundings correspond to the Medieval era. Visitors will see<\/a> high vaulted ceilings, monumental gray columns, statues of saints and paintings in gilded frames. The altar deserves attention, the production of which took 800 kg of silver.<\/p>\n

Bayrru-da-Se<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

After exploring and visiting the S\u00e9 Cathedral, tourists can take a walk through the original and colorful Bairro da S\u00e9 quarter. A labyrinth of narrow streets stretches right under the majestic temple. On steep slopes among cozy and bizarrely intricate alleys, there are low houses, closely pressed to each other. Here live the indigenous people of Porto.<\/p>\n

Stairs are reminiscent of walkways. Linen is hung everywhere, children<\/a> frolic carelessly nearby, in some places roosters sing, inviting cries of fishmongers are heard, artisans knock with their hammers. There is a feeling that the inhabitants of the area<\/a> never leave their homes.<\/p>\n

Ribeira<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

On a high, steep rocky slope along the Douro River lies the interesting<\/a> Ribeira quarter. It is included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list<\/a>, which attracts many travel<\/a>ers from all over the world. A leisurely walk along Ribeira will allow travelers to feel the original atmosphere of the oldest streets of the city. The area is famous for the abundance of houses with picturesque multi-colored facades. They are literally stuck on each other and climb up the hill. On the narrow cobbled streets you can see many buildings, colorfully decorated with azulejo ceramic tiles. Under the foundations of some houses, stones laid by the ancient Romans are guessed. This is literally an open-air museum of Portuguese culture.<\/p>\n

It is impossible to pass by the waterfront of the quarter, along which cozy cafes, taverns and eateries stretch. Among the sights<\/a> of Ribeira, one should highlight the sculpture of John the Baptist and the fountain in the form of a huge bronze cube.<\/p>\n

Prince's house<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The Prince's House is usually called the historic building where the heir to the royal throne, Infante Heinrich, was born. His name is inextricably linked with the organization and financing of sea expeditions. The ancient building, built in the 14th century, was the only mansion in which representatives of the royal family could stay during their official visits to Porto. During its history<\/a>, the building managed to visit customs, a mint and a haven for workers. The modern appearance of the building is the result of extensive restoration work carried out in 1677.<\/p>\n

The three-story Prince's House has a museum filled with unique<\/a> artifacts. On public display are ceramic tiles, Roman mosaics, dioramas of a medieval city, coins, various goods, samples of pottery and many other exhibits.<\/p>\n

Church of Saint Francis<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

In the historic center<\/a> of the city is one of the most beautiful architectural masterpieces of Portugal – the Church of St. Francis. The construction of the temple dates back to 1233. Due to numerous disagreements between religious figures, the construction of the shrine was delayed until 1425. The strict gray stone facade of the building is decorated in the Gothic style with Baroque elements. The main dominant of the exterior is a huge rose window. The western portal is framed by ornate pillars and adorned with a granite statue of Saint Francis. The southern gate is decorated with a pointed arch with archivolts and a triangular pediment with a pentagram.<\/p>\n

The rather modest external appearance of the church gave way to the dazzling luxury of the interior decoration. The vaulted ceilings, walls, altars, columns, arches, and railings are lavishly clad in elaborate woodwork covered in gold leaf. Patterned and intricate carved details are represented by ornaments in the form of flowers, bunches of grapes, angels, animals and birds. The pearl of the church is the family tree of Jesus Christ, made of multi-colored wood. The sculptural composition consists of twelve figures of the kings of the Jews. The group of statues located on the branches of a tree is crowned by the Madonna and Child.<\/p>\n

Fortress of Fernandina<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The medieval fortress, named after the King of Portugal Fernandino, was a grandiose defensive structure. The fortification structure consisted of 30 towers and served to protect the city from external attacks by enemies and conquerors. The length of powerful high walls made of stone and granite was more than 3,000 meters. In the 18th century, the fortress lost its most important defensive function and fell into disrepair.<\/p>\n

To date, fragments of walls with battlements and loopholes have been preserved. A fairly long stretch of the medieval structure runs along the hillside to the Douro River. There is a funicular line nearby. Tourists can find the entrance to the inner side of the wall, which is hidden in the courtyard in the middle of a wonderful garden with orange trees. From the height of the fortress tower, you can enjoy an amazing panoramic view of both banks of the river and the famous bridge named after Luis I.<\/p>\n

Exchange Palace<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The Exchange Palace is included in the list<\/a> of architectural monuments that are recommended to be seen and visited by inquisitive guests of Porto. A beautiful monumental neoclassical building was erected in the 19th century. Representatives of the commercial elite of Portugal and foreign countries<\/a> met in the palace. It became a kind of business center of the country, where economic decisions were made and commercial negotiations took place.<\/p>\n

The imposing symmetrical rectangular building is decorated with a massive portico with a pediment, a clock tower and a three-arched portal. The appearance of the palace is not able to convey the share of the luxury that reigns in its interiors. Noteworthy is the inner Court of Nations, crowned with an octagonal glass dome with metal panels. On its vaults you can see images of the coats of arms of various countries with which Portugal maintained commercial relations.<\/p>\n

A monumental marble staircase leads visitors to the halls, which amaze the audience with the pomposity of the interior decoration. Of interest are old paintings, fine sculptures, stained glass, wooden decorative elements, stucco, columns, corrugated pilasters, floral ornaments, mosaics, ceiling frescoes and carved antique furniture. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the halls of the palace as part of an excursion<\/a> group.<\/p>\n

Promenade of Cais da Ribeira<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The magnificent and colorful promenade of Cais da Ribeira captivates travel<\/a>ers at first sight. It stretches along the southern bank of the Douro River. A popular and lively tourist destination, it is made up of narrow streets and alleyways lined with multi-coloured houses. Many historic buildings are clad in azulejo ceramic tiles. Taverns, cafes and restaurants with cozy terraces offer visitors to taste traditional Portuguese sea<\/a>food dishes.<\/p>\n

Old boats and small ships are moored to the pier. Several centuries ago, they served to transport port wine from nearby villages to the city. Today, on these ships, tourists can go on an exciting river trip to admire the bridges and admire the color palette of the buildings.<\/p>\n

Funicular<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The funicular in Porto is one of the most attractive means of transportation for travelers. It is an electric lift that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The original line of the road was laid at the end of the 19th century. After several years of service, an accident occurred, after which the funicular ceased to function. Its restoration was carried out only in 2004.<\/p>\n

A modern lift equipped with an automatic mechanism plays an important transport role. It links the Ribeira promenade with the Batalha area. The difference in height between the multi-tiered quarters reaches 60 meters. If walking<\/a> down winding steep stairs will bring pleasure to vacation<\/a>ers, then the return trip may not cause such impressions. Therefore, many tourists prefer to use the funicular. The lower station is located under the Luis bridge.<\/p>\n

A car with transparent walls and a capacity of up to 25 people overcomes the track at an angle of 45 \u00b0 along a single-track rail section. The length of the road is 281 meters, of which 90 meters the funicular passes through the tunnel. The journey takes about 3 minutes. During the movement of the carriage, passengers enjoy colorful panoramic views of the river, the Ribeira marina, the grandiose construction of the Luis I bridge.<\/p>\n

Ponty di Don Luis Bridge I<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Ponti di Don Luis I is a road, pedestrian and railway bridge, which is one of the symbols of the northern capital. The two-tier structure is supported by a majestic steel openwork arc. The length of the arched span is more than 170 meters. The project for the construction of an architectural landmark belongs to the Belgian engineer T. Seyrig, a student of the famous G. Eiffel. The bridge, built in 1886, is named after the Portuguese king Luis I. The monarch ruled the country at the time the construction was completed.
\nPonti di Don Luis I consists of a lower (for cars) and an upper (for light rail) level. There are walking paths on both tiers, which gives travelers the opportunity to see completely diverse and amazing panoramas of the city. From a height of 45 meters, a picturesque picture opens up of the ancient architectural ensemble, the bay of the Dora River, picturesque quarters, embankments, rocky slopes and the surroundings of the northern capital of Portugal. The lower tier of the bridge links the Ribeira area with the wine warehouses of the town of Vila Nova de Gaia.<\/p>\n

You can walk along the bridge on your own<\/a> or with a professional guide<\/a>. Pedestrians need to be very careful not to get hit by moving vehicles. There are no large fences separating the roadway from the sidewalk.<\/p>\n

Monastery of the Serra do Pilar<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The former monastery of Serra di Pilar, which belonged to the Order of St. Augustine, is a valuable historical monument of architecture in Portugal. Built in the 16th century on the initiative of King John III, it is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List<\/a>. Serra de Pilar is located on a high mountain in the neighboring town of Vila Nova de Gaia, which can be reached on foot via a bridge over the river.<\/p>\n

The territory of the abbey offers a unique panoramic view of the entire city, thanks to which the monastery occupied an important military strategic importance. At the beginning of the 19th century, it was turned into a fortification with barracks. It was here that the future field marshal and hero of the Battle of Waterloo, the Earl of Wellington, developed a plan for the campaign of the British army against the Napoleonic troops.<\/p>\n

The ensemble of buildings of the monastery attracts the attention of the covered galleries and the church with a round foundation. Tourists should see the interior of the shrine, which is dominated by gold engravings, sculptures of saints and an altar with magnificent carvings and twisted columns.<\/p>\n

Sad Morro<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

At the top of a hill in Vila Nova de Gaia, at the foot of the Serra do Pilar monastery complex, there is a small and cozy Morro Garden. This is a favorite place for citizens and tourists to admire the incredible beauty of the sunset. From here you can see the historical quarters of Porto, its landscapes and the banks of the Dora River.<\/p>\n

The tiered garden features tall, sprawling palm trees, deciduous trees and lush shrubs. The slope of the hill is decorated with parapets in the form of an amphitheatre. Morro Park provides vacationers with the opportunity to spend time measuredly after exciting walks and exploring the sights<\/a> of the city. They can have a picnic on the green lawn, refresh themselves with street food from cafe-vans with a mobile kitchen, listen to the incendiary melodies of musical groups.<\/p>\n

Boulders of various sizes attract attention, which are used as fences, decorations and partitions between well-groomed flower alleys. Improvised caves were assembled from huge stones, where you can take a photo<\/a> session.<\/p>\n

Porto itinerary<\/a> for 1 day on the map<\/h2>\n