O Oporto City Tour (by car)

Oporto is a romantic city, but also the toughest in the north. This cobblestone city is characterized by a mix of architectural styles and has attracted the attention of thousands and thousands of curious tourists. In Oporto each cobblestone is a story keeper, in which each page is a mystery.

Drive towards the longest street in the city, Boavista Avenue (Avenida da Boavista) and cross the city square of the same name (Boavista Square – Praça da Boavista). The Boavista Square is home to a monument in honor of the victory of the Portuguese army over Napoleon and the French army, and the Music House (Casa da Música), a modern and beautiful building.The next stop is the satellite town of Matosinhos with its wonderful views of the ocean. Drive past the Cheese Castle (Castelo do Queijo) also known as Forte de São Francisco Xavier and the famous promenade of Vila Nova de Gaia´s old quarter. In Oporto´s historical centre, pass by “Alfandega” and observe past customs.

In Oporto´s historic district we will visit attractions such as the Se Cathedral (XII century) with its massive altar of chased silver, and the Bishop’s Palace (Palácio do Bispo) with its 60-foot high facade – a masterpiece of the Portuguese Baroque architecture of the XVIII century. Charming old streets will lead us to the popular, Ribeiro promenade. It was here, in the past where the first caravels left these shores in route to discover the new world. You can choose to go on a one hour cruise through the Douro River, which passes under six bridges that connects Oporto the satellite city of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Cross the D. Luis I bridge (ponte de D. Luís I), project of the famous Eiffel, to the other side of the Douro river (Rio Douro) where the famous cellar of stored and aged port are located. We will visit one of these cellars and, of course, taste some port – the masterpiece of Portuguese winemaking. Following the wine tasting, head to the Prince Henry the Navigator Square (Praça do Infante D. Henriques). Here you encounter the pompous Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa) comfortably settled, a monument in honor of Prince Henry the Navigator and the Church of St. Francis (Igreja de São Francisco) – the only religious building in the city, built in Gothic style and one of the most beautiful of the Iberian Peninsula. We will then proceed to the Rua das Flores, where the beautiful Church of Mercy (Igreja da Misericordia), with its severval stunning gold and silver pieces, is located. This church was built in the 16th century and has a mix of architectural styles and influences, combining Renaissance and Gothic elements.

The next stop our route – São Bento Train Station (estação ferroviária de São Bento), famous for its magnificent tile (azulejo) panels depicting scenes of the history of Portugal. Walk towards the Liberty Square (Praça da Liberdade). In the middle of the square is a monument dedicated to King Peter IV (a monarch closely linked to Oporto). Stop at the magnificent Church of the Clerics (Igreja dos Clérigos) with its famous 76-meter bell tower, the Clerics Tower (Torre dos Clérigos) – a symbol of the city of Oporto.

Nearby is one of the most beautiful bookstores of the world – “Lello and brother.” The visit is worth the while.

Facing the University building take a minute and admire the enchanting Four Lions fountain and and the charming churches in the surroundings such as the Carmo Church (Igreja do Carmo) and its spectacular facade covered with stunning tile (azulejo) panel.

Take a stroll down the main shopping street, Rua Santa Catarina, where all the most fashionable and elegant shops of northern Portugal are located. Here we suggest you visit the famous “Majestic” cafe and have fun contemplating the interior of this historic café while enjoying a cup of invigorating coffee.

Entrance fees to museums are not included.