Guidebook for Porto

Rita E Tiago
Guidebook for Porto

Arts & Culture

The architectural plans for the Serralves Museum were first drawn up in 1991 by the architect Alvaro Siza. The new building was finally inaugurated in 1999, harmoniously integrated within the surrounding urban area and the pre-existing spaces of the gardens of the Park and Villa. A visit to the Museum always offers much more than the exhibitions alone. It’s also an opportunity to discover the particularities of each space within this architectural work, that has a strong organizational structure and great flexibility and transformational capacity, enabling it to respond to the diversity and unpredictability of the contemporary art works on display. Originally conceived as a private residence, the Serralves Villa and the surrounding Park were commissioned by the 2nd Count of Vizela, Carlos Alberto Cabral (1895−1968), on the grounds of his family’s former summer residence on the outskirts of Porto. Designed and constructed between 1925 and 1944, the Villa is considered the most notable example of an Art Deco building in Portugal. In 1996 it was classified as a ‘Building of Public Interest’. In 2012, the ensemble of the architectural and natural heritage of the Serralves Foundation was accorded the status of National Monument. Authorship of the Villa may be attributed, with a certain degree of care, to the French architect Charles Siclis (1889−1944), who played a decisive role in the project’s overall design, and José Marques da Silva (1869−1947), responsible for Porto’s São Bento railway station and the São João Theatre, who developed, modified and implemented it.
897 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (Fundación de Serralves)
210 R. Dom João de Castro
897 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The architectural plans for the Serralves Museum were first drawn up in 1991 by the architect Alvaro Siza. The new building was finally inaugurated in 1999, harmoniously integrated within the surrounding urban area and the pre-existing spaces of the gardens of the Park and Villa. A visit to the Museum always offers much more than the exhibitions alone. It’s also an opportunity to discover the particularities of each space within this architectural work, that has a strong organizational structure and great flexibility and transformational capacity, enabling it to respond to the diversity and unpredictability of the contemporary art works on display. Originally conceived as a private residence, the Serralves Villa and the surrounding Park were commissioned by the 2nd Count of Vizela, Carlos Alberto Cabral (1895−1968), on the grounds of his family’s former summer residence on the outskirts of Porto. Designed and constructed between 1925 and 1944, the Villa is considered the most notable example of an Art Deco building in Portugal. In 1996 it was classified as a ‘Building of Public Interest’. In 2012, the ensemble of the architectural and natural heritage of the Serralves Foundation was accorded the status of National Monument. Authorship of the Villa may be attributed, with a certain degree of care, to the French architect Charles Siclis (1889−1944), who played a decisive role in the project’s overall design, and José Marques da Silva (1869−1947), responsible for Porto’s São Bento railway station and the São João Theatre, who developed, modified and implemented it.
The Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis was the country’s first public art museum. Founded in 1833 under the aegis of Liberalism, it was created to receive the confiscated property of the dissolved monasteries both in Porto and those of S. Martinho de Tibães and Santa Cruz de Coimbra in its Episcopal See. The expoiliation occurred during the civil war in which the Liberals, led by the regent D. Pedro, Duke of Bragança, opposed the absolutism of D. Miguel. Designated as the Museu Portuense de Pinturas e Estampas it was established in the Mosteiro de St.º António, in the eastern part of the city (Jardim de S. Lázaro), under the direction of the painter João Baptista Ribeiro. It followed an innovative cultural and educational program, supporting the artists of the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes and promoting art through public exhibitions. Its status was confirmed by D. Maria II in 1836 within the public education reforms undertaken by her minister, Passos Manuel. In 1839 the Museum collection passed into the hands of the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes, which led the relationship between the museum and 19th-century art-teaching to be reinvigorated. The S. Lázaro gallery contributed by organizing triennial exhibitions, which brought painting and sculpture in Porto together during the 1800s. This collection forms one of the most consistent parts of the collection, comprising portraits, daily life, and naturalistic landscape. The Museu Soares dos Reis was born in 1911 out of institutional reforms of the Republic whose decentralized museum policy tended towards specialization. It was named after the first State scholar in sculpture from the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes, António Soares dos Reis, the celebrated author of the work “The Exile”, Heritage conservation gained greater significance under the Estado Novo and the role of the museum as guardian of the collective memory was accentuated in the interests of a strong and cohesive nation. It was for these reasons that in 1932 the century-old museum acquired the status of a National Museum, providing it with the independence to pursue its academic vocation and expand its patrimony. Its installation in the Palácio dos Carrancas in 1940, at that time under the direction of Vasco Valente, is part of the Museum’s recent history. The neoclassical building was well adapted to the trend in museums towards overhead illumination. The art galleries were fitted with conservation equipment, while the exhibition environment on the main floor evoked the style of the times. This phase coincided with the National Commemorations of 1940 whose program envisaged exhibitions of great patriotic celebration. The inauguration of the exhibition “The Work of Soares dos Reis” marked the beginning of an important stage in the museum’s history, highlighting the culture of Porto. Finally, in 1942 the collections of the extinct Museu Municipal do Porto were deposited in the Museum, whose extremely varied sections, ranging from painting to the decorative arts and including stonework and archaeology, conferred a more diverse nature on the classical museum of Fine Arts. As the collection became structured, it promoted the study and dissemination of the collections and established new cultural practices, with prominence for temporary exhibitions and the edition of the magazine “Museu” by the Círculo Dr. José de Figueiredo. In the 1950s, the tendency of the Museu Nacional do Soares dos Reis was to attract new collections, orientated by the quest for a certain modernity and demonstrated by the acquisition of works by contemporary artists, followers of artistic currents still being defined. This trend was due in large part to the influence of the sculptor Salvador Barata Feyo, professor of sculpture at the Escola de Belas Artes do Porto and the Museum’s interim director between 1950 and 1961. From the 1960s to the present day efforts have been made to strengthen the relationship with the public. This period has been marked by the realization of innovative experiences in the domain of cultural diffusion, through temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
533 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis
44 R. de Dom Manuel II
533 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis was the country’s first public art museum. Founded in 1833 under the aegis of Liberalism, it was created to receive the confiscated property of the dissolved monasteries both in Porto and those of S. Martinho de Tibães and Santa Cruz de Coimbra in its Episcopal See. The expoiliation occurred during the civil war in which the Liberals, led by the regent D. Pedro, Duke of Bragança, opposed the absolutism of D. Miguel. Designated as the Museu Portuense de Pinturas e Estampas it was established in the Mosteiro de St.º António, in the eastern part of the city (Jardim de S. Lázaro), under the direction of the painter João Baptista Ribeiro. It followed an innovative cultural and educational program, supporting the artists of the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes and promoting art through public exhibitions. Its status was confirmed by D. Maria II in 1836 within the public education reforms undertaken by her minister, Passos Manuel. In 1839 the Museum collection passed into the hands of the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes, which led the relationship between the museum and 19th-century art-teaching to be reinvigorated. The S. Lázaro gallery contributed by organizing triennial exhibitions, which brought painting and sculpture in Porto together during the 1800s. This collection forms one of the most consistent parts of the collection, comprising portraits, daily life, and naturalistic landscape. The Museu Soares dos Reis was born in 1911 out of institutional reforms of the Republic whose decentralized museum policy tended towards specialization. It was named after the first State scholar in sculpture from the Academia Portuense de Belas Artes, António Soares dos Reis, the celebrated author of the work “The Exile”, Heritage conservation gained greater significance under the Estado Novo and the role of the museum as guardian of the collective memory was accentuated in the interests of a strong and cohesive nation. It was for these reasons that in 1932 the century-old museum acquired the status of a National Museum, providing it with the independence to pursue its academic vocation and expand its patrimony. Its installation in the Palácio dos Carrancas in 1940, at that time under the direction of Vasco Valente, is part of the Museum’s recent history. The neoclassical building was well adapted to the trend in museums towards overhead illumination. The art galleries were fitted with conservation equipment, while the exhibition environment on the main floor evoked the style of the times. This phase coincided with the National Commemorations of 1940 whose program envisaged exhibitions of great patriotic celebration. The inauguration of the exhibition “The Work of Soares dos Reis” marked the beginning of an important stage in the museum’s history, highlighting the culture of Porto. Finally, in 1942 the collections of the extinct Museu Municipal do Porto were deposited in the Museum, whose extremely varied sections, ranging from painting to the decorative arts and including stonework and archaeology, conferred a more diverse nature on the classical museum of Fine Arts. As the collection became structured, it promoted the study and dissemination of the collections and established new cultural practices, with prominence for temporary exhibitions and the edition of the magazine “Museu” by the Círculo Dr. José de Figueiredo. In the 1950s, the tendency of the Museu Nacional do Soares dos Reis was to attract new collections, orientated by the quest for a certain modernity and demonstrated by the acquisition of works by contemporary artists, followers of artistic currents still being defined. This trend was due in large part to the influence of the sculptor Salvador Barata Feyo, professor of sculpture at the Escola de Belas Artes do Porto and the Museum’s interim director between 1950 and 1961. From the 1960s to the present day efforts have been made to strengthen the relationship with the public. This period has been marked by the realization of innovative experiences in the domain of cultural diffusion, through temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
No words to describe the bookshop ( Yes, it is a bookshop). The Lello Bookshop (Portuguese: Livraria Lello, also known as Livraria Chardron) in Porto’s city center is one of the most magnificent book shops one can imagine. In fact, it is constantly listed in the top bookstores in the world. In 2010, Lonely Planet named Livraria Lello the “Third Best Bookstore in the World!” The building first opened in 1906 and is designed by architect Xavier Esteves. The façade is a beautiful example of neo-gothic design, with just a hint of art nouveau. Step inside, and you have a wonderland of stunning design, intricate decoration, and volumes of books. From floor to ceiling ornate painted plaster provides a rich texture. Pillars are decorated with bronze bas-reliefs of Portuguese literature figures. Glass enclosed bookcases arch at the top. Tracks on the floor warn you to watch out for sliding ladders and carts used by the staff. Of course the centerpiece of this amazing shop is the beautifully curvaceous art nouveau staircase. The bright red steps invite you to ascend to the upper level. Here, many more books are available, and the interior design continues. A spectacular stained-glass skylight is fitted into the ceiling. The store’s motto of “vecus in labore” is written among the glass design. While you are upstairs, stop by the small coffee shop. Enjoy a selection of coffees, port wine, and cigars. Great place to escape from the world, or quietly read your new book.
1351 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Livraria Lello
144 R. das Carmelitas
1351 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
No words to describe the bookshop ( Yes, it is a bookshop). The Lello Bookshop (Portuguese: Livraria Lello, also known as Livraria Chardron) in Porto’s city center is one of the most magnificent book shops one can imagine. In fact, it is constantly listed in the top bookstores in the world. In 2010, Lonely Planet named Livraria Lello the “Third Best Bookstore in the World!” The building first opened in 1906 and is designed by architect Xavier Esteves. The façade is a beautiful example of neo-gothic design, with just a hint of art nouveau. Step inside, and you have a wonderland of stunning design, intricate decoration, and volumes of books. From floor to ceiling ornate painted plaster provides a rich texture. Pillars are decorated with bronze bas-reliefs of Portuguese literature figures. Glass enclosed bookcases arch at the top. Tracks on the floor warn you to watch out for sliding ladders and carts used by the staff. Of course the centerpiece of this amazing shop is the beautifully curvaceous art nouveau staircase. The bright red steps invite you to ascend to the upper level. Here, many more books are available, and the interior design continues. A spectacular stained-glass skylight is fitted into the ceiling. The store’s motto of “vecus in labore” is written among the glass design. While you are upstairs, stop by the small coffee shop. Enjoy a selection of coffees, port wine, and cigars. Great place to escape from the world, or quietly read your new book.
650 metres long, Rua de Miguel Bombarda is one of the cultural arteries of modern times. With several art galleries and new commercial trends, it has become an obligatory meeting point in the city for all those who enjoy art and innovation. New exhibits are regularly inaugurated simultaneously, with plenty of street entertainment, attracting art lovers, investors, artists, followers of alternative ways of life and many onlookers. The road also has restaurants, book shops and several retro-cool furniture shops, with alternative decoration, design, fashion, music and others.
318 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Rua de Miguel Bombarda
Rua de Miguel Bombarda
318 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
650 metres long, Rua de Miguel Bombarda is one of the cultural arteries of modern times. With several art galleries and new commercial trends, it has become an obligatory meeting point in the city for all those who enjoy art and innovation. New exhibits are regularly inaugurated simultaneously, with plenty of street entertainment, attracting art lovers, investors, artists, followers of alternative ways of life and many onlookers. The road also has restaurants, book shops and several retro-cool furniture shops, with alternative decoration, design, fashion, music and others.
Building designed by the Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, Casa da Música was inaugurated in 2005 and since then has become an icon of contemporary architecture, attracting visitors from many different parts of the world. The programming, which is both dynamic and innovative, ranges from classical music to the forefront of urban trends, benefiting greatly from their four resident groups: Symphony Orchestra, Remix Ensemble, Baroque Orchestra and Choir. The institution also plays an important role in education, promoting concerts, workshops and various activities for families with children and schools. Daily there are guided tours to the building, which has several bars and a restaurant located on the rooftop, with a magnificent view over the city. 50% discount on visits to Casa da Música
706 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Casa da Música
706 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Building designed by the Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, Casa da Música was inaugurated in 2005 and since then has become an icon of contemporary architecture, attracting visitors from many different parts of the world. The programming, which is both dynamic and innovative, ranges from classical music to the forefront of urban trends, benefiting greatly from their four resident groups: Symphony Orchestra, Remix Ensemble, Baroque Orchestra and Choir. The institution also plays an important role in education, promoting concerts, workshops and various activities for families with children and schools. Daily there are guided tours to the building, which has several bars and a restaurant located on the rooftop, with a magnificent view over the city. 50% discount on visits to Casa da Música
On the 17th December 1921, an establishment called Elite café opened for business in Porto. It was located in Santa Catarina street, a pedestrian walkway for shopping and for the finest members of society, then and now. The café enlightened the street with its Art Nouveau decoration, by architect João Queiroz. Inside, the scent of leather upholstery and varnished wood is joined by the magnificent vision of the plaster-decorated ceiling and of the endless Flemish mirrors, is an ensemble that marvels all senses. Add in the combination of marble and metal and it becomes truly exquisite. At the back of the café, nature rules in the conservatory, which connects Santa Catarina street to Passos Manuel street. The opening day, which has become a distant memory, has always been remembered by the city. Many have flocked to this part of the city to learn about the new building that has become to define Porto's architectural landscape. Appealing to intellectuals, bohemians and to the ladies of high society, when on a walkabout, would sit to drink tea or eat an ice cream. Although this was a successful opening, the name Elite carried a hint of monarchy that did not go well with the republican, bourgeois and chic atmosphere of Porto at the time. The glamorous cultural elite from Paris was a reference for Portuguese culture in those days. Hence the new name – Majestic – filled with all the charm of "La Belle Époque". Soon the most influential figures of Porto became regular customers of the café. José Régio, Teixeira de Pascoaes, and Leonardo Coimbra, among others, gave this establishment the necessary literary standing to foster vivid debates between public figures and soon-to-be-famous characters, on the most important political, social and philosophical issues of the time. In a place which personifies art, true artists felt at home. Students and professors from the School of Fine Arts of Porto joined with renowned artists such as Júlio Resende, to explore new artistic ways and motivations, to criticize established procedures, to conceptualize new forms, or simply to hear the general word of the day. There was not much difference in the general atmosphere of several other cafés of Porto - socially and culturally distinct groups exchanging arguments around a cup of coffee or a notorious cup of absinthe. During the sixties and keeping pace with a certain forced lethargy in cultural manifestations in Portugal, the Majestic Café began to go into a slumber of its own. It was a time of slow but steady decline. Soon the public of Porto became aware of the degradation to which Majestic had fallen victim to and thus on the 31th August 1983, the building was declared a "Public Interest Building". Two years later the new administration tried to find a way to once again reconcile the café with the city. However, time shows its inexorability, years of neglect have transformed the space into a gloomy place. The Café Majestic and all its history clamoring for recognition. In 1992, seventy-one years after its grand opening, the decision is made to give back to the Majestic the well-deserved pride of being one of the most beautiful cafés of Porto. On the 15th July 1994, the Majestic re-opened after two long years with all the glamour of the past. Today, when you enter the Majestic you can visit an exhibition, attend a cultural event or even appear on television as it is sometimes turned into an occasional television setting. The Majestic Café, designed by architect João Queiróz and inspired in the works of his master Marques da Silva, is still one of the most beautiful and meaningful examples of Art Nouveau in Porto. The building, implanted in the corner between Santa Catarina street and Passos Manuel street in 1916, included already a reference to establishments oriented towards the pedestrian street, as it is also mentioned in the reconstruction description. The striking marble facade, ornamented with beautiful floral elements and winding shapes, is a good reflection of the decorative style of that time. The main facade boasts two elegant columns and three rectangular windows. Over these, a pediment crowns the composition with the Majestic's initials. On each side, two amused little-boy figures seem to invite people in. Inside, Art Nouveau is all around in the rectangular-shaped room. The curved symmetry of the wooden frames and the decorative details attract the eyes of any keen observer. The walls are covered with large mirrors showing some aging signs, and holding a few lamps with elaborate metalwork; this creates a clever illusion that this space is larger than it actually is. Plaster sculptures of human faces, naked figures and flowers confirm the wavy sensual style - two rows of leather seats, which replaced the original ones made of red velvet, create a cozy and elegant perspective of depth. The winding contour of mirror frames, the lamplight, the marble details, and the smiling busts covering the walls up to the ceiling, give the café a golden and comfortable atmosphere that fosters relaxation and easy chatting. The Majestic breathes luxury, refinement and comfort. The inside patio, built-in 1925, is a retreat of delicate contours, with a staircase and a small balustrade, designed as a conservatory. Under the supervision of master Pedro Mendes da Silva, this corner of the café was a symbol of a new era for Majestic. A bar was built and connected to the café through a staircase, thus allowing the opening of another entrance in Passos Manuel street, "...where Port wine would be sold. This is the reason why a regional style of Portuguese architecture was chosen, not only for the bar but also for the outside wall". The new facade was designed and built in a different style from the international interiors of the café - this new space, without totally clashing with the previously existing one, presented a more rural style representing what Raul Lino would later call the casa portuguesa (traditional Portuguese house). That same year, the Majestic served the tastes of a varied clientele. Once again architect João Queiróz was called in to design a new modest, yet gracious shop window in the restored wall, overlooking Passos Manuel street used to sell tobacco and rappee. A year later, in 1926, this area was enlarged and leased to Tinoco & Irmãos Company and was transformed into a "small cabinet (...) selling tobacco". In 1927, with new times and new ways ahead, the bar was expanded to "provide and serve beer in the existing terrace". This terrace area contains several moods. From the pure and architectural style of the entrance, reflecting the architect's Beaux Arts roots, we pass on to the decorative style garden crowning the architectural structures and ending up in a Ionian doorway, that makes the connection with the outside facade, including large, transparent and sensual spiral shells, in the typically modern style, which anticipate the feminine sculptures on the outside. The leafy and luminous conservatory is currently used in the summer for music concerts, playing the role of Majestic's third cultural space. It may be hard to choose between this and the grand piano area inside the café or the art exhibitions that take place in the ground floor, previously occupied by the pool tables. It was also in this year of 1927 that, under the Majestic Café Society, the Pavillon Majestic was inaugurated, a removable brewery, located in front of Rua do Crasto, where later was the 'Bar do Molhe', and where Pizza Hut is nowadays. In 1992, under the auspices of the Barrias family, the café closed down for a refurbishing project to be carried out under the supervision of architect Teresa Mano Mendes Pacheco. In 1994, after the interior floors were replaced and the original furniture was restored, the Majestic reopened for business. Some photographs found by Fernando Barrias conveyed the original spirit of this place and allowed its luminous past to be sensitively reproduced in the present. The numerous awards and international recognition - "Special Award Coffee Cream" (1999), "Silver Medal for Tourist Merit" (2000), "Silver Medal of City Merit - Porto" (2006), "Certified Mercury Prize - Best Trade in Area. Businesses in the category; shops with history" (2011) and "Municipal Merit Medal - Grade - Gold" (2011), the site cityguides rated it as the sixth most beautiful café in the world and TripAdvisor gave it a Certificate of Excellence. These came naturally, returning the coffee house finally to its notoriety, which for so many years had been forgotten.
907 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cafe Majestic
112 Rua Santa Catarina
907 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
On the 17th December 1921, an establishment called Elite café opened for business in Porto. It was located in Santa Catarina street, a pedestrian walkway for shopping and for the finest members of society, then and now. The café enlightened the street with its Art Nouveau decoration, by architect João Queiroz. Inside, the scent of leather upholstery and varnished wood is joined by the magnificent vision of the plaster-decorated ceiling and of the endless Flemish mirrors, is an ensemble that marvels all senses. Add in the combination of marble and metal and it becomes truly exquisite. At the back of the café, nature rules in the conservatory, which connects Santa Catarina street to Passos Manuel street. The opening day, which has become a distant memory, has always been remembered by the city. Many have flocked to this part of the city to learn about the new building that has become to define Porto's architectural landscape. Appealing to intellectuals, bohemians and to the ladies of high society, when on a walkabout, would sit to drink tea or eat an ice cream. Although this was a successful opening, the name Elite carried a hint of monarchy that did not go well with the republican, bourgeois and chic atmosphere of Porto at the time. The glamorous cultural elite from Paris was a reference for Portuguese culture in those days. Hence the new name – Majestic – filled with all the charm of "La Belle Époque". Soon the most influential figures of Porto became regular customers of the café. José Régio, Teixeira de Pascoaes, and Leonardo Coimbra, among others, gave this establishment the necessary literary standing to foster vivid debates between public figures and soon-to-be-famous characters, on the most important political, social and philosophical issues of the time. In a place which personifies art, true artists felt at home. Students and professors from the School of Fine Arts of Porto joined with renowned artists such as Júlio Resende, to explore new artistic ways and motivations, to criticize established procedures, to conceptualize new forms, or simply to hear the general word of the day. There was not much difference in the general atmosphere of several other cafés of Porto - socially and culturally distinct groups exchanging arguments around a cup of coffee or a notorious cup of absinthe. During the sixties and keeping pace with a certain forced lethargy in cultural manifestations in Portugal, the Majestic Café began to go into a slumber of its own. It was a time of slow but steady decline. Soon the public of Porto became aware of the degradation to which Majestic had fallen victim to and thus on the 31th August 1983, the building was declared a "Public Interest Building". Two years later the new administration tried to find a way to once again reconcile the café with the city. However, time shows its inexorability, years of neglect have transformed the space into a gloomy place. The Café Majestic and all its history clamoring for recognition. In 1992, seventy-one years after its grand opening, the decision is made to give back to the Majestic the well-deserved pride of being one of the most beautiful cafés of Porto. On the 15th July 1994, the Majestic re-opened after two long years with all the glamour of the past. Today, when you enter the Majestic you can visit an exhibition, attend a cultural event or even appear on television as it is sometimes turned into an occasional television setting. The Majestic Café, designed by architect João Queiróz and inspired in the works of his master Marques da Silva, is still one of the most beautiful and meaningful examples of Art Nouveau in Porto. The building, implanted in the corner between Santa Catarina street and Passos Manuel street in 1916, included already a reference to establishments oriented towards the pedestrian street, as it is also mentioned in the reconstruction description. The striking marble facade, ornamented with beautiful floral elements and winding shapes, is a good reflection of the decorative style of that time. The main facade boasts two elegant columns and three rectangular windows. Over these, a pediment crowns the composition with the Majestic's initials. On each side, two amused little-boy figures seem to invite people in. Inside, Art Nouveau is all around in the rectangular-shaped room. The curved symmetry of the wooden frames and the decorative details attract the eyes of any keen observer. The walls are covered with large mirrors showing some aging signs, and holding a few lamps with elaborate metalwork; this creates a clever illusion that this space is larger than it actually is. Plaster sculptures of human faces, naked figures and flowers confirm the wavy sensual style - two rows of leather seats, which replaced the original ones made of red velvet, create a cozy and elegant perspective of depth. The winding contour of mirror frames, the lamplight, the marble details, and the smiling busts covering the walls up to the ceiling, give the café a golden and comfortable atmosphere that fosters relaxation and easy chatting. The Majestic breathes luxury, refinement and comfort. The inside patio, built-in 1925, is a retreat of delicate contours, with a staircase and a small balustrade, designed as a conservatory. Under the supervision of master Pedro Mendes da Silva, this corner of the café was a symbol of a new era for Majestic. A bar was built and connected to the café through a staircase, thus allowing the opening of another entrance in Passos Manuel street, "...where Port wine would be sold. This is the reason why a regional style of Portuguese architecture was chosen, not only for the bar but also for the outside wall". The new facade was designed and built in a different style from the international interiors of the café - this new space, without totally clashing with the previously existing one, presented a more rural style representing what Raul Lino would later call the casa portuguesa (traditional Portuguese house). That same year, the Majestic served the tastes of a varied clientele. Once again architect João Queiróz was called in to design a new modest, yet gracious shop window in the restored wall, overlooking Passos Manuel street used to sell tobacco and rappee. A year later, in 1926, this area was enlarged and leased to Tinoco & Irmãos Company and was transformed into a "small cabinet (...) selling tobacco". In 1927, with new times and new ways ahead, the bar was expanded to "provide and serve beer in the existing terrace". This terrace area contains several moods. From the pure and architectural style of the entrance, reflecting the architect's Beaux Arts roots, we pass on to the decorative style garden crowning the architectural structures and ending up in a Ionian doorway, that makes the connection with the outside facade, including large, transparent and sensual spiral shells, in the typically modern style, which anticipate the feminine sculptures on the outside. The leafy and luminous conservatory is currently used in the summer for music concerts, playing the role of Majestic's third cultural space. It may be hard to choose between this and the grand piano area inside the café or the art exhibitions that take place in the ground floor, previously occupied by the pool tables. It was also in this year of 1927 that, under the Majestic Café Society, the Pavillon Majestic was inaugurated, a removable brewery, located in front of Rua do Crasto, where later was the 'Bar do Molhe', and where Pizza Hut is nowadays. In 1992, under the auspices of the Barrias family, the café closed down for a refurbishing project to be carried out under the supervision of architect Teresa Mano Mendes Pacheco. In 1994, after the interior floors were replaced and the original furniture was restored, the Majestic reopened for business. Some photographs found by Fernando Barrias conveyed the original spirit of this place and allowed its luminous past to be sensitively reproduced in the present. The numerous awards and international recognition - "Special Award Coffee Cream" (1999), "Silver Medal for Tourist Merit" (2000), "Silver Medal of City Merit - Porto" (2006), "Certified Mercury Prize - Best Trade in Area. Businesses in the category; shops with history" (2011) and "Municipal Merit Medal - Grade - Gold" (2011), the site cityguides rated it as the sixth most beautiful café in the world and TripAdvisor gave it a Certificate of Excellence. These came naturally, returning the coffee house finally to its notoriety, which for so many years had been forgotten.
Bolhão Market is the most famous in the city and in 2006 it was classified as a place of public interest. Dating back to 1850, with a singular structure with two floors, it is characterised by the monumentality of its neoclassic architecture. On the exterior, the market is divided into a large number of shops, facing the four surrounding roads: Fernandes Tomás, to the North, Alexandre Braga, to the East, Formosa, to the South, and Sá da Bandeira to the West. Dedicated mainly at fresh products, its sellers are divided into different specialised sections, namely: fishmongers, butchers, green grocers and florists. this a beautiful market is closed for refurbishment .They placed all the merchants in a temporary location, so if the main building is still closed and you’re looking for local produce I’d recommend taking the time to go there: www.facebook.com/mbolhao/?rf=602480390130875it’s only 2 mins away from the original location!
770 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Mercado do Bolhao
322 R. Formosa
770 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bolhão Market is the most famous in the city and in 2006 it was classified as a place of public interest. Dating back to 1850, with a singular structure with two floors, it is characterised by the monumentality of its neoclassic architecture. On the exterior, the market is divided into a large number of shops, facing the four surrounding roads: Fernandes Tomás, to the North, Alexandre Braga, to the East, Formosa, to the South, and Sá da Bandeira to the West. Dedicated mainly at fresh products, its sellers are divided into different specialised sections, namely: fishmongers, butchers, green grocers and florists. this a beautiful market is closed for refurbishment .They placed all the merchants in a temporary location, so if the main building is still closed and you’re looking for local produce I’d recommend taking the time to go there: www.facebook.com/mbolhao/?rf=602480390130875it’s only 2 mins away from the original location!
Granite building, dating from 1582, rebuilt in 1767 in neo-classical style, according to the design of the architect Eugénio dos Santos, by initiative of João de Almada e Melo and financed by Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro. It presents a geometric sequence of windows (103 on the whole). This polygonal-shaped building has 4 façades, two of which are related to its main functions: the main façade, on Rua de São Bento da Vitória, allows you to enter the Court sector. The other façade, opened to the Cordoaria Garden, was formerly constructed for the direct passage of prisoners and is currently the building's main entrance. Camilo Castelo Branco, who was one of Portugal's most famous writers and was charged with adultery as well as the famous Zé do Telhado who was charged with theft were kept here. Between 1999 and 2002 the building was restored under the direction of Eduardo Souto de Moura and Humberto Vieira, to become the current Portuguese Centre for Photography, including an exhibition center. Guided visits to the building are available. Included in the Urban Wine Route.
174 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Centro Portugués de Fotografía
Largo Amor de Perdição
174 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Granite building, dating from 1582, rebuilt in 1767 in neo-classical style, according to the design of the architect Eugénio dos Santos, by initiative of João de Almada e Melo and financed by Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro. It presents a geometric sequence of windows (103 on the whole). This polygonal-shaped building has 4 façades, two of which are related to its main functions: the main façade, on Rua de São Bento da Vitória, allows you to enter the Court sector. The other façade, opened to the Cordoaria Garden, was formerly constructed for the direct passage of prisoners and is currently the building's main entrance. Camilo Castelo Branco, who was one of Portugal's most famous writers and was charged with adultery as well as the famous Zé do Telhado who was charged with theft were kept here. Between 1999 and 2002 the building was restored under the direction of Eduardo Souto de Moura and Humberto Vieira, to become the current Portuguese Centre for Photography, including an exhibition center. Guided visits to the building are available. Included in the Urban Wine Route.
The city's most important Gothic temple, whose construction began in the fourteenth century. It is one of the most important works of the Baroque, by its gilded interior from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. It was the exuberance of its gild carved wood work that led Count Raczinsky to describe it as the 'Church of Gold'. And, overwhelmed, he adds: 'The gild of this church is so beautiful and rich that goes far beyond everything I have seen in Portugal and in the whole world'. It is worth of notice the Tree of Jesse, as well as the catacombs. It is a National Monument since 1910 and World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO since 1996.
433 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Iglesia Monumento de San Francisco
Rua do Infante Dom Henrique
433 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The city's most important Gothic temple, whose construction began in the fourteenth century. It is one of the most important works of the Baroque, by its gilded interior from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. It was the exuberance of its gild carved wood work that led Count Raczinsky to describe it as the 'Church of Gold'. And, overwhelmed, he adds: 'The gild of this church is so beautiful and rich that goes far beyond everything I have seen in Portugal and in the whole world'. It is worth of notice the Tree of Jesse, as well as the catacombs. It is a National Monument since 1910 and World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO since 1996.
The Porto Cathedral (Portuguese: Sé do Porto) is a Roman Catholic church located in the historical center of the city. It is one of the city's oldest monuments and one of the most important local Romanesque monuments. Unlike what's often written, the current Cathedral of Porto was not built under the patronage of Bishop Hugo since the pre-Romanesque church is still mentioned in the De Expugnatione Lyxbonensi as still extant in 1147. This means the present building was only started in the second half of the century and it would be constantly under works well until the 16th century (without counting later Baroque and 20th century interventions), but there is evidence that the city has been a bishopric seat since the Suevi domination in the 5th-6th centuries. The cathedral is flanked by two square towers, each supported with two buttresses and crowned with a cupola. The façade lacks decoration and is rather architecturally heterogeneous. It shows a Baroque porch and a beautiful Romanesque rose window under a crenelated arch, giving the impression of a fortified church. The Romanesque nave is rather narrow and is covered by barrel vaulting. It is flanked by two aisles with a lower vault. The stone roof of the central aisle is supported by flying buttresses, making the building one of the first in Portugal to use this architectonic feature. This first Romanesque building has suffered many alterations but the general aspect of the façade has remained romanesque. Inner view of rose window and central aisle of Porto Cathedral. Around 1333 the Gothic funerary chapel of João Gordo was added. João was a Knight Hospitaller who worked for King Dinis I. His tomb is decorated with his recumbent figure and reliefs of the Apostles. Also from the Gothic period is the elegant cloister, built between the 14th and the 15th centuries during the reign of King John I, who married English Princess Philippa of Lancaster in Porto Cathedral in 1387. Baroque loggia to the lateral façade The external appearance of the Cathedral was greatly altered during Baroque times. In 1772 a new main portal substituted the old Romanesque original and the tower cupolas were altered. In 1736 Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni added an elegant Baroque loggia to the lateral façade of the Cathedral. During the War of the Oranges whilst the battle at Amarante was taking place a group of Spanish soldiers briefly took control of the Cathedral before being overcome by the locals of the town. A marble plaque with a Magnetite backing now hangs up behind the altar in order to remind everyone of those who lost their lives whilst regaining control of the chapel. The magnetite backing was chosen in order to remind those traveling near the cathedral by interfering with the direction in which their compass points, Gothic cloisters of the Cathedral. The interior was also altered during the baroque era. In one of the chapels, there is a magnificent silver altarpiece, built in the second half of the 17th century by Portuguese artists. Also in the 17th century, the romanesque apse (which had an ambulatory) was torn down and a new one was built in baroque style, later decorated with new wall paintings by Nasoni and choir stalls. The altarpiece of the chapel, designed by Santos Pacheco and executed by Miguel Francisco da Silva between 1727 and 1729, is an important work of Portuguese Baroque. The three red marble holy-water fonts, supported by a statue, date from the 17th century. The baptistery contains a bronze bas-relief by António Teixeira Lopes, depicting the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist. The South transept arm gives access to the Gothic cloister, which is decorated with baroque azulejos by Valentim de Almeida (between 1729 and 1731).[3] They depict the life of the Virgin Mary and Ovid's Metamorphoses. The remains of the Early-Romanesque ambulatory contain a few sarcophagi. The terrace is decorated with tile panels by António Vidal. The coffered ceiling of the chapter house was painted with allegories of moral values by Pachini in 1737. Mass is celebrated at 11am each day.[2]
566 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Porto Cathedral (Se Catedral)
Terreiro da Sé
566 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Porto Cathedral (Portuguese: Sé do Porto) is a Roman Catholic church located in the historical center of the city. It is one of the city's oldest monuments and one of the most important local Romanesque monuments. Unlike what's often written, the current Cathedral of Porto was not built under the patronage of Bishop Hugo since the pre-Romanesque church is still mentioned in the De Expugnatione Lyxbonensi as still extant in 1147. This means the present building was only started in the second half of the century and it would be constantly under works well until the 16th century (without counting later Baroque and 20th century interventions), but there is evidence that the city has been a bishopric seat since the Suevi domination in the 5th-6th centuries. The cathedral is flanked by two square towers, each supported with two buttresses and crowned with a cupola. The façade lacks decoration and is rather architecturally heterogeneous. It shows a Baroque porch and a beautiful Romanesque rose window under a crenelated arch, giving the impression of a fortified church. The Romanesque nave is rather narrow and is covered by barrel vaulting. It is flanked by two aisles with a lower vault. The stone roof of the central aisle is supported by flying buttresses, making the building one of the first in Portugal to use this architectonic feature. This first Romanesque building has suffered many alterations but the general aspect of the façade has remained romanesque. Inner view of rose window and central aisle of Porto Cathedral. Around 1333 the Gothic funerary chapel of João Gordo was added. João was a Knight Hospitaller who worked for King Dinis I. His tomb is decorated with his recumbent figure and reliefs of the Apostles. Also from the Gothic period is the elegant cloister, built between the 14th and the 15th centuries during the reign of King John I, who married English Princess Philippa of Lancaster in Porto Cathedral in 1387. Baroque loggia to the lateral façade The external appearance of the Cathedral was greatly altered during Baroque times. In 1772 a new main portal substituted the old Romanesque original and the tower cupolas were altered. In 1736 Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni added an elegant Baroque loggia to the lateral façade of the Cathedral. During the War of the Oranges whilst the battle at Amarante was taking place a group of Spanish soldiers briefly took control of the Cathedral before being overcome by the locals of the town. A marble plaque with a Magnetite backing now hangs up behind the altar in order to remind everyone of those who lost their lives whilst regaining control of the chapel. The magnetite backing was chosen in order to remind those traveling near the cathedral by interfering with the direction in which their compass points, Gothic cloisters of the Cathedral. The interior was also altered during the baroque era. In one of the chapels, there is a magnificent silver altarpiece, built in the second half of the 17th century by Portuguese artists. Also in the 17th century, the romanesque apse (which had an ambulatory) was torn down and a new one was built in baroque style, later decorated with new wall paintings by Nasoni and choir stalls. The altarpiece of the chapel, designed by Santos Pacheco and executed by Miguel Francisco da Silva between 1727 and 1729, is an important work of Portuguese Baroque. The three red marble holy-water fonts, supported by a statue, date from the 17th century. The baptistery contains a bronze bas-relief by António Teixeira Lopes, depicting the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist. The South transept arm gives access to the Gothic cloister, which is decorated with baroque azulejos by Valentim de Almeida (between 1729 and 1731).[3] They depict the life of the Virgin Mary and Ovid's Metamorphoses. The remains of the Early-Romanesque ambulatory contain a few sarcophagi. The terrace is decorated with tile panels by António Vidal. The coffered ceiling of the chapter house was painted with allegories of moral values by Pachini in 1737. Mass is celebrated at 11am each day.[2]
Seventeenth-century church whose classical façade dates from the 1850s. The project has been attributed to the architect/painter Nicolau Nasoni. The altarpiece, of Porto rococo style, was considered to be a stylistically revolutionary piece. Building designated national monument.
58 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Igreja dos Carmelitas
1 R. do Carmo
58 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Seventeenth-century church whose classical façade dates from the 1850s. The project has been attributed to the architect/painter Nicolau Nasoni. The altarpiece, of Porto rococo style, was considered to be a stylistically revolutionary piece. Building designated national monument.
Church built in the second half of the eighteenth century. Due to its architecture and interior carvings, it is considered to be one of the most remarkable buildings of Porto rococo. In 1912, its lateral façade was covered with tiles. The drawings on those tiles were designed by Silvestre Silvestri and painted by Carlos Branco.They are figurative compositions alluding to the cult of Nossa Senhora (Our Lady). Building designated national monument. In this building there are two churches, since the nuns lived and worked in Igreja dos Carmelitas and the monks in Igreja do Carmo, separated by a small building between the two churches (the narrowest house in Porto and, maybe, in Portugal.
135 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Iglesia del Carmen
Rua do Carmo
135 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Church built in the second half of the eighteenth century. Due to its architecture and interior carvings, it is considered to be one of the most remarkable buildings of Porto rococo. In 1912, its lateral façade was covered with tiles. The drawings on those tiles were designed by Silvestre Silvestri and painted by Carlos Branco.They are figurative compositions alluding to the cult of Nossa Senhora (Our Lady). Building designated national monument. In this building there are two churches, since the nuns lived and worked in Igreja dos Carmelitas and the monks in Igreja do Carmo, separated by a small building between the two churches (the narrowest house in Porto and, maybe, in Portugal.
63 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Igreja de Santa Clara
Largo Primeiro de Dezembro
63 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona

Sightseeing

Unesco World Heritage - Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
741 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Ribeira station
741 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Unesco World Heritage - Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
1226 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Torre dos Clérigos
Rua de São Filipe de Nery
1226 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
79 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Mercado Ferreira Borges
19 R. da Bolsa
79 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The most awesome view of Porto's Ribeira. Try crossing the upper board of D.Luis I bridge and watch the sunset from this garden...
68 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Jardim do Morro station
68 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The most awesome view of Porto's Ribeira. Try crossing the upper board of D.Luis I bridge and watch the sunset from this garden...
368 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Avenida dos Aliados
Avenida dos Aliados
368 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona

Drinks & Nightlife

Downtown street, next to Clerigo´s Tower where all the bars are at.
803 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Rua da Galeria de Paris
Rua da Galeria de Paris
803 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Downtown street, next to Clerigo´s Tower where all the bars are at.
Come at any time of the day. Several rooms and terraces where you can contact with portuguese independent music and art.
395 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Maus Hábitos
178 R. de Passos Manuel
395 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Come at any time of the day. Several rooms and terraces where you can contact with portuguese independent music and art.

Food Scene

If you are a pork sandwiches lover, don´t miss "Guedes"! Try "papas de sarrabulho" as well! Don't go there at mealtime. It will be full of locals queueing outside. Go there after 14.30 and before 19.00 or you will have to wait...
451 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Casa Guedes
130 Praça dos Poveiros
451 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
If you are a pork sandwiches lover, don´t miss "Guedes"! Try "papas de sarrabulho" as well! Don't go there at mealtime. It will be full of locals queueing outside. Go there after 14.30 and before 19.00 or you will have to wait...
A street in Matosinhos where every door is a fish restaurant. Fish grilled outside in the street.
21 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Rua Heróis de França
Rua Heróis de França
21 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
A street in Matosinhos where every door is a fish restaurant. Fish grilled outside in the street.
Looking for the right place to eat a "Francesinha"? Santiago is one of those places. Go between 14.30 and 19.00 or you will have to queue...
416 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Café Santiago F
226 R. de Passos Manuel
416 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Looking for the right place to eat a "Francesinha"? Santiago is one of those places. Go between 14.30 and 19.00 or you will have to queue...
Another perfect spot to eat the perfect "Francesinha"
19 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Café Restaurante O Afonso
219 Rua da Torrinha
19 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Another perfect spot to eat the perfect "Francesinha"
If you are a vegetarian that's the place!
163 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
daTerra Baixa
249 R. de Mouzinho da Silveira
163 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
If you are a vegetarian that's the place!
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
daTerra Matosinhos
71 R. Dr. Afonso Cordeiro
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Are you on a diet? You are? Don´t go there, then! Don´t eat the delicious eclairs, then! :)
120 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Leitaria da Quinta do Paço
47 Praça Guilherme Gomes Fernandes
120 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Are you on a diet? You are? Don´t go there, then! Don´t eat the delicious eclairs, then! :)
All kinds of portuguese cheeses, "chouriços", "alheiras". Eat and cry for more, that´s the name of the shop and it's true!
13 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Comer e Chorar Por Mais
300 R. Formosa
13 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
All kinds of portuguese cheeses, "chouriços", "alheiras". Eat and cry for more, that´s the name of the shop and it's true!
Vegetarian and vegan restaurant.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Árvore do Mundo
228 R. do Duque de Loulé
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Vegetarian and vegan restaurant.
Best hot dogs you will ever eat!
119 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Gazela Cachorrinhos da Batalha
4 Rua de Entreparedes
119 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Best hot dogs you will ever eat!

Everything Else

Gorgeous sunsets in a cafe/bar where locals have a beer (fino). Not touristic nor fancy.
25 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bar Homem Do Leme
Avenida de Montevideu
25 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Gorgeous sunsets in a cafe/bar where locals have a beer (fino). Not touristic nor fancy.

Entertainment & Activities

The famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza ( Pritzker Architecture Prize) draw this astonishing swimming pool, which is carved in the beach rocks. It´s in Leça da Palmeira.
110 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Piscinas de natación de Leça
Avenida Liberdade
110 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza ( Pritzker Architecture Prize) draw this astonishing swimming pool, which is carved in the beach rocks. It´s in Leça da Palmeira.

Essentials

The nearest supermarket.
121 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pingo Doce
221 R. de Passos Manuel
121 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The nearest supermarket.
The nearest bakery
Padaria "O Brasileiro"
254 Praceta da Cidade da Praia
The nearest bakery
The nearest drugstore
Farmácia da Vilarinha
22 Av. do Dr. Antunes Guimarães
The nearest drugstore
The nearest private hospital.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
CUF Porto Hospital
14341 EST. da Circunvalação
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The nearest private hospital.
The nearest public hospital.
23 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Hospital de Santo António
Hospital de Santo António
23 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The nearest public hospital.