Past and Present Porto Architecture Private Tour

Porto , Portugal

Past and Present Porto Architecture Private Tour

Active

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Porto in a unique and exclusive way, with a local expert who will take you to explore the city through its architecture.
This tour approaches the city from the point of view of its architecture.
Immerse yourself in the masterpieces of great names such as Alvaro Siza Vieira and Eduardo Souto Moura, both winners of the Pritzker Prize, without forgetting the legacy of Rem Koolhaas.
Visit in detail Siza's masterpieces, such as the "Boa Nova Tea House" and the "Tidal Pool", icons of national heritage and world references. Stroll through the gardens of "Casa de Serralves", visit the "Museum of Contemporary Art", a masterpiece.
Explore the richness of Porto's classical architecture, with a route that goes from Nasoni to Marques da Silva, from Távora to contemporary masters.
An unforgettable tour between the city's glorious past and vibrant contemporary life!

Available options

Past and Present Porto Architecture Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Tickets for the Contemporary Art Museum - Serralves

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Starting Point, near the Porto City Hall.
Brief Introduction of the Tour, Location and History of Porto and Portugal.

Stop 2 Pass by

Drive through the Square and take a look at the Stock Exchange Palace

Pass by the Customs Building, by the river

Pass by the St. John Fort, right next to the mouth of the river Douro.

After a 30 minute ride, pass by the Fort of St. Francis, also known as The Cheese Castle and see the limits of the City Park

After a 10 minute drive, stop to see the Cruise Ship Terminal, a modern building with a unique architeture,

After a 45 minute drive, enjoy one of the most important buildings of the pritzker awarded Alvaro Siza Vieira.

One of the most iconic constructions, by the ocean. Also from the awarded Alvaro Siza Vieira.

Stop 9

After a 30-45 minutes drive, stop at the Contemporary Art Museum.
Invited to visit the original house of the property (Art Deco), the museum and the gardens.
Also the suggested place to lunch.

Stop 10 Pass by

After a 15 minutes drive, The House of Music. An Iconic building in Porto to feel the Contemporary Architecture. Design of the Pritzker prize awarded architect Rem Koolhaas.

Stop 11

After a 30 minutes drive, visit the School of Architeture, from the Porto University. Design by Alvaro Sica Vieira.

Stop 12

Back at Porto´s city center, a outside visit of the Clerigos Tower and church. One of the most iconic buildings in Porto, from the 18th century. A complete explanation of the design fo the building and surrounding area.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of the city hall, near the "Porto." sign, will be the default place for pick up.
Please look for a sign flag with our name on it.
Any issue, call or message us on the Number on the Ticket.

Important notes

In front of the city hall, near the "Porto." sign, will be the default place for pick up.
Please look for a sign flag with "Traveline".
Any issue, call or message (+351)932587914 for any assistance.

About Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque Ribeira district, historic bridges, and world-famous port wine cellars, Porto offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.

Top Attractions

Ribeira District

The Ribeira district is the historic heart of Porto, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone coming to Porto.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is one of the most famous bookstores in the world, known for its stunning neo-Gothic interior and as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.

Cultural 1 hour €6 (includes a book voucher)

Clérigos Tower

The Clérigos Tower is a iconic Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of Porto. Climbing the 240 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.

Architecture 1 hour €5

Dom Luís I Bridge

This double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck offers stunning views of the river and the city.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Port Wine Cellars

Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many of Porto's famous port wine cellars, where you can learn about the history of port wine and enjoy tastings.

Cultural 2-3 hours €10-€30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Francesinha

A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and a special sauce, served with fries.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Bacalhau à Brás

A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and eggs

Tripas à Moda do Porto

A traditional Porto dish made with tripe, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Pastéis de Nata

Delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust, often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Serra do Pilar Kayaking on the Douro River Sunbathing at Praia do Castelo do Queijo Enjoying a port wine tasting Visiting the Livraria Lello Exploring the Ribeira district Swimming at Praia do Castelo do Queijo Boat tours on the Douro River

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Porto is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation
• Be cautious when using taxis, and always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before starting your journey
• Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center

By train

Porto Campanhã, Porto São Bento

By bus

Porto Bus Terminal (Terminal de Camionagem de Porto)

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with six lines connecting major points of interest.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ribeira Bolhão Foz do Douro Miguel Bombarda

Day trips

Braga

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Braga is a historic city known for its beautiful churches, monasteries, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

Guimarães

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Guimarães is a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. It's home to a well-preserved medieval center and the stunning Guimarães Castle.

Douro Valley

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

The Douro Valley is a stunning wine region known for its terraced vineyards, port wine cellars, and scenic boat tours.

Festivals

São João Festival • June 23-24 Festa de São João • June 24 Porto Wine Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and long queues
Take a port wine tasting tour to learn about the history of port wine and sample a variety of wines from different cellars
Explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as many of its narrow streets and charming squares are best discovered by walking
Try the local cuisine, such as Francesinha, Bacalhau à Brás, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, at traditional restaurants and cafes
Take a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the stunning vineyards, visit port wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Douro River