[2024 Porto Attraction] Travel Guide for Livraria Lello (Updated Oct)
No.1 of Best Things to Do in Porto
Buildings by Famous Architects
Libraries
Address:
R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal
Opening times:
Open tomorrow at 09:00-19:30Closed Today
Recommended sightseeing time:
0.5-1 hour
Phone:
+351 22 200 2037
Porto | Porto is probably the most romantic city in Portugal
| Porto is probably the most romantic city in Portugal. Porto, always the 'dream city' that comes to mind, is probably the most romantic European city I've walked through. Make sure to allocate enough time for this stop on your trip to Western Portugal...
⛱️Must-visit attractions:
❶Luís I Bridge🌉: Spanning the old and new towns, be sure to take the tram🚋 and slowly enjoy the scenery passing by the window.
❷Lello Bookstore📖: The world's most beautiful bookstore, with long queues. You can check in at the Hogwarts spiral staircase, but it's a pity I didn't go inside. Instead, I bought some delicious ice cream🍨 at the door.
❸Church of the Holy Spirit: The blue and white porcelain facade is very eye-catching and photogenic
🌄Travel tips:
I personally think that citywalk, wandering without a specific purpose, is the best way. The city is not big, and it's generally enough to visit in 1-2 days.
💗Other tips:
If you're arranging a trip to both Spain and Portugal, local flights are economical. I visited Lisbon and Porto in Portugal, one day each.
EVIE HORN
Endless summer, Porto sunset train
Coming to Porto is like walking into an endless summer.
This European sunset city, every frame is like a movie.
Compared to Lisbon, I prefer the less popular here.
Porto is not big, a day tour is completely enough.
These few spots must be checked in❗️
1️⃣Sunset viewing platform
📍Miradouro da vitoria
You can take a panoramic view of the Luis I Bridge and the Douro River.
📍Miradouro da Serra do Pilar
The sunset train panorama is almost all shot here, and the nearby Hill garden can also see the sunset.
2️⃣Unique blue and white porcelain wall
📍Capela das Almas
📍Sao Bento Staion
The train station paved with blue and white porcelain.
📍Chapel of Souls
📍Igreja do Carmo
The blue and white porcelain exterior walls of these two are very exquisite.
3️⃣Casa Museu Fernando de Castro
A small museum recommended by locals, with many art collections.
4️⃣Lello Bookstore
It is said to be the place that inspired JK Rowling to write Harry Potter, and the stairs in the bookstore are very cinematic.
🥩Vaccarum
A steakhouse that I accidentally walked into next to the homestay I stayed in, it's delicious and large in portion, and the price is not expensive.
AstraiaMoonshadow456[
The charming São Bento Train Station 🇵🇹
The S. Bento railway station, in the city centre of Porto (is a 20th-century railway terminal) is for sure one of the most beautiful train stations in the entire world 🌍. You can find it walls and ceilings covered with 22 thousand tiles (azulejos) by Jorge Colaço (painter, caricaturist and potter).
The circa 22 thousand tiles depict some of the most relevant episodes of Portuguese history, namely King D. João I and D. Filipa de Lencastre, Egas Moniz and Infante D. Henrique in the conquest of Ceuta.
Welcome to this Iconic, Charming and Heritage monument of Oporto City.
📸 some pictures of the Iconic and Charming train station of São Bento
• Getting There
📍 Praça Almeida Garrett, 4000-069, Porto
• Attractions
🗺️ Liberdade Square
🗺️ Flowers Street (Rua das Flores)
⛪️ Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
⛪️ Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos)
⛪️ Santo António dos Congregados Church
🚡Funicular: Guindais (Ribeira–Batalha)
• Hotels
🏨 Intercontinental
🏨 International
🏨 Pestana
🏨 Tapestry Collection by Hilton (Sé Cathedral Hotel Porto)
• Food & Restaurants
🍽️ Brasão Aliados
🍽️ La Ricotta
☕️ coffee bar Nata
🍔 McDonald’s Aliados
🌭 Hard Rock Café Porto
☕️A Brasileira (Pestana Hotel)
• Shopping
🛍️Cardosas Square (Praça das Cardosas)
🛍️Flowers Street (multi stores)
🛍️Livraria Lello
🛍️Reitoria
🛍️Burberry
🛍️Hard Rock Café Porto
• Information
ℹ️ Lines: Minho line | Douro line | Braga line | Guimarães line | Caíde/ Marco de Canaveses line | Aveiro line
🎟️ CP Services: Regional and InterRegional | Porto urban trains
#2023travelwish #tripblazers #urbanexplorer #passionpassport #art #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #porto #SaoBento #bucketlistreboot #portugal
Manu Guedes
Beautiful Book Shop in Porto
#celebratewithtrip
Designed in Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau style, the bookstore was officially inaugurated by the Lello brothers in 1906.It is located at Rua das Caremelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto and is open daily from 0930-1900. The nearest metro station is either Sao Bento or Aliados, both are around 7 to 8 minutes walk.
Walls with bookshelves from floor to ceiling, filled with books of all kinds. Upstairs, don forgot to look up to admire the stunning stained glass windows decorated with the monogram and the motto of the bookshop.
The highlight of the visit is the emblematic forked staircase with lacquered red steps. While it may seem made of wood, the staircase is actually built in plaster.
Raymond TCY
Harry Potter library!
1.
Address - R. das Carmelitas 144
Highlights - so beautiful
Rating -
#culturalattractions #harrypotter #library
DanielLucena
The most beautiful bookstore in the world, the ticket is 5 euros, and the tourists are still in a constant stream. If you look at the book, the ticket can also be refunded.
When you talk about the most beautiful bookstore in the world, where do you think? The first thing that comes to mind is the Lello Bookstore, which is located in Porto, Portugal's second largest city. It is one of the world's top bookstores. It has been a hundred years old, and the gothic wooden staircases are particularly eye-catching. The
Lero Bookstore is also one of the oldest bookstores in Porto, with its neo-gothic look and stairs designed by architect Esteves. The top floor of the bookstore has food and red wine, and books in Portuguese, English and French are everywhere. Even when JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter, he liked to come here to find inspiration. The bookstore also displayed the signature version of the first edition of Harry Potter's Complete Works in a central location, which is very precious.
Tips:
1, Lero Bookstore is in the old town, very close to the Pastor Tower, Porto University, so you can go shopping together, but there are many bookstores, if you want Take a picture of no one, be sure to come early, wait until you open the door.
2, bookstore tickets 5 euros, can deduct the book fee, if you do not buy books, will send you a small book, still very beautiful.
3, Business hours: Monday to Friday: 10 am to 7:30 pm
Saturday: 10 am to 7 pm
Sunday: 11 am to 7 pm
Hechenwen.
I dont seem to have punched a lot of bookstores in my impressions. Although I like the small fresh place of the bookstore myself, I will occasionally visit the West and Sicily in Shanghai. As the pace of life grows faster and the e-commerce More and more popular, and occasionally buy a book, I did not hesitate to choose the online book, and then after the company's annual meeting in a Kindle, I even lazy online shopping online. . .
Desire to come to this bookstore in addition to the complex of the bookstore, but also because this bookstore is indeed a net red bookstore, said to be one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal, also rated as one of the world's top ten most bookstores by lonely planet .
- so many books
ccerzhang.
Visiting Porto was magical 🗺️
#traveldiaries
Just got back from an incredible trip to Porto, and I'm still buzzing from the experience! 🎉 The city is full of charm, with its colorful buildings, winding streets, and friendly locals. I started my visit with a walk along the Ribeira district by the Douro River – such a beautiful area with cafes and street performers. 😍 Crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge was a highlight, offering amazing views of the city and the river below.
I visited the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The entrance fee was €5, which you can use as credit toward a book purchase – a great deal if you're a book lover! 📚 I also took a tour of one of the famous port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia for around €15, which included tastings. 🍷 If you’re into history and culture, the Clérigos Tower and the Porto Cathedral are must-sees, and both offer stunning views of the city. Porto has this laid-back vibe mixed with so much to see and do; I’m already dreaming of my next visit! #trip #Porto #Portugal #Travel #CityBreak #PortWine
FlorinM
Porto, where scenery and time intertwine
In the gentle sea breeze of the Atlantic Ocean, the ancient city of Porto stands quietly, as if telling endless stories. Walking through the winding cobblestone streets, every stone has been washed by the years. The Douro River, like a jade belt, divides the city into two banks, reflecting the rows of red-roofed houses on the water, flowing with ancient maritime legends🗺️. Porto is not just a picturesque port but also a haven for the soul. Every corner is filled with the breath of art, music, and life. Here, time slows down, and the years quietly pass under the soft sunlight.
🧳Preparation before the trip:
✅Book your hotel in advance! Porto is a very popular tourist destination, so it's best to book your hotel in advance to avoid limited choices and high prices.
✅The temperature difference between day and night in Porto is greater than in southern Lisbon, so it is recommended to bring some jackets and long pants in case it gets cooler at night.
✅There are many slopes in Porto's urban area, so prepare comfortable shoes to make walking more comfortable.
✅The sunlight is strong at noon, so prepare sunscreen.
🚉Transportation guide:
International: Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, so there are many international flights, such as direct flights from London, Madrid, Frankfurt, etc. If departing from within the country, you can transfer from Beijing via Istanbul or Dubai to reach Porto.
Domestic: You can take a train directly to Porto from cities like Lisbon and Coimbra; there are also flights from Lisbon to Porto.
Within the city: Porto has a metro system, and you can buy metro tickets to reach various places in the city. Most attractions in the city center are within walking distance, as they are not very far apart. If you are really tired, you can take a taxi (Bolt app), which costs less than 5 euros per ride within the city!
🗓Recommended spots:
📍Dom Luís I Bridge
This bridge was built in 1886 and was designed by an engineer who had participated in the construction of the Eiffel Tower. It features a typical iron structure and arch design. Standing on the bridge, you can overlook the Douro River and the beautiful scenery on both sides, and you can also enjoy the sunset.
📍Lello Bookstore
Lello Bookstore is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Founded in 1906 by the Lello brothers, its unique Gothic exterior and luxurious interior decoration give people the feeling of walking into a palace of art.
📍Church of Saint Ildefonso
The most stunning feature is the church's exterior, which is covered with traditional Portuguese blue and white tiles depicting biblical scenes, offering a unique visual feast.
📍São Bento Railway Station
It is one of the most famous train stations in Portugal. The station building itself belongs to the French neoclassical style and is famous for its stunning blue and white tile murals inside.
(…and many more)
❤Travel impressions:
Porto is a city where history, culture, and nature harmoniously blend. The ancient streets, exquisite buildings, and the tranquil Douro River give this city a unique charm. Whether strolling through the historic city center or admiring the art of blue and white tiles, Porto offers a profound cultural experience.
Savoring local wines and delicacies, feeling the leisurely pace, it seems as if time slows down here. Porto is not only a visual feast but also a peaceful haven for the soul, making it hard to leave.
Imelda Senger
Porto, Portugal: A City Full of Charm, History, and Flavor
When you think of Portugal, Porto is a city that should be at the top of your travel list. Nestled along the Douro River, Porto is known for its stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and, of course, its world-famous port wine. My recent trip to Porto was nothing short of magical, and I can't wait to share my experiences and tips with fellow travelers.
**Exploring Porto's Historic Heart: Ribeira District**
Start your journey in the Ribeira District, Porto's historic heart and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through the narrow, cobbled streets feels like stepping into a postcard. The colorful buildings along the riverbank create a picturesque backdrop that's perfect for photos. Don't forget to stop by the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River.
**A Taste of Porto: Must-Try Foods**
Porto is a paradise for food lovers. One of the most famous dishes you must try is the *Francesinha*, a hearty sandwich filled with layers of meat, smothered in cheese, and topped with a rich tomato-beer sauce. It's indulgent, filling, and utterly delicious.
For something lighter, head to a local bakery and try a *Pastel de Nata*. While these custard tarts are famous throughout Portugal, Porto's bakeries add their own unique twist, making them a must-try treat.
Of course, no trip to Porto would be complete without sampling the city's namesake wine. Take a tour of the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto. Here, you can learn about the history of port wine, how it's made, and—most importantly—enjoy a tasting session with stunning views of the city.
**Don't Miss: Livraria Lello and Clérigos Tower**
For book lovers and Harry Potter fans, Livraria Lello is a must-visit. Often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, its stunning wooden interior and grand staircase will leave you in awe. Be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds!
For a panoramic view of Porto, climb the 225 steps of Clérigos Tower. The climb is steep, but the 360-degree view from the top is well worth the effort.
**Final Tips**
Porto is a city best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time to soak in the atmosphere. The locals are incredibly friendly, so don't hesitate to ask for recommendations—they might just lead you to a hidden gem.
Whether you're savoring the local cuisine, exploring the historic districts, or sipping port wine by the river, Porto offers an unforgettable experience that's sure to inspire your wanderlust.
#PortoAdventures #TravelPortugal #PortoEats #HistoricPorto #Wanderlust #PortoVibes #FoodieFinds #TravelInspiration #PortWineLover
Jordon49
Uncovering Porto's Hidden Gems in Spring
Introduction Porto, Portugal’s vibrant port city, comes alive in spring with blooming gardens and mild weather. While the iconic Ribeira district and Livraria Lello attract many visitors, Porto’s lesser-known treasures offer a more intimate and enchanting experience during this season.
Attractions
Jardim do Palácio de Cristal: This lesser-known garden offers breathtaking views of the Douro River and lush, well-maintained landscapes. In spring, the garden is adorned with colorful blooms and offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and picturesque photo opportunities.
Foz do Douro: Located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Foz do Douro is a charming neighborhood that’s often overlooked by tourists. In spring, the coastal area comes to life with pleasant weather and less crowded beaches. Enjoy a walk along the promenade and explore the local cafes and seafood restaurants.
Local Food
Francesinha: A Porto specialty, the Francesinha is a hearty sandwich layered with steak, ham, sausage, and covered in a rich tomato and beer sauce. Head to a local eatery like Café Santiago for an authentic taste. Spring is a great time to enjoy this dish with a side of fresh local greens.
Transportation
Getting Around in Spring: Porto’s public transportation is reliable, but consider walking or cycling to fully appreciate the city’s charm in spring. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring neighborhoods and discovering hidden spots at a leisurely pace.
Itinerary
Day 1: Begin with a visit to Jardim do Palácio de Cristal in the morning, then explore the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art. In the afternoon, head to Foz do Douro to relax by the beach and enjoy a seaside dinner.
Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the streets of the Ribeira district. For lunch, indulge in a Francesinha at a recommended local spot. In the afternoon, visit the less crowded São João National Theatre for a touch of culture.
Shoot Tips
Photographing Spring in Porto: Capture the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers in Jardim do Palácio de Cristal by using natural light. For Foz do Douro, try early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and less crowded scenes. A mix of wide shots and close-ups will highlight both the grand vistas and intricate details of Porto’s spring beauty.
Conclusion Porto in spring offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, with hidden gems waiting to be explored. By venturing beyond the main attractions, you’ll uncover the city’s unique charm and enjoy a more personal travel experience. Embrace Porto’s springtime allure and make the most of your visit!#myhiddengems
RamziRazan
Porto: Portugal’s Riverside Gem 🇵🇹
Porto, located along the Douro River in northern Portugal, is a city renowned for its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and world-famous port wine. This picturesque city offers a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Start your exploration in the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings create a charming atmosphere. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, offers stunning views of the river and the city. Don't miss the chance to visit the São Francisco Church, known for its lavish baroque interior covered in gold leaf.
Porto is also famous for its port wine, and a visit to one of the many wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river, is a must. Here, you can learn about the history of port wine, enjoy tastings, and even take a tour of the cellars. The city's culinary scene is equally impressive, with local specialties such as francesinha (a hearty sandwich) and fresh seafood available at numerous restaurants.
For a taste of Porto's modern side, head to the contemporary Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, set within a beautiful park. The Casa da Música, an architectural masterpiece, hosts a variety of concerts and performances, showcasing Porto’s dynamic cultural scene. The Livraria Lello, often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, is a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Porto’s waterfront is a bustling area perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering numerous cafes and shops. The scenic boat tours along the Douro River provide a unique perspective of the city and its stunning surroundings, with options ranging from short trips to full-day excursions into the Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards.
#mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides
Holiday101
The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World is in Portugal
The 'Livraria Lello', acclaimed as the most beautiful bookstore in the world, charges an eight euro entry fee. This most beautiful bookstore in the world opened in 1906 and has a history of over 100 years. It is a Neo-Gothic building designed by engineer Xavier Esteves.
At the center of the bookstore, there is a symmetrical spiral staircase with a delicate and unique design that has become a popular spot for photographs. While there are many beautiful bookstores, this one became famous because J.K. Rowling, the author of 'Harry Potter', is said to have lived in Porto and worked as a tutor before she became famous. Many places in Portugal became her sources of inspiration, and this historic bookstore is recognized by Harry Potter fans as the filming location for two scenes: Flourish and Blotts and the moving staircases inside Hogwarts Castle.
As a Harry Potter fan, I also had to make a pilgrimage here. The bookstore is indeed beautiful, but honestly, I don't think it's worth the eight euro ticket price 😂 Although the ticket can be used as a credit towards book purchases, you can't actually buy a book with it inside 😂 Luckily, today an old man helped me take a beautiful photo as a keepsake because I won't come again.
_TS***as
Oporto: the perfect couple days away
Visiting Porto was an unforgettable experience, full of charm, history, and vibrant culture. Nestled along the Douro River in northern Portugal, this city offered a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy that captivated me from the moment I arrived.
The first thing that struck me about Porto was its stunning architecture. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow, winding streets lined with buildings adorned in colorful azulejos—traditional Portuguese tiles. Walking through the Ribeira district felt like stepping back in time, with its medieval alleyways, ancient churches, and picturesque squares. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, offered breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River below. Crossing it on foot was an exhilarating experience, especially as the setting sun bathed the city in a golden glow.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Livraria Lello, often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its neo-Gothic architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and stunning stained glass ceiling created an atmosphere that was both magical and inspiring. I could easily see why it is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling while she was writing the Harry Potter series.
The food in Porto was another unforgettable aspect of my visit. Portuguese cuisine, with its rich flavors and fresh ingredients, was a delight. I indulged in traditional dishes such as bacalhau à brás (a codfish dish) and feasted on pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at local bakeries. However, the standout meal was a hearty francesinha—a sandwich layered with various meats, covered in melted cheese, and smothered in a rich tomato and beer sauce. Pairing this with a glass of local port wine was a culinary experience I won’t soon forget.
The people of Porto were warm and welcoming, adding to the overall charm of the city. Whether I was seeking directions, recommendations, or simply a friendly chat, the locals were always happy to help, making me feel at home.
My experience in Porto was a perfect blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and genuine hospitality. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, soak in its beauty, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. I left Porto with a heart full of fond memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting city.