Aveiro

Known as the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro, located 57 km to the south of Porto, is a charming town surrounded by beaches, lagoons, and beautiful canals that run through it. It is easy to reach Aveiro: several trains leave Porto to Aveiro every day, and the journey takes about an hour.

• Address:

  Aveiro, Portugal

Beaches

The city of Porto is advantageously located right on the Atlantic coast, meaning there is no shortage of beaches within easy walking distance of all the main attractions. For sunbathing or swimming, visit the sandy Praia dos Ingleses or Matosinhos. Watch the sunset while enjoying fine food and a few drinks on the promenade of Gondarem Beach, a rocky shoreline close to the city centre.

Bolhão Market

At the Mercado do Bolhão, you will find a bright and vibrant open-air market brimming with fresh produce such as olives, cheese, and freshly baked bread. Known for its lively atmosphere, this is a great way to start the day, grab some breakfast or stock up on supplies for a day of sightseeing.

• Web:

  www.mercadobolhao.pt

• Address:

  Mercado do Bolhão, Rua Formosa 322, Porto

• Opening hours:

  Fresh Market: Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 8am–6pm. Restaurants: Mon–Sat 8am–midnight

Church of Santa Clara

One of the most impressive churches in Porto, Igreja de Santa Clara (Church of Santa Clara), started its construction in 1416, and it was completed in 1457. Its interior is Gothic, but in the 17th and 18th centuries, the temple was decorated in a Baroque style. The church nave is entirely covered in gilded woodcarving — a genuine feast for the eyes. From the church patio, it is possible to climb to one of the remains of the Fernandina Wall in the city.

• Address:

  Largo Primeiro de Dezembro, Porto

• More info:

  Near Ponte Luís I

Clérigos Tower

Torre Dos Clérigos is a 75-meters high granite Baroque tower built by the Italian artist Niccolo Nazzoni in the 18th century. Those who endure the steep 240-step journey to the top will be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view of the city. You should also visit the Igreja dos Clérigos (Church of the Clerics), a true Baroque masterpiece in the city.

• Web:

  www.torredosclerigos.pt/en

• Address:

  Rua de São Filipe de Nery, Porto

• Phone:

  +351 22 014 5489

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–7pm

Dom Luis I Bridge

Ponte Dom Luís I (The Dom Luís I Bridge), one of Porto's most famous landmarks, is a 172 metres double-deck metal arch bridge--the longest of its kind in the world--and links the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia over the River Douro. It is well worth a visit, especially to admire the sunset.

• Address:

  Ponte Dom Luis I, Porto