Porto private city tour
Explore the enchanting city of Porto, a jewel of northern Portugal, and embark on a journey that seamlessly blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This Porto city tour is designed to immerse you in the vibrant heart of the city, from its stunning coastline to its historic core. Our private city tour offers an unforgettable experience, escorted by a certified professional driver-guide in the comfort of a luxurious Mercedes-Benz vehicle, complete with air conditioning and WiFi.
Our adventure begins where the mighty Douro River meets the vast Atlantic Ocean, at the beautiful Matosinhos beach. Feel the sea breeze and take in the panoramic views of the coast before we head inland to the city’s most iconic landmark. The Clerigos Tower, a baroque masterpiece, stands as a testament to Porto’s rich architectural heritage. Ascend its winding staircase for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the cityscape.
Just a stone’s throw away from the tower, we discover the literary magic of Lello’s Bookstore. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, its neo-Gothic facade and stunning interior staircase have long been a source of inspiration. Its connection to the Harry Potter series makes it a pilgrimage site for fans and book lovers alike.
Next, our Porto private tour will lead us across the grand Avenida dos Aliados, a magnificent boulevard lined with impressive granite buildings that define the city’s civic center. This vibrant thoroughfare is the beating heart of Porto, a place where locals and visitors gather to celebrate and socialize. From there, we dive into the lively and colorful Bolhao Market. This traditional market is a sensory overload, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to unique crafts and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to experience the authentic daily life of Porto.
A short stroll brings us to the famous pedestrian street, Rua de Santa Catarina. Here, amidst the bustling shops and street performers, you’ll find the legendary Majestic Café. This Art Nouveau gem is a true step back in time, with its ornate mirrors, polished marble, and elegant atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and soak up the sophisticated ambiance.
Our tour continues to the St. Bento Station, a true work of art. The station’s main hall is adorned with over 20,000 blue and white ceramic tiles, or azulejos, which depict scenes from Portugal’s history and rural life. It’s a stunning example of Portuguese tile work and a popular photo opportunity. From there, we’ll visit the Porto Cathedral, a majestic Romanesque structure with a commanding presence and an incredible view of the Douro River and the Vila Nova de Gaia riverbank.
For lunch, you’ll have the freedom to choose from one of the many fantastic restaurants along the riverfront, offering fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine. Post-lunch, an optional yet highly recommended visit awaits at the Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. This is where the secrets of Porto’s world-famous Port wine are revealed. Explore the cool, dark cellars where the wine ages, learn about the production process, and, of course, enjoy a delightful Port wine tasting.
For a different perspective of the city, you can opt for a 50-minute river cruise on a traditional Rabelo boat. These historic boats once transported wine barrels from the Douro Valley to the cellars. The cruise offers unparalleled views of Porto and its iconic bridges, including the famous Dom Luís I Bridge, providing excellent opportunities for stunning photographs.
