Exploring the historic heart of Porto has never been easier. The Old City and Monuments Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s architectural gems. From the imposing Romanesque cathedral to the ornate Baroque church, each landmark offers a glimpse into Porto’s rich past. With an expert guide leading the way, guests can enjoy the city’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to uncover Porto’s secrets, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the real question is, what hidden gems will you discover along the way?
Key Points

- Explore the historic old city of Porto on a 3.5-hour guided tour with admission to the Bolsa Palace, Porto Cathedral, and Saint Francis Church.
- The tour highlights the architectural diversity of Porto, showcasing Romanesque, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles in these iconic landmarks.
- Visitors can reserve the tour online and pay later, with a knowledgeable guide leading the group through the winding streets.
- The tour provides personal insurance coverage and allows guests to learn about the rich history and significance of the landmarks.
- The meeting point is at Terreiro da Sé, in front of the Cathedral’s towering Gothic spires, easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
Tour Details

The tour lasts 3.5 hours and is available for booking, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Visitors can check the tour’s availability online before securing their spot.
The tour package includes the services of a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead the group through the old city. Admission tickets to the Bolsa Palace, Porto Cathedral, and Saint Francis Church are also provided, along with personal insurance coverage.
This comprehensive tour allows guests to explore three distinct architectural styles – Romanesque, Baroque, and Neoclassical – while learning about the rich history of Porto’s old city.
With a convenient meeting point at the Terreiro da Sé, in front of the Cathedral entrance, this tour offers an immersive and well-rounded experience.
You can also read our reviews of more city tours in Porto
Included in Tour

A guided tour, admission tickets to the Bolsa Palace, Porto Cathedral, and Saint Francis Church, as well as personal insurance coverage are all included in this comprehensive Porto sightseeing experience.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historic old city with a knowledgeable guide, learning about the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
The tour package provides access to three distinct architectural styles – Romanesque, Baroque, and Neoclassical – across these important landmarks.
With all logistics handled, travelers can simply relax and enjoy the beauty and charm of Porto’s historic core.
This well-rounded offering ensures a seamless and enriching tour experience.
Tour Highlights

Visitors typically explore the historic Cathedral, admire the Baroque grandeur of the Bolsa Palace, and marvel at the ornate Romanesque and Neoclassical architecture of the Saint Francis Church during this comprehensive sightseeing tour. The tour highlights include:
| Landmark | Architectural Style | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Cathedral | Romanesque | One of the city’s oldest and most iconic structures, dating back to the 12th century. |
| Bolsa Palace | Baroque | A stunning 19th-century building that was once the stock exchange, known for its lavish interiors. |
| Saint Francis Church | Romanesque & Neoclassical | Features an extravagant golden interior and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. |
Meeting Point
At the very heart of Porto, right in front of the majestic Cathedral entrance, stands the meeting point for this immersive old city tour – Terreiro da Sé.
This picturesque square is the perfect starting point to explore the historical gems of the city. Visitors will find it easy to locate, with the Cathedral’s towering Gothic spires serving as a natural landmark.
From here, the knowledgeable guide will lead the group through the winding streets, sharing insights and anecdotes that bring the city’s rich past to life.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, the Terreiro da Sé sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through Porto’s captivating old town.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the Old City and Monuments Tour in Porto have overwhelmingly praised the outing, with an impressive overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on 13 reviews.
Reviewers highlighted exceptional value for money, awarding it a 4.7/5 rating in this category. The service and organization of the tour also received perfect 5/5 scores, with customers commending the knowledgeable guide and seamless execution.
Many noted that the tour provided a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and architectural diversity, allowing them to visit key landmarks like the Cathedral, Bolsa Palace, and St. Francis Church.
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Getting to the Meeting Point
The tour meeting point is located at Terreiro da Sé, right in front of the entrance to the Porto Cathedral. Participants can easily reach this central spot by walking, taking public transportation, or arranging their own transportation to the area.
| Getting to the Meeting Point | ||
|---|---|---|
| Walking | Public Transport | Own Transport |
| The meeting point is within | Metro, buses, and | Driving or taxi |
| easy walking distance of | trams are widely | can be a |
| many hotels and attractions. | available in Porto. | convenient option. |
The meeting point is well-connected and accessible, making it simple for participants to arrive and begin the exciting tour of Porto’s old city and monuments.
Exploring the Old City
From the meeting point, the tour whisks visitors through the winding streets of Porto’s historic old town, showcasing a captivating blend of architectural styles and cultural heritage.
The first stop is the impressive Porto Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece dating back to the 12th century.
Guests then explore the opulent Bolsa Palace, marveling at its lavish Neoclassical interiors.
The final highlight is the ornate Saint Francis Church, a prime example of Baroque architecture.
Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights into Porto’s rich history, bringing the city’s past to life.
Visitors emerge with a deeper appreciation for the old town’s diverse architectural treasures and the compelling stories they hold.
Architectural Styles
During the Old City tour, visitors explore three distinct architectural styles that have shaped the city’s historic landscape over the centuries.
The Romanesque Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, showcases the robust, symmetrical features characteristic of this medieval period.
The Baroque Saint Francis Church dazzles with its ornate, intricate details and lavish golden interior.
The Neoclassical Bolsa Palace, built in the 19th century, impresses with its grand, columned facade and elegant, harmonious proportions.
Experiencing this architectural diversity provides a captivating glimpse into Porto’s rich cultural heritage and the evolution of its built environment over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, unless the tour provider specifies otherwise. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm the policy.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
Yes, the tour company typically offers a private tour option. Customers can request a private tour for their group, which allows them to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience with the guide.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Yes, this tour offers discounted prices for students and seniors. Customers can receive up to a 15% discount on the tour price by providing valid student or senior identification at the time of booking.
How Many People Are Typically in a Group?
The typical group size for this tour varies, but tends to be small, around 10-15 people. This allows for a more personalized experience and easier navigation through the historic sites.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are typically allowed to take photos during the tour. However, it’s best to avoid using flash photography in certain areas, such as the churches, to avoid disrupting the experience for other participants.
Recap
The Porto: Old City and Monuments Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s historic landmarks, showcasing its architectural diversity.
Visitors can enjoy the rich history and culture, guided by knowledgeable experts.
With convenient online booking and personal insurance coverage, this tour provides an engaging and hassle-free way to discover the captivating essence of Porto’s old city.
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