Porto Cathedral

Porto Cathedral showing heritage architecture, a church or cathedral and interior views
Porto Cathedral featuring heritage architecture, religious aspects and interior views
Porto Cathedral featuring heritage architecture, interior views and a church or cathedral
Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral showing a monument, a square or plaza and religious elements


This superb cathedral combining Gothic and Romanesque styles features a wealth of religious sculpture and painting. 

Visit Porto Cathedral and admire the stunning wall of painted tiles, the fabulous silver altarpiece and the glistening treasury. Enjoy the superb views across the city from the upper floor and learn about the cathedral’s integral place in Porto’s history.

Stroll around the cathedral and admire the Romanesque façade. One of the oldest parts of the cathedral, the plaza has changed little since the structure was completed in the 13th century. With its high towers and peaked battlements, at first glance it resembles a fort, although you will start to appreciate several other features as you get closer. Admire the beautiful rose-shaped stained-glass window above the main entrance. Note the slight difference in style of the cupolas on the turrets. These Baroque elements were added in the 18th century.

Step inside the cathedral to discover a wealth of religious art. Your eye will be drawn to the glistening silver altarpiece of the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament. Explore the interior further and you will come to the small São Vincente Chapel where you will see a set of sculptures which date to the 14th century. Head to the treasury to appreciate more superb sculptures and fine religious paintings. You will also find other relics such as old scripts and jewellery.

Be sure to pay a visit to the Gothic-style cloister. This was added during the reign of King John I and features one of the cathedral’s highlights, a superb wall of painted tiles by artist Valentim de Almeida.

Don’t miss the fine granite staircase designed by Italian architect, Nicolau Nasoni. Climb these steps to reach the upper floor and enjoy superb views across Porto and the River Douro.

Porto Cathedral is located in the city centre, a short walk from several bus and metro stops. Admission is free throughout the year although there is a small fee to enter the cloisters. It is open daily.

Plan a trip to see Porto Cathedral

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Things to do near Porto Cathedral

Near Porto Cathedral, visitors can enjoy guided tours that explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the site, while the nearby Coliseu do Porto hosts a variety of concerts and events, providing a lively cultural experience. Additionally, there are charming shops and boutiques in the vicinity, perfect for a spot of shopping. These activities make for an enriching visit to this iconic landmark in Porto.

Shopping

Close to Porto Cathedral, you can explore Livraria Lello for exquisite books, and Bolhao Market for a vibrant local atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, El Corte Inglés de Gaia offers a diverse shopping experience with entertainment options for the whole family.

Recreation

Enjoy a musical retreat at Casa da Música, where vibrant performances uplift your spirit. For sports enthusiasts, Dragão Stadium offers an exhilarating atmosphere. Alternatively, unwind at Lavandeira Municipal Park, a serene space perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views from the Gaia Cable Car, located 311m from Porto Cathedral, offering a thrilling ride with outdoor family vibes. For a more adventurous outing, head to Emboscada Parque Aventura, situated 6.2km away, or explore the scenic Passadiços do Paiva treeTopWalk, 16.2km from the Cathedral.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Porto Cathedral! Enjoy a show at Porto Coliseum, just 249m away, or immerse yourself in the culture at Teatro Nacional São João, only 186m away. For a unique outing, head to Theatro Circo, located 18.6km away, for an unforgettable evening.

Find the best attractions near Porto Cathedral

Whether you're a culture enthusiast or seeking a family-friendly experience, Porto Cathedral and its surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions. Explore the historic streets and nearby piazzas, or visit the charming Porto apartments that reflect the city's rich heritage. Not to be missed are the nearby attractions in Porto's historic centre, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's past and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Ribeira Square: Located a mere 124m from Porto Cathedral, Ribeira Square is a vibrant piazza that encapsulates the essence of the city with its lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and riverside charm, perfect for soaking up local culture.
  • Dom Luis I Bridge: Also 124m away, this iconic historic bridge offers breathtaking views of the Douro River and the cityscape, making it a cultural landmark where you can appreciate Porto's rich history while enjoying a leisurely stroll.
  • Cais de Gaia: Situated 373m from the Cathedral, Cais de Gaia is a delightful tourist precinct ideal for families, featuring outdoor spaces, picturesque views, and an array of wine cellars to explore.

Best time to go to Porto Cathedral

The best time to visit Porto Cathedral is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.1°F (16.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.8°F (18.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July69.6°F (20.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August70.3°F (21.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
September68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October63.7°F (17.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December52.3°F (11.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Porto Cathedral

To save money on your visit to Porto Cathedral, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November, when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield the best rates, especially on Tuesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to compare room rates, filter for eco-friendly options, and look for package deals that combine flights and activities. Additionally, take advantage of free activities around the cathedral and use public transport for affordable travel within the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Porto Cathedral are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Porto Cathedral is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Porto Cathedral is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Porto Cathedral is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable options and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Porto Cathedral with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.