Livraria Lello & Clérigos

The Livraria Lello is not just a bookstore — it is a neo-Gothic total work of art from 1906. The sweeping red wooden staircase, winding like a double helix through the space, the intricately carved wooden shelves reaching up to the ceiling, the stained glass window on the upper floor — all this has made it one of the most photographed bookstores in the world. J.K. Rowling, who taught English in Porto in the early 1990s, is said to have been inspired here for the moving staircases in Hogwarts.

The rush is enormous: On peak days, over 5,000 visitors come. Therefore, there is a ticket system — entry costs €8, but is deductible with a book purchase. Tickets are bought in advance online or at the kiosk opposite. Despite the crowds, the visit is worth it: The beauty of the space is overwhelming. Book lovers will also find a good selection of Portuguese literature in several languages here.

Only 300 meters away, the Torre dos Clérigos rises into the sky — at 76 meters, the tallest church tower in Portugal and Porto's landmark. The baroque Clérigos Church (1750) is already impressive, but the real experience is the 225 steps up the tower. The narrow spiral staircase is not for claustrophobics, but the 360° view over Porto's rooftops, the Douro, and the Atlantic is worth every step.

In the basement of the church is the Clérigos Exhibition with sacred art and the former cemetery of the brotherhood. The combo ticket (tower + exhibition) costs €8. Occasionally, an atmospheric light show takes place on the facade in the evenings.