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Private Tour to History of Porto & Porto Calem Cellars & Wine Tasting

4 (14)
Porto, PT
4 (14)
Porto, PT
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Embark on a captivating 10-hour private tour to explore the rich history of Porto and indulge in some of the region's finest wines. Start your journey by visiting the Porto Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church that dates back centuries. Then, marvel at the architectural beauty of Torre dos Clerigos, a baroque-inspired complex that includes a tower, museum, and church. Cross the iconic Ponte de Dom Luis I and enjoy breathtaking views of the Douro River. Take a stroll along the riverbank and explore the historic center of Porto, including the enchanting Sao Bento Railway Station and the picturesque Cais da Ribeira. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Livraria Lello, a renowned bookstore with a stunning interior that is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Immerse yourself in the charm and history of Porto with this unforgettable private tour.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 10 hours
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Private Tour
  • & Audio GuidedGuided Experience
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Private tour
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Wine tasting
  • Driver/guide
  • Transport by air-conditioned minivan
  • Gratuities

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More about this experience

Introduction

Experience the enchanting charm of Porto on a private tour that takes you through the rich history and exquisite flavors of this Portuguese city. As the second largest city in Portugal and the economic capital of the north, Porto offers a captivating blend of Latin charisma, Baroque flair, and a distinct British influence. Embark on a 10-hour journey from Lisbon to Porto, where you'll discover the famous landmarks, indulge in a wine tasting experience, and immerse yourself in the captivating history of this beautiful city.

What to expect?

During this private tour, you can expect to explore the iconic Porto Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church that stands as one of the city's oldest and most significant monuments. Marvel at the stunning architectural complex of Torre dos Clerigos, a National Monument that encompasses a tower, museum, and church. Take in the breathtaking views of Ponte de Dom Luis I, the most emblematic bridge in Porto that connects both levels of the city. Cruise along the Douro River and soak in the picturesque houses of the historical center of Porto. Visit the São Bento Railway Station, adorned with over 20,000 tiles that reflect the history of Portugal. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cais da Ribeira, a charming riverside area that offers a perfect shot of the iconic Luís I Bridge. And don't miss the opportunity to explore Livraria Lello, the third most beautiful library in the world, rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling in creating the magical world of Harry Potter.

Who is this for?

This private tour is ideal for explorers and history enthusiasts who want to discover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks of Porto. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, this tour caters to all. The diverse attractions and experiences make it suitable for visitors of all ages and interests. So, whether you're a culture connoisseur, a wine lover, or simply someone seeking a memorable adventure, this tour is the perfect fit for you.

Why book this?

Book this private tour to immerse yourself in the authentic and awe-inspiring beauty of Porto. Discover the city's rich history, experience its vibrant culture, and indulge in a sensory wine tasting journey. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll gain insider insights and learn fascinating stories behind each landmark. The convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off ensures a seamless and stress-free experience. This private tour allows you to customize your itinerary and explore at your own pace, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Good to know

During this tour, you'll be treated to a wine tasting experience at the renowned Port Calem Wine Cellars. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and picturesque views throughout the tour. Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved. It's recommended to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. Your guide will provide fascinating historical and cultural insights, so be prepared to expand your knowledge and appreciation for Porto.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on this private tour rave about the unforgettable experiences and knowledgeable guides. They praise the breathtaking views from Ponte de Dom Luis I and the captivating beauty of Livraria Lello. Visitors are impressed by the fascinating history shared at each stop and the opportunity to taste exquisite Port wine at the iconic Port Calem Wine Cellars. The seamless organization and personalized nature of the tour receive high accolades, making it a highly recommended experience for those exploring Porto.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Porto Cathedral (Se Catedral)

Visit the Porto Cathedral (Portuguese: Sé do Porto) is a Roman Catholic church located in the historical centre of the city of Porto, Portugal. It is one of the city's oldest monuments and one of the most important local Romanesque monuments. Unlike what's often written, the current Cathedral of Porto was not built under the patronage of Bishop Hugo since the pre-Romanesque church is still mentioned in the De Expugnatione Lyxbonensi as still extant in 1147. This means the present building was only started in the second half of the century and it would be constantly under works well until the 16th century (without counting later Baroque and 20th century interventions), but there is evidence that the city has been a bishopric seat since the Suevi domination in the 5th-6th centuries. The cathedral is flanked by two square towers, each supported with two buttresses and crowned with a cupola. The façade lacks decoration and is rather architecturally heterogeneous. It shows a Baroque porch and a beautiful Romanesque rose window under a crenellated arch, giving the impression of a fortified church. The Romanesque nave is rather narrow and is covered by barrel vaulting. It is flanked by two aisles with a lower vault. The stone roof of the central aisle is supported by flying buttresses, making the building one of the first in Portugal to use this architectonic feature.

Torre dos Clerigos

See the architectural complex of Clerics, considered a National Monument since 1910, is one of the main points of interest for its Tower, Museum and Church, and a must-see location for all those who visit the city of Porto. The church and the Tower are part of a baroque-inspired building from the 18th century, which marked the city's urban configuration, located on an uneven street, but brilliantly used by Nicolau Nasoni, who managed to create a landmark building. The Church and the Tower are adjoined to the House of the Brotherhood, which since 2014, after it became a museum, is open to the public.

Ponte de Dom Luis I

(Pass by)

See the Porto bridges (or pontes, in Portuguese) - are definitely the most appealing ones in the country. There are currently 6 over the river Douro. But their history traces back further, and even to other non-existent bridges! Inaugurated 31st October 1886 and idealized by Théophile Seyrig (BE) (Socièté Anonyne de Construction de Willebroeck) Behold, the most emblematic of Porto bridges! This is a truly Porto bridge, since it connects both levels of the city, as well as downtown Porto and Gaia.

Douro River

Visit Gaia along the Douro River and see with your eyes the houses of the historical centre of Porto. On riverbank - The historical centre and the Ribeira area are filled with monuments for you to visit. The São Francisco Church is worth a visit, as it is a classified a national monument that once belonged to the Convent of Frades Observantes of São Francisco. Be sure to look at the 17th and 18th century gilded woodcarvings, the murals, the paintings on wooden panels in the presbytery, and the 16th century tombs. Sit in one of the street cafés in Cais da Ribeira, watch the boats sail by, listen to street music and try to identify in the landscape the Port River, between the Porto and Gaia riverfronts.

Sao Bento Railway Station

Visit São Bento Railway Station in Porto that was opened to the public in 1916 on the site of a former Benedictine monastery. The structure emanates the city’s typical melancholy and nostalgic air. Although the train station is striking from outside, the real beauty lies inside. The main hall is breathtaking with over 20,000 tiles that reflect the history of Portugal. São Bento Railway Station is in the city centre, so you’ll probably walk past it several times during your stay. Don’t miss discovering its main hall.

Cais da Ribeira

Cais da Ribeira -A little chaotic and great fun to explore, Porto’s riverside area is a very picturesque piazza where tourists and locals mingle. There are bars and restaurants around every corner, and these line the riverside walk too. You’ll have a perfect shot of the iconic Luís I Bridge from here, and if you duck through the arcades there’s a confusing maze of steep streets and stairways between pastel-painted houses in varying states of repair. The Cais da Ribeira has been spruced up a little in the last few years and information boards have been installed to tell you about this district’s characters and businesses when it was Porto’s hive of commerce. On the slopes above the Douro Estuary, Porto is a historic mercantile city with business and trade written into its very name. The centre is a World Heritage site, and you’ll be struck by how rich and varied this heritage can be: There are medieval walls, gleaming Baroque churches, the compact streets of the Ribeira district, the Romanesque Cathedral and that’s just the beginning. Fortified port wine is still stored in warehouses on the south bank of the Douro, and if you track the river to the ocean you arrive at the stylish Foz do Douro district for beaches and hip restaurants.

Livraria Lello

Must visit Lonely Lello Bookstore is the third most beautiful library in the world. The store has an excellent neo-gothic façade, where you can see two figures painted by José Bielman, representing the Science and the Art. This facade is only surpassed by its stunning interior, designed by Xavier Esteves. The building was inaugurated on January 13th, 1906, in an important social event for both Portuguese and Brazilian societies, attended by famous people from different spheres – among them Guerra Junqueiro, a renowned Portuguese writer. As you walk through the doors of this bookstore you’ll notice that there is a marvelous stairway and the wooden walls are also very exquisite. The stained glass ceiling adds an amazing detail with Lello’s motto “vecus in labore”. Rumor has it that J.K. Rowling’s inspiration to write Harry Potter has begun in Porto, particularly at this library. The well-known writer lived in Porto for 10 years working as an English teacher in the early 1990s and she used to drink a cup of coffee at the second floor of Lello’s bookstore. There are indeed great similarities between Lello’s bookstore staircase and the one described in Hogwarts. It is also believed that the Hogwarts’ costume was inspired by the costumes of college students in Portugal, composed of a black suit and a black coat – these students are very likely to be found around this area, as the headquarters of the Porto University are located at Praça Gomes Teixeira (up ahead, where you can find a Lion’s fountain, hence the nickname “Praça dos Leões” – Lions’ Square, as the locals call it).

Ribeira Square

See the Cais da Ribeira is a raised embankment leading away from Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square) toward the Ponte de D. Luís I. If you head west, the promenade raises further and narrows down a bit, turning into the Muro dos Bacalhoeiros, which is wedged between the riverside and a bevy of polychromatic buildings huddled together in mass. The walkway offers impressive views of the opposite bank. The entire area is littered with places to lunch and dine, from the wider embankment (closer to the bridge) to the tapering streets heading away from Praça da Ribeira toward the Casa do Infante and the Igreja de São Francisco. Praça da Ribeira, waterfront with the same name, is the central hub, at the bottom of Rua de São João, right next to the river. The Tripeiros refer to the praça as ‘Cube Square’ because of the large cube residing there, sculpted by José Rodrigues. The bronze sculpture rests inside a fountain where pigeons often come to bathe.

Reviews

(14)

4 (14)

dbedwell1001

Excellent tour with a premium ticket so tasting of the white, ruby and tawny ports. Really enjoyable, the guide was knowledgeable and ensured everyone enjoyed the experience

Martie S

Our tour guide Filipe Rodrigues was excellent. He was very knowledgeable about the history and culture of the city of Porto’s. We had a great time and would have liked to have spent more time in Porto.

J2gdhy

John was an excellent knowledgeable enthusiastic guide. Highly recommend the tour. Port was excellent also!

LLai_HK

We have joined the 6 Bridges Cruise at Porto which was recommended by our guide Diogo (at own expense). The cruise was nice but it did taken up our available time in Porto, especially when this kind of cruise tour was arranged in fixed schedule by local operator and you need to wait for the next cruise. Our guide did tried his best in bringing us to all the attractions we were interested in visiting. As it is a private tour, it is easy for you to forget about time management. For us, we spent too much time in Livraria Lello, and as a result, we needed to rush to other attractions for quick visits. So, if you are joining this kind of tour, do plan ahead the time you'll spend in each attraction!

Mrugendra_P

The guide was knowledgeable and helpful. The tour was conducted as promised and in timely fashion. We will try to book another vacation trip with viator in future

Mary Katherine W

Our driver was just that, a driver. He knew nothing and admitted to us he knew nothing and that he wasn't a good guide, but a good driver. He did take us to a port winery and that was nice. He then drove us out of town for lunch and the place was definitely authentic and good. We then drove back to town and had about an hour to walk around then headed back to Lison. Definitely not worth it. He knew nothing about Porto. He told us 3 times it was built on a hill so there are a lot of steps there. I could have told you that. Oh well. It would have been better had we trained up and stayed on our own and gone out the the Duoro Valley on our own.

Nonnie_M

<p>From the very beginning we knew things were not going to go well. The guide showed up 30 minutes late as he had been stopped by the police and did not have the correct documents. He then apologized for his poor English, and said that he had never been to Porto where our tour was and that we would discover it together. About halfway through a terrifying, fast car ride, we learn that he does not even have a list of the sites he is supposed to show us. Relying completely on Google Maps which he was going too fast to follow, he was unable to find the location of the Port tasting which was supposed to take place in the afternoon- because who wants Port at 11:30am?. After I pulled out my Google Maps, I navigated him to the location for the tasting after being lost for an hour. However, we had missed the first slot, and wasted a further half hour for the tour to start. At this point we decided to take matters into our own hands and showed him a list of the sites we were supposed to see and plotted the points on Google Maps. During our time spent waiting, we called the office of the tour company and were hung up on while trying to explain the situation. We were eventually called back after several attempts, but the situation was not remedied. He followed us to these sites that we had planned, walking slowly behind us and asking locals randomly for directions that were nearly always wrong. The tickets for Calem the Port tasting were included, but none of the other sites were. This was very misleading from the Viator description. At some point during our day, he disappeared and popped up later and said that he was busy having lunch. We found this odd as we had not had lunch either. Our last stop of the day was the Stock Exchange, but were unable to tour as tickets were sold out for the rest of the day. This was a foreseeable circumstance that an experienced tour guide or tour company would have been able to foresee. While Porto was beautiful and highly recommended with another tour company, this was far from a relaxing, well organized day. We felt very unsafe due to our guide's reckless driving and were guiding ourselves throughout the day, which made him redundant.</p>

Monish S

The driver and our guide Daniel was great, he got us to Porto and back fast. He also has good insight on the cities and history and took us to a great place for lunch. Only reason I am giving 3 stars is we weren't convinced if we got our money worth, Porto is good (not great or excellent)but not worth spending as much money

Rob A

<p>My wife and I had a great day trip to Porto! Although it was rainy, our guide showed us the major sites/churches of Porto. We had great views of the city and river despite the rain. Lunch was in a local restaurant with locals. we love that-simple meal at reasonable prices. Since we had spent much of our time in Lisbon, we really didn't need to have more cod recipes! After seeing the tower and three churches, we also saw the bookstore where Rowling wrote Harry Potter long line, we just peaked in. Then we had a Port wine tour for an hour, thanks to our guide! In the end we went home happy and tired. Because our trip was in December, we couldn't get out to the shore in time since it got pretty dark by 5:30. We recommend this tour!</p>

Rob A

The rain didn't stop us from having a great trip to Porto in December. We got picked up by Daniel bright and early at our hotel and drove up to Porto. On the way we passed by vineyards which were off season. Probably beautiful in the spring. Porto was a beautiful city and our guide was helpful and informative. Lovely sites of the city, churches and views of the city from the tower (lots of steps so beware!). Our lunch was not as Daniel had planned but was at a small restaurant serving the locals (our preferred way to go!). We finished our tour at the Calem Port company for an hour tour and explanation of the making of Port wine (did you know that it is made outside of Porto!). Sadly because it was raining and also in December, we didn't get a chance to do much more before we headed back home. Great day trip!
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2024-06-16 09:47