Private Porto Day Tour from Lisbon: Clérigos, Lello & Port Wine

Summary

Porto Private Tour Highlights: Clérigos Tower, Lello Bookstore & More

You’ll cover Porto’s essentials in comfort—from climbing Clérigos Tower to wandering Livraria Lello and sipping real port wine by the river—all with a local expert guiding you through hidden corners and stories most travelers miss.

What’s the experience like?

The drive up from Lisbon was smooth—our driver had water ready and the WiFi actually worked (handy for checking opening times). Once we hit Porto, the air felt cooler than back in Lisbon, with that salty river breeze you only get near the Douro. First stop: Clérigos Church. The bell tower stands out even from blocks away. We climbed up those narrow steps—honestly, it’s a bit of a squeeze if you’re not used to old European towers—but the view at the top is worth every step. You can see all the way across to Vila Nova de Gaia where the port cellars sit. Our guide, Miguel, pointed out little details I’d have missed—like the old clock mechanism still ticking away.

Next up was Livraria Lello. If you’ve ever seen photos of that swirling staircase or stained glass ceiling, it’s even more impressive in person—and yes, there’s usually a line outside (buy your ticket online if you can). Inside smells like old books and polished wood. There’s this hush even with all the visitors snapping photos. Miguel told us about J.K. Rowling hanging out here when she lived in Porto; apparently some Harry Potter bits were inspired by this place. After that, we strolled down Avenida dos Aliados—grand old buildings everywhere and people spilling out of cafés like Café Guarany. It feels busy but not rushed.

São Bento Station was next—a working train station but also basically an art gallery thanks to those blue-and-white tiles showing off bits of Portuguese history (the battle scenes are wild). From there it’s just a short walk to Porto Cathedral. The terrace gives you another angle on the city and river—you can spot the Dom Luís I Bridge and watch boats drifting below. In Ribeira Square, street musicians played fado while we grabbed a quick espresso at one of those tiny riverside cafés (the kind where chairs wobble on cobblestones). Last stop: port wine tasting in Gaia. The cellar was cool and smelled faintly of oak barrels; our host poured three different ports and explained what made each one special—nutty notes in one, dried fruit in another.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Porto City Highlights and Wine Tasting

• Pickup in Lisbon
• Climb Clérigos Tower
• Visit Livraria Lello Bookstore
• Pass by Aliados Avenue
• Explore São Bento Train Station
• Visit Porto Cathedral
• Stroll Ribeira Square
• Port Wine Tasting
• Drop-off in Lisbon

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! There are infant seats available and space for strollers or prams in the vehicle. The pace is flexible too.

Do I need to buy tickets for Clérigos Tower or Livraria Lello ahead of time?

It’s strongly recommended to buy tickets online before your visit—these spots get busy fast, especially Livraria Lello.

Will there be time for lunch or coffee breaks?

Definitely! There are plenty of chances to grab coffee or snacks along Avenida dos Aliados or by Ribeira Square.

Is pick-up really door-to-door from my hotel in Lisbon?

Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included right at your hotel or apartment in Lisbon for maximum convenience.

What’s included

Your ride comes with bottled water, WiFi on board, and pick-up/drop-off at your hotel or apartment in Lisbon. A private chauffeur who knows Porto inside out will guide you all day in a comfy Mercedes vehicle—choose from E Class sedans to roomy Sprinters if you’re traveling as a group.