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The baroque Clérigos Tower rising above a street of tiled buildings

Viewpoint

Clérigos Tower

The baroque bell tower of the Clérigos Church has dominated Porto’s skyline since the 18th century. Climb it for the best panoramic view in the city centre.

About the tower

The Clérigos Church and its tower were designed by Nicolau Nasoni, an Italian-born architect who shaped much of baroque Porto and is buried in the church. At about 75 metres, the tower was for a long time the tallest structure in Portugal, and it is still the easiest landmark to spot from anywhere in the city.

The climb

A narrow spiral staircase of more than 200 steps leads to the viewing gallery near the top. From there you can see the old town, the river, the Gaia port lodges and, on a clear day, the Atlantic.

Tips

  • Buy your ticket online and go early or late in the day, when there are fewer people on the stairs.
  • There is no lift, and the staircase is tight in places.
  • Livraria Lello is a two-minute walk away, so you can visit both in one morning.
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