Attractions
Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis
The Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis displays the work of Porto-born sculptor Soares dos Reis. The museum opened in 1840 and also displays work by Dutch, Italian, French and Flemish masters. A large display of Portuguese works includes ceramics, glassware, furniture and gold and silverwork.
Address: Palacio dos Carrancas, Rua de Dom Manuel II.
Telephone: 22 339 3770.
Email:mnsr@ipmuseus.pt
Getting there: Take bus 18, 200, 201, 207, 300, 301, 302, 303, 501, 507, 601 or 602.
Hours of operation: Tuesday 2pm–6pm, Wednesday to Sunday 10am–6pm.
Admission: €5, free on Sundays.
Igreja de São Francisco
The church of St. Francis dates back to 1383 and has a beautifully decorated Baroque interior from the 17th and 18th centuries. Gold-gilded cherubs, flower garlands, animals and fruit cornucopia garnish the pillars and columns and wide, marble Gothic arches make for a beautiful sight.
Address: Rua do Infante D. Henrique.
Telephone: 222 006 493.
Hours of operation: Daily, in March, April, September, October open 9am–6pm. From May to August, daily 9am–7pm. From November to February 9am–5pm.
Solar Vinho do Porto
Oporto is famous for its port wine and the best place to sample all of the region’s offerings is the Solar Vinho do Porto in the Quinta de Macieirinha. Knowledgeable hosts will offer you tastes of port, complimentary snacks and some history about the port-making process. The atmosphere is relaxed and upscale, with roses covering the villa. You can also explore a museum displaying a small collection of paintings and 18thcentury furniture.
Address: Rua de Entre-Quintas 220.
Telephone: 22 609 4749.
Email:solarporto@ivp.pt
Website:www.ivp.pt
Hours of operation: Monday to Saturday, 4pm–midnight.
Vila Nova de Gaia
Oporto’s suburb Vila Nova de Gaia is home to more than 50 wine companies. The companies operate in lodges that offer tours and tastings. One of the best known is Sandemans, which occupies a 16th-century convent. The city sits on the south bank of the River Douro on top of an ancient fortified village.
