What to see in Porto if you love cats? (2024)
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Porto is not only a treasure trove of historical landmarks and cultural attractions but also a haven for cat lovers. The city’s charming streets and inviting plazas often play host to the presence of many felines, adding an extra layer of warmth and character to its already enchanting atmosphere.

But what to see in Porto if you’re looking to combine your love of travel with your affection for furry friends?

Here are twelve must-visit attractions and landmarks in Porto where you’re likely to find a whole bunch of cats.

What to see in Porto? Twelve cat-friendly gems to explore!

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1. Ribeira district

The Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a picturesque waterfront area known for its colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and lively ambiance. As you explore this charming district, which is nestled along the banks of the Douro River, keep your eyes peeled for the friendly feline inhabitants that often lounge in sunny spots or leisurely observe passersby from windowsills.

This area, which dates back to medieval times, was once the bustling epicenter of Porto’s maritime trade. The narrow streets and labyrinthine alleys that wind through Ribeira are lined with centuries-old buildings, each bearing the marks of time and telling stories of the city’s maritime heritage.

The cobblestone streets of Ribeira create a cozy environment that seems tailor-made for cats. While you enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Douro River or sip on a cup of coffee in a quaint café, you’re likely to meet these furry locals. Be prepared for spontaneous and heartwarming encounters as you discover the hidden nooks and crannies where cats find solace amidst the the ebb and flow of the bustling cityscape.

Book your guided tour through the Ribeira district here!

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2. Jardim do Palácio de Cristal

Jardim do Palácio de Cristal, or the Crystal Palace Garden, is a serene oasis in the heart of Porto that provides a tranquil escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

The origins of Jardim do Palácio de Cristal trace back to the 19th century. It was designed by the German landscape architect Émile David as part of Porto’s urban development plan. The park was intended to host the International Exhibition of 1865, an event that aimed to showcase the city’s economic and cultural progress. The centerpiece of the park was a grand iron-and-glass pavilion, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, which gave the garden its popular name.

Today, Jardim do Palácio de Cristal serves as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. The park covers a vast area of covers an area of approximately eight hectares (equivalent to roughly 80,000 square meters) and is characterized by its well-maintained lawns, meticulously landscaped gardens, serene ponds, and elegant statues.

This expansive park is not only a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a moment of respite but also a sanctuary for cats seeking refuge. As you meander through the garden’s lush pathways, you’re likely to encounter friendly cats basking in the sun or exploring the surroundings. The peaceful ambiance of Jardim do Palácio de Cristal creates the perfect backdrop for a leisurely cat-spotting adventure.

Address: Jardim do Palácio de Cristal, Rua de Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto, Portugal.

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3. Livraria Lello & Irmão

Livraria Lello, often referred to as Livraria Lello & Irmão, is a true gem nestled in the heart of Porto. Renowned for its exquisite neo-Gothic architecture, wooden carvings, and stunning stained glass windows, the bookstore is a haven for literature and cat enthusiasts alike.

Beyond its gorgeous design and impressive collection of books, Livraria Lello offers an unexpected treat for cat lovers: A resident cat has made the bookstore its home. As visitors browse the shelves or ascend the iconic red staircase, they might find this adorable feline friend perched on one of the bookshelves, providing a cozy and charming presence that enhances the overall appeal of the bookstore.

Address: Livraria Lello & Irmão Rua das Carmelitas, 144 4050-161, Porto, Portugal.

Opening hours: From Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 07:30 pm.  Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 07:00 pm.

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4. Mercado do Bolhão

Mercado do Bolhão is a beloved historical market that has been a cornerstone of Porto’s cultural and culinary scene for over a century. Located in the heart of the city, this bustling marketplace is a sensory delight, offering an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is a testament to Porto’s rich gastronomic heritage, and it provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents.

As you stroll through the market’s bustling aisles, you will most likely notice a furry presence going hand-in-hand with market life: cats!

These feline visitors have become a familiar sight at Mercado do Bolhão, regularly making appearances among the food stalls, seeking a treat from a kind-hearted vendor.

Address: Mercado do Bolhão, Rua Formosa, 214, 4000-214 Porto, Portugal.

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5. Igreja do Carmo and Igreja das Carmelitas

The twin churches are famous for their stunning façades and a tiny house sandwiched between them, which is said to be the narrowest house in Porto. Cats can usually be seen lounging in this picturesque area.

Igreja do Carmo was founded in the late 18th century and boasts a Baroque style façade adorned with ornate detailing and elaborate sculptures. In contrast, Igreja das Carmelitas, built slightly later in the 19th century, exhibits a more restrained neoclassical design with a refined symmetry that speaks to the prevailing architectural tastes of its time.

The narrow house nestled between these twin churches is known as the “Casa dos Vinte e Quatro” (House of the Twenty-Four). The story behind this narrow dwelling dates back to a historical feud between the Carmelite monks of Igreja das Carmelitas and the city council, known as the “Twenty-Four.” To symbolize the resolution of the conflict, the space between the churches was filled with this slender house, serving as a tangible testament to the compromise reached.

Address: Igreja do Carmo & Igreja das Carmelitas, Praça de Carlos Alberto, 4050-158 & 4050-161, Porto, Portugal.

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6. São Bento Railway Station

Known for its stunning azulejo (decorative ceramic tile) panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history, this iconic train station often sees a bunch of cats exploring its surroundings.

São Bento Railway Station was designed by the renowned Portuguese architect José Marques da Silva and completed in 1916.

Address: São Bento Railway Station, Praça Almeida Garrett 4000-069, Porto, Portugal.

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7. Rua de Miguel Bombarda

Rua de Miguel Bombarda features many art galleries and trendy boutiques, but this street is also a hotspot for cat sightings, particularly near cozy cafés and art spaces.

Named after the 19th-century Portuguese painter Miguel Bombarda, the street has evolved into a hub for contemporary art and innovative expression. It even has become like a canvas itself, with colorful street art adorning walls and facades.

The First Thursday events, during which art galleries and shops stay open late and host simultaneous openings, have turned Rua de Miguel Bombarda into a focal point of Porto’s cultural calendar, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique and immersive artistic experience.

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8. Café dos Gatos

Permanently closed!

For a truly immersive cat lover’s experience, Café dos Gatos, meaning “Café of Cats,” is the purr-fect destination. This cat café offers a delightful blend of cozy café vibes and feline companionship, allowing you to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while surrounded by a group of friendly and playful cats.

Café dos Gatos collaborates with local cat welfare organizations to provide a loving home for rescued cats, making it a heartwarming space that supports a meaningful cause. Whether you’re seeking a moment of relaxation or a chance to bond with furry friends, this café offers a unique and memorable experience that cat lovers will cherish.

Address: Café dos Gatos, Rua de Cedofeita 24, 4050-173 Porto, Portugal.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm, and Saturday from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm. Café dos Gatos is closed on Sunday.

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9 O Porto Dos Gatos

O Porto Dos Gatos is the new cat café in town.

The concept is the same as with Café Dos Gatos: It combines the idea of a traditional café with the mission of finding permanent homes for rescued or shelter cats. That means that the cats that hang out at O Porto Dos Gatos are available for adoption. You can spend quality time with them at the café, assess their personalities, and potentially provide them with a forever home.

The establishment also aims to promote vegetarianism. They have a lot of delicious options, but their specialty is “francesinhas,” a Portuguese sandwich which originated in Porto.

All their dishes are also cat-themed.  It’s impossible to resist snacks with such names as “gatinhos da horta,” “cogumelos à Bolhão Gato,” “tostas Van Turco,” or “francesinhas à Europeu Comum.”

Address: O Porto dos Gatos, Avenida Rodrigues de Freitas, n’93-95, Porto, Portugal 4000-420.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm, Friday between 02:30 pm to 11:30 pm, and Saturday from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm. Closed on Sundays;

To stay updated about all the new cat cafés in Porto, check out our article Your Ultimate Guide to Cat Cafés in Portugal.

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10. Parque da Cidade

Covering an expansive area of around 83 hectares, this park is not only the largest green space in Porto but also one of the largest city parks in all of Portugal.

The origins of Parque da Cidade date back to the late 20th century when Porto was undergoing significant urban development. The park was officially inaugurated in 1993 as a means of providing the city’s residents with a serene haven away from the urban hustle and bustle. The park’s design and layout were conceived to create a balance between open spaces, landscaped gardens, and wooded areas, offering a diverse range of environments for relaxation and leisure.

There is also an aquarium within the park – Sea Life Porto – which offers an immersive underwater experience with a diverse range of marine species.

Porto’s largest urban park provides ample green space for cats to explore, especially in quieter areas away from the main paths.

Address: Parque da Cidade do Porto, Estr. da Circunvalação 15443, Porto, Portugal.

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11. Miradouro da Vitória

This famous miradouro offers panoramic views of Porto’s old town and the Douro River. Cats can usually be spotted in the gardens.

Address: Miradouro da Vitória, Largo da Vitória 4050-625, Porto, Portugal.

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12. Rua Afonso Martins Alho

Rua Afonso Martins Alho is often been referred to as the smallest street in Porto.” Here, you can find a Liqen mural, titled “Perspéntico,” which shows a cat carrying buildings on its back and represents the city as a dynamic and moving place. The artist aimed to highlight the importance and strength of nature compared to human-made structures. It includes many subtle references, such as a computer cable in the cat’s mouth and a tourist’s skeleton, to express his views on globalization and technological progress.

The mural, situated between the densely populated Rúa das Flores and Rúa Mouzinho da Silveira.

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Final Thoughts

Porto is Portugal’s second largest city and is built into the surrounding hillside cliffs, overlooking the Douro river. Picturesque and charismatic, with an endless supply of treasures waiting to be discovered by the avid traveler, Porto’s attractions and landmarks not only showcase the city’s rich history and cultural heritage but also celebrate its feline inhabitants.

There is so much to see in Porto if you love cats. From the charming streets of Ribeira to the tranquil embrace of Jardim do Palácio de Cristal, and the literary haven of Livraria Lello, Porto offers a variety of cat-friendly spaces that are sure to fascinate cat lovers from around the world. As you explore these feline-filled destinations, you’ll not only create lasting memories but also forge heartwarming connections with the cats that call Porto home.

Looking for even more things to do in Porto besides these cat-centric activities? Then check out this article on what to do in Porto.

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Porto vs Lisbon

Many travelers often ponder whether Lisbon or Porto offers the best opportunities for cat-spotting experiences. If you’re seeking to make an informed decision, we’ve also compiled an article spotlighting Lisbon’s array of cat-centered activities, allowing you to compare both cities and choose the perfect feline-friendly destination for your adventure.

However, why not consider embracing both Porto and Lisbon in a single vacation? The journey connecting these two cities typically spans around 2.5 to 3 hours by train or approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by car. For those seeking an even swifter option, domestic flights connecting Porto and Lisbon are readily available, ensuring a quicker travel time that often hovers around 1 hour or less.

Photos by Claudia Mannes

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English version / version française

 

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What to see in Porto if you love cats?

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