Climbing the Clerigos Tower in Porto

The baroque Clérigos Tower is Porto’s most famous landmark, rising above the old town. Climb it for a 360-degree view over the rooftops, the river and the bridges. Here’s how to visit.

Quick answer: the tower is about 75 metres tall, with around 240 steps up a narrow spiral staircase. Buy tickets online, and go early or near closing time to avoid queues on the stairs. Allow about an hour, including the church and museum. Livraria Lello is next door. See Clérigos Tower tickets and tours.

About Clérigos

The Italian-born architect Nicolau Nasoni designed the church and tower in the 18th century. For a long time the tower was the tallest structure in Portugal, and it guided ships into the Douro. Nasoni is buried in the church.

What to see

• The view: from the top, see the cathedral, the river, Gaia’s port lodges and the Dom Luís I Bridge.
• The church: an oval baroque interior with an ornate altar.
• The museum: religious art in the old brotherhood rooms.

Tips

• Stairs: the staircase is narrow and steep, so it’s not ideal for claustrophobia or limited mobility.
• Light: late afternoon gives a golden glow over the rooftops.
• Combine: Livraria Lello, the Carmo church and the university area are steps away. See the Livraria Lello guide.

Other Porto views

See the best Porto viewpoints and Porto’s churches.

More: Porto in one day and things to do in Porto.

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