The Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos) is the symbol of Porto's old town, a Baroque bell tower designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni and built between 1754 and 1763. At about 75.6 m it was the tallest structure in Portugal when completed, and it forms part of the Clérigos Church complex. Climb the narrow spiral staircase to the top for a 360° panorama over Porto's rooftops, the Douro River, the Cathedral and the Foz coastline.
A 360° viewpoint over Porto's red rooftops, the Douro River and the city, reached by climbing roughly 225–240 narrow spiral steps
An octagonal Baroque bell tower designed by Nicolau Nasoni, with a granite façade adorned with statues of saints and allegorical figures
Admission includes the Clérigos Museum, holding religious and artistic works spanning the 13th to 21st centuries
The interior of Clérigos Church, one of Portugal's early Baroque churches, notable for its curved elliptical floor plan
At night, 'Spiritus' — an immersive show inside the church combining 3D projections, lasers and orchestral music
Good to know
SafetyThe upper part of the tower, especially the final section, is very narrow and steep with two-way foot traffic. Skip the climb if you have heart or knee issues or are affected by claustrophobia or heights.
RulesLarge backpacks and luggage are not allowed up the narrow staircase. Travel light when you visit.
MannersAs part of a religious site, there is a dress code: shoulders and knees should be covered, and visitors should stay quiet during services or events.
SafetyPickpocketing is common in Porto's crowded tourist areas. Keep bags in front of you and watch your belongings in the entrance queue, on the packed stairs and on public transport.
CautionNear the nearby Dom Luís I Bridge, watch for young men on the railings shouting for €1–2 to 'jump,' and for overly friendly strangers who offer help and then demand money.
SeasonIt is busiest midday, roughly 11:00–12:00 and 13:30–15:00, with long waits in summer and at Easter and Christmas. Arriving before 10:00 means smaller crowds and cooler weather.
Practical info
Open daily 09:00–19:00 (extended to 23:00 in summer, Easter and Christmas seasons; last entry 30 min before closing). General admission is around €8, students aged 11–18 around €5, and children up to 10 free; the ticket combines tower and museum. Booking online in advance helps skip queues in peak season. Confirm current prices, hours and rules on the official website before your visit.
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