Crystal Palace

It is one of the most iconic green spaces of the city and includes the gardens of the Crystal Palace (built in the 1860s with granite, iron and glass), the Pavilion Rosa Mota (that replaced the Palace in 1956), the Quinta of the Macieirinha (where the Romantic Museum is located), and the Quinta Tait.

The romantic gardens, designed by architect Émile David are spread over 8 acres of exotic rare plants, large trees, rose gardens, fountains, a lake with ducks and swans, and a cafeteria with a terrace where proud peacocks surprise visitors. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Douro River and the sea, the gardens are still the home of the Almeida Garrett Municipal Library and of the Municipal Gallery of Porto.

Near the Crystal Palace, it is worth exploring the Arts Quarter – an area known for its dynamic art galleries - and walk through the Caminhos do Romântigo - five tracks of cultural and historical interest that connect to the riverside area and offer a better understanding of nineteenth century Porto.