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AVENIDA DOS ALIADOS

The central boulevard of Avenida dos Aliados is the beating heart of Porto. Comprising two adjoining squares the Praca da Liberdade at the southern end to the impressive Camara Municipal (city hall) at its northern edge in the Praça General Humberto Delgado. Originally Avenida dos Aliados was the centre of the financial district and home to many banking corporations. Today it is where many events are held, such as New Year festivities, celebrating a win by FC Porto or welcoming a visiting pope or monarch. With MADABOUTPORTO.COM as your guide, you'll learn the best places to eat, and sleep, how to get there and what to do once you're there.

ABOUT

There is a Parisian feel about the Avenida dos Aliados due mainly to the French Neoclassical-styled buildings that line its perimeter. Aliados is a remnant of Porto's bourgeois past. Along with banks and luxury hotels, top restaurants (including the historical Guarany) are located here. Avenida dos Aliados meaning "Avenue of the Allies", is a dedication to the victorious Allied Nations from the First World War, in which Portugal participated.

Originally the central promenade was grassed over and landscaped, but in 2005 it was remodelled by renowned architects Siza Vieira and Souto de Moura. Taking advantage of a huge hole formed by the construction of a new metro station, Avenida dos Aliados was concreted. This allowed traffic to flow through it and provided central Porto with a space to hots large public events. In May 2010, Pope Benedict XVI celebrated mass here with about 150 thousand people.

The old tram #22 cuts through Avenida dos Aliados. Its anti-clockwise route can be joined at the lower end by the InterContinental Porto - Palacio Das Cardosas hotel, heading towards Batalha. Halfway up the avenue, close to the Hotel Aliados, the tram heads towards Carmo. Timetable

Avenida dos Aliados

Dom Pedro IV Monument - Avenida dos Aliados

CITY HALL

Town Hall

Câmara Municipal do Porto (City Hall) - Avenida dos Aliados

Yellow Bus Tour

Overlooking the Praça General Humberto Delgado, at the northern end of the Avenida dos Aliados, is the mighty seventy metre tall carillon clock tower on top of the city hall building. Constructed from granite and marble in the French style. Construction began in 1920 and took thirty years to complete. The building consists of six floors, a basement and two courtyards. Its finely furnished rooms are still used today for state functions, formal events, weddings and council meetings.

You are allowed entry on the 1st Sunday of each month. Visits must be booked in advance; see contact details below. Once in the entrance hall and central stairway, marvel at the romantic-style paintings decorating the ceiling and the murals on the walls. If you're feeling fit you can climb the clocktower's 180 steps, the view from the top rival those from the Clerigos Tower.

Standing in the square directly in front of the City Hall is a statue of Portuguese writer Almeida Garrett looking skyward created by Salvador Barata Feyo.

Visits: First Sunday each month
Entrance: €2.10
Praça do General Humberto Delgado, 4049-001 Porto, Portugal
41º 09' 00.3" N | 08º 36' 38.5" W | +351 222 090 400
gabinete.municipe@cm-porto.pt |  Website

GUARANY CAFÉ - RESTAURANT

Located below the Aliados Hotel, this famous establishment first opened its doors in 1933. The interior was designed by the architect Rogério de Azevedo. The sculptor Henrique Moreira was employed to carve the marble decorations including a South American "Guarany" Indian. It represents Brazil where the beans for their renowned coffee originated from. This tropical theme is in fact seen throughout the interior. Two impressive canvases by the painter Graça de Morais called “The Lords of the Amazon” hang on a wall depicting the daily life of the Guarany tribe.

Guarany was known as the "musicians coffee shop", it's known for its live performances by local artists and from its own resident orchestra. The café obtained a somewhat Bohemian ambience and today hosts Fado evenings on Thursdays and Saturdays. To take a meal or a coffee here is to experience the Avenida dos Aliados in its heyday and the seating outside are ideally placed for day-time people watching.

Daily 09h00 - 24h00
85/89 Avenida dos Aliados, 4000-066, Porto, Portugal. | 41° 08' 51.8" N | 08° 36' 41.1" W
+351 223 321 272 | guarany@mail.telepac.pt |  Website

Guarany Café/Restaurant

Guarany Café/Restaurant

TOP PORTO TOURS

The Best of Porto: 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour

Best of Porto: 3Hr Guided Walking Tour

Delve into the rich history of Porto alongside a professional guide on this immersive Porto walking tour. Experience northern Portugal’s historic city of Porto, known for its winding, narrow streets and blend of Moorish and Roman influences. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic city centre, explore Porto Cathedral and baroque churches, and learn how grapes travelled the Douro River to the coast where winemakers make famous Port wine.

(1,692) | 3 Hr | ✔ Free Cancellation

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3-Hour Best of Porto Segway Tour - Guided Experience

Best of Porto: 3Hr Guided Segway Tour

Zip along the UNESCO-listed Ribeira neighbourhood during a guided Segway tour of Porto. Select a small-group or private tour in the morning or afternoon and glide along cobblestone paths lined with historic monuments and attractions such as Ponte de Dom Luis I, Porto Cathedral, São Bento Station, and Clérigos Tower. With your local guide, appreciate architecture and uncover Roman legend all on a sleek electric Segway.

(279) | 3 Hr | ✔ Free Cancellation

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Porto Downtown and Sightseeing Bike Tour

Porto Downtown: Sightseeing Bike Tour

Get your adrenaline pumping while seeing Northern Portugal on this small-group Porto extreme city bike tour. Cycle through the city and see its history, architecture, culture, and gardens. An expert guide leads the way past historic landmarks. Along the way, break for lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant (additional expense). Travellers on this small-group tour are limited to ensure a quality experience. Private tours are available.

(62) | 8 Hr | ✔ Free Cancellation

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WHERE TO EAT ON THE AVENIDA DOS ALIADOS

Cafe Lounge Casal

Cafe Lounge Casal

A great choice for fussy eaters and large groups alike as the menu is vast and varied. The decor is well thought out and the atmosphere very friendly. Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the dessert menu and the one taking care of the bill will be happy too as the prices are very reasonable considering the quality of the food and, indeed, the restaurants favourable location. It's two floors are frequented by locals and tourists alike and both types of cliental are equally welcomed by the jovial waiting staff.

Tuesday – Thursday & Sunday: 12h00 – 00h00, Friday & Saturday: 12h00 – 02h00, Monday: CLOSED
Avenida dos Aliados 42-54, Porto 4000-064, Portugal
41º 08' 50.8" N | 08º 36' 38.8" W
+351 222 018 316
casal.sede@gmail.com

Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe - Porto

The Soul of Rock is Invictus. Combining Porto’s strong sense of history with the irreverence and character of the Hard Rock brand, Hard Rock Cafe Porto provides a fascinating and charming dining opportunity in the second largest city in Portugal. Known for its wine and elected for the third time this decade as the “Best European Destination,” Porto is adding Hard Rock Cafe to its diverse landscape that joins old-world charm with proud millennial traditions to form a complete and global city.

Take one bite of their Legendary® Burger and you’ll know you came to the right place. Whether you’re dining with your best friend or your entire family, they have space for you. Their completely remodeled venue has a total area of 1450m2, with a capacity for anywhere from 250 to 400 people. Dine in style while enjoying their burgers, salads, and cocktails, and experience rock and roll history while seated among the unique memorabilia of Hard Rock International

Sunday - Thursday: 12h00 - 24h00, Friday & Saturay: 12h00 - 01h00
Rua Do Almada, 120, 4050-031 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08' 49.8" N | 08º 36' 43.1" W
+351 227 664 470
info@hrcporto.com |  Website

Miss Pavlova

Miss Pavlova

A nice bakery and café, good for breakfast, brunch and a coffee stop. A cosy little hide away where you’re sure to get a tasty meal for a very reasonable price. Sheer heaven if you have a sweet tooth.

Tuesday - Sunday: 10h00 - 18h00, Monday: CLOSED
Rua do Almada 13, Porto 4050-036, Portugal
41º 08' 53.5" N | 08º 36' 43.8" W
+351 221 123 618
porto@misspavlova.pt | Website

WHERE TO STAY ON THE AVENIDA DOS ALIADOS

InterContinental Porto ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

8.6/10 Fabulous (657 verified customer reviews)

Set in a renovated 18th-century palace, the 5-star InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas offers spacious rooms with views of Porto’s historical centre. Located 200 yards from the iconic Clérigos Tower, this hotel provides free WiFi in all areas. Featuring high ceilings, Palacio’s stylish rooms offer flat-screen TVs. Marble bathrooms include a separate bathtub and walk-in shower. Some rooms feature a seating area with plush chairs. Guests can work out at the 24-hour Fitness Centre, which is equipped with the latest equipment and weights. The on-site spa has 3 treatment rooms and a sauna.

Praca da Liberdade, 25, União de Freguesias do Centro, 4000-322 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08' 45.1" N | 08º 36' 41.5" W

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InterContinental Porto

Hotel Paulista ★ ★

7.6/10 Good (2,249 verified customer reviews)

Situated opposite the Aliados Metro Station and next to Porto City Hall, Hotel Paulista features free Wi-Fi and rooms with satellite TV. The hotel’s breakfast room has an adjoining bar. All rooms at Paulista are equipped with a telephone and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Some rooms also have air conditioning. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet daily. For lunch and dinner, the 24-hour reception staff can recommend surrounding restaurants and cafés. They can also take care of your laundry.

Avenida dos Aliados 210, União de Freguesias do Centro, 4000-065 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08' 55.6" N | 08º 36' 37.5" W

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Hotel Paulista

Maison Albar - Le Monumental Palace ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

9.4/10 Superb (396 verified customer reviews)

Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Maison Albar - Le Monumental Palace. Located a 3-minute walk from Paris Galleries Street, Maison Albar - Le Monumental Palace offers 5-star accommodations in Porto and is located in a renovated historic building from 1923. The property has two restaurants, a bar, indoor swimming pool and a Spa & Wellness Centre. The hotel is close to several noted attractions, around 400 metres from City Market Bolhao and around 400 metres from Clerigos Tower. Free WiFi is available. The property features rooms and suites, all equipped with a coffee machine and a private bathroom with a shower. All units are equipped with a seating area. A buffet breakfast is served every morning at the breakfast room. Guests can enjoy Japanese cuisine at the Yakuza Porto by Olivier and gourmet meals at the Michelin-starred Le Monument restaurant. The American bar serves snacks. Maison Albar - Le Monumental Palace offers a range of wellness facilities including a sauna and an indoor pool, hammam and a fitness centre. Staff at the 24-hour front desk can provide tips on the area. Le Monumental features a library lounge and a comfortable TV room.

Avenida dos Aliados, 151, União de Freguesias do Centro, 4000-067 Porto, Portugal.
41° 08' 55.1" N | 08° 36' 40.5" W | +351 255 431 036

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Maison Albar - Le Monumental Palace
Booking.com

PRAÇA DA LIBERDADE

Praça da Liberdade

Ardina - The Newspaper Vendor Statue

Statue of King Pedro IV

At the lower end of the avenue is the Praça da Liberdade. A square dominated by a statue of a mounted King Pedro IV. It took the French sculptor Anatole Calmels four years to complete and was inaugurated on 19th October 1866. The statue consists of Pedro IV riding his horse holding the Constitution, which he had fought to protect during the Liberal Wars.

Ardina - The Newspaper Vendor Statue

Look out for a curious life-sized bronze statue of an "Ardina" (newspaper seller) leaning up against a traditional red postbox in the Southeast corner of the square. The work is a tribute to Manuel Dias and is dedicated to the low-paid newspaper sellers who once were a common sight close to the former headquarters of the O Comércio do Porto daily paper. Since its inauguration in 1990, the statue has survived many collisions by careless drivers and underwent major repair in 2004.

McDonalds

Mc Donalds - Café Imperial

Café Imperial - McDonalds

Often cited as the most beautiful McDonald's in the world, the branch in Avenida dos Aliados is located within the former Café Imperial. At the entrance, straddled above McDonald's Helvetica logo, is the original giant bronze eagle by Portuguese sculptor Henrique Moreira. Apart from the removal of a large rotating door, much of the frontage of the building remains as it was when Café Imperial first opened in 1936.

Those not gazing at the illuminated food menu would be aghast by the huge stained glass wall behind the counter. The ceiling retains the original ornate plasterwork from which crystal chandeliers hang. When McDonald's took over the crumbling old çafé in the 90's they restored the building, maintaining and accentuating its original features. The place can get very busy and taking photos inside can be a challenge. As for the food and service… well it's McDonald's. I would say the breakfast menu of Portuguese McDonalds is pretty good as it contains more variation of meals and coffees than in the UK or US.

Daily 08h00 - 02h00
Praça da Liberdade 126, 4000-322 Porto, Portugal. | 41° 08' 48.1" N | 08° 36' 38.8" W
+351 222 013 248 |  Website

HOW TO ARRIVE TO THE AVENIDA DOS ALIADOS

Andente Card

Andante is the smart ticket system for Porto's public transport. It can be used for the tram/metro (Metro do Porto), buses (Espirito Santo, Maia Transportes, Resende, STCP ), Funicular dos Guindais and suburban trains (Comboios de Portugal).

You can buy and reload the card at the multilingual machines in every tram stop, at mobility shops located in the main transport interfaces or at many newspaper and shops identified with the Payshop symbol. When buying the card you will need to choose the type of ticket you'll be filling it with. Fares are dependent on the zones you need to cross during your travel. The card must be validated at the yellow machines located in every metro and train stations or inside the buses. You need to validate the ticket each time you change transport |  Website

Andente Card

Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport Porto is 17.5km (10.9 miles) North of the Baixa District Website

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From Lisbon and south:
Take the A1 in the direction of Ponte do Freixo. Take the exit toward Freixo-Gondomar/Entre-os-rios. At the second roundabout, head to Porto (marginal). Follow Douro river and head to the tunnel next to Dom Luis I Bridge and then take the first left.
From Porto International Airport: Take the IC24/A41 and then to IC1/A28.
Latitude - 41° 41' 33.6" N Longitude - 08° 49' 45.9" W

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Linha do Minho
Regular trains to/from the Minho region including Barcelos, Viana do Castelo and Valença from Porto Campanhã, use the Regional train service (comboios regionais) Linha do Minho:
Train Timetable

Linha do Douro
When the line first opened in 1887 it was an engineering marvel as it follows the course of the river and up through the dramatic landscapes of the Alto Douro where vineyards are carved into terraces from the living bedrock. Although the branch lines have closed the Linha do Douro is still very impressive and a great way to spend a day. Regular trains leave São Bento and Campanhã and passes 20 tunnels, 30 bridges and 34 stations. The line becomes more dramatic after the town of Régua on to the pretty wine towns of Pinhão (one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal), Tua and terminating at Pocinho, (close to the Cão Valley rock art). A picturesque steam train runs along the Linha do Douro on Saturdays from May to October: Train Timetable

Linha do Aveiro
Urban trains (urbanos) run between Porto and Aveiro along the coast, stopping at resorts such as Ovar, Espinho, and Miramar. Onward connects can be made to Coimbra from Aveiro:
Train Timetable

Linha do Braga
Regular urban trains (urbanos) run between Porto and the Minho's capital city of Braga: Train Timetable

Linha de Guimarães
Regular urban trains (urbanos) run between Porto and the beautiful town of Guimarães: Train Timetable

Alfa Pendular
A high speed train service connecting cities the whole length of Portugal from Faro in the Algarve, Lisbon, Aveiro, Coimbra and Porto: Train Timetable

Comboios de Portugal Comboios de Portugal Website

Metro do Porto. Downtown Porto is well served by the Metro, at it's heart is Trindade a hub for all Metro lines and mainline railway. Website

STCP (Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto) is the company who run the bus and what's left of the tram service in and around Porto. Website

Rede Expressos run services National services to Porto from various locations within Portugal. Website

Rodonorte is a coach company servicing North & Central Portugal Website

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