Matosinhos
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MATOSINHOS

Matosinhos is a city in its own right located North of Porto, at the mouth of the river Leça. References to Matosinhos date back to the 11th century under its ancient name of Matesinus. Remnants of iron age settlements have been unearthed within the area. The sea has played a major role in Matosinhos's development. Fishing and salt production is its traditional source of income.

Mad About Lisbon   TOP ATTRACTIONS OF MATOSINHOS

Beach

Matosinhos is the beach of choice for locals

Firemans Museum

A museum dedicated to the dedication and bravery of Portugal's firefighters.

Leça do Balio Monastery

A beautiful 10th century monastery in one of Porto's oldest districts

Super Bock Casa da Cerveja

Visit the factory and visitor centre of this iconic world beer brand.

ABOUT MATOSINHOS

Today Matosinhos is a busy container port, whilst fish canning factories and an oil refinery inhabit the dock areas. Albeit the industrial areas, there still remains much Matosinhos can offer visitors. Its beaches, the Nossa Senhora das Neves Fortress, the Piscina das Marés (seawater bathing pool), the Boa-Nova Lighthouse and the old town of Leça da Palmeira. Foodies are drawn here as Matosinhos' fishing tradition has resulted in the city having the highest concentration of restaurants per square metre in Europe, approximately 600 in total.

She Changes (Anémona "The Sea Anemone")

A reference to Matosinhos' fishing past can be found occupying a roundabout in the lower end of the city in the guise of a 50-metre tall sculpture. One could be forgiven when first encountering the structure that it's some kind of radio telescope. This impressive monument designed by Janet Echelman commemorates local fishermen when she created it from nets. Since the She Changes sculpture (also known as The Sea Anemone or Anémona), was unveiled in 2004 it has gained international acclaim and has become the symbol of Matosinhos.
Praça da Cidade de Salvador, Matosinhos, Porto, Portugal. | 41º 10' 28.0" N | 08º 41' 17.8" W

She Changes (Anémona The Sea Anemone)

|  She Changes (Anémona The Sea Anemone)

Senhor de (Lord of) Matosinhos church

|  Senhor de (Lord of) Matosinhos church



Senhor de (Lord of) Matosinhos church

Since construction started in 1542, it has undergone frequent renovations, most notably in 1732 when it acquired its current Baroque appearance as designed by architect Nicolau Nasoni. The main portal is topped with a medallion emblazoned with a seashell motif. Above which stands the entrecoupé pediment adorned with a cross. Standing on its flanks are the two domed clock and bell towers with niches that contain statues of St Peter and St Paul.
Much of the 18th-century alterations were carried out by the Porto sculptor Luís Pereira da Costa who was responsible for the gold-leafed carvings in both the nave and the main chapel. The interior is divided into three naves. The main nave contains an ornate gold gilded coffered ceiling and at its focal point above the altar is the statue of Bom Jesus which was moved here from the now lost 16th-century monastery of Bouças. The two-metre statue plays a major role during the Senhor de Matosinhos festival when it's paraded through the streets. Rua Silva Cunha 107, 4450-222, Matosinhos, Portugal. | 41º 11' 14.1" N | 08º 41' 03.3" W


Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos

Built between 1936 and 1946, this impressive domed custom-built building has been home to the Matosinhos municipal market since its conception. Brightly illuminated and on two floors, with the fishmongers on the ground floor (for ventilation purposes). On the upper level of the market, you'll find greengrocers, butchers, bakeries, speciality items, and some eateries. Easily accessed via the metro station opposite which bears its name "Mercado" and is located next to Leixões Port. The building underwent renovation in 2013 and has been listed as a building of public interest.
Monday: 07h00 - 14h00, Tuesday - Friday: 06h30 - 18h00, Saturday: 06h30 - 13h00.
Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos, Rua França Junior Ed. Mercado 4450, Matosinhos, Portugal.
41° 11' 14.9" N | 08° 41' 36.2" W

FAROL DA BOA NOVA LIGHTHOUSE

The Boa Nova Lighthouse, also known as the Farol de Leça is located in Leca da Palmeira between the mouths of the rivers Douro and Leça. Standing at 45 metres, it's Portugal's second tallest and the first electrified lighthouse in the North. Construction began in 1926 it started operation the following year. The Farol da Boa Nova Lighthouse replaced an earlier nearby lighthouse which went on to serve as a dormitory for students of the School of lighthouse keepers and later demolished. It was electrified in 1950 before being linked up to the national grid in 1964. 2003 it underwent renovation and now contains a small museum. It's possible to go inside and climb the 213 steps to the top and admire the incredible views. To save your knees, you can take the lift. The experience is free of charge. If the entrance is closed, simply ring the doorbell.

Close to the Lighthouse there is the Siza Vieira designed Boa-Nova Tea House, the Boa Nova Chapel and a statue of the poet António Nobre by Barata Feyo.
Avenida da Liberdade 4450, Leça da Palmeira, Portugal. | 41° 12' 04.9" N | 08° 42' 43.5" W


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Farol da Boa Nova Lighthouse

|  Farol da Boa Nova Lighthouse

TOP TOURS OF MATOSINHOS

Matosinhos Surf Lesson

Matosinhos Surf Lesson

This surf school has school operated in Praia de Matosinhos for 13 years and is ideal for beginners. The school has certified and certified teachers who will be present during the entire class. Their motto is to provide quality and safety education. The surf classes are in small groups of students maximum of six people per trainer so teaching is more personal. Come and learn surfing at the best school in Porto. Surfboard and suits are included.


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Wine & Food Extravaganza

Wine & Food Extravaganza

Portugal is home to some of the best wines in the world. Meet taste and get to know the main regions of Portugal in a tasting conducted by a WSET level 3 and cooking degree, where you can see the difference between wines and terroirs. This tasting is accompanied by great innovative tapas, by a renowned chef, all in the privacy of a tasting room. Fivve unique tailored tapas & five wines. This tasting is held in Matosinhos, the fishing city near Porto. It is considered to have the WORLD´S BEST FISH. Optionally, there can be a fish and seafood lunch or dinner, upon request and pricing.

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Porto and Matosinhos Small Group Tour with Douro Cruise, Lunch and Wine Tasting

Porto and Matosinhos Small Group Tour

The most complete one day tour to the cities of Porto and Matosinhos. A professional guide in a new comfortable vehicle equipped with air-conditioning will accompany you on an unforgettable journey. Lunch will take place at a typical restaurant. We will visit the Porto wine cellars of one of the widely respected producers on a global scale. Being next to the Douro River you will then take a boat trip across the six bridges. Leaving the historical centre behind we will head to Matosinhos.

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OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

Tryp Porto Expo

TRYP Porto Expo ★ ★ ★

Close to the airport and the Exponor exhibition centre, this is a great business choice and also a great base for visitors to the area. Also nearby is the shopping area, restaurants and beaches. There is also a good restaurant on-site as well as a small gym and pool. Clean, modern, friendly and comfortable, all you require from a mid-range hotel.

Rotunda da Exponor 4450-801, Matosinhos, Portugal. | 41º 12" 06.8' N | 08º 41" 35.9' W

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Pensão Central

Pensão Central

Ideally located close to the beach, restaurant and public transport for access to Porto centre. This is a warm and friendly B & B, offers typical welcoming Portuguese hospitality at competitive rates. It has a 24hr reception and a small bar for your convenience.

Rua Brito Capelo, 599, Matosinhos 4450-075, Portugal.
41º 10" 57.7' N | 08º 41" 24.9' W

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O Valentim Hotel

O Valentim Hotel

Situated within 450 yards of Matosinhos Market and a ten-minute walk of Matosinhos Beach, O Valentim Hotel in Matosinhos provides a terrace and rooms with free WiFi. Rooms come with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. O Valentim Hotel features some units with sea views from balconies.

Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental or a Full English/Irish breakfast. Various dining options are available at the in-house restaurant, including Portuguese, seafood and Mediterranean dishes.

Rua Gago Coutinho, 11, 4450-142 Matosinhos, Portugal. | 41º 11' 01.0" N | 08º 41' 42.7'' W

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OUR CHOICE

O Lusitano

O Lusitano

This inconspicuous family-run fish restaurant located on a side street doesn't visually stand out from the many other fine fish restaurants in Matosinhos. However, it is one of the finest examples in terms of quality, taste, friendliness and value. Fish caught that very same day is grilled to perfection on the outside charcoal grill. The staff are very welcoming and courteous who add to the pleasure of dining here.

Monday - Saturday: 12h00 - 15h30/19h30 - 23h00, Sunday: CLOSED
Rua Herois Franca 329, Matosinhos 4450-158, Portugal.
41º 10" 59.1' N | 08º 41" 41.6' W
+351 229 375 902
olusitanomatosinhos@hotmail.com |  Website


eLeBe Baixa

Marisqueira de Matosinhos

Following the tradition of seafood restaurants in Matosinhos but set within attractive renovated and modern surroundings setting a little more upmarket tone. Emphasis is on quality, professional service and a fine dining experience. Look out for a delicacy called "Percebes", or goose barnacles. They're so much tastier than they look. The wine list is well thought out and extensive.

Daily: 12h00 - 00h30, Wednesday: CLOSED
Rua Roberto Ivens 717, 4450-255, Matosinhos, Portugal.
41º 10" 52.6' N | 08º 41" 25.6' W
+351 229 381 763
geral@amarisqueiradematosinhos.com | Website


Sergio Crivelli - Pasta Fresca & Pizza

Sergio Crivelli - Pasta Fresca & Pizza

More than just an alternative to grilled fish, this is the real deal. Authentic Italian cuisine served with a homely and friendly service. Pasta is made fresh on the premises. There are even gluten-free options. A wide choice of pizzas, mains and deserts all conjured by an award-winning chef.

Monday - Saturday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 23h00, Sunday: CLOSED
705 Rua Brito Capelo, Matosinhos 4450-076, Portugal.
41º 10" 53.5' N | 08º 41" 23.0' W
+351 229 380 452
sergio@sergiocrivelli.com |  Website

Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport Porto is 11km (7 miles) North of Matosinhos Website

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From Lisbon and south:
Only 40 minutes from Porto along the A4. There are two exits for Amarante, clearly marked: Amarante West leads the area S. Lázaro and Santa Luzia, Amarante-East leads to the area of Queimado, Murtas and São Gonçalo.

Latitude - 41° 16' 10.5" N Longitude - 08° 04' 42.4" 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 Website

Metro: Line B runs from Porto (Estádio do Dragão) every 20 minutes and takes around 30 minutes. There are three stations in Matosinhos: Camara de Matosinhos, Brito Capelo and Matosinhos Mercado:
Metro do Porto Website & Timetables

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