Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello

  • 7 tours & experiences
Livraria Lello

Latest reviews

  • Porto Tour: Lello Bookshop, Boat Trip + Gaia Cable Car
    10.00 11/11/2025
    Dianne
    United States
    I travelled by myself
  • Porto Free Evening Tour
    10.00 11/03/2025
    Renee
    Charleston , United States

    Francesco was amazing and provided an informative and interesting tour of the nighttime sites of Porto. Please note that this tour involves a lot of walking - up and down hills and on cobblestones. We would definitely recommend! Thanks Francesco!

    I travelled with friends
  • Porto Free Evening Tour
    10.00 09/18/2025
    Yue
    United Kingdom

    I travelled with friends
7 excursions and activities at the Livraria Lello
10 activities near the Livraria Lello
17 activities
Showing 1-17

More information

Located in the historic center of Porto, Livraria Lello is one of the world’s most famous bookstores. Its ornate interior and literary legacy make it a must-see for book lovers and architecture fans alike.

Background and history

Founded in 1906, Livraria Lello was designed in a Neo-Gothic style with strong Art Nouveau influences. Its carved wooden shelves, stained glass skylight and sweeping red staircase reflect the cultural ambition of early 20th-century Porto. Over time, the bookstore became a meeting place for writers, intellectuals and readers from across the city.

Why visit

Livraria Lello is as much about the space as the books. Visitors come to admire the dramatic staircase, detailed woodwork and colorful ceiling, often cited among the most beautiful bookstore interiors in the world. The visit is brief but memorable, especially for those interested in design, literature and photography.

How to experience it with Civitatis

With Civitatis, you can visit Livraria Lello as part of guided tours of Porto’s historic center or with pre-booked entry options. These experiences help you manage queues and fit the visit smoothly into a wider sightseeing itinerary.

Did you know...

Livraria Lello is often linked to J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto in the 1990s, although the connection is more anecdotal than official.

Other interesting attractions in Porto

São Bento Railway Station Porto Cathedral Praça da Batalha
Select a list of favourites

  • Create a new list