The city of Porto is full of little ‘treasures’, from the most beautiful bookshop in the world to one of the most legendary restaurants. In this scenario, Porto’s historic stores and oldest cafés also take pride of place. These are places that have survived the passage of time and keep their doors open to welcome locals and tourists.
Some of them are iconic and part of Porto’s façade. Their beauty is irrefutable, as is their history. Between meetings and get-togethers, these were some of the places chosen to discuss politics, developments in the city, or simply get together with friends from college for a moment of fun.
I’m sure you’re familiar with the ones we’re about to show you, but do you know what happened there?
Table Of Contents
Café Ceuta
Born in the 1950s, Café Ceuta has been one of Porto’s most emblematic businesses ever since. After closing for refurbishment and due to the pandemic, it has returned in force to liven up the evenings of Porto residents and visitors.
The space has a long history, as it has hosted gatherings of prominent figures. It was also the setting for a scene in the film “Porto”, directed by Brazilian filmmaker Gabriel Cinge. Today, Café Ceuta continues to be a popular stop for socializing and meals.
Where: Rua de Ceuta, 20
A Brasileira
The A Brasileira café is one of the most emblematic in the city of Porto. Founded in 1903 by Adriano Teles, this café established a new habit, which is now very popular: drinking coffee by the cup in public places.
As well as an exquisite space, the coffee was the star, coming directly from Brazil and produced in the roasting plant that Adriano opened in the city. Over the years, the café gained notoriety and became an obligatory hangout for Porto’s elite.
It was the café where writers, politicians, journalists, artists and bohemians gathered to discuss the cultural and national issues of the time.
The inscription “The best coffee is the Brazilian coffee” was the slogan created by Adriano Teles and still remains on the wall today.
Today, the café belongs to a 5-star hotel belonging to the Pestana Group.
Where: R. do Bonjardim, 116
Guarany
The historic Guarany café opened in January 1933, when a number of cafés were beginning to spring up in Porto. At the time, the aim was to renovate the Avenida dos Aliados, so its café was not chosen at random.
Being on Avenida dos Aliados gave the space greater visibility and the city’s intellectual and eclectic personalities began to gather there. Guarany thus became an important venue in Invicta.
The Guarany café retains the same location, inspiration and historical features and is still one of the most exquisite spaces in the city of Porto.
Where: Av. dos Aliados 85 89, Porto
Majestic
The Majestic is no stranger to anyone. Located on Rua de Santa Catarina, this café has been telling the city’s story since 1921, when it opened under the name “Elite”.
The name “Majestic” came about because of the combination of Parisian glamor and cultural elite that inspired Portuguese culture at the time. Thus, since the space was characteristic of the Belle Époque, with all its charm, it was decided that Majestic portrayed exactly what the café represented.
The beauty of the café never passed any Porto resident by, so it became the place where the most varied personalities gathered to discuss political, artistic and social issues over a cup of coffee.
The Café Majestic is still one of the main places in Porto today, having been renovated, but retaining the style and charm that characterized it at the time. It is one of the most visited cafés by tourists arriving in Porto.
Where: Rua Santa Catarina, 112
Café Piolho
Located near the iconic Fonte dos Leões, this is another of Porto’s oldest cafés. But did you know that the well-known “Café Piolho” is not officially called that?
Its ‘real’ name is Café Âncora d’Ouro and it opened its doors to the public in 1909, making it a century-old business.
Today, it’s one of the city’s best-known meeting places, whether it’s for a drink or a delicious francesinha.
In addition, “Piolho” is an obligatory stop for any student in Porto, and there are even plaques and messages from those who have been there.
Where: Praça de Parada Leitão, 45
Café Velasquez
Open since the 1970s, Café Velasquez is another well-known business among Porto residents.
Located near the Estádio do Dragão, during match days it is ‘invaded’ by soccer fans.
The café is open every day from 7 a.m. to midnight, serving lunch and dinner.
Where: Praça do Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro, 301
Among many others, these are the main and oldest cafés in Porto. All of them have known various personalities who have made a difference to the city’s history and political and cultural development.