Despite appearances, with a historic centre on a human scale, Porto is a very large city comparable to Marseille; its inhabitants use to relax in very pretty parks all year long.
If you can only visit one, the Palácio de Cristal Gardens is a must. This park is perfect for a picnic, a romantic stroll or a ride with children who admire the peacock's wheel. Plant lovers will also be delighted by the beautiful palm trees and the rose garden. In the centre of the park stands an imposing green dome with an astonishing architecture housing exhibitions and fairs but Palacio de Cristal’s best assett is definitely the view of the Douro and Gaia . Enjoy it and watch the old tram on the road below. The change of scenery is guaranteed!
You may also like the small Parque das Virtudes nestled in the historic centre; it also offers great views of the city. Do not hesitate to stop for a drink at Árvore restaurant with a terrace overlooking the park. Beware the park closes its doors at 18h.
The main city park is on the border with the city of Matosinhos, it is the largest urban park in Portugal. The Parque da Cidade do Porto (city park in English) is a large park; it is popular with sportsmen and townspeople who like to come and relax on weekends. It has several ponds with ducks and birds. You can walk or bike there to the beach that communicates with the park.
Every year in June the Parque da Cidade is home to Primevera Sound, one of the best music festivals in Europe. June is a perfect time to visit the city.
Other parks are not to be missed: Jardim do Passeio Alegre in Foz is one of them.The pretty little park bordering the Douro ( the lighthouse is very near) houses a magnificent palm tree lane where you can admire a colony of parakeets nestling at the top of the trees. There is a miniature golf course for children and every Sunday a designer market in the park's main alley. The easiest way to get there is to take bus 500 from the city centre or the old tram along the River.
The Serralves Foundation Park is a real gem in the area of Foz, The entrance is not free but the park is really worth a visit! There is even a real farm inside the park. You can buy a ticket to the gardens only. The museum's restaurant, with its terrace overlooking the park, is an ideal place for a drink or lunch in a green setting.
Vila Nova de Gaia also has beautiful gardens very near our Porto Moments Apartments .The Jardim do Morro is unmissable: it is located right at the top bridge of the Luis I bridge next to the metro station of the same name. Recently renovated it has become a privileged place to admire the sunset over Porto.
The Parque Quinta das Devesas is a small park full of charm with a rich collection of Camellia (the park is also called Jardim das Camélias). Nestled in the cellar district of Porto it is an ideal place for a romantic picnic away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Porto.
If you like gardens we recommend you book our holiday apartment with garden in Porto.