Just 8 kilometers from the center of Porto lies the coastal town of Matosinhos, with its fishing port and beaches where you can savor the finest local seafood specialties, stroll along the sand, go surfing, or embark on a hiking adventure. With its fish market and traditional restaurants, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture.
Matosinhos also offers several landmarks to explore, including the Castelo do Queijo (Cheese Castle), a 17th-century fort built to defend the town against the Spanish during the Restoration War. This remarkable site provides a stunning view of the coastline. Additionally, in Matosinhos, you can visit the municipal market for fresh fish and regional crafts, admire the modern sculpture She Changes made from fishing nets by artist Janel Echelma, and explore the Senhor do Padrão and the Church of Bom Jesus—two majestic religious buildings. The Sea Life Porto aquarium is a hit with children, and two coastal hiking trails allow more active visitors to enjoy scenic walks.
What to do in Matosinhos?
Sea Life Porto: Explore 32 aquariums featuring around 5,800 marine and freshwater creatures.
She Changes: A sculpture representing a massive fishing net.
Surfing spots: North of the Foz do Douro, discover two large sandy beaches—Matosinhos Sul and Leça da Palmeira—perfect for surfing.
