Complete Guide of Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello, Porto – The Ultimate Guide Livraria Lello is one of the most stunning bookshops in the world, located in the heart of Porto, Portugal. Known for its breathtaking Neo-Gothic architecture and its supposed inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, this bookshop is a must-visit for literature lovers and travellers alike. 🌴 Attractions Overview Livraria Lello is more than just a bookshop – it’s an experience. Highlights include: • Magnificent Interior – The grand wooden staircase, intricate carvings, and stained-glass ceiling make it feel like stepping into a magical world. • Rare & Special Editions – Find beautifully bound books, including collector’s editions of classics. • Harry Potter Connection – While Rowling has denied direct inspiration, many believe the bookshop influenced the look of Hogwarts. • Literary Events – Occasional author readings, book launches, and exhibitions. 📝 Tip: Book lovers should allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the shop’s details and explore its collections. 🗺️ Travel Guide 📍 Address: Rua das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. • Languages Spoken: Portuguese and English (staff are multilingual). • Local Currency: Euro (€) 📷 Photo Spots For the best Instagram-worthy shots: 📌 Grand Staircase – The centrepiece of the bookshop, its deep red colour contrasts beautifully with the dark wood. 📌 Stained-Glass Ceiling – Look up to see the stunning skylight with the Latin phrase “Decus in Labore” (Dignity in Work). 📌 Exterior Façade – A beautifully designed Art Nouveau-style entrance. 📝 Tip: Visit early or late to get clearer shots without the crowds. 🍜 Food Recommendations After visiting Livraria Lello, try these nearby food spots: 🥪 Café Majestic (10-min walk) – A historic café with elegant décor and delicious pastries. 🦐 Taberna dos Mercadores (15-min walk) – Excellent fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes. 🥓 Casa Guedes (12-min walk) – Famous for its pork sandwiches and local wines. ☕ Combi Coffee (5-min walk) – A great place for a speciality coffee break. 🍨🍦Amorinho (right next door to the library) - for a gelato or pastries and coffee 🎫 Tickets 🎟️ Entry Fee: Around €8, but the ticket price is deducted from any book purchase. 📌 Where to Buy: • Trip.com and earn some coins as well • Online (recommended to skip queues) via the official website. • At the ticket office near the bookshop. 📝 Tip: If you plan to buy a book, your ticket acts as a discount, so bring it with you!