Igreja de São Francisco, Porto - a large church with a cross on the front of it
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Igreja de São Francisco Porto

4.4
·9k reviews·Porto, Portugal

A 14th-century Franciscan church in Porto, Portugal, famed for its breathtaking baroque interiors lavishly adorned with gold leaf.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Igreja de São Francisco, Porto - a large church with a cross on the front of it

Igreja de São Francisco Porto

Best Time

Late Afternoon

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 14th-century Franciscan church in Porto, Portugal, famed for its breathtaking baroque interiors lavishly adorned with gold leaf.

4.4
(9k reviews)

"The Igreja de São Francisco Porto is a stunning church, truly one of a kind, with 300 kilos of gold inside."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site

Purchase tickets at the entrance; no online booking usually needed.

📸 No Photos Inside Church

Photography is forbidden in the church, but allowed in the museum and catacombs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Altarpieces

Baroque Altarpieces

Main Church

Marvel at the opulent baroque altarpieces, adorned with an estimated 300 kilograms of gold.

Instagram+1
Franciscan Catacombs

Franciscan Catacombs

Underground Museum

Explore the solemn catacombs, the final resting place for Franciscan friars.

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Altarpiece of the Martyrs of Morocco

Altarpiece of the Martyrs of Morocco

Main Church

Witness the detailed depiction of Christian martyrs, including Franciscan missionaries.

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Planning Your Visit

Tickets & Entry Essentials

Tickets for the Igreja de São Francisco Porto are typically purchased on-site and include access to the museum and catacombs. While online booking isn't usually required, be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season. Reddit

Photography Restrictions

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the church itself. However, you can capture the beauty of the museum and the catacombs. Remember to respect the rules to preserve the sanctity of the space. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Early November
Why
Minimal queues, tranquil visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

▪️Separei meus lugares favoritos num roteiro de 10 dias pra aproveitar o melhor de Portugal! Lisboa Aconselho pelo menos 3 dias pra conseguir visitar os principais pontos da cidade. Destaque pro Castelo de São Jorge, o miradouro de Santa Luzia, a Praça do Comércio e a Torre de Belém. Prepara o tênis porque você vai andar muito 😜 Sintra Uma ótima opção pra um bate-volta a partir de Lisboa. Lá a bo...
@ocorreafoto
4.7K likes • 101.2K views

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site

Purchase tickets at the entrance; no online booking usually needed. Reddit+1

📸 No Photos Inside Church

Photography is forbidden in the church, but allowed in the museum and catacombs. Reddit

Retablo de los mártires franciscanos de Marruecos en la Iglesia de San Francisco en Oporto, Portugal #barroco #barrocoportugues #artesacro #artesacra #arquitecturareligiosa #retablo #retablobarroco #arssacra #porto #oporto
cespinosab01
52 likes • 0 views
Well it is the end of the journey through the Church of Saint Francis in Porto. This is the Catacombs of Saint Francis where the brothers of the order were buried. If you visit Porto, do not miss visiting this church. All my posts do not do this place justice. #porto #portugal #catacomb
wanderlust4evermore
33 likes • 0 views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially in the catacombs. TikTok

💰 Combo Ticket Value

The €10-12 ticket includes the church and museum; church-only tickets aren't sold. Reddit

“May it be that the secrets of the crypt remain forever hidden, guarding the whispers of the dead.” #crypt #secrets
madness_by_nuno_reis
27 likes • 527 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site

Purchase tickets at the entrance; no online booking usually needed. Reddit+1

📸 No Photos Inside Church

Photography is forbidden in the church, but allowed in the museum and catacombs. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially in the catacombs. TikTok

💰 Combo Ticket Value

The €10-12 ticket includes the church and museum; church-only tickets aren't sold. Reddit

♿ Accessibility Note

The church is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs at the entrance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Igreja de São Francisco Porto's incredibly ornate baroque interiors, particularly the extensive gold leaf detailing and intricate woodwork. The accompanying museum and catacombs are also highlighted as significant and worthwhile additions to the visit. Some reviewers note that certain areas of the building could benefit from restoration, and the strict no-photography rule inside the church is a common point of mention.

"A medieval church dating from the 13th century.
Some restorative work is needed as parts of the church building appeated worn and has seen better days.
We did see some restorative work being done in the museum.
No photography is allowed in the church.

The 11 Euro ticket covers entry to the church and the museum next door.
The catacombs are located in the museum.

An extra 1 Euro gives you an information booklet.

July 2025."

Don Ham

"Amazing church to see, but really interesting to also see the catacombs, and the tombs area in the underground area. Worth a visit for sure!"

arjan virdi

"This is a beautiful church! So ornate. Definitely worth checking out. You must purchase a ticket to enter the museum which includes a walk through the catacomb."

Christie McCarthy

What People Like

Stunning gold-leaf interiors
Ornate baroque altarpieces
Fascinating catacombs

What People Dislike

No photography inside church
Some areas need restoration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Igreja de São Francisco Porto is centrally located in Porto, Portugal. It's easily accessible by public transport, including trams and buses. Many visitors also choose to walk from other popular Porto attractions. TikTok

Parking in the immediate vicinity of the church can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transportation or a taxi/ride-sharing service. TikTok

From Porto Airport (OPO), you can take the Metro (Line E) to the city center and then transfer to a bus or tram, or take a taxi/ride-share directly to the church. TikTok

Yes, the Igreja de São Francisco is very close to the Ribeira district, making it a pleasant walk along the Douro River. TikTok

While official guided tours might not always be advertised, you can often find local guides in the area or opt for an audio guide with your ticket to learn more about the church's history and art. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets typically cost around €10-12 and include entry to both the church and the adjacent museum, which houses the catacombs. Church-only tickets are not sold. Reddit

Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the entrance to the museum. There's generally no need for advance online booking, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Reddit+1

The church and museum are generally open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, but it's always a good idea to check the latest hours before your visit. Reddit

In most cases, you can buy tickets upon arrival. However, if you're visiting during a very busy period, checking for any potential online options or arriving early might be wise. Reddit

No, the catacombs are included with your general admission ticket, which also grants access to the museum and the church. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main church area to preserve the artwork and atmosphere. Reddit

You are permitted to take photos within the museum and the catacombs. This allows you to capture the historical artifacts and the underground burial chambers. Reddit

While generally allowed, be mindful of any specific signage within the museum that might indicate areas where photography is restricted, especially near delicate exhibits. Reddit

Focus on the intricate details of the baroque altarpieces (from outside the church), the historical artifacts in the museum, and the atmospheric catacombs. Instagram+1

A smartphone with a good camera is usually sufficient for capturing the permitted areas. If you're a photography enthusiast, a dedicated camera might be preferred for better low-light performance in the catacombs. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The church boasts stunning baroque interiors, including altarpieces covered in gold leaf, intricate carvings, and beautiful tile work. The adjacent museum features historical artifacts and the solemn catacombs. Instagram+1

A visit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the church, museum, and catacombs at a comfortable pace. Reddit

Unfortunately, the church is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs at the entrance. The museum and catacombs may also present accessibility challenges. Reddit

The catacombs served as the burial site for Franciscan friars and notable individuals associated with the order, offering a glimpse into historical burial practices. Instagram+1

Yes, for an additional small fee (around 1 Euro), you can purchase an information booklet to enhance your understanding of the church and museum exhibits. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no restaurants within the church or museum complex itself. However, the surrounding area is filled with numerous dining options. TikTok

The Ribeira district, just a short walk away, offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes with views of the Douro River, serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. TikTok

Yes, you'll find many bakeries and small cafes in the vicinity offering pastries, sandwiches, and coffee, perfect for a quick refuel. TikTok

Absolutely! Look for dishes like Bacalhau (codfish), Francesinha (a hearty sandwich), and fresh seafood. TikTok

Dining prices can vary. While restaurants in prime Ribeira locations might be pricier, you can find more affordable options by exploring streets slightly away from the main tourist drag. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Igreja de São Francisco Porto offers a rich historical and artistic experience, it might be more suited for older children who can appreciate the art and history. The strict no photography rule inside the church could be challenging for younger ones. However, the museum and catacombs might capture their imagination, offering a slightly more engaging visual experience.

Consider focusing on the stories behind the altarpieces and the historical context of the catacombs. Bringing an information booklet can help make the visit more interactive. Be mindful of the accessibility issues; the church is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. If you have very young children, a shorter visit focusing on the most visually striking elements might be best.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Igreja de São Francisco Porto offers excellent value for money, as the ticket price (€10-12) includes access to both the church and the museum with its catacombs. This combo ticket allows you to experience multiple historical facets of the site for a single fee. Reddit

To maximize your budget, consider visiting during off-peak hours when crowds are thinner, potentially allowing for a more relaxed experience without feeling rushed. Since photography is prohibited inside the church, you won't feel pressured to buy expensive photo packages. The surrounding area offers a variety of affordable dining options, from local bakeries to casual eateries, allowing you to enjoy Porto's culinary scene without breaking the bank. TikTok

🏛️ History & Art Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and art, the Igreja de São Francisco Porto is an absolute must-visit. Its 14th-century origins and subsequent baroque transformations offer a fascinating timeline of architectural and artistic evolution. The sheer volume of gilded baroque ornamentation is unparalleled, showcasing the wealth and artistic prowess of Portugal during its golden age. Instagram+2

Delve into the narratives behind the altarpieces, particularly the Altarpiece of the Martyrs of Morocco, which tells a compelling story of faith and sacrifice. The catacombs provide a unique opportunity to connect with the site's historical past on a more personal level, offering insights into burial customs and the lives of the Franciscan order. The information booklet is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and artistic context of each element. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Golden Splendor: Baroque Artistry

The Igreja de São Francisco Porto is renowned for its breathtaking baroque interiors, a testament to the opulence of the 17th and 18th centuries. The church is famously adorned with an estimated 300 kilograms of gold leaf, meticulously applied to intricate wood carvings. This lavish decoration covers almost every surface, from the soaring ceilings to the elaborate altarpieces. The sheer scale and detail of the gilded woodwork are awe-inspiring, creating a dazzling and almost overwhelming visual experience for visitors. Instagram+2

Among the most striking features are the baroque altarpieces, each a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The Altarpiece of the Martyrs of Morocco, for instance, vividly depicts the martyrdom of Franciscan missionaries, showcasing dramatic scenes and detailed figures. Another notable piece is the Altarpiece of Our Lady of Solitude, which evokes a sense of solemnity and devotion. The artistry extends to the ceiling, where decorative elements and windows add to the overall grandeur. Instagram+1

While the church itself is a feast for the eyes, it's important to remember the no photography rule inside. This policy, while perhaps frustrating for some, helps preserve the sacred atmosphere and protect the delicate gilded surfaces. Visitors are encouraged to absorb the beauty through their own eyes and appreciate the historical and artistic significance of this golden sanctuary. Reddit

Beneath the Surface: The Catacombs

A significant part of the Igreja de São Francisco Porto experience lies beneath the church itself, in its solemn catacombs. These underground chambers served as the final resting place for Franciscan friars and other individuals connected to the order. Walking through the catacombs offers a stark contrast to the gilded splendor above, providing a more somber and reflective encounter with the church's history. Instagram+1

The catacombs are accessible through the adjacent museum, and visiting them is an integral part of the ticketed experience. Here, you'll find numerous tombs and burial niches, each telling a silent story of lives lived centuries ago. The atmosphere is hushed and reverent, inviting contemplation on mortality and the enduring legacy of faith. Instagram+1

While the catacombs are a powerful historical site, it's worth noting that they are not accessible for individuals with mobility issues due to the stairs involved. However, for those who can access them, the catacombs provide a unique and memorable dimension to the visit, complementing the visual richness of the church above. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Tickets and Practicalities

When planning your visit to the Igreja de São Francisco Porto, understanding the ticketing system is key. Tickets are typically purchased on-site at the entrance to the museum, which is connected to the church. The admission fee, usually around €10-12, covers entry to both the church and the museum, including the catacombs. It's worth noting that church-only tickets are not sold, so you'll always get access to the full experience. Reddit

Many travelers report that purchasing tickets upon arrival is straightforward, with minimal queues, especially if visiting in the late afternoon or during less busy months like early November. However, during peak tourist seasons, there might be a wait. While online booking isn't usually a necessity, it's always prudent to check for any updates or special circumstances before your trip. Reddit+1

Practical considerations include photography restrictions inside the church – no cameras or phones allowed. However, you can freely take photos in the museum and catacombs. Also, be aware that the church is not wheelchair accessible due to the presence of stairs. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking, particularly in the catacombs. Reddit

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