If you’re visiting Porto, an essential stop on your itinerary should undoubtedly be the famous Porto Bookshop, “Livraria Lello.” Trust me, it’s one of those places that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. And no, it’s not just for book lovers (although, if you are one, you’ll feel like you’re in a dream).
Here’s why I recommend you visit and enjoy an experience that, I assure you, feels like walking through a magical place!

“Livraria Lello” – More Than Just a Porto Bookshop

Livraria Lello is famous for being one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world (and I’m not exaggerating!). Once you step inside, you’ll be faced with a stunning display of carved wood, stairs that look like they belong in a painting, and ceilings so intricate that, honestly, you could spend an hour just gazing at them. And then there’s the staircase: that famous one that leads to the upper floor. It’s truly an architectural masterpiece!
Walking up those stairs is an experience that will make you feel like Harry Potter on a quest for a new adventure!

There’s something magical in the air inside. The light filtering through the stained glass windows, the smell of books, and, of course, the beauty that surrounds you as you get lost in the pages of a great book. If you’re an avid reader, you’ll find yourself facing a little paradox: the desire to flip through every book (even if you don’t speak Portuguese) and the wish to simply admire the bookshop as if it were a living piece of art.

From the famous staircase that seems to come out of a movie to those decorated ceilings that will make you forget everything. For me, the true love-at-first-sight moment came when I stopped to admire the details: the carved wood, the stained glass windows, and that warm light filtering through in the morning.

The Porto Bookshop that inspired Harry Potter

Livraria Lello, the famous Porto Bookshop, is often associated with J.K. Rowling, the creator of the Harry Potter series. During her time living in Porto, teaching English, it’s said that Rowling often visited this fascinating bookshop, finding inspiration for the magical atmosphere of Hogwarts.

Indeed, the interior of Livraria Lello, with its architectural details, closely resembles the enchanted world of magic described in the books.
Although the author downplays the direct connection, for many fans, Harry Potter and the Porto Bookshop remain symbolically intertwined, making this place a must-visit for literature and magic enthusiasts.

How to Visit Livraria Lello Stress-Free (Or Almost)

Here’s a little secret: entry to Livraria Lello is by reservation only, which can be made with just a few clicks on their official website. So, even though the temptation to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds is strong, be aware that there’s always a good chance that 50-60 people will already be ready to enter with you. In other words, there’s no foolproof trick to avoid the line.
However, I do recommend booking early in the morning, when (theoretically) there are fewer people.

This Porto Bookshop can be quite crowded, I admit, but don’t let that scare you; just bring some patience.
The experience is worth every minute of waiting. If you want to take some photos, keep in mind that the beauty of the place is almost surreal, so don’t focus too much on perfect poses: simply let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere.

The Books of Livraria Lello

But the magic doesn’t stop there. Another feature that, in my opinion, makes the visit even more special are the books published directly by Livraria Lello. They are true collector’s items, and many of them are presented as real works of art.
If you’re a book lover, you won’t be able to ignore the excellent quality of the books published by Livraria Lello, displayed on every shelf.
Each volume is like a little treasure, deserving to be flipped through and appreciated.

How Much Does It Cost to Enter Livraria Lello?

The basic entrance fee is 10 euros, but don’t worry, you can easily redeem that amount by purchasing one of their books inside.
It’s a great way to take home a piece of this unique experience, don’t you think?

Livraria Lello isn’t just a Porto Bookshop; it’s an experience you absolutely must live. A bit touristy, yes, but undeniably fascinating! And as I said before: let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the place and enjoy every moment!
It doesn’t matter if there are many other people in line with you; the important thing is that you’ve experienced a corner of Porto that, in its own way, is truly magical. Who knows, maybe you’ll even find a book that changes your day.

After your visit, I recommend stopping at one of the many cafes in the city center. Porto is famous for its coffee, and after visiting the bookshop, you’ll surely feel like you need to recharge! If you want to dive deeper into other aspects of Porto, don’t miss the city’s gastronomic side and try some of the local dishes, or you can attend a Fado concert in one of the city’s clubs.

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