Livraria Lello

The basics

Livraria Lello appears on many Porto tour itineraries that uncover highlights and hidden gems—from guided walking tours to themed Harry Potter excursions. Many tours offer fast-track admission to the bookstore, so you can explore its enchanting interior without spending hours waiting in line. Private tours provide tailored experiences that blend historical sites with port cellar visits. Whether you visit by tuk-tuk, electric bike, vintage car, or Segway, Livraria Lello is a must-see Porto sight.

Things to know before you go

• Admission is not allowed with travel bags, rucksacks, or strollers.

• Tickets to enter Livraria Lello can be purchased in advance to secure a preferred time slot.

• It is recommended to turn off the sound of your smartphone and refrain from making calls during your visit.

• Some parts of the Livario Lello can’t be accessed by wheelchair users (such as the second floor) but the staff can show you photos of what’s on the inaccessible floors.

How to get there

Because Livraria Lello is in Porto's historic quarter on Rua das Carmelitas, it's best to avoid driving to the Livraria Lello due to limited parking and narrow streets. Instead, you can walk or get a bus or tram to a nearby stop. The nearest tram stop is Carmo, and the closest bus stop is Cordoaria.

When to get there

To make the most of your visit to Livraria Lello in Porto, consider timing your visit during the quieter winter months, spring, or fall to avoid the largest crowds, especially in the high season (July and August). Long lines are common during peak hours, especially on weekends, so sometimes it’s best to come early on a weekday.

Harry Potter locations in Porto

Even though it's debated whether Livraria Lello inspired J.K. Rowling, Porto boasts other Harry Potter connections. Majestic Cafe is said to be where J.K Rowling wrote parts of her first book. Also, the city's university students don traditional Capa e Batina uniforms that remind Harry Potter fans of Hogwarts. Finally, Escovaria de Belomonte, a broom shop, is thought to resemble Diagon Alley's shops.