Palácio da Bolsa 🇵🇹

Step into 19th-century elegance at the Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa), a stunning historical landmark set in the UNESCO World Heritage historical centre of Porto. Built on the former ruins of the St Francis Convent by the city's Commercial Association, this Neoclassical masterpiece showcases impressive Neopalladian architectural roots inspired by classic local structures. As you explore its grand interior, which took decades to fully decorate and complete by 1910, you will encounter remarkable craftsmanship from renowned artists.

Walk through the Nations' Courtyard, framed by a soaring octagonal metallic dome featuring glass panels and painted coats-of-arms representing Portugal and its 19th-century trading partners. Ascend a sumptuous 1868 stairway embellished with ceiling frescoes and sculptured busts to access magnificent upper rooms, including the Golden Room, Assembly Room, and Tribunal Room, filled with period furniture and allegorical paintings. The undisputed highlight of your visit is the captivating Arab Room, built between 1862 and 1880 in an exotic Moorish Revival style, which serves as a majestic reception hall for visiting heads of state and dignitaries.

It offers travelers an unforgettable glimpse into Porto's rich cultural and commercial heritage.

What to see at Palácio da Bolsa

• Marvel at the exotic Moorish Revival architecture of the famous Arab Room.
• View the Nations' Courtyard topped by a massive glass and metallic octagonal dome.
• Ascend the grand 1868 stairway adorned with ceiling frescoes and sculpted busts.
• Admire period furniture and allegorical paintings inside the historic Tribunal and Golden Rooms.
• Explore a National Monument located right in Porto's UNESCO World Heritage historical centre.

Visiting tips

Make sure to look up while standing in the Nations' Courtyard to admire the painted coats-of-arms representing the countries that held commercial relations with Portugal in the 19th century.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Palácio da Bolsa is easy to reach on Porto’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Casa da Música and Porto Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Porto travel guide.