the local guide

Matosinhos – Oporto following the Atlantic Ocean and Douro River (map)

Please check the path I followed in this post: HERE

Matosinhos

Fisherman along the coast - Matosinhos

Matosinhos is a city in the metropolitan area of Oporto. It’s located northwest of Oporto near the Atlantic Ocean. This location made the city a reference in fishing and sea transport industries but it is being converted into a tourism destination in the last years. It houses the biggest artificial port in Portugal: “Leixões” which was built in the end of the 19^th century and continuously improved until present day.

It is a regular destination for people from nearby Oporto city for jogging or biking along the coast line; for surfing; for drinks at the bars at the weekend; and because of the restaurants.

This connection between Matosinhos and the ocean lead to the creation of multiple restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood dishes.

Leaving "Matosinhos Sul" towards the beach

Leaving from “Matosinhos Sul” metro station and following the avenue towards West you’ll reach Matosinhos beach. During winter the sand is usually empty except for the surfers getting their daily fix from the sea (photos taken a few days ago… December). On the northern side of the beach there is a group of statues dedicated to the suffering of the wives and daughters who remain at land waiting for their men to return from the sea in times of storm.

“Praça da Cidade do Salvador”

Fisherman's roundabout

Also known as “Fisherman’s roundabout” has a giant hanging net in its center dedicated to the fisherman from Matosinhos. It is sometimes mistakenly referred to as “Anemone roundabout” because of the shape of the net.

Note: Photos taken 1st – 12th December, 2009