Crimes & Mysteries

Discover Porto’s Dark Side with the Crimes & Mysteries Tour

The Crimes & Mysteries tour in Porto offers a captivating two-hour journey into the city’s most scandalous and chilling stories. Priced at $46.10 per person, this tour is perfect for those interested in the city’s hidden secrets, with a focus on dark tales of greed, love, lust, and death. The tour departs from Restaurante Carlos Alberto in Praça de Carlos Alberto and ends at São Bento Station, making it easy to incorporate into an evening outing. Guided by a local storyteller who claims to be the heir to poison recipes and serial killer stories unique to Porto, the experience promises both fear and fun.

This tour is highly recommended, holding a perfect 5-star rating from 10 reviews. It is booked an average of 24 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Travelers should note that the tour features mobile ticketing, and the entire experience runs in the evening, starting at 7:00 pm. While the tour is suitable for most, a cold weather dress code is advisable, especially for the outdoor stops.

Key Points

• Two-hour dark stories tour focusing on Porto’s crimes, legends, and scandals
• Starts at Praça de Carlos Alberto and concludes at São Bento Station
• Guided by a local storyteller with intimate knowledge of the city’s secrets
• Includes visits to Porto’s old prison, viewpoints, and the Jewish quarter
• Free alcohol welcome poison adds a quirky touch to the experience
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point at Praça de Carlos Alberto

The tour begins at Praca de Carlos Alberto, a seemingly welcoming square that hides many forgotten stories. It’s an ideal starting point to set the mood, as the guide introduces the dark tales lurking beneath Porto’s lively facade. The first stop offers a 15-minute exploration of this iconic square, where stories of the city’s past whispers quietly among its streets.

Visiting Porto’s Old Prison and Its Dark Stories

Passing by the old prison, the guide shares dark stories linked to Porto’s criminal history. You’ll hear about notorious figures and notorious crimes that once took place behind these walls. This segment aims to bring the city’s more sinister side into focus, blending history with storytelling.

Discovering the Infamous Crime Door

The tour leads to a well-known door associated with a famous crime driven by greed. Here, the guide relives an infamous murder, adding layers of scandal and intrigue. This part of the tour highlights how a single door can hold secrets of greed and treachery, making it a memorable story for fans of dark history.

Exploring the Viewpoint and Religious Sites

Next, the route takes visitors to a stunning viewpoint, offering scenic views of Porto’s skyline, all while the guide narrates tales of love, lust, and scandal connected to the city’s most beautiful spots. The journey also passes Clérigos Church, where the contrast between the church’s beauty and the dark stories told adds depth to the experience.

The Jewish Quarter and Hidden Histories

The Jewish quarter of Porto features in the tour’s narrative, revealing small stories of crimes and secrets kept within its streets. These stories shed light on the diverse history of Porto, blending cultural significance with tales of mystery and intrigue.

Ghosts and Strange Noises at São Bento Station

The tour culminates at São Bento Railway Station, famous not just for its architecture but also for stories of ghosts and strange noises. A quick 10-minute stop here allows the guide to share chilling tales about supernatural occurrences, making it an ideal spooky finale.

Expert Guide with Enthusiasm and Knowledge

Lorena, one of the praised guides, is known for her funny and engaging storytelling style. She makes the dark tales approachable and provides insightful commentary that keeps the group captivated. Her ability to make everyone feel comfortable adds a layer of warmth to this chilling adventure.

Practicalities and Tour Features

Included in the $46.10 fee are the tour with a local guide, delivered in your preferred language, and the quirky addition of Welcome Poison—an alcoholic beverage. The tour is designed to be accessible with service animals allowed and public transportation nearby. Group sizes are limited to 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Pacing, Duration, and Group Size

The two-hour duration offers a well-paced experience that balances storytelling with sightseeing. The tour begins at 7:00 pm, making it an excellent option for an evening activity. Given the most travelers book 24 days in advance, securing a spot early is recommended for this popular experience.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind. Should the weather turn poor, the tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling. The tour’s small group setting enhances safety and comfort, especially when exploring outdoor locations at night.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike typical city tours, Crimes & Mysteries emphasizes dark stories, supernatural legends, and criminal tales. It combines entertainment and education with scenic stops, making it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of horror. The enthusiastic storytelling and unique focus on Porto’s hidden crimes make it a standout experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits adults and older teens interested in mystery, crime stories, and ghostly legends. It’s perfect for history buffs, night owls, or anyone seeking an unconventional way to explore Porto after dark. The informal and lively atmosphere makes it a fun choice for groups of friends or couples.

Final Thoughts on the Porto Crimes & Mysteries Tour

The Crimes & Mysteries tour offers a unique lens on Porto that blends dark tales with scenic city views. The expert storytelling and engaging stops make it a memorable way to spend an evening. With a highly positive rating, it clearly appeals to those looking for a fun, spooky, and informative experience.

While the $46.10 price covers a lot of storytelling and scenic exploration, guests should be prepared for outdoor walking and a possibly chilly evening. This tour stands out for its enthralling stories, talented guides, and small-group intimacy—a perfect pick for crime and mystery enthusiasts visiting Porto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally designed for adults and older teens, given its dark themes and spooky stories.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, beginning at 7:00 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Restaurante Carlos Alberto in Praça de Carlos Alberto and ends at São Bento Railway Station.

Is there an age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but the dark nature of the stories may not suit very young children.

Are food or drinks included?
The tour includes alcoholic beverages with the Welcome Poison but does not include other food or drinks.

What is included in the price?
The local guide in your language and Welcome Poison are included; tips and personal expenses are not.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, especially for outdoor stops at night.

Is this tour good for photography?
While not explicitly stated, the scenic viewpoints and historic sites suggest good opportunities for photos.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made 24 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.