Casa do Infante, Porto - Old houses and a church tower in the distance in Porto, Portugal on a sunny spring day.
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Casa do Infante Porto

4.4
·461 reviews·Porto, Portugal

Discover Porto's maritime legacy at Casa do Infante, the historic customs house and reputed birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Casa do Infante, Porto - Old houses and a church tower in the distance in Porto, Portugal on a sunny spring day.

Casa do Infante Porto

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Porto's maritime legacy at Casa do Infante, the historic customs house and reputed birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator.

4.4
(461 reviews)

"It really got me more interested in the history of the city, Infante Henrique and to want to learn more about the Portuguese explorations."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free for Students!

Students get free admission, making it a great value for budget travelers and history buffs.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

Porto is hilly! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the museum and the surrounding Ribeira district.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator

Birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator

Main exhibition hall

Discover the historical significance of this building as the reputed birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in Portuguese exploration.

Reddit
Medieval Customs House History

Medieval Customs House History

Exhibition on customs house

Explore the fascinating history of Casa do Infante as a medieval customs house, integral to Porto's economic past and city walls.

Reddit
Interactive Exhibitions

Interactive Exhibitions

Throughout the museum

Engage with interactive displays and animations that bring Porto's Roman history and the Age of Discovery to life.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Times

While Casa do Infante isn't as crowded as some Porto attractions, booking tickets online can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Check for special events or exhibitions that might affect access or require separate tickets. Instagram

Embrace Porto's Hills

Porto is a city of hills, and Casa do Infante is no exception. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the historic center and the walk to the museum. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Catching the golden hour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So many things to do in Porto Portugal! 😍 In our Porto travel guide series we share 25 things to do in Porto including places to eat! #porto #thingstodo #travelportugal #portugal #travelguide #thingstodoinporto #Foodie
@hungrypursuit
38.9K likes • 1.1M views

🎯 Free for Students!

Students get free admission, making it a great value for budget travelers and history buffs. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

Porto is hilly! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the museum and the surrounding Ribeira district. TikTokReddit

Habéis visitado Oporto?😍🦋 #greenscreen #oporto #portugal #tips #travel #viaje #viajar #fyp #consejos
@carladomenechp
38.8K likes • 689.1K views
🎶 Concerto inaugural das Comemorações dos 700 anos da Casa do Infante | SETE LÁGRIMAS — PROJETO DIÁSPORA 🗓 DOM 16 MAR 2025 — 18H30 📍 CASA DO INFANTE O concerto inaugural com @setelagrimas assinala o início das comemorações dos 700 anos da Casa do Infante. Dirigido artisticamente por Filipe Faria e Sérgio Peixoto apresenta uma proposta musical que atravessa séculos de história e culturas, reflet...
museudoporto
128 likes • 0 views

⏳ Short Visit, Big Impact

Allocate about 20-30 minutes for a visit; it's a compact museum but packed with history. Reddit

🏛️ Part of City Museum

Casa do Infante is part of the Porto City Museum, offering insights into the city's rich past. Reddit

🇵🇹 Ao longo das últimas semanas os nossos alunos do 1.º Ciclo e dos 5 anos do ensino Pré escolar 👦🏽 visitaram a Casa do Infante, também conhecida como Casa da Rua da Alfândega Velha, situada na cidade do Porto. 🤴🏻📜 Ao longo desta experiência, os alunos foram desafiados a explorar diversos espaços onde a história e a contemporaneidade se cruzaram. 🧐 Temos a certeza que foi uma experiência diverti...
_escolaglobal
120 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free for Students!

Students get free admission, making it a great value for budget travelers and history buffs. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

Porto is hilly! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the museum and the surrounding Ribeira district. TikTokReddit

⏳ Short Visit, Big Impact

Allocate about 20-30 minutes for a visit; it's a compact museum but packed with history. Reddit

🏛️ Part of City Museum

Casa do Infante is part of the Porto City Museum, offering insights into the city's rich past. Reddit

📅 Check for Events

The museum hosts various events and exhibitions; check their schedule for special happenings. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.4
(461 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Casa do Infante to be a valuable and informative museum, particularly appreciating its historical significance as the birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator and its role as a former customs house. The interactive exhibits are a highlight, making the history of Porto and Portuguese exploration engaging. While some note the discussion of colonization could be updated, the overall experience is considered a great value, especially for students.

"Nice little museum. Among all the exhibitions displayed, I was very interested in the customs house history as part of Porto history."

Quynh Trang Tran

"I was lucky enough to join a guided tour that was planned for today. Rui was an excellent guide through the museum! I recommend this museum to anyone visiting Porto and those who live in Porto! It really got me more interested in the history of the city, Infante Henrique and to want to learn more about the Portuguese explorations."

James Portoraro

"Casa do Infante

Type: archeological museum
Price: 4 EUR
Time spent: 20 min
Parking: not available
Bike parking: not available
WC: available

Located one of the oldest buildings in Porto the house is considered to be the birthplace of Infante D.Henrique. It was a part of the Porto walls, that surrounded and protected the city, but also served as the custom house in order to collect taxes."

Oleh Shpytko

What People Like

Historical significance
Interactive exhibits
Great value for students

What People Dislike

Colonization discussion needs update

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Casa do Infante is located in the historic Ribeira district. You can reach it by walking from the city center or taking public transport. The #1 tram line from Ribeira stops nearby, offering a scenic route towards the coast. Reddit The 205 bus line also passes through the area, though it might go through less tourist-friendly parts of the city. Reddit

Parking directly at Casa do Infante is not available. It's recommended to use public transport or walk, as parking in the Ribeira area can be challenging and expensive. Reddit

While there's no dedicated bike parking at the museum itself, you might find options nearby. Cycling through Porto can be an adventure, but be prepared for hills and cobblestone streets. Reddit

The museum has WC facilities available. While the historic nature of the building might present some challenges, it's worth checking with the museum directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

From Porto Airport (OPO), you can take the Metro (Line E) to the city center and then transfer to a bus or tram, or take a taxi/ride-sharing service directly to the Ribeira district. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Porto City Museum website or their social media for the most up-to-date information. Instagram+1

General admission is typically around 4 EUR, but students often get free entry, making it a great deal. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or if there are special events, to avoid potential queues. TikTok

Yes, Casa do Infante is part of the Porto City Museum, offering a broader perspective on the city's history. Reddit

Guided tours are sometimes available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the building's history. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The main attraction is its historical significance as the reputed birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator and its role as a medieval customs house. The interactive exhibitions detailing Porto's history and the Age of Discovery are also highlights. Reddit

Most visitors spend around 20-30 minutes exploring the museum, as it's a relatively compact but informative site. Reddit

You can expect to see exhibits on the Roman history of Porto, the city's medieval walls, its function as a customs house, and the role of Portuguese explorers in global discovery. InstagramReddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage within the museum or ask staff if you're unsure about taking photos. TikTok

The building is one of the oldest in Porto and is considered a crucial historical landmark, embodying centuries of the city's development and maritime importance. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly inside Casa do Infante. However, the surrounding Ribeira district is brimming with cafes and restaurants offering traditional Portuguese cuisine. TikTok

The Ribeira area offers numerous dining options. For a quick bite or a more substantial meal, explore the waterfront or the charming side streets. TikTok

Absolutely! You're in Porto, the home of the famous Pastel de Nata. Many bakeries and cafes in the vicinity will offer this delicious treat. TikTok

Yes, while Ribeira can be tourist-oriented, you can find more affordable options by venturing a few streets away from the main waterfront. Look for local 'tascas' or cafes. TikTok

Don't leave Porto without trying a Francesinha, a hearty sandwich layered with meats, covered in melted cheese, and drenched in a rich tomato and beer sauce. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture of the historic building itself is photogenic. Inside, look for interesting details in the exhibits and any views of the Douro River from the windows. TikTok

The Ribeira district offers stunning views of the Douro River and the Dom Luís I Bridge. Sunset views from the riverbanks or nearby viewpoints are particularly popular. TikTok+1

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful light for photography in the Ribeira area. TikTok+1

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near historical sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for general sightseeing. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the cityscapes and narrow streets. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Casa do Infante offers an engaging experience for families, with interactive exhibitions that bring history to life through animations and engaging displays. Reddit It's a great place to introduce children to the exciting stories of Portuguese exploration and the city's past in a digestible format. The museum's manageable size means younger visitors won't get overwhelmed, and the historical context can spark curiosity about maritime adventures. Instagram

While there are no specific play areas, the surrounding Ribeira district offers plenty of space to run around, and the nearby riverfront provides opportunities for family-friendly activities. Consider combining your visit with a short tram ride on the #1 line, which is often a hit with kids. Reddit Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as Porto's hills can be a challenge for little legs. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Casa do Infante is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers, as students often receive free admission. Reddit Even for those who pay the modest entrance fee (around 4 EUR), it offers significant historical value for the price. The museum is part of the Porto City Museum, providing a rich cultural experience without a hefty cost. Reddit

To save further, consider utilizing public transport like the #1 tram for scenic and affordable journeys, or download the Bolt app for budget-friendly rides. TikTokReddit For dining, explore local 'tascas' or cafes away from the main tourist strips in Ribeira to find more economical and authentic meal options. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Casa do Infante

Casa do Infante is more than just a museum; it's a cornerstone of Porto's rich history. Reputedly the birthplace of Prince Henry the Navigator, a pivotal figure in the Portuguese Age of Discovery, the building stands as a testament to the city's maritime legacy. Reddit Its strategic location along the Douro River also meant it served as a medieval customs house, playing a crucial role in regulating trade and collecting taxes that fueled Porto's growth. Reddit Exploring its halls offers a tangible connection to these influential periods.

The museum's exhibitions delve into these historical layers, presenting Porto's journey from its Roman origins to its prominence as a hub for exploration. Visitors can learn about the city's ancient walls, the economic impact of the customs house, and the daring voyages that expanded the known world. The use of interactive displays and animations makes this historical narrative engaging and accessible for all ages, transforming a visit into an educational adventure. Reddit

Beyond its historical context, Casa do Infante is also a venue for cultural events, showcasing its continued relevance in Porto's modern life. From concerts to art exhibitions, the space breathes new life into its ancient stones, offering visitors a chance to experience contemporary culture within a historic setting. Instagram+1 This blend of past and present makes Casa do Infante a truly unique destination.

Navigating Porto: Tips from Travelers

Porto's charm lies in its hilly terrain and winding streets, but this also means comfortable footwear is non-negotiable. Many travelers emphasize wearing supportive shoes to navigate the cobblestones and inclines, especially when exploring areas like Ribeira where Casa do Infante is located. TikTokReddit While walking is the best way to discover hidden gems, Porto also offers public transport options. The #1 tram line is a scenic and cost-effective way to travel along the river, even extending towards the coast. Reddit

For getting around the city, downloading the Bolt app is a popular recommendation for affordable rides, often significantly cheaper than traditional taxis. TikTok This can be particularly useful for longer distances or when dealing with tired feet after a day of sightseeing. When planning your routes, be aware that some bus lines might traverse less tourist-friendly neighborhoods, so sticking to well-known routes or using ride-sharing apps for specific destinations is often advised. Reddit

When it comes to visiting popular attractions like Livraria Lello, booking skip-the-line vouchers in advance is a smart move to avoid long queues. TikTok+1 This strategy can save valuable time, allowing you to experience more of what Porto has to offer. Remember that Porto is a city that rewards exploration, so embrace the journey and the discoveries along the way.

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