When you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, look for the "Jardim do Palácio de Cristal" on the western edge of the centre. The large park is much more like a botanical garden with thousands of ornamental flowers, shrubs and trees laid out according to a precise architectural plan.

However, this is really a regular public park, you won't pay any entrance fee and still enjoy the views of the city and the Douro River.

What will you see in the gardens?

The gardens will welcome you with beautiful landscaped beds in the style of a French garden, a large park in the style of English gardens, several ponds, many benches and a beautiful view of the Douro River, which is hidden on the other side from the main entrance.

You can visit the rose garden, and there are plenty of rhododendrons, camellias and gingko biloba trees in the park.

In the middle of the gardens is a large multi-purpose sports hall , the Super Bock Arena, which does not impede the tranquillity or the views of the Douro.