Religious site

Monastery of Serra do Pilar

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The Monastery of Serra do Pilar is a 16th-century Augustinian monastery perched on a hill in Vila Nova de Gaia. Its most distinctive features are the circular church and the perfectly round cloister, which are rare in Portuguese monastic architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views over the Douro River and Porto's historic center. Visitors can explore the church, the cloister, and the surrounding gardens.

Don't miss

  • Admire the unique circular church and its dome.
  • Walk the round cloister, one of the few in Portugal.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Porto from the monastery terrace.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Monastery of Serra do Pilar

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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