Praça das Cardosas: Mr. Manuel Cardoso dos Santos was a wealthy businessman with a fortune made in Brazil and who purchased an old Convent of the Padres Lóios, built in the 15th century, transforming it into his residence. They say he had a very ugly wife and daughters who spent their lives at the window, watching and commenting on whoever passed by. Hence the name Palácio das Cardosas given to the emblematic building in Praça da Liberdade in downtown Porto, where the Intercontinental Palácio das Cardosas Hotel is today located. The entire block around this building was named Passeio das Cardosas. And it is there at the back of the Hotel that a new Square appears with buildings that have little or nothing been rehabilitated. Then the newest Square in the City of Porto appeared, Praça das Cardosas. An almost private square with an entrance right in front of São Bento Station and which is often invaded by creative people from Urban Market, the Urban market organized by Portugal Lovers. And for three days, that small and friendly square transforms into a colorful and fun market, full of tourists and locals.

They have a very interesting market on weekends.

There are markets during the month of July on the weekends

Praça das Cardosas was one of the first investments by the Porto City Council, with the aim of modernizing the historic parts of the city and attracting a young population. As incredible as it may seem, the result was a failure as it fell far short of expectations...but the Square remained here. Nowadays it is a leisure place, with a few restaurants and little else. However, it is quite peaceful, something rare to find in the city.

There is a very good fair

Easy to access Parking rates only displayed in Portuguese, difficult to follow for tourists. Was a bit more expensive than anticipated. Safe and secure.

A place to visit, there is a cafe there and sure is a place to hangout if your friends

A secret place in the heart of the city of Porto.

Great for doing several swims

Ras

There are same cafes nearby to relax and enjoy the environment.