If you’re in Porto and looking to cool off, there are some great swimming pools nearby. Here’s a simple guide to the best swimming pools near Porto, with all the details you need to plan your visit, plus a bonus water park for those looking for extra fun.
1. Piscina das Marés
Piscina das Marés was designed by the famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira and blends perfectly with the natural coastal landscape. It is a saltwater pool where you can swim while listening to the waves crash on the rocks nearby. The pool is located in Leça da Palmeira, Matosinhos.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (June to September)
- Prices:
- Weekdays: Adults €8.00 | Kids €5.50
- Weekends: Adults €10.00 | Kids €6.00
- Top Tip: Avoid long lines by buying your ticket online before you go. You can also buy a half-day ticket. There is a café inside.
Why Visit? Piscina das Marés is a national monument and offers a very unique swimming experience with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, on weekends, you can join free fitness classes at 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM, included in the ticket price.
2. Piscina da Quinta da Conceição
This pool is located in a beautiful park called Quinta da Conceição. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by trees, perfect for families who want a relaxed day out. It was also designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira and is located in Leça da Palmeira, Matosinhos.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (June to September)
- Prices:
- Weekdays: Adults €7.00 | Kids €4.50
- Weekends: Adults €9.00 | Kids €5.00
- Top Tip: Get there early to grab a spot, especially on weekends. Buy the ticket online to avoid queues. You can also opt for a half-day ticket.
Why Visit? This is the go-to spot for families and anyone who enjoys a quiet, natural setting. The park itself is beautiful, making it a perfect place to spend the day.
3. Piscina da Quinta da Gruta
If you’re looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path pool, Piscina da Quinta da Gruta is your answer. This pool is tucked away in a charming park in Maia, offering a peaceful environment. Tickets must be purchased online.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (July to September)
- Prices:
- Adults €11.46
- Kids €9.17
- Top Tip: Make sure to read the restrictions. You can only bring light snacks, but no coolers. There is a café inside. You can choose between a half-day or full-day ticket.
Why Visit? It’s perfect for families with children since it has two pools specifically for kids. There’s also a tennis court available for booking.
4. Piscina Solário Atlântico
Piscina Solário Atlântico is a saltwater pool right by the beach in Espinho. It was built in 1942 and offers a nostalgic vibe with modern amenities. You can rent sun loungers or a table with chairs for an additional fee.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (June to September)
- Prices:
- Adults €5.40
- Kids €4.10
- Top Tip: Although the pool is nice, it can get very crowded and noisy. If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the pool, this might not be the best choice due to the limited space.
Why Visit? It’s ideal for sunbathers and those who love to be near the sea. Plus, the café inside is great for grabbing a snack or drink.
5. Piscina Verde
Piscina Verde is a modern pool that opened in 2021. Located in the city park of Paredes, it can accommodate up to 400 people, making it a spacious and refreshing spot to relax.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (June-September)
- Prices:
- Weekdays:
- Full Day: Adults €4.00 | Kids €3.00
- Afternoon (from 2:00 PM): Adults €3.00 | Kids €1.50
- Weekends:
- Morning or Afternoon Session: Adults €3.00 | Kids €1.50
- Weekdays:
- Top Tip: It is recommended to buy the tickets online. On weekends, the pool operates in two sessions, morning and afternoon. If you plan to stay all day, you’ll need to purchase tickets for both sessions.
Why Visit? This modern pool is a great place to relax and refresh, and it’s only about 30 minutes from Porto by car.
Bonus: Parque Aquático de Amarante
If you’re up for some adventure, head to Parque Aquático de Amarante. This water park is packed with slides, wave pools, and attractions for all ages and it is located just about an hour from Porto.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (May to September)
- Prices:
- Adults: €25.00
- Kids: €16.90
- Top Tip: Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds, especially in the peak of summer. If you buy tickets online, you can get a discount of up to 40%.
Why Visit? It’s the perfect day trip for families or groups looking for a fun day out with lots of water activities.
Final Tips for Your Pool Day
Plan Ahead: Some pools get really busy, especially in the summer, so it’s smart to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
Bring the Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and some snacks. Mentioned pools have cafés, but it’s always good to have your own snacks.
Check the Rules: Each pool might have different rules about bringing food, using loungers, or swimwear requirements, so make sure to check in advance.
Arrive Early: For popular pools, especially on weekends, arriving early ensures you get a good spot and have more time to enjoy the facilities.
Combine Your Visit: If you’re exploring the area, consider combining your pool day with a visit to a nearby attraction. For example, after enjoying Piscina das Marés in Matosinhos, you can explore the nearby seaside or head to a local café.
Explore More Water Fun
If you’re looking for more places to cool off, don’t miss our post about Praia Fluvial do Gramido. This hidden gem offers a different experience, perfect for those who prefer a natural setting.
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