Porto is famous for its wine, its museums, haute cuisine, its love of sports and football.

But the locals have every reason to be proud of their love for books.

The fact that it has one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, perhaps even the most beautiful, proves the point!

If you are in the city center and walk down Rua Das Carmelitas, you will see Livraria Lello (R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto) housed since 1906 in a Neo-Gothic architectural setting.

The iconic staircase, the wood carvings, the way the books are arranged and the aura of the place will compel you to buy one of the books the bookstore has.

Rumor has it that Harry Potter creator J.K Rowling was inspired by this bookstore and got the impetus to write her famous best selling books.

As it is usually very crowded, you will need to wait a few minutes to enter. In fact, you will also have to pay a ticket, but the price of which will be deducted if you buy a book.

PHOTO CREDITS: Facebook Page-Livraria Lello