Located in Matosinhos, just north of Porto, the Leixões Cruise Terminal is a landmark of contemporary Portuguese architecture. Designed by Luís Pedro Silva and inaugurated in 2015, the terminal is known for its sculptural spiral form, clad in over a million white ceramic tiles by Vista Alegre. Strategically positioned on the southern jetty of the Port of Leixões, it welcomes ocean-going cruise ships of up to 320 meters and 2,500 passengers.

More than a transit hub, the terminal integrates multiple functions—it hosts the CIIMAR marine research center of the University of Porto, event spaces, a restaurant, and marina services. Awarded ArchDaily’s 2017 Building of the Year in Public Architecture, it embodies a fusion of innovation, elegance, and civic purpose, reinforcing Matosinhos as a gateway to northern Portugal.