tourism in porto portugal

• Miranda do Douro
• Viana do Castelo
• Corvo, The Crow Island of the Azores
• Faial, The Blue Island of Azores
• Flores, The Yellow Island of Azores
• Graciosa, The White Island of the Azores
• Pico, The Black Island of Azores
• Santa Maria, The Sunshine Island of the Azores
• São Jorge, The Brown Island of Azores
• São Miguel, The Green Island of Azores
• Terceira Island, The Festive Island of Azores
• Central Portugal
• Lisbon and Tagus Valley
• Porto & Northern Portugal
• Portugal Survival Guide
• Entering Portugal
• Guide to Learning Portuguese
• Portugal Holidays
• Average Temperatures in Portugal
• Weather in Portugal
• Portugal Visa Guide
• Golden Visa Portugal
• Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2023
• D7 Visa Guide
• D2 Visa Guide
• Food & Drink
• History and Culture

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When people think about visiting Portugal, their first thought is to go to Lisbon , the capital. Porto might be the second-largest city in the country after Lisbon, but it is not the second best! 280 km north of Lisbon, the beautiful city of Porto lies along the Douro river. Home to Port wine, street art, and “francesinhas” , Porto is one of the world’s top 100 cities with the most international visitors. Over 1 million tourists visit Porto every year, as well as thousands of digital nomads and remote workers looking to make the city a temporary home.

One of the oldest in Europe, Porto’s old town in the city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996! It is no surprise that Porto is a city with a rich history and culture.

Porto has been inhabited by different groups throughout the ages, making it a melting point of heritage and history. The city was first inhabited by Celtic people. Then, during the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula in the fourth century, the city was transformed into a commercial port. They renamed the city “Portus Cale”, meaning “Port of Cale” (Cale is the original name for Celtic). Fun fact: this has been referred to as the origin of the name Portugal. The Visigoths then took possession of the city in the sixth century but lost it to Moors in the eighth century. Christian forces won back the city in 997 when Porto became the capital of Portucalense (northern Portugal). The Moors won it back again for a few years but in 1092 it went back into Christian rule.

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the city center increased dramatically in population size and became an industrial center. It went on to become a major city in the struggle for the end of the monarchy. Writers and poets with progressive views lived in the city during the nineteenth century. In 1820, a liberal revolution started in Porto demanding the end of the monarchy. After Miguel of Portugal became king, Porto rebelled against the ruler and an eighteen-month siege by the King’s army occurred in 1832. Porto won and the King abdicated! Republicans revolted again in Porto in 1891 and many say these events led to the creation of the Portuguese Republic in 1910.

Since then, Porto has undergone many changes and improvements, like the construction of the Arrábida bridge over the Douro river in the 70s. Porto was elected Best European Destination in 2010 and 2014 and has seen a boom in tourism ever since, giving other European countries a run for their money. Our Porto city guide has all the Porto travel tips for your next vacation!

What to do in Porto, Portugal: Porto Travel Guide to Tourist Attractions, Activities, and Day Trips

Porto is one of the top cities to visit in Portugal, as well as all of Europe right now. The city offers many tourist attractions and activities that are affordable and will make visiting the city a trip to remember. From traditional Portuguese activities like a Port wine tour to historical attractions, as well as activities to do with children, the city has a lot to offer. Ready to explore Porto?

Book Tours & Activities in Porto

What are some traditional things to do in Porto, Portugal?

Wine tasting in porto.

A traditional thing to do in Porto is definitely a Port wine tasting, even if you are not necessarily a wine lover. Port wine is a Portuguese fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley. This wine is a sweet red wine that often pairs perfectly with dessert. On a wine tour, you can also taste other Portuguese wines including white and red wine. The best wine tastings are in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the Dom Luis Bridge from Porto, over the Douro river.

Caves Ferreira in Vila Nova de Gaia is one of the best places for a port tasting. Founded by a family of winemakers in 1751, Caves Ferreira is the only wine company from Porto that has always remained Portuguese throughout its history. They offer port tastings at different prices but a great option is a Classic visit for €15 per person.

You can also visit Ramos Pinto, an incredible vineyard established in 1880 by Adriano Ramos Pinto. They have over 80 hectares of vineyards across four Quintas (farms). You can enjoy a tour of their port wine cellars (Ramos Pinto Cellars) and a visit to their museum (Adriano Ramos Pinto Museum) that teaches you about the history of the brand for €12. You can do all this and have a port tasting of 5 wines at the end for around €25 in their tasting room.

While you’re in Vila Nova de Gaia, make sure to ride the Gaia cable car at sunset to get a view of the Douro river and Porto.

Book Port Wine Tastings & Tours in Porto

Fado houses in Porto

While many associate fado houses with Lisbon, Porto has many traditional taverns where you can listen to the iconic Portuguese music of fado. However, prices in Lisbon are often more expensive (€50+). In Porto, you can get the full experience of a large set menu and a live music show for a more affordable price, as well as a glass of Port wine.

A great place to go is Casa das Mariquinhas. Established in 1968 and close to S. Bento, all the great names of national fado have passed through its doors, singing fado most authentically, without microphones. You can enjoy a show and a large meal here for under €38.

Most fado houses do not allow you to just sit with a wine glass and enjoy the show. Usually, you need to book a table for a full meal. However, Galeria de Paris allows you to listen to a live fado show for only €15, which includes a glass of Port wine. Located in the old town, they also offer lunch menus for under €6.

Book Fado Live Show Ticket 

What are some famous tourist attractions and monuments in porto, portugal.

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Porto has several famous historical attractions and monuments you cannot miss. Better yet – most of them are within walking distance of each other and located in the historic center, proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here are our top 6 historical attractions and monuments to visit in Porto.

1. Clérigos Tower

Want to see the city of Porto at 75 meters high? Located in the city center of Porto, the Clérigos Tower, or the Tower of the Clerics was built in 1763 by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. You can climb the 225 steps to reach the top of the tower, where you can enjoy a 360 perspective of the city. This is particularly beautiful at night and the tower is open until 11 PM, making it one of the best places to watch the sunset. The tower is built on a Roman Catholic Baroque church that is decorated with motifs, a style of architecture from the seventeenth century. The monument also offers a museum on the history of the building.

You can get a guided tour of the museum, church, and tower for €6.50 during the day. You can also visit the tower at night for €5.

Book Torre dos Clerigos Ticket  

2. Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is located in the city center of Porto and is one of the oldest bookstores in the country. It’s known for being one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Founded in 1906, Livraria Lello has been a highlight of cultural life in the city, with many literary figures visiting the place. If you google the place, many argue that JK Rowling, the author of Harry Potter wrote the books at Livraria Lello. Sorry to burst your bubble if you are a Harry Potter fanatic, but this isn’t true – JK Rowling has denied these claims and has never visited Livraria Lello.

Entrance to Livraria Lello used to be free, but they were getting 4,000 visits a day with long lines and less than 5% would buy a book. Now the tickets cost €5. Kids under 3 years old have free entrance.

Book Guided Walking Tours and Lello Bookshop

3. Carmo Church

Also known as Igreja do Carmo, this church is a combination of two buildings, one built in the 1600s and one in the 1700s. This monument is therefore one of the oldest in the old town of Porto. The church is built in baroque style, the same as the Clérigos Tower. A part of the church is decorated with Portuguese blue azulejos (tiles) made locally in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the Douro river from Porto. The exterior has two religious statues of the prophets Elijah and Elisha made in Italy.

You can enter the church for free! However, to visit the museum, catacombs, and Casa Escondida there is a fee of €3.50.

4 . Bolsa Palace

Palacio da Bolsa’s construction began in 1842 by the Porto Commercial Association on the ruins of the Saint Francis Convent. The name Palácio da Bolsa translates into “Stock Exchange Palace”. It no longer functions as a stock exchange but is still the headquarters of the association and is used for important events like the visit of Queen Elizabeth II in 1957. The Stock Exchange Palace was built in neoclassical style and displays furniture by Portuguese architect José Marques da Silva and sculptures by the famous sculptor Teixeira Lopes. The most famous room is the “Arab Room” built between 1862 and 1880 and decorated in the Moorish Revival style. Today, this room is used as a hall for prestigious visitors to Porto like heads of state.

You can visit the palace for €10 or €6.50 for children, students, and seniors. Children under 12 years old can visit the palace for free.

Book Palacio da Bolsa Guided Tour

5. porto cathedral.

Mostly known as Sé do Porto, this Roman Catholic cathedral is a national monument and the most important religious building in all of Porto. The Porto Cathedral still holds a mass every day at 11 am that you can attend for free. The construction of the cathedral began in the twelfth century and was finally fully built in 1737. It was renovated in many architectural styles throughout the centuries including Gothic and Baroque. Today, it has a beautiful mixture of many styles.

The entrance to the Porto Cathedral is free, but if you want to access the fourteenth-century cloister you pay €3 ticket.

6. Majestic Cafe

Established in 1921, this café is known as one of the most beautiful in Europe and is located in the heart of the city center. This café was first called Elite as it was catered to the finest in society and intellectuals. The name was changed to Majestic Cafe, as Elite alluded to the monarchy and that did not sit well with the republican intellectuals that visited the place. The building was declared a “Public Interest Building” in 1983 and won multiple awards including the Municipal Merit Medal – Grade – Gold” (2011). This is a must-see in Porto but the prices are quite high. The café offers many baked delicacies such as “Pastel de Nata”, meals, and an afternoon tea for €25 per person. An expresso costs €5 here, while in other cafés it should not cost you more than €1. But for the experience, it is well worth it.

Best Things to do in Porto

Day trips from porto, portugal.

Porto has a lot to offer, but so do the surrounding areas. If you visit Porto, it would be a waste to not take a day trip. Here are our top 3 favorite day trips from Porto you cannot miss. If you are visiting for at least a week, taking all 3 would make it the perfect trip.

1. Douro Valley

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Douro Valley should be on the top of your list for a day trip. The Douro Valley is a cultural landscape of vineyards where Douro wines are grown and produced at traditional wine cellars. Departing from Porto, the Douro river flows in the middle of these green hills with vineyards. Beware, visiting the Douro Valley is quite expensive for Portuguese standards, but a once in a lifetime opportunity.

The best way to visit the Douro Valley is by hiring a private car transfer or renting a car as public transportation is scarce in the area, especially if you want to visit multiple vineyards for wine tastings. Alternatively, you can also book a stunning Douro river cruise that stops at vineyards.

The 3 best vineyards to visit in Douro are the following: Quinta da Roêda (Pinhão), Quinta do Crasto (Sabrosa), and Quinta do Seixo (Valença do Douro).

Quinta da Roêda does not just offer Port wine tastings, but also, visits to the vineyards, picnics, workshops, and more. You can explore the gorgeous vineyard with a travel guide and have a tasting of three wines for only €12 per person. Their packages go up to €44 per person for a larger number and variety of wines. For a luxurious and romantic lunch out with wine, you can reserve their picnic package on the shaded terrace, overlooking the vineyards and Douro river. Prices for this range from €30 to €48 per person depending on the basket selected.

Quinta do Crasto is included in the Top 20 of the World’s Best Vineyards, winning 16th place in 2021. The wine tasting here lasts around 90 minutes where you get to taste 5 of their wines, visit the port wine cellars, and more for €29 per person.

Quinta do Seixo has over 100 hectares and is one of the most traditional wine-producing estates in the region. The vines are over one hundred years old! The Quinta also has very advanced winemaking technology that is perfectly integrated with the landscape. They have a variety of packages for wine-loving visitors. Their cheapest visit is €15 for a 40-minute tour of the winery and tasting of 2 port wines. Their most luxurious option is a 3-hour picnic in the vineyard where you can taste their wines and enjoy Douro cuisine for €40 per person (only available from March to October).

Alternatively, if you want to enjoy the views of the Douro river rather than spending the day vineyard “hopping”, you could travel by bus, train, and boat for the full experience. You can book a day river cruise in the Douro river from Porto and come back by bus or train. This 12-hour day cruise from Porto includes a return ticket so you can travel back to the city through public transportation. It also includes breakfast, lunch, and a wine tasting at the end in Pinhão where you can catch the bus or train back to Porto. The cruise costs €86 per person.

Book Douro Valley Tours

2. Peneda-Gerês National Park

A one-hour drive from Porto, Gerês is the oldest protected area in the country and the only national park in Portugal. The park covers an area of 695.93 km 2 and occasionally gets some snow in the winter. This is the perfect day trip for adventure-seeking travelers! There are many hiking trails and “miradouros” (viewpoints) where you can get wonderful views. There are also many lagoons and rivers where you can take a dip in the summer months, perfect for after a hike. You can also spend the day exploring medieval villages that are uninhabited. Make sure to pack some food and a water bottle as some areas are far away from infrastructures.

How do you get to Gerês from Porto? The best way is to book a car rental to drive the 100 kilometers. Public transportation to Gerês is almost nonexistent. The only way to get there is to get a one-hour train to Braga (€5) and then take a 43m taxi (€30) or a 1h30 bus (€2) to the park. This will take up half of your day, considering that the bus and taxis will also probably be late.

However, you can always book a tour, this is a great option for a whole day. This amazing tour picks you up from your accommodation in Porto (round-trip) and takes you to the best hiking and swimming spots in Gerês. You can also venture off the track as you’ll be in a 4×4 and so can explore secret places! This 10-hour tour also includes local food and wine at a typical restaurant. The tour costs €85 per person.

Book Peneda-Geres National Park Tours

3. Matosinhos

Last but not least, if you are looking for a sunny day at the beach close to Porto , head to Matosinhos. This fishing town is a 20-minute drive or a 40-minute bus ride from Porto. Matosinhos is famous for its beach, Praia de Matosinhos, the largest beach close to Porto. The beach is perfect for a relaxing day away from the city during the summer. The beach has a lot to offer: beach sports like surfing in the wavey Atlantic ocean, lifeguards supervising the area, as well as plenty of cafes and beach bars.

The best time to go is between June and August during the week. Avoid the weekends as Matosinhos beach will be overly crowded during this time.

You can also book a surfing experience here for €40 which is perfect for a family with kids. This surf experience includes a transfer from Porto to Matosinhos. Don’t know how to surf? Don’t worry! The instructions in this experience will teach you.

You can also choose to visit other beaches, like Praia de Leca da Palmeira which also has saltwater swimming pools that are much warmer than the sea.

You can also visit the Castelo do Queijo (Cheese Castle), a fort constructed in the seventeenth century after Portugal gained independence from Spain. The fort has a small museum that costs €0.50 to enter.

The town is also known for its seafood, allowing you to discover the best of Portuguese culture. The morning fish market sells fresh fish every day at the port and you can also taste the finest fish dishes at many restaurants. Some amazing seafood restaurants overlooking the Atlantic ocean in Matosinhos are TITO 2 (around €40 for two people), A Marisqueira de Matosinhos (around €50 for two people), and Marisqueria A Antiga (around €70 for two people).

Book Matosinhos Beach Activities

Travel Guide to Porto & Northern Portugal

What are some activities for kids in Porto, Portugal?

Porto has plenty of stuff to do with the kids, catering to locals and tourists alike. A great thing to do in Porto is visiting Sea Life, an experience the whole family will enjoy. Sea Life has over 30 displays and 3,000 sea creatures. This place has an underwater tunnel you can walk through and observe the sea life. Tickets cost €14 and entrance is free for kids under 3. If you want a surreal experience, book the VIP Turtle Feeding where you can go backstage and feed Mariza, the green turtle for €24.

Book Sea Life Ticket

Another thing to do with kids in Porto is to visit the World of Discoveries in the center, an interactive museum and theme park that teaches you about Portuguese navigators. Kids younger than 3 years old have free access, kids from 4 to 12 years old pay €9, and adults pay €15. However, bear in mind that some parents feel like this place glorifies the era of Portuguese “discoveries” and silences the victims of colonialism.

Book World of Discoveries Ticket

Lastly, if you don’t mind getting away from the city, Zoo Santo Inácio in Vila Nova da Gaia is a 15-minute drive from Porto. They have over 600 animals and 200 species living in the zoo. From a 40-meter glass tunnel where you can see a lion’s habitat to a reptile area with the largest snake in the world, the reticulated python at 11 meters long, this zoo is an incredible experience. Kids under 3 do not pay, while kids under 13 pay €10. Adults pay €15.

What are some free things to do in Porto, Portugal?

Due to its beautiful views and public historical buildings, Porto has a lot for those on a budget . Exploring this magical city comes at zero cost – think of it as a free walking tour!

The riverfront district of Ribeira is the perfect place for a walk as it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take photos of Dom Luis bridge and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. There are pedestrian walking lanes along the bridge so you can actually cross it.

The gardens of the Palacio de Cristal are only a 15-minute walk from the center. The landscaped gardens were designed in the nineteenth century and offer views of the Douro river, as well as walking paths and fountains. Perfect for a picnic!

You should also visit a Casa Da Musica (House of Music), an iconic concert hall in the center of the city, built in 2005. Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas. Although a tour of the inside costs €10, the best part of this place is the exterior. Perfect to take photos!

If you love photography, visit the Centro Português de Fotografia. This museum showcases works from Portuguese and international photographers and has free exhibitions. The building once served as a prison which you will notice by the iron gates and cells inside the museum.

Finally, the São Bento railway station is not just perfect for traveling. This station has an atrium covered in 22,000 azulejos (tiles), created by artist Jorge Colaço. The azulejos feature iconic episodes of Portuguese history. São Bento railway station is often described as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world!

Where to eat in Porto, Portugal?

This Porto travel guide would be meaningless without the most important part of Portuguese culture – food. Porto offers an incredible culinary experience at a much more affordable price than Lisbon. From “francesinhas” to seafood and wine, Porto is the perfect place for a foodie. The options are limitless, so we have selected our favorite restaurants for your needs. Porto has meals for everyone’s taste: traditional food, vegan meals, as well as luxury dining for those looking for an experience.

Porto Food Tours & Tastings

Portuguese food: where to eat traditional portuguese food in porto, portugal.

Porto is home to many restaurants serving Northern cuisine that will make you feel like a local. But first, let’s go through the typical Portuense (and Portuguese) foods you need to try in Porto. These are all definitely must-tries!

• “Francesinha”: A trip to Porto needs a francesinha. This meal includes ham, sausage, and steak sandwich with loads of melted cheese and a fried egg on top, and spiced tomato and beer sauce. It’s served with french fries.
• “Tripas à moda do Porto”: This is a heavy meat-based dish, with beans, carrots, steak, veal, and pork stomach. People have been eating this in Porto for hundreds of years.
• “Sandes de pernil”: a roast pork butt sandwich with “queijo da serra” (a mountain cheese).
• “Bacalhau: codfish. There are 365 ways to serve codfish in Portugal, our favorite is “bacalhau à brás”, a dish made from shreds of codfish, onions, chopped potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Usually topped with black olives and parsley.
• Caldo verde: a green vegetable soup with Portuguese sausage.
• “Alheira”: a Portuguese alheira sausage made from chicken, turkey, duck, or pheasant. Usually eaten with fries and a fried egg.
• “Broa de Avintes: a famous bread from Porto that is dark brown.
• “Tarde de Amendoa”: an almond tart that is typical of Douro as this region cultivates most of the countries almonds. The tart has almonds, sugar, butter, and milk.
• “Sardinhas assadas”: sardines that are usually plated on top of bread and paired with potatoes, peppers, and salad.

Now that you know how to navigate a menu, here are our top 3 places to eat traditional food in Porto.

1. Taberna Santo António, Rua Virtudes

Located in the city center, a classic Porto “tasca” (Portuguese tavern), you’ll be treated like a local here. You can try various traditional Portuguese dishes for a very cheap price. On Sundays, they have “cozido  à Portuguesa”, a traditional meat stew with pork, sausages, rice, and vegetables for 7€. They also have “bifanas”, a steak sandwich for under €2. The roast pork is also amazing! You can get a full meal here for under €10.

2. Casa Guedes, Praça dos Poveiros & Rua Actor João Guedes

This place is known for having the best “sandes de pernil” in Porto, a roast pork butt sandwich with mountain cheese. It was initially established in 1987 by the Correia brothers as a snack bar, but since then, they have opened two new spaces. You can try any of these, they are all amazing:

• Casa Guedes Tradicional (1987): Praça dos Poveiros 130
• Casa Guedes Rooftop (2019): Praça dos Poveiros 76
• Casa Guedes Progresso (2020): Rua Actor João Guedes 5

Their “sandes de pernil” only costs €3.90. They also have other sandwiches: Portuguese ham, cured pork, cured black pork, and softer sheep cheese sandwich (all under €4.50). This is also a great place to try the “caldo verde” (green soup) for €1.70 and the iconic “francesinha” with melted cheese. You can have a whole meal here for €6.

3. Tasquinha Ze Povinho , Rua Clemente Meneres

One of the best “tascas” in Porto, this family-run restaurant offers traditional dishes that make you feel at home. The owner of this restaurant prides herself on creating dishes that reflect her Portuguese roots, rather than catering to tourists. The restaurant offers authentic dishes that everyone must try like “francesinhas” and “tripas à moda do Porto”.You can get a meal here for under €7.

For the plant-based: where to eat vegan food in Porto, Portugal?

If you are a vegan planning your trip to Porto, look no further. The vegan scene in Porto has been booming recently. A few years ago, there were few options for plant-based food, but now there are hundreds of options for vegans. It has truly become a vegan-friendly city! Here are our top three vegan places in Porto.

1. Arvore do Mundo, Rua do Duque de Lole

Arvore do Mundo is not just a vegan restaurant, but also a gallery where you can check out local art. They have a garden and terrace where you can have a vegan meal and relax, as well as toys and books for kids.

This vegan restaurant has lunch menus for €10 per person and the average cost for dinner is around €12 per person.

2. Kind Kitchen , Rua do Bonjardim

Located in Baixa, the interior of the restaurant is modern and clean and you can watch the food being prepared in their open-style kitchen. kind Kitchen has a wide range of dishes including Buddha bowls, burgers, and cakes. They even have the famous beyond burger that tastes like real meat! This vegan restaurant also has a vegan version of the iconic Porto dish “francesinha” with plant-based melted cheese.

The lunch menus are under €10 per person and the average cost for dinner is around €12 per person.

3. My Green Pastry , Praça da República

Missing out on the amazing desserts in Porto? Don’t worry, my Green Pastry is a vegan pastry shop that will satisfy your sweet tooth. This place focuses on local and seasonal ingredients and is also plastic-free. My Green Pastry also has savory snacks that are completely plant-based and organic. They also offer a large brunch on Saturdays for €18.

Luxury dining: what are the best Michelin star restaurants in Porto, Portugal?

Looking for a luxurious night out? Prepare to splurge! Porto has 5 Michelin-starred restaurants that will provide you with a once in a lifetime experience. We have chosen our two favorite Michelin star restaurants in Porto.

1. Pedro Lemos, Rua do Padre Luís Cabral

A 20-minute car ride from the center of Porto, Pedro Lemos is a renowned restaurant in a restored stone house. Opened in 2009 by Chef Pedro Lemos, it was the first restaurant in Porto to be awarded a Michelin star. Pedro Lemos is located in Foz, a historical neighborhood in Porto. The restaurant has contemporary decor and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a beautiful view. It also has a wine cellar where group dinners can take place. Pedro Lemos has excellent fish dishes that are Portuguese, as well as international cuisine. The foie gras is to die for!

Menus start at €120 per person where you can taste 8 dishes. The menu for wine starts at €65 and these are carefully selected to pair with your meal.

2. Antiqvvm , Rua de Entre Quintas

Located close to Museo Romántico, this restaurant is situated in a park in the center of Porto. You get a gorgeous view of the Douro River. Chef Vitor Matos uses seasonal and local ingredients to produce unbelievable dishes. This Michelin 1-star restaurant has Portuguese wines from every region, selected by the sommelier António Lopes. Try the red mullet with cauliflower and sea urchin sauce.

You can choose from a set menu or opt for the à la carte menu where vegetarian options are available. A set menu here will cost you at least €135 and the wine menu €65.

Guide to Porto Restaurants 2022

Getting around: how does public transportation work in porto, portugal.

Getting around in Porto is fairly easy. You can walk most places, but you also have access to efficient public transportation, including train, tram, and bus routes. Transportation costs are also incredibly affordable, with travel cards available. The best way to get from Porto airport to the city center is by renting a car or booking a 20-minute taxi.

What travel card to buy for public transportation in Porto, Portugal?

You have travel card options to go around Porto: the Porto Card + travel card or the Andante Card.

The Porto card + travel card is perfect if you are going to visit museums. You get free bus and metro transport, free entry to 6 museums (including a contemporary art museum), and 50% off in 14 monuments. You also get a free train ride to the beach. You can buy this card from official tourist offices, some railway stations, and Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport. You cannot purchase it at a metro station. Here are the prices for the Porto Card + travel card:

• 2-days: €20
• 3-days: €25
• 4-days: €33

Book the Porto Travel Card

There are two types of Andante cards, the Andante 24 card, and the Andante Tour card. You can purchase these in Andante shops in metro stations and the airport, as well as tourist offices. The Andante 24 card gives you 24-hour unlimited access to the metro, buses, and some trains. The price of the card depends on the zone you purchase it for. If you are just getting around central Porto, purchase a zone 2 Andante 24 card that costs €4.15. You can also get an Adante Tour card for tourists that allows you to travel to all the zones. An Andante Tour 1 for 24 hours costs €7 and an Andante Tour 3 for 72 hours costs €15.

The metro in Porto, Portugal

The metro is one of the fastest public transportation options, as well as the most sustainable (after walking). 12,000 cars stopped circulating because of the Porto metro.

The metro has 6 lines and 81 stations and goes through the city’s main districts, as well as outskirts. The metro works from 6 am to 1 am. A single ticket costs €1.70. Make sure to watch out for pickpocketers and stay safe!

The tram in Porto, Portugal

Like in Lisbon, the trams are a cultural and historical experience. They are a great way to get to know the city, but they are much slower than other means of public transportation. The locals use to rely on the tram before the bus and metro lines were established, but now this mode of transport is best for tourists and those wanting a unique experience.

A single fare will cost you €3.

The bus in Porto, Portugal

The bus is the cheapest mode of transportation in all of Porto. It can take you places where the metro line does not reach and can take you to Vila Nova de Gaia, as well as Matosinhos for the beach.

Don’t forget to reach out your arm when the bus driver passes by so that they stop to let you get on!

A single fare ticket bought with the driver costs €1.80.

The train in Porto, Portugal

The trains are great for getting out of Porto, to cities nearby. Don’t travel within Porto by train. You can take the train from São Bento Station to Braga (€15), and other cities.

A single fare can cost you between €1.50 and can go up to €30 depending on where you go.

Guide to Bars in Porto

Porto guide: final thoughts.

For you’re next trip to Portugal, you must visit Porto. In fact, put it at the top of your list. From incredible food to its World Site Heritage historic center and views along the Douro river, the city has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a solo traveler or backpacking, Porto is an affordable city to visit that can still make it a trip to remember. This city fits everyone’s budget from cheap options for backpackers to luxurious hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants. Hopefully, this extensive Porto travel guide has taught you everything you need to travel to the Portuguese city. It’s time to find yourself some cheap flights to Porto airport!

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Opening up like a pop-up book from the banks of the Rio Douro, edgy-yet-opulent Porto entices with its historic center and sumptuous food and wine.

Best Time to Visit

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Igreja de São Francisco

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This fabulous cultural institution combines a museum, a mansion and extensive gardens. Cutting-edge exhibitions, along with a fine permanent collection…

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Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis

Porto's best art museum presents a stellar collection ranging from Neolithic carvings to Portugal’s take on modernism, all housed in the formidable…

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Make the most of your trip to perfect Porto with 13 insider tips on what you need to know before you book your vacation.

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Porto and beyond

Despite its UNESCO World Heritage status, Porto keeps moving to the pace of modern life. Welcome to a vibrant European city where history inspires innovative stories, where world-class research finds sustainable ways to highlight nature and where tradition fuels creativity. Welcome to the award-winning Porto City.

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When it comes to "best tourist destination" awards, Porto is always on board. In 2024, the World Travel Awards chose Porto as the winner of the "Europe's Leading Seaside Metropolitan Destination" category.

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Porto

Written by Becca Blond and Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Porto is an easy city to fall in love with. From the moment you arrive, you'll be mesmerized by its historic center, which is filled with narrow cobblestone streets and picturesque squares, with tall colorful houses, Baroque churches, train stations, and stately neoclassical buildings with intricate blue and white tile facades dating back to the 14 th century.

The city sprawls upward from both sides of the Douro River and is seemingly hewn out of granite cliffs at the mouth of the river, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is a city that has it all. From rich cultural attractions to world-class museums and even surf beaches, there is no shortage of sights and activities to partake in.

Porto is relatively compact and it's easy to explore on foot so long as you don't mind climbing some very steep hills. If you do get tired, however, the public transport system is good, and taxis and Ubers are plentiful. But half the fun of exploring Porto is wandering its cobbled Medieval streets and 18 th -century accented neighborhoods on foot. Just be sure to pack some decent walking shoes.

The city's historical heart is the Ribeira . This waterfront bairro positively insists you lose yourself among the maze of narrow streets and seek out some of the city's most cherished architectural treasures. In fact, so rare and precious are the buildings that make up this venerable neighborhood that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site.

Meanwhile, the city's contemporary character is evident in its thriving modern arts scene and an alarmingly futuristic music venue. Crossing the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia is a sightseeing highlight, as is a guided tour around one of the port lodges. Also consider a cruise along the Douro, and for a truly memorable city panorama take a ride on the cable car that glides from one end of the quayside to the other.

Considered Portugal's second city, after Lisbon, many will argue it is the more charismatic of the two cities. You'll have to experience it for yourself, following our list of top attractions, to decide.

See also: Where to Stay in Porto

1. Torre dos Clérigos

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The soaring Clérigos Tower punctuates Porto's skyline like a monumental needle. This is the city's most visible landmark, a 75-meter-tall, 18th-century granite-hewn rocket, and visiting this historic structure should be high up on the "things to do" list.

You'll need a stout pair of legs to climb the 240 steps to the top of the tower, but the effort will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the river, the coastline, and the distant Douro valley — a bird's-eye-view of Portugal's second largest city, and an inspiring way for first-time sightseers to get their bearings.

Commissioned by the Brotherhood of the Clergy ( clérigos ) and designed by the Italian-born Nicolau Nasoni, the Baroque tower complements the adjoining Igreja dos Clérigos , which is also Nasoni's handiwork. Built between 1732 and 1750, the church itself is a wonderful example of the architect's affinity with the Baroque and features an elliptic floorplan, one of the first churches in Portugal built in such a way.

But the tower remains the highlight and, day or night, its tapered profile stands as a historic beacon visible from most parts of the city.

Address: Rua São Filipe de Neri, Porto

Official site: www.torredosclerigos.pt

Dating from the mid-19th century, Porto's former stock exchange contains a wealth of historic interest. Built on the site of a Franciscan monastery, its sumptuous interior is divided into several rooms and salons, each one singular in its appeal and worthy of close scrutiny.

Pretend you're a wealthy merchant visiting on business as you wander through the Portrait Room with its gallery of uniformed monarchs, and then cast your eyes skywards after entering the Golden Room to admire its gilded stucco ceiling. You'll be ready for your meeting with the boss in the lavishly furnished Chairman's Room before joining fellow merchants in the richly decorated Court Hearing Room to witness mercantile law acted out in due process.

You may want to pop into the adjacent Juror's Room before gathering in the magnificent Hall of Nations to mingle with the great and the good. But you'll want to leave the best for last by sneaking off to the astonishing Arabian Room, inspired by Granada's Alhambra , and the one place that really sells a tour of the Bolsa.

Incidentally, the building is the headquarters of the Porto Chamber of Commerce, and its members still gather in the classical General Assembly Room.

Address: Rua Ferreira Borges, Porto

Official site: http://www.palaciodabolsa.com

One of the more unusual things to do in Porto — and certainly a radical departure from the traditional sightseeing options — is the chance to climb the arches of the Arrábida Bridge , set downstream away from the more familiar Ponte Dom Luís 1 .

The Porto Bridge Climb conducts guided tours of this iconic structure with participants attired in harnesses and secure lifelines in order to scale the lofty heights safely and comfortably. Following a narrow pedestrian staircase and connected by cable to a parallel handrail, visitors slowly scale the yawning arches to reach the top of the span, 65 meters above the River Douro . The panoramic views of the outlying city and the mouth of the river are truly memorable.

Descending the 262 steps reveals the size and elegance of this 20th-century engineering marvel, inaugurated in 1963 and currently the only bridge span in Europe that can be accessed this way.

Location: Cais do Bicalho, Porto

Official site: https://www.portobridgeclimb.com/?lang=en

Visitors are shrouded by gold as they enter the beautiful church of St. Francis. Its 18th-century Baroque interior is encrusted with a gilded veneer so dazzling and exuberant that most agree this is one of the best examples of worked gold anywhere in the country. Indeed, this is a priceless sightseeing experience.

Gilt carving embellishes the high altar, columns, and pillars, with barely a single patch of stone left visible. Look out for smiling cherubs and dour-faced monks as you edge toward the north wall and São Francisco's Tree of Jesse, a family tree in gilded and painted wood depicting Christ's genealogy.

An extraordinary and beguiling artifact carved between 1718 and 1721, the tree boasts fine detail seen in the expressions of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, and other figures, including King David, Solomon, and Jesse himself, which leaves onlookers speechless.

A tour of the ancient catacombs underneath the church helps bring visitors back down to earth, but there are more treasures from the church's monastery to behold in the museum afterwards.

Address: Rua do Infante D. Henrique, Porto

Official site: www.ordemsaofrancisco.pt

Porto's riverside quarter is an alluring labyrinth of narrow, winding streets; zigzagging alleyways; and low-slung, sun-starved arcades. Facing the River Douro , though, are terraces of lofty townhouses painted in bright mustard, tangerine, and tawny hues — the Ribeira is an adventure in color and flavor.

A plethora of restaurants and cafés set under the arches along the quayside makes this the most popular area in the city for relaxing and socializing. Praça da Ribeira , the riverfront square, is a popular and lively meeting point and buzzes with a young, friendly vibe.

This is also a busy commercial district, where grocers rub shoulders with butchers and fishmongers. Tiny, dilapidated shoemaker's studios echo to the industrious tapping of cobblers' hammers, and the rustic aroma of freshly baked bread collides with the Douro's salty, briny odor. Above it all, locals share gossip from balconies or open windows, shouting inexorably across lines of washing snapping in the breeze.

The Ribeira is also about history, and exploring this fascinating neighborhood is to discover medieval relics built over Roman foundations. UNESCO loves the place, and long ago declared it a World Heritage Site.

The grandiose Dom Luís I bridge is one of the most iconic structures in Portugal. Spanning the mighty River Douro to link Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia on the south bank, the bridge's majestic sweep and two-tier aspect is a binding component in the city's proud, social fabric.

The heavily riveted charcoal-grey ironwork has Gustave Eiffel written all over it, and indeed it was an assistant of the great French engineer who built the bridge in 1886. Commuters use the bridge on a daily basis — a road, Avenida da República, runs across the lower deck while the upper span accommodates a metro railway line.

Pedestrians can walk across using the narrow pavements set on either side of the road, or be really brave and traverse the structure using the 60-meter-high top-tier footpath.

An outstanding view of the bridge can be had from the terrace of the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar , on the south bank. From here, the entire city forms a fabulous backdrop, and the panorama is particularly dramatic at dusk. Don't forget your tripod!

Sightseeing in Porto should always include exploration of the city's cathedral. In fact, the sweeping panorama from the terrace over the old-town streets and the sleepy River Douro is a great curtain raiser and primes the senses for what lies ahead.

An imposing 12th-century landmark, the cathedral has the appearance of a fortress, such is the forbidding look of its towers and the shadowy complexion of its façade. Redeeming features include a beautiful 13th-century rose window set in the west front, and the serene Baroque cloisters paneled with sky blue azulejo tiles. Linger here a little to absorb the medieval ambiance and the tranquil locale.

From here, a worn 18th-century granite staircase connects with the chapterhouse, which is wrapped in more stunning tile work. Another standout attraction is the magnificent silver retable in the small chapel to the left of the chancel.

Round off your tour by poring over the cathedral's dazzling hoard of gold and silver held in the Treasury.

With its long, broad promenade and riverfront aspect, Vila Nova de Gaia is an irresistible diversion. Easily reached on foot by crossing the Ponte de Dom Luís I , the town's landscaped quayside is fringed by a long line of stylish restaurants and cafés. It's also the departure point for numerous Douro River cruise boats.

Adding a wonderfully nostalgic perspective is the fleet of traditional barcos rabelos moored alongside the esplanade. These graceful sailing vessels were once used to ferry casks downriver from the Douro port estates, and with Porto's Ribeira district providing a suitably romantic backdrop, sightseers are regaled with an atmospheric cityscape, a tableaux reminiscent of the 18th century.

For a truly dramatic outlook, take a ride on the Teleférico de Gaia , or cable car. This novel new sightseeing attraction runs along the Gaia riverside and connects the upper station, near the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar , with the eastern end of the esplanade.

Location: Cais de Gaia, Porto

If you decide to visit just one museum in Porto, make sure it's this one. The outstanding collection of Portuguese art spans from the 16th to the 20th centuries and includes sculpture by António Soares dos Reis, the country's celebrated 19th-century sculptor after whom the museum is named.

The displays are wonderfully eclectic in their scope, with the gold and silverware particularly engaging. The collection of paintings showcases works by Portuguese and foreign artists, notably Dutch and Flemish. Fine Portuguese glassware from the 18th and 19th centuries complement rare ceramic pieces that include porcelain from China, and examples of Delftware.

Decorative furniture from as far away as India and Japan lend the exhibition an exotic veneer, while the textiles collection is mostly derived from fabrics and other materials that were confiscated from dissolved monasteries and convents.

Allow a good couple of hours to browse the various galleries and then explore the garden, perhaps before a bite to eat in the museum's cafeteria, where the lunch choice includes vegetarian options.

Address: Palácio dos Carrancas, Rua D. Manuel II, Porto

Official site: https://museusoaresdosreis.gov.pt/

Set on a hillside overlooking the Douro River and the Ribeira neighborhood, Parque das Virtudes is the most revered local spot to watch the sunset on long summer days. Due to its western locale, Porto gets some amazing nightly fire shows, and you need to come here at least once on your trip.

You can grab a takeaway beverage from one of the cafes on the street behind the top of the park, take a seat in the grass or on one of the benches, and just breathe. People of all ages come for sunset, and you'll hear a mix of languages and maybe even be treated to some impromptu live guitar and drum sessions.

The park, which is really a terraced garden carved into the embankment above the river, has lots of tall trees and makes a great spot to plan a lunchtime picnic away from the crowds. Finding the entrance to the park can be difficult. Look for one on Rua Azevedo de Albuquerque and another behind the Palácio da Justica .

Portugal's remarkable period of conquest and exploration, the Age of Discovery , is re-enacted with astonishing effect at this slick interactive museum and theme park. The perilous voyages of 15th-century Portuguese navigators, setting sail in fleets of fragile caravels to chart unknown waters and map new lands, are brought to stunning life through a series of detailed exhibitions and screened animations.

But the real adventure begins after boarding a boat and journeying to countries discovered by the likes of Vasco da Gama, who in 1498 mapped a sea route from Portugal to India, and Pedro Álvares Cabral, who reached Brazil in 1500.

Wearing audio headsets, passengers are regaled with the planning and organization underpinning these ambitious maritime expeditions and also glean a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the various destinations colonized by the Portuguese during this period. In fact, this is a wonderfully engaging and educative experience and good fun for all ages.

Address: Rua de Miragaia 106, Porto

Official site: https://www.worldofdiscoveries.com

Plastering the exterior of Porto's 18th-century Carmo church is a blaze of blue and white azulejos (tiles), and the striking façade is one of the most instantly recognized in the city. The original azulejos found around the city date back to the 14th century when they were used as a key decoration element on streets, buildings, and monuments. Today, some of the tiles have been replaced by replicas after the originals were stolen.

The church's immense tile panel is a real head-turner, but the splendid gilt carvings that decorate the interior are equally appealing. In fact, the elegant golden-brushed woodwork is among the finest examples of Portuguese Rococo.

The neighboring Igreja das Carmelitas is less of an eye-opener. Incredibly, dividing both is a house, built to comply with an ancient law that stipulated that no two churches were to share the same wall.

Many believe this to be the narrowest private residence in the country, although it's been unoccupied for nearly 30 years. A whimsical anomaly, the one-meter-wide abode makes for an interesting snapshot squeezed as it is between two granite monoliths.

If you enjoy seeing the azulejos also pay a visit to the nearby Sāo Bento train station . It is the most impressive example of this form of tile art. Here you will find floor-to-ceiling tile murals telling stories of Portugal's history. Another top spot for intricate tiling is found along Rua de Santa Catarina street.

Address: Rua do Carmo, Porto

Anyone staying in Porto for a few days should check out the cultural program on offer at this fabulous international concert venue. The "Music House" is celebrated as much for its radical design as for the caliber of the entertainment it hosts.

Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas kicked convention when he was commissioned to create a building that would propel the city headlong into the 21st century. This he achieved to great acclaim, and the best way to appreciate his triumph is to attend one of the many gigs staged within its bleached, odd-sided skin.

All musical tastes are catered for, anything from classical and fado, to jazz and hip-hop. World-class acts performing here include the late Lou Reed, who played the opening night back in 2005.

Another way to glimpse the interior is to walk up to the top-floor restaurant. On the menu of Mediterranean-influenced cuisine is an inspiring panorama across Porto's busy Boavista neighborhood. But for an unhurried, up-close-and-personal view join a guided tour. Otherwise, amble over here at dusk when the venue is washed with floodlight for a truly abstract perspective of this extraordinary structure.

Address: Avenida da Boavista 604, Porto

Official site: http://www.casadamusica.com/en/

The influential Serralves Foundation runs Porto's highly respected Contemporary Art Museum. Designed by minimalist wizard Álvaro Siza Vieira, the chalk-white building is itself a cultural draw, an example of subliminal ergonomic architecture set in a verdant, meandering park four kilometers west of the city center.

The museum has eschewed a permanent collection and instead aspires to offer different perspectives on contemporary art in various media. This all adds up to an exciting and unpredictable visitor experience where, very often, you're left to make your own mind up about the meaning behind each piece and the intentions of the artist — in other words, this is modern art.

Also set within the grounds is the pink Art Deco Casa de Serralves , where other exhibitions are held. Discussions, arguments, and points of view can be exchanged in the on-site café or the more formal restaurant. The park is quite beautiful, a landscaped Eden of tremendous biodiversity. A series of footpaths snake through the 18 hectares, winding past spruce lawns, ornamented lakes, and aromatic herb gardens before circulating through a shady, wooded copse.

Address: Rua Sao Joao de Castro 210, Porto

With its distinctive Art Nouveau façade of curvaceous stonework and undulating motifs, this sparkling gem of a coffeehouse is unmistakable.

Inside, a vintage 1920s ambience percolates the salon. Arranged throughout the lavish interior are the original carved wood chairs and marble-topped tables that lend Majestic its delightfully bohemian flavor. Cherubs and lamplights cling to the plasterwork ceiling. Gracing the walls are sets of huge Flemish mirrors that reflect the evocative, yesteryear character.

This is the most celebrated of Porto's cafés, and one of Europe's most historical. Lunch and dinner can be taken here in considerable style, the menu tempting with a fusion of Portuguese and Mediterranean flavors. The café is also known for its cakes and pastries selection, and conjures up specialties like French toast smothered in a creamy egg custard topped with dried fruit.

Kids will love it here, especially when they realize that author J.K. Rowling worked on the draft of her first book Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone while sipping coffee at a table near the entrance. Magic, or what?

Harry Potter fans will also not want to miss a visit to Livaria Lello bookstore (about a 12-minute walk away), which is said to have inspired Diagon Alley's premium bookstore, Flourish and Blotts, in the series. When JK Rowling lived in Porto, she would visit the more than 100-year-old bookstore on weekends. There is almost always a line to get into the bookstore today, and tickets cost 5 EUR, although you can get the money refunded if you buy a book.

Even if Harry Potter doesn't excite you, this bookstore is still a work of art. The interior is art nouveau at its finest and you'll want to climb the curved red staircase to the top. The bridge in the center of the shop, with a curve and dip at its middle, is equally impressive. Also make sure to check out the ceiling, which has a huge stained-glass window in it.

Address: Rua Santa Catarina 112, Porto

Official site: http://www.cafemajestic.com/pt/Utilidades/Homepage.aspx

The Portuguese Center of Photography will appeal to anybody with an understanding of the photographic process. This engaging cultural facility is set within the walls of a former 18th-century prison, the Cadeia de Relação. The jail was closed in 1974, but its labyrinth of cells, various administrative offices, and the inner courtyard were all carefully restored and now serve as unusual exhibition spaces.

Exhibitions tend to focus on vintage and contemporary Portuguese photography, but a number of international photographers have seen their work exhibited as part of cultural exchange initiatives. Interestingly, photographs created digitally and those taken using traditional analogue methods share a more or less equal platform, so purists and fans of new imaging technology will be equally enthralled.

Most visitors, however, will be fixated on the collection of antique cameras and photographic equipment housed on the top floor. After musing over the miscellany of antique Linhofs, classic Leicas, and evergreen Kodaks, taking a photograph using a telephone will seem faintly ridiculous.

Address: Largo Amor de Perdição, Cordoaria, Porto

Porto's historic center and the riverfront can be admired from a vintage tram during tours that take in several emblematic sights and cultural landmarks. Three different lines serve the destination, all offering a different perspective on Portugal's second city.

Line 1 begins near Ponte Dom Luís 1 . Depart from here on the "Riverside Line" to trundle west all the way to the coastal town of Foz do Douro , situated at the mouth of the River Douro and known for its nearby beaches and coves. This leisurely excursion is a favorite option in summer when you want to escape the city heat.

Line 18 is a restored track, part circular in design, and the shortest ride. The route passes Igreja do Carmo and ends, suitably, at the Museu do Carro Eléctrico , the tram museum.

Arguably the most rewarding circuit in terms of sightseeing and attractions is the Line 22 tour. On this route, the streetcar clatters and hisses past Torre dos Clérigos , Igreja do Carmo, and Café Majestic , among other visual showstoppers.

Porto is home to some of the country's best surfing for beginners , and you'll find breaks here to be consistent and less crowded than more famous spots in the Algarve to the south. A promenade runs for 1.6 miles from Foz do Douro to Matosinhos , which is a local favorite surf spot.

The beach has two breaks. One is in the protected harbor wall area, while the other is outwards from it. If you need a lesson or just need to rent some gear, there are plenty of surf schools and shops by the beach.

A vibrant and entertaining overview of everyday Porto can be gleaned by strolling the length of this broad double avenue. Lined on both sides with shops, stores, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, "Aliados" is the city's clamorous commercial hub.

At the foot of the thoroughfare lies Praça da Liberdade , but visitors can begin exploring by popping into the nearby Estação de São Bento , Porto's central railway station, to gaze upon the 20,000 or so dazzling azulejos depicting early modes of transport and the history of Portugal.

A slow amble north will take you to the Câmera Municipal , Porto's city hall, which crowns the top of the avenue. From here, turn right along Rua Formosa until you reach the site of the historic Mercado do Bolhão .

The market hall is currently undergoing a much-needed refurbishment and is closed until at least the end of 2020. However, a temporary market has been created just beyond the main structure past the Bolhão Metro station. Here, you can still purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, household goods, and handicrafts. If you're traveling on a budget, stock up on cheese and freshly baked bread rolls and head back down the opposite side of the avenue to enjoy a picnic by the river.

Porto is a largely vertical city clinging to the river bank, so map distances can be deceiving, and places that seem close can be a long, steep climb apart. A few main attractions are close together near the riverside, while others cluster around Praça da Liberdade, both convenient locations for hotels. The best views are from Vila Nova de Gaia just across the river. Here are some highly rated hotels in Porto:

• Luxury Hotels : InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas overlooks Praca da Liberdade, near Sao Bento station and a short walk from the Carmelite church and Torre dos Clerigos. In terraced grounds with views from every room, The Yeatman is a contemporary resort-style hotel with a spa, in- and outdoor pools, and Michelin-starred dining in Vila Nova de Gaia. You'll feel like a star entering the glamorous film-set lobby of the well-located Hotel Infante Sagres , updated to highlight its classic old-world elegance and add a stylish contemporary flair to the rooms.
• Mid-Range Hotels: In the old town, with river views, boutique Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel offers budget-friendly luxury, between Torre dos Clerigos and Sao Francisco, a five-minute walk from the Ribeira. In the upper city, near the Carmelite church, less than a 10-minute walk to the old town, Eurostars Das Artes Hotel is handy to restaurants and the Soares dos Reis museum. In the old town, near Sao Francisco and the Bolsa and a three-minute walk from the Ribeira shore, Carris Porto Ribeira blends modern décor with vintage features.
• Budget Hotels: Overlooking Praca da Liberdade near Sao Bento station, Hotel Universal is close to restaurants and 15 minutes from the port. Nearby Vera Cruz Porto Hotel offers free breakfast with panoramic views. Also including breakfast, Hotel da Bolsa is just up the street from the Bolsa and Sao Francisco church, a short downhill walk to the river past local restaurants and shops.

Porto's Sá Carneiro International Airport is located in Maia, 10 kilometers north of the city center.

You can easily get to central Porto using the Metro. Line E (purple) runs every 20 minutes during weekdays, and around every half an hour on weekends and holidays. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines or at the airport's tourist information office.

Conventional taxis and Uber circulate throughout Porto, and serve the airport.

Pedestrianized Rua de Santa Catarina is lined with an interesting mix of international fashion chain stores and boutiques, and local, family-run businesses. The plush Via Catarina shopping mall is located here.

If you're in town on the second and last Saturday of every month, saunter along to Rua Candido dos Reis and the vibrant Mercadinho dos Clérigos. One of the city's most authentic markets, this is where to pick up decorative handicraft, vintage clothing, and antique objets d'art.

Porto's proximity to the ocean affords some rewarding beach escape options. The upmarket seafront suburb of Foz do Douro, reached by bus and tram, sits at the mouth of the River Douro and serves as the attractive gateway to the city's nearest beaches.

Praia de Matosinhos : A locals' favorite, Matosinhos is the largest beach, with easy access to the city center, and is perfect for spending a lazy day in the sun. Regular Atlantic swells draw surfers and bodyboarders, and there are surfing schools based along the esplanade.

Praia do Molhe : A picturesque promenade replete with a 1930s-era pergola overlooks this pleasant pocket of sand. This is a lovely place to sit and watch the sun go down, perhaps over refreshments at the beachfront café.

Several destinations make worthwhile day trips including Guimarães , located 57 kilometers northwest. Often called the "Cradle of Portugal" — a reference to the city's historical status as the birthplace of the nation — Guimarães glows under UNESCO World Heritage status for its well-preserved medieval quarter.

Journey another 20 kilometers north and you arrive at Braga , once the seat of Portugal's archbishops and still regarded as the country's ecclesiastical capital. Both these destinations can be explored by embarking on a small group tour from Porto.

A quick 45-minute drive east from Porto takes you to the beautiful riverside town of Amarante. Straddling both sides of the River Tâmega, this picture-perfect gem of a destination is forever associated with São Gonçalo, a 12 th -century saint whose name belongs to the town's famous bridge, which crosses to the 16 th -century Igreja e Convento de São Gonçalo.

Porto is the gateway to northern Portugal, and the entire region has its own fair share of memorable places to visit.

High up near the border with Spain is the coastal city of Viana do Castelo. Try and time a visit to coincide with the annual Romaria Nossa Senhora da Agonia, a fantastic four-day costumed festival that takes place in August.

Vila Real is a convenient starting point from which to explore the upper reaches of the Douro Valley. The town is also roughly midway between Porto and remote Bragança, famed for its 12 th -century walled citadel.

For a better idea of where to go and what to do, take a look at our Portugal itineraries page.

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Porto   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sebastien Gaborit | Getty

23 Best Things To Do in Porto

Updated Mar. 18, 2024

The charms of Porto are plentiful and this city's laid-back vibe gives travelers to Europe a much-needed respite from the faster-paced, museum packed cities nearby. In Porto, you can take in the arresting views of the Rio Douro from a stroll

• All Things To Do

Dom Luís I Bridge Dom Luís I Bridge free

This iconic arching iron bridge straddles the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. Though Porto is known for having quite a few bridges, the Dom Luis I Bridge is especially renowned because it was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Plus, at the time of its completion in 1886, this bridge was the longest iron arch in the world. The bridge accommodates cars on its lower level and Porto's metro on its upper level; pedestrians can walk along the bridge on both levels. Stroll along the upper deck of the bridge and you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the edifices built into the hillside cliffs that line the river.

Admiring the bridge's composition and the views it offers is something all visitors to Porto must do, travelers consistently attest. A visit here would pair well with a stop at some of Porto's nearby wineries across the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia. Another option would be to hop on a Douro River cruise or boat tour, which would allow you to see all six bridges in one go.

Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral) Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral) free

Perched on a hilltop standing watch over the city, the Porto Cathedral (known as the Sé) was originally built between the 12th and 13th centuries, and features a variety of architectural styles, including Romanesque, baroque and gothic. The fortress-like church is the largest in the city and one of Porto's oldest monuments; it's flanked by twin towers. It has a rather plain stone facade, but inside the Sé you'll find a beautiful stained-glass rose window, a collection of centuries-old sculptures and a silver altarpiece that was once used as the bishop's study. Meanwhile, the cloister boasts cobalt and white ceramic tiles that depict different scenes from religious history.

Most travelers, noting that the exterior is remarkable but the interior is exquisite, say visiting the church and cloister is absolutely worth an hour or two. This particular attraction is also popular with visitors thanks to its vantage point. You can meander along the terrace outside the church and admire the views (and take photos) of Porto's terra cotta-colored rooftops below.

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens) Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens) free

The Crystal Palace Gardens boast green shrubbery, winding walkways, bright flora and bubbling fountains. Bring your camera along because you'll find plenty of photo opportunities here: Everything from the flower varieties to the expansive views of the Douro River beckons for your attention. (And if you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the peacocks that roam the gardens.) The park's name comes from the Crystal Palace that once stood here, though it was torn down in 1956 and replaced with a domed pavilion that houses a sporting arena and a multi-purpose events center, which was refurbished in 2019.

Visitors routinely rave about the panoramic views afforded from this hilltop park.

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Avenida dos Aliados (Avenue of the Allies) Avenida dos Aliados (Avenue of the Allies) free

Porto's main thoroughfare, Avenida dos Aliados, features a smattering of cafes, hotels , banks and boutiques all housed in architecturally impressive buildings. Located in the heart of Porto, just southeast of the famous Bolh ã o Market , this wide avenue is named to honor an alliance between Portugal and England forged in the 14th century. Most of the buildings showcase intricate design in their cupolas and cornices. Points of interests include Porto's granite and marble town hall (which sits at the northern end of Avenida dos Aliados), General Humberto Delgado Square (marked by a few trees and situated in the center of the avenue) and Liberdade Square (which serves as the anchor to the avenue and is marked by a statue of King Pedro IV riding a horse). The central portion of the boulevard often hosts artists, street performers and festivals.

The best way to enjoy Avenida dos Aliados is by strolling along the street to revel in its buzzing atmosphere, and pick a cozy spot to order some café (coffee). Be sure to bring your camera or phone to snap some scenes of daily life in Porto.

Port Wine Tastings & Tours Port Wine Tastings & Tours

A visit to Porto wouldn't be complete without a stop to sample the city's most notable export  — port wine. You'll find dozens of wine cellars scattered throughout Porto, and there's even a Port Wine Museum dedicated to teaching the history of the port wine trade and production development. But if you're more interested in imbibing, head to one (or several) of Porto's top wineries.

Sogrape Vinhos owns Ferreria , Sandeman and Offley cellars, and all three northern Vila Nova de Gaia venues are within walking distance of one another. Start at Ferreira, the westernmost winery, which was built in 1751 and has long played an important role in Porto's winemaking history thanks to its family of notable winemakers. Head east along Avenida Ramos Pinto and you'll happen upon your next stop, Sandeman Porto Cellars. Sandeman is the most recognizable wine cellars in the region, situated along the picturesque banks of the Douro River and boasting massive white lettering spelling out the winery's name. This winery also features various paintings, photographs, antique bottles and other trinkets that outline the history of the Sandeman brand. South of Sandeman you'll find Offley Cellars; built in 1737, the Offley cellar is the eldest of those owned by the Sogrape Vinhos brand. A singular visit to tour and sample wines at one of the Sogrape Vinhos cellars costs anywhere from 14 to 42 euros (about $15.50 to $47) depending on what type of experience you seek. (Some packages include tastings with a wider variety of wines, some boast a more intimate experience and some include tapas samplings as well.)

Parque da Cidade do Porto (Porto City Park) Parque da Cidade do Porto (Porto City Park) free

Parque da Cidade do Porto, or Porto City Park, ranks as one of the largest parks in northern Portugal at more than 200 acres. It has more than 6 miles of trails for biking and walking, and it is a popular spot for picnics and other outdoor activities, particularly on weekends. In addition to lakes and lawns and diverse flora and fauna, the park contains the Sea Life Porto , a privately run aquarium with thousands of marine animals, and the Pavilhão da Água (Water Pavilion), which was originally part of Expo 98 in Lisbon , but was reconstructed in the park and emphasizes the importance of water to Portugal's history and culture.

The park extends to the Atlantic Ocean and affords access to the area's beaches , a much-appreciated feature. Parkgoers describe Parque da Cidade as well-organized and well-maintained. As would be expected, adults and children alike love the park.

Estação de São Bento (São Bento Railway Station) Estação de São Bento (São Bento Railway Station) free

Built on the former site of a Benedictine monastery, the São Bento Railway Station was inaugurated in 1916; today, trains pass through here carrying travelers between Porto and many of its northern suburbs. But you likely won't be visiting here to hop a train anywhere. What's notable about this landmark is its 20,000-some painted blue and white tile panels (known as azulejo ) that highlight the history of Portugal. Portuguese artist Jorge Colaco is the mastermind behind this azulejo piece; its tiles were mounted over the course of a decade  –  from 1905 to 1916. Some of the most impressive scenes include King Joao I and Queen Philippa standing near the city's cathedral in 1387 and a depiction of the Battle of Arcos de Valdevez.

While it may seem unusual to see such detailed artwork in a train station, travelers consistently describe it as mightily impressive and not to be missed.

Capela das Almas Capela das Almas free

While the Igreja do Carmo features imagery made from blue- and white-painted tiles on one side, the Capela das Almas (also known as the Chapel of Souls or St. Catherine Chapel), has such tiles on a side wall as well as its front facade – 16,000 tiles in all. Like Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas dates back to the 18th century, though the colorful tilework was added in the early 20th century. The azulejo, as the tiles are known, here depict episodes from the lives of the saints, including the martyrdom of its dedicatee, St. Catherine. The stained-glass windows date back to the 19th century.

As with the other similarly decorated church, the Capela das Almas earns enthusiastic praise for its attention-grabbing external tiles. Even so, it's worth peeking inside too.

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Mercado do Bolhão (Bolhão Market) Mercado do Bolhão (Bolhão Market) free

Scents of sweet fruit, freshly baked bread and aromatic cheeses greet visitors as soon as they enter the Mercado do Bolhão. This open-air market is reminiscent of many you'll find in Europe, with vendors hawking a variety of fresh goods and homemade wares at very affordable prices. The market, which dates back to the mid-1800s, is housed behind a neoclassical facade in a two-story building in the heart of Porto that opened in 1914. It received a massive restoration and modernization; the work was unveiled in 2022.

Visitors generally appreciate the market, noting a wide array of delectable treats. Many were complimentary of the renovation, but some noted it seemed too touristy now.

Porto Beaches Porto Beaches free

Porto's location along Portugal's northwestern coast grants the city access to some prime beachfront. If you find yourself experiencing a sunny day, visiting Portugal's northwest coast is a great way to pass the time. In Foz do Douro, located east of the city center along Avenida do Brasil, you'll find a handful of small beaches, like Praia do Molhe and Praia de Gondarem. Close to the Praia do Molhe you'll find the Pergola da Foz, a neoclassical pergola modeled after the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France ; it's the perfect spot for watching the sunset. Though picturesque, the terrain just offshore is a little rocky, so swimming isn't advised. But you can still bring a towel to lie on the sand, soak up the sun and dip your feet in the cool Atlantic for a little refreshment. Speaking of refreshment, this area of Porto is also packed with plenty of beachfront bars, restaurants and cafes  – it's quite a popular place to enjoy the outdoors both day and night.

Meanwhile in the town just south of the Porto city center, Vila Nova de Gaia, you'll happen upon beaches with soft white sand and conditions more suitable for swimming. The beaches of Vila Nova de Gaia are known for their impeccable water quality, environmental awareness and safety  – awarded and recognized with blue flags  – making them some of the most impressive in Portugal. Both active types and those looking for a little R&R will find a day at one of these beaches enjoyable: The shorelines here feature amenities like volleyball nets, bike paths and shaded cabanas.

Igreja de São Francisco (Church of Saint Francis) Igreja de São Francisco (Church of Saint Francis)

The Igreja de São Francisco looks rather plain on the outside, sporting a stone facade with elements of gothic and baroque styles, but step inside and you'll see gold: lots and lots of it. An abundance of gilt wood carvings (reportedly more than 800 pounds of gold) make up the columns, vaulted ceilings and walls of this church, which started to take shape in 1245. A traveler favorite amid the luster is the Tree of Jesse, a massive family tree sculpture that traces Christ's genealogy and dates back to 1718.

The Igreja de São Francisco is located right next to the Pal á cio da Bolsa in the heart of Porto; it's easily accessible via the Sao Bento metro stop on the D (yellow) line. It can also be reached using the 1, 23, 49 and 57 bus lines or tram line 1. The church is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. November through February; from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. March through October; and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. July through September. Admission costs 3.50 euros (about $4) and 2.50 euros for students (about $2.75). Services are no longer held here regularly, though the church does host classical music concerts and some religious ceremonies like weddings and baptisms, so leave some flexibility in your schedule to come back later, if necessary.

Livraria Lello & Irmão (Lello Bookstore) Livraria Lello & Irmão (Lello Bookstore)

A bookstore may not seem like one of the most obvious things to see in a new city, but when the shop is consistently named one of the world's most beautiful, it's worth a visit. Situated among the cafes and shops along Rua das Carmelitas in downtown Porto, Livraria Lello easily stands out with its chalk white, neo-gothic facade featuring intricate carvings and two painted ladies (representing science and art). The early 20th century building's facade was fully refurbished in 2017. Step inside and you'll be even more impressed. The bookstore's interior is adorned with rich wooden paneling and colorful stained-glass windows, and boasts a regal ruby red staircase. As for the books, you can peruse an assortment of Portuguese fiction and nonfiction works, as well as a selection of books in English and French.

Travelers are often impressed by Livraria Lello's allure and say visitors should take a peek inside. Most visitors commend the charming atmosphere and exceptional artistry evident in the Livraria Lello's architecture (and judge it fully worth the small charge). The store also uses its basement space for readings, talks and conversations.

Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace)

One of the most-visited sites in Porto, the Palacio da Bolsa is renowned for its exquisite neoclassical facade and ornate gilded Arabian Hall. This massive building  – located in the historic center of Porto  – once acted as the city's stock exchange, wooing European bankers and investors alike. Today, you can tour the interior with a guide and see the glass-domed Patio das Nacoes (Hall of Nations) and the magnificently golden Salao Arabe (Arabian Hall, which was designed to mimic the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain ), as well as the numerous portraits that adorn the walls.

Travel experts and publications consistently laud the Palacio da Bolsa as a must-see stop in Porto. Some travelers say the tour price is a little high, but others note the sheer splendor of the interior and say learning the history behind the building is worth the price.

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Fundação de Serralves (Serralves Foundation Complex) Fundação de Serralves (Serralves Foundation Complex)

The Fundação de Serralves comprises a park, a villa, a contemporary art museum and a cinema all set on nearly 45 acres of land in western Porto. Billed as a cultural institution, the foundation aims to "raise the awareness and knowledge amongst audiences from different backgrounds and age groups, in relation to contemporary art, architecture and the landscape." The villa and park were the first to open (in the 1930s); the villa is often touted by architecture experts and historians as the most noteworthy example of an art deco building in Portugal and it was declared a national monument in 2012. Inside, the villa is laid out like a private residence (as it was originally such) and hosts temporary art exhibits throughout the year. Situated on one of the highest points of the complex, the villa overlooks the park, which features lush gardens, exotic plants, winding pathways and even a farm. Permanent sculptures pepper the premises as well. Meanwhile, the Serralves Museum opened in 1999 and boasts 14 exhibition galleries across three floors. Today, the museum features rotating art exhibits, music and dance performances, and educational programs. The Caso do Cinema (or House of Cinema) opened in 2019.

Although it's a bit removed from other top attractions around Porto, the Fundação de Serralves is well worth a visit for its beautiful gardens and interesting art, travelers say. Also, if you happen to be visiting in early June, you can take part in the museum's annual Serralves em Festa festival, which offers a plethora of free contemporary art and cultural events and performances.

Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis (National Museum Soares dos Reis) Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis (National Museum Soares dos Reis)

Founded in 1833, the Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis ranks as Portugal's first public art museum. Art lovers will appreciate the expansive collection as well as the ornate building that it occupies. Housed in a former royal residence, the museum features much of the work of its namesake, Antonio Soares dos Reis, including his famous marble sculpture, "O Desterrado" ("The Exile"). Inside the museum you'll find a vast selection of Portuguese paintings and sculptures from the 16th to 20th centuries created by a variety of artists. The museum also features furniture, jewelry, fabric work and glassware.

Visitors frequently remark on both the beauty of the extensive collections and the regal building itself.

Dragão Stadium Dragão Stadium

While Portugal may not be as well-known for having avid soccer fans as Spain or England, the Portuguese still love their futebol . Porto's home team, F.C. Porto, is one of the country's "Big Three"  – the three most successful multi-sports clubs in Portugal  – and plays in Dragao Stadium. You can take a tour of the stadium: A guide will escort you to see the presidential box, locker rooms and players' benches. Or, skip the tour and explore the on-site museum, which highlights F.C. Porto's history and showcases trophies like the UEFA Cup and European Super Cup. But if you really want to experience the stadium come alive, get a ticket to a soccer match.

While tickets for games can be pricey, most travelers say it's well worth the cost to see the passionate fans and talented players. Indeed, some regard Dragao Stadium as one of the best to visit in Europe.

Clérigos Church Clérigos Church free

Clérigos Church, an 18th-century baroque building topped by the nearly 250-foot Torre dos Clérigos (or Clérigos Tower), offers unrivalled views of the Douro River and Porto's old town. The Torre is the tallest bell tower in the city and boasts 49 resonant bells. The structure also houses a museum, the House of the Brotherhood, with artifacts related to the clerics who founded the church.

While the museum and church are generally deemed worth seeing, the sweeping city views from the tower are what travelers deem as the best part of the visit. Note, there are more than 200 steps to climb to reach the top, so it takes some effort see the sights and snap your photos. Also note that this is a popular spot and the viewing area can get crowded. As such, many recommend heading here early so you won't have to deal with too long of a line, if any.

Cais da Ribeira Cais da Ribeira free

The Cais da Ribeira, a riverfront promenade along the Douro in the vicinity of the Dom Luis I Bridge , is considered one of the liveliest parts of town. During the day, it's an ideal spot to see the neatly stacked pastel-colored houses facing the water. Many restaurants in the area have terraces from which you can enjoy the nighttime views of the river and the bridge along with traditional cuisine as well.

While many people find this area a pleasant place to walk, dine, sightsee and people-watch, some find it overrun with tourists and deem its eateries correspondingly overpriced. Most agree, however, that the spectacular views make a stop here essential.

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Igreja do Carmo Igreja do Carmo free

The rococo Igreja do Carmo, or Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, built in the mid-18th century, houses numerous oil paintings and several elaborate gilt altars. The exterior boasts a tile mosaic, added in the early 20th century, depicting scenes relating to the founding of the Carmelite Order. (Another, older church, the Igreja dos Carmelitas, sits almost immediately next door, separated only by a very narrow residence, evidently intended to keep the monks and nuns from the respective churches from interacting in any untoward way. Popular destinations like Livraria Lello bookshop and Clérigos Church and Tower are also nearby.)  

Visitors say the blue and white azulejo tiles adorning the outside of the church are particularly impressive. That doesn't mean you shouldn't venture inside, however, as the sculptures, altars and decorations are judged to be quite striking as well.

Porto Bridge Climb Porto Bridge Climb

The Porto Bridge Climb offers spectacular views of the surrounding area from a distinctive perspective. When the Arrábida Bridge spanning the Douro River was completed in 1963, it stood as the longest concrete arch bridge in the world. While it no longer holds that record, its 885-foot arch remains one of the world's largest, and it is the only structure of its kind in Europe open to the public. Indeed, only a few bridges in Australia and New Zealand offer a comparable experience. Travelers are in a harness that connects to a cable, which runs the length of the bridge's arch. Visitors will be led by a guide up the stairs along the arch and have a handrail they can hold on to along the way.

Bridge-climbers report that the outing is less strenuous than one might expect and that the views of the sunset and the river made it something not to miss.

Casa da Música Casa da Música

The Casa da Música, a modernist concrete concert hall designed by famed Dutch architect Remment (Rem) Koolhaas, opened in 2005. In addition to serving as the home of the 94-member Orquestra Sinfónica do Porto Casa da Música, the building hosts smaller ensembles. It also contains its own restaurant, a cafe and two bars as well a shop and an educational center. The main auditorium has 1,300 seats.

While the structure's angular design appears to provoke either love-it or hate-it responses, most agree that the Casa da Música is a world-class operation with top-notch performances and facilities.

Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar (Monastery of Serra do Pilar) Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar (Monastery of Serra do Pilar)

The Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, a circular former monastery, sits just across the Douro river from Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia. It takes its name from the mountain range on which it sits, the Serra do Pilar. It offers panoramic views of Porto's historic center and the Dom Luis I Bridge . (Together, the monastery, the bridge and the old town were added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1996.) Construction of the original round building commenced in the 16th century and was completed in the 17th century. Destroyed during the civil war in the 19th century, the structure was subsequently rebuilt. The Portuguese military owns and operates the facility.

While visitors typically find the architecture noteworthy, it's the views from the balcony surrounding the cloister's top that earn the most praise.

Igreja dos Carmelitas Igreja dos Carmelitas

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Porto Tourism Guide

Visiting one of europe's most charismatic cities and the douro valley -- two world heritage sites.

M ix monuments by leading world architects from the past and the present, and some fantastic baroque carvings. Add a world-famous sweet wine and a certain British flavor. Place it all by a grand river, and you have "O Porto," "the port," Porto -- Portugal's second largest metropolis, and one of Europe's most charismatic cities.

Porto was one of the last undiscovered European metropolises, but, thanks to direct flights from New York and numerous connections to and from the rest of Europe, it is now a popular city break destination.

But this is not a new city -- it's an ancient port steeped in history and tradition. It's a highly atmospheric place that has become known for its monuments by renowned architects (Gustave Eiffel's Dona Maria Bridge, Nicolau Nasoni's Clerigos Tower, Rem Koolhaas' Casa da Musica, or Siza Vieira's Serralves Museum), but just when you think you don't know much about this city, think again. This is the city that originated and named Port Wine , and gave birth to one of world history's legendary figures, Prince Henry the Navigator (you'll also see in new guidebooks that it is also the birthplace of that world-famous fictional character, Harry Potter -- author J. K. Rowling was living in Porto as an English teacher when she started writing her first book).

These are just a few curious facts about this intriguing and majestic city, and if you want to find out more, go on exploring this site. If you end up wishing to sample the city and its wine in person, consider our hotels suggestions (that can easily be booked online), as well as our sightseeing information and photos. This is your comprehensive guide to the city, whether or not you're planning to Go Oporto.

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The top 11 attractions in Porto

Planning a trip to Porto? These are the places you have to see

Move over Lisbon, you've had your time. It's Porto's moment to shine. Like the larger capital, Porto is coastal, has its fair share of hills and awe-inspiring architecture, and must-see attractions. The city's modest size makes it easy to navigate, which, in turn, means you can easily visit more than one of our top ten attractions in one day. Take a dip in an azure ocean-front pool, get snap happy in a nineteenth-century station or simply get your fill of the gorgeous Duoro River and the megalithic Dom Luis I iron bridge crosses it, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. And don't forget to try a tipple (or two) of port – this is the drink's hometown after all. Cheers!

Recommended: 🍳See the best places to enjoy brunch in Porto 🛏Stay at the  best Airbnbs in Porto 🏨Or book a stay at the  best hotels in Porto

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Best Porto attractions

1.  Porto Wine Cellars

Porto’s sister city Gaia has beaches and those famous Port wine cellars. They’re gorgeous, with guided tours to teach you the history of the stuff and the distinguishing features of each variety (there are many varieties of port). Every tour has a happy ending: a Port tasting. We recommend the Sandeman Cellars (Largo Miguel Bombarda, 3; the ones with the chap in the black cape), which include a museum; Taylor’s (Rua do Choupelo, 250), featuring the highly rated O Barão de Fladgate restaurant; and Cockburn’s (Rua Serpa Pinto, 346), where you can enjoy a picnic with some lip-smacking Portuguese delicacies.

Best for wine lovers and history buffs

Time Out tip: If you're not a fan of tours that seem to drag on, this one is the perfect length and can be enjoyed either in the morning or afternoon.

2.  Foz do Douro

Foz is almost a mini-city within Porto. In the nineteenth century, it was a seaside resort where Brits and well-heeled Porto residents went on holiday. Nowadays, visit it for its beaches (several of them have a blue flag), seaside-y outdoor cafés (try the ones at the Praia da Luz and iBar’s, located among the rocks), or a stroll in the sun along the Avenida do Brasil with its view of the Atlantic. Nearby is the Queijo Fort, the Passeio Alegre Fountain, the Felgueiras lighthouse, the Molhe Breakwater and Old Foz (a quainter part of the district). You can eat very well around here: try chef Pedro Lemos’s eponymous restaurant (for a splurge), Casa Vasco, Cafeína, or a burger at Peebz.

Best for beach walks

3.  Clérigos Tower

• Attractions
• Monuments and memorials

This ornate, 75-metre bell tower, which watches lovingly over the city of Porto, is arguably the city’s most iconic silhouette. It was opened in 1763 and is blessed with a beautiful barrage of Baroque motifs thanks to its Italian designer Nicolau Nasoni. Given its prominent position, you can get some amazing 360° views of the city from the top, but you’ll have to climb 225 steps to get there.

Best for historical architecture

4.  Livraria Lello

The Guardian  and travel website Lonely Planet picked this as the world’s third most beautiful bookstore. Are they having a laugh? It’s gorgeous! More than a century old, Lello is an art nouveau pearl with gothic details, stained  glass  and a fabulous red staircase, said to have inspired the one in Hogwarts (JK Rowling once lived in Porto). Harry Potter fans: make a beeline here immediately.  There are so many visitors these days that you are now charged to enter, but this is discounted with any purchase.  Plenty of tours   go   to the Lello Bookstore.

Best for: bookstore lovers

5.  Porto Cathedral

• Historic buildings and sites

Porto’s Cathedral (‘Sé’) is the city’s most important church. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, it’s a national monument. Look out for the gothic cloister, the chapel frescoes, the Teixeira Lopes sculpture in the baptistery and the medieval portrait of Our Lady of Vandoma, the city’s patron saint. When locals talk about the ‘Sé’, they don’t just mean the cathedral: the name also applies to the historic district at Porto’s heart. Wander its streets, keep Google Maps turned off and you’ll thank us for it.  

Best for: awe-inspiring arches and frescos, duh

6.  São Bento Train Station

The classic train station is a means to an end: it’s where you go to get somewhere else. And let’s face it, most train stations are not exactly great places to pass the time (although they do beat airport departure lounges). Estação de São Bento is a different beast. This former convent combines a Belle Epoque facade with an iconic interior decorated with 20,000 painted tiles. Artist Jorge Colaço adorned the walls with images from the country’s history, including – fittingly – scenes of everyday life and modes of transport. Just don’t get so caught up in gawping that you trip over a commuter. This busy station also links to Miramar, Braga, Guimarães and other popular destinations.

Best for: Intricate design

7.  Crystal Palace Gardens

• Parks and gardens

When Googling this park, if you’re faced with a bunch of fibreglass dinosaurs, then you’re in the wrong Crystal Palace. Despite the lack of prehistoric models, these gardens are somewhat more exotic than what London has to offer. Not only does this verdant paradise have a maze of walkways, tree-lined waterways, sculptured topiary and a huge domed pavilion (all thanks to German landscape architect Emile David), but it overlooks the Douro River too. Well worth the hike up there.

Best for: idyllic walks

8.  Marés Swimming Pool

• Things to do
• Leça da Palmeira

The benefits of a saltwater swim are legion, but as even the most dedicated wild swimmer will know, covering a decent distance in the open ocean can be tricky (not to mention, potentially dangerous). At Marés Pool , you get all the health-boosting pluses that an open-air salty swim brings with the luxury and calmness of a delicious lido. Stretch out tired muscles with a few good lengths of the pool, then retire to the surrounding rocks to admire the epic sea views surrounding Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira’s incredible creation.

Best for: a unique   paddling experience by the sea 

9.  Fundação de Serralves

• Cultural centres

This bucolic attraction is an absolute dream. A pink 1950s house stands proudly overlooking lush, beautifully manicured gardens, with its bountiful flora, fountains and modern art museum. What more could you want? The Álvaro Siza Vieira-designed, white box of a museum stands in stark contrast to its Art Deco neighbour, but is a wonderful addition to the grounds. Leave yourself the best part of a day to explore every bit of Fundação de Serralves thoroughly.

Best for: picturesque views - seriously, this place is a bucolic paradise 

Time Out tip: If you dig filmography,   We highly recommend leaving yourself enough time to catch some of Manoels del Oliviera's work on display in the House of Cinema. 

10.  Serra do Pilar

• Vila Nova de Gaia

The Serra do Pilar is a jagged hill above the Douro river on the Gaia side. Needless to say, the view is spectacular, especially at sunset. Visit the thirteenth-century monastery to find out more about the four World Heritage sites in Portugal’s northern region: the historic centres of Porto and Guimarães, the Douro wine region, and the Côa Archaeological Park.

Best for: hilltop views

11.  Ribeira Square

If you’re in Porto you absolutely, positively must visit Ribeira Square. This old city district located by the Douro is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Yes, it’s swarming with tourists, but don’t let that put you off. Cross the river in a  rabelo  boat; go wobbly looking at the Luíz I, D. Maria II and Arrábida bridges (great backgrounds for dramatic photos); visit the Bacalhoeiros Wall, the Casa do Infante museum, the Rua da Reboleira, Cubo square, São Nicolau Church and the ‘Alminhas da Ponte’, a sculpture by artist Teixeira da Lopes. Eat at the Adega de S. Nicolau (they sometimes have fado nights), drink at the Pestana Vintage Hotel’s amazing RIB bar, and then head up to the heights on the Guindais Funicular Railway. Phew!

Best for quaint cobblestone streets, cafes and a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture

Keen for more Porto inspo?

How to spend 48 hours in Porto

Doing any city in a weekend is a challenge, so allow us to give you a hand. Here’s where to eat and drink in Porto, what to do and see, and the places you shouldn’t miss. Hey, you can always come back!

Top 10 things to do in Foz

The smell of the sea, the sound of the waves and its endless gardens are what makes Foz one of the most beautiful areas in Porto. Promenades that go for miles and good food by the seaside – we give you ten reasons to fall in love with Foz. 

Top 10 things to do in Ribeira

• Walks and tours

Ribeira is the most photogenic bit of Porto. Cross the knee-trembling D. Luiz Bridge for an amazing view over Porto’s historic quarter. 

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Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 25 Best Things to Do in Porto (Portugal)

25 Best Things to Do in Porto (Portugal)

On the slopes above the Douro Estuary, Porto is a historic mercantile city with business and trade written into its very name. The centre is a World Heritage site, and you’ll be struck by how rich and varied this heritage can be: There are medieval walls, gleaming Baroque churches, the compact streets of the Ribeira district, the Romanesque Cathedral and that’s just the beginning.

Fortified port wine is still stored in warehouses on the south bank of the Douro, and if you track the river to the ocean you arrive at the stylish Foz do Douro district for beaches and hip restaurants.

Lets explore the best things to do in Porto :

1. Cais da Ribeira

A little chaotic and great fun to explore, Porto’s riverside area is a very picturesque piazza where tourists and locals mingle.

There are bars and restaurants around every corner, and these line the riverside walk too.

You’ll have a perfect shot of the iconic Luís I Bridge from here, and if you duck through the arcades there’s a confusing maze of steep streets and stairways  between pastel-painted houses in varying states of repair.

The Cais da Ribeira has been spruced up a little in the last few years and information boards have been installed to tell you about this district’s characters and businesses when it was Porto’s hive of commerce.

2. Serralves Museum & Villa

In the west of Porto there are several elements to Serralves that makes such a great day out.

First there’s the villa, Casa de Serralves, a graceful Art Deco property built between 1925 and 1944 and with designers like Charles Siclis and René Lalique recruited to craft the interiors.

The villa looks out on sumptuous terraced grounds with tree-lined avenues, topiaries, regimented lawns and pergolas.

Then on the other side of the park is the Contemporary Art Museum, which opened in 1999 for high-profile temporary exhibitions.

There are normally four or five on at the same time for present and past luminaries of modern and contemporary art, from Joan Miró to Liam Gillick.

Book online : Serralves Foundation Entry Ticket

3. Luís I Bridge

An industrial symbol for Porto, this twin-level metal arched bridge opened in 1886. It was conceived by the German engineer Théophile Seyrig who cofounded the Eiffel Company.

The bridge crosses the steep, rocky banks of the Douro and rises to almost 45 metres.

There’s a bird’s eye view of the Cais da Ribeira from the top level, which is also used by Porto’s light railway.

After that you could board the Funicular dos Guindais to get down to the waterside.

And if you still haven’t seen enough, cross on the lower deck for pedestrians and local road traffic.

4. Church of São Francisco

The last Gothic monument in Porto is this church completed in 1425. Wander around to the apse to ponder the long lancet windows and then head back to the main facade where an ornate portal is crested by a lovely rose window.

The interiors were redecorated from the 1500s to the 1700s and have some of the most lavish gilded woodwork you could hope to see.

The old Gothic vaults, walls and pillars are covered up by intricately carved panels representing birds, cherubs and foliage.

5. Palácio da Bolsa

Porto’s old stock exchange was built next to the Church of São Francisco after its cloisters burned down during the Siege of Porto in 1832. The exterior was finished by 1850 and has a Neoclassical design, while the eclectic interiors were decorated right up to the start of the 20th century.

You have to go in to comprehend the richness of the sculpture, decorative carvings, plasterwork, frescos, chandeliers and tiles.

The stuccoed Moorish Revival Salão Árabe is almost overwhelming, while the monumental Pátio das Nações courtyard is lit by an octagonal metal and glass roof.

Recommended tour : Palácio da Bolsa Guided Tour

6. Clérigos Church

The 75.6-metre-high tower of this Baroque church can be spotted from most parts of Porto and was the tallest building in the country when it was completed.

It’s a beautiful monument, with delicate carvings all the way up and a clock so high you need to take few steps back to be able to read it properly.

This was the last section of the church to be completed and dates to 1763, with a design inspired by the campaniles of Tuscany.

If you don’t mind the queue and the 240 steps you’ll be rewarded with a complete panorama of the city from the top.

Book online : Torre dos Clerigos Entrance Ticket

7. Praça da Liberdade

The grand open spaces of this square and boulevard in Santo Ildefonso feel a world away from the narrow streets of the Cais da Ribeira.

The Praça da Liberdade was plotted as a new urban layout in the 18th century and bounded to the south by the Neoclassical Palácio das Cardosas, an 18th-century convent turned hotel.

There’s an equestrian statue of Pedro IV of Brazil, remembered as a democratic reformer.

The streets around are some of the poshest in the city, with imposing civic buildings, designer boutiques and the Belle Époque Majestic Café on Rua Santa Catarina.

Related tour : Secret Sites of Porto 3-Hour Walking Tour

8. Casa da Música

A treasured modern addition to Porto’s cityscape, the Casa da Música is a concert hall that opened in 2005. Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas oversaw the design along with high-tech scenography and acoustics firms.

This is one of the rare music venues that is also worth seeing when nobody’s playing.

You can go in for a tour of the 1,300-seater venue, which tore up the rulebook on auditorium design and has two walls composed entirely of glass.

On some days you’ll be able to hear the orchestra rehearsing, and if that whets your appetite for high culture you can dress up in the evening to hear famous soloists and the Porto Symphony orchestra.

9. Foz do Douro

To blow away the cobwebs make for the Foz do Douro, a trendy district where the Douro enters the Ocean.

There’s a long promenade with palms and pines, and a pergola that you might recognise if you’ve been to Nice.

The Pergola da Foz was installed in the 1930s as the Mayor’s wife fell in love with the one on the Promenade des Anglais.

The Farol Molhe do Douro lighthouse meanwhile guided vessels in and out of the Douro for 120 years before being deactivated in 2009. New, modern restaurants pop up in this quarter by the week, and when the sun is setting you couldn’t ask for a more romantic backdrop for stroll.

10. Porto Cathedral

This stern-looking building calls the shots from the oldest part of Porto.

You’ll arrive on the Terreiro da Sé, an esplanade that lets you survey the city’s rooftops and monuments like the Clérigos Church Tower.

Despite going through a lot of changes over time, the cathedral has kept big pieces of its original 12th-century architecture.

When it was built it would have had a defensive role, as you may tell from the buttresses, arrow loops and crenellations.

Inside there’s a narrow Romanesque nave and choir, conducting you towards the apse, which got an opulent Baroque redesign in the 17th century.

Related tour : City Highlights 3-Hour Guided Electric Bike Tour

11. Beaches

With all your attention drawn to the Douro and the Ribeira you might neglect Porto’s beaches.

On a hot day you can dip your toes in the brisk Atlantic and clear your senses in the breeze.

If you want to include some of the outlying beaches a few minutes from the city you have at least 10 to choose from, many of which fly the Blue Flag every year.

The most convenient is Matosinhos, just past the Parque de Cidade and with a massive bay that seems boundless when the tide is out.

If you’re happy to travel a little don’t rule out the town of Miramar, which has a pretty 17th-century chapel on the rocks between its huge golden sandy beaches.

12. Muralha Fernandina

There’s a length of Porto’s 14th century wall just up from the Luís I Bridge and runs almost parallel to the funicular.

And although it belongs of the World Heritage Site, it’s an attraction a little underappreciated by tourists.

You can get onto battlements at Largo 1. de Dezembro, and at the entrance the wall is surrounded by a gorgeous little garden with orange trees.

As you walk the UNESCO signs will give you a little background on medieval Porto.

But best of all, the view of the Douro up here is unbeatable.

13. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

This was the site of Porto’s Crystal Palace, which lasted from 1865 to 1961 and was modelled on the monument in London.

These gardens were devised to complement that palace and were landscaped by the German Émile David.

His design is still in place, and there are fountains and allegorical sculptures to the seasons.

The gardens are planted with gingko, pines, camellias, rhododendrons and beech trees, and your path might be crossed by a peacock or two.

At the centre of the park the old palace was replaced by the semi-spherical Super Bock Arena (Pavilhão Rosa Mota), which hosts cultural and sports events.

14. Church of Santa Clara

Built next to the most prominent section of Porto’s medieval defensive walls, this church was completed in 1457 to replace a medieval convent.

It has a similar story to other religious buildings in the city, undergoing an extravagant update in the first half of the 18th century.

Shining against the red marble are gilded mouldings on the vaults, and gilded wooden carvings on the walls with such meticulous detail that it’s hard to take it all in.

In Portugal this style is known as “Barroco Joanino”, coming from the reign of John V when the Portuguese Empire was at the height of its prosperity.

15. Parque de Cidade

The Parque de Cidade is the largest urban park in Portugal, spreading out over 83 hectares and going as far west as the 17th-century Forte de São Francisco Xavier by the Atlantic.

After hours zigzagging through crowds, if you need somewhere to stroll or coast on a bike, come for these cool pine groves and abundant rolling lawns.

A motif throughout the park is stacks of rectangular granite stones that look like ancient foundations.

You also use the Parque de Cidade as a green detour on your way to the Praia do Matosinhos.

16. Soares dos Reis National Museum

This museum was founded in 1833 as an exhibition of religious art confiscated from Portuguese convents.

A lot of these pieces are still on display, while much of the earlier art was taken from followers of the deposed King Miguel I. It is named for António Soares dos Reis, a 19th century sculptor from Vila Nova de Gaia on the south bank of the Douro.

There are a few pieces by Soares dos Reis here as well as other vaunted Portuguese painters and sculptors like Silva Porto, Vieira Portuense, Domingos Sequeira and Miguel Ângelo Lupi.

17. Museu Romântico da Quinta da Macieirinha

At a wonderful location in Massarelos, beside the Palácio de Cristal gardens and with views of the Douro, this 18th-century mansion was a home for a succession of noble families.

Its most venerated resident was Charles Albert of Sardinia, who spent the last months of his life in exile here in 1849. The house has been kept as a museum to open a window on 19th-century noble life.

This attraction opened in 1972, and Charles Albert’s great-great grandson was called in to help the city choose furniture and decoration to make it as authentic as possible.

18. Douro River Trip

The Douro has travelled almost 900 kilometres from its source in Castile and León to reach the Atlantic at Porto.

And most people who spend some time on or next to the Douro agree that there’s something special about the river.

Around the Ribeira hour-long cruises are offered for around €15, and your guide will give you some insights about the port warehouses on the south bank, the Porto landmarks that soar high on the north bank and the various bridges.

Upriver on the eastern limit of the city is the Maria Pia Bridge, ten years older than the Luís I and built by Gustave Eiffel.

Book online : River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

19. Port Wine

It would be very easy, but probably not a good idea, to do nothing but drink port and tour cellars in Porto.

These are located on the south bank of the Douro in Vila Nova de Gaia.

A few, like Real Companhia Velha, Caves Sandeman and Taylor’s Port, have histories going back hundreds of years and come with museums documenting their story.

As for the wine, it becomes fortified by adding grape spirit, which halts fermentation and helps port keep its sweet flavour.

From them on it is stored in oak barrels for anything between two years and four decades depending on the style.

Related tour : Cálem Cellar Tour, Interactive Museum & Wine Tasting

20. FC Porto Museum

FC Porto are the second most successful in Portuguese football, having won the league 25 times and the cup 16 times.

Add to that two Champions League/European Cups and two UEFA Cup/Europa League titles and you’ve got a legacy worthy of a museum.

If you don’t know much about FC Porto you’ll soon realise what the team means to the city, and if you’re already a fan you can take a trip down memory lane, recalling greats like Deco, Mário Jardel and Teófilo Cubillas.

The museum is in the east stand of the Estádio do Dragão and celebrates iconic players, matches and titles using interactive technology and multimedia.

Available tour : FC Porto: Museum & Stadium Tour

21. Casa-Museu Guerra Junqueiro

Guerra Junqueiro was an influential author and poet whose writing helped set the tone for the Portuguese Revolution in 1910, which abolished the monarchy.

In 1940 his estate in the medieval quarter was donated to the city and became a museum in his honour.

You don’t need to be an expert in Portuguese literature to enjoy this exquisite baroque house and garden.

Guerra Junqueiro also had a taste for the finer things, and accumulated fine ceramic dishes from Nuremburg, faience from Viana do Castelo, plush furniture and a variety of religious art including some wonderful silverwork.

22. Livraria Lello

You have to call in at this delightful bookshop on Rua das Carmelitas.

The building goes back to 1906, though the actual business is much older, and the shop is often touted as one of the best in the world.

A lot of this is down to the architecture: The Livraria Lello has an Art Nouveau design, with plenty of nods to the Gothic in its traceries, murals and pinnacles on the facade.

The sinuous wooden staircase, ceiling piping and stained glass skylight inside are all stunning.

And for a celebrity endorsement, J.K. Rowling was a fan when she lived in Porto as an English teacher.

23. Igreja do Carmo

A little younger than Porto’s elaborate Baroque churches, the Igreja do Carmo has Rococo architecture from the 1750-60s.

What dazzles the crowds though is the side facade on Praça de Carlos Alberto.

Save for the stonework trimming the windows and ground, this wall is covered entirely with blue and white azulejos.

These tiles form one large image conveying  the origins of the Carmelite Order and Mount Carmel in Israel.

And if you can’t get enough of the Porto’s stunning gilded woodcarving there’s more inside this church in the side chapels and above the main altar.

24. Porto Bridge Climb

The Douro’s last bridge before the Atlantic is the Ponte da Arrábida, which opened in 1963. When it was finished it had the longest span of a concrete arch bridge on the world, and today 136,000 cars cross the structure ever 24 hours.

Now, while this information might be interesting, what has really put the Arrábida on the map is the new bridge-climbing activity.

You’ll be kitted out with safety gear will be attached to a safety line, before inching your way up the arch beneath the road crossing.

Once you get to the apex the Douro and the older part of Porto will be at your feet.

Suggested tour : Small Group Arrábida Bridge Climb Tour

25. Festa de São João

Short but sweet, Porto’s Festa de São João lasts for just one night on June 23rd (St John’s Eve). To commemorate their patron saint, people young and old take to streets hitting each other with mallets.

If that sounds sinister, these are light plastic toys that make a tame squeak.

So the air is filled with this noise as strangers attack each other, all in the name of good fun.

For grownups the party starts on the afternoon of the 23rd and may not end until sunrise the next morning after fireworks, grilled sardines, live music, drinking and lots of dancing.

25 Best Things to Do in Porto (Portugal):

• Cais da Ribeira
• Serralves Museum & Villa
• Luís I Bridge
• Church of São Francisco
• Palácio da Bolsa
• Clérigos Church
• Praça da Liberdade
• Casa da Música
• Foz do Douro
• Porto Cathedral
• Muralha Fernandina
• Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
• Church of Santa Clara
• Parque de Cidade
• Soares dos Reis National Museum
• Museu Romântico da Quinta da Macieirinha
• Douro River Trip
• FC Porto Museum
• Casa-Museu Guerra Junqueiro
• Livraria Lello
• Igreja do Carmo
• Porto Bridge Climb
• Festa de São João

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Perfect Porto Itinerary: How To Spend 1 to 5 Days in Porto, Portugal

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Our perfect Porto Itinerary features the best of the city and the Douro Valley region. From famous Porto attractions to Port Wine vineyards to prime viewpoints, our day-by-day guide shows visitors how to experience the top Porto sights in 1 to 5 days. 

We created this itinerary when friends met up with us in Porto for a five day trip. We were excited to show them the amazing allure of one of our favorite European cities, so we packed their itinerary for Porto with our preferred spots, hidden gems and best eats. Now, we’re sharing it all with you! 

Planning a Porto Itinerary

Planning a trip to Porto takes some effort because there really is so much to experience! While it is a relatively small city, intriguing Porto sights are spread far, wide, high and low.

To really appreciate the charm of Porto it is sometimes best to simply wander down narrow lanes and trek up steep staircases. Porto beaches along the Atlantic Ocean are just a tram ride away and the vineyard covered Douro Valley is accessible by car, train or tour.

With so much to see and do in Porto, visitors need an excellent plan – and our Porto Itinerary provides just that!

How Many Days in Porto, Portugal?

Determining how many days to spend in Porto depends on your overall Portugal Itinerary (or your complete European Itinerary , for that matter). We think you need at least 2 days in Porto, but those staying longer will have no problem filling their days – and their stomachs!

Because visitors to Porto will likely be on different timelines, we have designed a Porto Itinerary for 5 days, with each day building on the previous. So if you are trying to see the Best of Porto in a Day, creating a 3-Day Porto Itinerary or have 5 Days to Spend in Porto, we’ve got you covered! 

Itinerary for Porto Summary

We provide detailed information in our Itinerary of Porto below, but this summary highlights our recommended trip plan.

One Day in Porto

See top Porto sights and take a river boat ride, then sample Port wine and Fado music. Dinner at a local market.

Porto Itinerary 2 Days

Enjoy wandering Old Town, a seafood lunch in Matosinhos and coastal exploration. Eat a Francesinha for dinner and taste local craft beer.

3 Day Porto Itinerary

Take a day trip to the Douro Valley for a tour and tasting at a Port wine estate. Have a casual dinner at Porto’s most famous sandwich shop.

Porto Itinerary 4 Days

Spend the morning exploring the urban parks, then discover a Porto museum in the afternoon. Eat Petiscos – Porto-style tapas – for dinner.

5 Day Porto Itinerary

Embark on a day trip – either north to historic Braga or south to beautiful Aveiro. For dinner, feast on a traditional Portuguese meal.

Organizing your Porto Trip

As you make your plans, you will want to make sure you keep the details of your vacation to Portugal organized. We suggest using our Travel Planning Printables to keep track of the specifics of your trip! 

Our Porto Itinerary

Our Porto Itinerary includes everything you need to plan your trip. In addition to our day-by-day sightseeing adventures, we also include advice on where to stay in Porto, hacks on what to pack and suggestions about getting there and around. Plus, we share additional Portugal travel tips that include Lisbon and other top destinations. 

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Porto Itinerary to plan your trip to Portugal!

1-Day Porto Itinerary

We don’t think one day in Porto, Portugal is enough…but if it is all the time you have, then we recommend making the absolute most of it! Ambitious explorers with a good plan can squeeze in a lot of sightseeing when visiting Porto in one day, and we’ll show you how to maximize your time.

We recommend planning a Porto 1-Day Itinerary that features the highlights of the city and a taste of the local Portuguese cuisine. Start by seeing the sights on a walking tour and taking in the views on a river boat trip. End the day learning about Port wine, listening to Fado music and eating typical Porto fare. 

Porto Walking Tour

Make your way to prime Porto sights on a walking tour through the historic old town center, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can use our free step-by-step, self-guided Porto Walking Tour that navigates to the top attractions.

Must-see Porto sights along the route are the beautiful Sao Bento Station, the iconic Clerigos Tower, the incredible Livraria Lello book store and the recently renovated Mercado do Bolhão.

Our outlined walk also includes several stunning Porto viewpoints and the Porto Se Cathedral. Finish the walk by crossing the famous Luis the 1st Bridge to the port wine cellars in Gaia.

Alternative Option: Guided Tours in Porto

Travelers attempting to visit Porto in one day might find that it is easier to leave the details to someone else. There are an array of top-rated tours that aim to help tourists who are short on time get a full dose of the city.

Visitors can join a local on a Guided Walk of Porto – or upgrade the experience and combine sightseeing, culture, food and drink on a single guided tour. 

Guests can participate in a Secret Porto Food Tour that includes locals-only spots or join an excursion that highlights the premier food and beverage on a Porto Food and Wine Tour . For a guided introduction to the latest from independent Porto breweries and traditional Portuguese snacks, book a spot on the Craft Beer and Food Tour .

Douro River Boat Tour

After your walking tour, set sail on the Douro River in a traditional boat. The incredibly popular 6 Bridge Boat Ride is a fantastic way to see Porto from an alternate vantage point. The 50-minute Rabello boat ride departs frequently from both the Ribeira and Gaia waterfronts. 

Port Tasting with Fado Performance

In the evening, combine two of Portugal’s best activities – Port Wine Tasting and a Fado Performance – at a Porto wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. First, learn about how Port Wine is made on a guided cellar tour, then enjoy a tasting while listening to the soulful sound of Fado.

Pro Tip : Tickets for the Port tasting and Fado show need to be booked in advance !

While Fado was born in the Alfama district in Lisbon, there are many Fado singers in Porto. Visitors have several options for listening to a live Fado performance, even with a Porto Itinerary 1 Day. While a combined Port Wine Cellar Tour with Fado experience is our top pick, other options include Fado with Dinner ( get the details ) or Fado on Stage ( pre-book now ).

Dinner of Local Portuguese Cuisine

End your Porto One Day Itinerary with a feast of Portuguese fare at the Mercado Municipal de Gaia. The marketplace features stalls representing some of the celebrated restaurants in Porto. Visitors can sample an array of traditional Porto dishes – like Bacalhau com Natas, Bifanas and codfish cakes – as well as a selection of international cuisine.

Pro Tip: Use our guide on the Best Porto Food for advice on what to eat!

Most vendors at this food hall also sell local wine by the glass and, of course, Port. At the center of the market there is a Super Bock beer station (the locally brewed commercial beer) where guests can create tasting boards to match their palate.

Porto 2-Day Itinerary

With 2 Days in Porto, visitors have the opportunity branch out and see much more. In our Porto 2 Day Itinerary, you will go beyond the city center to explore the districts along the Atlantic Coastline.

Spend the afternoon eating fresh-caught fish, walking on the beach and savoring the salty sea air. Then, get back to Porto in the evening for a fun night of local bar snacks and craft beer!

Wandering the Ribeira District

Early risers can start their second morning by wandering and marveling in the ancient lanes of the Ribeira District. Enjoy a breakfast of local pastries and fresh squeezed orange juice. Spend an hour or two getting lost in the tangle of Porto streets and lanes, watching the city come to life.

Explore Matosinhos and Eat Seafood

Next up on your Porto 2 Day Itinerary is the coastal neighborhood of Matosinhos. Travel to the Matosinhos District by Bus #500 or Metro. The ancient seaside settlement has roots as a fishing village, but has grown tremendously in modern times. In addition to the vast port and contemporary cruise ship terminal, the area features a wide beach that’s popular with sun worshippers and soul surfers.

However, Matosinhos is best know as the place to eat fresh grilled seafood in Porto. At lunchtime, the restaurants (of which there are more than 600 in the small community) fire up their grills and cook fresh fish over hot coals. We recommend eating grilled squid and other seafood delicacies at Restaurante O Lusitano. 

After a filling lunch, spend some time on Matosinhos Beach and then walk off your meal with a stroll south along the coast toward Foz. Stop at the Sao Francisco Xavier Fort and consider a detour onto one of the trails at Parque da Cidade do Porto (Porto City Park).

Walk Along the Coast to Foz do Douro

Continue walking south along the rugged shoreline, passing through the picturesque Pergola da Foz. For a sweet treat, stop of Tavi Confeitaria. Visit the Sao Joao Baptista Fort and walk out to the 19th century Felgueiras Lighthouse. Use caution and watch out for the large waves that sometimes splash over the railing and seawall!

From the Foz Lighthouse, visit the Fortaleza de São João da Foz and continue your trek through the pretty Jardim do Passeio Alegre Park. Next, hop on Classic Tram #1 for an old school ride back into Porto city center.

Virtudes Miradouro Viewpoint Park

Disembark the tram at the second to last stop, Alfandega, and perhaps pop into the World of Discoveries or Transport Museum. Then, wind your way up through the Miragaia Neighborhood (past Sao Pedro de Miragaia Church) to Virtudes Park. The west-facing viewpoint is a popular hangout – especially at sunset – for amazing views over Porto.

Pro Tip : Join Porto locals along with other visitors and grab a bottle of Portuguese wine and some snacks from the Spar Market to enjoy at the scenic panorama – or order a fresh craft beer from Musa.

Craft Beer in Porto

As in other European cities (like Budapest , Amsterdam and Paris ), the Craft Beer Scene in Porto is coming on strong. Travelers who appreciate better beer will definitely want to make room in their Porto trip plan to sample a few.

We recommend heading to one of the dedicated craft beer bars in Porto. In addition to Musa, visitors can get a taste of locally produced microbrews at other nearby spots, like Cervejaria do Carmo, Baobab or Catraio Craft Beer Shop.

Pro Tip : We share more about what and where to drink in our Porto Craft Beer Guide .

Francesinha for Dinner

The Francesinha is a must-eat when visiting Porto in 2 days. Nearly every café and restaurant in the city makes the iconic, gut-busting sandwich, but we believe O Afonso makes the best ones. Fair warning; they’re big enough to share, especially with the essential order of fries!

Pro Tip : O Afonso is one of the featured restaurants in our guide of What and Where To Eat in Porto . 

3 Days in Porto Itinerary

Building on our 2-Day Porto Itinerary, spend your third day discovering the Port Wine vineyards of the Douro Valley, where they have been growing and processing grapes for centuries.

To wrap up your 3 Days Porto Itinerary, you’ll return to the city for the evening and enjoy another classic and satisfying Portuguese meal at one of the top dining establishments!

Day Trip to Douro Valley

While the Douro Valley is nearby, a full day is required to tour the region. Those visiting Porto in 3 Days can join one of the highly rated guided Douro Valley Tours or plan their own trip.

The most popular guided tour provides minivan transportation, Port Wine tastings at two estates, an included lunch of typical cuisine and a Douro River cruise on a traditional Rabelo boat. Reserve your seat now!

DIY Porto-Douro Valley Itinerary

Rather than joining a tour during your Porto 3 Day Itinerary, you can opt to plan our own day trip from Porto to Pinhao. While the DIY trip will likely be limited to visiting only one winery that is within walking distance of the train station, it is still a great introduction to the most famous Portuguese wine region (and will cost a fraction of the price for a tour).

Depart Porto on the 9am train and arrive in Pinhao around 11:30. After a quick walk around town, indulge in a delicious traditional lunch at Segredos do Douro, which is right across from the train station.

Walk off the meal on a short jaunt through the vineyards towards Croft Port at Quinta da Roeda, where you can join an inexpensive vineyard tour and Porto wine tasting ( book in advance ). Afterwards, stroll back into Pinhao in time to catch the 4pm train to Porto.

Pro Tip : We would not recommend this as one of the things to do in Porto with kids, as the children on our vineyard tour and tasting were utterly bored and distracting to fellow guests. 

Dinner in Porto

Complete your third day with a casual dinner at one of Porto’s most popular restaurants: Casa Guedes. The house specialty is a tender roasted pork and sheep cheese sandwich. It’s so simple, yet so divine!

Pro Tip : Casa Guedes now has four locations in Porto, but the original spot, Casa Guedes Tradicional, is our favorite.

Alternatively, take a break from traditional Portuguese food and try out some international cuisine. Our preferred place for a truly exceptional burger in Porto is Simplex Virtus, which also features a nice line-up of craft beer. If burgers aren’t your jam, check out TerraPlana, where they make incredible pizzas that pair nicely with their creative cocktails.

4 Days in Porto Itinerary

Building off our 3 Day Porto Itinerary, those with 4 Days in Porto can take in many of the sights that long weekend visitors miss! In our 4-Day Porto Itinerary, we delve into the attractions that are located west of the city center.

Partake in one of the best things to do in Porto, Portugal and discover the pretty parks and fabulous museums that are on the west side of the city. We recommend spending the morning at one (or more) of the urban parks and then enjoy the afternoon at one (or more) of the top Porto museums. 

To help you tailor the day to your specific interests and budget, we are highlighting a few different options for what to see and do. All of these Porto points of interest can be reached either on foot or by public transit. 

Porto Parks

The elegant Jardins do Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens) rank as one of the best parks in Porto. The planted gardens are especially beautiful in the spring and summer – and peacocks freely roam the grounds year-round! It is free to enter the park and explore the winding trials and savor the views.

The charming Porto Botanical Garden is another gorgeous green space. The grounds are free to enter, but a ticket is required to enter the intriguing Biodiversity Gallery. 

For those interested in exquisite architecture in a unique setting, check out the Agramonte Cemetery. While it may seem strange to include a graveyard as a city attraction, the cemeteries in Portugal are beautifully decorated with sculptures and mausoleums.

Travel Tip: After touring gardens in Porto, you have no doubt worked up an appetite. For an extravagant lunch, make reservations to dine at the Michelin Star Antiqvvm on the grounds of the Crystal Palace Gardens.

For something a little less formal (and a lot less expensive), go to the Mercado Bom Sucesso food hall. After lunch, walk around the Rotunda da Boavista park and admire the towering Monument to the Heroes of the Peninsular War.

Porto Museums

The National Museu Soares dos Reis Art Museum, which is housed in an 18th century palace, hosts an excellent permanent collection of paintings, ceramics and sculptures. 

Music lovers will not want to miss the Casa da Musica concert hall. A modern marvel of contemporary design, Casa da Musica offers guided tours of the unique space. 

Museu Romantico da Quinta da Macieirinha is a historic house featuring period pieces. The museum sits on the west end of the Crystal Palace Garden.

The famed Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art is so much more than just a museum. The complex includes multiple galleries, impressive architecture and sprawling gardens. 

Travel Tip : Each Porto museum on our list requires a ticket to enter. The Porto Card provides free or discounted entry to these museums (and many other attractions in Porto!). Get complete details and prices here . 

Petiscos Dinner

End your 4th day of Porto sightseeing with a lingering meal of drinks and food. Similar to tapas, Petiscos are small plates that are typically eaten while drinking and are intended to be shared. Bifana sandwiches, Alheira sausage and Octopus Salad are all common petiscos.

There are numerous restaurants and taverns in Porto that feature petiscos – from the hip Tapabento at the Sao Bento Train Station to the casual Gourmet da Emilia in Gaia. That said, we think Taxca is an ideal place for visitors to get an introduction to this particular style of eating in Porto.

5-Day Porto Itinerary

Those spending 5 days in Porto can embark on another day trip to see more Northern Portugal destinations. The best Porto day trips take visitors to stunning sights within an hour or two of the city – and we are highlighting some of the most popular options. 

Alternatively, complete your Porto in 5 Days Itinerary by visiting any sights that you may have missed on the previous days – or navigate to a neighborhood you have yet to discover (like Bonfim or Lapa).

Tours and Day Trips from Porto

Conclude your 5 Day Itinerary for Porto, Portugal by either traveling north to Braga or south to Aveiro. Visitors can plan their own perfect Porto day trip – or forgo the details and meet other travelers by joining an organized tour. We have suggestions for both!  

North to Braga, Portugal

Travel north of Porto to the historic and beautiful town of Braga. The Bom Jesus do Monte hilltop church – and it’s stunning staircase – is a top attraction. The Braga Old Town also boasts numerous opulently decorated churches, including the Braga Cathedral (which is the oldest in Portugal). Use our guide of the Top Things To Do in Braga to plan your time.

Alternatively, book an organized tour to two ancient cities: Braga and Guimaraes, Portugal. In addition to seeing the sights in Braga, participants also venture into the small town of Guimaraes to see the Medieval castle. Get more details!

South to Aveiro, Portugal

Travel south to Aveiro, the ‘Venice of Portugal, on a day trip from Porto using our Guide of Aveiro Things To Do . Take a cruise along the canals in a traditional Moliceiro boat and soak in the beauty of the colorful town. Rather go by tour? Learn more!

More Porto Day Trip Ideas

While we think Braga and Aveiro are the best Porto day trip options, fellow travelers might be more interested in visiting a national park or seeing a religious pilgrimage site. 

Peneda-Geres National Park

Take a trip northeast of Porto and immerse yourself in nature at the Peneda-Geres National Park. Hike mountain trails, swim in blue lagoons, visit small villages and get a taste of the regional food on an all-day outing. Find out more!

Fatima and Coimbra, Portugal

Make the pilgrimage to Fatima, one of the most important religious sites in Portugal where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in front of 3 children in 1917. Then, travel to Coimbra to visit one of Europe’s oldest universities. Book it now!

Traditional Portuguese Dinner

Be back in Porto for one last traditional meal of Portuguese food for dinner. Make advance reservations at Taberna Santo Antonio, where the rotating menu features in-season specialties. Alternatively, enjoy an epic family-style meal of roasted pork at Antunes. Bom Proveito! 

Travel Tips for your Porto Itinerary

OK, we know you’re ready to make your Porto travel plans – but we have a few important tips for your trip. Whether you are staying in Porto for just one day, spending a weekend in Porto or looking to visit Porto in 3 days or longer, these tips will help you plan an enjoyable vacation to Portugal.

When is the Best Time to Travel to Porto?

Choosing the best time to go to Porto depends on a few different factors – like length of stay, desired activities and overall Portugal travel budget. 

Summertime in Porto

Porto is busiest in the summer when the weather is hot and the long days are full of sunshine. June, July and August are ideal for swimming at the nearby beaches – however, the city is swarming with fellow tourists. Prices peak in the summertime, getting reservations will be difficult and touring the sights can test even the most patient of travelers. We avoid Porto in the summer.

Autumn and Spring in Porto

During autumn and spring Porto sees fewer visitors, which means hotel prices are lower and it’s easier to get into the top attractions. The weather can be damp and fickle, as Porto is actually one of Europe’s wettest cities, with October typically seeing the most rain. The ocean is also likely too cold for swimming at Porto beaches. 

Porto During Winter

Winters in Porto are mild for Europe, but still a bit wet. If you’re prepared, winter can be a great time to visit as prices are low and there is no problem touring attractions and getting into restaurants. Plus, Porto in December is lavishing decorated for the holidays, like many of the Best European Christmas Destinations .

How To Get to Porto, Portugal

Porto can be reached by plane, train, bus, boat or car. We’ve traveled to Porto by train from Lisbon and plane from London and Funchal and departed on cheap flights to Barcelona and Madrid . Our preference is to fly – we are JetSettingFools, after all – and when we need to purchase plane tickets, we start our search for the lowest fares on Skyscanner . But, first, read our tips for Getting the Best Flights for Cheap . 

Porto Airport

The modern Porto Airport, Francisco Sa Carneiro Aeroporto (OPO), is located north of the city center. Served by major European airlines and low-cost carriers, there are also direct flights from the US to Porto year-round. After landing in Porto you should use the Metro, Uber or pre-arranged private transport to get to your accommodations.

Getting Around Porto

If you can handle the hills, Porto is fairly easy to get around on foot. Studying a Porto Map – like this one – in advance will aid you in navigating the city. Additionally, there is a robust network of public transportation in Porto that includes buses and rail . 

Where To Stay in Porto, Portugal

There are numerous options when it comes to Porto accommodations. Guests can choose from luxurious Porto hotels, affordable apartments and bargain hostels.

On our first short visit to Porto, we stayed at the well-located Hotel da Bolsa in the Ribeira District. While the property could use a refurbishment, we loved being in the heart of Porto’s most popular tourist area and our upper-level room had a Douro River view!

Start your search for top hotels in Porto on Booking.com – but read our Best Hotels at Best Rates article first!

For our subsequent extended stays in Porto, we opted to use Airbnb . For longer visits, we usually choose to stay in apartments, as they offer more space and a kitchen. However, for 5 Days or less in Porto, we recommend booking a centrally located hotel.

What You Need For Your Trip to Portugal

Now onto our packing hacks for your trip to Porto. We share more packing advice – like why Packing Cubes are Essential along with our Ultimate Packing List – on our dedicated Packing Tips Page . Also, go ahead and grab your Free Packing Checklist !

Travel Shoes 

Our Porto Itinerary includes a lot of walking – it’s really the ideal way to see the city. Just be sure to pack a pair of comfortable travel shoes so you’re ready for the hills, stairs and cobblestones! I like to wear lightweight walking shoes, like these by Columbia – and Kris prefers these trail shoes by Merrell .

Appropriate Clothing to Pack for Porto

As we explained above, Porto experiences all four seasons and a fair amount of rain any time outside of summer. For the long, hot and sunny summer days, bring loose-fitting, breathable clothes – and a swimsuit if you plan to spend time at the beach in Porto. During winter, spring and especially autumn in Porto, it is advisable to bring a travel umbrella and packable raincoat . 

Best Travel Camera 

Porto is incredibly photogenic! We recommend capturing the stunning sights with a real travel camera rather than your phone. We travel with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens . It’s also a fantastic budget camera option for beginner photographers, as it comes with a bundle of accessories!

WiFi in Porto

Staying connected is important for things like looking up directions, ordering an Uber, checking restaurant reviews and making reservations. We use Pocket WiFi for Travel so that we can be connected the minute we land off that long flight .

With this GlocalMe Hotspot , you can connect up to ten devices at one time; making it perfect for families or groups of friends traveling together. You can either purchase SIM cards or buy eSIM data online in advance. Another great feature is that it doubles as a power bank for when your phone batteries need a boost!

Day Pack for your Trip to Porto

We highly recommend carrying a great day bag to organize and secure all of your everyday travel items . While we’re talking packing, get our advice on the Backpack Vs Suitcase debate!

Travel Insurance for Portugal

In addition to trip cancellations, travel insurance may cover lost luggage , unexpected illness or injury while abroad. Find out more about coverage and rates with World Nomads .

More Tips for your Trip to Portugal

The itinerary that we outline above provides a good starting point for planning the Porto segment of your Portugal trip. Many travelers, however, prefer to visit multiple Portugal destinations – like Lisbon, Madeira Island and the Azores. Our trip planning guides cover the top places to visit in Portugal!

Lisbon and Porto Itinerary

Travelers designing a Porto to Lisbon Itinerary can use our detailed 3-Days in Lisbon Guide for advice on what to see and do – and we highly recommend including a Day Trip To Sintra ! We provide more tips for Lisbon in these articles: 

• The Best Lisbon Viewpoints and Most Beautiful Lisbon Churches
• What To See in Belem, Portugal
• How To See Lisbon’s Cristo Rei Up Close
• Best Free Lisbon Things To Do

Choosing Between Porto or Lisbon

Do you need to choose between Lisbon or Porto? To be honest, it would be difficult for us to pick one city over the other. If at all possible, we would recommend including both in your Portugal Itinerary! For example, if you are planning a Week in Porto Itinerary, rather than spending all 7 days in Porto, consider splitting your time between Porto and Lisbon. 

Add Madeira for a Longer Trip to Portugal

Have more time to explore Portugal? Fantastic! How about adding on an island adventure to create the Ultimate Itinerary for Portugal ? It is simple enough with several direct, short flights from Porto to Madeira Island. Get started with our Best Things To Do in Funchal (including where to eat ) and then plan your complete Madeira Itinerary !

Start planning your trip to Portugal ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

23 Top Tourist Attractions in Porto

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Situated at the point where the Duoro River meets the Atlantic Ocean in Northern Portugal, Porto has been a mercantile city since its earliest days as a Roman outpost. This city perfectly blends old-world charm and modern sophistication with a rich history and stunning architecture that will captivate your senses.

Walking tours offers a great way to explore the city, as most of the major tourist attractions in Porto are located close to each other. As you explore Porto, you’ll be captivated by its historic center – a maze of winding medieval streets – colorful buildings, and charming plazas.

Map of Porto

Foodies can enjoy a fantastic gastronomic scene encompassing fresh seafood, creamy pastéis de nata (custard tarts), or the hearty francesinha sandwich, a local specialty. Porto’s most celebrated contribution to Portuguese culture is port wine, the nation’s top export. A list of things to do in Porto typically include trips to the port wine caves located just across the river at Vila Nova de Gaia.

But Porto is more than just its landmarks and food. It’s a captivating Portuguese city with a vibrant spirit where locals embrace life with warmth and friendliness. Whether exploring its bustling markets, traditional tascas (taverns), or walking along the river, the city will captivate your heart and ignite your sense of adventure.

23. Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

The Crystal Palace Gardens present a stunning panoramic city view on a hill overlooking the Douro River.

Initially designed during the 19th century, the gardens feature lush green lawns, colorful flower beds, and winding paths that lead to quaint fountains, statues, and ornamental gardens.

The gardens’ main attraction is the impressive Crystal Palace, a magnificent iron and glass structure inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, which serves as its centerpiece. Even though the original palace no longer stands, the gardens maintain their delightful charm, creating an ideal setting for gentle strolls, picnics and relaxing in nature.

The gardens host various cultural events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, and festivals, adding a refined touch to its delightful ambiance.

22. Sao Bento Railway Station

São Bento Railway Station is a beautiful and functional architectural masterpiece that combines history and art. It is located in the heart of the city and is known for its stunning azulejo tilework that covers the walls and tells stories of Portugal’s rich past.

The grand entrance hall of the station is breathtaking, with intricate blue and white tile panels that depict scenes from Portuguese life, battles, and transportation. These hand-painted tiles from the early 20th century create a captivating visual narrative that takes visitors back in time.

Aside from its artistic appeal, São Bento Railway Station is a busy transportation hub that connects Porto to various destinations across the country. Visitors can watch trains arrive and depart against the backdrop of the station’s magnificent interior.

21. Liberdade Square

Praça da Liberdade, or Liberdade Square in English, is a lively and historic public square.

Surrounded by beautiful buildings, many of which showcase stunning architecture and intricate designs, a monument dedicated to King Pedro IV stands in the center of the square.

Depicting a significant figure in the history of Portugal, the monument is decorated with statues and a towering column, adding a sense of regality to the square.

Liberdade Square is significant to the city’s history, representing its journey towards freedom and independence. It is a gateway to Porto’s rich cultural heritage and a meeting place where past and present intersect.

Today the square is a popular spot for people-watching, socializing, and outdoor events. Several cafés, restaurants, and shops also surround it.

20. World of Discoveries

Portugal enjoys a rich maritime history, which you can learn more about at the World of Discoveries Museum.

Located along the Douro River, this interactive museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the Age of Discoveries through life-sized replicas, multimedia exhibits, and interactive displays.

Step back in time and set sail on a Portuguese caravel while exploring distant lands and learning about the cultures encountered. The museum provides a comprehensive look into the voyages of iconic figures such as Prince Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan. At the same time, it showcases navigational techniques, trade routes, and technological advancements of the era.

Providing an engaging and hands-on experience for visitors, you can try steering a ship, learn how to tie maritime knots and sample exotic spices at a recreated market.

19. Parque da Cidade

Parque da Cidade, better known as City Park, is a large green oasis within the city.

It features lush lawns, shady groves, and winding pathways ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides. Its stunning ocean views also provide a serene backdrop, perfect for picnics or relaxing amidst the natural beauty.

While exploring the park, visitors should watch for the unique sculpture called ‘She Changes’. It’s a striking installation that reflects the changing tides and captures the essence of the park’s coastal location.

The park also accommodates several amenities and attractions, including sports facilities like jogging tracks, tennis courts and football fields. In addition, it also has a skate park, playgrounds for children, and a small lake where you can rent paddle boats.

18. Cruise Down the Douro River

Taking a cruise down the Douro River is an unforgettable experience that showcases the region’s natural beauty, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Gliding along the river, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of terraced vineyards, charming villages, and ancient castles atop hillsides.

Many cruises even offer the opportunity to visit traditional wine estates, where you can sample the famous port wine and learn about the centuries-old winemaking traditions of the region.

Whether you choose a short river cruise or a multi-day voyage, a journey down the Douro River provides a unique perspective on Porto and its surroundings. It offers a serene escape from sightseeing, allowing you to unwind, soak in the breathtaking landscapes and enjoy the experience of a scenic and romantic river journey.

17. Go to the beach at Foz do Douro

Foz do Douro is a perfect place to unwind, sunbathe and enjoy the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, the beach is famous for its broad sandy shoreline. It showcases spectacular views of the ocean, the river, and the iconic Arrábida Bridge in the distance.

Alongside the beach is a promenade with beachfront cafes, restaurants, and bars where you can indulge in delicious seafood dishes or sip refreshing drinks while enjoying the cool sea breeze. As the sun sets, the promenade becomes more lively, making it a romantic spot for an evening stroll.

Foz do Douro is also renowned for surfing, and bodyboarding if you’re feeling adventurous. The consistent waves and challenging breaks attract surfers of all levels.

16. Church of Santa Clara

Nestled near the city’s center, the Church of Santa Clara is an architectural and historical treasure worth visiting.

This stunning church, also known as Igreja de Santa Clara, features exquisite Baroque and Rococo elements that will captivate any visitor’s attention.

Originally built during the 15th century, the church underwent various renovations over the centuries, contributing to its grandeur. Its façade is adorned with intricate stonework and decorative details, while the interior boasts ornate altarpieces, gilded woodwork, and stunning frescoes that depict religious scenes.

One of the most remarkable features of the church is the tomb of Queen Saint Elizabeth, a revered figure in Portuguese history. The church also features stunning stained-glass windows that help create a serene atmosphere illuminated by the soft light that filters through it.

15. Capela das Almas

The Capela das Almas is a beautiful architectural wonder renowned for its exquisite facade adorned with intricate azulejo tiles.

A charming small chapel, its exterior is covered in blue and white tiles that depict the lives of various saints and religious figures. The tilework, crafted in the early 20th century, is a masterpiece of Portuguese artistry and adds a unique charm to the chapel.

Upon entering the chapel, you will discover a peaceful, intimate space adorned with religious iconography and gilded woodwork. The serene atmosphere is conducive to taking a moment to reflect.

Holding a special place in the hearts of local residents, the Capela das Almas symbolizes devotion and faith. It is particularly revered during the annual festival of São João when the chapel becomes a focal point for religious celebrations and processions.

14. FC Porto Museum

If you love soccer, one of the best things to do in Porto is to visit the FC Porto Museum.

One of Portugal’s most successful football clubs, the museum resides within the iconic Estádio do Dragão and showcases the history and achievements of the club.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a collection of memorabilia, trophies, and interactive exhibits that showcase the club’s rich heritage. You can also learn about the club’s founding, legendary players, and triumphs on the national and international stage.

The museum also provides immersive experiences that allow visitors to relive iconic moments through multimedia presentations, audiovisual displays, and interactive games. They include stepping into a player’s boots, testing your football skills, and even taking a virtual tour of the stadium, including the changing rooms.

13. Casa da Musica

When it comes to contemporary architecture, the Casa da Musica is a standout attraction. Designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, the new home for the National Orchestra of Porto opened in 2005 to great acclaim.

With its innovative design inside and out, the structure has already been adopted by the city as an iconic landmark. Concerts are held in the hall nearly every night of the year, with shows ranging from rock bands and solo artists to full symphony orchestras.

Guided tours of the facility are offered daily, and special packages include backstage passes and free samples of port wine.

12. Igreja do Carmo

The Igreja do Carmo is a stunning church with great historical and architectural value.

Dating back to the late 18th century, it boasts an impressive Baroque style that reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage of the time.

The church’s impressive façade is intricately adorned with carvings and decorative elements that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the time.

Visitors can admire stunning altarpieces, gilded woodwork, and beautifully painted ceilings that will take your breath away. Notably, its tiled façade, known as the ‘Wall of Souls’, depicts scenes from the lives of various saints and religious figures.

Adjacent to the church is the Carmo Churchyard. Tourists there can find a collection of ancient tombstones and elaborate mausoleums – a peaceful space offering a link to Porto’s past.

11. Mercado Bom Sucesso

Mercado Bom Sucesso is a lively marketplace in the Boavista district of Porto.

It has become a popular destination for food lovers who can enjoy a delightful culinary and cultural experience. The market showcases fresh produce, gourmet ingredients, and traditional Portuguese delicacies. Along with local fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, seafood, and pastries, you can also find international cuisines, including sushi, pizza, and vegan options.

Aside from the tempting food offerings, the Mercado Bom Sucesso is a lively space where you can mingle with locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. It regularly hosts cultural events, live music performances and art exhibitions, making it a dynamic and multifaceted destination with a lively and engaging atmosphere.

10. Cafe Majestic

The Café Majestic is a historical gem that takes visitors back to the elegant Belle Époque era.

Its Art Nouveau décor, complete with intricate woodwork, chandeliers, and plush seating, creates a gorgeous setting that transports you back in time.

Since opening in 1921, the café has been a popular meeting place for intellectuals, artists, and bohemians drawn to its sophisticated ambiance and ornate interiors.

It is also an excellent place to eat and presents a delightful menu featuring delectable pastries, sumptuous desserts, and specialty coffees. If you have a sweet tooth, you will be spoiled for choice with their selection. But we recommend indulging in their signature ‘Majestic cake’, which well and truly lives up to its name.

9. Serralves Museum

If you enjoy contemporary art, The Serralves Museum will not disappoint.

The museum resides within the beautiful grounds of Serralves Park and offers a captivating mix of art, architectural beauty, and nature.

Its modern and sleek building design is a work of art in itself, as it blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors can explore a diverse collection of contemporary art featuring works by renowned national and international artists.

From painting and sculpture to installation and multimedia art, the exhibits showcase a range of artistic expressions and thought-provoking creations.

In addition, the Serralves Museum hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and regular cultural events. Therefore, it is also a vibrant center for artistic and intellectual exchange in the city.

8. Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia

While technically its own city, Vila Nova de Gaia is situated just across the Douro from Porto and is woven into the city’s fabric both by a series of bridges as well as its shared history of port-wine making.

The most popular tourist attraction in Gaia are the Port Wine Cellars, warehouses where the famous Port wine is stored. The Cellars are placed in Ribeira de Gaia, an area of the city located in the bank of River Douro opposite Porto.

Ribeira de Gaia has also some excellent restaurants, particularly in Cais de Gaia. Even if you are not in visiting the cellars, you should visit Ribeira the Gaia in order to get some amazing views of Porto.

7. Porto Cathedral

The parents of Portugal’s first king, Dom Afonso Henriques, are credited with the construction of the 12th-century Sé do Porto, but the cathedral has actually been rebuilt twice over the centuries.

Offering a history of changing architectural styles, the reconstructions are now part of this famous structure’s appeal. From its Gothic rose window and cloister to the baroque chapel with its ornate silver altarpiece, the cathedral is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history, art and architecture.

A staircase ornamented with painted ceramic tile work leads to a second level where narrow windows offer impressive views.

6. Dom Luis Bridge

The Ponte de Dom Luis I is the most famous of the several bridges that span the Duoro River. Built in 1886, it was designed by Téophile Seyrig, an engineer who worked with Gustave Eiffel.

The massive iron bridge has both an upper and lower deck, both of which carried road traffic until 2003 when the top span was converted to accommodate a light rail system. A pedestrian walkway on the upper deck offers spectacular views as well as a direct walking route to the port wine lodges across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia.

5. Livraria Lello

Bibliophiles will be in their element at Livraria Lello.

A haven for book lovers, this store was founded in 1906 as a tribute to the beauty of literature. It features grandiose bookshelves, ornate carvings, and a magnificent stained-glass ceiling that casts a warm glow over the space. You’ll want to spend hours here!

Livraria Lello has always been associated with literary figures and intellectual discussions. Its legacy continues through its vast collection of books, ranging from classic literature to contemporary works. Visitors can explore the aisles and discover hidden gems and literary treasures that will transport them to another world.

The charm of this bookstore has even inspired writers like J.K. Rowling, who reportedly found inspiration for the Harry Potter series within its walls.

4. Clerigos Tower

The Clérigos Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Porto, if not Portugal.

Designed in the 18th century by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, the tower is part of the Clérigos Church and stands at 76 meters. It is a must-visit destination for those who enjoy exceptional panoramic views.

The tower features intricate Baroque details and a beautiful spiral staircase that leads to the top, making it a masterpiece of architecture. Visitors can climb its 240 steps, where they’ll take in breathtaking views of Porto’s historical center, the Douro River and the surrounding areas on reaching the top.

In addition to the tower, a small museum provides visitors with insights into the its construction and historical significance. It is worth popping in to find out more about the magnificent structure.

3. Sao Francisco Church

The 14th-century Igreja de Sao Francisco is the most prominent example of Gothic architecture in Porto.

Originally part of the St. Francis Convent built in the 13th century, the church is the only structure that survived a fire in 1842. A steep climb from the riverside leads visitors to the massive stone façade, which is ornamented by a large rosette window.

The interior of the church was given a baroque makeover in the 18th century when almost all of the aisles, pillars and chapels were covered with lavishly ornamented gilded carvings featuring cherubs, flowers and animals.

2. Palácio da Bolsa

Located adjacent to the Sao Francisco Church, the Palácio da Bolsa is a massive Neoclassic structure constructed on the site of the former St. Francis Convent. Funded by the Porto’s commercial association, the palace was built as a stock exchange and was designed to impress Europe’s economic leaders.

Several architects worked on the building during its nearly 70-year construction period. Designed in a Moorish style by Gustavo Adolfo Gonçalves e Sousa, the Arab Room is a highlight for any tour of the palace. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Porto, the striking space is still used as a reception hall for visiting dignitaries today.

Many travelers to Porto begin their visit in the Ribeira, the medieval historic district located near the Duoro River.

At the Praça da Ribeira, the narrow cobblestone streets spill out onto a scenic plaza where locals and tourists relax in the sun and enjoy views of the estuary. With its many seafood restaurants and taverns, the Ribeira Pier is a popular gathering spot too.

It’s also a departure point for cruises on the river and for boat rides to the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. For those traveling by foot or car, the Cais da Ribeira offers easy access to Dom Luis Bridge as well.

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Reader interactions.

November 1, 2015 at 3:30 pm

Just want to warn you about an error on this article. This is a very common mistake even among Porto inhabitants: The correct name of the bridge is “Ponte Luis I” (Luis I Bridge) and not Ponte Dom Luís I. It has no “Dom” on purpose. The king didn’t want the people to build him a bridge. He preferred a church/cathedral. For that reason he didn’t came to the opening of it. In retaliation the people decided to erase the “Dom” from its name. It was the most offensive thing they could do against the king for his attitude on ignoring the bridge (gift). Last point: It’s impossible to understand how the nightlife in Porto is not considered an attraction itself. It’s amazing to see thousands of people walking around the hundreads of bars, pubs, restaurants, etc. Keep up the good work

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Porto Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 8, 2024

While Porto lacks the iconic “wow!” factor of Lisbon , I still think it’s a beautiful riverside city filled with lots of good food, plentiful wine, and cozy riverfront cafes.

Moreover, this is the best place to start your trips to the nearby Douro Valley, where you can explore and tour the region’s famous port vineyards. It’s also one of the main launching grounds for the Camino Portugues (a multi-day hike to Santiago de Compostela in Spain), making it a popular hub for hikers and pilgrims alike.

This travel guide to Porto will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your visit here!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Porto

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Porto

1. Wander the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

This is a free 24-acre botanical garden in the center of Porto. The gardens were designed in the late 1800s and include an avenue of lime trees, walking paths along the river, and a space for concerts and exhibitions. There are also sculptures, fountains, and olive trees scattered around as well. It’s one of the best places in the city to relax, people-watch, and take in the view of the river.

2. Cruise the Douro River

For a relaxing break from the city, take a boat trip up the Douro River. The river stretches some 897 kilometers (557 miles) into Spain, though tours focus almost exclusively on the section around Porto where the city’s six famous bridges can be seen. During an hour-long cruise, you’ll pass under the city’s six massive bridges that span the river while learning a bit about the history of the city. Living Tours offers a scenic hour-long cruise for just 15 EUR.

3. Take a tour of the Douro Valley

Port, a sweet dessert wine, hails from this region, and the mountainous Douro Valley is filled with small family-owned wineries. These wineries are all high up in the hills, offering jaw-dropping views as you sip your wine. If you don’t have your own vehicle, full-day wine tours usually last around 8-10 hours and include multiple stops, lunch, and usually a river cruise as well. Get Your Guide runs a popular full-day tour for 95 EUR that visits two wine estates and includes lunch and a cruise.

4. Admire the city’s azulejo art

Introduced by the Moors (Muslims from North Africa who conquered parts of Europe), this traditional ceramic tilework dates to the 13th century. The artwork usually tells a story, often about the history or daily lives of the people of Porto. Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, Capela das Almas, and the port Cathedral are some of the best places to see this traditional art up close.

5. Visit Livraria Lello

Other things to see and do in porto, 1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Porto Walkers runs daily free tours that cover all the highlights. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Visit the Stock Exchange Palace

Known as the Palácio da Bolsa, this palace was built in 1842, taking over three decades to complete. The building and its cathedral were designed in the Neoclassical style and are both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Monument. The palace was originally intended to showcase Portugal’s economic might. The interior is ornate and entirely covered from floor to ceiling with paintings, sculptures, and architectural decoration. You’ll find lots of commemorations of Prince Henry the Navigator here as well (he was a 15th-century Portuguese figure central in the establishment of the country’s empire). Admission is 10 EUR.

3. Daytrip to Povoa de Varzim

The city of Povoa de Varzim is a small resort town 30 kilometers (18 miles) north of Porto. It has a wide, sandy stretch of beach where the rich locals used to sunbathe in the 19th century. The tiny town’s Praça do Almada central square has some colorful architecture, including the Neoclassical town hall from 1791. There’s not a ton to do here, but it makes for a nice place to stroll and escape the city. The one-hour bus ride from Porto costs less than 5 EUR.

4. Listen to live music at Casa da Música

This state-of-the-art concert hall is the best place in the city to see live music and theater. Built in 1999 to commemorate Porto’s designation as a European Capital of Culture, performances are held here regularly. Though most of them are in Portuguese, there are a lot of classical and jazz performances too. Ticket prices vary but check the website to see what is available during your visit as there are tons of free concerts and events.

5. Shop at Mercado do Bolhão

Bolhão Market is an eclectic local market full of fresh produce, meats, fish, bread, flowers, and local handicrafts. The market, housed in an old Neoclassical building, has been around since 1914 and is popular with locals and tourists alike. You can find pretty much everything here. If you’re cooking your own meals, it’s a cheap place to buy groceries. (Temporarily closed for renovations).

6. Watch a football match

Like the rest of Europe, the Portuguese love football (soccer). If you’re a fan of the sport, pay a visit to Dragão Stadium to take in a football match. The stadium holds over 50,000 people and FC Porto’s fans are some of the most passionate in Europe. They have huge rivalries with other Portuguese teams, so matches are always exciting and energetic. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, it’s an amazing event to experience while you’re here.

7. Get lost in Ribeira

Porto’s old town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, is full of narrow and winding medieval streets, delightful cafés, and historic architecture. Have lunch, enjoy some port, and try to get purposefully lost in the meandering alleys. It’s located along the water opposite Vila Nova de Gaia (a district in Porto) and is my favorite part of the city. Don’t miss stopping by the Casa do Infante, which is said to be the house where Prince Henry the Navigator was born in 1394 (admission is 2.20 EUR).

8. See São Francisco Church

Built in the 15th century, the Gothic Church of Saint Francis is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike its drab exterior, the interior is lavishly designed in a Baroque style. The church took around 50 years to build and almost every inch is covered in gold and ornately decorated (over 500 pounds of gold dust was used to cover everything). Below the church are catacombs and an ossuary as well. Be sure to dress appropriately as this is a place of worship. Admission is 7.50 EUR.

9. Admire Porto’s vibrant street art

Many of Porto’s buildings are beautifully decorated with street art and murals. Stroll down Rua de Miguel Bombarda, Rue da Madeira, and Escadas do Codecal (the stairs leading down to the Duoro riverfront under Luis I Bridge), and you’ll see some of the city’s coolest public art. If you want to learn more, book a street art tour . It’s the best way to see the main works and learn more about the street art scene in Porto.

10. Climb up the Clérigos Tower

Built between 1754 and 1763, this Baroque-style tower was home to the Brotherhood of the Clerigos, a 17th-century religious order. At 75 meters tall (and with 225 steps) it offers some of the best views of the city. Declared a National Monument in 1910, admission is 6 EUR and includes access to the museum, which showcases the cultural and religious history of Porto during the 18th century.

11. Visit the Soares dos Reis National Museum

This museum is home to a permanent collection of Portuguese paintings, ceramics, furniture, metalwork, and sculptures. Founded in 1833, it was the first museum in the country that focused on Portuguese art. One of the primary exhibitions is by Portuguese sculptor António Soares dos Reis, after whom the museum is named. Admission is 5 EUR.

12. Hike up to the Virtudes Garden at sunset

This vertical garden is located behind the Palace of Justice. Composed of several raised platforms, the park offers a spectacular view of the Douro River and Vila Nova de Gaia district. After a long day of touring the city, this garden is the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks, people-watch, and take in the sunset over the river. It can get busy though so arrive early. Admission is free.

13. Take a day trip to Guimarães

Located 45 minutes from Porto, this charming city was not only the first capital of Portugal, but it’s also where the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born around 1111 CE. The city has a beautifully preserved historic center that dates to the 12th century. Some notable sights to check out Guimarães Castle, the city’s old quarter, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. You can visit as part of a day trip or stay overnight to escape the busyness of Porto. You can take the bus or train for under 5 EUR each way.

  For more information on other cities in Portugal, check out these guides:

• Lagos Travel Guide
• Lisbon Travel Guide

Porto Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for around 8-10 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Two-star budget hotels near the city center start around 40-65 EUR per night. Some include free breakfast and all have free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is a budget-friendly option in Porto with private rooms starting from 30 EUR per night (though they average double that if you don’t book early). Entire homes/apartments cost at least 60 EUR per night, though expect to pay closer to 100 EUR.

Food – Fish and seafood form the backbone of Portuguese cuisine (Portugal eats the most seafood per capita in Europe). Cod, sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), sea bass, and shellfish are some of the most common staples. Other popular dishes include cozido à portuguesa (boiled stew), peixinhos da horta (breaded and fried vegetables), and cured ham. Be sure to also try the prego (beef sandwich) or the bifana (pork sandwich). You can find them at local cafes for around 5 EUR.

Another local favorite is francesinha . It’s a sandwich typically made with bread, ham, linguica (Portuguese sausage), and steak, with everything covered with melted cheese and a rich tomato sauce. A fried egg is placed on top of the sandwich and it’s accompanied by fries (that you dip in the sauce). It’s incredibly heavy and filling (and delicious) and should be tried at least once. Expect to pay around 9-14 EUR. For one of the best in the city, visit Bufete Fase’s.

For a cheap meal at a local café or restaurant, expect to pay between 8-10 EUR. Small baked goods and snacks cost under 5 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 7 EUR for a combo meal. For something more mid-range, like a three-course meal with table service and a drink, expect to pay at least 15-20 EUR.

Many restaurants offer a “Prato do Dia” (dish of the day) for around 8-11 EUR. These are usually quite filling and consist of 2-3 courses.

A beer costs 2-3 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is around 2 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 35-45 EUR. This covers basic staples like pasta, vegetables, rice, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Porto Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Porto for around 45 EUR per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm room, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like the gardens and free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of 110 EUR per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like a river cruise or a wine tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 230 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do as many tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Porto Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Porto is a cheap city in an affordable country so it’s hard to spend a huge amount unless you are splashing out at a lot of expensive dinners. Nevertheless, here are some ways to save money in Porto:

• Pick up a Porto Card – The Porto Card provides free access to around a dozen museums, 50% discounts on 14 other attractions, free public transportation, and discounts to local restaurants. The card is 13 EUR for a one-day pass, 20 EUR for a two-day pass, 25 EUR for a three-day pass, and 33 EUR for a four-day pass. If you plan on seeing a lot, get this card.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to understand more about the history, architecture, and people of Porto then take a free walking tour. They last a couple of hours and are a great introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Get the Andante Ticket – For unlimited rides on the bus and metro pick up an Andante ticket. It has 24-hour and 72-hour options and tickets cost 7 EUR and 15 EUR respectively.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on accommodation in Porto. By staying with a local you’ll not only save money but you’ll get to spend time with someone who can show you the city’s hidden gems and share their insider tips. Just make sure to send your requests early as there are not a ton of hosts here.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis add up in Porto, often adding fees for luggage and airport pickups. Simply use the metro or bus system to get where you need to go. The taxis add up fast!
• Say “no” to bread – When eating out, a selection of bread and olives may be brought to your table before your meal. These aren’t free, so politely decline the offer if you’re not interested.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Porto

Porto has a lot of budget-friendly hostels that are comfortable, social, and clean. The hostel scene here is really good. Here are my top places to stay in Porto:

• Onefam Ribeira
• Rivoli Cinema Hostel
• Gallery Hostel
• Pilot Design Hostel & Bar
• Nice Way Porto

How to Get Around Porto

The metro is composed of six lines and 81 stations. It operates from 6am-1am and tickets are 1.20 EUR.

The Andante Card is a rechargeable card that can be refilled in metro stations, newspaper shops, and select cafes. Once you tap your card, you’ll get one hour of access to Porto’s entire public transportation system.

The Andante Card, along with the Porto Card, also offers an unlimited ride option. The Andante card offers costs 7 EUR for the 24-hour pass and 15 EUR for the 72-hour pass. A one-day Porto Card including transportation costs 13 EUR, while a three-day card costs 25 EUR.

Taxis – Taxis in Porto are safe though expensive. Prices start at 3.25 EUR and increase 0.25 EUR per kilometer. Most drivers speak English but showing them the address on your smartphone will help.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Porto but it’s not much cheaper than the taxis. Bolt and FreeNow are two other ridesharing apps that are usually cheaper than Uber, but I’d still skip ridesharing altogether if you’re on a tight budget. Public transportation is cheap.

Bike rental – Porto is relatively flat so riding a bike is an easy and fun way to see the city. Bike rentals cost around 15-22 EUR per day.

When to Go to Porto

Peak season in Porto is during the summer months of June-August. Temperatures hover around 22-25°C (73-77°F) and the overall atmosphere during this time is lively. There are lots of places to swim or relax on the beach so it’s still worth visiting during peak season even if the city is a bit busier. Since Porto is in the north and on the coast, you can expect temperatures to not be as warm as in the south, where they can reach 33°C (92°F). Since this is the busiest time to visit, expect prices to be slightly higher.

Personally, if you’re on a budget, I think the best time to visit Porto is the shoulder season (April-May and September-October). Temperatures range from 11-20°C (53-68°F) so it’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It may be a bit rainy, but you can still enjoy the city without much inconvenience.

Winter lasts from November to February. It gets cold, and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary but linger around 13°C (57°F). It’s still warmer than much of Europe, so if you’re on the continent and are looking to avoid the worst of the weather, head to Porto. Otherwise, save your visit for the summer or shoulder season.

How to Stay Safe in Porto

Porto is very pretty safe for travelers to visit. Violent attacks here are uncommon and petty crime is rare. Pickpocketing is the most common crime (though it’s still quite rare). Be aware of your surroundings when you’re in markets, on busy streets, and when using public transportation. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach and you should be fine.

Additionally, young backpackers here are often approached and offered drugs as Portugal has a relatively lax approach to illegal narcotics (drugs are decriminalized here). But, while drugs are decriminalized, that doesn’t mean you’re legally allowed to do them. Always decline any drug offers politely but firmly and continue on your way.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the city but read this article on common travel scams to avoid .

The emergency number in Porto is 112.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Porto Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Porto Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Portugal and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Lagos, Portugal

The Best Walking Tours in Lisbon

Where to Stay in Lisbon: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 9 Best Hostels in Lisbon

When Three Days Is Not Enough Time

Lisbon: Even Better the Second Time

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Porto-North-Portugal.com

The best independent guide to Porto

Home - Top 10 - Where to stay? - 2 days - 1 Week - Day trips - Airport to Porto - Beaches - 1-day tour - Braga - Aveiro

Porto; the best sights, attractions and things to see and do in 2024

Porto is an outstanding tourist destination, which effortlessly combines history and culture, in a progressive and welcoming city.

There is a lot to see and do within Porto, and it takes two full days of sightseeing to discover the entire city. This makes Porto ideal for a city break, or as part of a longer tour of Portugal.

This article will provide a guide to the top 10 attractions and activities in Porto, which can't be missed during your visit. Related articles: Porto Introduction – Walking tour of Porto – Porto day trips

The best sights and activities in Porto

Top 10 attractions and monuments in Porto 1. The Ponte Luís I bridge 2. The Igreja de São Francisco church 3. The Serralves contemporary art museum 4. The Livraria Lello bookshop 5. The Torre dos Clérigos tower and viewpoint 6. The Igreja do Carmo church 7. The Majestic Café coffee shop 8. The São Bento train station 9. The Palácio da Bolsa 10. The Half-Rabbit urban art

Top 10 activities, experiences and things to do 1. Port tasting and cellar tours 2. A cruise along the Douro River 3. Eating a Francesinha 4. An evening in the Ribeira district 5. The tram ride to the Foz district 6. Shopping at the Mercado do Bolhão 7. Estádio do Dragão stadium tour 8. Beach time at Matosinhos beach 9. Dining in the Bom Sucesso market 10. The nightlife along the Galerias de Paris

The interactive map below displays the location of the top 10 sights and top 10 activities; the green tags mark the top sights, and the yellow tags are for the top 10 activities.

Note: This article does not consider the region that surrounds Porto, for a guide to the best day trips from Porto, please read this guide (Porto day trips).

No.1 Sight of Porto – The Ponte Luís I bridge

The Ponte Luís I is the majestic iron bridge that spans the Douro River, and connects Porto to the north with Vila Nova de Gaia on the southern side.

This iconic bridge is split-levels, and from the top deck (which carries the metro) is one of the finest viewpoints of Porto. Insight: The bridge is named after king Luís I, but unlike many other monuments named after Portuguese royalty the “Dom” (King) is not included, this is a snub at the king who did not attend the inauguration organised for him in 1887.

The Luis I bridge is the icon of Porto

No. 1 activity of Porto – Port tasting and cellar tours

Porto is famed for Port wine, which is matured in vast cellars that line the banks of Vila Nova de Gaia.

To be classified as Port, the grapes must be grown in the Douro Valley and then aged in Vila Nova de Gaia. This means that all of the major Port producers (Sandeman, Cálem, Croft, Ferreira, Offley and Ramos Pinto) have cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and are within a relatively compact area.

Each Port producer provides informative tours of their cellars and is often combined with a Port tasting session. With over ten different Port cellars to visit, you are guaranteed to leave Porto as Port Connoisseur! Advice: The tours of the cellars are at set times and in specific languages. It is always advisable to pre-book tickets for popular times, or at least know the times of the appropriate language tours. Related links: Cálem tour and tasting tickets

Port tasting at the end of a tour!

No.2 Sight– The Igreja de São Francisco church

The gothic Igreja de São Francisco contains one of Portugal’s most extravagantly decorated church interiors. Every possible surface is adorned with elaborate wood carvings and lavished with gold leaf; there is so much gold paint, that it has been estimated to be more than 100kg of gold!

A highlight among the many Baroque wood carvings is the Árvore de Jesse (Tree of Jesse), which depicts the family tree of Jesus. The 13th-century church was originally part of a monastery complex, but the cloisters were destroyed by fire during the 1832 Siege of Porto.

The Gothic Igreja de São Francisco church with the classic tram

No.2 activity - A cruise along the Douro River

Porto is a city that was established and flourished based on its proximity to the mighty Douro River, and there is no better method to view the city than from the river.

There are two types of cruises; boat tours of the city or full-day excursions to the Douro Valley. The city cruises pass beneath the six bridges of Porto and visit the mouth of the Douro River. The full-day cruises head to the stunning scenery of the Alto Douro, with its terraced vineyards and scenic riverside towns. Related articles: The Douro Valley

Elegant river cruisers travel along the Douro River

We have worked with Getyourguide.com for the previous six years, and some of their best Douro River tours include:

No.3 Sight - The Fundação Serralves and contemporary art museum

Contemporary art is a divisive subject; to some, it is thought-provoking and inspirational, while for others, it is abstract nonsense.

The Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves attempts to bridge this divide, with an outstanding collection of exhibits, along with beautiful grounds and the wonderful art-deco Casa de Serralves villa.

The Fundação Serralves has a peaceful and tranquil setting, and is a highly recommended location to escape the hecticness of central Porto. Related links: Tickets for the Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves

The art-deco Casa de Serralves villa with the grounds of the Fundação Serralves complex

No.3 activity - Eating a Francesinha

The most famous meal of Porto is a Francesinha, a variation of the French Croque Monsieur, and was introduced to Porto during the 1950s.

The Francesinha combines bread, fried steak, sausage, bacon, a rich tomato sauce and with a side of chips. It's filling, delicious and ideal after a long day of sightseeing.

There are many variations of Francesinha, but they are all filling!

No.4 Sight - The Livraria Lello bookshop

The Livraria Lello is regarded as the most beautiful bookshop in the world and was also an inspiration for the Harry Potter series of books.

It was here that J K Rowling penned the initial chapters of the series and the bookshop's staircase was the inspiration for the grand staircase in Hogwarts.

The Livraria Lello is a beautiful store lined with handcrafted wooden panels, a stained glassed roof and a dramatic stairwell connecting the two levels.

The only issue is that its popularity means that it is always crowded with tourists.

The Livraria Lello Bookshop, just expect it to be much more crowded!

No.4 activity - An evening in the Ribeira district

The Ribeira is the oldest district of Porto and is a warren of narrow streets and colourful houses that line the banks of the Douro River. This is a characterful area of Porto with numerous family-run shops, traditional restaurants and trendy bars.

In the evenings, there is no better location to be than the Ribeira; sipping a glass of Port, with views over the Douro River and Luís I bridge, and surrounded by social atmosphere.

The Ribeira district stands under the shadow of the Ponte Luís I bridge

No.5 sight – The Torre dos Clérigos

The 18th century Igreja dos Clérigos is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Porto and inside is a unique oval-shaped nave.

Attached to the church is a 75m high bell tower (the Torre dos Clérigos), which from its construction in 1763 to the late 19th-century was the tallest building in Portugal. There are 240 steps to reach the top of the tower, but the view over central Porto is worth the climb. Related guide: The Torre dos Clérigos

The Torre dos Clérigos is still the tallest building in the historic centre of Porto

No.5 activity - The tram ride to the Foz district

The Linha 1 is the scenic tram route that connects the Ribeira district to the Foz district, and follows the Douro River downstream.

Trundling slowly along the route, are delightful trams that date from the 1930s. Inside are many original features, such as polished wood seats, brass dials and even a bell to ask the driver to halt.

If you have two or more days in Porto, you should certainly include the Foz district. It sits at the mouth of the Douro River, and offers pretty riverside walks, sandy beaches and a relaxing atmosphere. Related article: Porto tram guide

The classic tram of the Linha 1 route

No.6 sight - The Igreja do Carmo church

The Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas are two beautiful baroque churches, but most visitors come to view the stunning tiled exterior wall on the Igreja do Carmo.

This wonderful artwork depicts the foundation of the Carmelite Order on Mount Carmel and was painted using Azulejos tiles.

Curiosity: Between the two churches is Portugal's narrowest house (less than 1 m wide), which separated the male monastery at the Igreja do Carmo and the women's convent in the Igreja dos Carmelitas.

No.6 activity - Shopping at the Mercado do Bolhão

The Mercado do Bolhão is the traditional market of Porto and is the location to experience typical Portuguese daily life.

This bustling market is a joy to wander, with its stalls of freshly grown produce (fruit, veg and meats), local handicrafts and souvenirs stalls.

The market is housed in a classical wrought-iron building

No.7 sight – The Majestic Café coffee shop

The Majestic Café is one of Porto's original Art Nouveau styled cafes. The café, with its original features and hectic atmosphere, is bursting with character, and a great location for a mid-afternoon coffee and delicious Portuguese pastry.

The Rua de Santa Catarina, on which the Majestic Café is situated, is at the heart of Porto's shopping district and is a pleasant area to browse shops.

The Art Nouveau styled Majestic Café, was inspired by Parisian cafés

No.7 activity - Estádio do Dragão stadium tour

Porto’s passion is football, and Porto FC is one of Europe’s top 25 clubs, who routinely win the Portuguese football league.

Their stadium is the modern Estádio do Dragão, and a tour of the stadium and museum is a fantastic

No.8 sight – The São Bento train station

The main train station of central Porto is a tourist attraction in itself, due to the beautiful Azulejos tiles images that adorn the waiting hall.

The traditional blue and white tiles depict important events in Portugal's history while the multicoloured tiles display scenes of rural life. The two styles of tiles represent the transition of Portugal from a monarchy to republic in 1910, with the blue tiles painted before and the coloured after.

The azulejos tile paintings in São Bento Train Station

No.8 activity – Relaxing on Matosinhos beach

Surrounding Porto is the stunning Costa Verde coastline, with its golden sand beaches, rugged scenery and freezing sea waters.

The closest large sandy beach is at Matosinhos, which is just a short metro ride from the centre of Porto. This beach is popular with the residents of Porto who flock here during the summer, but it overlooks the ferry terminal so is not the most idyllic settings.

If you are planning a beach day, you may wish to travel a bit further by train to Vila do Conde, Espinho, Miramar or Povoa de Varzim, for much more beautiful beaches. Related articles: Matosinhos guide - Porto beach guide

Matosinhos beach is always popular, but unfortunately, it overlooks a busy harbour

No.9 sight – The Palácio da Bolsa

The Neoclassical Palácio da Bolsa was the stock exchange of Porto and represented the financial importance of the city during the 19th century.

Inside the stately building, is the exquisitely decorated Arab Room, the grand Hall of Nations and an impressive central courtyard. Tours must be booked to visit the interior of the Palácio da Bolsa, and are highly recommended.

No.9 activity - Dining in the Bom Sucesso market

The Mercado Bom Sucesso is a 1940s covered market which recently reinvented itself as a trendy food market and dining venue.

Within the dining area are numerous unique food stalls, and a communal seating area, which is a wonderful place to meet up and socialise.

Along with the permanent food stalls, there are cocktail bars and mini-pop-up shops, including jewellery and clothing. The whole building has an artsy retro vibe and is a cool place to hang out.

No.10 sight – The Half-Rabbit

The Half-Rabbit is a distinctive piece of urban art hidden down a side street in Vila Nova de Gaia.

This colourful artwork was constructed from discarded waste and was created by the celebrated urban artist Bordallo II.

The art installation is known as the Half-Rabbit as one side is painted with vivid colours while the other is the unaltered colour of the waste materials.

Both sides of the Half Rabbit are only seen if you look at the corner of the building

No.10 activity - Party late into the night at Galerias de Paris

The Galerias de Paris is the main nightlife street of Porto, close to the university and filled with many trendy bars. At night there is always a lively atmosphere here, especially at the weekends when the socialising spills on the streets.

Unique bars to definitely include in your night are, the Casa do Livro Bar, a former bookshop, and the Galeria de Paris Bar, converted from a fabric shop and retains many of the original features. Insight: Porto nightlife starts very late and doesn't get going at the weekends until at least 11pm

Our most popular guides to Porto and northern Portugal

Home page and introduction to Porto

Top 10 Porto

What are the top 10 sights and activities in Porto?

Where to stay?

What is the best district in Porto to be based in for your holiday?

When to visit?

When best to visit Porto and weather guide

Cost of trip

How much would a trip to Porto cost?

1 week holiday

Discover the entire Porto region in 1 week

48 hours in Porto

Itinerary for two fully packed days in Porto

Walking tour

You have just 1 day to see Porto? Then follow our suggested tour

Porto's beaches

Porto is on a coastline of glorious beaches

Porto day trips

Porto's day trips; where to go? which order?

Port Cellars

Which Port cellar tour and tasting should you visit?

The Foz District

Pretty district situated at the mouth of the Douro River

Stunning scenery, charming villages and relaxing boat tours

A vibrant city, regarded as the religious centre of Portugal

Known as the birthplace of Portugal and steeped in history

Canals, colourful fishing boats and a rich history

Airport to Porto

How to travel from Porto airport to the city centre

Lively beach resort, offering the best beaches close to Porto

Ponte de Lima

Ancient crossing point of the Lima River

Viana do Castelo

A city that exemplifies all of the finest aspects of the Minho region

Douro by car

Leave the tourists behind and discover the true allure of the Douro

Porto's Trams

The charming trams of Porto that cross the city

Liberal students and ancient university traditions create a fascinating city

A complete list of all of our Porto and North Portugal guides

Getting Started

• Porto Home Page
• When to visit Porto?
• 1 Week Porto
• Porto in 3 Days
• Porto in 2 Days

Porto Beaches

• Porto Beach Guide
• Vila do Conde Intro
• Povoa de Varzim Intro
• Senhor da Pedra beach
• Aguda beach
• Espinho beach
• Introduction
• Day trip to Ponte de Lima
• Aveiro Introduction
• Porto to Aveiro

Other guides

• How long to stay in Porto?
• Porto Language
• Serra da Estrela by car
• Is it safe to visit Porto?
• Porto Airport
• Chaves Portugal

Viana Do Castelo

• Day trip to Viana
• Santuario de Santa Luzia
• Day trip to Valenca

Porto Guides

• Porto Day Trips
• Walking tour of Porto
• Airport to Porto city
• Porto's trams
• Torre dos Clérigos
• Linha 1 tram route
• Porto to Lisbon
• Porto to the Algarve
• Porto to Coimbra
• Lisbon to Porto Tour
• The Douro by car
• Linha do Douro train ride
• Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint

Porto or...

• Porto or Barcelona
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• Porto or Madrid
• Porto or Milan
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Matosinhos intro Matosinhos beach

• Guimarães Introduction
• Day Trip to Guimarães
• Porto to Guimarães
• Guimarães or Braga?
• Braga Introduction
• Porto to Braga
• Day trip to Braga

Portugal Guides

Where to go in Portugal? Where to Live in Portugal Top 10 Portugal 1 week in Portugal Top 10 beaches

Central Portugal

• Sintra introduction
• Sights of Sintra
• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Parque da Pena
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
• Evora sights
• Evora day trip
• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
• Sesimbra sightseeing
• Sesimbra beaches
• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
• Obidos day trip
• Ericeira introduction
• Lisbon to Ericeira
• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
• Peninsula de Troia
• Berlengas Islands

Lisbon Guides

• Lisbon introduction
• Lisbon top 10
• Secret Lisbon
• Lisbon beach guide
• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• 3 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 5 Days
• 1 Week Lisbon
• Lisbon day trips
• Lisbon shopping
• Lisbon Parks
• Lisbon on a wet day
• Museums and galleries
• Alfama District
• Baixa District
• Belem District
• Parque Nações
• Alcântara District
• Graça District
• Cais do Sodre
• Lisbon airport
• Lisbon Metro
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Elevador Santa Justa
• Torre de Belem
• Elevador da Bica
• Elevador do Lavra
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• Praça do Comercio
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Lisbon Viewpoints
• Miradouro da Graça
• Sao Pedro de alcantara
• Senhora do Monte
• Lisbon to Belem transport
• Costa da Caparica Portugal
• Lisbon at Christmas
• Santos Populares
• Lisbon for Families
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• Cristo Rei Christ
• Lisbon Markets
• Ponte 25 de Abril
• Príncipe Real
• Free Lisbon
• Is Lisbon Walkable
• Lisbon Budget
• Driving in Lisbon
• From the airport
• To Cristo Rei
• Lisbon to Porto
• Lisbon tram guide
• Lisbon Ferrys

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
• Albufeira activities
• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
• Albufeira boat trips
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Percurso dos Sete Vales hike
• Sights and activities
• Faro beaches
• Funchal introduction
• Lagos guide
• Lagos beaches
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
• Tavira guide
• Tavira sights
• Tavira Beaches
• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

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20 Best Porto Tours: From Hidden Gems to Famous Spots

LOOKING FOR THE BEST TOURS IN PORTO? 

If you’re looking for the best Porto tours for your visit to the northern Portuguese city, you’ve come to the right place, as this article outlines the 20 best Porto tours.

❤️ Why do I love Porto? Let me count the ways.

Porto is a city where history comes alive in its winding streets and impressive buildings, telling stories from years gone by. It’s a food lover’s paradise , famous for its Francesinha sandwich and Port wine. The city’s charm shines in its stunning river views and picturesque, colorful houses.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Porto tour is this All-Inclusive Private Douro Valley Tour , with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Honestly, I might even have a slight preference for Porto over Lisbon — but that’s just me. So, how do you experience everything that this marvelous city has to offer? Why not take a tour?

These Porto experiences include all the highlights — from Porto city tours, which show you the stunning architecture and dive into the culture and history of the centuries-old city, to the 🍷 best wine tour Porto has to offer, where you can sample port wine, green wine , and the famous Douro Valley reds. 

Ready to discover your favorite Porto tour? Let’s go.

Top 3 Picks: Best Porto Tours

Private Porto City Tour

→ customize your itinerary → hotel pickup and drop-off

Private TukTuk Tour All Around Porto

→ private, customizable experience → knowledgeable and accommodating guide

Douro Valley Private Tour

→ wine tasting + lunch →  boat trip in the Douro River

15 Best Porto Tours to Explore

1. private porto city tour .

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 📌 BOOK NOW  

See Porto up close and personal on this fully customizable private half day tour of the city .

While your guide will give you recommendations based on your interests , you won’t want to miss the tour highlights like the Torre & Igreja dos Clérigos — a baroque church with stunning architecture.

The Ribeira District is another picturesque spot not to skip —  with a beautiful riverside setting, historic charm, and a vibrant atmosphere — the neighborhood is an amazing glimpse into local life in Porto.

Antonio gave us the best 1/2 day tour of Porto. He knew some great picture spots and also gave us amazing lunch and dinner recommendations.  — KIM (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This tour makes use of an air-conditioned vehicle to get you to all of your stops in total comfort. Your guide will make sure you have time for photos everywhere you want and that you never feel rushed. 

BEST PORTO TOURS

2. explore porto by tuk-tuk  .

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🛺 BOOK NOW  

Enjoy zipping around the streets of Porto in a little tuk tuk on this epic Explore Porto by Tuk-Tuk experience . Why a tuk-tuk? This small little vehicle can easily get you through narrow streets and up steep hills to all of the best spots in the city. 

Make stops at spots like the Porto Cathedral where you can pause for photos with the impressive Romanesque building, and to take in the breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River.

We had a wonderful time! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the city. Explained very well! Porto is beautiful! — CLAUDIA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Explore parts of Porto University like the Edificio da Reitoria da Universidade do Porto and make sure to keep an eye out for students dressed in their Harry Potter-like robes (they had them first).

This tuk tuk tours Porto will bring you all through Porto old and new — from its peeks right down to its beachfront. 

3. Douro Valley Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 🍇 BOOK NOW  

Spend a full day out in the stunning countryside of the Douro Valley on this Private Tour of the Douro Valley.

You’ll be absolutely pampered throughout the day as you enjoy a wine tasting at an intimate, family-run Douro winery. 

So enjoyed the entire day. Felt like we experienced the true culture of Porto. Highly recommend this tour . — AMY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

If your day wasn’t already off to a perfect start you’ll continue on by boat, cruising slowly past the extraordinary terraced vineyards that hug the river on both sides.

Of course, you’ll have the chance to fill up on a delicious lunch which will be carefully paired with more local Douro wines. And, finally, 🍷 a glass of port to cap off a perfect day.

4. Portuguese Cooking Class with Wine  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 👩‍🍳 BOOK NOW  

Experience something near and dear to the heart of every Portuguese — their food. In this cooking class you’ll learn how to cook a classic Portuguese dish: codfish, or bacalhau.

You’ll also prepare mussels or clams as well as a desert of an almond tart. All of these spectacular dishes will be paired with the perfect wines for you to sip on throughout. 

The chefs were wonderful, entertaining, funny and great instructors. Would highly recommend this if you are in Porto. — ED (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll not only get your hands dirty cooking each of these dishes, but you’ll actually learn the process so you can take them home with you and repeat it. This is definitely one of the best food tours in Porto to get a taste for the dishes that Portuguese take great pride in. 

5. Private Douro River Boat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚤 BOOK NOW  

Enjoy an intimate tour along the Douro River on this chartered bridges cruise.

Pass under the amazing bridges that connect the city of Porto with the city of Vila Nova de Gaia , take a moment to appreciate their immense size and architectural diversity.

 10/10 recommend this experience!! This was truly the highlight of my trip and would do it again if I ever visit Porto again soon! — CONNIE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour continues westward towards the open ocean. If the weather is good, and the sea is calm, your guide will bring you all the way out the mouth of the river. But no matter what, you’ll get a chance to see Cabedelo Nature Reserve — a beautiful space of ecological diversity with pristine beaches and beautiful flora and fauna.

This is one of the best Porto boat tours to book for a relaxing afternoon. 

6. Porto by Night Tour with Fado Show & Dinner  

⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🎶 BOOK NOW  

Head out to experience the magic of Porto by night on this evening Fado show and dinner tour. Listening to Fado — a traditional Portuguese music with soulful melodies and longing, sorrowful lyrics — is an unmissable experience. 

This tour beautifully blends stops at Porto city highlights like the beautiful Sao Bento railway station with a dinner and a show.

I highly recommend this tour and dinner with Fado. Don’t miss it! It was our 21 year wedding celebration and couldn’t have been better. — TRAVELER (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

✨ You’ll also get the chance to see Porto’’s beautiful bridges and other landmarks illuminated at night.

Your dinner will be traditional Portuguese food like the famous cod. One of the best Porto tours by locals, you will definitely leave this dinner tour completely full and happy.

7. Porto City Tour with Lunch, Wine Tasting & Boat Cruise  

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW  

Combine a full day of sightseeing with a traditional Portuguese lunch, then sprinkle in a visit to the famous port wine cellars and top it all off with a cruise down the river. The result? The Ultimate Porto City Tour , one of the best tours in Porto Portugal.

This full day tour will give you a chance to check out the iconic buildings of Porto such as the cathedral and railway station along with a guided tour through one of the best port wine tour Porto has to offer. 

Arnaldo was an awesome guide. He made this tour extra special. — TERRY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then have a choice of fabulous Portuguese dishes to fill you up for lunch — the famous Porto sandwich — a francesinha , is on offer, as are cod dishes. 

One of the best port wine tours in Porto, book this Port tours Porto for a fabulous day out and an unforgettable experience in this Portuguese city

8. 4×4 Porto Mountain Excursion  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW  

Escape the city and explore its surroundings on this 4X4 tour, which will bring you into the wild of the Serras do Porto park.

There, you will have the chance to see Roman excavations dating back thousands of years . Go even further back and check out the rock formations in the park, which are hundreds of millions of years old.

We had so much fun on this trip! Our guide was so knowledgeable and accommodating.  — TERRY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Along with all of that history, explore what the countryside has to offer in the present day — visit a family-owned pastry shop, a farm, and stop for lunch in a beautiful small village.

🌿 Enjoy the quiet nature of the Porto countryside.

9. Porto Food and Wine Walking Tour  

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🍇 BOOK NOW  

Porto has a unique food and wine scene, which you can discover on this Porto Food and Wine Talking Tour — one of the top Porto food tours.

Throughout the tour, you’ll try a classic bifana — a simple but delicious pork sandwich, you’ll sample some bacalhau, a very traditional codfish dish. And of course you’ll try 🍷 port wine as well as Portuguese coffee and a delicious treat of a pastel de nata (a custard tart). 

Going from place to place around the city on this, one of the best food tours in Porto, you’ll learn all about what you’re eating and be totally satiated by the end of it all.

10. From Porto: Off-Road Buggy Adventure  

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🛺 BOOK NOW

Ready to try out something a bit different and unique? Head out of the city of Porto on an off-roading adventure with this half day tour into Serras do Porto Natural Park.

We had so much fun! Great equipment, some serious off-roading as well as driving through small towns we wouldn’t have seen otherwise. — KAREN (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From Roman ruins to the charming village of Quintandona , where everything is made of rock, take a break from the bustle of the city and enjoy the quiet as you take in all the natural beauty around you. 

Book this Porto day tours experience for an amazing time splashing through the mud and the muck of the forest.

11. Port Wine Tour with 7 Wine Tastings  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to really dig in and learn all about the local wine scene — and by that, I mean drink a lot of local wine, this is the perfect wine cellar tour for you .

Throughout the afternoon, you will visit a total of three wineries and taste a selection of seven different ports.  This tour takes place across the river from Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia, and all of the cellars are conveniently located in that area.

Nuno was a wonderful and lively guide, great at keeping us engaged and entertained. Big fan of the tour overall. — ALEX (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The experienced guides at each spot will tell you all about the winemaking process and guide you through your tastings to make sure you not only enjoy what you’re sipping but also understand the experience your mouth is having.

🍷 This is definitely one of the best port tours Porto for anyone with an interest in wine.

12. Guided Port Wine Walking Tour  

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to somehow do it all and get all of the sightseeing in Porto done all at once, this is the tour for you — a wine tour and a walking tour all in one.

And if you’re curious to stretch your Porto winery tours beyond just samples of port, this one guides you through tastes of green wine along with classic Douro Valley reds. 

Ana was a really good guide— did some good walking, tasting and learning . I recommend this activity. — HUIB (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

In total, you will visit three wineries in both Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto . As you make your way from one to the next, your guide will point out attractions along the way and give you recommendations of other spots to visit. 

🍷 This is hands-down one of the best port wine tours Porto has to offer.

13. Porto Highlights on an Electric Bike

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🚲 BOOK NOW

This Porto Highlights tour doesn’t provide you with a guide — it provides you with a storyteller.

Enjoy those stories and the history of everything you see as you whizz up the killer hills of Porto on an electric bike, exploring the highlights of Porto sightseeing. 

Such a great experience, we were able to see so many places in one go. There were many great views and it was fun to bike around using the e-bikes. — LIZ (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Thanks to the speed and ease with which you can travel on these Porto bike tours, you can see at least nine different attractions in just half a day .

Enjoy a visit to the tranquil Jardim da Cordoaria, a stop at the epic Livraria Lello, as well as a load of other iconic Porto spots — visit all the places of interest in Porto with ease on this electric bike experience.

14. Porto Surf Classes

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏄 BOOK NOW

This surf class brings you to the beaches outside Porto for a half day course. Total beginners and those with experience are all welcome.

You’ll start out on the beach to make sure you understand the theory of what to do once you hit the water.

It was a great introduction to surfing and the instructors were really helpful and encouraging! Would definitely recommend. — VANESSA (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Once you’re ready to leave the sand, you’ll only go to the shallow water as it hits the shore — this class is all about going slow and steady , and your experienced teachers will guide you every step of the way. 

🏄 Surfboards and wetsuits are provided, as is transportation from the city center. 

15. Pastel de Nata Cooking Class

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 👩‍🍳 BOOK NOW

It’s a well-known fact that you haven’t lived until you’ve bitten into a warm pastel de nata . But what about biting into one you’ve made with your very own hands?

That’s exactly what this cooking class provides — a chance to learn the authentic ways of the Portuguese custard tart.

This was one of the most enjoyable events we’ve done. Joanna is so knowledgeable about the baking process and she teaches it very clearly. — CHERYL (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll cook with your group, each taking turns getting your hands dirty, following the recipe of your host’s grandmother. As you go, you’ll learn not only about how the tart is made but also all about its history. 

When the tarts come out of the oven, you’ll sit down to enjoy them with your group, along with tea, coffee, and juice. One of the best Porto Portugal food tours if you are looking to create your very own pastel de nata.

5 Best Porto Day Trips 

16. aveiro, paiva walkways & arouca 516 footbridge.

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10.5 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Head out of Porto and visit the stunning little town of Arouca before hitting the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world — the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge — on this Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca Porto Day Tour.

Your walk across the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge offers heart-pounding views of the river below. If you decide to carry on through the Paiva Walkways — a series of wooden paths with steps and platforms — you’ll have about eight kilometers, or five miles, of exploring ahead of you.

Joao a 10 as a person and worker. I loved the excursion. One of the best tours I have ever done. — RAQUEL (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll continue on to explore Aveiro, where you can glide through the canals on a gondola ride. 

17. Fátima and Coimbra Full-Day Tour from Porto

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 📍 BOOK NOW

This day trip into Fatima and Coimbra is a fantastic way to dive into more of the culture of northern Portugal.

The story in Fatima is that t hree shepherd children saw Fatima, or the Virgin Mary, as she appeared and spoke to them. This tour brings you first to their home, where you can learn more about life in rural Portugal in the 20th century. You’ll also visit the famous chapel in the town. 

It was an amazing trip . Cristian was knowledgeable, speaks great English, and gave us sufficient time to explore. He was kind and patient. — LISA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Finally, Coimbra — the beautiful town which is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.  This is one of the best tours from Porto to book for anyone curious about more of the history of the region. 

18. Small Group Day Tour of Geres National Park

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Embark on a day out to Peneda-Gerês National Park , a wild space dripping in natural beauty. Enjoy being surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and lush landscapes.

This is a great tour for anyone who wants to escape the cities and discover more of Portugal’s wild side . You’ll have the opportunity to go for a dip in the natural pools of the waterfalls before stopping for a picnic lunch. 

This tour was absolutely amazing! We visited two waterfalls and swam in their beautiful and refreshingly waters. — TRAVELER (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

In addition to all the nature, your guide will bring you to one of the villages located within the park, where life is about as authentic and rustic as you can find in this day and age. 

19. Braga and Guimarães Day Trip with Lunch

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH : 10.5 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Explore Braga and Guimarães on this day trip and discover their rich historical heritage and stunning medieval architecture.

In addition to the exciting cities, you’ll also see amazing bits of natural Portugal, like at Bom Jesus Do Monte — where your tour starts off at a Catholic shrine on the top of a mountain with stunning views. 

This was a great experience and I recommend it for everyone. — RONALD (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Throughout the day, you’ll see highlights of the two cities like the Braga cathedral, Guimares castle — the oldest castle in Portugal — and the dazzling Palace of the Dukes. 

The day will include plenty of information about all of your stops from your knowledgeable and professional tour guide.

20. Aveiro & Costa Nova Tour with Moliceiro River Cruise

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH : 4 hours | ⚓ BOOK NOW

Combine the picturesque canals of Aveiro with the picture-perfect scene along Costa Nova’s beaches on this day tour to Aveiro and Costa Nova from Porto.

Head out from Porto and begin your education immediately as your guide tells you all about the history of the area. Once you arrive in Aveiro, you’ll get a chance to go for a ride along the canals in a Moliceiro —  a traditional Portuguese gondola-like boat. 

The boat ride, costa Nova and Aveiro were beautiful. Loved the striped houses! Guide was excellent. Highly recommend this tour. — CHRISTINE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From Aveiro your guide will bring you to Costa Nova, which is famous for its brightly colored fishermen’s huts. Against the sandy beach this is a lovely spot to stop for a break or to go for a stroll.

Final Thoughts: Best Porto Tours

Did these Porto excursions excite you? All caught up on the best Porto tours? Now, all you have to do is make sure you have time in your Porto/ itinerary for all of these amazing experiences. From Porto city tour bus rides that give you a fantastic overview of the city to in-depth Porto guided tours that delve into the rich culture and history, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Still don’t know Which Tour to Pick?

One of the best Porto tours is this All-Inclusive Private Douro Valley Tour , with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Each Portugal Porto attraction adds its own unique flavor to your journey, making every moment memorable. And don’t forget to check out Porto tours TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations on the best experiences.

If you’re tight on time, a day trip to Porto can be a great way to experience the city’s highlights. Remember that Porto tours from Lisbon are a convenient day trip option to explore Porto’s unique charm.

From the best port wine tour in Porto to the best tour from Porto to Douro Valley, and Porto free walking tours to the best food tours in Porto, Portugal, you won’t want to miss any of it.

My name is Caitlin. I am from Vermont, USA. I have lived in Setúbal, Portugal since 2021. I work as a writer and editor as well as a teacher. Outside of work I love horseback riding, hiking, and exploring new places around the globe. I write about my travels at The Country Jumper.

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Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal

Best things to do in porto portugal.

Porto is… a city torn between the currents of time. On one hand, is firmly rooted in the past with its history and culture in full display. On the other hand, it reaches out excitedly towards the future, complete with all the modern conveniences.

In between, Porto has its unique charm. Whether it’s a rustic view of the river or the countryside, a warm shot of port, or a welcoming smile from one of its locals, there are many things to do in Porto.

Also read: 10 Day Portugal Itinerary

Which is amazing, since it’s Portugal ’s second prime city. And yet it’s not one that’s trapped in the ravages of modernization, its skyline not ruined by the skyscrapers of today’s metropolis. There’s modern architecture, yes, but there’s also the raw street art not too far away from the classic tourist sights of museums and cathedrals.

Like in many other grand cities of the world, you could easily stay here for a week and still be fascinated. But if you don’t have that time, we have curated the best of Porto into this ultimate guide that will get you going!

If you want something a little more relaxed, you can also take a look at these Yoga Retreats in Portugal – some of them are located near beautiful Porto.

Porto Attractions

One of the main reasons why Porto draws a lot of tourists is because of its laid-back environment. Europe can be a pretty hectic place for a tourist (maybe not for a local) because of the many things to see, and Porto allows you an opportunity to just sit back or maybe take a slow stroll while appreciating what it has to offer. Even with a laid-back town like Porto, it’s best to be prepared with the Porto Pass to get you where you need to go.

That does not mean there aren’t a lot of Porto sights, though. Between the beautiful landscapes and the museums, your eyes will have a lot to feast on!

Porto Sights: Sé Cathedral

You don’t have to be a Catholic to appreciate the grandness of the Cathedral otherwise known simply as “Sé”. The stone structure hails back to the 13th century, and has a myriad of architectural influences from the Gothic to the Romanesque.

It’s hard to miss its silver altarpiece and its ceramic-tiled cloister, among the many treasures that lie in its otherwise simple (at least in comparison with other European cathedrals) façade.

Of course, its fortress-like vantage point also gives way to an amazing view of the city below, with its orange-brown roofs. The cathedral’s terrace overlooks this perfectly, giving you some really Instagrammable shots at some quality Porto attractions!

To get to the Sé, alight at the São Bento stop of the D (yellow) rail line. There’s a EUR 3 cost to enter the cloister, but the rest of the Cathedral is free. The Sé is open daily from 9AM to 6PM.

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

The name translates to “Crystal Palace Gardens”, and while no Crystal Palace is in sight (it was demolished in 1956) the gardens are really worth your while. The flowers, greenery, fountains, and general ambience feels like the set of one of those Hollywood period films about royalties! There are even peacocks that roam here, though they can be quite shy.

There’s a pavilion here for events, though it’s quite plain. It’s best to stick to the multitude of flower classes here and the priceless view of the Douro River!

There are two metro stops near the Jardins — the Aliados stop of the yellow line, and the Carolina Michaelis stop that services all the other lines. There are also bus routes, and you can catch either Bus No. 200 or 207 and get off the Palácio stop.

Dom Luís I Bridge

Bridges aren’t always likely candidates for top things to do in a city, but the Dom Luís I Bridge is especially interesting. Aside from being an important artery of traffic in Porto, the bridge was the product of a student of Gustave Eiffel — the architectural similarities between this and Paris’ top attraction is readily visible. It was also once the longest iron arch bridge in the world.

But what really makes it great is the spectacular view it affords of the Douro River. Pedestrians can walk along the sides of the bridge’s two levels. As a plus, there are also great wineries nearby!

The bridge is on the northern side of Vila Nova de Gaia. If you’re walking, you can take the metro to São Bento or Jardim do Morro stations, serviced by the yellow line.

Sogrape Vinhos Wineries

Speaking of wineries, this is one thing you really should do before leaving Porto ! Port wine is definitely one of the city’s greatest creations. And Sogrape Vinhos is one of the most distinguished in this regard, owning three cellars (Sandeman, Ferreira, and Offley) in Vila Nova de Gaia.

You can visit all three of them, and each one has a distinguished history starting from the 1700s. Aside from the port, keep your eyes peeled for the photographs and other memento from their rich history!

A wine-tasting experience could cost anywhere from EUR 3 to EUR 35 depending on how intimate you want to get with Porto’s beloved export. There’s a basic wine tour across all three that costs around EUR 10.

All cellars can be reached via the Jardim do Morro stop on the metro’s yellow line.

Estacão de São Bento

We’ve been talking about railway stations for some time now, but did you know that there is a station in Porto that is a tourist attraction on its own? This is the São Bento station, with which you can reach southeast of the Avenida dos Aliados (the main tourist avenue of Porto, with lots of cool shops and cafés). This makes it a no-brainer to get here. The station is on the yellow line, and you can enter and walk around for free.

The station is built on the former site of a monastery, and its claim to fame is the painstakingly painted and installed azulejos , blue and white tiles that together make up a mural-esque pictorial history of Portugal. The installation was so momentous it took a decade to finish it!

There’s also the architecture of the station itself, which makes it a really unique and must-see attraction.

Eating like a local in Porto

Most tourists see the food scene of Porto as a never-ending parade of sardines and chouriço. While salted fish is indeed an indelible part of the cuisine (and history) of Portugal as a whole, there are some really good and interesting eats here you should try.

Francesinha

This might be unfamiliar to first-time tourists, which is a shame. This is a sandwich that’s piling on a steak, three different types of sausages, and served with a fried egg and french fries. Oh, did I mention the entire thing is covered in melted cheese? There’s a super secret sauce, too, which they say is made from meat, seafood, and various types of alcohol. Make sure you check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels before you try this! Or maybe don’t bother and just enjoy.

This is one of Porto’s staple dishes, and you would really enjoy it if you choose the right francesinha place. Check out Francesinha Café over at Rua da Alegria. If you want a setting that’s a bit more intimate, there’s Yuko Tavern at Rua de Costa Cabral.

Alheira: Northern Portugal

If you can’t get enough of meat, these white smoked sausages endemic to the North Portuguese regions will give you your fill! The sausages are made from a variety of meats, from poultry to game (the latter including rabbit and venison). While these sausages are found all over Portugal, there’s no better place to have them in than in Porto.

If you want the traditional homemade quality alheira, head over to the Mercado do Bolhão and buy some raw alheira! The place is at Rua da Alegria. Make sure to stop and have a chat with the sellers to know more about the sausage’s interesting history, too!

Tripas à Moda do Porto

While this sounds like the name of a resto, it’s Porto’s other local tradition (maybe even more so than the francesinha). It’s a stew made of tripe (hence the name), cooked with some meat and a lot of white beans. The flavor is given by a generous heaping of cumin. Tripas is such a local staple that Thursday is a de facto tripe day, in pretty much the same way as Friday marks the appearance of ginisang monggo in the carinderias back home!

Tripas is best tasted at Restaurante Pombeiro, on Rua Capitão Pombeiro.

Broa de Avintes

Let’s side-track a bit and move on from meat to bread. This famous Porto bread originally came from Avintes, a town near Porto. Dense yet soft, dark, and flavorful, this is what banana bread would have looked like if it did not have sugar! Broa de Avintes is served with various dishes, along with starters (ham and cheese!), and is a nod to tradition since the cooking process takes a full 6 hours.

High quality Broa de Avintes is sold at the Mercearia das Flores, located at Rua das Flores. Try using it for a sandwich, and you’ll see why it’s so famous!

Açorda: Specialty of Portugal

Seafood is a specialty everywhere in Portugal, and every region has its take. In Porto, it’s the Açorda, a stew brought to life by coriander and garlic, and filled with fish and other seafood.

In fact, a nice bowl of Açorda may be your best bet in eating real fresh seafood during your stay. Most tourists really go for the sardines, but the thing is it’s not in season for the most part of the year (and hence is very expensive). But it you head to the north of Porto, to the village called Matosinhos, and find your way to Rua Heróis da Pátria, then you can take your pick of any of the seafood restos here and enjoy to your heart’s content!

Porto Activities: Drink Your Heart Out and More!

Tour douro valley: attractive porto.

 One of Porto’s most attractive sections, you can easily spend a whole day here. The valley has a slew of wine-tasting opportunities, from port wine to table wine. The area also produces olive oil. For those into sceneries, you can take a slow cruise along the Douro river on a traditional boat.

Douro Valley is best experienced in a tour setting, where you have a guide to show you the best viewpoints. Among these is the Peso da Régua, which gives an amazing view of the whole city!

Do a Hop-on, Hop-off Tour

Those who’ve been to the US and some Asian countries will be familiar with the Hop-on, Hop-off bus . Porto has its own, and there are two routes that will grant you access to some of Porto’s greatest attractions! Turn the buses into your very own tour bus with a day ticket (or two-day ticket) that takes you from the salt-kissed neighborhoods beside the beach to magnificent sights like the Sé Cathedral.

The buses are open-top, so you can get a panoramic view. It’s also great for people watching as you pass through the Central Baixa area, which is the city’s civic center. As a plus, there are also audio guides that will give you the lowdown on the place you are visiting! It really is like a tour of its own.

Do a Guimarães and Braga Day Tour

These two cities are some of the more interesting places in Portugal, and they are close enough to Porto for a day tour! Guimarães is notable for being the land that birthed Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king. Of course, there’s a castle and a cathedral to commemorate this important historic fact.

Braga is, similarly, an interesting city with great views, a landmark monastery, and its own twist on Portuguese cuisine!

You can easily reach Guimarães from Porto by leaving through the São Bento station. The trip takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes. From there, you can get to Braga through the Rodonorte (numbers 12, 31, and 2). This trip takes about half an hour.

The best part? All of these activities can be done via tours, through Get Your Guide . They offer top-shelf service and an in-depth look into Porto’s culture! This is also great since you don’t have to worry about catching all the connecting buses and trains.

Other Sightseeing Porto Tours

• Porto: City Train Tour, River Cruise, and Wine Cellar
• Douro Valley Wine Tasting, River Cruise, and Lunch
• Porto Card with Transportation
• Torre Dos Clerigos Entrance Tickets
• Porto: 3 Hour Guided Tour
• Fado Show with Port Wine
• 4.5 Hour Porto Pub Crawl
• Porto: Half-Day Food Tour

As always, don’t be afraid to get lost in this city. Each twist and turn will bring you new adventures, new sights, and new things to ponder. Keep an open mind. Let Porto’s laid-back spirit be your travel guide!

Things To Do in Porto Portugal was written by Karla Ramos for EuropeUpClose .

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My question is that on the day we return to Lisbon on the train, would it make sense to stay in the Oriente area near the station, so we don't have to travel far to get to our accommodation, and it's a very easy trip on the train to the airport the next day? I don't know that area at all, so don't know whether it's a good idea.

If we have time for more sightseeing in Lisbon the on our arrival day from Porto, we are very happy to take the metro into the older part of Lisbon (or just for a final dinner).

Thanks for your opinions.

3 replies to this topic

Oriente metro station is a six minute journey to the airport and about 25 minutes to the centre.

Thanks for the responses. I actually didn't realise the train could go past Oriente station- I thought that was the end of the line. In that case, Santa Apolonia Station could be a better destination.

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The affordable desert island less than four hours from the UK

Tiny porto santo, just north of madeira in the atlantic, has six hotels, one beach and landscapes millions of years old. it’s now accessible with new flights from tui.

I t’s almost inconceivable, in this era of constant recommendations, Instagram influencers and Google Maps, that you could find somewhere in Europe that feels truly untrodden. Somewhere with year-round sun and direct flights that hasn’t suffered from rampant development and mass tourism. It sounds like the travel holy grail, particularly when it’s affordable too. Well, I’ve found it … in Porto Santo.

When I told friends I was going, almost everybody asked where it was (although most guessed Portugal — its name translates as holy harbour). Some facts: this tiny Portuguese island, just seven miles long by four miles wide, is 27 miles off the coast of Madeira in the Atlantic. About 5,000 people live here. Until Tui restarted direct flights earlier this month, the only other way to get here was via a handful of nearly two-hour flights from Lisbon, a 25-minute flight from Madeira or a two-and-a-half-hour ferry from Funchal in Madeira (far more fun).

Porto Santo is so small that there are just six hotels and the “capital”, Vila Baleira, is a village, with nothing more than a few pastelarias on its cobbled streets — plus the former home of the explorer Christopher Columbus, who lived here briefly with his wife, Filipa Moniz Perestrelo, a Portuguese noblewoman. There is one playground on the entire island, much to my lively four-year-old’s disappointment. Tenerife or Lanzarote, where there have been recent protests against overtourism , thanks to the almost 14 million visitors each year, this is not. In 2023, about 1.5 million visitors landed in the Madeiran archipelago, and only a tiny proportion of those will have made it to Porto Santo.

It does share some DNA with the Canaries, though. It is similarly volcanic, with scrubby brown mountains in the west towering over the six-mile east-coast beach (singular) that’s made from fine blond sand (unlike neighbouring Madeira, where the beaches are black). There’s the same windblown, exposed nature; the spiky cacti and the flowering bougainvilleas; and the sharp light bouncing off yellow buildings. There’s that tingly-hairs-on-the-back-of-neck feeling when you look out across the crashing Atlantic that you’re at the end of the earth, somehow. But there’s something about this island that feels even more extreme.

It’s a feeling only exaggerated by the fact that, at any time, there is just one weekly planeload of international tourists here — plus some day-trippers from Madeira and domestic travellers from mainland Portugal. The airport, once used by Nato for planes to refuel en route from Europe to the Falklands, is deader than Tenerife’s hopes of turning the clock back on mass tourism. hearing the whoosh of a plane taking off or landing is truly a head-swivelling moment here.

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Tourism officials are hoping that this sea-blasted island of rock and sand will attract more visitors and so are jubilant at the return of Tui, which at the beginning of May restarted weekly flights, which take less than four hours from Gatwick.

The flights depart every Wednesday until the end of October, which may feel limiting, although it’s a quick hop from better-connected Madeira via the daily Porto Santo Line ferries (from £36 return; portosantoline.pt).

We’ve given ourselves four days, using Madeira as our entry point, and we pull into Porto Santo by ferry from Funchal a few days after Tui unloaded its first passengers from Gatwick for the season. By late morning, the sun is blinding; when you’re this exposed, it feels stronger than the 21C temperature would suggest, and my skin immediately tingles with the heat. Year-round, the temperatures on Porto Santo are pretty perfect. The mercury consistently hovers between 20C and 30C, and there are only a handful of wet days, thanks to the relatively low altitude of the mountains. The only rain tends to be vacuumed up by higher-altitude Madeira, which is green and lush by comparison. However, the weather can flip lightning fast, going from scorching blue skies to cloudy in seconds, a feeling oddly familiar to this Brit.

A ten-minute taxi ride along the island’s single main road takes us to the orange and terracotta Portuguese-style villas of the Pestana Porto Santo resort, an all-inclusive property and one of only two hotels that Tui sells on the island. Two sinuous, ice-cold pools curve around the rooms and restaurants, and the Pico de Ana Ferreira mountain looms behind. The landscape makes me think not of Europe, but of the Drakensberg mountains in South Africa, a reminder that we’re only 300 miles west of the Moroccan coast.

The Pestana is ideal for family fly-and-floppers who want a well-priced, no-faff holiday (all-inclusive packages for early May were less than £800 per person, which is excellent value — plus there are free kids’ places at this hotel all summer). There’s direct access to a stretch of Porto Santo beach, which runs almost from one end of the island to the other, with umbrellas and sunloungers (available for a cheeky £13 extra for a half day), and where the waves crash roughly onto the beach. We spend sunny mornings scooping up seaweed to throw at each other, before attempting to make sandcastles with the too-fine sand.

The benefit of an all-inclusive is that I don’t worry about late-morning iced coffees and late-afternoon ice creams. The downside that the buffet restaurant, Mares, is a little uninspiring and the entertainment is rowdy (although we never miss a morning high-five with Pestaninha, the hotel’s blue-and-white striped tiger mascot). The speciality restaurant, Madeira Lover’s, where guests can eat if they’re staying for more than four nights, is a highlight — we’ve been given special dispensation to try it, even if the unnecessary apostrophe makes me itch. We graze on gorgeous plates of oil-drizzled tuna and local black scabbard, as well as churrasco served on tableside skewers, underneath a raffia canopy surrounded by aloe vera, juniper and coconut palms that ruffle gently in the wind. The sun falls behind Pico de Ana Ferreira.

The mountain, the highest point on the western side of the island, sprouts into the “piano keys” at its peak, basalt columns that look like organ pipes, a larger-than-life version of the Giant’s Causeway that is great fun to clamber up, buzzards circling overhead. The mountain’s caves are also the subject of local folklore. Our guide, Sofia Santos, who takes us out exploring in a 4×4 one hot afternoon, tells me the threat of the bogeyman hidden within is how her mother got her to eat her greens as a child.

Adventurous sorts can hike or hire ebikes to zip between the island’s peaks, but we need a more relaxed introduction and another 4×4 is just as thrilling a way to explore Porto Santo’s hostile western side. We drive off-road to the island’s tiny desert, stacked with sandstone rock so friable my fingernail easily grates it into powder, snail fossils that are millions of years old and the white sand dunes that from the top give an incredible panorama. We see the red lava flows that slide down the rock into the sea at the Morenos scenic point. It also comes with a sweet barbecue area from which to watch the sunset and hundreds shooting stars visible on summer nights, thanks to the lack of light pollution. Next is the Quinta das Palmeiras, a family-run mini zoo and botanical garden with flamingos, parrots and macaws, past hillsides cloaked in Aleppo pines and Lebanese cedars. And lastly to the Miradouro da Portela, a heart-stopping viewpoint across the beach, from one side of the island to the other.

We come back down the mountain a few hours later, windblown and red-cheeked, falling gratefully on lemonade and bottles of Super Bock beer at the beach. This island has always been a place of extremes, a staging post between continents, and right now it’s astonishingly under the radar. Come before everyone else does.

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Cathy Adams was a guest of Tui, which has seven nights’ all-inclusive at the Pestana Porto Santo resort from £1,171pp. A 4×4 tour to Pico de Ana Ferreira and villages through Tui Experiences costs £28 per adult, £15 per child (tui.co.uk)

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