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15 of the best things to do in Porto

Feb 24, 2024 • 9 min read

Soaking in the amazing city views is just one of Porto's top experiences © Jayme Burrows / Stocksy

Stretching along the sinewy curves of the Douro River, Porto is a city of hilly cobblestone lanes, avant-garde museums and grand architectural monuments that date back to the Middle Ages.

It’s also a top city for culinary adventures amid northern Portugal’s finest restaurants and wine bars. You’ll find maze-like neighborhoods that are a delight (mostly) to get lost within and vertiginous viewpoints teetering high above the terracotta rooftops. Some of Porto’s best experiences simply have no analog in Portugal (or anywhere else for that matter) – whether walking Porto’s famed cast-iron bridge above the river as the sun sets beyond the seaside, or hunting down the latest street art carved into the walls in the lanes of Miragaia.

Whether you come for a weekend or stay for a week , don’t miss these top things to do in Porto.

1. Take in the river views from the bustling Ribeira district

Porto began its life as a quiet fishing village on the bank of the Douro River on the site of the modern-day neighborhood of  Ribeira . Today, the district buzzes with activity day and night. Although it's very tourist-centric, travelers flock to Ribeira for a reason – notably its knockout views of the river. You’ll also find back-to-back restaurants and bars, craft markets and street performances. Just back from the river, visit  Casa do Infante , where Prince Henry the Navigator was born in 1394. As the sponsor of many Portuguese expeditions, Henry is also honored by a statue outside the opulent  Palácio da Bolsa (which is worth a gander on its own merits).

2. Soak up the seaside atmosphere in Foz do Douro

When the sun is shining, it seems as though all of Porto descends on  Foz do Douro for a bit of beach time followed by drinks at terrace cafes overlooking the ocean. On steamy summer days, you can cool off in the chilly water. At other times of the year , you can join locals on runs, bike rides or saunters along the seaside promenade, which runs for 2.5km (1.6 miles) up to Matosinhos, Porto’s biggest city beach . For a shorter walk, you can stroll out along a jetty to the 19th-century  Felgueiras Lighthouse , which has dramatic views over the wave-battered shore. Bike it from Porto or hop on vintage tram 1 to arrive in old-fashioned style.

Planning tip:  For fresh-off-the-boat seafood, factor in lunch in Matosinhos, where an entire street (Rua Heróis de França) is enshrouded in the smoke from sizzling outdoor grills.

3. Climb the Clérigos Tower

The 76m-high (249ft)  Torre dos Clérigos , designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 1700s, is Porto’s signature landmark. The baroque tower soars above the city rooftops and visitors can climb 225 steps to reach far-reaching city views from the top. It's not an experience for the claustrophobic – the structure definitely wasn’t built with big crowds in mind!

Planning tip:  After making the climb, drop into the adjoining church – a baroque beauty from 1750 – or simply kick back on the manicured lawn of the adjacent Jardim das Oliveiras. The chilled open-air bar  Base is also conveniently located near the tower, making it the perfect spot for a post-climb drink.

4. Admire the splendor of Igreja de São Francisco

Unprepossessing on the outside but as intricate as a Fabergé egg on the inside, Porto’s  Igreja de São Francisco is an indulgent feast of baroque splendor. The staggeringly intricate interior glows with gold-leaf finery and lustrous woodwork. Look out for the polychrome Tree of Jesse altarpiece as well as the masterful handiwork of craftsmen Filipe da Silva and António Gomes, and drop into the museum to see sacred art and portraits of long-departed bishops.

Local tip:  Make time to visit the eerie yet fascinating catacombs, which are silent when the crowds depart. This is where the great and the good of Porto were once interred.

5. Immerse yourself in cutting-edge art in Serralves

A hike from the heart of Porto but well worth the detour,  Serralves brings together avant-garde architecture, contemporary art, a sculpture-strewn park and a bijou art deco mansion in one harmonious whole. Inside, the arrestingly minimalist design of the Museu de Arte Contemporânea was the brainchild of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Álvaro Siza, bearing his trademark clean lines, playful heights and natural materials. Porto’s answer to the Guggenheim, it draws on an impressive permanent collection, featuring works from the late 1960s to the present in rotating exhibitions. 

Planning tip:  After enjoying the art, explore Serralves’ wild side and take a stroll amid floral gardens, forested paths and open meadows. Say hello to the cows and other barnyard animals in the southeast end of the park, or head skyward into the park’s lush canopy on a  treetop walk . 

6. See the sights of Sé cathedral

Gazing defiantly over Porto from its hilltop perch,  the fortress-like Sé evokes the city’s imperial past. This handsome cathedral wields serious historical clout as the spot where Prince Henry the Navigator was baptized in 1394 and where King John I married in 1387. Of Romanesque origins, the 12th-century cathedral was given a baroque facelift in the 18th century. A barley-twist pillar crowns the cathedral courtyard, which commands sweeping views over the sagging houses, terracotta rooftops, and crocheted alleyways of Ribeira.

7. Browse for one-of-a-kind gift ideas at the Mercado do Porto Belo 

On Saturdays, the Praça Carlos Alberto forms the backdrop to Porto’s best market . Join a wide cross-section of Porto society while digging for treasures amid stalls of records, vintage clothing, elegant stationery, antiques, crafts, handmade jewelry, old-fashioned toys, beautifully wrapped soaps and artwork. There’s also a small food component, featuring seasonal fruits and jams. While it’s small compared to its namesake in  London , the market is a great place to support local designers and artisans.

8. Seek out Porto's Insta-worthy tiles (azulejos)

Portuguese design is epitomized by the walls of colorful tiles known as azulejos , traditionally adorned with repetitive, intricate patterns or mural scenes executed in blue and white. Some of the most impressive tile art can be found inside São Bento train station , where stories of Portugal’s past stretch from floor to ceiling. Also check out the sides of  Capela das Almas on Porto’s main commercial strip, the walls of  Rua de Santa Catarina , and the handsome  Igreja do Carmo , a church that drips with gold on the inside.

Planning tip:  Don’t feel limited to these popular drawcards. Keep a lookout as you wander the city as  azulejos are scattered all over, and discovery is part of the fun.

9. Follow Porto's street art trail

If you want to explore an alternative side of Porto, leave the main sights behind and hit the pavement. As you wander the backstreets and nip down alleyways, keep your eyes peeled for Porto’s ancillary population of vividly colorful murals, painted by the city’s talented street artists.

Planning tip:  Start the street art trail by seeking out some of the heavy hitters like Daniel Eime’s massive photo-realistic mural entitled Mira on the Largo de Artur Arcos , or Vhils’ powerful tribute to healthcare workers featuring his trademark carving style at the Hospital São João. Other good places to hunt for street art are around Travessa de Cedofeita, along graffiti-emblazoned Rua da Madeira, and on Rua das Flores in Ribeira. Top detours include Mirigaia's Rua São Pedro de Miragaia, gallery-lined Rua Miguel Bombarda and the car lot at Trindade, with works by street art demigods MrDheo and Hazul Luzah. 

10. Find the perfect spot to watch the sunset 

Porto’s west coast location, at the intersection of the North Atlantic Ocean and the Douro River, makes for some epic sunsets. When the daylight starts to fade, Porto hipsters grab a beatbox and some cold beers and head to the narrow  park along Passeio das Virtudes, which slips down the hillside in a series of terraces. When you see how busy this place gets, you’ll realize that Porto sunsets are serious business. The beachfront at Foz do Douro is another top spot to catch the sun's last rays, as is the  Jardim do Morro in Vila Nova de Gaia.

11. Experience world-class acoustics inside the Casa da Música

Porto’s top concert hall is the  Casa da Música , which has stellar acoustics inside a futuristic Rem Koolhaas-designed polygon. You’ll find a wide mix of programming, featuring both grand symphony orchestras as well as jazz groups and the occasional rock icon.

Planning tip:  During the summer, the terrace of the cafe transforms into an open-air stage for free live concerts and DJ sessions from Wednesdays to Friday nights. 

12. Have a Porto picnic

Porto's warm days are tailor-made for picnics. Assemble a portable feast of Portuguese cheese and northern Portugal’s refreshing vinho verde (a light wine from the Minho) and roll out a blanket at one of Porto’s many inviting green spaces . You can watch the ducks and geese on the ponds at the  Parque da Cidade , Portugal’s biggest urban park, or sit beneath an olive tree and admire the view over the Douro from the elegant grounds of the  ​​Jardins do Palácio de Cristal .

Planning tip:  For pure romance, time your visit for the late afternoon, and you can enjoy yet another fine spot to watch the sunset. 

13. Enjoy a port tasting

Portugal’s famous port lodges are located in Porto’s cross-river sister city  Vila Nova de Gaia . Gaia, as it’s more commonly called, is easily reached via a stroll or metro ride across the iconic  Ponte de Dom Luís I , which was built by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel (of  Eiffel Tower fame). Tour and taste Porto’s eponymous tipple at vintage cellars such as  Ramos Pinto ,  Graham’s or  Taylor’s , with the latter offering stellar views of the Douro River from its rooftop terrace. 

Planning tip:  You can delve deeper into the port experience at the  World of Wine , a vast cultural complex that contains various museums, a wine school and a dozen restaurants and bars – plus a huge terrace with views over the Ponte Dom Luís I, the Douro and the city across the water. 

14. Cross the Ponte de Dom Luís I

Completed in 1886 by a student of Gustave Eiffel, Porto's  most eye-catching bridge is a city icon. It was built to replace a precarious crossing between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia made from old port boats lashed together – most would agree that its curving arch adds a definite something to the cityscape. From the upper deck, the views over the river and old town are stunning. Keep an eye out for daredevils who leap from the lower level into the river.

15. Join the party people in Baixa 

If you’re seeking out the heart of Porto’s nightlife, head to the cobblestone lanes just west of Avenida dos Aliados. There you’ll find some of the city’s most atmospheric bars like the  Casa do Livro , a former bookshop turned into a stylish drinking den, or  Bonaparte Downtown , with its rustic charm. On weekends, the alleys (especially Rua Galeria de Paris) fill with revelers for an impromptu street party that rages late into the night.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2024

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What Are Conventual Sweets? A Guide to Portugal’s Delicious Desserts

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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!

Take a look at our ultimate guides to Lisbon ,  Albufeira , and more with all the information you need for your next trip to Portugal.

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Beautiful Porto: Things To Do, See, And How To Travel in Porto, Portugal

Ahhhh, porto. cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and gorgeous  azulejo glazed ceramic tiles.

Sunsets on the Luis I Bridge over the Douro River…or oceanside where the river meets the Atlantic. Romantic alleyway dinners followed with a €2 glass of sweet Port wine, born in the Douro Valley upriver. This city of around 230,000 people is large enough to captivate for days… or weeks …on end. A It’s a city small enough to feel quaint and approachable, but there are still plenty of things to do in Porto.

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Of course Porto can be taken in quickly, but if you have the opportunity to stay longer, I highly suggest you do. There are just so many things to do in Porto. I spent 10 days on my first visit to Porto, slowly exploring the many different areas of the city—much outside of the historic center and what is considered the “old town.”

There’s much to be missed if you simply stay in the “touristic” areas of Porto.

This Porto travel guide will help you explore not only the things to do in Porto’s old town, but also many of the offbeat places worth getting to by walking or taking one of the extremely clean and easy city buses. Gorgeous botanical gardens, the mouth of the ocean, and even an amazingly haunting cemetery seemingly plucked from an Edgar Allan Poe story.  

Lonely Planet Portugal Travel Guide—2021 Up-to-date information –  All businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after the 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak… check price

First Things First…Take A “Free” Walking Tour Of Porto

I have to begin here, as it’s literally the most important thing I do in every new city I visit. Porto is nowhere near the size of Lisbon, but regardless, taking a free walking tour is by far the cheapest and fastest way to get your bearings. Two to three hours with a knowledgeable Porto travel guide showing you paths to most of the “tourist spots,” food and drink spots, and other things to do along the way.

I recommend Porto Walkers as they employ locals that truly understand the history. And make sure to tip your guide, as that’s how they earn a living. But if you want to do an inexpensive paid tour and learn about the Portuguese Age of Discovery and why the city was given the UNESCO World Heritage status, check this one out.

The Best Things To Do In Porto, Portugal – My Top 5 Recommendations

I know why you’re here…you want the visual sexiness and the “must-see” spots for when you travel to Porto. Trust me, there are plenty that fit that bill. I could give you the low hanging fruit and tell you to visit one of the many Port wine manufacturers or to take in some live Fado music, but those are pretty easy recommendations. Keep in mind though that I tend to explore not only the “must-see” spots, but also try to let the universe guide me to the places that feed my soul. Finding those places often only requires picking a direction and walking. Some of the best moments in travel…and life…are the unplanned ones. That’s where some of these recommendations come from; simply walking aimlessly and turning a corner to have my fire ignited by an unexpected gem. 

Every time I think “I should plan more,” serendipitous moments like those remind me how beautiful life can be when we simply let ourselves go where the wind blows. 

Take A Port Wine Tour On The Gaia Side Of The River

If you’re in the birthplace of port wine, you must learn about and sample the goods. Not gonna lie, I’m not too big on spending money on touristy things, and I’m often thrilled to simply walk around and be in awe of my new surroundings. But the €35 wine tour by Porto Walkers was absolutely the most fun I had while in Porto.

Our group of about 15, with our Porto travel guide Alex (ask for him if possible!), learned, drank, and laughed for over three hours. Then I went with a group of new friends and kept things going at dinner based on his recommendations. Journey through the wine-making process, sample no less than 7 glasses of different styles of ports, and make new friends. What’s not to love? 

Take In A Sunset At The Many Amazing Sunset Spots In Porto

Seriously, there are so many amazing places to see the sun set over the Douro River that it needs an entire article dedicated to it! Easily one of the best things to do in Porto—and it’s free! My favorite… by a very close margin …was from the  viewpoint of the Ponte Luis I bridge.  It’s much less crowded and gives a view of the beautiful bridge that’s often wildly crowded at sunset.

Other spots worth catching a sunset from are literally  in the middle of  the Ponte Luis 1 bridge or on the Jardim Do Morro Park on the Gaia side of the river. With a drink and locals at Parque das Virtudes, Miradouro da Vitória, at the Porto Cathedral, or immersed in the lush Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. 

Visit The Jardins Do Palácio De Cristal

If you long for green spaces and sometimes need to “escape the city” to get grounded—like I do—you must spend an hour or two at the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. Winding trails through fairy-tale-like landscapes complete with koi ponds, castle-like towers to explore, and  actual  live…like for real…peacocks roaming the grounds.

Bonus for you if you grab a bottle of wine to take in the sunset, as drinking in the streets and parks is completely acceptable in Porto. 

Photograph The Beautiful Azulejo Tiles Of Porto

Throughout Porto…and all of Portugal…you’ll experience the beautiful glazed blue “ azulejo”  tiles. While the blues are gorgeous, you’ll also find that many residential buildings are clad with tiles in all colors of the rainbow. But if you want to see some of the best examples of blue azulejos on the exteriors of buildings, check out: Parish Church of St. Nicholas, Church Santo Ildefonso, Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas (The Chapel of Souls…shown above), or Igreja de São Martinho de Lordelo.

Sample Pasteis De Nata…After Watching Them Being Made

They’re delicious…and totally fat and sugar-free… wink.   One thing you must do in Porto, or in Portugal in general, is to try a  warm  pastel de nata. But to add to the fresh-baked deliciousness, start your morning by watching them be made in the windows of Manteigaria- Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata .

Once you’re done watching and purchasing a few, take a stroll up the bustling shopping street of Rua De Santa Catarina and check out the blue azulejo (glazed tile) exterior of the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls).

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Porto Travel Guide – Other Things To Do In Porto, Portugal

Walk Across The Luís I Bridge

This is a no-brainer for things to do in Porto. Better views of the Douro River, or the Porto (north) and Gaia (south) sides of the river will be hard to find all from one viewpoint. Add to that the crowds of onlookers and the regular passing trains and depending on the time of day it can be pretty magical. Nearby are the Porto Cathedral and the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, also worth spending some time taking in. 

Explore The Church Of São Francisco…And The Catacombs Underneath (above)

Spending the €8 or so to tour this beautifully gilded church and its catacombs is well worth the cost. If you get all dreamy about Gothic Architecture…like I do…this is one of the best representations for you to see in Porto. The bonus is that this spot is a little off of the tourist path, so crowds inside can be less than other more touristed spots, even on the weekends. 

Step Inside Igreja de S. João Novo (above)

Another church that seems to go under the radar, Igreja de S. João Novo is absolutely stunning inside. On a Saturday morning, I stumbled on this church and  literally  the only  (visible)  soul inside was the man tuning up the organ. Again, go where the crowds aren’t and you’ll often be pleasantly surprised with what you find.

Check Out Some Bad-Ass T-Shirt Shops

Yep. I’m throwing this in here because they’re freaking awesome.  Typographia  has local artists, as well as commissioned international artists, designing their shirts. They’re sold in very few select locations in Porto, Lisbon, and a few other spots around western Europe. And if you need a nerd fix comprised of wookies, Scranton references, legos, or wizards wands, check out  Tee Legend  – “T-Shirts for Geeks, Nerds & Jedis.” 

Explore The Tombs & Chapels Of Cemitério de Agramonte

Planted amidst a backdrop of Porto’s more modern 20th-century architecture, in the more corporate part of the city, is this homage to the past. I’ve seen a lot of cemeteries, but this one tops the list as one of the most elaborate and decorative in such a dense space.

The fact that you can enter one of the two-story tombs…and walk the hall of the catacomb underneath…is worth the trip. One of the truly odd but epic things to do in Porto. But an hour or two could easily be spent here taking in the history of souls. Oh, and it’s free to enter… please, just be respectful.

Portugal Travel Guide: With Madeira & the Azores—2021 Lisbon, the Algarve, the Alentejo, Porto and Northern Portugal, Coimbra and Central Portugal, and the Azores and Madeira… check price

Tour Balsa Palace In Porto (AKA The Old Porto Stock Exchange)

There are few buildings this beautiful inside that aren’t churches in Porto. I had seen some images online, but they did absolutely no justice to seeing the Porto Stock Exchange with my own eyes. Entry is around €10, but it includes a guided tour that takes 30-45 minutes with plenty of history. Even if you dropped that coin  just  to see the Arab room for 5 minutes, it would be worth it. Oh, and you have to pay for a guided tour as they don’t let anyone in without a guide.

Honestly, It was really hard not to keep The Bolsa Palace / Porto Stock Exchange out of my  top things to do in Porto. Protip: Go early, and if you’re really there for photos and less interested in the history, just ask which is the smallest tour. I took the tour in English, and the history is fascinating…but this is your show!   Get your ticket here, then go early to choose the time and what language of tour you prefer.

Walk Through The Trees And Blooms At The Jardim Botânico do Porto

This was an unplanned treat for this botanical garden lover. One of the benefits of not over-planning is that it gives you the chance to just stumble upon things. That’s what happened with Porto’s Jardim Botanico as I wandered from Cemiterio de Agramonte towards the coast for sunset. Serendipity.

When I visited there was an amazing illuminated installation throughout the grounds—breathtaking after dark. And that photo above of the lily pool is real and not tweaked for color. Amazing… and it’s free.

Look Out Over The Rooftops From the Tower Of The Porto Cathedral

Perched on one of the highest spots in the city, the view from the top of the tower is pretty epic. Whether it’s rainy and foggy or blue skies with sunshine, it’s worth the trip. The blue azulejos (glazed tiles) inlaid amongst the gray stone halls of the cathedral are also beautiful in contrast. And entry is only €3. Go early on a weekday to beat the crowds if possible.

Getting Around Porto And Traveling Around Portugal

Porto is extremely walkable, assuming you can handle the hills and cobblestones that make up old town. (I suggest leaving your stilettos at home.) If you like a good wander-about, it’s perfect. But if that’s not your jam, Ubers are available, as are taxis and even scooter sharing from companies like Bird and Circ.

The metro and buses are also very clean, safe, and cheap. Want to check out the sunset at the Atlantic coast? Grab the 500 bus for only €2 one way and enjoy. Countrywide, the Comboios De Portugal trains are simple between big cities, and everything else is connected by multiple bus routes. All are usually very inexpensive for standard fairs.

Typical Spending Costs In Porto

I am definitely classified as a budget travel nerd and tend to target traveling internationally for an average of about €30-€60 a day, all in. Of course, you can travel cheaper than that, or the sky’s the limit. But I was able to average about €50-€60 a day in Porto, and that was with a couple of baller hostels and plenty of money spent on good food, tours, and attractions.

A bed in a 4-6 bed dorm runs about €15-€30. (Never stayed in a hostel? Read this!)   Fantastic  sit-down meals at most non-bougie restaurants run €7-€15+. And a glass of good port, table wine, or draft beer at those restaurants usually starts at about €2. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for the smaller joints.

Some Of My Favorite Hostels in Porto, Portugal

I stayed at three great…but very different…hostels while in Porto. The Passenger Hostel in Porto is  literally  in a historic train station and has over 100 beds. It’s been ranked one of the best hostels in Portugal, literally. The bathrooms look more like spas, and the top floor common space is epic.

The Gallery Hostel is what a hostel would look like if it were birthed from a hotel that hooked up with an art museum. Super-thick mattresses, spacious private bathrooms, and a restaurant in the bottom that will cook you a full breakfast each morning for about €4. 

The Porto Wine Hostel was like coming home. A small hostel with lovely owners on hand to chat and help with anything, and a fantastic wine bar in the heart. A smaller hostel with fewer high-end amenities than the others, but it makes up for any of that with heart and soul. I’m actually heading back there in a few days (as I write this) since I need some chill time in a happy place to recharge.

There are dozens of other hostels in Porto and hundreds throughout Portugal. You can filter by rating, location, amenities, cost, etc., here!

RELATED: The Best Hostels I’ve Stayed At…& Why They Make The List

Travel in Porto, Portugal: Travel Basics & Important Logistics

Here are some of the nitty-gritty details you need to know before you plan your trip and travel to Porto, Portugal.  Where Is Porto, Portugal?  The country of Portugal is located on the western coast of Europe. Well, more specifically it’s kind of tucked into the western coast of Spain. It’s one of the closest European countries to the US while only a couple hundred miles from Africa. Porto, Portugal is the largest northernmost city in Portugal, and is less than 100 miles south of the border of Spain. The country is only about 350 miles N/S and 100 miles E/W as the crow flies, depending on where you look.  Altitude & Relativity To The Equator:  Porto is right up against the Atlantic, essentially at sea level, and on a similar longitude line as the US. Expect summer heat and humidity and comfortable temps even in the cooler, shoulder travel seasons in Porto.  Portugal Travel Seasons:  Peak travel months in Portugal are generally June-September. The travel shoulder seasons are considered April-May and October-November. January-March is considered the low/slow season for travel to Portugal, but it’s still sunny, just a bit chilly for the beach or a dip in the ocean. Protip: If you’re traveling in the low season, check ahead to see if establishments close during that time!

International Airports in Portugal:  Lisbon, Porto, and Faro are the most frequently used, but there are also international airports on the islands of Madeira and Ponta Delgada.  Travel In Porto And Around Portugal:  Regional flights are plentiful and fairly inexpensive, but you can get to most places on the mainland cheaper and in a similar timeframe with the extensive train and bus options. Porto’s metro (subway) and bus lines are fantastic; clean and inexpensive. But you can walk most places, assuming you don’t mind some pretty wicked hills.

Plugging In, Spending Money, And Personal Concerns

Electrical Outlet/Plug Type:  Type F “Schuko,” so get an international adapter like this one. Currency:  The Euro (€) is used throughout Portugal, and in most bigger cities like Porto, businesses are happy to take credit cards for anything over €5. But carry cash just in case, since some of the best places are small, off-the-radar mom and pop spots, and they’ll sometimes need to take cash to avoid the excessive fees of accepting cards. Note, as of this writing, the exchange rate is about $1.25USD = €1.00, so while it’s close, that disparity can add up quickly if you’re not paying attention!

Tipping:  Tipping at restaurants is not  expected  throughout Portugal. But as usual, if you receive kind, great service, you should give a little extra. Personally, as a digital nomad exploring places where the USD goes further, I think it’s a great reason to give a little more regardless of what’s expected!

RELATED: UPDATED: 18 Safe Traveling Tips For Newbies Budget Allowance For Different Traveler Types:  Portugal is the  least expensive  country in western Europe. Budget travelers (like me) can live it up in hostels for $50-60/day, all-in. Obviously the budgets can go up from there depending on your style.  US Passport Holder Entry Time Limits:  Portugal is part of the Schengen Zone, a group of European countries that allow most US passport holders to visit the country for 90 days every rolling 180 days. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to look into long-term visas. Vaccinations:  You can find out  more here,  but there aren’t any out of the ordinary for US citizens.  Can I Drink The Tap Water In Portugal?  Yes. It may not be the absolute tastiest, but it’s definitely safe to drink.  LGBTQ+ Concerns:  Portugal is considered medium/high on the equality index. I can happily say that free love and expression were obvious with both locals and tourists as I traveled throughout Portugal. (rating by  https://www.equaldex.com/ ) 

Staying Safe While Traveling In Porto…Or Portugal In General

Honestly, there wasn’t a moment when I was wandering around Old Town Porto when I felt unsafe, whether day or night. Obviously, as you get away from the well-presented tourist center, that can change. That said, you should always take some necessary precautions when you’re traveling.

Explore with a friend or two if possible, and consider staying out of the dark corridors at night if you’re solo. Yes, they’re kind of magical at night, but just be cautious. Ubers are fairly available in Porto, as are Taxis, but they’re a little more expensive.

Keep an eye on your drinks if you’re into the nightlife, and let people know where you’re going if you’re concerned at all. Don’t buy drugs off the streets—yes, you will get asked when on most busy tourist corners at night. Essentially, use common sense and go with your gut if you feel unsafe or concerned.

I also suggest wearing clothing that allows you to zip or button up your wallet, phone, etc., as most of the time the biggest concern in bigger, tourist-heavy cities is pickpockets in dense areas. If someone else is an easier target than you, then your odds of trouble are reduced! (You don’t have to run faster than the bear…)

Share This Porto Travel Guide With A Friend!

If you’re wanderlusting about travel to Porto, or anywhere in Portugal, please share this article on social and with your travel ride-or-dies! Then connect with me over on Instagram or subscribe on YouTube, since I talk about a lot of these logistics and how things are going along the way!

Happy Travels. Cheers!

Travel Planning Tips

Figure out where you are going & how are you getting there… I suggest using at least 2 to 3 different travel search sites. Start with Skyscanner or Orbitz or Booking  … or whatever aggregator site you prefer. Then when you see what airlines to use, check their respective sites for better deals or rewards flights.

Figure out where you’re going to stay… If you’re interested in hostels, search Hostelworld or Hostelling International. For longer-term or more private digs, look at Airbnb , VRBO, or you can look for hotel rooms in the links from the search engines listed above. 

Get comprehensive travel insurance, or in the least, travel medical insurance if internationally… Especially with Covid not going anywhere, get covered. Start with an insurance aggregator like Insure My Trip, or with SafetyWing,   World Nomads , or another. Then decide what is important to you; trip cancellation, baggage coverage, medical, or all of the above. And get a yearly evacuation plan, since you’ll have to get home after your emergency! 

Need more resources? Click here!

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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

2. palácio da bolsa, 3. porto bridge climb, 4. igreja de são francisco, 5. cais da ribeira, 6. ponte dom luís i, 7. sé (cathedral), 8. vila nova de gaia, 9. museu nacional soares dos reis (soares dos reis national museum), 10. parque das virtudes, 11. world of discoveries, 12. igreja do carmo, 13. casa da música (music house), 14. fundação de serralves museu de arte contemporânea (contemporary art museum), 15. café majestic, 16. centro português de fotografia (portuguese center of photography), 17. porto tram city tour, 18. surfing in porto, 19. avenida dos aliados, where to stay in porto for sightseeing, frequently asked questions, what is the best way to get from porto's airport to the city center, what are the best shopping areas in porto, what are the best beaches near porto, what are the best day trips from porto, what are the other must-see destinations in northern portugal, map of tourist attractions in porto.

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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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: The best places to enjoy brunch in Porto Recommended: The best Airbnbs in Porto Recommended: The best hotels in Porto

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Best Porto attractions

1.  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!

2.  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.

3.  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.

4.  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.

5.  Serra do Pilar

• Historic buildings and sites
• 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.

6.  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.

7.  Porto Cathedral

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.  

8.  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.

9.  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.

10.  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.

11.  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.

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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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.

Porto Travel Planner:

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Book your room for free (no booking fees) and pay later at the hotel:

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Porto top 10, where to stay.

Porto   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sebastien Gaborit | Getty

23 Best Things To Do in Porto

Updated March 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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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

Explore Porto

Plan Your Trip to Porto: Best of Porto Tourism

Travel advice, essential porto.

How to do Porto in 3 days

7 best day trips from Porto

Browse collections

History at every turn.

Grab a glass

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Porto Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing porto.

lasersailor_8

Best of all was the full day boat trip up the Douro to Pinhao, this is a must for all visitors to Porto. A visit by bus to Braga with its fountains and to see 'Bom Jesus' cathedral, take the funicula if you want to save yourself a lot of walking as there is plenty of that once at the top. In Braga I had the best Francesinha ever, you visit Braga then you must have one of these.

Eating is one of the best parts of being in Porto so don't fill up at the first place you come to — learn to graze! Remember: The little appetizers that are brought to your table when you sit down are not free — if you are not interested don't touch them or ask your server to take them away.

Andre Parente

There are lots of nice guesthouses in Porto, operating within converted traditional houses. If you fancy a genuine local feeling, stay in one of these instead of a conventional hotel.

One could wander around for days without ever getting bored. Not to mention the fabulous eating and drinking places at very reasonable prices, the local wines and, of course, the Port wine. The local people are extremely friendly and willing to help.

Porto is a vibrant city of picturesque streets, grey buildings, honest smiles, and a romantic aura. In three days it’s possible to visit and see its main and most obvious attractions, not only in the historic center, which is listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO, but also some of the more modern neighborhoods.

Porto is, to many, the most romantic city in Portugal. The river Douro, endless ancient churches, lovely green spaces, elegant eateries, quirky landmarks, and the inescapable seduction of Port wine all come together in one easy-to-love town.

What is the best way to get there?

The city is served by Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto International Airport).

Porto has two train stations: the ornately decorated Sao Bento station for local trains and Campanha station, from which trains to the rest of the country and other European destinations depart.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting from overseas, see if you need a visa using the following  website .

When is the best time to visit?

Porto generally experiences a moderate climate that provides optimum conditions for exploring the city on foot. The best months to visit are May, June and September, when skies are typically dry and blue, and the crowds associated with summer are less-concentrated. Expect average daily temperatures those times of year to be highs around 74° F (23° C) and lows of 58° F (14° C).

For more information on Porto’s weather and when to go, check out some tips  here .

Porto’s metro features six lines that run from around 6 a.m. until 1 a.m. There are more than 80 metro lines throughout the city, which are marked with large blue letter Ms.

See timetables  here .

Throughout Porto and the surrounding regions of Vila Nova de Gaia and Vila do Conde, you’ll find more than 75 STNP bus routes. Porto Cards and Andante can be topped up with cash and purchased at most bus stops.

tram and funicular

There are three tram routes in Porto; Line 1, 18, and 22. Line 1 runs along the west coast and the Douro River, making for a truly scenic journey. There’s also a single track funicular that runs from Porto’s Ribeira area to Batalha Square.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Western European Standard Time (GMT).

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in France is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The standard voltage in Porto is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. There are two associated plug types: type C, with two round pins, and type F, which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side.

What is the currency?

Euro (EUR).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, is it easy to find a bank, how much do i tip.

Tipping isn’t customary in Porto and service isn’t generally added to the bill at restaurants and bars. However, if you’ve had particularly good service then a tip is always appreciated.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Try to speak the language

Learn a few basic phrases as a sign of respect. Locals will often switch to English for your ease and comfort but they appreciate the effort.

Public Transport

Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.

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• Porto 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

23 Top Attractions & Things to do in Porto

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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Best Attractions in Porto

Porto, as the second largest city in Portugal, has a wealth of things to do and see . Here are some of the main attractions and museums in the city.

Porto Cathedral Built in the highest part of the city, in the Batalha district, the Sé Cathedral is the most important religious monument in Porto.

Clérigos Church and Clérigos Tower The Clérigos Church and its bell tower are two of the most emblematic monuments in Porto. Clérigos Tower offers the best view over the city.

Cellars and vineyards If you visit Porto, one of its most popular attractions is to visit some of its wineries and vineyards. Discover which are the most famous wineries.

Museu do Carro Eléctrico The Tram Museum in Porto (Museu do Carro Eléctrico) features interesting photos, original uniforms, restored machinery and various historic trams.

Ribeira Located on the riverbank of the Douro, Ribeira is one of the most beautiful and liveliest districts in Porto’s historic centre. Discover the things to do.

Mercado do Bolhão Inaugurated in 1914, the Mercado do Bolhão (Bolhão Market) is located in the city center and holds the essence of the city. A must-see.

São Bento Railway Station The São Bento Railway Station was opened to the public in 1916 on the site of a former Benedictine monastery. It is one of the most beautiful stations.

Palácio da Bolsa Palácio da Bolsa is one of the most beautiful buildings in Porto. It is worth doing one of its guided tours to visit this impressive edifice.

Livraria Lello & Irmão Considered the most beautiful library in Europe and one of the most beautiful in the world, Lello & Irmão Bookshop is a definite must-see.

Casa da Música The Casa da Música is a concert hall built in 1999, so it could be included in the various projects presented for the European Capital of Culture.

Tourist attractions

Igreja de São Francisco Igreja de São Francisco (Church of São Francisco) in Porto is one of the most important temples in Porto, along with Clérigos Church.

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal The Jardins do Palácio de Cristal are in the upper part of Porto and offer stunning views of the city and the Douro.

Igreja dos Grilos The Igreja dos Grilos in Porto was founded in 1577 and is a convent and church. It also houses the Sacred Art and Archaeology Museum.

Sea Life Porto Sea Life Porto is one of the best aquariums in Europe, with over 3,000 different species. Learn about its price and location.

Casa do Infante First established in 1325, the Casa do Infante (Prince’s House) was given this name after Prince Henry the Navigator was born here in 1394.

Museums and galleries

Soares dos Reis National Museum The Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis is the oldest public museum in Portugal and the most famous in Porto. Discover this impressive museum.

Serralves Foundation The Serralves Foundation is a renowned cultural institution in Porto with a beautiful garden. It houses the Museum of Contemporary Art, and more.

Military Museum The Military Museum of Porto features a collection of arms, uniforms, military equipment and most importantly, thousands of miniatures.

Romantic Museum The Romantic Museum in Porto (Museu Romântico da Quinta da Macieirinha) is where Charles Albert of Sardinia died in exile.

Casa Museu Guerra Junqueiro This eighteenth century Baroque styled palace belonged to Guerra Junqueiro, Portuguese writer and poet and has been transformed into a museum.

Portuguese Centre of Photography The Portuguese Centre of Photography can be found in what was once a prison, and is one of the most interesting cultural experiences in the city.

Sandeman Cellars Founded in 1790, Sandeman is not only famous for its quality wines but also thanks to the mysterious man on its logo.

Ramos Pinto Port Winery Established by Adriano Ramos Pinto in 1880, the Ramos Pinto Cellar is one of the most renowned wineries in the city. Take a wine tour and discover its brand legacy.

Ferreira Cellars Established in an old convent, Ferreira is one of the most memorable cellars in Porto. The wine cellars are over 300 years old.

Cálem Cellars Producing quality wine since 1859, Cálem Cellars is still one of the main wineries in Porto with excellent tours and wine tastings.

2 Day Itinerary Porto

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Discover the 10 unmissable sights you can't miss during your holidays in Porto. including the Mercado do Bolhao, la Librería Lello e Irmão and the famous Cathedral.

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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

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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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Best Must-See Attractions in Porto, Portugal

Explore the top must-see attractions in porto.

Nestled along the Douro River in Northern Portugal , the enchanting city of Porto beckons with its scenic waterfront, quaint cobblestone streets, and vibrant, colorful architecture. As one of Europe's premier tourist destinations , Porto offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern allure. Ready to discover this spectacular city? Let Portugal Getaways be your guide! We offer the best travel deals and packages to make your visit to Porto, one of the world's most beautiful and special cities, both effortless and memorable.

Our team of seasoned travel experts is here to help you select the ideal Porto travel package , ensuring a hassle-free planning and booking experience for your daily activities. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the relaxation and beauty of Porto, Portugal's second-largest city . Porto is a city that caters to all, boasting a rich tapestry of historical sites and contemporary attractions.

Continue reading for our Portugal Getaways expert guide to the must-visit sights in Porto, Portugal.

1. Discover the Majestic Beauty of Igreja da Lapa in Porto

Located in Porto, Portugal, Igreja da Lapa is a stunning Catholic Church with a unique history and many beautiful features. The original structure of Igreja da Lapa in Porto was built in the 16th century, although the current exterior dates back to reconstruction work performed in 1755. 

The facade of Igreja da Lapa in Porto is mostly covered in pink and white marble and features delicate sculptures and reliefs that draw viewers into its astounding beauty. Once inside the iconic Porto church, visitors to Igreja da Lapa can admire its intricately carved wooden panels on the ceiling, as well as its frescoes which were painted by Joaquim Rafael during the late 18th century. Additionally, Igreja da Lapa also houses an impressive baroque organ that has been used to play classical music concerts in Porto for locals and visitors alike to enjoy since the 19th century, making it an ideal destination for music lovers!

Igreja da Lapa in Porto is not only a beautiful sight and attraction for tourists and locals to appreciate aesthetically, but the church has also been a key religious center for the Porto population for centuries. As such, its presence in Porto City continues to be strongly felt on special occasions, providing Porto locals with a deeply meaningful place to come together in celebration of their faith and prayer.

During certain holidays, like Easter, Igreja da Lapa often hosts mass or other Porto religious events, providing an excellent opportunity to experience something truly special in Porto that shouldn't be missed! Visitors to Porto and Igreja da Lapa come here from all around the world to witness firsthand some of the city's rich cultural and religious heritage, which is an added layer that makes an experience at Igreja da Lapa even more special. So, during your next Portugal holiday, be sure to stop at Igreja da Lapa in Porto to experience its majestic grandeur in person!

2. Experience the Magnificence of Cais da Ribeira in Porto

Another best attraction in Porto, Portugal that must be added to your Portugal itinerary is a visit to Cais da Ribeira . Visiting Cais da Ribeira is an experience like no other. Keep reading and you will find out exactly why!

This sprawling harbor district is located along the Porto area's iconic Douro River, affording visitors breathtaking views of the famed Dom Luis I Bridge, as well as myriad boats and ships that are always navigating their way down and up the river. The Cais da Ribeira has been a bustling hub of port activity for many years, but it has also become an increasingly popular destination among tourists in recent years. 

So what can you expect as you visit Cais da Ribeira in Porto? Plenty! While here, Cais da Ribeira visitors can explore its narrow alleyways filled with local eateries and traditional Portuguese cuisine. Even better, as the weather is so often quite fine in Porto, numerous Cais da Ribeira cafes open up to lovely outdoor seating areas offering panoramic views of the Douro River and the stunning architecture that adorns its banks.

Porto's Cais da Ribeira district was once a vibrant fishing port. However, it has since been transformed into a lively center of culture and commerce, making it a must-visit spot during a Porto trip. A stroll down the Cais da Ribeira riverfront promenade reveals numerous historic monuments and buildings, such as the acclaimed Palácio da Bolsa which stands proudly among its lovely surroundings. Nearby, visitors to Cais da Ribeira can find plenty of museums located in traditional houses, providing yet another opportunity to learn about the fascinating and rich local culture and history.

There is also a lively port wine cellar located in Cais da Ribeira – a perfect spot for those Porto area visitors hoping to sample some of the region's finest port wines. Of course, no visit to Cais da Ribeira would be complete without enjoying a magnificent sunset over the Douro River. There's just something magical about watching as the sun sets against the backdrop of this picturesque landscape that will surely create an unforgettable memory!

3. Take a Trip to Mercado Bolhão and Explore One of Porto's Most Iconic Landmarks

Mercado Bolhão, an iconic landmark in Porto, Portugal, stands as a vibrant symbol of the city's rich history and lively culture. Established in 1839, this bustling indoor market attracts both locals and tourists, offering a dynamic shopping experience. As you wander through the market, you'll encounter a plethora of stalls showcasing fresh fruits, vegetables, cured meats, spices, and an array of the region's famed Porto wines.

The market's atmosphere is electric, with people from diverse backgrounds mingling in the lively setting, offering an authentic glimpse into Porto's local life. The upper level of Mercado Bolhão further enriches the experience, featuring traditional stands manned by local vendors, ranging from fishmongers to florists. Additionally, the market serves as a culinary haven, with stalls offering delicious Portuguese snacks like pastries and codfish cakes, typical of Porto's gastronomic delights. If you're exploring Porto, Mercado Bolhão is a must-visit destination. It's more than just a market; it's an immersive journey into one of Porto's oldest neighborhoods, promising every visitor an unforgettable experience of the city's essence.

4. Take a Ride on Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto's Cable Cars

Ready to have your heart sent soaring as you fall in love with Porto, Portugal? Then you should check out the cable car adventures available in Porto city and the surrounding Porto area! Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto are two Portugal destinations that offer breathtaking cable car rides that are certainly among the best attractions to see in Porto and the surrounding Porto area. Let's talk a little bit about how each is amazing in its unique way, which means you can't lose whichever route you choose. In fact, why not choose to take both cable car adventures?!

Historic Vila Nova de Gaia is home to some of the most stunning scenery in all of Portugal, while a cable car ride over Porto offers amazing views of its iconic bridges and bustling city life buzzing below. The cable cars in both destinations take passengers soaring sky-high and provide an unparalleled experience of beauty and excitement as they float through the air. From romantic cable car rides that have you gliding over the iconic Douro River in Porto to the adventurous thrills afforded by a cable car ride soaring over ancient buildings and churches, there's something for everyone to enjoy on these thrilling cable car rides. With magnificent views of both cities promised at any point during the cable car journey, a ride on Vila Nova de Gaia or Porto's cable cars is bound to be enjoyable and unforgettable! The only question remains now: Who will you bring with you to experience this incredible best attraction in Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia? And which cable car journey will you try first?!

5. Experience the Grandeur of São Bento Railway Station in Porto

Yet another best attraction to see in Porto is São Bento Railway Station. Located in the heart of the city, São Bento Railway Station in Porto, Portugal is a stunning example of history and beauty merged into one gloriously stunning site. The centrally located historical monument was built in Porto back in 1916 and offers Portugal travelers a unique and awe-inspiring experience thanks to its grand architecture and intricate design. Embellished with 20,000 azulejos — traditional Portuguese tile art — it's no wonder why São Bento Railway Station has earned its place as one of the most visited places for Porto tourism and the best attractions in Porto. 

Once inside São Bento Railway Station, guests can explore its impressive modern amenities, including several cafes and restaurants, as well as admire the popular Porto station's traditional artifacts, like old trains and clocks. From morning to night, São Bento Railway Station visitors can take delight in the ornate interior of this facility, while also learning about its fascinating past. No matter what way you look at it, one thing is for sure: São Bento Railway Station in Porto is sure to be an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits!

6. Exploring Liberty Square in Porto

Liberty Square in Porto, Portugal is a picturesque example of 19th-century architecture that simply must be seen firsthand to be truly appreciated. Located in the center of Porto City, the stunning public square is surrounded by vibrant shops and restaurants, so there is always an air of excitement and lively energy to greet visitors as they discover all of its charms. The popular Porto square features a statue of Dom Pedro IV riding a horse. It's a beloved and always hopping spot not just for visitors, but for locals too, who regularly come to stroll around or sit on the benches enjoying their free time in the heart of Porto city.

On Saturdays in Liberty Square, you will be delighted to find street vendors selling books, flowers, and traditional goods, while Sundays often bring people together for a lively celebration of local music! There is just nothing like witnessing local musicians playing traditional tunes as they pass through Liberty Square in Porto! With its colorful history and stunning architecture, visiting the charming Liberty Square in Porto is not only among our picks as the best attraction to see in Porto, but it also gives tourists a unique and up-close glimpse into Porto's colorful culture and history – the true reason it is such an enchanting place to explore!

7. Explore the Contemporary Art at the Serralves Museum in Porto, Portugal

The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art in Porto, Portugal is another best attraction to see in Porto, as it is one of the most impressive and architecturally interesting modern art galleries in all of Europe. The fact that the popular museum is located in the vibrant city of Porto, Portugal only adds to its appeal.

So, what makes this place in Porto so special? The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art really stands out thanks to its contemporary architecture, which was designed by renowned Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira and completed in 1999. The museum houses an extensive collection of works by artists from all over the world, ranging from European pieces to artwork created by American, Japanese, and African masters. The main building at Serralves Museum in Porto has three floors that are linked together by two cylindrical towers with transparent glass walls. Once inside these hallowed walls, Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art visitors will find not only impressive exhibition spaces, but also a library, auditorium, café, and even a shop selling books related to modern art. 

Areas visitors can enjoy outside the museum include lush botanical gardens where visitors can wander around for hours or even days! In addition to featuring a permanent collection of works by many famous international artists, there are also regular temporary exhibitions at Serralves Museum that rotate and focus on both established and up-and-coming talents. For those visitors to Portugal interested in gaining a more comprehensive understanding of modern art movements like Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art during their Porto visit, a stop at Serralves Museum should be high on your itinerary!

8. Take a Stroll Across the Dom Luis I Bridge in Porto, Portugal

The Ponte de Dom Luis I (Dom Luis I Bridge) is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Portuguese city of Porto. Spanning over the iconic Douro River and connecting the two Portuguese cities of Gaia and Porto, this beautiful bridge was designed by esteemed engineer Théophile Seyrig and opened to the public in 1886. The famed Porto bridge consists of a multipurpose upper deck, complete with an outer gallery for pedestrians, and an ornate lower deck for the metro railway line. The bridge design perfectly combines grandeur with practicality and affords Porto visitors a unique view of both sides of the Douro River. 

From its height of 45 meters above the river's surface, the stunning Dom Luis I Bridge is not only beautiful, but it is also incredibly functional: It has provided a vital transport link between the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia for over 130 years. Visitors taking a stroll across its impressive span will be able to not only admire its grandiose scale but also witness breathtaking views of both banks and iconic landmarks including the Clerigos Tower and Palácio da Bolsa. 

The Dom Luis I Bridge's sheer presence is enough to captivate everyone's attention – whether you are an avid photographer or just looking for an interesting spot in town where you can relax and take in the sunset – which is why it earned its spot among our best attractions to see in Porto, Portugal. So, don't forget to add it to your itinerary when you are next in the Porto area!

9. Be Enlightened About the Porto Area's Unique Culture at Clérigos Tower and Church

Located in the heart of Porto, Portugal, the Clérigos Tower is an iconic landmark and the tallest tower in the city. Built between 1732 and 1763 by Nicolau Nasoni, this spectacular building stands at an impressive height of 75 meters.

The Clérigos Tower is part of a larger complex that consists of a church and museum filled with artifacts related to Portuguese history. The elegant Baroque-style Clérigos Church features neoclassical decor and sculptures, most notably the golden statue of St. Peter. Inside the bell tower, visitors will find one of Portugal’s oldest bells and can take advantage of its observation deck which affords some of Porto’s best and most stunning views. A visit here for these epic views alone would be enough to earn Clérigos Tower and Church its spot on our Porto best attractions list!

But the surrounding area around Clérigos Tower and Church in Porto is also worth mentioning, as it is home to many local restaurants offering mouthwatering traditional Portuguese cuisine, as well as bustling bars that are popular with both locals and tourists alike. Suffice it to say, a visit to Clerigos Tower and Church promises a unique cultural experience that is sure to be enjoyed by all who visit this fabulous second-largest city in Portugal.

Pack Your Bags: Porto Is Waiting!

As you can see, Porto is an amazing destination for tourists who want to experience the unique charms of Portugal on a grand and incredible scale. From its striking architecture to its glorious beaches, there's just something magical about Porto City that offers a little (actually, a lot!) for every type of traveler to enjoy and adore.

Simply put: Porto has it all! With a host of sights and activities available to visitors, there's something ideally suited for every taste and budget in this magical city nestled on the Douro River estuary.

Are you already in love with Portugal? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate Portuguese adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Portuguese experts so that you don't need to worry about any details - just enjoy your trip!

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48 hours in Porto: a two-day suggested tour and itinerary

Two days is the perfect length of time in which to discover Porto.

A 48-hour stay will provide ample time for you to experience the very best of Porto, from its rich history and port wine heritage through to its blossoming art scene and vibrant nightlife.

Your first day in Porto would typically follow the classic sightseeing tour of the city, which explores the charming and historic sights of the Ribeira and Sé neighbourhoods. The latter part of the day would be spent taking in the grand side of Porto, in the Baixa and Cordoaria neighbourhoods.

The second day offers time for you to discover the more authentic side of Porto. This could include visiting the delightful Foz district, shopping in Bolhão market, taking a relaxing boat tour or admiring the art of the Serralves museum. Often, part of the second day is spent in Vila Nova de Gaia, discovering more about port wine and enjoying a tour of a port cellar and a tasting session. In the summer, you may even wish to visit the sandy beaches of Foz or Matosinhos.

Porto is a fantastic city to visit in two days, making it an ideal location for a weekend city break or short trip. If you are lucky enough to have a longer holiday to Portugal, you should plan to spend at least two days in Porto. This article will provide a suggested itinerary and tour for two days in Porto and will help you get the most out of your time in this amazing city. Related articles: Introduction to Porto – Top 10 Porto

An overview for two days in Porto

Day 1 morning: Discover the historic centre of Porto by exploring the labyrinthine alleyways of the Ribeira and Sé neighbourhoods. Marvel at the iconic Sé Cathedral, the beautiful azulejo tilework of São Bento train station, and wander along the pretty waterfront of the Ribeira neighbourhood.

The colourful houses of the Ribeira lining the banks of the Douro River.

Day 1 afternoon: Explore the grand plazas and equally impressive sights of the Cordoaria and Baixa neighbourhoods, which contain the Igreja do Carmo and Livraria Lello bookshop, as well as the grand Câmara Municipal.

The beautiful Azulejo tile paintings on the Igreja do Carmo church.

Day 1 Evening: Cross the Ponte Luís I bridge and watch the sunset from the Jardim do Morro, before having dinner in one of the restaurants on the Ribeira waterfront. To continue the night, head to the sociable bars around the Rua da Galeria de Paris.

A romantic meal overlooking the Ponte Luís I bridge.

Day 2 morning: Explore Vila Nova de Gaia, the city on the southern bank of the Douro River, famous for its port wine cellars. Join a guided tour through one of the historic port cellars, followed by a short boat tour along the river.

The Port cellars, historic buildings and cable car of Vila Nova de Gaia’s waterfront.

Day 2 afternoon: Ride the delightful tram to the Foz district and stroll along the waterfront promenade. End the day watching the sunset from one of the beach bars that overlook the Atlantic Ocean.

The Pérgola da Foz, overlooking the Praia do Molhe beach and the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 2 afternoon (alternative 1): Visit the traditional Bolhão market and then wander the bustling shopping streets that surround it. Later, head to the Mercado Bom Sucesso, a lively food market, for dinner.

The traditional market stalls of the Mercado do Bolhão.

Day 2 afternoon (alternative 2): Admire the contemporary art of the Serralves museum or learn more about Porto’s history at the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis, before taking a relaxing walk through the Palácio de Cristal gardens.

The Art-Deco exhibit hall of the Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves

Day 2 Evening: Spend the evening at the waterfront of Vila Nova de Gaia, listening to street musicians and admiring the view over Porto while savouring a port wine.

The interactive map below shows the highlights of this two-day tour of Porto and includes a walking tour for each of the days. ( Note: zoom out to see all of the points)

Day1 (green) 1) São Bento Train Station 2) Sé Cathedral 3) Ribeira neighbourhood 4) Igreja de São Francisco 5) Palácio da Bolsa 6) Rua das Flores 7) Torre dos Clérigos 8) Igreja do Carmo 9) Livraria Lello 10) Avenida dos Aliados 11) Ponte Luís I bridge 12) Jardim do Morro viewpoint Day 2 morning (yellow) 13) Caves Cálem 14) Caves Sandeman 15) Caves Ferreira 16) Half Rabbit (art) 17) WOW Porto Day 2 afternoon (blue) 18) Jardim do Passeio Alegre 19) Forte de São João Baptista 20) Pérgola da Foz 21) Mercado do Bolhão 22) Mercado Bom Sucesso 23) Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves 24) Museum Soares dos Reis 25) Palácio de Cristal gardens 26) Dragão Stadium (FC Porto)

The following section provides a detailed description of the 2-day tour.

Useful guides for your two days in Porto

The following are links to our specific guides, which may be of further use to you: A walking tour of Porto (for your first day in Porto) Which port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia should you visit? (for your second day) A tour of the Foz district (for your second day) Porto’s best beaches (for your second day and in the summer)

Have you booked your hotel yet?

There is very high demand for accommodation during the peak season, so we’d advise that you book your hotel rooms now before they sell out. To check current prices and availability, enter your holiday dates in the search box below:

The following section details this two-day tour in greater depth.

48 hours Porto morning day 1 – The Baixa district

The Baixa district is the recommended location to begin a tour of Porto, as it contains many of the city’s iconic tourist attractions. The district includes the magnificent Praça da Liberdade, the bustling shopping streets of Rua de Santa Catarina and the lively nightlife area surrounding the university.

Porto City hall dates from the 1920s but the Neo-gothic styling makes it appear much older

The Torre dos Clérigos (constructed in 1750) is the tallest building of the historic centre of Porto

Highlights of the Baixa district include: • The panoramic view from the top of the Torre dos Clérigos (240 steps to the top) • The neo-Gothic architecture of the Câmara Municipal do Porto (city hall) • The beautiful azulejos tiles covering the exterior of the Igreja do Carmo • The traditional market of Mercado do Bolhão • The Livraria Lello bookshop, an inspiration for the Harry Potter books • A coffee in the Café Majestic, which is regarded as one world’s most decorative cafes • The Jardim da Cordoaria • São Bento Railway Station and its wonderful tile paintings • The Rua das Flores a charming shopping street filled with independent shops • The “Fons Vitae” painting, exhibited in the Museu da Misericórdia do Porto (MMIPO museum)

The much-photographed Igreja do Carmo is covered with detailed tile paintings

The Fons Vitae is one of Portugal’s most striking 16th-century paintings

For lunch, head to a café serving a Francesinha, the traditional dish of Porto. This incredibly filling meal, is a meat-filled sandwich, smothered with melted cheese, and served in a rich sauce of beer and tomato – delicious and ideal when sightseeing!

Day 1 afternoon – The historic side of Porto

For the afternoon it is recommended to explore the two oldest districts of Porto; the Se and Ribeira districts.

The Se district was the religious centre of the city, and is centred around the ancient Se cathedral and bishop’s palace (Paço Episcopal). The district covers one of the highest hills of the city and provides wonderful views over Porto. Highlights of the Se district include: • The Gothic Se cathedral • The extravagant interior of the Igreja de Santa Clara do Porto • The remains of the city walls • Views of the Ponte Luís I (from the top deck)

The gothic but austere Se cathedral

The 14th-century Muralha Fernandina city walls once encircled the historic centre of Porto

Historically, the Ribeira district was the docks and trading centre of Porto, and today is one of the most characterful sections of the city. The district extends along the banks of the Douro River, and the labyrinth of narrow alleys follow the medieval layout of the city. Highlights of the Ribeira districts are: • The Praça da Ribeira with its numerous restaurants and bars • The maze of alleys and back streets, which originate from the middle ages • The extravagant gold gilding of the Igreja de São Francisco church • The Neoclassical Palácio da Bolsa, constructed in the 19th century as the stock exchange for the city

The colourful houses of the Ribeira district, many of which were constructed during the 15th century

The Ribeira district was the old port of the city and overlooks the Ponte Luís I bridge

Additional activity for day 1 – A Douro River cruise

An additional activity for the day is a short boat cruise along the Douro River, and this is ideal after a long day of sightseeing. These boat tours typical last for around an hour, and provide a riverside view of the city by passing beneath the six bridge of Porto. Insight: The six bridges of Porto are (from east to west): Freixo, São João, Maria Pia, Infante D. Henrique, Luís I and Arrábida

For the evening it is suggested to have a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants in the Ribeira district and then spend the night in one of the bars of the district. For live music and late-night revelries head to, the Hard Club, housed in the former Mercado Ferreira Borges market.

Day 2 in Porto, morning - Vila Nova de Gaia and the Port lodges

The city of Vila Nova de Gaia lies on the southern banks of the Douro River and is the traditional home of Port wine. The grapes are grown, harvested and pressed much further up the Douro River and the finished product is stored and matured in the vast cellars (referred to as lodges) that line the banks of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Insight: the barrels of Port were traditional transport from the vineyards to Porto by boat, that is why the port cellars are all close to the river.

All of the major Port producers (Graham's, Sandeman, Taylor, Warre and Ferreira) are within walking distance of each other, and their lodges are open for tours and port tasting. The tours and tastings are surprisingly inexpensive and are conducted in multiple languages throughout the day (popular tours should be booked in advance).

There is always a social and enjoyable atmosphere along the waterfront in Vila Nova de Gaia (the Avenida de Diogo Leite), and it is a great place to hang out on a hot summer’s day.

The waterfront of Vila Nova de Gaia and the Port lodges

The “Half-Rabbit” urban art is one of the more unique sights in Vila Nova de Gaia

While in Vila Nova de Gaia, we suggest that you visit the urban art rabbit (called the Half-Rabbit, and on the side of building close to the Igreja de Santa Marinha) and the Estaleiro do Rabelo, the traditional shipyards of the Barcos Rabelos boats.

From the riverside there is a cable car that transports visitors up to the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, a circular church and monastery, which also offers amazing views of the Douro river.

Porto Day 2 Afternoon - The Foz district or the Palacio de Cristal

The Foz district is situated on the mouth of the Douro River to the Atlantic Ocean. This charming district is surprisingly little visited by tourists, and has a pleasant, calm ambience. For tourists, there are two distinct areas to the Foz district; the riverside section and the area along the coastline.

The riverside area of Foz offers traditional fishing harbours, tranquil parks and grand Portuguese villas, and there is an enjoyable walking route along the banks of the Douro River. The coastline section of the Foz district faces the Atlantic Ocean and is formed of small beaches and rocky headlands, which extend all the way to the town of Matosinhos. The Foz district can be reached by either catching the number 1 tram, which departs from the Igreja de São Francisco, or the 500 bus. Related articles: The Foz district

The Pergola da Foz is one of Porto’s most romantic places to watch the sunset

For the adventurous: Check out “Porto Bridge Climb”, which provides a climbing tour on the arch of the Arrábida Bridge to a height of 65m above the river, their website is: www.portobridgeclimb.com

For a more cultural afternoon consider visiting the Palacio de Cristal park and the museums of Soares dos Reis and Quinta da Macieirinha. Soares dos Reis exhibits part of the national collection of art and sculptures, and is housed in the ornate Carrancas Palace.

The Quinta da Macieirinha mansion was where the exiled Italian King, Carlo Alberto, spent his final months before dying in 1849. The Quinta da Macieirinha museum has been restored to how it would have appeared during his stay. Both museums are close to the peaceful gardens of the Palacio de Cristal park.

The Soares dos Reis museum is housed in one of the grandest buildings of Porto

Only the brave should climb to the top of the Ponte da Arrábida bridge

Day 2 Porto - Evening and Night

For the final evening in Porto it is suggested to have a big night out in the bars and clubs along the Rua Galeria de Paris. This street is affectionately known as “bar street” and is close to the university.

Our most popular guides to Porto and northern Portugal

Home page and introduction to Porto

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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?

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When best to visit Porto and weather guide

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Discover the entire Porto region in 1 week

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Itinerary for two fully packed days in Porto

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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
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Porto Beaches

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Other guides

• How long to stay in Porto?
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Viana Do Castelo

• Day trip to Viana
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• Porto Day Trips
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Matosinhos intro Matosinhos beach

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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
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• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
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• Castelo dos Mouros
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• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
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• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
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South Portugal

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• Tavira guide
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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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9 Best Places to Live in Portugal, According to Local Real Estate Experts

Home to beautiful sun-drenched beaches, quaint fishing villages, and bustling cities, Portugal's allure among expats is undeniable.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

In the past decade, Portugal has transformed into one of the most popular European countries for expats — be it digital nomads or retirees — and it's easy to see why. The country has it all: nearly year-round sunny weather; golden-sand beaches ; warm and friendly locals; history that spans hundreds of years; fresh seafood; awe-inspiring landscapes that span rolling hills and vineyards, lush mountains, and scenic valleys; and a laid-back lifestyle.

Even better, that lifestyle comes at a more affordable price than any other western European country. Portugal is also an easy direct flight away from the East Coast, and it's connected to many other global destinations thanks to its three international airports: Lisbon, Porto to the north, and Faro to the south.

So, where in Portugal should you settle down? From charming fishing villages to vibrant Lisbon and Porto, we asked local real estate agents for the top markets and places to live in Portugal.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's enchanting capital is a sight to behold — set on seven hills (just like Rome), Lisbon is a treasure trove of historic and modern districts, many with waterfront views, historic landmarks, buildings clad in traditional azulejo ceramic tiles, small neighborhood restaurants, and coffee shops filled with the sweet smell of freshly baked pasteis de nata , Portugal's famous custard tarts.

"Depending on the desired lifestyle, there are neighborhoods like Campo de Ourique and Avenidas Novas where life can be lived 'entirely on foot' without the need for a car. If you're looking for a more sophisticated area, nothing beats the axis of Avenida da Liberdade, Chiado, Príncipe Real, and Amoreiras. On the other hand, if you prefer a more sporty lifestyle, the areas along the Tagus River — namely, Belém, Alcântara, 24 de Julho, Beato, and Parque das Nações — are ideal," Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate , told Travel + Leisure.

However, he explained, due to the high demand and low supply growth, real estate prices constantly increase, especially in central areas.

StudioBarcelona/Getty Images

This former quaint fishing village north of Lisbon is a luxury home destination that doesn't lack character.

"With cultural attractions such as the historic center and the Citadel Palace, along with recreational amenities like stunning beaches and the renowned Boca do Inferno, Cascais offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury," Marta Bettencourt, a broker with Modern , said. The area is especially popular with families because it's home to excellent international schools and many kid-friendly facilities and parks.

Cláudia Ferreira of Casaiberia explained that Estoril, Birre, and Quinta da Marinha are some of the most popular districts for single-family homes, while Monte Estoril, downtown Cascais, and Gandarinha are favored for apartments.

studiof22byricardorocha/Getty Images

Dubbed the " Hamptons of Portugal ," Comporta is a hidden gem, just an hour south of Lisbon and home to about 1,500 residents. 

"The history of the Herdade of Comporta dates to 1836, with the rice fields being an integral part of its landscape, but Comporta has recently gained renown for its breathtaking natural surroundings, including white-sand beaches, dunes, and expansive rice fields," Modern broker Filipa Melo explained. 

Stylish, modern villas, residences in new developments, and historic homes are all options for homebuyers here. And just like in any other beachfront location, the closer the home is to the ocean, the higher its price tag.

"The allure of Comporta lies in its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a magnet for individuals searching for a peaceful and exclusive retreat," Melo added. "The area offers upscale amenities, high-end restaurants, and boutique shops, further contributing to its reputation as a destination for those seeking an upscale and discreet escape."

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's second-largest city is known for its scenic riverfront dotted with wine-tasting rooms and vibrantly hued houses, but to its residents, the city is also a bustling economic hub with a burgeoning tech and startup economy.

"Living in Porto is embracing a distinctive blend of tranquility and liveliness. The city, maintaining a unique essence, offers a high quality of life, outstanding education, and a harmonious work-life balance," Lopes explained, also noting that Porto's winters tend to be cold and rainy, which "might challenge those unaccustomed to such climates."

According to him, a couple without children would need about €2,000 per month to live comfortably in Porto. 

In terms of neighborhoods, he recommended Bonfim and Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos for families and Foz do Douro and Cedofeita for those seeking a lively setting with bars, restaurants, and markets.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

You've probably seen photos of Sintra's Pena Palace, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. But this historic mountain town, full of sprawling villas and royal estates, also offers a quaint and picturesque home setting just about 30 minutes from bustling Lisbon.

"[Sintra] is divided into two facets: the historic old town — a tourist magnet — and the new town, pulsating with activity," said Lopes. "In the new town, modern conveniences thrive, including shopping malls, multinational companies, and leisure centers."

Another draw? The destination has a mild climate, so those not fond of Lisbon's hot summers will find solace here. Lopes added that Sintra has become a haven for remote workers "seeking a peaceful escape." Real estate prices hover around 2,258 euros per square meter (prices in Cascais, for example, are almost double that).

Silver Coast

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North of Lisbon, this breathtaking area, which stretches from Aveiro to Torres Vedras, is emerging as a more affordable, under-the-radar destination for expats. While the Atlantic waters here are much chillier, the region offers a wealth of natural, historic, and cultural attractions (including many UNESCO-listed sites) that keep its residents active.

"Choosing to reside on the Silver Coast is a fantastic decision for expats in Portugal, especially those seeking seaside views, more affordable living, and a peaceful environment,"said Lopes. "Small cities, friendly locals, and an undiscovered expat community create a unique atmosphere."

Aveiro, also known as the "Venice of Portugal" for its canals, is chock-full of architectural gems and art nouveau buildings. White-sand beaches frequented by surfers and fresh seafood add to Aveiro's allure among expats. Further south, Mira is home to one of Portugal's best beaches, Praia de Mira, according to Lopes.

Algarve Villages

Eloi_Omella/Getty Images

The notoriously scenic south of Portugal is home to many cities, towns, and villages, along with a vibrant, English-speaking expat community (especially retirees) hailing from the U.K. and U.S.

Alvor, for example, a former fishing village that has kept much of its character and historic charm, has a bustling main drag and a wide, white-sand beach that fills up with visitors come summer.

Just about seven miles east, Ferragudo has narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere, Lopes explained. "It has managed to maintain a more authentic and less touristy [vibe], and has been seen as the Algarve's little treasure," he added. 

Similarly, Carvoeiro and Lagoa attract those seeking small-town living and a quieter lifestyle.

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Algarve's capital blends city amenities like an international airport, a university, administrative institutions, and retail destinations with the region's signature laid-back lifestyle.

"Faro offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions. It has a charming old downtown and is a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park," explained Lopes. 

Before purchasing property here or in another town in the Algarve, Lopes recommends seeking legal advice from a local solicitor or lawyer specializing in real estate transactions in Portugal and exploring the various residency options available to non-European Union citizens. Remember that the popular Golden Visa program, which allowed foreigners to live in the country for five years after a real estate investment, underwent significant changes in 2023 .

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

This beautiful city in the western Algarve, located along the Bensafrim River and Atlantic, is known for its rugged coastline dotted with caves, stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and historic downtown. Lopes pointed out two of its most well-known landmarks are the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and nearby Dona Ana Beach. 

In the Algarve, the median home prices have risen by six percent since October 2022, and a single square meter now costs $2,272, according to a report by GlobalPropertyGuide.com.

Travel Off Path

These Are The Top 5 Cheapest Cities In Europe You'll Actually Want To Visit

Posted: April 23, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

Budapest, Hungary

Tirana, Albania

Bucharest, Romania

Sofia, Bulgaria

Porto, Portugal

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world's most fascinating destinations.

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