A colorful, picturesque city with a certain laid-back charm, Porto is the perfect place for a weekend getaway or an extended stay. There was so much to discover here – from the traditional wine cellars of the Douro Valley to the incredible mix of architectural styles within the city center.
While it may often play second fiddle to Lisbon, Portugal’s second largest city has a different vibe. It’s more relaxed, and easy on the eye, with a whole lot to offer. So, whatever your interests and passions, there are plenty of memorable, unique things to do in Porto.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PORTO
Porto is certainly a city that rewards spontaneity, but with a plan in place you can get the best out of your stay in this vibrant city. With that in mind, here are my top tips for the best places to visit in Porto.
1. Cais da Ribeira
Porto’s riverfront promenade, stretching along the River Douro, the Cais da Ribeira is the liveliest part of the city. Taking a stroll along the Cais da Ribeira, with its colorful buildings, is one of the best things to do in Porto and definitely one of the main delights of visiting this enchanting city.
You’ll find lots of cafes and bars lining the promenade – stopping here for a glass of port as you take in the atmosphere is a must. If you’re looking for things to do in Porto for couples, head to the Cais da Ribeira in the evening. It’s very romantic!
If you fancy taking in the view from the river, a spectacular private boat tour along the Ribeira is highly recommended. A Douro River cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective, taking in architectural wonders while learning about Porto’s history.
2. Palácio da Bolsa
Built between 1842 to 1910, the Palácio da Bolsa was once Portugal’s primary stock exchange and today is considered to be one the country’s most important historical buildings. From the outside, the stunning neoclassical architecture takes the breath away. Step inside the palace, however, and you’ll be mesmerized.
The detail of the interiors in the Palácio da Bolsa is truly incredible. Each room is more impressive than the last, but the real star of the show is the Arab Room, decorated in the lavish Moorish revival style that was popular at the time. It took 20 years to complete and was used as a wine and dine reception room for the world’s most important heads of state.
Get the best experience possible and book yourself a Palácio da Bolsa guided tour. You’ll hear the story behind the construction of one of the most spellbinding attractions in Porto, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253
3. Porto Cathedral
The Sé do Porto, otherwise known as the Porto Cathedral, is perhaps the most emblematic Porto landmark and probably one of the most important historical things to see in Porto. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Porto – believed to have been built almost 1,000 years ago – and, whether you’re religious or not, wandering around the cathedral is a magical experience.
The Cathedral is an amazing blend of architectural styles – the Romanesque interiors, the Baroque temple, the Gothic cloister and the traditional Portuguese azulejos create a fascinating mix. The Cathedral is free – in fact, it’s one of the best free things to do in Porto – although access to the cloister costs €3.
It’s totally worth it though. You’ll be able to climb to the top of the bell tower for a spectacular panoramic view of Porto.
4. Livraria Lello
Who’d have thought a library would make the list of the very best Porto attractions? Well, the Livraria Lello is no ordinary library. It was once believed to have been an inspiration for Harry Potter author JK Rowling, who lived in the city in her 20s, but she has insisted that she never even visited it: “It’s beautiful and I wish I had visited it, but it has nothing to do with Hogwarts!”
It’s certainly Potteresque though, with the ornate winding staircase, incredible stained glass windows and overall fairytale vibe. Since the rumors of Harry Potter inspiration, it’s become one of key places to see in Porto. So, as you can imagine, it gets quite busy!
That’s why it’s a good idea to explore the Livraria Lello as part of a Porto guided walking tour. You get a skip the line ticket, together with an explanation of the history of the bookshop. You’ll even get a Livraria Lello voucher, so you can get yourself a memento of this most unique literary attraction.
R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161
5. Mosteiro da Serra
A former monastery situated in Vila Nova de Gaia, just south of Porto on the other side of the Douro River, the Mosteiro da Serra offers incredible panoramic views of Porto’s historic center and iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
Although the monastery is located on a hilltop, getting there is easy enough. You can take a metro to the nearby Jardim do Morro stop or even catch a cable car. For me, one of the top things to do in Porto is to head up to the Mosteiro da Serra around sunset, bring a picnic, and marvel at the view. Spectacular!
Largo Aviz, 4430-329 Vila Nova de Gaia
6. São Bento Railway Station
One of Europe’s most elegant railway stations, São Bento is a thing of beauty. The station contains more than 20,000 traditional blue and white tiles (azulejos), each meticulously hand painted to depict Portugal’s history. The effect is truly stunning, made all the more marvelous by the strategically designed window placement that makes the most of the sun streaming in.
You might not have a train to catch, but you’ll certainly be whisked away by the sheer magic of it all. Make sure you give yourself time to visit São Bento train station – it’s in the historic center of Porto, close to cathedrals and churches, so it’s well worth heading to this part of the city.
Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069
7. Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis
The oldest public museum in the whole of Portugal and one of the most popular places to visit in Porto, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis hosts an impressive collection of paintings, photos, sculptures, furniture and ceramics from a range of eras and cultures.
For me, the best thing about the museum is that it’s not gigantic like some major art museums in big cities around Europe. There’s plenty of space, and the collection is large, but somehow it feels like a breeze to walk around this museum. This adds to the tranquility of the experience, helping you to really appreciate the art on offer.
You can get a 50% discount on entry to the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis when you book a Porto card with transportation. If you’re a bit of a culture vulture, it may be worth checking out, as there’s lots of free entry to museums and discounts on offer.
R. de Dom Manuel II 44, 4050-522
8. Douro River
The Douro River is such a central part of Porto. So, it makes sense that a river cruise should be one of the best ways to appreciate this wonderful city.
There’s lots of options, depending on what floats your river boat. If you fancy indulging, a private sunset tour on a luxury yacht is ideal. For the more adventurous, a guided sailing excursion of the Douro River is one of the most fun things to do in Porto.
Whatever your chosen vessel, seeing Porto from the water, following the river routes of the city’s old wine merchants, gives you the chance to see the city’s most important landmarks with your feet up and a glass of port in your hand. Sightseeing in Porto doesn’t get any easier or more relaxed than this!
9. Dom Luis I Bridge
Gaze up at the double deck arc bridge in Porto, the Ponte de Dom Luís I, and something comes to mind. Then your Porto city walking guide informs you that this spectacular bridge was originally designed by Gustave Eiffel… and the penny drops.
The lattice-style designe certainly evokes the Eiffel Tower, but this bridge is a true wonder in its own right. Built in 1886, Eiffel’s design was originally for a single deck iron bridge. However, Porto’s population was booming, so a competition was launched to design a double decker. An Eiffel-disciple by the name of Théophile Seyrig and used his maestros original design as a blueprint for the bridge.
To walk the bridge at sunset, as the golden lights bathes the Cais Ribeira below, is a memorable experience. It’s a sight to behold! No wonder the locals revere the Dom Luis I Bridge so much.
10. São Francisco Church
Located right next door to the Palácio da Bolsa, the Igreja São Francisco, otherwise known as the Church of Saint Francis, is one of the most spectacular examples of gothic architecture you’ll find anywhere in Portugal.
Built between 1393 and 1425, it’s pretty normal from the outside. Once you step inside, however, your jaw will hit the floor. The golden gilt woodwork is absolutely incredible – it’s like walking into another world. Photos are forbidden, by the way, which actually makes it all the more special. You get to truly take in the splendor of it all.
Entry to this beautiful church also gets you access to the museum next door, which is well worth a visit.
Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 4050-297
11. Clérigos Tower
The tallest landmark in Porto (225 steps… count them as you climb!), the Clérigos Tower opened in 1763 and is one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks. Climbing the tower all the way to the top and taking in the breathtaking view is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Porto.
Admission is 5€ and includes a tour of the small museum. Most people come to climb the heights though. Be warned – the steps are very narrow and things get a little claustrophobic at the top. Plus, if you’re near the top when the bell strikes on the hour, it’ll scare the wits out of you!
If you’re brave enough, you’ll be rewarded with a view like no other! See the tower as part of a historical center walking tour and get a deeper insight into its place in the history of Porto.
R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546
12. FC Porto Museum
For anyone interested in the beautiful game, a trip to FC Porto’s home stadium is a must. If you can catch a game, I highly recommend it… especially if it’s against fierce rivals Benfica (a game they call O Clássico). If you can’t make it to a game, taking a tour of the FC Porto Museum and Dragão Stadium is essential for any football fan.
The tour takes a mazzy dribble through the club’s past, including some famous victories at home and abroad, the most famous of which was the UEFA Champions League in 2004. You’ll actually get to see the trophy in the trophy room, and you’ll also get the chance to sit on the subs bench and take in the sheer size of the stadium.
While it’s not for everybody, a visit to FC Porto’s stadium is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Porto for football fans.
Via Futebol Clube do Porto – Estádio do Dragão, 4350-415
13. Douro Valley
The home of port wine, the Douro Valley is the only region in the world where true port wine can be produced. That’s because the famous sweet fortified wine has a protected status – the grapes are grown here in the valley, where the terrain and climate are perfect.
Once the grapes have been harvested in the Douro Valley, they are brought to Porto to be processed in wine. You can learn about the entire wine making process during a local-led Douro Valley wine tour, which is the best way to go beyond the glass and get a better understanding of why port plays such an important role in Portugal’s culture.
There are so many fascinating wine cellars in this region, all offering their own wine tasting and tours. Book early – it’s an extremely popular activity and gets pretty crowded, particularly in summer months.
14. Casa da Música
An unusual looking concert hall with a unique minimalistic, futuristic design, the Casa da Música hosts some of Portugal’s best concerts – from rock and jazz to electronic, experimental and classical, you’ll find concerts here pretty much every day.
Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, Casa da Música opened in 2005. The building itself is spectacular, particularly on the inside, the corrugated glass at each end gives you amazing views over the city and makes for a wonderful accompaniment to the music.
If you can catch a show here, I highly recommend it. Best of all, concerts here aren’t expensive – prices generally range from €6 to €14. I also recommend discovering the Casa da Musica in more depth with a guided tour.
Av. da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071
15. Fundação de Serralves
Situated in the heart of central Porto, the Fundação de Serralves is a cultural institution in the city, with a long heritage of nurturing and showcasing artistic talent. It’s made up of a contemporary art museum, a beautiful landscaped park, an art deco villa, woodlands featuring a treetop walk and a traditional farm.
With such a wide variety of activities, there’s something here for everyone. That’s what makes it one of the best things to do in Porto for families. The kids get to see animals, the adults can marvel at art and architecture… what’s not to love?!
The park itself is serene and spectacular. Across its 18 hectares, you’ll find rose gardens, lakes, native trees, water features, sculptures and more. If you’re looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the place to be.
R. Dom João de Castro 210, 4150-417
16. Jardim do Morro
One of the best places to take in the scenery of the city, the Jardim do Morro sits on a hill in Vila Nova de Gaia, on the south side of the Douro River. You can take a cable car across to the hilltop park, where you’ll find green spaces shaded by palms and a lively atmosphere of visitors and locals alike.
The most popular time of day to visit the gardens is in the evening. It gets crowded, particularly at weekends, so get here an hour or so before the sun goes down. You’ll have the best view in the city, as the sun sets behind the pastel-colored townhouses and the winding Douro River below.
There’s something about a sunset in Porto. It’s truly magical and even better when shared with others. So, make an evening at the Jardim do Morro a must when you visit this enchanting city.
Jardim do Morro, 4430-210 Vila Nova de Gaia
QUICK TRAVEL ITINERARIES FOR PORTO
Whether you’re visiting Porto for a quick getaway or an extended stay, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are my tips for places to visit in Porto, depending on how long your trip is.
1 DAY IN PORTO ITINERARY
In the morning, head towards central Porto and book yourself a Palácio da Bolsa guided tour, followed by a visit to the Church of Saint Francis next door. After lunch, take a stroll along the Dom Luis I Bridge, finishing the day soaking up the atmosphere and at the Cais Ribeira.
2-3 DAYS IN PORTO ITINERARY
Get your cultural fix by visiting museums and historic buildings such as the Palácio da Bolsa, Church of Saint Francis, but go further afield and check out the park and museum at Serralves Foundation and the Porto Cathedral.
Take a trip out of town for some exciting things to do near Porto, including a trip to the Douro Valley for a tour of the port wine cellars, as well as a trip to Mosteiro da Serra for the best views of Porto’s historic town center.
1 WEEK IN PORTO ITINERARY
Spend the first few days in the city, checking out architectural marvels such as the São Bento train station, the Palácio da Bolsa, the Church of Saint Francis and the Porto Cathedral.
Head out to the Mosteiro da Serra across the river by cable car, returning via the Dom Luis I Bridge in time for evening sunset, and wander the Cais da Ribeira. Catch a show at the Casa da Música, and take a private sunset cruise on the Douro River.
Get outside the city with a local-led Douro Valley wine tour to learn more about Porto’s famous fortified wine.
WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO
These are a few of the best neighborhoods in Porto for tourists.
Ribeira – BEST FOR FIRST TIME VISITOR
For anyone looking for the essence of Porto, the riverside neighborhood of Ribeira is the place to be. Characterized by narrow cobbled streets and colorful townhouses, it’s where you’ll find the most restaurants, cafes and bars serving up the best traditional Porto cuisine. If your trip is fleeting, this is the best place to stay.
Baixa – BEST FOR SIGHTSEEING AND NIGHTLIFE
Located just north of Ribeira, Baixa is essentially downtown Porto. Here, you’ll find many of the city’s most famous landmarks – the cathedral, the Clérigos tower, the famous Lello bookstore and the incredible São Bento train station. It’s also home to some of the best bars and nightclubs in the city.
Cedofeita – BEST FOR FAMILIES
Cedofeita is far enough from the city center to be peaceful, yet close enough to be able to see the sights. It’s calm, clean, safe and picturesque, making it the ideal neighborhood for those with little ones. It’s also quite a romantic area of the city, so it’s perfect for couples visiting Porto.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN PORTO
Porto has a fantastic gastronomic scene. There’s a whole host of great restaurants, from Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, to laid-back eateries. Here are some of the best.
Cúmplice Steakhouse
If you’re a steak lover, you cannot afford to miss this place! Cúmplice Steakhouse & Bar serves up traditional Portuguese cuisine in a swanky setting, with a particular emphasis on meat. The steak is grilled to perfection and is one of the best you’ll ever have!
R. de Passos Manuel 225 r/c, 4000-385
Oficina dos Rissóis
A small, cozy art nouveau-style restaurant with a terrace overlooking the beautiful Jardim de São Lázaro, Oficina dos Rissóis is run by two Michelin-star chefs who serve up incredible food. It’s an unassuming place with a relaxed atmosphere, but the food – particularly the rissoles, deep fried French-style patties – will blow you away.
Passeio de São Lázaro 5A, 4000-507
Gruta
Located in Rua de Santa Catarina, the main shopping street in Porto, Gruta is a minimalist masterpiece of a restaurant. It serves up sumptuous fish and seafood dishes, with a focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients, big flavors and friendly service. Modern twists on traditional dishes – this place is absolutely wonderful!
R. de Santa Catarina 447, 4000-452
Semea by Euskalduna
Okay, get ready for culinary paradise. If you’re looking for something truly spectacular, make the tasting menu at Euskalduna a must when visiting Porto. Ask for a seat at the counter, where you’ll get a glimpse of the method behind the magic, and enjoy one of the finest dining experiences on offer in the whole of Portugal.
Dama Pé de Cabra
This place is truly special. If you want fine dining, look elsewhere, but if you’re after great food, a relaxed setting and excellent services, this is the place for you. They do a large variety of food at all times of the day – the breakfast experience is unbelievable – and the service is as good as it gets. Friendly owners passionate about the food they make, and a great ambience – what more could you ask for?
Passeio de São Lázaro 5, 4000-507
GETTING TO PORTO
Porto is the main hub of northern Portugal. This means getting there by air is a piece of cake. You can fly to Porto via various international airlines, including EasyJet, Ryanair, TAP, Transavia and Air Berlin. If you’re flying to Lisbon, you can travel to Porto by fast train in just under 3 hours.
Once in the city, the best form of transport is walking. Porto is a small city and can be very busy on the roads, especially during rush hour. There are, however, plenty of public transport options – buy a Andante Tour card and you’ll get unlimited use of the metro, buses and select regional trains.
THINGS TO DO IN PORTO : FAQS
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Porto.
What is Porto known for?
The delicious sweet fortified wine known as port. While visiting porto, I highly recommend visiting the Douro Valley on the outskirts of the city. You’ll get to sample the famous port wine and gain an understanding of the history and cultivation process. Also, there are a ton of great wine tastings in the city.
When is the best time to visit Porto ?
Porto is beautiful all year round, with an average of 300 sunny days per year. However, spring and summer are the best seasons to visit this wonderful coastal city, between the months of April and October.
Is Porto worth visiting?
Absolutely! From the laid-back vibe to the gorgeous mix of architectural styles, not to mention the food, the wine, the history and the friendly locals, Porto is a city that has so much to offer.
How many days should I spend in Porto?
There’s a lot to soak up in Porto, but most curious travelers can get a lot out of a fleeting visit of 2-3 days. For those wanting to spend longer, a visit to nearby towns and beaches, as well as the famous port region known as the Douro Valley, is a must.
Is Porto safe?
Porto is a very safe city. Of course, like any large European city, pickpocketing can be a concern – particularly in the more touristic areas. That’s why it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and your personal belongings.
What is the most popular thing to do in Porto?
The most popular major Porto attractions include river cruises, Harry Potter experiences (much of the series was inspired by JK Rowling’s time living in the city), and Douro Valley wine tasting tours.
What is the best beach in Porto?
Praia de Matosinhos is a stunning beach near central porto and is probably the most popular beach in the city.
Further south, away from the crowds, you’ll find Praia do Senhor da Pedra, a tranquil beach beside a beautiful church on top of the rocks. It’s only 30 minutes from the center by train and is well worth the trip.
What foods should I try in Porto?
The famous pastel de nata is a must try when visiting Porto. It’s a flaky pastry filled with cream, with a sprinkling of cinnamon on top. Delicious!
Another famous traditional dish in Porto is Francesinha (meaning little French lady, or Frenchie). It’s essentially an epic sausage sandwich covered with egg and a melted cheese sauce. Not for the faint of heart, but those who dare will be richly rewarded!
Is Porto a walkable city?
Generally speaking, yes. It’s a relatively small city with a lot of culture and many of Porto’s major attractions are within walking distance of each other. There are a fair few hills however, and a pair of comfortable shoes are a must.
Is Porto expensive to eat and drink?
Porto is relatively inexpensive, especially compared to other popular tourist destinations in Europe. Expect to pay around €20 to €30 per person for a three course meal in a good restaurant.
Cafes, bars and small restaurants are pretty cheap – those wanting to travel on a budget and still have a great time will find it really easy to do in Porto.
Can you wear shorts in Porto?
Porto has a great climate with plenty of good weather. You’ll be able to wear shorts during spring and summer.
However, if you’re planning on visiting a church or sacred place, it’s best to wear something a little less casual.
Is everything closed on Sunday in Porto?
Most shops close on Sunday in Porto, except those located in busy tourist areas.
Is Porto good for shopping?
Yes, it’s a great city for shopping. In Porto, you’ll find lots of major chains and large shops in the Rua de Santa Catarina. You’ll also find lots of vintage stores and handmade boutiques in the São Bento district.
IN CLOSING
One of the most enticing holiday destinations in Portugal, Porto is a fantastic mix of culture, food, history and architecture. It’s a city that strikes the perfect balance – not too crowded and overrun with visitors, but with plenty of things to see and do.
With the tips above, you’ll no doubt have a wonderful time in this unique Portuguese coastal city.