If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, make sure Porto is high on your list. This colorful city is packed with charm, culture, and incredible food. In this week’s blog, I will share with you the 25 Best Things To Do In Porto. Here you will find recommendations that include strolling along the scenic Ribeira or sipping Port wine straight from its source.
Located along the Douro River in northern Portugal, Porto is a city that effortlessly blends old-world character with vibrant energy. Its iconic azulejo-tiled buildings, friendly locals, and laid-back vibe make it an irresistible destination for travelers seeking authenticity. As you wander through its neighborhoods, each turn reveals something special. You will find yourself enjoying a cozy café, a street musician’s melody, or breathtaking river view. Porto isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a city to savor.
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INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT PORTO
Planning a visit to Porto? Here’s a fun little list of interesting facts about Porto that might just make you fall in love with the city before you even get there.
- Did you know Port wine was born here? Yep, the world-famous Port wine gets its name from Porto! This wine is actually aged across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, but it all starts right here.
- JK Rowling found inspiration here. While living in Porto in the ’90s, Rowling taught English and began writing Harry Potter. Fans say the city’s magical bookstores and uniformed students inspired Hogwarts!
- The blue-tiled churches are everywhere. Porto’s iconic azulejos (ceramic blue tiles) decorate everything from churches to train stations, each telling its own beautiful story.
- The locals are called “Tripeiros”. Legend has it that during a 15th-century expedition, Porto’s residents gave all their best meat to the sailors and were left with only tripe. Hence the nickname!
GETTING TO PORTO
If you’re visiting Porto, then you are either getting to the city via plane or train. In this section, I will share with you everything you need to know for these two ways of transportation.
GETTING TO PORTO VIA PLANE
Porto Airport – Francisco Sa Carneiro (OPO) is located 12 km north of the city center. This makes it the most easy and convenient way to reach the city, especially if you are traveling from a different country.
Search your flights with Kiwi.com.
How to get from Porto Airport to the city center?
There are different options to choose from to reach the city center from the airport. Here are the best ones.
- Taxi. Taxi is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the city center. There is no fixed rate for a taxi ride from the airport to the city. Prices will vary depending on the time of the day and traffic. However, an average ride will cost approximately 20 to 25 €.
- Metro. If you are looking for a more economic way to reach the airport, then Porto’s metro system is the way to go. Metro Line E (Purple Line) connects the airport with Trinidade station with trains every 15 to 20 minutes. The price of the tickets for the metro in Porto vary depending on the zones of the city you are going to use. To go from the airport to the city center, you will have to get a Zone 4 ticket, which means it will cost 2,40 € per ride and it is valid for 1h. In addition, the first time you buy a metro ticket, you will have to buy an Andante Card with a cost of 0,60 €. This card can be reused later to charge other tickets into it.
GETTING TO PORTO VIA TRAIN
If you’re traveling within Portugal, then it is also possible you will arrive in Porto by train. If this is the case, you will most probably arrive to Porto – Campanha Station.
Train system in Portugal works very good, and you can get from Lisbon to Porto in only 3 hours. Buy your train tickets with Omio.com.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PORTO?
Wondering when its the best time to visit Porto? Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are absolute sweet spots. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, the days are long, and the crowds are smaller than in peak summer. It’s the perfect moment for relaxed strolls along the Douro River.
Summer (July and August) can also be great if you don’t mind the heat and few more people around. Porto comes alive with energy. Rooftops bars are buzzing, beaches are inviting, and sunset views from the Dom Luis I Bridge are truly next-level. Just be prepared for slightly higher prices and book your accommodation early.
Winter, while quieter and cooler, has its own charm too, especially if you’re into cozy tastings and less touristy vibes. So really, Porto’s got a vibe for every season. It just depends on what of experience you’re after!
HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED TO VISIT PORTO?
In my opinion, the ideal amount of days for a first visit to Porto is 3 days. You’ll have time to soak in the city’s charm without feeling rushed. In that time, you can explore the historic Ribeira district, visit the stunning Livraria Lello, climb the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views, and, of course, enjoy a proper Port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia. The city’s compact size makes it super walkable, so you’ll be surprised how much you can see in a short amount of time.
That said, if you have an extra day or two, you won’t regret it. With 4 or even 5 days, you can take things slower and dive a little deeper. Maybe do a day trip to the Douro Valley for some vineyard-hopping, check out the beach at Foz do Douro, or visit nearby towns like Guimaraes or Braga. Porto has this wonderfully relaxed pace, so giving yourself some extra time means more long lunches, lazy strolls, and spontaneous moments that make travel so special.
THE 25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PORTO
Let’s not wait any longer and begin with the list of the 25 best things to do in Porto. These are in no particular order.
1. GO FOR A STROLL ALONG CAIS DA RIBEIRA AND ENJOY SUNSET
Cais da Ribeira is Porto’s postcard-perfect riverfront full of colorful houses. There is something magical about taking a sunset walk along it. As the golden hours roll in, the colourful buildings at Vila Nova de Gaia riverfront light up with warm light while the Douro River waters shimmer. Locals and tourists gather around the promenade and enjoy the atmosphere.
If you are tired of walking, you can also sit near the water and watch traditional Rabelo boats rocking on the water, with the majestic Dom Luís I Bridge silhouetted in the background, creating a scene that feels like it was made for postcards. It doesn’t matter if you are enjoying it solo or hand-in-hand with some special, a sunset at Cais da Ribeira is one of those moments that stays with you long after you leave.
2. GO SHOPPING AT RUA DAS FLORES
Rua das Flores, in Porto, is a lively, open-air gallery where every shop window tells a story. This charming pedestrian street is bursting with personality, lined with independent boutiques, artisan stores, and cute littel cafés that invite you to pause and soak it all in.
Rua das Flores has something for all kinds of people. You can brose through handmade jewelry, pick up a locally made ceramic, or flip through quirky art prints. Street performers add a touch of rhythm to your stroll, and the historic buildings give the whole experience a postcard-worthy backdrop. It’s the perfect place to find a meaningful souvenir, or just enjoy the vibe of Porto’s creative heart.
3. ADMIRE THE BEAUTIFUL TILES AT sAO BENTO STATION
Sao Bento Station is another must-visit spot in Porto. It’s more than just a place to catche a train, it’s a destination in itself! Right in the heart of Porto, this stunning station tiles tell stories of Portugal’s history, from royal battles to everyday life in the countryside. You’ll find yourself staring at the walls longer than you expected, and probably snapping a few dozen photos too!
4. VISIT PALACIO DA BOLSA
The Palácio da Bolsa, or the Stock Exchange Palace, is one of Porto’s most dazzling landmarks. From the outside, it already looks grand, but step inside and you’ll be blown away by the ornate details, marble staircases, and stunning rooms. The star of the show is the Arab Room, an opulent space inspired by Moorish design, dripping with gold leaf and intricate patterns. It’s so impressive that it’s still used today for official events!
Practical information
- Visit. It is only possible to visit the palace buy joining a guided tour. The language of the tour is booked according to the order of arrival
- Price. Tickets to visit the palace cost 14 € per person.
- Opening Hours. Visiting hours are between 9:00 and 18:30.
- Buy your tickets. You can book your tickets online here.
In the same square as Palácio da Bolsa, you’ll find the Ferreira Borges Market, a former produce market that has been turned into restaurants and bars, where the locals meet to enjoy good food and drinks.
Opposite to the market, you will also find some traditional and colorful houses that are typical from Porto, and they guide the way to the Douro.
5. BE IMPRESSED BY IGREJA DE SANTA CLARA
The church of Santa Clara (Igreja de Santa Clara), is a true hidden gem in Porto. From the outside, it looks quite simple and unassuming, but step inside and you’ll be completely wowed by its jaw-dropping Baroque interior. Every inch of the walls and ceiling is covered in intricately carved wood, gilded in rich gold leaf.
To make it even more impressive, it is not as packed as other more famous churches in the city, which makes it perfect for a peaceful moment of awe and appreciation. Santa Clara is a spot in Porto that you definitely shouldn’t skip.
Practical information
- Price. Tickets to visit Santa Clara Church cost 4 € per person.
- Opening hours. The church is open daily between 9:00 and 13:00 and between 14:00 and 18:00.
6. WALK ACROSS DON LUIS I BRIDGE
Walking across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto is a must during your visit to the city. A stunning iron masterpiece that connects the city of Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia across the Duoro River. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel and finishe in the 1880s, the bridge’s sweeping arch and double-deck structure invite exploration, whether on foot or by tram, with breathtaking views at every turn.
The upper level allows pedestrians to stroll 45 meters above the water, perfect for gazing down at the traditional Rabelo boats drifting below, while the lower deck is more leisurely and charmingly close to the riverbank.
We crossed this bridge quite a few times during our stay in Porto, and every time the views didn’t disappoint.
7. CHECK OUT THE REMAININGS OF THE OLD CITY WALLS (WALLS OF DOM FERNANDO)
From Dom Luís I Bridge, you will get the best views of the old city walls that used to protect the city. These days, there is not much of it left but from the Dom Luís Bridge you get to see the best preserved part standing over the cliffs of Guindais, right above the Douro River.
Right next to the walls, you will see the Funicular dos Guindais, which is an excellent way to skip the uphill hike on a warm summer day.
8. VISIT PORTO CATHEDRAL, SÉ DO PORTO
Perched high above the city in Porto’s historic heart, the Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral) is an absolute must-see. This imposing Romanesque structure dates back to the 12th century and offers a fascinating blend of architectural styles, that include Gothic and Baroque styles.
As you step inside the cathedral, you’re greeted with soaring arches, beautiful azulejos (traditional blue-and-white tiles), and a sense of calm that contrasts with the city’s lively streets below.
And of course, you should not miss the views from the cathedral’s square. From here, you will be treated to a sweeping panorama of Porto’s colorful rooftops, the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and the Douro River winding its way through the valley. It’s fantastic spot for photos, or just to enjoy the view.
Practical information
- Price. Entrance to visit the cathedral is free but if you want to visit the cloisters and a treasure room is 3 € per person.
- Opening Hours. The cathedral is open daily between 9:00 and 18:30.
9. ADMIRE THE VIEWS FROM MIRADOURO DA RUA DAS ALDAS
Once you are done visiting the Porto Cathedral, it is time to explore the narrow but charming cobbled streets that descend towards the Douro. As you walk along these streets you will most probably stumble into Miradouro Da Rua Das Aldas. A nice little terrace, or viewpoint from which you will get magnificent views over porto, Sao Lourenço Church and the Douro River.
10. WALK ALONG THE CAIS DA RIBEIRA DA GAIA
Cais da Ribeira de Gaia is the riverfront walk on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of Porto. Walking along it, is one of those experiences that stays with you long after your trip ends. The promenade streches along the south bank of the Douro River, offering some of the best views in the city, especially of Porto’s iconic skyline, with its colorful buildings stacked on the hillside and the graceful arches of Dom Luís I Bridge. The atmosphere is laid-back and full of life and locals and tourists alike drift between cafés, wine cellars, and little souvenir shops.
11. RIDE THE GAIA CABLE CAR
The Gaia Cable Car rises gently in the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the Douro. Riding this gondola is more than just a way of avoiding the steep uphill, it is about enjoying a peaceful ride with a riverside view. As soon as you lift off, the hustle of the promenade fades away and you’re greeted with a peaceful, almost magical panorama of the Douro River.
Once you’re at the top, the view opens even wider. The Miradouro do Jardim do Morro is the perfect spot to just stop, relax and enjoy the view.
12. VISIT A PORT WINE CELLAR AND ENJOY A PORT WINE TASTING
Another must-do activity in Vila Nova de Gaia is, visiting one of the many Port Wine Cellars located on this side of the Douro River. This is where the magic of port wine truly comes to life.
Port wine is a fortified wine, which means that a neutral spirit of 77% alcohol is added to the wine to sotp the fermentation process. This raises de alcohol content but also helps the wine retain its sweetness, since the sugar remains. The wine is then aged in barrels in the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
There are many wine cellars on these side of the city but the most famous are Calem Caves, Sandeman, Ferreira Caves, Taylor’s Port. All of the offer visits to their cellars and explanations on how port wine is made. Just choose the one that you like the best and book your tickets.
In our case, we visited Sandeman and we absolutely loved the experience. Our guide walked us through the fascinating history of port production, from the grape harvests upriver in the Douro Valley to the aging process that gives this fortified wine its signature richness.
The real treat, of course, came at the end of the tour: the tasting. We were offered to taste three different types of Port: ruby, tawny, and white. It was the prefect way to end our visit.
Practical information about Sandeman Wine Cellars
- Price. A regular visit to Sandeman costs 22 € per person.
- Languages. There are daily tours in English, Portuguese, French, Spanish, etc.
- Book your tour online. Tours have a tendency to sell out, so make sure to book your tickets online in advance. You can do so here.
13. GO ON A DAY TRIP TO THE DOURO VALLEY
If you have some extra time in Porto and you enjoy learning about wine, you should definitely go on a day trip to the Douro Valley. You will be able to explore the Douro region with the hills covered with vineyards and the Douro River winding peacefully below.
A day trip to the Douro Valley includes scenic drives with jaw-dropping viewpoints, a leisurely river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat, and stops at a couple of family-run quintas for wine and port tastings.
14. TRY THE MOUTH WATERING CODFISH CAKE
One of the Portuguese cuisine delicacies is Codfish Cake (Pastel de Bacalhau). Codfish cake is a simple dish with basic ingredients (Codfish, potato, egg, parsley, and olive oil) but it is absolutely delicious.
When in Porto, you have to try it at Casa Portuguesa do Pastel De Bacalhau, located in Vila Nova de Gaia. Not only their codfish cakes are delicious, but the restaurant is an experience in itself. It is very nicely decorated, with live music, and you can get a codfish cake and port wine for 15 € and you get to keep the port glass as a souvenir.
15. EAT A FRANCESInha
If there’s one dish in Porto you have to try, it’s the legendary Francesinha. Think of it as a Portuguese love letter to comfort food. It consists of layers of cured meats and steak tucked between slices of fluffy bread, smothered in melted cheese, and drenched in a rich, spicy beer-based sauce. Oh, and it’s usually topped with a fried egg and served with side of crispy fries to mop up all that saucy goodness.
It’s messy, indulgent, and totally over-the-top in the best possible way. Trust me, you’ll want to try this dish! Just make sure to go in hungry!
16. VISIT LIVRARIA LELLO
Another must-visit spot in Porto is Livraria Lello. This cute library is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling when she wrote the Harry Potter books. This has not been confirmed but it is sure that this bookshop did appear in one of the Harry Potter movies. You should not miss its grand wooden staircase. The shelves are packed with books in Portuguese and foreign languages, and there’s a charming vintage vibe in the air.
Practical information
- Price. There are different types of tickets to visit Livraria Lello. Silver Tickets, cost 10 € per person and get you access to the bookshop at a specific time slot. The price of this ticket can be used to buy a book inside the shop. Gold Tickets cost 15,95 € per person and it includes access via a “faster lane” as a book included in your visit.
- Opening hours. The bookshop is open 9:00 and 19:30.
- Book your tickets online. To visit this bookshop, you will have to book your ticket online in advance for a specific date and time. You can so here.
Photo by Dmitri Zotov on Unsplash
17. CLIMB UP TO CLERIGOS TOWER
Climbint to the top of Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos in Portuguese), with its slender baroque shiloutte will grant you some of the best views in Porto. To access it, you will first visit the adjacent church (Igreja dos Clérigos) where you will be able to admire the intricate altarpieces and grand organ.
Once you’ve admired the church, it is time to make your way to the tower’s entrance and begin to climb the 240 steps that will take you to the top. But don’t worry, it is easier than you think. Along the way, you will get to peek through small windows that reveal glimpses of Porto and inside the church.
At the top, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking panorama that stretches from the red-tiled roof of Ribeira to the bridges spanning the Douro.
Practical information
- Price. Tickets to visit the tower cost 10 per person.
- Opening Hours. The church is open daily between 9:00 and 19:00.
- Book your tickets in advance. It is possible to book your tickets in advance here, but it is not really necessary. There is usually tickets available.
18. GO ON A SIX BRIDGES CRUISE ALONG THE DOURO
One of the best ways to see Porto is from the water, and the famous 6 Bridges Douro Cruise gives you front-row views of the city’s charm. Hopping onto one of the traditional rabelo boats (once used to transport barrels of port wine) you’ll gently cruise along the river, passing under six of Porto’s most iconic bridges. Each one has its own personality, from the elegant iron arch of the Dom Luís I Bridge to the sleek modern lines of the Infante Bridge.
As the boat glides between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, you’ll get stunning views of both riverbanks with historic houses stacked like colorful puzzle pieces on one side and the legendary port wine cellars on the other.
We did this cruise right before sunset and it was just perfect to see the golden light reflected on the river.
💡 Want to join the same cruise as we did? Then book this Porto Six Bridges Cruise. It was just fantastic and not too crowded. I could not recommend it more!
19. RELAX AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE GARDENS (JARDINS DO PALACIO DE CRISTAL)
Tucked away on a hilltop with some of the best views in Porto, the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal are a dreamy escape from the city buzz. As soon as you step into the gardens, you’ll be surrounded by leafy pathways, blooming flowerbeds, and the occasional strutting peacok showing off its feathers.
The gardens are beautifully landscaped with a mix of romantic lawns, fountains, and themed zones. From the fragant rose garden to shady groves perfect for a quiet pause. Designed in the 19th century, the park still carries a timeless charms, and every corner seems made for wandering and wonder.
What really makes this spot unforgettable are the panoramic views. From the many terrances scattered throughout the park, you get breathtaking sights of the Douro River, and the Arrábida Bridge. It’s the kind of place where you want to slow down, sit on a bench, and just take it all in.
20. enjoy the beach at FOZ DO DOURO
Foz do Douro is where Porto slows down and the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. And let me tell you, it’s absolutely worth the short tram or bus ride from the city center. This coastal neighborhood has a totally different vibe: elegant, breezy, and perfect for a relaxed day by the sea.
Beyond the beachy charm, Foz is full of character. Think grand 19th-century villas, trendy boutiques, and restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to perfectly flaky pastel de nata.
21. Check out the Azulejos at Capela das Almas
Capela das Almas, literally the “Chapel of Souls“, located in Porto’s bustling Santa Catarina district feels like walking into a living canvas. This 18th-century neoclassical chapel is famous for its dazzling façade covered in more than 15,000 blue and white azulejo tiles.
Step inside, and you’ll find a quiet, softly lit interior that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant exterior. Neoclassical altars, mesmerizing stained-glass windows by Amandio Silva, and a serene atmosphere invite a moment of pause and reflection.
22. GET COFFEE AND A PASTEL DE NATA IN CAFÉ MAJESTIC
Wandering int the Café Majestic on Rua de Santa Catarina is like stepping back into Porto’s Belle Époque. Housed in an exquisite Art Nouveau building designed by José Pinto de Oliveira and opened in 1921, the cafés marble façade, ornate mirrors, carved wooden arches, chandeliers, and plush leather seating instantly transport you to a Parisian salon of the 1920s.
Today, the Majestic, still oozes elegance. The atmosphere is refined yet warm, with a resident painist often playing softly as patrons sip strong Bicas (espresso) and nibble on pastries like French toast or pastel de nata.
23. SNAP A PHOTO WITH PORTO LETTERS IN FRONT OF THE CITY HALL
If you stroll down Avenida dos Aliados in Porto, you can’t miss the grand Câmara Municipal (City Hall) at the top of the hill. It’s an elegant granite building with a soaring clock tower that looks like it’s straight out of a vintage postcard. This impressive structure, built in the early 20th century and crowned by a 70 meter tower, stands as a proud emblem of Porto.
Right in fornt of the City Hall, you’ll likely spot the iconic “Porto” letters. They make for an irresistible photo op, whether you’re posing solo or goofing around with friends, and they have become a modern symbol of Porto’s playful side.
24. POP INTO IGREJA DO CARMO
Igreja do Carmo (Carmo Church) is one of those spots that stops you in your tracks, even if you weren’t planning to visit a church. With its gorgeous baroque architecture and that stunning blue and white azulejo tile mural stretching across the side wall, it’s one of the most photogenic churches in the city.
Fun fact: Did you know it is actually two churches sitting side by side? Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas are separated by one of the narrowest houses in Porto, which once used to keep monks and nuns apart!
Just across the street is Porto University, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Portugal. The university’s main building is impressive in its own right, with neoclassical details and a lively courtyard where students gather between classes.
25. DRINK A FRESH SMOOTHIE AT MERCADO DO BOLHAO
Mercado do Bolhao is grand early 20th-century neoclassical market building that has been restored to preserve its original charm and functionality. Inside the market, you can find 79 stalls offering everything from fresh vegetables, plants, spices, and ready-to-eat food.
Inside the market, you’ll find a mix of both locals and tourists. The first ones doing their regular grocery shopping and the latters just enjoying the lively ambiance of the market, grabbing something to eat or looking for a more special souvenir.
ACCOMMODATION IN PORTO
Looking for some accommodation recommendations in Porto? Here are two accommodations that I think are good value for their price.
Acta The Clover
This hotel is very centrally located, right next to Trinidade Metro Station (direct Metro line to the airport). It offers comfortable and spacious rooms.
It is it’s rooftop terrace that sets this hotel apart. It’s the perfect place to chill and relax with a coctail while you enjoy sunset, after a whole day of exploring the city.
Photos from Booking.com
Nove Julho Apartment
This apartment is a bit further from the city center than the previous hotel, but it is very well connected by Metro. Only 2 stops away of Sao Bento Station, from where you can walk to almost all the main sites in Porto.
I stayed here during my visit to Porto and I was really happy with my choice. It was comfortable, clean, and equipped with everything we needed.
Photos from Booking.com
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I hope you liked my blog about Porto. Let me know what you thought in the comments.
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