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Porto (Oporto) has a dramatic location at the mouth of the Douro River. Vila Nova de Gaia - the port wine center - is situated south of the river and accessed by the spectacular Ponte Luis I. The Funicular dos Guindais runs down to the bridge from Batalha.

North of the river are Porto's main sights - the cathedral, the Palacio Episcopal and the Bolsa.

The narrow streets in the old city of Ribeira rise steeply up to the north. From the Clérigos Tower the slope becomes much more gentle leading up to Trindade Station , Porto Town Hall and the Lapa district of the city .

To the west the city is laid out in a more spacious style especially in the Boavista area of the city around the Casa da Musica and Casa da Musica Station , designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas which opened in 2005.

Porto, like the capital Lisbon, is a city of distinct districts - enjoy them all at your leisure.

Places Listed on the Map of Porto

The best points of access to the city are the main railway stations at São Bento and Campanha . Find Porto museums , churches and parks in Porto.

These include the interesting Torre dos Clerigos and the Igreja dos Clerigos both designed in the 18th century by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. An excellent park to relax is the Jardim do Palácio Cristal with views of the River Douro.

The city has some excellent museums include two relatively new ones in the west of the city. These are the World of Discoveries that recreates the voyages of Portuguese explorers during the so-called Age of Discovery and the superb Porto Legends.

Porto Legends is an multimedia show using projection mapping to relate ten legends of Porto's history in an underground setting. Directed by Nuno Maya the narration is by Pedro Abrunhosa and Jeremy Irons. The new facility shares the former Porto Custom's House with the more traditional Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações.

The city is football mad and has two teams FC Porto, who play at the 52,000 capacity Dragão Stadium and Boavista based at Bessa Stadium , which seats 30,000 spectators.

Porto has hotels and guest houses to suit all budgets from luxury five star properties to more budget pensions. Some recommendations include the five star Crowne Plaza Porto and the three star Pao de Acucar Hotel .

For something a little different, the Pestana Palácio do Freixo , is a five star pousada in a converted palace - the Palácio do Freixo, located in the far east of the city.

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Mapa - Interactive Porto Map

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of Porto. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the Porto interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
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Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

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2 Day Itinerary

Since Porto is the perfect city to discover on a weekend, we’ve created this two-day itinerary to discover the best of Porto.

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Map of Porto — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Porto, Portugal for travelers! Check out Porto’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Porto? See our Porto Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Porto. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Porto map:

Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Porto by categories
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Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 20 attractions in Porto

Bolsa palace, luís i bridge.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Livraria Lello

Porto cathedral, church of saint francis.

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Clerigos Church and Tower

Igreja do carmo, jardins do palácio de cristal, cais da ribeira, praça ribeira, mosteiro da serra do pilar, torre dos clérigos, portuguese centre of photography, church of saint ildefonso, av. dos aliados.

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Estádio do Dragão

National museum soares dos reis, museu de arte contemporânea de serralves, casa da música, top 10 restaurants in porto.

Pedro Lemos

Casa guedes tradicional.

Taberna Dos Mercadores

Belos aires restaurante, mercado do bolhão.

Transportation in Porto

Nearby airports, francisco sá carneiro airport, highways and major roads.

A28 - Porto to Viana Do Castelo
A1 - Porto to Lisbon
A4 - Porto to Amarante
A20 - Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia
IC1 - Porto to Lisbon via Coimbra
EN13 - Porto to Póvoa de Varzim
EN125 - Porto to Faro
A3 - Porto to Braga
A41 - Porto Ring Road
IC23 - Gondomar to Porto Downtown.

All road trips from Porto

Porto to Lisbon drive
Porto to Madrid drive
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Porto to Amsterdam drive
Porto to Valencia drive
Porto to Florence drive
Porto to Berlin drive
Porto to Prague drive
Porto to Milan drive
Porto to Granada drive
Porto to Marrakech drive
Porto to Santiago de Compostela drive
Porto to Venice drive
Porto to Edinburgh drive
Porto to Dublin drive
Porto to Cordoba drive
Porto to Coimbra drive
Porto to Budapest drive
Porto to Vienna drive
Porto to Malaga drive
Porto to Salamanca drive
Porto to Brussels drive
Porto to Toledo drive
Porto to Turin drive
Porto to Munich drive

Explore nearby places

Vila Nova de Gaia
Sao Mamede de Infesta
Aguas Santas
Leca da Palmeira
Pacos de Brandao
Santo Tirso
Pacos de Ferreira
Vila do Conde
Santa Maria da Feira

All related maps of Porto

Map of Vila Nova de Gaia
Map of Sao Mamede de Infesta
Map of Rio Tinto
Map of Valadares
Map of Gondomar
Map of Lavra
Map of Matosinhos
Map of Aguas Santas
Map of Ermesinde
Map of Leca da Palmeira
Map of Maia
Map of Arcozelo
Map of Valongo
Map of Argoncilhe
Map of Espinho
Map of Gandra
Map of Mozelos
Map of Lordelo
Map of Fiaes
Map of Pacos de Brandao
Map of Mosteiro
Map of Mindelo
Map of Trofa
Map of Esmoriz
Map of Cortegaca
Map of Santo Tirso
Map of Azurara
Map of Pacos de Ferreira
Map of Vila do Conde
Map of Santa Maria da Feira

Porto throughout the year

Porto in January
Porto in February
Porto in March
Porto in April
Porto in May
Porto in June
Porto in July
Porto in August
Porto in September
Porto in October
Porto in November
Porto in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Porto?

Get inspired for your trip to Porto with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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World Map » Portugal » City » Porto » Porto Tourist Map

Porto tourist map

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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.

Book Port Wine Tastings & Tours in Porto

Fado houses in Porto

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

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

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

Book Fado Live Show Ticket

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

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

1. Clérigos Tower

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

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

Book Torre dos Clerigos Ticket

2. Livraria Lello

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

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

Book Guided Walking Tours and Lello Bookshop

3. Carmo Church

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

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

4 . Bolsa Palace

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

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

Book Palacio da Bolsa Guided Tour

5. porto cathedral.

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

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

6. Majestic Cafe

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

Best Things to do in Porto

Day trips from porto, portugal.

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

1. Douro Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Douro Valley Tours

2. Peneda-Gerês National Park

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

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

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

Book Peneda-Geres National Park Tours

3. Matosinhos

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Matosinhos Beach Activities

Travel Guide to Porto & Northern Portugal

What are some activities for kids in Porto, Portugal?

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

Book Sea Life Ticket

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

Book World of Discoveries Ticket

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to eat in Porto, Portugal?

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

Porto Food Tours & Tastings

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

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

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

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

1. Taberna Santo António, Rua Virtudes

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

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

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

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

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

3. Tasquinha Ze Povinho , Rua Clemente Meneres

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

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

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

1. Arvore do Mundo, Rua do Duque de Lole

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

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

2. Kind Kitchen , Rua do Bonjardim

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

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

3. My Green Pastry , Praça da República

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

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

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

1. Pedro Lemos, Rua do Padre Luís Cabral

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

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

2. Antiqvvm , Rua de Entre Quintas

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

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

Guide to Porto Restaurants 2022

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

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

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

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

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

2-days: €20
3-days: €25
4-days: €33

Book the Porto Travel Card

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

The metro in Porto, Portugal

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

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

The tram in Porto, Portugal

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

A single fare will cost you €3.

The bus in Porto, Portugal

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

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

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

The train in Porto, Portugal

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

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

Guide to Bars in Porto

Porto guide: final thoughts.

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

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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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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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

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

Porto City Guide: A Complete Plan For First-Timers

Porto, Portugal. The ideal place for a weekend trip and to get a great dose of culture, architecture and top-notch food and wine all in one. I hope this Porto city guide gives you all you need to know to spend some amazing days.

The unique sweetness of world-famous Port wine has been putting Porto on the spotlight of wine lovers for many years.

But this city is much more than good wine.

It might be the second-largest city in Portugal but it feels much more authentic and traditional in comparison to Lisbon . Plus it has the ideal size to create a bubble boasting with lively culture, great tasty food and inspiring architecture.

These days, it’s becoming hard for one to give non-touristy local tips of Porto , but at least I hope this helps you see Porto with the knowledge of a local. Without skipping the must-dos, naturally. Enjoy!

Sections of this Porto city guide

Best time to visit Porto ☀️

Weather in porto.

As a general rule, weather in northern Portugal is a bit more greyish and cold than in the rest of country. However, if you time your visit to anywhere between May and October, you should face more than acceptable temperatures and a majority of sunny days.

Porto is a city to be enjoyed with sunny weather. I think all the cities are like this to some extent, but I found this to be especially true there. Might have to do with the architecture, the colors of pavements and buildings or just with the light reflecting in the traditional tiles of the houses.

So the best time to visit Porto is anywhere between March and October. During peak winter months the temperatures are cold – yet not freezing – but the days tend to be very dark and gloomy.

What else to consider

Of course choosing the best time to visit Porto is more than just looking at the good weather. I highly recommend you visit during São João , probably one of the and largest craziest street parties in Europe!

In July and August the crowds take over Porto and prices get inflated. It might also be too hot to be wandering around, even though there some nice Atlantic beaches close by.

June is also a popular time, particularly around the 23th. Not only the weather is warm and nice, but the massive street party of São João takes over the entire city and there’s just an infectious happiness in the air.

How to get around Porto

By far the best way to explore Porto is to walk. It is a quite hilly city, but small in size so almost all the major sights are within reach.

Regardless, much of the magic and charm of Porto stems from walking around. The city is full of hidden gems that will surprise you at every turn: a viewpoint with river views, a tiny hole-in-the-wall arts-and-crafts shop or a local restaurant.

Other ways to get around Porto

The network of the Metro is very good, considering the scale of the city. It can take you to all major spots, including from the airport. You’ll need a reusable Andante card which you can top-up with individual trips.

Uber is also widely available.

Travel map of Porto 🗺️

I’ve put all the major attractions, favorite restaurants and other points of interest on this Google map. Feel free to use it during your trip.

Top 5 places to go in Porto 🌟

It’s really hard to keep the list so damn short, but here you go!

The iconic symbol of Porto , Torre dos Clérigos (Clérigos Tower) is a Baroque bell tower of the church with the same name. At the moment of its construction in the 18th century, the tower was the tallest building in Portugal !

Just in front, the recently renovated Passeio dos Clérigos is a shopping street with a neat-looking garden with olive trees on top. The outdoor seating of BASE is a cool spot to grab a drink or a coffee.

Livraria Lello (Lello Library)

guide of porto lello library harry potter

With a building that is a piece of art by itself, Livraria Lello & Irmão is the oldest bookshop in the world. Make sure you enter there just to experience the impressive wooden ceilings inside and the famous red art noveau staircase. As cool as it looks, it somehow looks like a vagina from above – sorry, someone has to say it!

Rumour has it that this place was the inspiration for JK Rowling to write about the Hogwarts Library in Harry Potter . UPDATE: J.K. Rowling herself has said this is NOT true! But apparently the Hogwarts costumes seem to have been inspired by typical portuguese students’ outfits.

The most traditional neighborhood of the city is Ribeira right next to the river Douro .

Bearing World Heritage status, it’s easy to fall in love with the tiny streets where you can indulge on local’s lifestyle. Housewives putting their laundry out to dry on the balconies, the chit-chatter of the men in the local bar and kids playing football outside.

Not only this is Ribeira , this is the soul and essence of Porto .

Ponte D. Luís (Dom Luís Bridge)

🇵🇹⏫ Skywalk. The upper platform of the double-decker Ponte Dom Luís, the most iconic bridge in Porto. The bottom deck carries road traffic, while this one carries the Metro trains and pedestrians. Needless to say it’s easy to get distracted with the views over Douro! #porto #architecture #portugal #🇵🇹 Uma foto publicada por BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) a Jul 7, 2016 às 10:47 PDT

If I had to choose a picture to define Porto as its most iconic postcard, this is it. The entire landscape is dominated by this ironwork masterpiece by a Gustave Eiffel’s student. You can definitely feel Eiffel’s hand on this.

Make sure you cross the bridge on foot both in the bottom and upper platforms. The upper one is not for the fainthearted though, specially if it’s a windy day!

Just after you reach the other side – Vila Nova de Gaia – there’s a small park to your right. If you can time your visit to see the sunset from there, prepare yourself to a magnificent moment.

Wtf? What so special about tiles? Well first of all they’re everywhere in Portugal , but Porto manages to keep better the tradition of decorating beautiful colorful facades with them.

You can find the finest examples of typically-portuguese blue tile art on the inner hall of Estação de São Bento (São Bento Railway Station) and on the lateral facade of Igreja do Carmo (Carmo Church). But my personal favorites are the residential buildings all covered in green, blue and red little tiles.😍

Top 3 Things To Do In Porto

In such a naturally gifted place, outdoor activities should be on top of your priorities.

Go On A Cruise

There are cruises departing daily from Cais de Gaia that go upriver to the Douro wine region . There are day trip cruises all the way up to one-week long rides for the most fierce wine and/or nature lovers.

In any case, the landscape is the selling point. Steep terraced vineyards dotted with quintas (farms) are a recipe for a very chilled day.

Learn More About Wine

Let’s start with the basics. The Douro wine region is one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in Europe and it’s most famous for the Port wine. Sweeter and stronger than general wines, it’s generally drank as a dessert wine.

Despite the somehow spooky experience – there are bats flying around – visiting the Port wine cellars is one of those experiences everyone must have in Porto . Not only you get to see the huge warehouses in which the barrels are kept but also you get to learn about the different types of grapes and vineyards, how to drink the wine from your glass and everything in between. Fascinating.

Most of the cellars stand uphill in Vila Nova de Gaia , just across the river, and make themselves visible from a long distance, with their names displayed in giant signs.

Most popular port wine cellars in Porto

Always remember: life is too short for cheap wine.

Go Out For Drinks In A Stylish Place

One of the things I enjoy the most when I’m in Porto is to go out for a drink. Going out to Galerias is very popular with locals and tourists on the weekends. These streets have the higher concentration of cool bars and discos I’ve seen.

I’m not talking about booze bars or Irish pubs. Like most of new architecture in Porto these are stylish and the best of all: with affordable prices! You can choose to stay inside or drink outside in the street, if the weather allows.

Best bars to go out in Porto

CaipiCompany . Start your evening with a fruit-based caipirinha .
Champanheria da Baixa . Boho-cool ambiance where the champagne is king.
Galerias de Paris . Once a fabric shop, this place was kept almost intact and is now a kitsch bar, café and restaurant.
Plano B . With a full-on retro look, it’s of the most iconic discos in Porto.
The Wall Bar . Great for either a quick glass of wine or a stylish night out with friends.

If this ain’t enough, Hotel Malaposta has an interesting selection .

A Weekend in Porto

Only got a weekend in Porto? Check out a detailed itinerary I used to do with my family and friends who were visiting. Read now >>

Tourist Traps in Porto 🙅

A few years ago, I would never include a section like this about Porto . The truth is this is a side effect of any tourism boom.

Mercado do Bolhão

The largest trap I see in Porto these days is Mercado do Bolhão . I can see the appeal of visiting local markets – trust me, it’s one of my favorite things to do – but there’s absolutely no reason this one.

Bolhão is a decrepit and ran-down market, with more souvenir stalls than actual local goodies. It’s so bad I fear for my safety when I look into the cracks in the building. The market is undergoing a 2-year renovation, so at least until end 2022 there’s no real reason to come here.

Majestic Café

Don’t get me wrong, I can see why this Belle Epoque cafe is so popular. It was once the meeting point of artists, writers and thinkers – the Elite (the first name of the place) of the city.

However be aware that the prices are an elegant form of robbery. If you’re on a budget, short down your visit to a photo and head to one of the cheaper options in Porto .

São João Festival

Most towns in Portugal celebrate their local holidays in honour of saints, with loads of fireworks, stalls and street parties involved.

It happens to be that São João ( Saint John ) is the patron saint of the city and one of the postcards of Porto.

São João do Porto festival happens every year in the night of the 23rd to 24th of June. The whole city goes out to the street and it’s guaranteed partying and dancing all night!

What to do during São João in Porto

Have a local dinner . Go for one the improvised street restaurants and have delicious grilled sardines.
Watch the huge fireworks show in Ribeira at midnight . Seriously, don’t miss it. Surely one of the best I’ve seen in my life!
Hit on each others’ heads with plastic hammers . Expect to hit and get hit obviously.
Light up a paper lantern . And make a wish.
Dance and party . The portuguese traditional popular music is catchy!
Buy a little manjerico . The little basil plants are the perfect gift.

Food in Porto 🥘

It’s time to loosen your belt. No, seriously. Food is a standalone reason to visit Portugal but in Porto things get even better. Food in northern Portugal is quite meat-based, but you still can find lots of fish and healthy stuff.

Apart from superbly seasoned food made with the best regional produce, portions are HUGE and prices are borderline ridiculous. You can easily grab a lunch menu for less than 6 euros. And if you’re having a dinner for more than 20 euros, well… it better be a VERY good one!

porto city guide what to eat francesinha

What to Eat in Porto

Francesinha . Probably one of the most caloric meals you’ll ever have but hey, save your diet for later. This massive sandwich on a platter dish has all the goods on it: cured meats, linguiça , steak, cheese, egg and a delicious beer-and-tomato sauce. Have it at lunch time rather than at the evening.
Pataniscas de Bacalhau . I associate this dish with typically homemade meals made by portuguese grandmas. Confectioned with cod (or octopus) mixed in a dough mixed with egg, flour, pepper, parsley and fried in vegetable oil. It’s served with beans or tomato rice.
Arroz de Pato . This tasty rice is made with duck meat with gratin cheese on top can be found at its best in Porto .
Pastries . Obviously don’t miss on the unbeatable pastel de nata , available at literally every pastelaria of the city. And there’s éclair . This pastry with sweet whipped cream filling is the highlight of Leitaria da Quinta do Paço .

My Favorite Places to Eat in Porto

Like I use to say, you got to be very unlucky to have a bad experience eating out in Porto . But I sure do have some favorite places with local food I always come back to:

Museu D’Avó . Literally translated as the Grandma Museum , it’s an extremely kitsch place with amazing portuguese “tapas”. Suggestion: go for the choriço !
Cervejaria Brasão . Many rate Santiago as the #1 Francesinha in Porto but the one from Brasão looks and tastes much batter. It’s made in a wood-fired oven and is so delicious you simply can’t dare to try anything else.
Árvore . Portuguese food presented in a modern way. The weekday lunch menu at 8,50 EUR is pricey for Porto standards, but the gorgeous view over Douro is more than worth it.
Taberna Santo António . This small family-run restaurant is a hidden gem but popular amongst locals especially during lunch time. Try the codfish pataniscas !

There’s more restaurant suggestions on my map with Porto sights .

Where to stay in Porto 🏨

A good side effect of gentrification (the only one?) in downtown Porto is the fresh new face it got. A few years ago the number of buildings in ruins was simply depressing. These days it’s a delight to see the colorful tiled historical constructions brighting up the city vibe and projecting it into a whole different era.

The obvious downside is that the vast majority of these buildings are serving as Airbnb rentals and the housing industry is now completely unbalanced. Owners are now much less keen on doing long-term rentals and the few of them who still do it, ask for ridiculously high rents that locals can’t afford.

That’s why I suggest for you to book a hotel via Booking.com which has less of an impact on the local housing market. Moral standards come into play here. From my experience, it’s less of a hassle to check-in, cleaning standards are higher and prices are not that different anyway.

Best Areas To Stay In Porto 🏨

Porto has got a relatively small city center so by staying anywhere in downtown you’ll be in walking distance from all the major sights.

With that said, my favorite areas to stay are Aliados , Bolhão and Trindade . These might not be the prettiest , but they are public transport hubs (bus, metro) and have great places to eat and shop nearby.

I’d avoid staying in Fontainhas and Heroísmo just because it has a history of being a problematic neighborhood (even though this is changing now). Ribeira and Rua das Flores areas are both charming places to stay, but they’re now SUPER touristy.

My top suggestions of places to stay in Porto

city guide of porto hotel accommodation value for money

Oporto Stories Apartments

Superbly located next to Bolhão market and to the main shopping street, this is a clean and modern place to stay in the heart of Porto. Book now

porto city guide travel hotel accommodation value for money

Casas do Rivoli

Not only I stayed here, but I lived here for 5 months. Exceptional minimal and modern decoration, impeccably maintained and extremely close to the beating heart of Porto , Aliados . Book now

Search on your own

To make your life easier, start searching with my pre-selection of best value-for-money hotels in Porto . This hotel shortlist only includes rooms in downtown Porto with WiFi and excellent reviews.

porto city guide cais de gaia things to do porto

Porto Day Trips

If you have extra time to explore the surroundings of Porto, well great, because indeed there’s a lot to do in Northern Portugal. I’ve listed some day trips from Porto before , but here are some of the most popular:

Foz : Quick and accessible bus ride from Porto, this posh area is where the Douro meets the Atlantic. Expect blue-flag beaches, great seafood and big seaside promenades.
Braga : One of the largest cities in Portugal is only about a 40-min ride by bus or train from Porto . Don’t miss the hilltop where Bom Jesus de Braga is located.
Guimarães : Nicknamed the birthplace of Portugal , where the first King of Portugal fought the Moorish for the independence of the country back in the 12th century (!). The whole medieval city center is lovely but Castelo de Guimarães (Guimarães castle) was a true highlight for me. Just a 30-min distance by train or bus.
Douro Valley : A must-go if you’re a wine or nature and/or wine lover. It’s a dreamy place where the Douro river winds right through impressive hills packed with Port Wine vineyards. There are several day cruises departing from Ribeira , but you can also hop on a 2h30 lovely train ride to Pinhão , right in the heart of the wine demarcated area. I suggest planning for 2-3 days in Douro !
Aveiro : The “Venice of Portugal” boasts colorful boats ( moliceiros ) in the traditional city canals. It’s about an hour train ride further south from Porto.

Porto Travel Review

I love Porto for its authenticity and kitsch vibe. I feel it’s a superb choice for a weekend trip . People treat you like you were a old friend, the food is simply awesome and I will never get tired of the views in the Ribeira district.

It’s an amazing value destination and somehow it still doesn’t feel as a tourist Disneyland like downtown Lisbon .

And there’s also the having fun part. I’m not a party animal – far from that actually! – but somehow Porto is one of the places I feel the urge of going out for drinks or even partying all night long. It’s cheap, people are super friendly, and it has some hell of cool places to choose from.

Porto is completely unpretentious and that’s exactly why I ALWAYS have a great time.

Useful Links

Visit Porto – the official tourism board of Porto & Northern Portugal
CP – the official train company in Portugal

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

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Porto. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Igreja de São Francisco

Igreja de São Francisco looks from the outside to be an austerely Gothic church, but inside it hides one of Portugal’s most dazzling displays of baroque…

PORTO, PORTUGAL - AUGUST 22, 2013: Art deco villa in Serralves Gardens in the city of Porto, Portugal; Shutterstock ID 335447633; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

Foz do Douro

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

From Praça da Ribeira rises a tangle of medieval alleys and stairways that eventually reach the hulking, hilltop fortress of the cathedral. Founded in the…

National Museum Soares dos Reis located in the ancient Carrancas Palace, in Porto, Portugal; Shutterstock ID 233117197; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis

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

Palácio da Bolsa

This splendid neoclassical monument (built from 1842 to 1910) honours Porto’s past and present money merchants. Just past the entrance is the glass-domed…

Jardins do Palacio de Cristal, Porto, Portugal ; Shutterstock ID 233117089; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

Sitting atop a bluff, this gorgeous botanical garden is one of Porto's best-loved escapes, with lawns interwoven with sun-dappled paths and dotted with…

Casa da Música

At once minimalist, iconic and daringly imaginative, the Casa da Música is the beating heart of Porto's cultural scene and the home of the Porto National…

Detail of Sao Bento Train station in Oporto. The first train arrived here in 1896, but the building (designed with a French Renaissance touch) opened in 1903.; Shutterstock ID 7016608; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

São Bento Train Station

Aliados & Bolhão

One of the world's most beautiful train stations, beaux arts São Bento wings you back to a more graceful age of rail travel. Completed in 1903, it seems…

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Cemitério do Prado Repouso

This was Porto’s first public cemetery when it was inaugurated in 1839. It is considered an important landmark for its neo-Gothic architecture and…

Igreja da Lapa

The Igreja da Lapa Catholic church holds particular significance in Porto as the place where Portugal’s former king and first emperor of Brazil’s heart is…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

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

Best Neighborhoods

From sightseeing to places to stay, get to know the vibrant city of Porto with this neighborhood guide.

Porto is an ideal launch pad to visit other towns, cities and regions in northern Portugal. Here are five great day trips from Porto.

Money and Costs

The top 13 ways to save money on a trip to Portugal's captivating northern city. Here's how to visit Porto on a budget.

Transportation

Learn the best ways to get around the city, whether you’re looking for speedy service, eco-friendly travel or transport that offers panoramic views.

Spending Diaries

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Porto and beyond

Porto in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

What to Do in One Day in Porto

Rising from the banks of the mighty Douro river, Porto is an intimate city that packs a real punch. Charismatic, cool and with a lively cafe and bar scene, enjoy the laid-back vibe as you wander, discover and taste all the delights the city has to offer with our one day Porto itinerary.

In this Porto travel guide, you’ll find a complete itinerary of all the most important must see Porto attractions, with an interactive map, organised to make the best use of your time.

We also share recommendations for central places to stay, ideas about where to eat local food, and tips about how to make the most of your 24 hours in Porto.

When to Visit Porto

Porto is a coastal city in the north of Portugal and enjoys hot summers , pleasantly warm spring and autumn months and mild, wet winters .

The best time to visit Porto is late spring or early autumn . There will be fewer visitors and better deals on travel and accommodation, but the weather will still be lovely with warm sunshine and little rain.

Is this your first time visiting Portugal? Get all the information you need in our Portugal Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Porto Trip Resources

Fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport

Drive in from Europe or hire a car in Portugal

Travel Insurance

Medical costs, delays and lost luggage

Getting to Porto

When flying to Porto you will arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport , which is located around 13km north of the city. The best way to get to the city from the airport is by Metro. You will need to take the E line (purple) which will take you to Trindade the main metro station in Porto, the trains leave every 20-30 mins, dependent on the day & time, and takes about 27 mins.

You will need to buy an Andante Card from one of the ticket machines at the airport for 50c, you then add your journey to this card, you can use this card for your entire stay and top it up at the ticket machines at any metro station. Once tickets have been loaded to your Andante card you need to validate them before you get on the train, your ticket will last for one hour once validated, if you change lines at any point in your journey you will need to validate your ticket again, do not validate on your way out.

You can also take a bus to the city, Get Bus leaves every hour on the hour and takes 25mins to Campanha Bus Station, which is a little bit out of the centre, so you will then need to take another bus or metro to your required destination.

You can also book a private transfer from the airport with Klook directly to your accommodation in the city. Klook works with a large range of local operators to bring the the best options and prices for your transfer.

Where to Stay in Porto

Luxury: Torel Palace Porto – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Oca Flores Boutique Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Porta Nobre – Exclusive Living Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Hostel: The Passenger Hostel – Booking.com | Agoda

Things to See & Do in Porto

Is one day enough in porto.

We think so! Follow our one day in Porto itinerary around this very walkable city and you’ll find all of the major attractions are within easy reach of the city centre. Be prepared for aching calves if you’re not used to hills.

If you want to have your Porto one day itinerary organised for you by a tour guide or find a Porto walking tour, then check out these highly rated Porto tours .

If you fall in love with Porto ad want to explore further, try this three day Porto itinerary .

Day Trips to Porto from Lisbon

If you want to see Porto in a day but are staying in Lisbon, then get the train or take a Lisbon day trip to Porto. You can take a high speed train from Lisbon to Porto , arriving in around three hours.

Trains from Lisbon to Porto start around 8am and the last Porto to Lisbon train leaves at around 8pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the city and visit all the Porto must see attractions. Expect to pay around €25 each way.

An organised day trip to Porto from Lisbon is another great way to see the city, with the added bonus of a guide to show you to all the best things to do in Porto. Check out these private Porto tours for the best options.

RELATED POST: Driving from Lisbon to Porto: Itinerary, Route & Tips

Interactive Map of Your Porto Itinerary

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Climb the Arrabida Bridge

In 1963, the Arrábida Bridge was the largest concrete arch bridge in the world. Since 2016, the concrete arch bridge is the only one in Europe open to visitors.

Start your day early and take a unique opportunity to climb a national monument and building that has been closed to the public for 53 years. With a guide and all the safety equipment provided, climbing this iconic bridge is actually pretty easy – we think it’s one of the best things to do in Porto.

You will need to arrange a taxi, public transport or even a tuk-tuk to get to the bridge from the city center, unless you’re up for a good 50 minute walk to start your day. Book here and make sure to take a camera, the views are incredible!

TOP TIP: If you’re planning on these types of activities, you will need travel insurance which covers you for high risk sports. We recommend True Traveller , who offer this type of cover as standard.

Visit the Cathedral of Porto

At the highest point of the city is Porto Cathedral , or Sé do Porto. Predominantly Baroque in style, with a Romanesque facade and nave and the cloister and one of the chapels being Gothic, it is the most important religious edifice in the city and has been declared a National Monument.

The construction of the Cathedral began during the twelfth century, but it was rebuilt and renovated numerous times throughout the centuries. This explains why the Cathedral is a mix of architectural styles. The cathedral is free to enter.

Climb the Clerigos Tower

Across town and downhill from the cathedral, the Clérigos Tower is the tallest campanile, or bell tower, in Portugal. Standing 76m tall, this iconic Porto tower has a fantastic view of the city and river.

Climb the 200 or so steps for a really breathtaking (and breathless) view from the tower’s observation deck over Porto.

This is also a great place to take photos of the cityscape. Book your skip the line tickets in advance , queues on the day are often long.

Buy a Book at Livraria Lello (or not!)

Livraria Lello is one of the oldest and most beautiful bookshops in the world and reportedly inspired JK Rowling when she was writing the Harry Potter novels.

This magnificent building and bookshop on Rua das Carmelitas has been spoiled by the 4,000 visitors a day eager to get that instagram shot, huge queues and a fee to enter. What if you just want to buy a book?

Admire the Tiles at the Sao Bento Station

The azulejos (tiles) at the São Bento train station are are a must see in Porto and really beautiful.

Just south of Porto’s most grandiose thoroughfare, Avenida dos Aliados, São Bento station is a stunning French Beaux-Arts structure which was built in 1900. It’s easy to pop in on your way past and marvel at this beautiful railway station.

The walls of the ticket hall are lined with 20,000 magnificent antique blue and white hand-painted ceramic tiles depicting Portugal’s history, from royalty to wars and everything in between. The tiles were laid over a period of 11 years, between 1905 and 1916, by artist Jorge Colaço.

Eat Pastéis de Nata in the Old Town

These delicious custard tarts are a staple of cafe life in Porto, in fact anywhere in Portugal. If you don’t think you’re a custard tart sort of person, try one in Porto and be converted.

These little beauties will cost you around €1 each. Have one with a coffee at the Majestic Cafe , one of the most beautiful and romantic spots in Porto, which you will no doubt come across when wandering the historic heart of the atmospheric old town.

TOP TIP: Pasteis de Nata are best eaten warm, straight from the oven with the pastry crispy and the rich custard filling bubbling and caramelised on top.

Cross the Pont Luis I Bridge & Take the Cable Car

The iconic Pont Luis I Bridge is a top tourist attraction in Porto and a crazy busy pedestrian thoroughfare on both its levels, the lower of which carries vehicles across the river.

The double-decked metal arch Dom Luis bridge is a real feat of engineering and spans 172m. When constructed in 1880 it was the longest of its type in the world and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The bridge takes you from the Porto side of the Douro river into Vila Nova de Gaia, where you will find port lodges and bars and restaurants cheek by jowl along the river front. This is one of the best places to visit in Porto, it’s lively, vibrant and fun.

Head up the steps from the Ribeira (or take the lift) to cross the top section of the bridge, then take the Teleferico de Gaia (cable car) down to the port lodges on the other side…..or cross at the bottom of the bridge and do the reverse coming back.

Either way, it’s a great experience, the views over Porto are stunning, and the bridge is a real hub of activity.

Take a Port Wine Tour

A highlight and one of the top things to do in Porto is a tour of a port wine lodge with a port wine tasting included. These historic lodges, found on the banks of the Douro in Vila Nova de Gaia, were storage and despatch warehouses for port wine, produced in the gorgeous Douro valley to the east of Porto.

There are many names you will recognise such as Taylors and Sandemans, all of whom have bars along the river front as you come down from the bridge.

The port wine cellars are fascinating buildings in themselves and smell wonderful. Many of them have not been renovated since being built in the 17th century – you can admire their architecture and unique style, whilst dodging the holes in the roof!

There are lots of tours on offer, from a whole day to just an hour. The best tours will take you to a number of different houses with tastings included, alongside guidance from local port experts.

If port is not your thing, you can take a wine tour from Porto into the Douro Valley to one of the many wineries there.

Stroll Along the Cais de Ribeira

On the opposite bank of the Douro to the port lodges, the Ribeira is the place to promenade in Porto. Here you will find restaurants and bars to suit every taste and budget, with a a focus on seafood.

The national dish of salt cod is loved by the Portuguese and has to be tried, although it is an acquired taste. You can easily while away an afternoon or evening here, people watching and soaking up the happy and lively atmosphere.

Other Portuguese Travel Ideas

Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries
One Day Lisbon Itinerary with Map & Tips
Covao Dos Conchos – Getting Up Close
Driving to Portugal from UK – Routes & Tips
Motorhoming & Campervanning in Portugal – All You Need to Know!

Take a Douro River Cruise

Cruise under all of Porto’s iconic bridges and enjoy unique views of Porto and Villa Nova de Gaia from the tranquil waters of the Douro River. This highly rated tour follows in the footsteps of port merchants on a classic ‘Six Bridges’ cruise of Porto, along the route of the old “Rabello Boats” that served Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Listen to Fado

Fado is the expressive melancholic music of Portugal which is played in pubs and cafes across the country and has World Heritage status.

Usually played on one or two string guitars or violas and accompanied by singing full of heartfelt emotion, the music is slow and invokes feelings of longing and sadness.

Fado is not truly a part of Porto’s heritage though, and you’ll have a better experience in Lisbon or Coimbra. If you can only visit Porto and really want to hear fado, head for Casa de Guitarra , a shop which specialises in stringed instruments for traditional Portuguese music, to listen to the music with a glass of local port.

TOP TIP: You can hear fado played live (and free) by street bands, especially along the Ribeira and along the river front in Vila Nova de Gaia – you may find a ten minute stint is enough to satisfy your curiosity.

Where to Eat in Porto

Cervejaria gazela.

Head to Cerevejaria Gazela on your way to the Pont Luis bridge to sample cachorrinho, Portugal’s take on a hot-dog crossed with a toasted sandwich. Thin crusty bread is filled with fresh sausage, grilled, brushed with a spicy piri piri sauce then cut into bite-sized pieces.

At the Gazela Brewery, they are famed for their version, which you can enjoy with a fino (tap beer) and fries.

They also serve the famous francesinha, a meat-fest of a sandwich covered in melted cheese and spicy sauce.

Touted as a national dish, and with Porto restaurants all stating with conviction that they make the best francesinha in town, there is a reason this one hasn’t taken off outside of Portugal!

Taberna dos Mercadores

You’ll find Taberna dos Mercadores down a narrow alley just off the busy streets of the Ribeira district. Serving traditional Portuguese and classic regional dishes alongside wines from the Douro and Alentejo regions in a contemporary and cool space,

Their speciality is the açorda de marisco , a stew of stale bread, garlic, vinegar, coriander, eggs and seafood, which is absolutely delicious.

You’ll need to book in advance as the restaurant only seats 20.

Top Five Porto Travel Tips

The hop on hop off Porto bus has limited options in this compact and pedestrian city. Much of what you will want to see is not accessible to the bus and there are huge lengths of the journey without commentary, but it may be a good way to get around if you’re staying a little longer.
Consider a Porto Card which will give you discounts on public transport, free museum entry and 50% of a port wine tour. Work out exactly what you want to see before buying though – follow our one day itinerary and this card won’t save you much.
If you’re planning on visiting Porto over the Festival of São João (the city’s patron saint), held on the 23rd June every year, it will be expensive and accommodation will get booked up quickly, so make sure you plan well in advance.
You may see Porto being referred to Oporto online. This is actually incorrect and comes from a mispronunciation started by the British eons ago. Just so you know…
If you do decide to get a taxi in Porto, drivers in the city are notorious for negotiating a price and not using their meter. This inevitably means you’ll be ripped off. Find a driver whose happy to use the meter as intended.

More Than One Day in Porto?

If you want to visit Porto in two days or have an extra half a day in Porto, there are lots of other attractions you can add to your itinerary.

Igreja de Sao Fransisco

Visit the Igreja de São Francisco (or Monument Church of St Francis) located in the historic centre and the most prominent Gothic monument in Porto, noted for its stunning Baroque inner decoration.

Hang out in Foz do Douro

Hire a tuk-tuk or e-bike and head along the north bank of the river to the Foz do Douro district and Felgueiras Lighthouse. Promenade along Avenida do Brasil, past the sandy beaches and rocky shoreline to the 17th century Fort of Saint Francis Xavier , built as a deterrent to French, Dutch and British corsairs who pillaged the lands and stole Portuguese boats.

Take a Douro Valley Tour

Take a Douro Valley tour. The Douro Valley is known for its breathtaking landscapes that produce some of the best port wines and olive oil in Portugal. You can tour the Douro valley by boat, by bike or by car. Check out these top Douro valley tours from Porto for ideas and inspiration.

Fátima and Coimbra Full Day Tour from Porto

If you take one day trip from Porto, take this highly rated and well organized day trip from Porto to Coimbra and Fatima .

Explore the Shrine of Fatima to experience one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites, with the option to attend a mass at the sanctuary. This then hour tour also goes to the beautiful historic city of Coimbra , home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

With a professional guide to offer insights, an organized tour is the perfect opportunity to see more of Spain in less time!

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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.

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/

Fundação de Serralves Museu de Arte Contemporânea (Contemporary Art Museum)

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

Centro Português de Fotografia (Portuguese Center of Photography)

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.

More on Portugal

18 Best Things to Do in Porto You Can’t Really Miss – Travel Guide + Map

🌍Where is Porto

Porto is located in northern Portugal, about 315 Km north of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Nestled in the River Douro Estuary, Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest settlements in Europe. River Douro is famous for the production of Port, a popular fortified wine, which is named after this city. The Atlantic coast lies just about 5 km from Porto.

Porto has been an important port since the Roman times around 135 BC, when its name was Portus Cale. The name of Portugal originated from there. Porto became a major shipbuilding hub of the country in the 15th century, and it played a prominent role in the Age of Discoveries.

Best Time to Visit Porto

Porto has a Mediterranean climate with hot and sunny summers and a mild, rainy winter. The temperate oceanic climate makes the city much colder than Lisbon and Algarve. Each season presents something unique to experience. So, it’s better to know what to expect.

🌞 Peak Season : The summer months, June to September, are the high tourist season in Porto with beautiful warm sunny weather. Also, you would get to see many festivals happening during these months. The days are long, hot and dry, with an average temperature of over 25ºC from July to September. A great time to enjoy the beaches on the Porto coast. The water temperature is comfortably warm enough for swimming and snorkelling. June and July are the hottest months . Bear in mind that it gets super crowded in summer. So, hotel prices go up very quickly. Also, expect long queues at the attractions.

🍂 Shoulder Season : The Late Spring and autumn are probably the best time to visit Porto . The weather stays pleasantly warm and sunny, and the days are long enough. Although, you might experience some slight occasional downpours. Tourist attractions are much less crowded than during the summer months. Also, the hotels are relatively cheaper.

🏔️ Low Season : The winter months November to February, are the low seasons in Porto. Winter here is mild, wet and relatively warm from the rest of the European countries. You can expect about 5 – 6 hours of daylight. The average temperature in winter remains at 14ºC. January and February are the coldest months.

How Many Days to Spend in Porto

We would suggest spending at least two days in Porto. It should give you enough time to visit the main tourist attractions of the city alongside the Vila Nova de Gaia neighbourhood. This city is an ideal choice for a weekend city break in Europe.

But if you want to explore every nook and crannies and really want to know the heart of this amazing city, you can easily add a few more days to your travel itinerary. Also, there are some excellent day trip options from Porto. It will certainly keep you busy. You won’t get bored. So finally, it really depends on your travel style and how much you want to explore.

Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal

1. fall in love with porto cathedral.

With over 850 years of history, Porto Cathedral is one of the most prominent religious and architectural attractions of the city . Sitting over a hilltop in the old historic centre of Porto, this imposing cathedral is also one of the oldest buildings of the city and is referred to as Sé do Porto in Portuguese.

The construction of the church started in the second half of the 12th century. Throughout history, it went through many transformations. Many parts of the building were rebuilt or added in later centuries. One of the interesting things you would notice is that the Porto cathedral has three distinct architectural styles – Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic.

This monument has witnessed many historic moments in Portugal’s history. This site was used by the kings and the queens for marriages, baptisms and other religious ceremonies. After admiring the fortress-like exteriors, step inside the cathedral. Here you will find an exquisitely ornate silver altarpiece, sacred sculptures and a few smaller chapels.

Pay a small fee to see the 14th-century gothic cloister adjacent to the cathedral. The walls are decorated with impressive white and blue azulejos tiles, depicting stories from the holy book. The small treasury nearby showcases a great collection of early Christian artefacts of the cathedral.

Climb the stairs to visit the cathedral towers. From here, you will get an excellent panoramic view of the city’s rooftops, the Douro River and the famous Dom Luis I Bridge.

Where to find : Porto Cathedral is within walking distance from the Sao Bento Train Station.

Entrance Fees : Entry to the cathedral is free. But you have to pay €3 to visit the cloisters and the tower.

Opening Hours : April – October 9 am – 6:30 pm. November – March 9 am – 5:30 pm.

2. Cross the Iconic Dom Luis I Bridge

Spanning the River Douro, the Dom Luis I Bridge is one of the most important architectural landmarks of Porto . This magnificent engineering feat is a must-visit tourist attraction in the city. Arguably the most striking of all the bridges in Porto, this double-decker metal bridge connects the historic Ribeira with the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Named after the Portuguese King Luis I, the Dom Luis I Bridge took five years to complete and was opened to the public in 1886. At that time, it was the largest spanning metal bridge in the world. It was designed by the German architect, Teophile Seyrig – a disciple of famous French engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.

The structure stands at 85 metres in height and spans over 172 metres in length. Today, the Porto Metro services run through the upper level of the bridge, and the lower one carries the road traffics. Both the levels have pedestrian access. Take a boat cruise on the river to get a different perspective of this iconic attraction in Porto. Dom Luís I Bridge has structural similarities with the nearby Maria Pia Bridge.

Top Tips : Walk both levels of the bridge. If you cross the bridge on the upper level, come back through the low level. You will get one of the best views of the Porto skyline. The view from the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar at the end of the bridge is one of our favourites – an excellent spot for catching a lovely sunset over the city and the bridge.

Where to find : The nearest metro station to the bridge is Jardim do Morro in the Metro service line D. Also, from the São Bento Station, it is around a 10-15 minutes walk.

3. Take a Relaxing Boat Trip along the Douro River

The Douro River has played a key role in the prosperity and the development of Porto and the nearby area. For centuries, the river has been used to transport port wine from the Douro Valley. From Porto, the goods and barrels were traded and exported around the world.

Take a boat cruise to see the six bridges over the Douro River. It is one of the best family-friendly fun things to do in Porto . Different boat companies run this trip regularly throughout the day. The tour takes place on a traditional wooden Portuguese Rabelo boat . Until the railway line, these boats were the popular mode of transportation.

In this 50-minutes relaxing trip, you will get a chance to see the popular attractions of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia from a different and unique perspective. Also, learn about the history of the six magnificent bridges over the Douro.

The first bridge you will come across is the famous 19th-century double-decker bridge, Don Luis I , designed by Téophile Seyrig. Afterwards, you will see the beautiful Arrábida Bridge at the mouth of the river. It is possible to climb the arch of the bridge on a guided tour.

Next, you see the Maria Pia Bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, known for the world-famous Eiffel Tower. Also, you will find the Infante Dom Henrique Bridge, São João Bridge and Freixo Bridge at the far east of Porto, towering over the Douro River.

Where to find : Boat leaves from the Vila Nova de Gaia Pier and Ribeira Dock.

Entrance Fees : Usually €15 per person.

Operating Hours : Daily hourly. In summer, the first departure is 10 am and the last departure 6 pm. In winter, the first departure is 11 am and the last departure 4 pm.

4. Spot Beautiful Azulejo Tiles around Porto

One of the most iconic things to do in Porto would be exploring the azulejo tiles. These glazed ceramic tiles are found almost everywhere in this city – from historic buildings to churches, train stations to fountains, benches in public parks to restaurants. They are an integral part of Porto’s culture and heritage.

Azulejo originated from Arabic word, al zellige, which translates to ‘polished stone’. This art form first came to southern Spain in the 13 th century during the Moorish period in Iberian Peninsula. It was brought to Portugal by King Manuel I from Seville, Spain in the 15 th century. In the early days, it was simple geometric patterns like birds and flowers. But throughout centuries it evolved into a more ornate and intricate art form telling religious stories, battles, seafaring stories of the country. We saw many beautiful azulejos in Lisbon as well.

The colours are predominantly blue and white , being influenced by the Age of Discoveries. However, you can also spot a tinge of yellow and green sometimes.

Sao Bento Station at the heart of Porto has one of the finest works of azulejos. It was painted in the early 20 th century by Jorge Colaco – a famous azulejo painter. Porto Cathedral , Capela das Almas, Igreja do Carmo, Casa da Musica are some of the places where you can spot some beautiful examples of azulejos.

5. Admire the Panoramic Views from Clerigos Tower

The 76-meter high Clerigos Tower is an icon of Porto . This stunning Baroque bell tower dominates the city skyline. Climbing the tower to see the bird’s eye view of the surroundings is one of the best things to do in Porto. Also, it is the highest building in the city .

Clerigos Tower dates back to the 18th century. It was built for the Brotherhood of Clerigos. The tower and adjacent church were designed by famous Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. He also designed many other buildings in the north of Portugal.

To enjoy the view from the tower, you have to climb almost 240 steps . The climb is not for the faint-hearted. As you approach the top, the stairs get very steep and narrow – it might feel claustrophobic for some. But the stunning view is well worth the effort. You will get an amazing aerial view of Porto.

Once you get down from the tower, wander around the church. The building architect, Nicolau Nasoni, is buried in the crypt. Also, take a look inside the adjourning museum. It has a collection of religious sculptures and paintings, and the entry is included in your ticket.

Best Tips : Due to its popularity, it can get very busy sometimes, especially in peak tourist seasons. So, try to be here early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid standing in a long queue. Also, one of the best times to visit is during sunset.

Where to find : Clerigos Tower is just a 5-minute walk from the Sao Bento Station.

Entrance Fees : The church is free to visit. But you have to pay €6 for the tower.

Opening Hours : Every day from 9 am to 7 pm. The tower remains open till late nights in a few summer months.

6. Browse Books in Livraria Lello

Often called one of the most beautiful bookshops in the World , Livraria Lello has been helping book lovers find their next book for over 100 years. It is one of Portugal’s oldest bookshops and one of the highlights for those visiting Porto. Probably you have already seen stunning pictures of this place on social media. It is one of the most photographed places in Porto.

This bookshop was opened in 1906 by the brothers José and António Lello. The Neo-Gothic structure and the Art Nouveau interior of this bookshop were designed by Francisco Xavier Esteves. At the centre of the store is its iconic winding staircase. Admire the beautifully decorated intricate details of the imposing ceiling. It may look like wood but is actually made of painted plaster. The colourful stained glass skylight provides a ton of natural light.

You will find an impressive collection of books written by Portuguese authors. They also have an international section where you will find the English translations.

It is rumoured that the Lello bookstore has a Harry Potter connection . Author J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto for a couple of years, is thought to have drawn inspiration for Hogwarts from this place. But, recently the author clarified on Twitter that she never visited this bookshop and never even knew of its existence.

Potterheads will enjoy a visit to the Scottish capital city, Edinburgh , where Rowling penned some of the Harry Potter books sitting in a cafe. Also, ride the famous Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William – seen as the Hogwarts Express in the movies.

Regardless of the Harry Potter hype, Livraria Lello is a magical place and definitely worth a visit.

Tip : Livraria Lello is one of the busiest attractions in Porto. It gets thousands of visitors per day. So, we will recommend buying your entrance tickets online in advance and getting there as early as possible to avoid the crowd.

Where to find : Livraria Lello is just around 5-7 minutes from the Sao Bento Station by foot. To reach Sao Bento from other parts of Porto, catch the metro service line D.

Entrance Fees : €5 per person, if you book your ticket online from their website. It is €6 if you buy on site. You can redeem the ticket price over the purchased books.

Opening Hours : Daily 09:30 am to 7:00 pm.

7. Uncover Bolsa Palace’s Unique Past

Set in the historic centre of Porto, Bolsa Palace used to house the city’s Stock Exchange. Founded in the 19th century, this ornate building shows the wealth and opulence of the merchants and traders in this city.

This historic neoclassical Palladian-style structure was built over the ruins of the nearby Saint Francis convent. Today, it is one of the top visitor attractions in Porto and serves as the headquarters of the Porto Commercial Association.

The interior of the palace is only accessible by guided tours . Tours are mainly conducted in Portuguese, Spanish, French and English, and run very frequently. It lasts for around half an hour. You can buy tickets online as well.

One of the highlights of the tour is the incredibly ornate Arab Room . It took almost 18 years to build this room. It was designed by Goncalves e Sousa in the Moorish Revival style, drawing inspiration from the renowned Alhambra Palace in Granada. Admire the stunning central courtyard on the ground floor. Covered by an octagonal iron dome, it was the original trading floor of the building. Here you will find the coat of arms of several countries around the World with whom Portugal had long-standing good business relationships in the 19th century.

The tour will take you to many beautifully decorated rooms of the palace – like Tribunal Room, Assembly Room and Golden Room. They are filled with many historic furniture, paintings and sculptures. You will even find a cabinet used by the famous French engineer, Gustav Eiffel.

Where to find : Bolsa Palace is around 7-8 minutes walk from the Porto Cathedral and the Sao Bento Train Station.

Entrance Fees : Adult ticket costs € 10.

Opening Hours : Every day 9 am – 6:30 pm.

8. Marvel at Beautiful Azulejo Tiles at Sao Bento Station

Sao Bento Railway Station is arguably one of the prettiest railway stations in Portugal . Although the exterior looks quite simple, the stunningly detailed Portuguese azulejos tiles inside the station will certainly leave you spellbound. Visiting Sao Bento Station is one of the best things to do in Porto.

The site, where the station stands today, used to be a Benedictine monastery. In fact, the station gets its name from that monastery. Constructed in French Beaux-Arts style, this place became operational in 1916. Today, Sao Bento is the main terminal of Porto’s suburban railway lines and is located in the historic centre of the city. Many tourist attractions of Porto are within walking distance from here.

A National Monument of Portugal , this station is famous for its elaborate tin-glazed white and blue-tiled murals. They are designed by painter Jorge Colaco, who also created the tiles for the nearby Church of Saint Ildefonso. There are approximately 20000 azulejo tiles adorning the walls of Sao Bento’s entrance hall. It took nearly eleven years to complete these murals.

They display significant historical moments of Portugal – like the battle of Valdevez and the conquest of Ceuta. Also, there are illustrations of different modes of transportation and the daily life of the country.

Where to find : Porto Metro service line D runs through Sao Bento Station. Also, there are frequent buses and trains to Sao Bento Station from other parts of the city.

9. See Porto's Finest View from Miradouro da Serra do Pilar

Located at an elevated plane in the Vila Nova de Gaia neighbourhood, the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar provides one of the best views of Porto. Just a short uphill walk from the Jardim do Morro metro station, this viewpoint is a must-visit for anyone visiting this Portuguese city.

You will get breathtaking views of Dom Luis I bridge, the River Douro, the Ribeira and the bridges connecting Porto. Although the view is great at any time of the day, we would highly recommend coming here during the sunset. Watching the sun go down the city rooftops is an amazing experience. The view is stunning at night as well.

Adjacent to the viewing terrace is the Monastery of Serra do Pilar, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction work for the monastery began in the 15th century for the Augustinian Friars. Later, this monastery was used during the war due to its strategic location. Today some part of it is used by the army.

The circular structure of the church and the cloister is one of its kind in Portugal. You can buy a ticket to see the 36 ionic columns in the church cloisters. Also, if interested, you can climb the dome of the monastery.

Where to find : Ride the metro service on line D to Jardim do Morro. The viewpoint is just a few minutes uphill walk from the metro station.

Entrance Fees : Viewpoint is free. Monastery of Serra do Pilar ticket costs €2 per person and €4 if you want to climb the dome.

Opening Hours : Viewpoint is open and accessible all the time. But the monastery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6:30 pm and closed on Monday.

10. Go on a Port Winery Tour

Porto is most famous for the port wine. Port got its name from this city where the fortified wines, produced from the grapes of the nearby Douro Valley, are exported to other countries in the world.

In Vila Nova de Gaia at the south of Porto, there are plenty of historic port lodges on the bank of River Douro. Port is aged and bottled in these port lodges before shipment. Some of these port lodges are over 350 years old. Port wine tasting is definitely one of the best things to do in Porto.

Sandeman Port House: Sandeman Port House is one of the oldest and most renowned port houses in Porto. Founded in 1790, they offer different types of guided tasting tours that run from 50 minutes to 3 hours.

The guides wear capes and sombrero hats. Their standard tour lasts about 50 minutes and costs 17 euros per adult. You will learn a lot of history of this port house and the production process.

At the end of the tour, you will get to taste three different port wines – white, ruby and tawny.

Calem Port House: Established in 1859, Calem is one of the best-selling port manufacturers in Porto. They run guided tasting tours in four different languages. With the standard tour, you will have a tasting of two different port wines, and with the premier tour, they will offer you to taste three different port wines, including some of their vintages.

Also, you will have the option to include food pairing or a Fado show in your tasting tour. All their tours include an interactive museum which is quite unique.

Also, Graham, Burmester, and Taylors are well-recommended Port Houses that offer port tasting tours.

11. Enjoy a Vintage Tram Ride

Riding the vintage tram is one of the fun things to do in Porto, especially if you are travelling with kids. Tram began operating in Porto in the late 19th century. In fact, this was the first city in Portugal to have tram services, followed by Lisbon. Once there was an extensive network of trams around the city. But in the 1960s, due to other cheaper modes of transportation, tram service got discontinued. Today only three tram routes remain, mostly used by tourists and a few locals.

Among the three routes, tram line 1 is the most scenic and the most popular one. You can ride it from the Infante stop, located right in front of the Monument Church Of St Francis. It follows the path along the northern bank of River Douro to Foz, one of the beautiful coastal areas in Porto. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful views along the way. You will get a magnificent view of the Arrabida Bridge. The entire journey takes about 20 minutes.

Tram lines 18 and 22 are not as popular as tram line 1, but they cover some of the popular historic attractions of Porto. Both the tram services follow a circular route. Line 18 starts from the Tram Museum and terminates near the Igreja do Carmo. Tram line 22 gives stops at Clerigos Tower, Sao Bento Metro Station, Batalha, Bolhão, Avenida dos Aliados.

Ticket Price : A single fare on the tram is €3.50 per person, and a return fare is €6 per person. A 2-days pass will cost you €10 per adult and €5 per child.

Tips : Tram line 1 can get very busy during peak hours. To avoid the crowd, ride the tram early in the morning or late in the evening.

If you are interested in learning about the history of trams in Porto, we would suggest visiting the Porto Tram Museum.

12. Visit Igreja do Carmo

Igreja do Carmo is one of the prettiest churches in Porto . It is hard to realise at first glance, there are two separate churches joined by a very narrow house. The house in the middle was constructed to keep the nun and monks of the churches separate from each other.

Igreja do Carmo was built in the second half of the 18th century, and the neighbouring Igreja dos Carmelitas was made in the mid-17th century.

The side facade of Igreja do Carmo is decorated with beautiful white and blue ceramic tiles. This baroque church is a must-visit for anyone wanting to see and photograph the beautiful azulejos in Porto.

The tiles were made in the nearby Vila Nova de Gaia and put on the wall in 1912. Designed by Silvestro Silvestri, it portrays scenes from the history of the Carmelite order and Mount Carmel.

Very close to the church, you will find the Fonte dos Leões , a fountain built for over 130 years, featuring four metal lion statues. It’s a nice little place to sit and relax.

If you are in this area, visit other nearby landmarks of Porto. A few meters from the church is the Livraria Lello. Also, the Clerigos Tower and church is just a few minute’s walks from here.

Where to find : The nearest metro station from Igreja do Carmo is Aliados, on the metro line D. From the station, the church is around 8 minutes walk away. Also, São Bento Station is not far from here.

Opening Hours : Both the churches are open Monday to Friday from 7:15 am to 7 pm; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 9 am to 6:45 pm.

Entrance Fees : The church is free to visit. But if you want to visit the Carmo museum, catacombs and Casa Escondida, you need to buy a ticket for €3.50 per person.

13. Discover the Chapel of Souls

Known as Capela das Almas in Portuguese, the Chapel of Souls is located at the heart of Porto’s main shopping hub, Rua de Santa Catarina, in Santo Ildefonso district.

This small chapel is famous for the stunning Portuguese tile art covering its exterior. It is one of the best places to see the beautiful azulejos in Porto. The Chapel of Souls was built in the 18th century. But the ceramic tiles you see today were placed in 1929. There are a total of 15,947 tiles designed by Eduardo Leche. The mural on the wall displays religious stories from the lives of the saints the chapel is devoted to – St. Catherine of Alexandria and St. Francis of Assisi.

After admiring the outside of the church, take a look inside. The neo-classical interior is simple but beautiful, with stained glass windows and a decorated altarpiece.

Tips : The Chapel of Souls stands near a junction of two busy roads. Come early in the morning to photograph the church without traffic and people.

This area is filled with bijou cafes and restaurants. Try some of the most delicious pastéis de nata in Porto at Manteigaria, Confeitaria do Bolhão and Fábrica da Nata.

Where to find : The chapel is just a stone’s throw away from the Bolhão metro station. Line A, B, C and F of Porto Metro runs from here.

Entrance Fees : Free

Opening Hours : Daily 7:30 am – 7 pm.

14. Eat Delicious Portuguese Sandwich - Francesinha

When you are in Porto, you will have to try Francesinha – the most traditional Portuguese food associated with this city. Francesinha is a Portuguese adaption of Croque-monsieur (ham and cheese hot sandwich) that originated in France. Francesinha means ‘Little Frenchie’ in Portuguese. Legend has it a French immigrant customised Croque-monsieur to the taste of Portugal using some local ingredients when he moved to Porto. That’s how Francesinha became a popular food in Porto.

Francesinha is a sandwich made of bread, ham, steak, linguica (smoked Portuguese sausage) and melted cheese on top . It’s not that kind of a sandwich though that you can eat by hand. It usually comes with spicy tomato and beer sauce. However, it varies a bit depending on the restaurants. French fries and runny eggs are popular accompaniments with this dish. It doesn’t sound like the healthiest food on earth – but hey, who counts calories on holidays! Restaurante O Afonso , Cafe Santiago and Brasao Aliados are some of the best Francesinha in Porto .

If you are a vegetarian, don’t worry. Some restaurants like Lado B Café and Lupin Restaurante serve vegetarian versions. So, you won’t miss the fun of Francesinha.

15. Explore Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Another place in Porto to find the traditional artwork on azulejos is the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso or Church of Saint Ildefonso. Located right next to the Batalha Square, a historic public square, this Baroque church was built in 1739. However, the beautiful tiles you see on the exterior today was added later in 1932.

It is hard to believe that there are around 11,000 tiles covering the facade of the bell towers . They showcases religious stories from the Gospels. Particularly the life of Saint Ildefonso, a 7th century Bishop of Toledo to whom the church is dedicated to. It was created by Portuguese painter Jorge Colaço, who also designed and painted the stunning murals at the São Bento Station.

Another highlight of the church is the baroque and rococo style retable on the main altar. It was created by the Italian artist and architect Nicolau Nasoni, whose work can also be seen in the Porto Cathedral, Igreja dos Clérigos among others.

The nearby Rue Santa Catarina is the main shopping street of the city. If you are around here, definitely visit the famous Majestic Cafe. It is just a few minutes walk from Igreja de Santo Ildefonso.

Where to find : Take a metro ride to the Sao Bento Station. The church is around 7 minutes walk from the Station. Also, this area is served by trams and buses.

Opening Hours : Monday 3 pm to 6:30pm. Tuesday to Saturday 9 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 6:30 pm. Sunday: 9 am to 1 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm.

16. Monument Church Of St Francis

Founded around 1245, Monument Church of St Francis is one of the most prominent Gothic landmarks in Porto. Don’t get fooled by the church’s simple structure from the outside. The intricately decorated and heavily gilded Baroque interior will leave you spellbound.

Legend has it that the church’s impressive wood carvings are decorated with three hundred kilos of gold dust. One of the most impressive altarpieces is the Tree of Jesse by Filipe da Silva and Antonio Gomes. It depicts the family tree of Jesus.

After admiring the interiors of the church, visit the catacomb where the Franciscan monks and the influential people of Porto are buried.

There is also an ossuary with thousands of bones. You can see some of them through the glass floor.

Where to find : Monument Church Of St Francis is about an 8-minute walk from the Sao Bento Train Station. Also, the scenic Porto Tram Linha 1 stops at Infante, right next to the church.

Entrance Fees : € 7.50 Adult.

Opening Hours : Daily. November – February 9am – 5:30pm. March – October 9am – 7pm. July – September 9am – 8pm.

17. Discover the Street Art of Porto

If you are interested in discovering urban street arts, Porto is the right place for you. The street art scene is relatively new here, but it’s growing fast. The stunning colourful works by local artists brighten up the otherwise dull vacant walls. It reminded us of Glasgow street murals of Scotland. A self-guided walking tour to visit these vibrant street artworks of Porto is one of the unique things to do in the city.

Some of the subjects of the paintings are abstract, while others are based upon local characters. Also, a few of them delivers a political and social message in it. So, while wandering around the city, look out for these colourful street artworks and graffitis.

One of our favourite street artwork is the Half Rabbit , created by Portuguese artist Bordalo II in the streets of Vila Nova da Gaia. This large mural shows a rabbit made of recycled materials and spare parts to create awareness about human wastefulness and sustainability. You can see more of this artist’s work in Lisbon.

While walking across the upper level of Dom Luis I Bridge, watch out for the AN.FI.TRI.AO mural. It shows an aged man extending his hand to welcome people in the city. Created by artist Frederico Draw, you can find this one on the side of a derelict building near the bridge.

The Don Quixote of La Mancha mural can be found in Rua de Miguel Bombarda. It is one of the earliest legal street art in Porto. Local artists Mesk, Fedor and Mots came together to create this quirky mural showcasing characters from the Spanish book.

Another one of our favourites is the Mira mural at a small square in Rua Nova da Alfândega in the Miragaia neighbourhood. If you are in this area, don’t miss the nearby Look at Porto mural on the wall of a movie theatre.

18. Majestic Cafe

Located in Santa Catarina Street, the main shopping street in Porto, Majestic Cafe is far more than just a coffee house – It is a popular tourist attraction of this city. The interior of this cafe is beautifully decorated in Art Nouveau style with wooden panels and plenty of Flemish mirrors. It will make you feel you have stepped back in the Belle Epoque era.

This historic coffee house first opened its door in 1922. Many dignitaries and influential people of Porto were regulars in this iconic cafe. From the 1960s, this cafe started losing its former glory, and in the mid-’90s it went through major renovation work to revive its original setting.

Majestic Cafe has a Harry Potter connection as well. If you are a potter fan, you would be delighted to know that author JK Rowling lived a few years in Porto in the early ‘90s, and she would come here very frequently. She was seen writing down ideas on the napkins. Some believe that she started writing her first Harry Potter book in this café. It would be an overstatement to say the food is too good but is worth a visit for the grand interior and the great ambience.

After stepping out of the cafe, head towards Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, which is just 2 minutes walk from here. You will get to see some beautiful works of azulejo tiles. Also, visit nearby Bolhao Market, which is more than 100 years old.

Opening Hours : Monday- Saturday 9 am – 11:30 pm. Sunday closed.

Where to find : Aliados on line D is the nearest metro station. The cafe is about 5 minutes walk from there.

19. Explore the Tranquil Gardens at Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

The Crystal Palace Gardens is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of Porto . If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax, this garden is a perfect spot. It is a tranquil urban oasis away from the crowd of the city.

Set on a hill overlooking the Douro River, the garden is not too far from the popular tourist attractions of the historic centre of Porto. It also provides some of the best panoramic views of the city skyline and the nearby Douro River. Also, an excellent spot to catch a gorgeous sunset.

This 8-hectare landscape garden was built in the 19th century, and the layout was created by the German landscape gardener, Émille David.

Take a leisurely stroll around the small themed gardens around the park, including the Garden of Feelings, the herb garden and a rose garden. They are well maintained and beautifully decorated with fountains and sculptures. If you are lucky, you might catch a few peacocks roaming around the grounds.

The original palace, the garden is named after, does not exist anymore. It was demolished and replaced in the 1950s with a domed pavilion. Today it serves as a venue for concerts and sporting events. There are also cafes and restaurants inside the garden.

Where to find : The Jardins do Palacio de Cristal is around 15 minutes walk from the Clerigos Tower. Also, you can easily reach here by bus and tram.

Opening Hours : Every day. April – September 8 am to 9 pm. October – March 8 am to 7 pm.

Map of the Attractions in Porto

Here is a map of all the best attractions to visit and the best things to do in Porto. Click on the link to save the Google map on your phone. You can also use it offline. We have also marked famous places to eat and the stunning viewpoints around the city.

How to Get to Porto

With high speed trains, budget airlines, frequent bus services and well maintained highways – reaching Porto couldn’t be any easier.

Arriving Porto by Flight

Porto Airport (OPO) is situated approx 6.8 miles northwest of the Porto city centre. It is one of the busiest airports in Portugal and serves as an important hub in the north of this country. The airport is easily accessible by public transport. You will find car rental services, foreign currency exchange, shops, restaurants and cafes here.

There are direct flights to Porto from all the major European cities alongside domestic flights from other cities in Portugal. It is a base for Ryanair, EasyJet and TAP Air Portugal. Also, British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Vueling, Transavia, Iberia and Brussels Airlines operate flights to Porto.

If you are travelling from a Non-European country, you have to transit through a major European Airport to reach here. Read below for more information about the flights from the UK.

Flights from the UK

There are many regular flights from various cities in Great Britain. You can catch direct flights from London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh and Bristol. Flights from London typically take about 2 hours 30 min to arrive in Porto. Flights are operated by British Airways, TAP Air Portugal, as well as budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet. So, Porto should definitely be on your travel bucket list for a great weekend city break.

How to Reach Porto City Centre from the Airport

You can reach Porto city centre very easily by metro, bus, taxi and car from the airport. Porto Metro service is the easiest and most convenient way to get to the city centre. The airport is on the metro line E. To reach the city centre, you will have to change the metro line at Trindade subway station. It takes 26 minutes to get to Trindade. Trains run every 20 to 30 minutes, and a single ride ticket costs only €2.

You can also catch bus services 601, 602 and 604 (operated by STCP ) to reach various locations around Porto from the airport. Journey time on the bus is much longer than on the metro. Also, Terravision operates a door to door shuttle bus service from the airport.

Private taxi service to the city centre costs around €20- €30 and will drop you in about 20 minutes.

Arriving Porto by Bus

You can also reach Porto by bus from other cities in Portugal. Rede Expressos operates a network of buses around the country. For the lowest price, buy your bus tickets online in advance. The bus from Lisbon takes around 3 hours 30 minutes to reach here and terminates in Campo 24 de Agosto. From there, you can ride the metro services to get to the city centre. Also, there are ALSA buses from Porto to Spain.

The bus doesn’t run from a single bus station. Different bus companies arrive and depart from various places around Porto. So, it might be a little confusing.

Arriving Porto by Trains

There are two main train stations in Porto. The Intercity train services stop at Campanha Railway Station , whereas the suburban local trains run through Sao Bento Railway Station .

If you are coming from Lisbon, Faro, Coimbra or Braga, you can catch the high-speed train services to Porto, known as Alfa Pendular. There are also slower intercity trains between the major cities of Portugal. An intercity train connecting Lisbon to Porto takes over 3 hours. With the high-speed Alfa Pendular and Intercity services, you will find plenty of trains per day.

If you are planning to travel around Portugal by train, we would suggest buying the tickets online in advance. Tickets sell out very fast, especially in peak tourist seasons.

Arriving Porto by Car

If you prefer to drive to Porto, Portugal has good highway networks across the country. The A1 motorways connect Porto to Lisbon. Here’s an approx journey time and distance to Porto from other cities in Portugal:

From Lisbon- 3 hours 10 min/ 314 km
From Coimbra- 1 hours 15 min/ 122 km
From Braga- 40 min/ 57 km

How to Get Around Porto

Porto is a city best explored on foot. Most of the visitor attractions lie quite close to each other. Exploring the winding cobbled streets of this historic city is part of its charm. So, we will suggest wearing comfortable shoes as some parts of the city are a bit steep and hilly, especially the area from the city centre to Ribeira. If you are staying near the city centre, you don’t even have to use any transport.

That being said, Porto has an extensive network of the public transport system. You can get around the city by metro, bus and tram. They are cost-effective and efficient.

There are six colour-coded metro lines – A, B, C, D, E and F. It is the quickest way to get around the city. A single metro ticket costs € 1.20. Also, you can buy an Andante card for €0.60, so you can recharge with as many journeys as you need. Don’t forget to validate your card every time you board the metro or change lines.

A bus is a great option to reach the places not covered by the metro. Also, there are three tram routes to help you get around the city. You can ride the funicular from the Ribeira to the Batalha square to avoid the steep walk. Also, there are many taxi services available throughout the city. So, getting around in Porto is easier than you might think.

Porto Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Porto Attractions, Walking Tours Map

Home / Porto Tours / Attractions Map

Porto Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Porto or otherwise known as Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal and is internationally admired for its wine. Aside from the immense architectural attractions, museums, churches and buildings the city offers, you are also welcome to visit the very famous Ribeira District and get to know more about their famous wine.

Depending on what type of traveler you are, Porto offers a number of public transportation so getting around the city is not a problem. Whether you are looking for a spot to explore, dine, or drink wine, just relax and keep a copy of the Porto Metro Map and the Porto Transport Map. Both maps work hand in hand in providing the best experience as you go around the city.

If you are the type of traveler who likes visiting the top rated attractions and famous things to do first, just grab a copy of the Porto Tourist Sightseeing Map. The map will guide you and show your way to the top tourist attractions and famous places in the city such as the ClérigosTower, the Don Luis Bridge, the Igreja de SãoFrancisco and Igreja do Carmo, the Vila Nova de Gaia, the World of Discoveries, the Music House and the Contemporary Art Museum.

Getting around the city by foot is also possible. All you need to do is get a copy of our PortoWalking Tour Maps. Using the map is a great help because you can explore the city at your own pace and with your own interests in mind. Surely, there is a walking tour that would suit your need.

If walking around is not your thing and you want a more effortless way of cruising into the different sights and places in the city, we recommend going for the Hop on Hop Off bus tour instead. For the complete details on the bus schedules and stops, just get a copy of the free printable copyof the Porto Hop on Hop off Bus map.

Interactive Porto Attractions Map
Top Rated Porto Attractions

Porto City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Map

Porto yellowbus hop-on hop-off bus tour map, porto metro map, porto transport map, porto tourist map, porto walking tour map.

Top Porto Attractions Skip-the-line Tickets & Tours

4 days in Douro Valley, hotel, wine tastings, cruise, buggy e fado night.

Porto Lello Bookstore Entry Voucher and The Collection Book

Poças Guided Visit and Wine Tasting of 2 DOC Douro & 1 Port Wines

Guided Visit & Gastronomic Experience: Carpaccio, Salmon & Cheese

Poças Guided Visit and Port Wine Tasting with Pastel de Nata

Ideal Clube de Fado

Porto Legends Admission Ticket with 3 Self-Guided Tours in Porto

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Porto Walking Tour: DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal

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Porto, Portugal is a stunningly beautiful city…and the absolute best way to experience it is on foot! We’ve created an easy-to-follow, Self-Guided Porto Walking Tour that includes all the top Porto sights. In addition to our step-by-step directions, we include a helpful Porto map at the end of this article.

Free Walking Tour Porto: A Self-Guided Porto Walk

Our Self-Guided Porto Free Walking Tour is perfect for visitors who prefer to discover at their own pace. For each Porto attraction, we include information about the sight, our insider tips and a location link.

About Our Free Tour of Porto, Portugal

We cover some ground in our Porto Walking Tour! There are 26 sights highlighted in our City Sightseeing Porto Tour. Plus, an additional 20+ attractions that are noted along the route. Visitors can enter these top Porto sights (some require a ticket) – or simply enjoy the walk and the atmosphere.

Our walking tour of Porto is a little over 5 miles in length. How long your Porto City Tour will take depends on your pace and how many sights you decide to enter. The Porto walking route itself – without visiting any churches or climbing the Porto bell tour – could take as little as 3 hours. However, travelers who want to step inside the markets and stop to see the cathedral interior could easily spend an entire day on our Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal.

Visitors who would prefer a leisurely pace can divide our route into 2 or 3 different Walking Tours in Porto. Below, we note the best places to break up the route into multiple days of Porto sightseeing.

Guided Porto Tours

While we think our Porto Self-Guided Walking Tour is the best way to explore the city. There are also numerous Porto Tours to consider. These include Porto Wine Tours, the Hop On Hop Off Porto Bus and Porto Boat Tours. We highlight top rated tours in Porto, Portugal that are led by local guides at the end of the article.

Walking Tour of Porto: What You Will Need

Best Sights, Porto Walking Tour: A DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal

Before you set off on your walking tour in Porto, make sure you have some of these travel essentials!

Walking Shoes

Not only is Porto a hilly city, but many of the streets are cobblestone and some sidewalks have uneven pavement. For our DIY Free Porto Walking Tour, make sure you wear comfortable travel shoes . I wear these lightweight shoes by Columbia – and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes for urban walks.

Travel Camera

Don’t forget your camera for your Porto sightseeing tour. The city is filled with incredible architecture and quaint lanes – and you will want to capture it all! Rather than relying on your phone, we recommend upgrading to an actual camera for high quality photos. We carry a Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens that takes excellent photos and is a fantastic DSLR budget camera option for travel.

Porto Weather Gear & Day Pack

Being so close to the sea, the weather in Porto can change quickly. While walking around Porto, we recommend bringing a travel umbrella or packable raincoat . In the summertime, a travel hat can provide protection from the sun – and it’s always a good idea to apply some sunscreen ! As you explore Porto, you will also want to carry a great day bag to organize all your essential travel items .

WiFi in Porto

Our DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal is highlighted with information, tips and maps. In order to access our advice while touring Porto, it is necessary to have a WiFi connection .

While cell phone plans can be adjusted for data usage in other countries, it can be extremely expensive. Instead, we use a GlocalMe Mobile WiFi Hotspot – which is not only ideal for free walking tours, but for frequent travels abroad.

Perfect for families or friends traveling together, the hotspot can connect up to 10 devices and supports both SIM cards or eSIM data packages. We would have literally been lost in Porto without it!

An Actual Map of Porto

Call us old-fashioned, but even with a Wi-Fi connection, we think it is a good idea to carry a Porto map – like this one – when touring the city. In fact, we think it is best to purchase a map in advance of your trip so that you can study the layout. You might even prefer to highlight our Porto Walking Tour route so that you can easily follow along.

Portugal Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may protect against flight cancellations or lost luggage , as well as when travelers get ill or injured abroad. Find out more about rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Helpful Information about Porto, Portugal

We share heaps of pertinent information throughout our outlined Self Guided Porto Walk. That said, we offer even more detailed advice in these Porto Travel Articles.

A Perfect Porto Itinerary
What to Eat in Porto
Best Porto Craft Beer Bars
Things To Do in Braga on a Day Trip
Visiting Aveiro, Portugal

Porto Walking Tour Itinerary

Visitors can choose to complete our self-guided Porto walk without making any stops or they can opt to enter attractions along the way. That said, it is important to check opening hours before you set out to ensure that you can visit the sights of interest during your walk. Alright, lace up your shoes, because it’s time to start your DIY Free Porto Walking Tour!

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Porto Travel Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!

#1 Liberdade Square and Statue of Dom Pedro IV

Liberdade Square and Statue of Dom Pedro IV, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Start your city tour of Porto in Praca da Liberdade – or Liberty Square. Designed in the 18th century, the square long served as the central hub of political, economical and social life in Porto. Ringed by opulent architecture that dates to the early 1900s, the south end of the square is marked by a large equestrian statue dedicated to King Peter IV. Note: The area’s currently a construction site for a new Porto Metro station.

Called ‘The Liberator’ and ‘The Soldier King’, King Peter IV is credited for freeing Brazil from colonization and fighting for a constitutional monarchy in Portugal. He so loved the people of Porto that he left them the gift of his heart, which today is housed in the Lapa Church.

Stroll north from the King Pedro IV Statue along Avenida do Aliados – and perhaps pop into the Imperial McDonald’s, which is often touted as the most beautiful McDonald’s restaurant in the world.

Directions : Walk to the City Hall building on the north end of the square.

#2 Porto Sign and Camara Municipal

MAP . Featuring a 230-foot-tall tower and carillon clock, the Camara Municipal – or City Hall Porto – is a must-see landmark on Porto city tours. Construction of the building began in 1920, but it wasn’t completed and finally occupied until 1957. Visitors can go inside to see the lavishly decorated lobby and get an elevated view of Praca da Liberdade.

Sitting in front of the City Hall building is a large, blue Porto sign. Visitors often climb on the sign to get their photo taken – but we prefer the view from in front of the fountain across the street, where you can see both the sign and City Hall.

Directions : Walk around City Hall to the north side. There you will find a pleasant square and the Trindade Church.

#3 Igreja da Santissima Trindade

Igreja da Santissima Trindade, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Continue your Porto City Walking Tour at the church behind City Hall. Built in the 19th century, the Igreja da Santissima Trindade – or Holy Trinity Church – features a neoclassical façade and rising bell tower. The interior of the church is decorated with marble and gilded woodwork.

Directions : Walk east on Rua de Fernandes Tomas to the Bolhao Market. Along the route, you will pass by A Favorita do Bolhao (#783 Rua de Fernandes Tomas), a traditional grocery store – stocked with tinned sardines and typical Porto eats – which has been open for more than 80 years. Step inside and take a look!

#4 Mercado do Bolhao

Vendor stalls at the new Mercado do Bolhao, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Established in 1914 and recently reopened after a complete renovation, the Bolhao Market is a bustling building where all the best tours in Porto make a stop. Visitors can set off on a shopping spree down the lanes of stalls on the ground floor. Then get a bite to eat from vendors who sell local prepared delicacies and regional wine by the glass. While many choose to gather on the stairs on the north end, the Porto Bolhao Market also features several sit-down restaurants on the top floor.

Directions : E xit on the north side from the upper floor and walk east to the Capela de Santa Catarina.

#5 Capela das Almas (or Capela de Santa Catarina)

Capela das Almas Church, Porto, Portugal

MAP . One of the most beautiful churches in Portugal, Capela das Almas is the next stop on our Best Porto Walking Tour. Also known as Capela de Santa Catarina – or Chapel of Souls and Chapel of Saint Catherine – the building dates to the early 18th century.

In 1929, the church was completely covered in the characteristic blue and white painted tiles, called azulejos. Although small, visitors should step inside to see the interior as well. It’s one of the best free things to do in Porto!

Directions : W alk south on Rua de Santa Catarina, the famous pedestrian-only Porto shopping street.

#6 Rua de Santa Catarina (Shopping Street Porto)

MAP . A nearly 5000-foot-long shopping street, Rua de Santa Catarina is lined with name-brand stores, specialty shops, restaurants and cafes. The area is one of the top places to go in Porto – not only for shopping, but simply for strolling.

As you meander south along the promenade, stop into Fabrica da Nata for a traditional Portuguese egg custard tart fresh from the oven. At the next intersection (R. Formosa), detour a few steps to the west and step back in time at the traditional A Perola do Bolhao shop where they sell sweet treats, cured meats, wine and deli items.

Directions : Continue walking south on Rua de Santa Catarina to Majestic Cafe (which will be on your left).

#7 Majestic Café

Classic Coffee, Majestic Cafe, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Porto’s glamorous Majestic Café was first opened in 1921 under the name Café Elite. The stylish establishment attracted Porto’s most renowned citizens – from politicians to poets. In the 1980s, the building was declared a Cultural Heritage Site, even though it was in a state of disrepair after being left abandoned.

Since its full renovation, the Majestic Café has been restored to its former glory. Tuxedoed waiters greet patrons at the door and the coffee is ridiculously expensive for Porto, but the french toast gets rave reviews and the lavish interior is truly a sight to behold. All in all, it’s a great place to take a quick break during your Porto Walking Tour Self-Guided Route.

Directions: Continue walking south to Rua de Passos Manuel, and turn left. Walk east past the art deco Coliseu Porto Ageas theater to Praca dos Poveiros square. Pass through the square to the quaint park on the southeast corner.

#8 Jardim Marques de Oliveira Porto

Card Games, Jardim Marques de Oliveira, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Porto’s oldest park, Jardim Marques de Oliveira, opened in 1834. The lovely space features an old gazebo, fountains, statues, benches and bright flowers. An ideal place to rest weary feet, the park is also the meeting place for older gentlemen who come to play cards.

Several of our favorite restaurants are located in the area around the park – like Casa Guedes, Venham Mais 5 and Cafe Santiago. If you’ve managed to hold out for lunch, we recommend eating at one of these iconic spots. Find all of our foodie tips in our guide to Porto Food: What and Where To Eat in Porto .

Directions : From Praca dos Poveiros, walk west on Rua de Santo Ildefonso to Igreja de Santo Ildefonso church.

#9 Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and Praca da Batalha

Amazing Church, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The Baroque Igreja de Santo Ildefonso – or Church of Saint Ildefonso – was built in the early 1700s. It took 30 years to complete – and was officially opened in 1739. In 1932, the church’s facade was covered in 11,000 of the traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles. The tiles were painted by Portuguese artist, Jorge Colaco, who is responsible for many of the azulejo murals that you will notice while on Porto walks.

If the gates are open, the interior is also quite impressive and free to visit. There is a small museum on-site as well that requires a ticket to enter.

Praca da Batalha – or Batalha Square – expands around the corner. The open space is bordered by the Batalha Palace (which dates to the 18th century), the Royal Theatre of Sao Joao Opera House (built in 1908 on the former site of a theater dating to 1794) and the Cinema Batalha (an art deco theater built in 1947). A statue of King Pedro V, which was dedicated in 1866, stands in the center of the square.

Directions: From the church, walk west and downhill on Rua de 31 de Janeiro, enjoying the view of Clerigos Tower. At the bottom of the hill, turn left onto Praca de Almeida Garrett and enter the Sao Bento Train Station.

#10 Sao Bento Train Station Porto

Tile Art Inside Sao Bento Train Station, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The always-buzzing Sao Bento Railway Station was constructed in the early 1900s – and the true gem of the stately 3-story granite building is the grand entrance hall. The interior of São Bento is decorated with 20,000 azulejo tiles – a project that took 11 years to complete (by artist Jorge Colaco, of course).

The colorful upper tiles feature the different modes of transport that have been used in Portugal. The blue and white tile murals depict important scenes in Portuguese history. The station is featured in all of the best Porto Free Walking Tours and sightseeing guides – and for good reason!

Directions: Exit the station and turn right. Walk north across the street to the Church of St. Anthony.

#11 Igreja de Santo Antonio dos Congregados

Igreja de Santo Antonio dos Congregados at night, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The Igreja de Santo Antonio do Congregadas – or the Church of St. Anthony – has a history that stretches to the late 17th century. Dedicated to St. Anthony (the patron saint of Lisbon), the exterior tiles portray the story of the saint’s life. The church is free to visit – and many of Porto’s faithful residents are often found inside praying.

Directions: W alk west (passing where this tour began) and start the climb toward the Clerigos Bell Tower. On the south side of the street is O Mundo Fantastico das Sardinhas Poruguesas – a popular Porto tinned sardine store. Further up is Confeitaria dos Clerigos, which is a local bakery offering traditional Portuguese snacks. Continue walking uphill and find the entrance to on the north side.

#12 Igreja dos Clerigos and Porto Bell Tower

Igreja dos Clerigos and Bell Tower and Tram passing, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The Igreja dos Clerigos – or Church of the Clergymen – was built in the mid-1700s in the Baroque style (one of the first of its kind in Portugal). The iconic bell tower stands nearly 200-feet-tall – and has long been a symbol of Porto.

Climbing the 240 steps to the top requires a ticket . It includes entrance to the museum and is one of the top things to do in Porto. The church interior own it’s own can be visited for free. It is well worth spending some time here when walking Porto to enjoy these sights.

Directions: W alk north across the Praca de Lisboa. Go through the shops or on the grassy park on top of them to the Livraria Lello Bookstore.

#13 Livraria Lello (Famous Porto Bookstore)

Livraria Lello Bookstore, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The Livraria Lello – or Lello Bookstore – ranks as one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal. When it first opened in 1906, the incredibly ornate bookshop was an instant hit with intellectuals and quickly became a part of the cultural life in Porto.

Lello Bookstore is said to be the inspiration for some of the scenes in JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series. There are rumors that she even wrote the book in the shop. Due to it’s insane popularity, visiting is no longer one of the free things to do in Porto, Portugal. Tickets are now required to enter and should be booked in advance.

Directions : W alk northwest on Rua das Carmelitas toward the 19th century Fonte dos Leoes (Lions Fountain) that fronts the stoic University of Porto building. Continue walking northwest across the square and tram tracks to the famous tiled ‘double’ churches.

#14 Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas

MAP . The Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas – the Carmo Church and Carmelitas Church – are both a stunning and peculiar sight in Porto. The two extravagant churches stand side-by-side, separated only by a narrow house.

Carmelitas Church, which is on the left, was built in the 17th century as part of a convent; it features a bell tower and an intricately decorated interior. The Carmelitas Church is free to visit.

The Carmo Church, on the right, was built in the 18th century for Carmelite monks. Designed in the Baroque style, the exterior has dynamic embellishments on the front and extensive azulejos tiles on the east-facing wall. The interior of the Carmo Church is lavishly decorated with gilded woodwork. To visit the Carmo Church, guests need to purchase a ticket – which also allows entry into the ‘Hidden House,’ the crypt, rooftop and other rooms within the complex.

Theories abound as to why the two churches were built next to each other but separated by a slender home; some say it was to keep the monks and nuns from becoming too friendly, while other tales say a law prohibited two churches from being built with a common wall. In any event, the cramped house was actually used as a residence until the 1980s!

Directions: Walk north along the east side of Carmo Church to the small square, Praca de Carlos Alberto.

#15 Praca de Carlos Alberto

Beautiful tile sidewalk at Praca de Carlos Alberto, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Named after an exiled king who lived in a palace on the square in the 1800s, Praca de Carlos Alberto – or Carlos Alberto Square – is small, but beautiful. The black and white tiled pavement (which is so characteristic of Portugal) draws the eye to the solemn World War I monument (Monumento aos Mortos da Grande Guerra) that stands on the north end.

On Saturdays, the Porto Belo Street Market takes place here. The quaint square is one of our favorite places to pass through on a walk around Porto.

Directions: Retrace your steps past the Carmo Church and continue walking south on Praca de Parade Leitao (on the west side of the University of Porto building). Enter the shaded Jardim da Cordoaria and cross the street to Largo Amor de Perdição in front of the massive Centro Portugues de Fotografia Museum. If time allows, detour to the immaculate Igreja Sao Jose das Taipas Church. Next, walk Rua de Sao Bento da Vitoria south to Miradouro da Vitoria.

#16 Miradouro da Vitoria Porto

View from Miradouro da Vitoria, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Offering one of the best views of Porto, Miradouro da Vitoria is a small gated viewpoint that sits in front of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Vitória church. The panoramic vista encompasses the Se Cathedral, Ponte Luis I Bridge, the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia and the tiled rooftops of the Ribeira district. This a top spot for amazing Porto photos.

Directions: Exit through the gate and turn right. Then left onto Rua da Vitoria and right at Rua do Ferraz and follow it down to Rua das Flores.

#17 Rua das Flores Pedestrian Street

View of Rua das Flores, walking street Porto, Portugal

MAP . Another one of the pretty Porto walking streets, Rua das Flores is a must to stroll down at least once on your visit. Coffee or chocolates, wine or cocktails, window shopping or people watching, Rua das Flores has it all, and you’ll never walk alone!

Directions: At the bottom (south end) of Rua das Flores is Largo São Domingos square. Pause to enjoy the architecture and ponder the odd pillars. Then continue down R. de Sousa Viterbo and up the red iron staircase to Mercado Ferreira.

#18 Mercado Ferreira Borges

The Red Market Hall, Mercado Ferreira Borges, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Dating to 1885, the Ferreira Borges Market – which was named for a famous local politician – is a historic Porto landmark…yet, oddly it was never used as a marketplace. Instead, it served various random purposes – such as a military warehouse and local soup kitchen.

The city nearly tore it down in the 1970s to build a parking lot, but it was saved for its unique iron design. In 2010, the space was renovated to host a night club, live music venue and restaurant. During the day there’s a small cafe and bar where you can grab a beverage and enjoy it al fresco with a beautiful Porto view! (Plus, there are free public toilets inside.)

Directions: Exit the market building and walk south into the Jardim do Infante D. Henrique park. At the center is a statue dedicated to Prince Henry the Navigator. On the west side of the park is Palacio da Bolsa.

#19 Palacio da Bolsa

The Stoke Exchange Building, Palacio da Bolsa, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa – or Stock Exchange Palace – took nearly 70 years to complete, from 1842 until 1910. Still the headquarters of the Commercial Association of Porto, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a museum (tickets required), conference center and restaurant.

Directions: Walk to the south side of the Palacio da Bolsa and take the stairs up to the Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco.

#20 Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco

Monument Church of Saint Francis, Porto, Portugal

MAP . A stunning Gothic structure, the Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco – or the Monument Church of Saint Francis – was built between 1383 and 1425. While the exterior has remained relatively the same through the years, the interior was renovated in the 18th century with a grandiose Baroque flair.

It is estimated that 650 pounds of gold decorate the church’s interior. In 1832 during the Siege of Porto, a fire destroyed the attached cloisters (which is now where the Palacio da Bolsa stands), but thankfully the church was left undamaged. A ticket is required to enter.

Directions: Retrace your steps to the southeast corner in front of the church. Cross the street to the south and make a short stop at the blue tiled Church of St. Nicholas. Then continue west to Rua da Alfandega, turning right to walk south toward the river. Take your first left onto the narrow Rua da Fonte Taurina and walk along the narrow curving street to Praca da Ribeira.

#21 Ribeira District and Cais da Ribeira Porto

View of Ribeira District and Cais da Ribeira Porto

MAP . One of the oldest neighborhoods in Porto and a UNESCO site, the riverside Ribeira District is a tangle of medieval streets and ancient structures. Once a bustling port, the old warehouses are now prime locations for many of the most popular Porto restaurants and bars. The upper, terraced residences still serve their original purpose. While many have been converted to tourist accommodations, some are still occupied by locals, whom you may see hanging laundry or watering plants.

View looking at Ribeira Square, Porto, Portugal

At the heart of the district is the Praca da Ribeira. Long serving as a center of commerce and community, the Ribeira Square opens to the Douro River. The city walls were torn down in the 1800s. At the north end is a fountain – and above it is a Portuguese coat of arms that dates to the late 1700s and a statue of St. John the Baptist.

Best Tour, Porto Walking Tour: A DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal

The Cais da Riveira – or the Waterfront – is a wide, pedestrian zone lined with cafes and restaurants. Across the Douro River you’ll have a clear view of Vila Nova de Gaia and it’s numerous Porto Wine Cellars. We will visit these later in our Porto Walking Tour.

Many of the popular Rabelo boat tours – like the 6 Bridge Tour – depart from the docks here along the riverside. If time permits, go ahead and give your feet a rest and hop on a Douro River Tour!

Directions: Continue along the Waterfront to the east and pass under the bridge. Either take the Funicular dos Guindais up to Batalha station (ticket required) or walk up the stairs (just past the funicular station) to the south end of Batalha Square. Walk west along the south side of Rua de Saraiva de Carvalho to the small park. Find the nearly hidden Igreja de Santa Clara Church.

#22 Igreja de Santa Clara Porto

Igreja de Santa Clara, Gold Church, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Built in the early 1400s, the Igreja de Santa Clara – or St. Clara Church – has a modest exterior, but a dazzling interior. Originally constructed as part of a convent, the church was modified throughout the years and now features an exquisite glittering gold interior.

An inexpensive ticket is required to enter – which includes visiting the main church, plus the upper room.

Directions: Continue walking west to the Se do Porto Cathedral.

#23 Se do Porto Cathedral

Exterior view of the Porto Se Cathedral, Portugal

MAP . The Se do Porto – or the Porto Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady – marks the historical center of Porto. It took more than 600 years – from the 1100s to the 1700s – to complete, in which time many adjustments and alterations were made to the original plans resulting in a mix of architectural styles. In the mid-1700s, famous Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, added a Baroque flair to the cathedral.

The dominating hilltop structure features two towers, an ornate interior and a cloister. There is a fee to enter the church, but the ticket allows visitors to climb to the top of the tower for great views of Porto.

Blue skies over the Se do Porto Cathedral, Porto, Portugal

Fronting the church is a large square which also offers nice views over the river and Vila Nova de Gaia. At the center of the square is a decorated pillar, which once served as a place for hangings.

Directions: Exit to the north of the Cathedral, taking a closer look at the azulejos tiles that decorate the walls. Turn right (south) onto the pedestrian-only street and walk onto the upper level of the bridge.

#24 Ponte Luis I Bridge Porto

Blue SKy above Ponte Luis I Bridge, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Designed in the late 1800s by Théophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, the double-decker iron Ponte Luis I Bridge is the most beautiful bridge in the city. Connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, the bridge was an engineering feat of its time. Originally, both levels were utilized for vehicles, but since the early 2000s, the top deck only accommodates trams and pedestrians, while the lower crossing is used by cars and people – although the sidewalks are quite narrow and crowded.

Pedestrians can get a peek at another famous Porto bridge, Dona Maria Pia, which is also made of iron, that straddles the Douro just upstream. The twin bridges are named after Portugal King Luis I and his wife, Maria Pia of Savoy.

Directions: Cross the bridge from Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia – taking in the views of the river from both sides – just watch for trams! Once across, continue walking south on the east side of Avenida da Republica. At the first intersection, make a sharp left U-turn onto the ramp that leads up to the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar.

#25 Miradouro da Serra do Pilar

View from Miradouro da Serra do Pilar, Porto, Portugal

MAP . The round, white Serra do Pilar church – part of a former 16th century monastery – can clearly be seen from many places around Porto. While most of the monastery is now used by the military, part of it is open as a museum (ticket required). However, it’s the Porto city views from the elevated square that make it worth trekking up the hill!

Directions: Take the ramp back down and cross through Jardim do Morro park (which also has nice views and plenty of places to sit and relax). On the far side, find the staircase that leads down to Calcada da Serra Street. Turn right and start the downhill trek (including the hairpin left just after passing under the bridge) to the Vila Nova de Gaia Riverside. Alternatively, buy a ticket and take a ride on the Teleferico Gaia Cable Car!

#26 Vila Nova de Gaia

Street Art, Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal

MAP . Vila Nova de Gaia – or just Gaia – is a separate municipality from Porto, yet it is a must-see for Porto visitors. Gaia is famous for being home to numerous Port Wine Cellars and the views of Porto from the waterfront are simply spectacular.

For those who may not know, Port is the famous Portuguese fortified wine made exclusively in the Douro Valley. The vineyards are located upstream from Gaia and we include a day tour to the region in our Complete Itinerary for Porto .

Gaia view from Porto over the Douro River, Portugal

The wine was traditionally transferred by rabelos boats to be processed and stored in Gaia warehouses along the river and in the sprawling neighborhood to the south. When the Port wine was ready, it was loaded onto bigger boats and shipped all around the world.

A wide pedestrian walkway in Gaia parallels the river – and port wine tasting rooms, restaurants and cafes line the path. Visitors can join cellar tours ( book in advance ), sip port on an elevated terrace or get an inexpensive tasting along with petiscos – small plates for sharing – at the countless number of bars and cafes.

Typical Porto Wine Tasting, Gaia, Porto, Portugal

At the west end of the waterfront is the Natas D’ouro bakery (one of our favorite Pastel de Nata bakeries!) and the Mercado Beira Rio, which features an array of cuisine from top area restaurants.

You can continue touring the area on a Gaia cellar walk (use these directions ) and seek out some of the interesting street art down the narrow lanes. Another way to end your day of Porto sightseeing is with a combined evening port wine tasting and Fado show at the Calem cellars (but you need to book your seat in advance ).

That ends our Self-Guided Free Porto Walking Tour! Below is our Porto Map of Sights, as well as tips for other interesting tours in Porto.

Shorter Porto Walking Tours

View from Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal

Our Porto walk can easily fill an entire day of exploration. Those who would rather break it up into multiple Porto, Portugal walking tours, however, can easily do so.

2 Porto, Portugal Self-Guided Tours

To split our Self-Guided Porto Free Walk into two tours, we recommend seeing sights 1-21 on Day 1, then exploring sights 22-26 on Day 2.

3 Self-Guided Walking Tours: Porto, Portugal

For shorter routes, our Walking Tour of Porto can be divided into three separate outings. First see sights 1-10 from our DIY Free Tour Porto, then explore stops 11-21 for historic Porto attractions. Finally, discover Gaia with sights 22-26.

Porto, Portugal Map

Use this Google Map to find an interactive version of all the stops on our Free Porto Walking Tour below. You can also pick up a free Porto tourist map at the Tourist Information Office.

Porto Walking Tour Map by JetSettingFools.com

Porto Walking Tour Map and Directions

In our Porto Walking Tour Self Guided route, we include written directions, as well as a map link to each sight – and the above Porto Map of Attractions.

Travelers who wish to divide up the route or want step-by-step directions can use these Google Map links for our Porto Walking Tour to navigate from one sight to the next.

Tour 1 – Sights 1-10 Map
Tour 2 – Sights 11-21 Map
Tour 3 – Sights 22-26 Map

More Tours in Porto, Portugal

Take a river cruise on the Douro River, Porto, Portugal

While we think our walk outlines the best Porto free tour to begin your visit, there are many other tours that provide an excellent experiences. Below we share some of the top rated offers with the option to book your spot!

Douro River Cruise Tours Porto

There are numerous Porto river trips – but a 6 Bridges Cruise is the most popular way to see the sights by boat. On this affordable 50-minute Porto boat cruise, visitors board a traditional Rabello boat for a tour on the Douro River. Book it now!

Porto Wine Tour

Wine is part of the culture in Porto – and it’s not just about port! Join an afternoon tour for an introduction to Porto wine. On these guided tours participants will get to taste 3 wines and learn about the history of wine making in the region. Get the details!

Pro Tip : Visitors can also take a Porto Cellar Tour that details the process of making port – with a p tasting at the end! Learn more!

Porto Food Tour

We love the food in Portugal! Fellow travelers can use our Porto Food Guide to create their own foodie tour. For those who would rather a guide lead the way can join this highly-rated group Food Tour in Porto. Reserve your spot!

Guided Walking Tour Porto

We won’t take it personally if you would rather a guide show you the sights – and there are many top-rated Guided Walking Tours in Porto to choose from. On this 3-Hour Guided Porto Sightseeing Tour, you learn about the history of the city from a local and get insider tips, too. Find out more!

Porto Private Tour

Travelers who prefer a private tour of Porto can also hire a local guide. On this popular half day Porto tour, guests get a personalized introduction and local knowledge. Book it!

Guided Free Tour Porto

Visitors looking for a Guided Oporto Free Tour should check out the Porto Sandemans Tour. Just keep in mind that the Free Walking Tour Porto Guides expect – and hopefully deserve – to be tipped. Guests who do not want to pay a guide should stick with our outlined Self-Guided Walking Tour Porto!

Porto Bus Tour: Hop On Hop Off

To avoid walking the hills and battling the crowds, take the Hop On Hop Off Bus in Porto instead! The Porto Sightseeing Bus has two routes that make stops at major attractions and includes commentary in 8 different languages. Book it now!

Pro Tip: Experience top Porto attractions with a combo ticket that includes the Hop On Hop Off Bus, a River Boat Ride and a Port Cellar Tour. Get the Details!

Porto Tram Tour

An alternate way to see the city in a DIY style is on a Porto Tram City Tour. Although not really an official Porto tour, visitors ride the historic trams to many of the sights. Find more info about using the trams to tour Porto on the official transportation website .

Porto Bike Tour

While we think we have given you the best walking tour Porto, bike tours in Porto are a fabulous way to sightsee! Rather than walking in Porto, follow a guide on two wheels on a 3 hour guided tour across town. Get the details!

More Portugal Travel Tips

View of the classic architecture and Buildings of Porto, Portugal

We’ve got you started with the best free walking tour in Porto. However, there is a lot more involved in planning a trip to Portugal. We share our top tips for what to do and see – plus advice on where to stay and how to get there – in our Detailed Itinerary for Porto .

For those visiting Porto from abroad should also read our Advice for Planning a European Vacation .

More Travel Tips for Portugal can be found in our other free travel guides.

10 Day Portugal Itinerary
Plan an Amazing Lisbon Itinerary
Where to find the Best Lisbon Viewpoints and beautiful Lisbon Churches
A Guide to Free Things To Do in Lisbon
How To Plan a DIY Sintra Day Trip
What To See in Belem and How To Visit Cristo Rei from Lisbon
Madeira Island Itinerary
Things To Do in Funchal, Portugal
What To Eat on Madeira Island

Stay Organized with a Travel Planner

As you research and make reservations for your Porto, Portugal trip, you need to stay on top of the details. With our Printable Travel Planner – you can keep organized so that nothing falls through the cracks!

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

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

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The best independent guide to Porto

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

Porto, Portugal; a tourism and holiday guide for 2024

Porto is a fascinating and vibrant city that has so much to offer for as holiday or city break destination.

The city boasts an extensive history, unique tourist attractions, delicious cuisines and buzzing nightlife. Porto has a delightful historic centre and is famed for its Port wine, but it is also a young and energetic city, with social nightlife, liberal attitudes and a flourishing artisan scene.

There is a lot to love about Porto, and the diversity of the city will appeal to a wide range of visitors. This article will provide an introduction to Porto, and help you get the most from your trip to this wonderful city.

What are the highlights of Porto?

The Ribeira district - A characterful district of colourful houses, narrow cobbled streets, and an abundance of Portuguese charm.

Port – The deliciously strong fortified wine, which has to be matured within Porto to be classified as Port. Each of the major Port-wine producers have huge cellars on the southern banks of the Douro River, that provide tours and tasting sessions.

The Douro River - The mighty river that flows through the centre of the city and is crossed by six magnificent bridges. The river is best experienced by the boat tours that depart from the Ribeira district.

The Foz district – The peaceful district situated at the mouth of the Douro River, with its beaches, riverside walks and laidback ambience. Related article: The 10 best sights and activities in Porto

How long to stay in Porto?

At a minimum, it takes two full days of sightseeing to really discover Porto.

The first day can be spent exploring the historic centre of Porto, which includes the Se, Baixa and Ribeira districts. Sights would include the Gothic Se cathedral, the beautiful, tiled exterior of the Igreja do Carmo and the wonderous Livraria Lello bookshop. The day could also include a boat cruise or a ride on one of the classic trams.

In the evening you could visit the lively restaurants and bars of the Ribeira district. For a more party-focused night, head to the bars and clubs close to the university and the Rua Galeria de Paris (affectionally known as Bar Street)

On the second day you could visit Vila Nova de Gaia, the location of the Port cellars. Here you could join a Port tasting tour, ride the cable car and embrace the social atmosphere of the area. In the afternoon you could visit the pretty Foz district, with its many small beaches, trendy bars and relaxed ambience. Related articles: Two days in Porto - A walking tour of central Porto

The magnificent Igreja do Carmo church, with its beautiful Azulejo tile murals

The interactive map below shows a suggested itinerary for two days in Porto. The green line shows the route for the first day and the yellow line marks the second day. ( Note: Zoom out to see all of the points)

Day one: 1) São Bento train station 2) Torre dos Clérigos 3) Igreja do Carmo 4) Avenida dos Aliados plaza 5) Sé cathedra l 6) Ribeira district 7) Igreja de São Francisco 8) Palácio da Bolsa 9) Rua das Flores (shopping street) Day two: 10) Ponte Luís I bridge 11) Cálem (Port cellar) 12) Sandeman (Port cellar) 13) Ferreira (Port cellar) 14) Foz district

What about a longer stay in Porto?

Porto is an ideal base from which to explore the north of Portugal. Surrounding Porto is a region of historic towns, stunning scenery and glorious beaches, all of which could easily extend a holiday to a week or more.

A suggested itinerary for a week based in Porto could be: • Day 1 – Porto (historic centre) • Day 2 – Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia and the Foz district ) • Day 3 – Day trip to Guimarães • Day 4 – Day trip to Braga • Day 5 – Day trip to the Douro Valley (by car, train or river cruise) • Day 6 – Day trip to Aveiro and Costa Nova • Day 7 – Day trip to Vila do Conde or Lamego Insight: All of these day trips are possible using public transport, so there is no need for a car while on holiday in Porto. Related articles: 1 week in Porto (with map) - Porto day trips

The historic centre of Guimarães

When to visit Porto?

The best time of year to visit Porto is in the late spring or early autumn. This is the ideal time for sightseeing and day trips, as the weather is good and there are fewer tourists around.

During the peak season of July and August, the weather is hot and dry, but the city will be packed with visitors. If you plan to visit during the peak season, always book flights and accommodation far in advance, as they will sell out.

Porto has surprisingly wet and chilly winters, and this wet weather continues until the end of April. As Porto is a major city, all tourist sights and activities remain open year-round. Related article: When to visit Porto?

Porto Portugal weather temperature hot cold

The average maximum day time temperature and night-time low for Porto

Porto Portugal sunshine rainfall rain sun

The average hours of sunshine per day and amount of rain per month

Where to stay in Porto?

On a map, Porto appears as a large and sprawling city, but the actual tourist area is relatively compact.

The majority of visitors stay on the northern side of the Douro River, within the Ribeira or Baixa districts, or within walking distance (around 400m) of them. If you are travelling to Porto for business, there are many international chain hotels along the Avenida da Boavista, and this may be a better area for you. For a map and guide to the best areas of Porto to be based in please see this guide .

Is Porto an expensive destination?

Porto provides exceptional value when compared to other western European cities. Public transport is cheap and dining out can be inexpensive, so long as you stay away from the tourist-focused restaurants.

All tourist attractions and activities are reasonably priced, so unlike many other major tourist destinations you will not feel as though you are being constantly exploited or ripped off. Overall, a city break to Porto will cost significantly less than a comparative holiday to other European cities. Related articles: Cost of a trip to Porto

Porto for 2024

Porto is expecting a sell-out peak season for 2024, as visitors seek safe destinations within Europe. Because of this expected popularity, it is advisable to purchase flights and accommodation as soon as possible, before prices increase and sell out. Being a popular weekend city break destination, Friday evening and Sunday/Monday flights tend to sell out first.

The magnificent Câmara Municipal do Porto in the Praça da Liberdade

Are there beaches close to Porto?

Porto is situated along the Costa Verde, a dramatic coastline of rocky headlands, sandy beaches and powerful waves that roll in from the Atlantic.

Dotted along this coastline are traditional fishing towns and pleasant beach resorts, including Espinho, Vila do Conde, Povoa de Varzim and Costa Nova.

Close to Porto are the small beaches of the Foz district, while the largest sandy beach is the Praia de Matosinhos.

Other good beaches can be found near the charming town of Vila do Conde or around the village of Miramar. The modern town of Povoa de Varzim boasts a huge beach and is popular with Portuguese tourists. Related article: Porto beaches

Matosinhos is the best beach close to Porto

Or to escape the crowds, head to the deserted beaches near Praia de Miramar

Is Porto suitable for children and families?

Porto is a great destination for children if you are looking to take a city break with your family. The Portuguese have a family-focused culture, and children will be welcomed in all restaurants, hotels and shops. There is a range of activities that will entertain children, including tram rides, boat rides and the cable car.

Porto or Lisbon?

Although both cities have their own unique character and charm, visitors new to Portugal should consider them very similar. Both cities have pretty historic centres, vibrant nightlife, are close to beaches, and offer many enjoyable day trips. As a visitor, you will not be disappointed with either one. Related articles: Our Lisbon guide

What are the best day trips from Porto?

Porto lies at the centre of a region full of historic towns and characterful cities, all of which can be easily visited as a day trip from Porto. The best day trips include Guimarães (the historic birthplace of Portugal), Braga (the religious centre of Portugal), Aveiro (a charming canal town) or a cruise along the Douro River to the heart of the vineyard region.

The suggested order for day trips that can be visited using public transport are: 1) Guimarães 2) Braga 3) Douro Valley tour 4) Aveiro 5) Vila do Conde Related articles: Porto day trips - Braga – Guimarães – Aveiro

The Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga

Porto airport

Porto has a modern international airport that offers flights to many parts of Europe.

Situated 14km to the north of the city, the airport is connected to Porto by the metro network. The metro departs every 20 minutes (7am-11pm) and a single ticket costs €2.25. There are taxis at the airport (20 minutes to city centre, €25-€30) along with ride-hailing cars such as Uber or Bolt that are marginally cheaper. Insight: Portugal has an excellent express train network and is only a 3-hour train ride from Porto to Lisbon. Related articles: Porto airport to the city

Is Porto Safe?

Porto is a very safe city and has low levels of crime when compared to cities of a similar size.

Obviously, you must use the same common sense as you would back home, as there can be opportunistic thieves and pickpockets around. Porto is a fantastic and safe destination for solo travellers, older visitors and families. The city is also perfectly safe for solo female travellers.

Will language be an issue?

English is fluently spoken by everyone who works within the tourist industry.

All transport hubs, including railway stations, metro and airports have English instructions and signposting. When dining out, all restaurants and cafes will have English menus and, if not, waiters are always happy to translate. You will not have any language problems while in Porto.

Do I need a car for Porto?

A car is not needed for a trip to Porto, as there is excellent public transport and inexpensive taxis. Driving in central Porto can be very demanding, with erratic drivers, confusing road layouts and limited car parking.

All of the popular day trip destinations (such as Braga, Guimarães, Douro Valley Aveiro) have direct train services from Porto. However, a car can be useful if you wish to explore the far north or east of Portugal.

Porto for a backpacking trip

Porto is a popular backpacking and budget holiday destination, as there are many excellent hostels, inexpensive restaurants and lots of similarly-minded, worldly travellers. The nightlife of the city is lively and liberal and the city always has a bustling atmosphere. There is always a good backpacking community comprised of a wide range of nationalities.

Our most popular guides to Porto and northern Portugal

Home page and introduction to Porto

Top 10 Porto

What are the top 10 sights and activities in Porto?

Where to stay?

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

When to visit?

When best to visit Porto and weather guide

Cost of trip

How much would a trip to Porto cost?

1 week holiday

Discover the entire Porto region in 1 week

48 hours in Porto

Itinerary for two fully packed days in Porto

Walking tour

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

Porto's beaches

Porto is on a coastline of glorious beaches

Porto day trips

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

Douro by car

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

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

Linha do Douro

Ride the scenic railway as it snakes up the beautiful Douro Valley

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
1 Week Porto
Porto in 3 Days
Porto in 2 Days

Porto Beaches

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

Other guides

Porto Language
Serra da Estrela by car
Is it safe to visit Porto?
Porto Airport
Chaves Portugal

Viana Do Castelo

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

Porto Guides

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

Porto or...

Porto or Barcelona
Porto or Copenhagen
Porto or Florence
Porto or Lisbon
Porto or Madrid
Porto or Milan
Porto or Seville

Matosinhos intro Matosinhos beach

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

Portugal Guides

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

Central Portugal

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

Lisbon Guides

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

South Portugal

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

The best guide to Porto

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Porto
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Porto Itinerary: Things to do in Porto in 1, 2, 3 days
PORTO Portugal LIVE Exploring Downtown & Riverside Porto, Portugal
Interesting Facts About Portugal
TOURIST SPOTS AND TIPS TO VISIT IN PORTO PORTUGAL
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Porto Map
Map of Porto Places Listed on the Map of Porto. The best points of access to the city are the main railway stations at São Bento and Campanha.Find Porto museums, churches and parks in Porto.. These include the interesting Torre dos Clerigos and the Igreja dos Clerigos both designed in the 18th century by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. An excellent park to relax is the Jardim do Palácio ...
Map of Porto
Icons on the Porto interactive map. The map is very easy to use: Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators. Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map. Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards. Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of ...
Porto Printable Tourist Map
See the best attraction in Porto Printable Tourist Map. Deutschland United States España France Italia Nederland Polska Brasil Porto Printable Tourist Map. Print the full size map. Download the full size map. Create your own map. Porto District Map: The Attractions. 1. ...
Porto Attractions Map
Interactive map of Porto with all popular attractions - Cais da Ribeira, Dom Luis Bridge, Church of São Francisco and more. Take a look at our detailed itineraries, guides and maps to help you plan your trip to Porto. ... Visit Portugal's prestigious Douro Valley on this full-day wine ... read more. Details & Booking Authentic Douro Wine ...
Map of Porto
Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Porto by categories. Get directions in Google Maps to each place. Export all places to save to your Google Maps. Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines. Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone.
Porto tourist map
Description: This map shows streets, street index, museums, monuments, churches, points of interest, tourist attractions and sightseeings in Porto.
The Ultimate Guide to Porto: Porto Travel Guide
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.
23 Top Attractions & Things to do in Porto (+Map)
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.
25 Best Things to Do in Porto (Portugal)
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.
15 of the best things to do in Porto
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.
Porto City Guide: A Complete Plan For First-Timers
Top 5 places to go in Porto It's really hard to keep the list so damn short, but here you go! Clérigos. The iconic symbol of Porto, Torre dos Clérigos (Clérigos Tower) is a Baroque bell tower of the church with the same name. At the moment of its construction in the 18th century, the tower was the tallest building in Portugal!. Just in front, the recently renovated Passeio dos Clérigos ...
Porto travel
Explore Porto holidays and discover the best time and places to visit. Lonely Planet. Destinations. Planning ... What to eat where in Porto, Portugal's best place for fine dining on a budget. Sep 8, 2023 • 7 min read ... covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance. Shop Our Guidebooks. Go Beyond Porto and beyond. Beyond Porto. Aliados ...
Porto; Top 10 sights, attractions, activities and things to do
8. Beach time at Matosinhos beach. 9. Dining in the Bom Sucesso market. 10. The nightlife along the Galerias de Paris. The interactive map below displays the location of the top 10 sights and top 10 activities; the green tags mark the top sights, and the yellow tags are for the top 10 activities.
Porto in One Day
When to Visit Porto. Porto is a coastal city in the north of Portugal and enjoys hot summers, pleasantly warm spring and autumn months and mild, wet winters.. The best time to visit Porto is late spring or early autumn.There will be fewer visitors and better deals on travel and accommodation, but the weather will still be lovely with warm sunshine and little rain.
18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Porto
6. Ponte Dom Luís I. Ponte Dom Luís I. 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.
18 Best Things to Do in Porto You Can't Really Miss
Admire the Panoramic Views from Clerigos Tower. The 76-meter high Clerigos Tower is an icon of Porto. This stunning Baroque bell tower dominates the city skyline. Climbing the tower to see the bird's eye view of the surroundings is one of the best things to do in Porto. Also, it is the highest building in the city.
Porto in 1 day; a walking tour of Porto with map
Porto in 1 day; a walking tour of Porto with map. Porto is a charismatic city that offers historic monuments, outstanding tourist activities and an endless abundance of Portuguese charm. The historic centre is relatively compact, and the main sights can be squeezed into a single, if long, day. Generally, we recommend two days to fully discover ...
Porto Guide: 10+ Things to See, Do, & Eat
Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is a captivating destination that beautifully marries history, culture, and urban charm. ... This attraction can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so it may be something you want to leave for an off-season visit. Details. Address: R. de São Filipe de Nery 4050-546 Porto, Portugal . Shop at ...
Porto Tourist Attractions Map PDF
The map will guide you and show your way to the top tourist attractions and famous places in the city such as the ClérigosTower, the Don Luis Bridge, the Igreja de SãoFrancisco and Igreja do Carmo, the Vila Nova de Gaia, the World of Discoveries, the Music House and the Contemporary Art Museum. Getting around the city by foot is also possible.
Porto Walking Tour: DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal Map. Use this Google Map to find an interactive version of all the stops on our Free Porto Walking Tour below. You can also pick up a free Porto tourist map at the Tourist Information Office. Porto Walking Tour Map and Directions. In our Porto Walking Tour Self Guided route, we include written directions, as well as a map link ...
Porto, Portugal; a tourism and holiday guide for 2024
Porto is expecting a sell-out peak season for 2024, as visitors seek safe destinations within Europe. Because of this expected popularity, it is advisable to purchase flights and accommodation as soon as possible, before prices increase and sell out. Being a popular weekend city break destination, Friday evening and Sunday/Monday flights tend ...

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1. Clérigos Tower

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1. Douro Valley

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Book Peneda-Geres National Park Tours

3. Matosinhos

Book Matosinhos Beach Activities

What are some activities for kids in Porto, Portugal?

Book Sea Life Ticket

Book World of Discoveries Ticket

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

Where to eat in Porto, Portugal?

Porto Food Tours & Tastings

1. Taberna Santo António, Rua Virtudes

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

3. Tasquinha Ze Povinho , Rua Clemente Meneres

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

1. Arvore do Mundo, Rua do Duque de Lole

2. Kind Kitchen , Rua do Bonjardim

3. My Green Pastry , Praça da República

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

1. Pedro Lemos, Rua do Padre Luís Cabral

2. Antiqvvm , Rua de Entre Quintas

Guide to Porto Restaurants 2022

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

The metro in Porto, Portugal

The tram in Porto, Portugal