Nestled along the banks of the Douro River, Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers a beautiful blend of historic charm, culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. From its narrow streets in the historic centre to the rich, world-famous port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, this coastal city is perfect for those looking to enjoy both tradition and adventure.
We stayed here for a few days before we headed off on our Portuguese road-trip. Enjoy!
The practical stuff
How long should you stay in Porto?
Porto is compact, but its variety of experiences means you can easily spend a week here and still feel like there’s more to explore. For a thorough experience, three to four days is a great amount of time to see the major attractions while allowing time for leisurely strolls and day trips.
If you’re only passing through, you could technically cover the essentials in two days, but that wouldn’t give you time to enjoy a wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia or savour a delicious pastel de nata while people-watching on Praça da Ribeira. We recommend planning for four days to experience the rich culture and authentic atmosphere at a slower pace.
Where should you stay in Porto?
The best neighbourhoods to stay in will depend on your preferences. If you want to be in the heart of the action, the city centre around Praça da Ribeira is ideal. Staying here gives you easy access to the riverfront and historic buildings like the Palácio da Bolsa and Igreja de São Francisco.
For a quieter stay, consider Cedofeita or Foz do Douro. Cedofeita is a charming artsy district with boutique shops and a laid-back vibe, while Foz do Douro offers a coastal escape with stunning sea views, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing – but note that it’s further out of Porto. Wherever you choose, make sure it’s within easy access to Porto’s tram lines and public transportation.
How do you get to Porto?
Porto is well connected to the rest of Europe and beyond. Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is about 30 minutes from the city centre, and it’s easy to catch a metro, taxi, or bus into town.
If you’re already in the country, the train from Lisbon to Porto is an excellent choice and offers beautiful views of the Douro Valley as you travel.
Once in the city, Porto’s public transportation is convenient. The São Bento Train Station itself is a beautiful landmark and your gateway to explore Portugal further. Plus, the city’s vintage tram lines will take you up and down its iconic hills.
When should you go to Porto?
Porto is wonderful year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September. Spring and summer offer warm weather and sunshine, perfect for boat trips on the Douro River and outdoor dining at the many riverside restaurants. This is also when the vineyards in the Douro Valley are lush, making it a great time for wine lovers to indulge in a day trip.
Autumn, especially in October, is also a good option if you want to avoid summer crowds and still enjoy relatively mild weather. Winter is the quietest period, but Porto’s beauty shines through no matter the season, especially if you don’t mind occasional rain.
Porto in a nutshell
Location: Northwestern Portugal, along the Douro River.
Population: 230,000 (metro area: 1.7 million).
Language: Portuguese (English is widely spoken in tourist areas).
Currency: Euro (€). Card is widely accepted and ATMs are common.
Time zone: GMT + 0. Daylight saving time is observed in summer.
Climate: Mild Mediterranean; average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in summer.
Local dishes to try:
– Francesinha (sandwich with layers of meat and cheese – it’s an experience!)
– Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (salted codfish)
– Tripas à Moda do Porto (traditional tripe stew).
Safety: Generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets in tourist-heavy areas.
Tipping: Not obligatory; 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz, with Type C and F plugs.
What are the best places to go in Porto?
Cais da Ribeira
The Cais da Ribeira is Porto’s lively riverside district, and it’s one of the best places to soak up the city’s atmosphere. With its colourful buildings, bustling restaurants, and prime views of the Dom Luís I Bridge, it’s a great spot for dining al fresco, wandering along the waterfront, or simply people-watching.
It’s one of Porto’s most photogenic areas – it’s this district which is stereotypically associated with Porto – and offers a fantastic mix of both tourists and locals enjoying the sunny weather. By night, the area comes alive with bars and fado music drifting through the streets. And, of course, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Once you’ve wandered through the Cais da Ribeira, head up to the Igreja de São Nicolau, a lesser-known but lovely 18th-century church with a striking blue-and-white tile façade. A short walk from here brings you to Largo do Terreiro, a charming little square perfect for taking a breather.
It can be a bit pricier here for food and drink compared to other parts of the city, so if you’re on a budget, enjoy the atmosphere and then eat elsewhere.
Why go? Narrow streets and quintessential Porto.
How long? 2-3 hours.
Climb the Clérigos Tower
If you’re looking for one of the best views in Porto, start your journey by climbing the Clérigos Tower. This iconic 75-metre-high bell tower is one of Porto’s most famous landmarks and is hard to miss. Built in the 18th century, its baroque architecture stands out in the city centre. Climb the 240 steps to the top for a panoramic view of Porto’s rooftops, the Douro River, and beyond.
The tower is part of the Clérigos Church, a beautiful baroque church worth a visit as well. Although the climb might be a little strenuous, the views make it worthwhile.
The entry fee is €6, and early morning is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
Why go? Beautiful views and a way of getting your bearings in Porto.
How long? 1 hour
Tram line 1
Porto’s vintage tram line 1 is a delightful way to see the city from a different angle. The route takes you along the Douro River, starting from Praça da Ribeira and heading west toward the coastal district of Foz do Douro. Riding this charming tram feels like stepping back in time, and it offers a relaxed, scenic journey through some of Porto’s prettiest spots.
For those who want a break from walking tours, the tram offers a relaxing way to cover a good portion of the city’s highlights. Plus, the final stop in Foz do Douro is a great place to enjoy a stroll by the sea.
Tickets cost €3.50 one way and you can buy tickets on board. It’s best to catch the tram earlier in the day to avoid the busiest times.
Why go? Old world trams and a great way to see the city.
How long? 1-2 hours
Go for a boat trip on the Douro River
A boat trip along the Douro River is one of the most popular activities in Porto, and for good reason. There are several types of river cruises available, from short 50-minute trips that take you under the city’s six bridges to longer cruises that head up the river into the Douro Valley wine region.
Sailing down the Douro offers unparalleled views of both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, with their colourful riverside houses and iconic bridges. It’s a peaceful way to see the city and an absolute must-do for first-time visitors.
Prices start around €15 for a short cruise, but if you want a more luxurious experience, there are also full-day cruises with wine tastings.
Why go? The best way to see the city and a fun trip up the Douro valley.
How long? 1 hour – 1 day.
Vila Nova de Gaia
Just across the Douro River from Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia is world-famous for its port wine cellars. Here, you can take a tour of renowned port houses like Sandeman, Graham’s, and Taylor’s, where you’ll learn about the history of port wine and, of course, sample different varieties.
Aside from the port wine, Vila Nova de Gaia also offers stunning views of Porto from the waterfront, and you can even take a cable car ride for a different perspective. It’s a fantastic area to spend an afternoon sipping port and enjoying the scenery.
Most cellars offer tours for around €15-€20, which include tastings. Consider visiting two or three for a full wine tasting experience.
Why go? Port wine cellars and tastings, and a great view of Porto.
How long? 3-4 hours
Dom Luís I Bridge
Spanning the Douro River, the Dom Luís I Bridge is one of Porto’s most recognisable landmarks. Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s student, Théophile Seyrig, the bridge features two levels: one for pedestrians and cars, and the top for the metro. The views from the bridge are breathtaking, especially at sunset when the city is bathed in golden light.
Cross the bridge to explore Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side, home to the famous port wine cellars. Walking across the bridge is an experience in itself, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a unique perspective of Porto’s skyline.
Visit in the early evening for the best lighting. You can walk across for free, but take care on windy days as it can be quite gusty on the top deck.
Why go? Beautiful views and an iconic Porto bridge.
How long? 45 minutes.
Get lost on a walk
One of the best ways to truly experience Porto is simply to go for a walk. The city is made for wandering, with its hilly streets, hidden corners, and a mix of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy.
We find the best way is to go to an area, and wander down whichever street looks interesting. Getting lost is part of the fun, and once your legs are aching you can find a café or bar, recuperate, and then work out how to get back. Consider also taking a walking tour, if this is more your thing.
There’s a number of great neighbourhoods already featured in this guide, but here are our top three areas to explore which we haven’t covered elsewhere.
Miragaia
Miragaia is less touristy than some parts of Porto but just as beautiful, with pastel-coloured buildings, hanging laundry, and quiet streets leading to scenic viewpoints (including fantastic views of the river). It was once home to Porto’s Jewish and Armenian communities, and remnants of this history can be found in its architecture. Miragaia is also home to the Igreja de São Pedro de Miragaia, a peaceful church and the Museu de Vinho do Porto, which gives insight into Porto’s deep connection with wine production.
Cedofeita
Known as Porto’s creative district, Cedofeita has a laid-back vibe, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Here, you’ll find art galleries, street art, and independent boutiques tucked between trendy cafés and bars. The area is also home to Rua de Miguel Bombarda, often referred to as Porto’s “Art District”. While here, check out Igreja de São Martinho de Cedofeita – one of the oldest churches in Porto, dating back to the 6th century.
Baixa
The Baixa district, also known as downtown Porto, is full of grand architecture, bustling streets, and lively squares. It’s a fantastic area to wander if you want to see some of Porto’s main attractions, including a few that you may not have visited yet. Start at the Avenida dos Aliados, the main boulevard of Porto, lined with grand buildings, including the impressive Porto City Hall. Make sure to visit Igreja dos Congregados, a beautiful church with another one of Porto’s signature tiled facades. Another great spot for architecture is the Teatro Nacional São João, a grand neoclassical theatre located near Praça da Batalha.
Why go? The best way to see Porto.
How long? 1 – 2 hours, but combine it with some of the attractions elsewhere in this guide.
Palácio da Bolsa
Built in the 19th century, the opulent Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) showcases a stunning blend of architectural styles. The standout attraction is the Arab Room, a richly decorated hall that dazzles with its gold leaf and intricate designs.
Originally constructed as a place for Porto’s merchants to conduct business, it now hosts events and guided tours. If you’re keen to dive into Porto’s past, this is the place to be.
Guided tours are required and cost around €10. Book in advance, especially during the high season.
Why go? Historic buildings and the stunning Arab room.
How long? 1-2 hours
Catch the sunset from Parque das Virtudes
Parque das Virtudes is a nice enough park, but it comes into its own at sunset. Catching beautiful views of the sun setting over the Douro River with a glass of wine is a brilliant way to start your evening.
The best viewing place is on the road above the park. It does get busy, mainly with locals, and there’s a young crowd. There’s a few bars in the area too, offering a great place to get a drink once the sun has gone down.
Why go? Stunning sunsets.
How long? One hour.
Igreja de São Francisco
The Igreja de São Francisco looks modest from the outside, but don’t be fooled. Step inside, and you’ll find one of the most extravagant church interiors in all of Portugal. Almost every surface is covered in gilded wood carvings, particularly the Baroque-style altar.
Built in the 14th century, it also has a crypt beneath the church that’s well worth visiting. It’s a smaller site, but the craftsmanship and detail inside make it a must-see.
Tickets cost around €7, and the crypt tour is included. Mornings are less crowded.
Why go? Stunning architecture and decoration.
How long? 1 hour
Livraria Lello
Book lovers will adore Livraria Lello, considered by many to be the most beautiful bookstore in the world. Located in central Porto, it boasts an intricately carved wooden staircase, stained glass ceilings, and shelves packed with rare books.
The bookstore is often linked to J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto while writing Harry Potter and allegedly took inspiration from its magical atmosphere. While it can get crowded, the stunning design and literary significance make it well worth a visit.
Entry is €5, which is refunded if you buy a book. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Why go? Beautiful interiors and books.
How long? 45 minutes
Go the beach at Foz do Douro
Foz do Douro is one of Porto’s most charming and scenic neighbourhoods, located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, offering a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. This coastal district is popular with locals and visitors alike for its elegant promenade, historical landmarks, and stunning beaches.
A walk along the Avenida do Brasil will take you past a string of golden beaches, lined with palm trees and traditional Portuguese cafés. The sound of the ocean, the salty breeze, and the wide-open views of the Atlantic make it one of the best places in Porto to unwind. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, take a leisurely stroll, or just enjoy a glass of wine at a seaside café, Foz do Douro has something for everyone.
Foz do Douro is easily accessible by taking Tram Line 1, which offers a scenic journey from central Porto along the river.
Why go? Relaxation and beaches
How long? One day, or just an evening.
São Bento Train Station
Considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, São Bento isn’t just a transportation hub—it’s a destination in itself. The interior of the station is adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted blue-and-white azulejos (tiles), which depict significant moments from Portuguese history.
Built in the early 20th century, this station blends historic buildings with local artistic traditions. Whether you’re planning to catch a train or not, it’s worth visiting if you’re in the area just to admire the stunning tile work.
São Bento is free to visit, and as it’s located in the historic centre, it’s easy to stop by while exploring other nearby attractions.
Why go? A beautiful train station and a lot of tiles.
How long? 30-45 minutes
Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art
If you’re looking for Porto’s best art museum, head to the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. Set within a lush park, this striking museum houses rotating exhibits of modern and contemporary art. The building itself, designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira, is a work of art, blending minimalist architecture with the surrounding natural landscape.
Aside from the main museum, the Serralves estate also includes beautiful gardens, sculptures, and the Casa de Serralves, a stunning Art Deco villa. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing, culture-filled afternoon.
Admission is €20, which includes access to both the museum and gardens. Plan for at least a couple of hours here.
Why go? Brilliant art, and beautiful ground.
How long? 2-3 hours
Mercado do Bolhão
For a taste of local life, head to the Mercado do Bolhão. This bustling market is a Porto institution, with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. It’s the perfect place to sample some authentic Portuguese fare, from traditional fish dishes to the famous pastel de nata.
The market was recently renovated, but it still retains its old-world charm. It’s a great spot to pick up some unique souvenirs. It’s open Monday through Saturday, but it’s best to go in the morning when the vendors have the freshest offerings.
Why go? Market busyness and some great food.
How long? 1-2 hours
Casa da Música
For music lovers, Casa da Música is Porto’s leading concert hall and an architectural masterpiece. Designed by the renowned Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, the building’s futuristic design stands in contrast to Porto’s historic streets.
The venue hosts a wide range of performances, from classical music to jazz, and guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about its design.
Check the schedule for concerts during your visit. Tours cost around €10.
Why go? Contemporary architecture and cultural enrichness.
How long? 1-2 hours.
Day trips from Porto
Douro Valley: A day trip to the Douro Valley is a must for wine lovers. Visit the terraced vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and take in the stunning river views. If you don’t have a car then consider staying longer (as it’s a lot to fit into one day) or go on a guided tour.
Guimarães: Known as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães is filled with medieval charm and historic buildings.
Braga: Home to the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, Braga is a spiritual and architectural gem.
Aveiro: Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” this charming town offers colourful boats and quaint canals.
Matosinhos: A coastal town known for its seafood and beaches, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
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