Porto, the charming coastal city in northern Portugal, is a destination that effortlessly combines history, culture, and a laid-back vibe. Known for its iconic port wine, colorful architecture, and stunning views of the Douro River, Porto is a must-visit city that offers something for every kind of traveler.
If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city, here’s a friendly guide to the best activities and attractions in Porto, complete with tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Table of Contents
- Wander Through the Historic Ribeira District
- Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Watch the Sunset
- Tour the Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
- Admire the Livraria Lello
- Explore the Clérigos Tower
- Cruise Along the Douro River
- Visit the São Bento Railway Station
- Indulge in Traditional Portuguese Cuisine
- Discover the Gardens of the Palácio de Cristal
- Day Trip to the Douro Valley
- Marvel at the Church of São Francisco
- Enjoy Porto’s Nightlife
1
Wander Through the Historic Ribeira District
Start your Porto adventure in Ribeira, the city’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. With its colorful, tile-covered houses, cobbled streets, and riverside cafes, Ribeira is the perfect place to soak up Porto’s charm. Spend time exploring the narrow alleyways, browse the local shops, and relax at a café with a view of the Douro River.
2
Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Watch the Sunset
The Dom Luís I Bridge is one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks, connecting Ribeira to Vila Nova de Gaia. This double-decker metal bridge offers stunning views of the city and the Douro River. Walk across the upper level for panoramic views, or cross the lower level for a closer look at the riverfront.
Sunset at Jardim do Morro
Let me tell you, the number of travelers and locals who gather every evening at Jardim do Morro to watch the sunset is truly something special. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. The view is absolutely breathtaking, with the golden hues of the sunset casting a magical glow over Porto and the Douro River. But it’s not just the view—it’s the vibe. The energy of the crowd, the music from street performers, and the relaxed atmosphere make it unforgettable.
Here’s the plan: grab a little picnic, a €3 bottle of wine (yes, good wine is that affordable here!), and something comfy to sit on. Find a spot on the grass, sit back, and soak it all in. This might just be one of the most memorable moments of your trip to Portugal.
3
Tour the Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
No trip to Porto is complete without a visit to the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river. Learn about the history of port wine, the region’s most famous export, and enjoy tastings of different varieties. Some of the best cellars to visit include Taylor’s, Sandeman, and Graham’s.
Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are a few options we believe are among the best.
Vila Nova de Gaia: Port Wine Tasting with Cheese Pairing – Click Here
Porto: Cockburn’s Port Lodge Tour and Tasting – Click Here
4
Admire the Livraria Lello
For book lovers and architecture enthusiasts, the Livraria Lello is a must-visit. This stunning bookstore, often called one of the most beautiful in the world, features an ornate interior with a grand spiral staircase, stained glass windows, and intricate wooden carvings. It’s said to have inspired J.K. Rowling while she was writing Harry Potter.
Cost: Entry is €8, which can be used as credit toward a book purchase.
Opening Hours: Everyday from 9am to 7pm.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid long queues, as it’s one of Porto’s most popular attractions.
5
Explore the Clérigos Tower
For panoramic views of Porto, climb the Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos), a Baroque bell tower that stands 76 meters tall. The 225-step climb is worth it for the breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
Cost: €8 for entry.
Opening Hours: Everyday from 9am to 7pm.
Tip: Visit on a clear day for the best visibility and photos.
6
Cruise Along the Douro River
A Douro River cruise is a relaxing way to see Porto from a new perspective. These traditional boat tours, known as “Six Bridges Cruises”, take you along the river, showcasing Porto’s beautiful skyline and its famous bridges.
Tip: Opt for a late afternoon cruise to enjoy the city as the sun sets.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are a few options we believe are among the best.
Porto: 6 Bridges Port Wine River Cruise with 4 Tastings – Click Here
Porto: Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River – Click Here
7
Visit the São Bento Railway Station
Even if you’re not catching a train, the São Bento Railway Station is worth a visit. The station’s main hall is adorned with over 20,000 azulejo tiles, depicting scenes from Portugal’s history and culture. It’s a stunning example of traditional Portuguese tilework.
Tip: Spend a few minutes admiring the intricate details and snap some photos—it’s free!
8
Indulge in Traditional Portuguese Cuisine
Porto is a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of delicious local dishes to try. Don’t miss francesinha, a hearty sandwich filled with layers of meat, melted cheese, and a beer-based sauce. Other must-tries include bacalhau à brás (salt cod), caldo verde (kale soup), and pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
Best Spots: Try Café Santiago for francesinha or head to Mercado do Bolhão for fresh, local eats.
Tip: Pair your meal with a glass of vinho verde, a refreshing young wine from northern Portugal.
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9
Discover the Gardens of the Palácio de Cristal
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. These beautifully landscaped gardens offer stunning views of the Douro River, lush greenery, and peaceful walking paths. It’s a great spot to relax and recharge.
Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy it on one of the benches with a view.
10
Day Trip to the Douro Valley
While in Porto, take a day trip to the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine regions. Known for its terraced vineyards and scenic beauty, the Douro Valley is the perfect place to sample wine, visit family-owned wineries, and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.
The Priciest Activity in Porto: Is It Worth It?
In July 2024, I embarked on my first-ever wine tour—a day trip to the Douro Valley, and let me tell you, it was an incredible experience. Most tours, including the one I chose, feature a scenic river cruise and visits to two different wineries for tastings. For around €100, I got to meet amazing people, soak in picturesque views, and savor a variety of high-quality wines. For me, it was worth every euro, no question.
That said, just because it’s worth the price doesn’t mean it’s a must-do if you’re on a tight budget. If wine isn’t really your thing or if the €100 splurge doesn’t fit your plans, you can still enjoy a wine experience in Vila Nova de Gaia for a fraction of the cost. Many of the port wine cellars there offer tours and tastings for less than half the price of a Douro Valley excursion.
If you’re a wine lover or if you have the budget to indulge, I say go for it—you won’t regret it. But if not, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Porto without breaking the bank!
To learn more about this famous day trip from Porto, checkout Exploring the Douro Valley: Ultimate Day Trip from Porto. If you’re already convinced, I’ve put my recommendations down below.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are a few options we believe are among the best.
From Porto: Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch – Click Here
11
Marvel at the Church of São Francisco
The Church of São Francisco may look modest from the outside, but step inside, and you’ll be amazed by its opulent interior. Covered almost entirely in gold leaf, this Baroque masterpiece is one of Porto’s most stunning churches.
Cost: Entry is €7.50.
Opening Hours: Everyday from 9am to 6pm.
Tip: Don’t miss the eerie catacombs located beneath the church.
12
Enjoy Porto’s Nightlife
Porto’s nightlife scene is as vibrant as its streets during the day. Head to Galeria de Paris Street for bars and live music or explore Rua Cândido dos Reis for trendy spots. For a more relaxed vibe, sip wine by the Douro River and enjoy the evening lights.
Tip: Try a port-based cocktail, like a Porto Tonic, for a local twist.
Final Thoughts
Porto is a city that will steal your heart with its stunning views, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re sipping port wine in a riverside cellar, exploring the cobblestone streets of Ribeira, or cruising along the Douro River, Porto promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with this magical Portuguese city.
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