Are you looking for the best things to do in Porto? We’ve got you covered!
Our friend Sammy from My Blonde Bucket List covers this topic in more depth. She traveled Portugal solo for 6 weeks and even spent some time volunteering in a hostel. Portugal is one of her favorite countries in Europe!
Nestled in the northern region of Portugal, Porto stands out as a pretty unique city. With its stunning historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and, of course, the globally acclaimed port wine, Porto captivates visitors from all around the world.
Whether it’s exploring the streets of the Ribeira district or savoring a glass of the finest port wine while admiring the breathtaking views of the Douro River, every moment spent in Porto is an unforgettable experience.
7 Amazing Things to Do in Porto
Whether you’re looking for stunning views, delicious lunch, or exciting activities, Porto is worth traveling to. It’s a city that has something for everyone!
I’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Portugal’s second-largest city so you can get the most out of your trip.
1. Wander the Ribeira District
Exploring the charming Ribeira District is a must do and should be at the top of your list! This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere.
Admire the traditional Portuguese architecture of the Ribeira buildings. The structures really have retained their historic charm and you may feel as though you’ve stepped back in time a little bit!
In the Ribeira District, you can also enjoy the picturesque views on the Douro River and the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.
The bridge connects Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia so make sure you explore both sides of the river if you have the time. You’ll also get stunning panoramic views of the city from here so it’s worth crossing the bridge just for this.
2. Cruise on the Douro River
If you need a break from walking around, why not book a boat tour and cruise along the Douro River? There’s no better way to relax while seeing the city at the same time!
There are different group tour packages available which range from short sightseeing trips to full-day cruises with wine tastings. Whether you’re traveling here for a romantic getaway or an adventure with your family, there are many river cruise options available to make your Porto trip one to remember.
Book in advance to secure your spot!
3. Stroll through the São Bento Train Station
Take some time to admire the stunning azulejo panels inside the São Bento Train Station. These traditional ceramic tile murals depict Portuguese history and culture, making it a must-see.
Experience some of Portugal’s best art while also getting an insider’s glimpse at one of Porto’s oldest transport hubs. It really is worth stopping by.
4. Tour the Port Wine Cellars
You can’t visit Porto and not try a glass of port. It is what the city is famous for after all!
Take a guided wine tour of the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, located across the river, and learn about the history of port wine. You’ll get a chance to see the massive barrels and indulge in a few tastings.
If guided tours aren’t your thing, it’s also possible to pop into one of the popular cellars and just enjoy a glass of port on your own terms. This is what I did when I visited and it was such a lovely experience if you’re a bit short on time.
I visited Taylor’s Port but other popular cellars include Sandeman, Graham’s Port Lodge, and Porto Augusto’s.
5. Visit Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is known as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Even if you aren’t a bookworm, you aren’t going to want to miss this one. The shelves are filled with both Portuguese and international books.
Spend an afternoon (or a morning to try to beat the crowds) admiring the stunning architecture, intricate wooden bookshelves, and the famous red staircase.
There is an entrance fee to visit Livraria Lello and this is redeemable on a book purchase. It’s also possible to buy your tickets online.
6. Eat a Pastel de nata
If you’ve never heard of a pastel de nata then you need to try one ASAP! These delicious treats are Portugal’s signature sweet and you can find them in almost every bakery. Flaky golden pastry filled with creamy custard, they really are a must-try.
Head to Castro’s or Mercador Café for the best pastel de nata’s in town. Enjoy one (or three – trust me you’ll be tempted!) with a coffee on the go or save it for an afternoon snack.
7. Visit Clerigos Tower and Church
The Clerigos Tower and Church stand tall as one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks, dominating the city skyline.
The narrow, spiral staircase in the Clerigos Tower takes you to the top, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Porto. The cityscape, the Douro River, and the distant hills create a view that’s well worth the climb.
Afterward, be sure to check out the Clerigos Church next to the tower. You’ll be amazed by the beautiful Baroque ornamentation, intricate woodwork, and details inside. The design of the church is pretty spectacular, inviting you to admire Porto’s religious and artistic heritage.
Where to Stay in Porto
To truly immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Porto, Ribeira is the place to be. I highly recommend staying in this charming neighborhood to make the most out of your time in Porto.
Indulge in the authentic experience of staying in quaint hostels or hotels that will transport you back in time with their unique vintage charm.
And the best part? You’ll be just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque Douro River, allowing you to soak in the mesmerizing views and ambiance of this beautiful city.
Best hotels to stay in the Ribeira District
Frequently Asked Questions About Porto
How many days do you need in Porto?
If you’re unsure about how much time to spend in Porto, unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all all answer. Generally speaking, two full days would be enough to tick off the main sights but how much time you spend here mainly comes down to your interests and preferences.
Are you a history enthusiast longing to explore the city’s rich heritage and ancient architecture? Or perhaps a food lover eager to indulge in the vibrant culinary scene and taste the famous port wine?
If you’re just looking to quickly check out the city and move on in a day or two, that’s totally doable. But if you really want to dive in and explore it thoroughly, I’d recommend looking at spending around three to five days here.
There’s plenty to see and do in Porto, especially if you visit in the summer because Averio is a lovely spot for a day trip. This is where you’ll find the famous striped-colored houses in Coasta Nova.
So why not take your time to soak up the city’s one-of-a-kind charm, and let Porto unveil its hidden gems at your own pace?
How to Get Around Porto
Porto is a pretty easy city to get around thanks to it being very walkable. You don’t need to worry about public transport or hiring a car in order to see the main sights if you’re planning on staying central.
You will need some comfortable shoes, however – hello cobblestone streets and steep hills!
Don’t let that put you off though, I think the best way to immerse yourself in a city is to walk it. Because of Porto’s compact size, you’ll be able to knock off a lot of the main sites in a day or two.
Should you buy the Porto.Card?
Personally, I didn’t buy the Porto card and managed just fine. Porto is quite a compact city so it’s possible to get around on foot.
If you are planning on using public transport a lot then it may be worth it, as far as transport cards go it is pretty reasonably priced. You also get free entry into 7 different museums which is handy if you are planning on visiting some of these anyway!
A good thing to note is that the historic trams are excluded.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Porto
Porto is a place that I would happily return to again and again. I have no doubt that you’ll feel the exact same after your trip.
It’s a vibrant city full of life, from its historic monuments and architecture to its delicious pastel de natas. With its rich culture and variety of tourist attractions, it has something to offer everyone.
My favorite part is how the river runs through the center of the city which gives the place such a relaxed feel in the summer months. You can’t beat sitting down and having a drink right by the water!
It’s also a particularly good destination for budget and solo travelers thanks to Portugal being a rather cheap European country and the fact that there are lots of activities you can do in Porto for free. I traveled Portugal solo and I felt completely safe the entire time while having lots of fun, it’s certainly a destination I would recommend.
So, pack your bags and explore the best of what the city has to offer – you won’t regret it!
