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Top Things to Do in Porto
“Porto offers lots to explore in a short time. Spend at least 2 days, but 3-4 is best. Ready to discover Porto’s best? We’ve spent 3 days there before and a week previously. Much has changed, but lots remains.
For a short visit, start with our top Porto attractions. We’ll cover the main ones first, then add more. Check out these 8 ideal attractions for a 2-day visit in Porto, Portugal.”
1. Stroll and Shop at Cais da Ribeira
You can’t help but be enthralled with the beauty of Cais da Ribeira, one of the most beautiful districts in Porto. Its tightly packed, colorful buildings lining the Douro River are stacked together, housing restaurants, markets, and boutiques. It’s the first place you’ll want to visit in Porto for that typical view of the city. You know, the typical sight you see on all the postcards.
This is one of the oldest parts of Porto, dating back to the Middle Ages, and walking through its narrow streets while admiring its old colorful houses with historic balconies will take you back in time.
Keep an eye out for the many traditional facades covered with azulejos (decorative ceramic tiles) that are particularly notable. Stop at an outdoor cafe for a coffee or a glass of port wine and sit back and relax as you take in the views of the Douro River and the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.
2. Take a River Cruise on the Douro River
Whenever we visit a city on a river, we always try to get on the water and take a river cruise. Porto is located on the Douro River, and the best way to take in the views of the Cais da Ribeira, Vila Nova de Gaia, and the city’s bridges is to take a Douro River cruise.
We booked a 6 Bridges river cruise, which was the perfect time to see the sights and the six bridges that span the Douro River in Porto. The 50-minute cruise runs along the Douro River, giving you views of the bridges and sights along the waterfront for only €15. You can book tours from the Vila Nova de Gaia waterfront and Cais da Ribeira.
This tour with Get Your Guide includes a tour of the Douro River while enjoying four different types of port wine. Choose from a sunset cruise or day cruise that takes you under the famous River Douro bridges.
3. Porto Sail Boat Tour
You can also book a small group sailboat tour. We wish we had done this tour as we saw many people enjoying wine while enjoying a more private and luxurious cruise as they enjoyed the sights along a Douro River Cruise.
Why should you take a cruise on the Duoro? Well, there are so many things to see like the Portuguese Stock Exchange, various port lodges, and Porto’s five famous bridges: Ponte de Dom Luis I, Ponte Infante Dom Henrique, Ponte da Arrabida, Ponte D. Maria Pia, Ponte de Sao Joao, Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, Cais da Ribeira and Cais da Gaia.
You can even cruise all the way to the Douro Valley, which we’ll be doing when we visit again in March.
4. Walk Across the Dom Luís I Bridge
Speaking of the Dom Luis Bridge, you can do more than admire this grand structure. One of our favorite things to do in Porto was walking across the Dom Luis I Bridge. You can cross high or low. (We did both)
The Dom Luis I Bridge is a work of art designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, is an engineering marvel, and adds to the area’s picturesque scenery.
Connecting Cais Da Ribeira with Vila Nova de Gaia, the Dom Luis i Bridge shares the crossing with pedestrians, cable cars, and cars below. Make sure to stop for some photographs of the River Douro partway across for unique views of the city.
5. Drink Aperol Spritz at Jardim do Morro
With striking views overlooking the Douro River, the Esplanada do Teleferico bar Jardim Do Morro is the perfect place to stop and cool down once you cross The Dom Luis I Bridge. This lively bar at the top of the Gaia Teleferico has a great patio looking out over Cais da Ribeira and the city of Porto. It has an extensive cocktail menu, food, and one of the only public toilets in the area. Trust me, that line is long!
This restaurant is worth it for the view, and if you can splurge on a cocktail that costs about $15 USD, you’ll have one of the best views in the city.
6. Tour the Port Wine Cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia
Port wine, also known as Vinho do Porto, is a sweet fortified wine produced exclusively in the Douro Valley. While the grapes are grown, and the wine is initially made in the Douro Valley, it is traditionally transported to the Vila Nova de Gaia port cellars, just across the river from Porto, for aging and blending. Read more about the Douro Valley here.
No trip to Porto would be complete without booking a port wine tour of the many wine cellars lining the waterfront, followed by wine tastings. Port is very popular around the world, particularly in England. In 1703, the Methuen Treaty made it economical for the British to import port wine, helping its popularity grow in the UK.
Taylor’s
We booked a port wine tasting at Taylor’s because they supply port wine to the British Royal Family. Their port was the first in space thanks to a Texas billionaire. We tried and bought a spectacular bottle. Taylor’s in Vila Nova de Gaia offers cellar tours. It’s pricey, but it’s the best port wine we tried and definitely worth it to explore the city’s port wine culture.
Calem
Porto has many cellars offering tours and tastings, so you don’t have to go far for a great experience. Calem, right by the water, is super popular, with tours, a museum, a store, and a bar. We tried their wines, got hooked on port, and even bought a vintage bottle!
Along Vila Nova de Gaia’s waterfront, tons of cellars invite you to taste, tour, or simply relax with a glass of port, enjoying the Douro River’s vibe. When in Porto, trying port wine is a must.
This awesome tour bundles a visit to Calem’s cellar, port tasting, and a Fado Show, ticking off three incredible things to do in Porto.
7. Watch Sunset From Vila Nova de Gaia
If you don’t want to pay for a cocktail, the grassy hill across the street is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Porto. This is a beautiful city, and one of the best things to do in Porto is to sit back and enjoy the sunset from viewpoints like Miradouro das Virtudes.
Grab a blanket and a coffee and pick a place on the grassy bank as you watch the sunset over the entire city. After you have finished watching the sunset, take a stroll through Gaia and find a restaurant along the waterfront for dinner.
8. São bento train station
During your second day in Porto, we suggest heading to the São Bento station first thing in the morning before the tours begin.
Chances are if you are traveling through Portugal by train, you will arrive in the city center at São Bento Railway Station. This beautiful train station is often touted as one of Europe’s most beautiful train stations thanks to its 20,000 azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles). These tiles can be found in the Sao Bento station building and tell the story of Portuguese history.
Sao Bento Station can get very crowded, and plenty of tour groups are going through, but it is worth seeing. If you are taking the train in or out of Porto, you can stop for a look while you are traveling through. If not, make sure to visit it early in the morning or later in the evening.
9. Livraria Lello
No Porto Itinerary would be complete without stopping at Livraria Lello. Often hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, Livraria Lello boasts a stunning neo-Gothic façade that leads you into a literary wonderland. Inside, you’ll find an exquisite, curvaceous wooden staircase and enchanting stained glass ceiling, creating an atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
This historic bookstore, dating back to 1906, is rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series during her time in Porto. Beyond its rumored connection to the magical world of Hogwarts, Livraria Lello offers an impressive collection of Portuguese literature, including rare books and editions.
Its unique charm, cultural heritage, and Harry Potter connection make it a top attraction in Porto. Perfect for adding a touch of magic and history to your visit. Whether you’re a bibliophile or simply appreciate historical architecture, Livraria Lello is an unmissable stop on any Porto itinerary.
Book your tickets well in advance as the entrance to this bookstore is timed, and you can only enter with a ticket.
10. Mercado do Bolhão
One of our favorite things to do in Porto was to spend an afternoon in Mercado Do Bolhão. This historic market in central Porto is full of shops selling olive oil, port wine, fine cheese, meats, and fresh fruit and vegetables.
The Mercado do Bolhão dates back to the early 19th century and was originally an open-air bazaar where farmers from the outskirts of Porto would come to sell their produce. The name “Bolhão” is thought to derive from a large bubble (bolha) in the ground near the site.
Today, it is covered and climate-controlled, making for a comfortable escape from the heat. You can order a gin and tonic, a glass of port wine, or a glass of red wine and shop while you sip. It is one of the friendliest and most energetic markets we’ve ever visited.
We tasted olive oil, ordered a port and tonic, and dined on meat and cheese while we perused its fresh flowers and azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles). This is a great place to stop for lunch or a coffee when visiting Porto as well.
11. Explore the Waterfront of Gaia
A similar waterfront to Cais da Ribeira, we enjoyed this waterfront Promenade on the Gaia side of the Douro River much better. It was less crowded and gave us views of the city center and the colorful buildings of Cais da Ribeira. Along this waterfront, you will find plenty of Port cellars and tasting rooms, restaurants, and boutiques.
You can book boat tours from this side as well, and you can watch street musicians, eat street food, and buy from local vendors. After sunset, grab a bit to eat at a traditional restaurant and people watch as you sit on the terrace. You can also catch the Teleferico back up to the upper level of the Dom Louís I bridge from down here instead of having to walk up.
12. Pastel de Bacalhau
Livraria Lello isn’t the only beautiful store in Porto. Porto has taken the circus and art deco feel of storefronts and made it an art form. Located on the Gaia side of Porto Portugal, Pastel de Bacalhau is a fried cod store that feels like a circus. When you walk in, a musician is playing the pipe organ in the midst of the colorful decor and winding staircases.
You can order this popular Portuguese dish and sit on the second story as you watch the tourists come in and marvel at the scene. Get yourself a port, sit back and relax, and take in the circus-like atmosphere.
13. Wonderful World of Portuguese Cans
The World of Cans, a hit in Porto, now has a spot in Times Square, NYC, similar to Livraria Lello and Pastel de Bacalhau shops. It’s a blend of store, museum, arcade, and gallery, a magical place across two floors reminiscent of Harry Potter’s world, colorful and enchanting. The walls showcase canned fish collectibles and interactive displays with videos, lights, and art. A must-visit along Gaia’s waterfront!
14. Teleférico de Gaia
When you get to the end of Gaia’s waterfront, skip the walk back and instead op on the Teleférico de Gaia. This cable car ride offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Douro River, the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and the historic Porto riverside.
As you glide from the picturesque Jardim do Morro to the renowned Port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, you’ll capture Instagram-worthy snapshots of the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of Porto from the skies, an experience that beautifully complements a day of exploration in one of Portugal’s most enchanting cities.
Enjoy different viewpoints of Porto and its bridges by riding this cable car.
Located in the city center, Rua de Santa Catarina is a bustling pedestrian street. As one of the city’s most popular shopping boulevards, Rua de Santa Catarina offers a delightful mix of international brands and traditional Portuguese shops, providing a unique shopping experience.
This lively street is not only a shopper’s paradise but also a hub for street performers and local artisans. Make sure to keep an eye out for Capela das Almas, adorned with striking blue-and-white azulejo tiles that depict religious scenes. This blend of shopping, dining, and cultural sights makes Rua de Santa Catarina a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Porto.
Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion trends, unique souvenirs, or just enjoying a leisurely walk through the heart of the city, Rua de Santa Catarina promises an unforgettable experience.
16. Café Majestic
Major Porto attractions along this street include the gorgeous Café Majestic, a historic café known for its exquisite Art Nouveau décor and rich cultural history. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor coffee in this iconic establishment. It was once touted as the most beautiful cafe in the world.
While I think there are more beautiful cafes out there, we enjoyed going inside for a Pastel de Nata and cappuccino. It’s expensive, but the ambiance is lovely.
This is probably all that you will be able to fit in two days in Porto. And even then, it will be a bit rushed. If you are staying longer, read on to see other things to do in Porto.
17. Praça da Liberdade
Start day three in Porto at Praça da Liberdade, a grand plaza in the city center, brimming with history where the old meets the new in Porto.
Surrounded by impressive architectural landmarks, including the striking Town Hall and various classical buildings, Praça da Liberdade is a perfect blend of Porto’s rich past and dynamic present.
The square is not just a visual treat but also a hub for cultural activities and events, making it an ideal spot to experience the local vibe. Stroll along the wide avenues, enjoy the elegant ambiance, and indulge in the numerous cafes and restaurants lining the square.
Don’t miss the iconic statue of King Pedro IV, a symbol of Portuguese liberalism, which dominates the plaza. Praça da Liberdade is also a gateway to the famous Avenida dos Aliados, leading to more architectural wonders and shopping opportunities.
18. Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral is a symbol of Porto’s historical and architectural heritage. Nestled in the city center, this formidable Romanesque structure dates back to the 12th century. Its imposing façade and twin towers offer breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River.
The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, featuring a beautiful Baroque altar, exquisite Gothic cloisters adorned with azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles), and a treasure trove of religious artifacts.
Its strategic location atop the Pena Ventosa Hill makes Porto Cathedral a perfect starting point for exploring the historic center of Porto. Take a deep dive into Porto’s history, or simply enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
19. Climb the Bell Tower of Clérigos Church
The Clérigos Church and Tower in Porto are a must-see. The church showcases stunning Baroque architecture from the 18th century, while the tower, one of the city’s tallest structures, offers panoramic views after a climb up 225 steps. Easily reachable on foot in Porto’s center, it’s a great stop for any itinerary.
20. São Francisco Church (Saint Francis Church)
São Francisco Church in Porto, a UNESCO site, is popular for its Gothic exterior and rich Baroque interior. The church blends contrasting architectural styles, featuring lavish decorations inside and a simple façade.
Inside, the church dazzles with intricate carvings and gilded altarpieces crafted by local artisans from the 17th and 18th centuries. The museum provides insights into its history and ties to the Franciscan Order, appealing to art enthusiasts exploring Porto’s heritage.
21. Ride the Trolley
I will admit that riding the trolley was high on my list of things to do in Porto. However, once we hopped aboard the tram it was a disappointment. The train is loud and hot, and you can’t see a lot from it. We recommend taking a photograph of it rather than riding the tram. It is quite expensive as well, with a return ticket costing €14 for two people.
This tram is simply a ride out to the Foz district and back. If you want to go to the beach on a sunny day, this may be a fun way to get out there, but you can save yourself time and money by hiring a taxi or Uber.
22. Walk Along Porto’s 14th-century Wall
Known as the Fernandina Wall (Muralha Fernandina), the old city wall dates back to the 14th century and is steeped in history. Walking along these walls offers a glimpse into the past and offers unbeatable views of the Douro. A picturesque portion of the city wall runs parallel to the funicular on the North Bank of the river at the Dom Luís I Bridge.
The elevated position of the city walls provides spectacular views of Porto’s picturesque landscape, including the Douro River, traditional houses, and the famous Dom Luís I Bridge. The walk is relatively easy for most fitness levels, making it a suitable activity for a wide range of tourists, including families.
23. Porto Bridge Climb
If you have several days in Porto, why not add a little adventure to your trip and book a Porto Bridge Climb? Located along the Douro River, this unique experience offers a guided climb on the Arrábida bridge.
For just 15 euros, you’ll ascend to the top for panoramic views of the river and Porto creating the chance to snap that perfect Instagram-worthy photo. Its popularity stems from the blend of adventure, affordability, and the opportunity to see Porto from a rare vantage point.
24. Eat Traditional Portuguese Food
The Portuguese are passionate about their food, and when visiting Porto, you must stop to enjoy a culinary journey. Portuguese dishes include the Francesinha sandwich, fresh seafood, and the famous Pastel de Nata. You must also pick up some sardines at the Fantastic World of Portuguese cans and enjoy a Pastel de Bacalhau. Read more: Portuguese Food: 26 Traditional Dishes to try in Portugal or at home.
25. Wow Cultural District (World of Wine)
The newest art district in Porto, Portugal, is not to be missed. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, take the winding streets up from the river to enjoy the cobblestone streets of Gaia. There are restaurants, art galleries, patios, and beautiful views of both Porto and Gaia.
You will find Taylor’s Port Wine here, a Chocolate Factory, the Instagram-worthy Pink Palace, and other museums. You can get the WoW pass to enjoy it all.
26. Palácio da Bolsa
If you have four or more days in Porto, you’ll want to add going into The Palacio da Bolsa to your itinerary. The Palacio da Bolsa is a 19th-century neoclassical marvel that stands on the waterfront. This former stock exchange is home to the breathtaking Salão Árabe (Arab Room). The Arab Room is definitely a highlight as it is an exquisitely decorated chamber inspired by Moorish designs, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop for the many events held here.
The grandeur continues as you step into the Pátio das Nações (Hall of Nations), where a stunning glass dome illuminates the intricate details of this grand hall, showcasing Porto’s historical significance in global trade.
Another highlight of a visit to Palacio Da Bolsa is the Noble Staircase which is an elegant and opulent architectural feat that leads you through the palace’s various rooms.
27. Casa da Música
If you’re in Porto for a few days, visit Casa da Música, a unique concert hall with diverse musical shows. Even without attending a performance, it’s worth seeing. Guided tours happen twice daily, Monday to Friday. The tours start at 11 am (in Portuguese) and 4 pm (in Portuguese and English) for 12 euros.
28. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal or Gardens of the Crystal Palace is a beautiful garden with fountains, sculptures, and peacocks. If you are spending more than a few days in Porto, the Crystal Palace is a lovely place to visit set on eight hectares. It dates back to the nineteenth century and is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Porto has become very popular and crowded so any chance to avoid the crowds is a welcome change.
29. Parque da Cidade do Porto (City Park)
City Park, or Parque da Cidade do Porto, is a vast 205-acre green haven in northern Portugal. It’s great for nature lovers, offering lush landscapes, winding paths, and serene lakes. Perfect for picnics, romantic walks, or family outings to see the peacocks. The Water Pavilion, originally from World Expo 98 in Lisbon, resides here. The park stretches to the Atlantic Ocean, providing free leisure and natural beauty.
30. Casa de Serralves
Casa de Serralves in Porto’s Boavista district is a must-visit cultural spot. This Art Deco mansion, part of the Serralves Foundation, sits in stunning gardens. For 10 euros, explore art exhibitions and lovely gardens, blending art, architecture, and nature.
How to Get to Porto, Portugal
Porto is located in Northern Portugal and traveling to Porto is easy to get to by plane, train, bus, and car.
By Plane
Porto’s main airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), easily linked to major European cities. Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, TAP Air Portugal, Lufthansa, and British Airways fly to Porto.
From the airport, reach the city center by metro (Line E – Violet), bus, taxi, or rental car. The metro takes about 30 minutes, leading to Sao Bento Train Station.
By Train
If you’re traveling from other parts of Europe or within Portugal, trains are a fast, affordable, and convenient option. Major cities like Madrid, Paris, and Lisbon have train services to Porto. We took the train from Gemaresh to Porto for a cost of about three euros.
Main Train Stations: Porto’s primary train stations are Porto-Campanhã Station and São Bento Train Station. Campanhã is the main hub for international and long-distance trains, while São Bento is centrally located and known for its beautiful azulejo tilework. If traveling from within Portugal, we recommend booking your ticket to São Bento Railway Station as it is very central to the old city and major attractions.
Train tickets can be booked via the Portuguese Railways (CP) website or at train stations. It’s advisable to book in advance for long-distance or high-speed trains.
By Bus
If you are traveling on a budget, we recommend booking a bus as buses are often more economical than trains and planes, though travel times can be longer.
Buses connect Porto with various cities in Portugal and other European countries. Companies like Eurolines, Flixbus, and Rede Expressos offer long-distance bus services.
The main bus terminal in Porto is at Campo 24 de Agosto, conveniently located within the city.
Car
We traveled through Portugal by renting a car. RentalCars.com is easy to book and car rentals are affordable in Portugal. When traveling to places like the Algarve or other off-the-beaten-path destinations, it is great to have flexibility. But if you are staying in the cities, it is not worth it as parking is expensive and transit is excellent.
Where to Stay in Porto
Stay in Porto’s city center for easy access to top attractions. Ribeira offers an immersive first-time experience by the Douro River—it’s super central. Baixa, just north of Ribeira, is Porto’s downtown, delivering a typical downtown vibe without the crowds. Want more info? Check our guide on Where to Stay in Porto for your first visit!
Porto is a beautiful city lined with many architectural styles and attractions. From Romanesque cathedrals to Neoclassical designs, you can spend days simply taking in the city’s architecture.
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