By Soren Rivero
Portugal’s capital city of Porto has long been celebrated for its rich history, delectable cuisine, and mesmerizing architecture. Located just along the Douro River, this charming metropolis has a personality of its own, offering travelers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture.
In this article, we'll highlight some of the best things to do in Porto.
Explore the Historic Ribeira District
Begin your adventure in the heart of Porto's historic center, the Ribeira district. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this neighborhood boasts narrow, cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and an atmosphere like none other. Soak in the phenomenal views by taking a leisurely stroll along the riverfront promenade, Rua da Ribeira, and take pictures of the Dom LuÃs I Bridge spanning the Douro River. Exploring this area is one of the best things to do in Porto, and a great way to start off your journey.
Taste Porto's World-Famous Port Wine
If there’s one thing that Porto is famous for besides its atmosphere, it is most definitely the city’s port wine. Consider visiting one of the many cellars during your stay in Porto. To get the best experience, cross the Dom LuÃs I Bridge into the Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood, where you'll find famous wine cellars like Graham's, Sandeman, and Taylor's. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and production of port wine, and, of course, sample some of this sweet elixir. Some cellars also offer breathtaking views of Porto's skyline, making it a perfect spot for photos.
Enjoy a River Cruise
One thing you absolutely cannot miss while visiting Porto is taking a relaxing river cruise on the Douro. These boat trips offer fantastic views of the city's skyline and its many bridges, including the massive Dom LuÃs I Bridge. Sunset cruises are particularly enchanting, with the city bathed in a warm, golden glow. Consider this one of the best things to do in Porto to help you see the city in a new perspective.
Admire Porto's Street Art
Art and architecture are more than just accents to Porto’s vibrance, they are necessary components. Specifically, Porto is a city that boasts streets filled with vibrant, thought-provoking street art. Take a street art tour or simply wander through the neighborhoods of Cedofeita and Bonfim to uncover colorful murals and graffiti that showcase the city's artistic spirit. This is one of the best things to do in Porto for art-lovers.
Shop at the Mercado do Bolhão
Head to the Mercado do Bolhão for a genuine taste of Porto's local life! Mercado do Bolhão is a bustling market full of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies. You’ll also want to check out the various souvenirs, so you can take a bit of Porto home with you.
Relax in the Gardens of Palácio de Cristal
Need a break from the hectic city streets? Head out to the Palácio de Cristal to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the gardens. This lush park offers stunning views of the Douro River, dotted with peacocks and exotic plants. Whether you want to relax by the pristine lake, inhale the beauty of the Crystal Palace, or take a nice stroll through the gardens, there’s plenty of options to help you restore your mind and body. Definitely one of the best things to do in Porto if you find yourself needing to unwind out in nature.
Visit the Lively Neighborhood of Foz do Douro
Porto can prove to be quite overwhelming at times (in a good way, that is). With all the incredible sights to see, food and wine to taste, and people to meet, there are boundless adventures waiting for you. However, what some people don’t realize is that Porto actually has a very nice laid-back scene. To experience this, head to Foz do Douro. Known for its beautiful promenade, stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and upscale restaurants, this neighborhood is the perfect place to take things slow. Reserve yourself a seat at one of the local restaurants and enjoy a flavorful dinner while watching the sunset over the coastline.
Catch a Ride at the São Bento Train Station
The public transportation systems in Portugal are exceptional and remarkable. From trains to trams, visitors have plenty of options to travel through the city while taking in the incredible views. São Bento Train Station is one of the main train stations in Porto, and for good reasons. Take a ride to your next destination on the train, and you’ll see why. If you don’t plan to take a ride anywhere, you can still admire the intricate blue and white ceramic azulejo tiles.
Get Lost in Majestic Livraria Lello
Avid readers, book worms, history lovers, poets, and other literary enthusiasts will for sure appreciate this next best thing to do in Porto. Just a few miles north of the Douro River is the stunning Livravia Lello. Considered to be one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, this neo-Gothic library is a sight for sore eyes. Consisting of stained glass ceilings, intricate wooden carvings, and of course, hundreds of books for sale, Livraria Lello is a must-visit place in Porto.
Sample Francesinha
Porto is home to not only sweet local wine, but some very tasty delicacies. One of those is Francesinha, a hearty sandwich made with layers of cured meats, sausage, and steak, all smothered in a rich tomato and beer sauce and topped with a gooey layer of cheese. You can find Francesinha at almost any local restaurant in Porto. Pair it with some of Porto’s other delightful foods to enjoy a little self-guided food tour.
Soak in the Sun at Praia da Luz
Just a short tram ride from the city center lies Praia da Luz, a serene beach that offers a different experience than that of Porto’s city streets. Lounge on the sandy shores, swim in the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean, or sip on a refreshing drink at one of the beachfront cafes.
Visit the Clerigos Tower and Church
Dress in optimal workout gear, then climb the 225 steps of the Clerigos Tower for panoramic views of Porto's cityscape. This iconic Baroque bell tower is part of the Clerigos Church complex, and it offers a unique vantage point to the city's beauty. To experience another one of the best things to do in Porto, don't forget to explore the church itself, known for its ornate interior and peaceful ambiance.
Discover Porto's Contemporary Art Scene
Porto boasts both a historical side as well as a thriving contemporary art scene. The combination makes Porto a unique blend of past and current day. Visit The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art to gaze at the city’s contemporary artwork.
Indulge in Porto's Best Pastries
In the mood for a sweet treat? Make your way to one of the city's traditional bakeries, and indulge in iconic desserts like pastel de nata or a bola de Berlim. These sweet treats will surely surprise you, as well as give you a quick pick-me-up to continue your adventures in Porto.
The Fado Music Scene
By now, you should be aware that Porto is a city that highly appreciates artwork. You’d be glad to know that artwork in Porto isn’t limited to 2D or 3D works, but also includes a vibrant music culture. Fado, a genre originating in Lisbon, is a quintessential Portuguese experience. Locate a tavern, bar, or other venue that plays Fado, and find yourself lost in the harmonic melodies and soulful lyrics of the music.
