What To Do In Porto
Whether you’re checking out Porto’s must see landmarks, diving into its amazing food scene, or taking in the city’s unique history and culture, there’s always something new to discover here.
You’ll never run out of things to do in Porto—it’s just that kind of place!
TL; DR: Best Things To Do In Porto
🚶♂️ For the Explorer: Wander Porto’s hilly streets to discover stunning azulejo tiles at São Bento Station, Capela das Almas, and Igreja do Carmo.
📚 For the Book Lover: Step into the magical Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Pro tip: visit during lunch or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
🍷 For the Foodie: Savour the best of Porto at Mercado do Bolhão, then indulge in a buttery pastel de nata from Manteigaria nearby.
🌅 For the Sunset Chaser: Cross the D. Luís I Bridge to Gaia and watch the sunset from Morro Garden for breathtaking views of Porto’s skyline.
🍇 For the Wine Enthusiast: Explore Gaia’s world-class port wine cellars for tastings and stunning riverside views.
🌊 For the Dreamer: Stroll along Foz do Douro where the Douro River meets the Atlantic, for breathtaking beaches and fresh seafood.
Where is Porto?
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, sits along the Douro River in the country’s north. It’s the city that gave Portugal and port wine their names, with cobblestone streets, stunning azulejo tiles, and a vibrant riverside life. Porto effortlessly captures the heart of everyone who visits.
Places To Visit In Porto
Porto is one of those cities you’re meant to explore on foot. Sure, it’s hilly (your legs might remind you later), but trust me, it’s worth it.
Explore Porto by Foot
Wandering through Porto’s streets lets you admire the city’s beauty and see the iconic azulejos — those stunning blue-and-white Portuguese tiles that create some of the most Instagram worthy spots in Porto. Some of the best spots to admire them include:
- São Bento Station
- The Church of Santo Ildefonso
- Capela das Almas
- Igreja do Carmo
For more leisurely strolling, Rua de Santa Catarina is a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafés, and the must see Majestic Café for a touch of old world glamour.
Rua das Flores, on the other hand, offers a more quaint vibe with its artisan shops and charming eateries, making it a delightful spot for people-watching or an impromptu coffee break.
Visit Livraria Lello
While walking, be sure to stop by Livraria Lello, a true gem in the city and one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its intricate woodwork, grand staircase, and stained-glass ceiling make it feel like stepping into a storybook.
Whether you’re a book lover or not, it’s impossible not to be enchanted by its magical atmosphere.
Tickets to Livraria Lello must be purchased online through the bookstore’s official website. The cheapest ticket is €8 but that amount is deductible when you buy a book.
Good to know: To avoid the large crowds staff say the best time to visit is around lunch or at the end of the day.
Dine at Mercado Do Bolhão
If all that walking has worked up your appetite, you’re in luck— Portuguese people take their food seriously, and it shows.
Make your way to the historic Mercado do Bolhão, a beautifully restored market that’s a true feast for the senses. Here, you’ll find a ton stalls brimming with fresh produce, aromatic herbs, locally cured meats, and the freshest seafood, all waiting to tempt your taste buds.
Some seafood vendors even offer to prepare your selection on the spot, letting you savour the catch of the day right there in the market. It’s definitely a delicious and authentic way to experience Porto’s delicious food culture!
Eat Pastel De Nata (obviously)
No trip to Porto—or Portugal, for that matter—is complete without indulging in the iconic Pastel de Nata, a beloved symbol of Portuguese culture and tradition.
These golden, flaky custard tarts have been winning hearts for centuries, and there’s no better place to savour one than at Manteigaria, conveniently located near Mercado do Bolhão.
Manteigaria brings the art of Pastel de Nata making to new heights. Using only the finest ingredients and time honoured techniques, their tarts are a perfect blend of crisp, buttery pastry and velvety, caramelised custard.
Walk Across Dom Luís I Bridge
Crossing the D. Luís I Bridge isn’t just a way to get from Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia—it’s an experience in itself. This iconic iron masterpiece offers jaw-dropping views of the Douro River, Porto’s terracotta rooftops, and Gaia’s bustling riverside. It’s the perfect spot to snap some unforgettable photos.
Fun Fact: The Dom Luís I Bridge was designed by Teófilo Seyrig, who was a partner of Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same as the Eiffel Tower)
Watch The Sunset Over Porto From Gaia
After crossing the D. Luís I Bridge, you’ll find yourself in Gaia. This area boasts some of the best panoramic views in the city, offering a breathtaking perspective of Porto’s skyline and the iconic bridge itself.
For an unforgettable experience, grab a drink and head to the grassy slopes of Morro Garden. From here, you’ll get a stunning view of Porto’s terracotta rooftops, all bathed in the golden light of the sunset—it’s a sight you won’t soon forget!
Try The Best Port Wine
Of course, no trip to Porto is complete without experiencing the city’s famed port wine.
Porto and its neighbouring city of Gaia are the heart of the country’s port wine production and home to some of the best wine cellars in the world. Many of the top port wine producers have cellars here, and you can visit for guided tours and tastings.
Don’t miss the chance to sip on a glass of port wine while overlooking the stunning view of Porto’s riverside. If you’re new to port, this is the place to learn about its history and indulge in some of the finest varieties.
Written By
Ysabelle is the voice behind Oh My Porto, a blog that peels back the glossy pages of travel brochures to reveal the heartbeat of the city. Through Oh My Porto, Ysabelle shares everything you need to make your time in Portugal unforgettable, from cultural deep dives to travel tips you won’t get anywhere else.