20 Things to do in Porto

Portugal’s second biggest city is world-famous for its iconic Port wine and history-carved centre. From the UNESCO sites to the Fado music shows, here’s everything you need to know about the best things to do in Porto.

Portugal is on practically every traveller’s bucket list; and for good reason. Music, culture, food, art, it’s all here! Although the vibrant streets of Lisbon and the sparkling waters on the Algarve get most of the attention, there are plenty of reasons why you shouldn’t skip a visit to Porto.

jess bergin in porto portugal

Nestled in the north of Portugal, this personality-packed city is steeped deep in a mix of modern meets old.

From the grandiose bookstores and lively outdoor bars to the old-school cinemas and scenic riverfront esplanade, the list of attractions just goes on and on.

Whether it’s your first time in Porto or you’re a seasoned traveller, this guide can help you sift through the lengthy list of things to do in Porto.

Get ready to lock lips with delectable Port wine, marvel at the monuments and cruise down the Douro River.

Oh yeah, and there’s plenty of decadent pastéis de nata, so pack your appetite too…

20 Best Things to do in Porto

Whether you want to spend your holidays in Portugal winding through the cobbled streets, admiring the tiled facades or sipping wine in the rooftop bars, Porto can offer you all of that, and more.

This laidback travel destination is certainly home to no shortage of things to do. From the riverside Ribeira and historical Baixa districts to the iconic Don Luis Bridge, there’s a corner here that’s cut out for you.

In this Porto guide, we cover the top things to do, the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay and more. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top activities:

douro river in porto portugal
  • Watch the sunset from Morro Garden

  • Visit Soares dos Reis National Museum

  • Shop at Mercado do Bolhão

  • See the Boavista District

  • Taste Portuguese Cuisine

  • Wander through Lello’s Bookstore

  • Check out Santa Catarina Shopping Street

  • See the Historic Neighbourhood of Porto

  • Hit the waves on a surfing experience

  • Sample the region’s wine on a day trip to Douro Valley

  • Learn how to bake pastel de nata in a cooking class

  • Feel the breeze on a 6 Bridges River cruise

  • Get off track on an off-road buggy adventure

  • Visit Aveiro, Paiva Walways & Arouca 516 Footbridge

  • Head out on a walking & wine tasting tour

  • Soak up the sun on a sailboat cruise on the Douro River

  • Take a day trip to Braga and Guimarāes

  • Enjoy a Fado Concert experience

  • Get around on a tuk-tuk city tour

  • Explore the Ribeira Neighbourhood

 

20. Watch the Sunset from Morro Garden

Let’s kick off this list with the ultimate summertime hot spot - Morro Garden.

This iconic spot is located close to the upper end of the Don Luís Bridge. This scenic viewpoint offers some of the most spectacular vistas of Porto’s historical heart. Enjoy a stroll from the city centre and on your way, squeeze in a stop at the Serra do Pilar.

After a day of sightseeing, escape the city buzz and make a beeline for Jardim do Morro. This hilltop botanical garden even has a cable car running from the riverside. Usually, this green space gets packed with social travellers around sunset. Grab your mates, bring a local bottle of Port wine and watch the city skyline light up!

If you’re an early riser or want to ditch the crowds, be sure to visit Morro Garden for the sunrise. Locals say it’s a must-see!

19. Visit Soares dos Reis National Museum

If you’re on the hunt for things to do in Porto, you can’t miss the oldest public museum in Portugal, the Soares dos Reis National Museum.

With over 200 years of history, this is undoubtedly the most famous museum in Porto. Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis is home to a huge haul of collections and you’ll find everything from paintings and antiques to ceramics and sculptures.

Among all the 1,300 pieces, don’t miss the magnificent artworks by famed Portuguese sculptor, António Soares dos Reis. Check out the artworks by iconic Portuguese artists like Silva Porto, Henrique Pousão, António Carneiro and Aurelia de Souza.

Soares dos Reis National Museum is located inside of Portugal’s oldest palace, Carrancas Palace. This former residence from the 19th century was once home to well-known public figures like Jean-de-Dieu Soult, Duke Wellington and Pedro I of Brazil.

After visiting the museum, you can head outside into the gardens and get a breath of fresh air.

 
 

18. Shop at Mercado do Bolhão

Most major cities have a market that’s worth checking out, and for Porto, it’s Mercado do Bolhão.

mercado do bolhao in porto portugal

When I travel abroad, I love to head into local markets and see what I can find. Shopping for fresh produce and local delicacies is always so much more fulfilling than just heading to chain stores or big supermarkets.

If you’re travelling to Porto during the warmer months, gather up some Portuguese ingredients and head out for a picnic in Porto.

Whether it’s at the Morro Garden or by the Douro River, this can give you the ultimate local experience. And better yet, it’s budget-friendly.

Shopping at Mercado do Bolhão is one of the best things to do in Porto.

This iconic market first opened back in 1839, but it’s only been in its current location since 1914. So you can just imagine the history that’s hemmed in here. Some of the traders have been running their stalls for over 50 years!

Housed in a beautiful neoclassical-style building in Rua Formosa, you can marvel at the original design on the façade, staircases and remaining tiles.

If you want to mix up your sightseeing, set aside an hour or so to visit this popular spot in Porto.

17. See the Boavista District

Portugal is famous for its culinary scene, myriad monuments and bustling markets. And in the Boavista district, you can get a glimpse of all that, and more.

If you’re looking for things to do in Porto for a day, don’t forget to spend some time in this modern part of the city. This dynamic district is cemented with commercial and residential streets, and the Avenida da Boavista is a must-see.

Add hot spots like the Casa da Música, the Rotunda of Boavista and the Contemporary Art Museum of Serralves to your bucket list. After you’ve ticked off some of the top attractions, go for a stroll in Parque da Cidade or indulge in the flavours at the local restaurants.

If you’re a foodie, head to Praça Bom Sucesso and shop at the stalls in the Bom Sucesso Market. If you ask me, the pint-sized restaurants here have some of the best gourmet specialties and traditional food in Porto.

16. Taste Portuguese Cuisine

While we’re still on the subject of food… This part of Europe is scattered with a drool-worthy gastronomy scene. Whether you want to taste traditional dishes or explore on a food tour, there’s a palatable plate here that’s fit for you.

It’s no secret that eating is one of the best things to do in Porto. I mean, it’s one of the top things to do in any city. New flavours, combinations, colours… Oh, I’m drooling just thinking about it. If you only have one day in Porto, see more for less on this Food and Wine Walking Tour in Porto.

Don’t leave without trying francesinha, a typical dish from Porto. This delectable sandwich is usually made up of steak, ham and different kinds of sausages. To top it off, it’s all covered in melted cheese and drenched in a special spicy sauce. Sometimes, you might even find varieties with an egg or some fries served on the side.

Porto’s food scene usually consists of a lot of fish and meat. Another traditional dish is the ‘tripas à moda do Porto’, which is basically a beef stomach and white bean stew.

Expect to find hearty sandwiches, creamy stews and lots of seafood, all of course, served alongside the region’s most famous export, Port wine. One of the best areas to eat out in Porto is the Ribeira district. Otherwise, head out to nearby Matosinhos for some really good seafood.

 
 

15. Wander Livraria Lello (Lello’s Bookstore)

There are many unique things to do in Porto, but if you only have time to do one thing, make sure you stop by this iconic bookstore.

Livraria Lello, also known as Lello’s Bookstore, was opened all the way back in 1906. That’s right, this bookstore in Porto is older than my great-grandmother. Yaowza.

Widely considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, it’s inarguably the most famous. Located in the heart of Porto, Livraria Lello has been running at its original address and is still adorned with its striking features.

From the carved wood and stained glass ceiling to the winding staircase and neo-gothic facade, it’s easy to feel like you’re in a movie scene here. In fact, this is the place where J.K. Rowling got inspired to write Harry Potter! Whether you’re a fan of books or not, this bookstore in Porto is well worth visiting.

 
 

14. Santa Catarina Shopping Street

Get ready to give your credit card a workout… Porto style! Mix up your sightseeing with some good old-fashioned retail therapy in Santa Catarina.

Rua Santa Catarina is known as the busiest street in the city, and even in the early morning, you’re bound to see it buzzing. This is like the epicentre of the city - it’s home to shopping malls, restaurants, big-name boutiques, local cafes and more.

Scattered with some of the most popular stores in Europe, you’ll find everything from Zara and H&M to Kiko and Calzedonia. Shopping in Porto can be a fun experience at big malls like La Vie and Via Catarina. But be warned - get in early to avoid the crowds.

When you’re shopping in Santa Catarina, don’t forget to swing past the iconic Cafe Majestic. Famed for its art nouveau architecture and beautiful facade, this is one of the most photographed cafes in Porto.

13. See the Historic Neighbourhood of Porto

Porto is well-known for its rich history, so it only makes sense to see some of it while you’re here…

The city’s historical district runs from the downtown area up to Ribeira. The oldest area of the city is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and is made up of Sé, Vitória, São Nicolau and Miragaia.

In this part of the city, you’ll find a fantastic array of attractions, like the Sé Cathedral, the Clérigos Tower, Bolsa Palace, San Francisco Church and San Bento Station. The list goes on and on, making it easy to tick off the top things to do in Porto, Portugal.

If you want to take a deeper dive, learn about the history of the city at Casa do Infante. This museum offers a comprehensive overview of Porto’s evolution.

 
 

12. Go on a Surfing Experience

If you’re spending 3 days in Porto, ditch the big city buzz for some time on the coast!

Hit the waves with a surfing experience on a day trip from Porto to Matosinhos. On this top-rated activity, you can take a surfing lesson with a certified surf instructor. Whether you’re a beginner or just keen to jump in, this activity can be a fun way to mix up your holidays in Portugal.

Your hands-on experience has everything included, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. With high-quality equipment, you’ll be taught the techniques on the sand before hitting the waves. If you’re keen to catch a fresh perspective on Matosinhos' stunning coastline, this activity in Porto is a top choice.

 
 

11. Day Trip to Douro Valley

douro valley day trip in portugal

Sample the region’s decadent wine scene on a day trip to Douro Valley.

Lapped with lyrical landscapes, verdant vineyards and a rolling river, this idyllic spot will have you feeling like you’re worlds away from Porto.

The Douro River is surrounded by rich landscapes, and there’s really no better way to soak it all in…

Oh yeah, and did I mention that it’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed? Whether you want to set your own schedule on a road trip or jump aboard a guided tour, you can’t go wrong in this part of Portugal.

Wine tasting in the Douro Valley is one of the most unique things to do in Porto.

On this day tour from Porto, you can combine the natural beauty, rich history and gourmet gastronomy scene into one experience.

The tour in Douro Valley takes you to two of the most emblematic places in the Douro.

You’ll get the chance to learn about the wine-making process as you enjoy some local wine tastings.

To top it all off, you’ll even get to board a boat on the Douro River, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding scenery.

 
 

10. Cook Pastel de Nata in a Cooking Class

It’s no secret that eating out is one of the best things to do in Porto. So why not learn how to cook Portugal’s most famous sweet treat?

Master the art of traditional Portuguese cooking in a fun-filled cooking class. Learn how to bake pastel de nata, a delectable egg custard tart pastry, in a local home in Porto.

Imagine getting together with some fellow travellers and cooking up a storm. Now that’ll make memories to last a lifetime… You’ll follow an authentic recipe in the kitchen and enjoy your experience with some refreshing drinks. Be sure to pack your appetite, because this experience will serve you up the freshest batch of pasteis de nata you’ve ever had. I’m drooling just thinking about it.

 
 

9. Take a Cruise on the Douro River

Feel the breeze on a 6 Bridges River cruise! This unique activity will put the cherry on top of your holidays in Portugal.

Jump aboard a boat and discover the delights of this city. As the only river in Europe with six bridges, you’ll navigate through hot spots like the historic centre, Vila Nova de Gaia and Douro River.

You’ll embark on your journey on the original boats used for transporting Port Wine barrels from the Douro Region. Sounds pretty epic, right? On your cruise, you’ll enjoy plenty of panoramic scenery and tick UNESCO World Heritage Sites off your bucket list.

The boat cruise takes you upstream to Freixo, before heading back downstream towards the mouth of the Douro River. If you’re looking to catch a unique perspective on the breathtaking landscapes, you can’t go wrong with this tour. Plus, you’ll learn a little bit about the history of the six bridges that join Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto.

 
 

8. Explore Porto on a Buggy Adventure

If you’re planning a short trip to northern Portugal and are looking for things to do in Porto in a day, this buggy adventure is one of the most popular activities.

Get off the beaten track on an off-road buggy adventure in Porto and explore the rolling mountaintops and natural splendour. Over the span of three hours, you’ll visit sites like the Castro Mozinho Roman Ruins and the character-packed town of Quintandona.

While exploring the Serra do Porto Natural Park, you’ll learn a little bit about Portugal’s diverse history. Of course, there will be plenty of time to snap some cool photos, too! If you’re keen for an adrenaline-filled activity in Porto, add this buggy adventure to your bucket list.

 
 

7. Visit Aveiro and the Arouca 516 Footbridge

Take a day trip from Porto and explore the Aveiro, Paiva Walkways & Arouca 516 Footbridge.

There are many things to do inside the historical centre of Porto, but the surrounding landscape also deserves a spot on your to-do list. You’ll check out the charming Arouca town, cross over the famous Suspension Bridge and embark on a 5km downstream walk on the Paiva Walkways.

Out of all the highlights, the Suspension Bridge definitely stands out. Spanning 516 metres long, the bridge runs across the valley and hangs 175 metres above the Paiva River!

After zig-zagging along the river trail, you’ll indulge in a serving of traditional Portuguese cuisine. Then, close up the day in Costa Nova, a picturesque fishing village that’s well-known for its striped colourful houses. In your time in Aveiro, you’ll discover why the city is known as the ‘Portuguese Venice'‘.

 
 

6. Take a Wine Tasting Tour in Porto

Next up on this list of things to do in Porto - wine tasting! They say that you’ve never really tried a real Port wine until you’ve had it in Porto…

This Portuguese city is famous for Port wine, so why not head out on a walking & wine tasting tour? Discover the rich history behind the city’s world-known wine and learn about distinguishing the different kinds of Port.

On this tour, you’ll head across the river and visit the Port Wine Cellars with a local guide. This wine-tasting tour in Porto takes place in a historic venue and then in two typical wine houses. You’ll even try a green wine paired with a selection of cheeses and smoked meats. Delicious!

Take a deep dive as you learn about the grapes, varieties and wine-making process. You’ll walk away with some tips on how to taste wine, so you can head back home with a little more knowledge up your sleeve. If you’re looking for a unique activity in Porto, a wine tour is a top choice for any kind of weather or occasion.

 
 

5. Sail on a Sunset Cruise

Porto is crowned with wine culture, historical hot spots and an array of adventure activities. In this travel guide, we’ve covered a fair few of those elements. But now, we’re going to brush over one of the most popular things to do in Porto, Portugal - a sunset cruise on the Douro River!

Spice up your sightseeing and soak up the sunshine and spectacular scenery on a sailboat cruise on the Douro River. On this tour, you’ll cruise past the panoply of must-see attractions in Porto.

Snap pics of the Luis I Bridge, check out the riverbanks of the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and enjoy the serene vistas from the Rabelo boats. Whether you want to go with friends, family or a loved one, this cruise in Porto is one of a kind!

 
 

4. Take a Day Trip to Braga and Guimaraes

Take a day trip to Braga and Guimarāes and see the best of the Minho region.

This day tour invites you to two renowned Portuguese cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can step away from the hustle and bustle of historical Porto and discover the far north of Portugal.

Braga is well-known for its religious history and myriad monuments. From the Bom Jesus do Monte complex and the medieval Braga Cathedral to the Archbishop’s Palace and Santa Barbara Garden, the list of things to do will have you on the edge of your seat.

Guimarães is also famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings and endless attractions. This tour takes you to historical hot spots like the 10th-century Guimarães Castle and the Dukes of Bragança Palace. If you’re looking to learn about Portugal’s unique history, this day trip from Porto is a must-see.

 
 

3. See a Fado Music Concert

Portugal is pinned with a panoply of enticing experiences, from the thriving culture and rich history to the colourful gastronomy scene.

There are many things to do in Porto, and a Fado concert experience sits high up on that list. Fado music dates back to the end of the 18th century in the sprawling streets of Lisbon.

It’s known to provoke a heartfelt feeling of longing and it’s typically played to the tune of a viola and guitar. Fado translates to ‘fate’ and the ballads are usually about lost sailors, broken hearts and romance.

Luckily, there are lots of places to hear live fado music in Porto. That being said, the quality, authenticity and type of experience can vary depending on where you go. If you’re a lover of the arts, music and culture, it’s definitely worth seeing a Fado show. Here are a handful of the best places to see Fado in Porto:

  • Fado Maior do Porto

  • Caves Fonseca

  • Casa da Mariquinhas

  • Destino Fado

  • Ideal Clube de Fado

 
 
dom luis bridge in porto portugal

2. See Porto on a Tuktuk Tour

Although getting around on a tuk-tuk city tour may seem a little touristy, it’s a great way to see more in less time.

This tour can help you discover the best of Porto, Matosinhos and Vila Nova de Gaia.

You’ll see sights like the Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto), Ponte de Dom Luis I and Clérigos Church and Tower (Torre & Igreja dos Clérigos).

Plus, you’ll swing past popular tourist attractions like the Palace of the Stock Exchange, The Church of São Francisco (Igreja de São Francisco), Casa da Música and Liberdade Square (Praça da Liberdade).

If you’re looking for things to do in Porto for a day, this tuk-tuk tour can help you see all the city’s highlights.

 
 

1. Explore the Ribeira Neighbourhood

Let’s wind up this Porto guide in one of the city’s most famous districts, riverside Ribeira.

Tucked on the cusp of the Douro River, this neighbourhood in Porto is pinned for its picture-perfect views. Ribeira is the oldest part of Porto and the area is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Scattered with seemingly stacked homes, the soaring cast-iron D. Luis I Bridge and the vibrant Rabelo boats, Ribeira is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of Porto.

Every corner of this neighbourhood is postcard-worthy. So if you only have time to do one thing, don’t miss out on this hot spot. The historic centre of the city and the riverside promenade is the best thing to do in Porto.

Must-see spots include the Igreja de São Francisco, São Francisco Catacombs, Palácio da Bolsa and Clerigos Tower and Church. With so many highlights, you’ll be entertained for hours. To make Ribeira worth the visit, ditch the busy crowds by coming in the early morning or late afternoon.

 

More Things to do in Porto

If you’re on the hunt for more attractions in Porto, add these top spots to your bucket list:

  • Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto), one of the city’s oldest monuments

  • Luís I Bridge (Ponte de Dom Luis I), a famous double-deck metal arch bridge over the River Douro

  • Clérigos Church and Tower (Torre & Igreja dos Clérigos), a Baroque church with a 75-metre-tall bell tower

  • Bolsa Palace (Palacio da Bolsa), a 19th-century UNESCO-listed palace in Porto

  • The Church of São Francisco (Igreja de São Francisco), a UNESCO-listed site in Porto’s city centre

  • Liberdade Square (Praça da Liberdade), the main square in Porto

  • Casa da Música, a concert hall designed by Rem Koolhaas

  • Serralves Museum (Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves), a must-see modern art collection

  • Avenida dos Aliados, the main avenue in Porto

  • Batalha Cinema Centre, a Portuguese cinema and concert venue

  • São Roque Gardens, gardens, viewpoint and a popular hedge maze

  • Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardins do Palacio Cristal), botanical gardens in Porto

  • Galeria da Biodiversidade, located in the heart of historic Porto

  • Virtudes Garden, a garden with beautiful views of Porto city

  • Teatro Nacional São João, a theatre and concert venue in Porto

 

Portugal Itinerary for 7 & 14 Days

Now that you’ve got the rundown on the best things to do in Porto, it’s time to get planning! Lucky for you, I’ve compiled two full Portugal travel guides. So why not sprinkle a few of these activities into your trip itinerary?

algarve coast in portugal

If you’re wondering how to spend two weeks in Portugal, I’ve got you covered. You can wind through the big cities, visit national parks and enjoy places off the beaten track. This 14-day Portugal Itinerary has got everything you need to know before you go. Here’s a quick breakdown of what we cover in this itinerary:

Day 1 - 2: Porto

Day 3: Duoro Valley

Day 4: Aveiro

Day 5: Coimbra

Day 6: Nazare

Day 7- 9: Lisbon

Day 10 - 11: Sintra

Day 12: Cascais

Day 13 - 14: Algarve Coast

 
 

If you’re on a tighter schedule and are wondering how to spend 1 week in Porto, this next itinerary is the best bet for you.

This 7-Day Portugal Itinerary invites you into all the hilltop-hugging palaces and crashing coastal regions. With the perfect mix of city life and rural escapes, you’ll get the best of both worlds. Here’s an idea of what to expect in this 1-week itinerary:

               Day 1: Porto

                  Day 2: Day Trip to Duoro Valley 

                  Day 3: Lisbon

                  Day 4: Day Trip to Sintra

                  Day 5: Day Trip to Cascais

                  Day 6: Algarve

                  Day 7: Day Trip Around Algarve

 
 

Best Time to Visit Porto

The best time to visit Porto depends on your travel budget, personal style and preferences. Travelling in Portugal offers a wealth of experiences year-round, from boat trips in the summer to Christmas Markets in the winter.

Here’s a breakdown of the weather, what to expect and the things to do in Porto during each season:

Summer

From June to August, you can expect hot temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This is the most popular time to visit Porto and there are plenty of activities and events on offer. The summer season is the best time to dine on the riverfront, take boat trips on the Douro River and enjoy nearby beaches like Matosinhos or Foz do Douro. Considering that it’s the most popular time for tourists, you can expect big crowds and higher prices on accommodation and airfares.

Autumn

From September to November, Porto has mild temperatures and occasional rain. If you’re looking to enjoy the warmer weather without the summertime crowds, aim to visit in mid to late September. During autumn, you can visit the Douro Valley for grape harvesting and wine-tasting tours. There are also a handful of cultural events taking place, like the Port Wine Day celebrations in September.

Winter

From December to February, temperatures in Porto sit around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). This is considered the low season in Portugal and you can expect cheap airfares, accommodations and activities. This is an ideal to visit Porto’s indoor attractions like Livraria Lello (Lello Bookstore) and the São Bento Railway Station. Plus, during December, you can enjoy the holiday festivities and Christmas markets.

Spring

From March to May, you can expect occasional rain and mild temperatures around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This is a great time for sightseeing and exploring Porto’s historic centre. You can also enjoy the colourful flowers and blooming landscapes in the Crystal Palace Gardens. One of the city’s biggest events, the Festa de São João, takes place in late June. During the springtime, you can score more affordable rates on flights and hotels.

 

How to Get Around Porto

Porto has a well-connected public transportation system and making your way around is largely hassle-free. The metro, trams and buses are operated by the Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto.

There are six different metro lines in Porto, A (blue), B (red), C (green), D (yellow), E (purple) and F (orange). And with over 80 stations dotted around the city, seeing the top things to do in Porto couldn’t be easier. The historical centre of Porto is very walkable, but you can also book a tuk-tuk tour if you want to get around quickly.

The closest airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), which is also known as Porto Airport. Located in the city’s northwest, you can easily reach the city centre by jumping on the E (purple) metro line. Otherwise, you could get a shuttle bus or catch a taxi for around €20 to €30.

 

Where to Stay in Porto

So, now you’re up to speed on the best things to do in Porto, Portugal. Next up, let’s figure out where is the best place to stay. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences and travel budget. Here’s a basic breakdown of the top three neighbourhoods in Porto:

Ribeira 

Ribeira is well-known as one of the city’s oldest districts and is set in the beating heart of the Old Town. This area of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are many exciting activities and attractions.

Hang out by the riverside promenade, snap a photo in front of the colourful homes and swing past the iconic Cathedral. Must-see spots include the Rua da Fonte Taurina, Ponte Dom Luis I Bridge and the Praça da Ribeira (Ribeira Square). If you’re wondering where to stay in Porto for nightlife, the Ribeira district is your best bet.

Best Places to Stay in Ribeira:

Cedofeita  

Cedofeita is dotted with traditional architecture, traditional Portuguese restaurants and a range of shopping opportunities.

Strut your stuff down Cedofeita Street, give your credit card a workout in the Rua de Miguel Bombarda and stop for a bite to eat in the trendy cafes. If you're looking for the best places to stay in Porto, Cedofeita is one of the most popular neighbourhoods for couples.

Best Places to Stay in Cedofeita:

Foz do Douro 

Sitting on the foot of the Douro River, Foz do Douro is easily one of the best places to stay in Porto, Portugal.

Spend your trip along the beachside avenue, Avenida do Brasil, explore the flower-filled Pérgola da Foz and get refreshed in Praia do Carneiro or Praia dos Ingleses Beach. This is one of the most tranquil areas in Porto, making it ideal for families and those who are looking to escape the big crowds.

Best Places to Stay in Foz do Douro:

 

FAQs

What can't you miss in Porto?

There are many popular tourist attractions in Porto, from the cathedrals to the live fado shows. If you only have a day to explore, don’t miss the Luís I Bridge, a cruise on the Douro River and a visit to the Torre dos Clérigos and Catedral do Porto.

Is 3 days in Porto enough?

If you want to plan a city break in Porto, 3 days is an ideal time to see some of the top sights and do a day trip. You can spend the first two days in the historic centre of Porto and spend your third day in places like the Douro Valley, Braga or Guimaraes.

How many days is enough to visit Porto?

Although you can see Porto in just 1 to 2 days, it’s best recommended to set aside at least 3 to 4 days in the city. With this itinerary, you can explore at a leisurely pace and also do a day trip from Porto.

What is Porto Portugal famous for?

As Portugal's second-largest city, Porto is world-famous for its Port wine and UNESCO-listed historic city centre. If you’re a history buff or wine connoisseur, you’re going to fall in love with Porto.

Best Things to do in Porto and Beyond!

From the Fado shows and fantastic river cruises to the renowned cathedrals and wine-tasting experiences, there are many things to do in Porto.

Whether you want to get in among the action or off the beaten track, you won’t be bored on your trip to Porto. Before you jet-set off on your holiday, be sure to save this travel guide.

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