I still remember stepping off the train in Porto for the first time. My jaw dropped. This historic city in northwest Portugal completely caught me off guard in the best way possible.
The colorful buildings, the smell of fresh pastries from every corner, the way the Douro River sparkles at sunset, I knew I’d found something special.
I spent a week exploring Porto’s winding streets, tasting port wine, and getting lost in neighborhoods that felt frozen in time.
Now I want to share what I learned with you. This guide covers the attractions I loved, the restaurants where I ate way too much, and the activities that made my trip unforgettable.
Find Porto’s Historic Areas
Walking through Porto’s old neighborhoods feels like stepping back in time. These historic spots show you the city’s soul.
Old Town (Ribeira)
I spent hours wandering Ribeira’s cobblestone streets. The colorful buildings lean into each other, laundry hangs from balconies, and cats nap everywhere.
The riverside promenade gets crowded, but the Douro River views are worth it. I grabbed a café seat and watched boats drift by. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the tourist rush.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
This hilltop cathedral from the 12th century offers incredible city views. The climb up is steep, but you’ll see across Porto and down to the river.
The Romanesque interior feels peaceful and solemn. I spent 30 minutes exploring the cloisters and enjoying the terrace views.
Torre dos Clérigos
I paid 8 Euros to climb 225 steps up this tower. My legs burned, but the 360-degree views made it worthwhile.
You’ll see terracotta rooftops, the river, and the Atlantic on clear days. Visit at sunrise or sunset to skip the midday crowds and catch the golden light.
Iconic Landmarks
Porto has landmarks you’ve seen in photos. Visiting them in person hits different.
Dom Luís I Bridge
I walked across this iron bridge 45 meters above the Douro River. The height made my stomach flip, but the views were incredible.
You’ll see both sides of Porto, colorful Ribeira buildings, and boats below. The walk takes 10 minutes and costs nothing. Go late afternoon when the sun makes the river glow.
Livraria Lello
This bookstore looks like something from Harry Potter. The neo-Gothic interior has a red spiral staircase curving through the center.
Entry costs around 5 Euros, which goes toward a book purchase. It gets packed with tourists, so arrive right when it opens. The stained glass ceiling and carved wood make it feel like a cathedral.
Food and Markets
Porto’s food scene is where I spent most of my money, and I have zero regrets.
Mercado Bolhão & Time Out Market
Mercado Bolhão is Porto’s main market. I walked through stalls piled with fresh fish, cheese, and produce. The vendors called out prices and offered samples.
Time Out Market has a more modern vibe. You’ll find food stalls from local restaurants all under one roof. I ate grilled octopus and sipped wine while people-watching.
Street Food & Pastries
Roasted chestnuts from street vendors smell amazing on cold days. I grabbed a paper cone for a couple euros and munched while walking.
Pastel de nata is the pastry you need to try. These custard tarts cost around 1 Euro and taste best when they’re still warm. I ate at least one every day.
Bacalhau
Bacalhau is dried and salted codfish. Portuguese people have hundreds of ways to cook it. I tried bacalhau à brás, which mixes the fish with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Wine Experiences
Porto and wine go together like bread and butter. You can’t visit without tasting port.
Vila Nova de Gaia Wine Cellars
These cellars sit across the river from Porto’s old town. I took a tour at one of the historic port houses and learned how they age the wine in massive oak barrels.
The tasting at the end included three different ports. Tours cost between 10-15 Euros. Book ahead during summer because spots fill up fast.
Douro Valley Wine Tours
I took a day trip to Douro Valley, about 90 minutes from Porto. The terraced vineyards cascade down hillsides to the river below.
Most tours include winery visits, tastings, and lunch. I paid around 80 Euros for a full-day tour. The scenery alone made it worthwhile, and the wine was excellent.
Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Porto has green spaces where you can escape the crowds and catch your breath.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
These botanical gardens surprised me. Peacocks roam the paths, and you’ll find different garden sections with roses, herbs, and exotic plants.
The best part? River views from the upper terraces. I sat on a bench and watched the sun dip below the horizon. Entry is free.
River Walks & Parks
I walked along the Douro River almost every evening. The path stretches for miles, and you’ll pass locals jogging, families with strollers, and street musicians.
The parks along the river have benches where you can sit and watch boats go by. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a busy day.
Beaches
Porto sits near the Atlantic coast. The beaches are a short trip from the city center.
Praia do Carneiro & Praia de Matosinhos
Praia do Carneiro is smaller and less crowded. I went on a weekday and had plenty of space to spread out my towel.
Praia de Matosinhos is bigger and popular with surfers. The waves get decent here. After the beach, I ate fresh grilled fish at one of the seafood restaurants lining the shore.
Transport Options
You can walk to some beaches if you don’t mind a 30-40 minute stroll. Otherwise, buses and the metro run regularly.
A metro ticket costs less than 2 Euros. The whole beach day, including transport, cost me under 10 Euros.
Evening & Entertainment
Porto comes alive at night in a different way than other European cities. It feels more laid-back and genuine.
Fado Music
Fado is traditional Portuguese music that hits you right in the chest. The songs are melancholic and raw.
I went to a small fado house in the old town. Tickets cost 15-20 Euros and usually include a drink. The performers poured their hearts out, and even though I didn’t understand all the Portuguese lyrics, I felt every word.
Sunset Views
The best free activity in Porto? Watching the sunset from Dom Luís I Bridge or along the riverfront.
I grabbed a bottle of wine from a local shop, found a spot by the water, and watched the sky turn pink and orange. The city lights started twinkling as darkness fell. It’s the kind of moment that makes you grateful you decided to travel.
Travel Tips
- Getting around Porto is easy: I walked most places since the city center is compact. Historic trams cost a few euros for steep hills. Cable cars run from the riverside to the bridge top. Buses cover areas further out when your feet need rest.
- Visit during spring or fall: I went in October and had fewer crowds than summer. The weather was still warm for beaches, but I didn’t elbow through tourists everywhere. Winter works too if you handle cooler temps and rain.
- Porto won’t break your bank: I ate street food and pastries for cheap lunches. Gardens and river walks cost nothing. Local markets have fresh food for way less than restaurants.
- Buy a rechargeable Andante card: I loaded mine with 10 euros and used it all week on metros, buses, and trams. It beats buying individual tickets every time.
- Learn a few Portuguese phrases: Most tourist areas have English speakers, but locals loved when I said “obrigado” or “bom dia.” It led to friendlier chats and better recommendations.
Conclusion
Porto gave me everything I wanted in a European city and then some.
The history, the food, the views along the Douro River, it all came together perfectly. I stayed for five days and still felt like I left things unexplored.
Give yourself at least three days here. That’s enough time to hit the main spots without rushing. But honestly? The best moments happened when I got lost in random neighborhoods, stopped for another pastel de nata, or sat by the river watching the light change.
Porto isn’t just a place to check off your list. It’s a city that asks you to slow down and soak it all in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need to see Porto?
I recommend at least three days in Porto. This gives you time to see the main attractions, eat local food, and maybe take a day trip to Douro Valley.
Is Porto expensive to visit?
Porto is more affordable than Lisbon or other major European cities. I spent around 50-70 euros per day. Street food and free parks help keep costs down.
What’s the best way to get around Porto?
Walking works best since most attractions are close together. For longer distances, buy an Andante card for metros, buses, and trams.
When is the best time to visit Porto?
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer great weather with fewer crowds. I visited in October and loved it. Winter is quieter but rainier.
Do I need to speak Portuguese in Porto?
Most tourist areas have English speakers, so you’ll be fine. Locals appreciated when I tried basic phrases like “obrigado” (thank you) though.