10 Things To Do In Porto, Portugal
Situated along the picturesque Douro River, Porto is a rich historical city known for its stunning architecture, amazing food, and warm hospitality. The city is filled with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings decorated with intricate tiles. Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and draws visitors e interested in the culture and delicious cuisine. It’s one of the best cities for foodies! There are so many great things to do in Porto. Here are 10 things to add to your Porto travel guide.
10 Things To Do In Porto
Explore Ribeira District
Exploring the Ribeira District in Porto is like stepping into a postcard of Portuguese charm and history. Nestled along the Douro River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with colorful buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and lively waterfront promenades. There are alleyways, quaint cafes, and family-owned restaurants. Be sure to grab a glass of Port wine at a riverfront restaurant and experience a sunset here too! The district comes alive with beautiful colors hitting the historic landmarks.
Visit Livraria Lello
Step into the magical world of Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Admire its neo-gothic architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and iconic staircase that inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Even if you’re not a book-lover, a visit to Livraria Lello is a must. There is so much beauty in the store.
Go Port Wine Tasting
No trip to Porto is complete without sampling its world-famous Port wine. Head to the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia for a tasting tour and learn about the centuries-old tradition of Port wine production.
Climb the Clerigos Tower
For panoramic views of Porto, climb the iconic Clerigos Tower. After ascending its 240 steps, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and the Douro River. It’s definitely a great experience!
See the Dom Luis I Bridge
Spanning the Douro River, the Dom Luis I Bridge is an architectural masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel. Walk across its upper deck for stunning views or take a leisurely cruise beneath the iconic arches.
Wander Through Porto Cathedral
Porto is a city filled with such a rich history. One of the best things to do in Porto is visit Porto Cathedral. It’s one of the city’s oldest and most significant landmarks. Get lost in its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, including the beautiful cloister garden. And head to the rooftop terrace for gorgeous views of Porto and the Douro River.
Spent a Day at Porto's Beaches
When you need a break from sightseeing, head to one of Porto's nearby beaches for some sun, sea, and sand. From the golden shores of Matosinhos to the rugged coastline of Foz do Douro, the Porto beaches are beautiful. There are plenty of beachfront cafes and bars to sit at while enjoying the beautiful sunshine and sunsets.
Relax at Jardins do Palacio de Cristal
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Jardins do Palacio de Cristal. Located on a hill overlooking the Douro River, these beautiful gardens offer a peaceful retreat with scenic viewpoints, landscaped pathways, and lakes. You can spend a day sitting along the lake or on benches soaking in Porto’s beautiful skyline and river.
Eat Portuguese Cuisine
One of the best things to do in Porto is…eat! There are so many traditional dishes to try like bacalhau (salted cod), francesinha (a sandwich smothered in cheese and spicy sauce), and pastéis de nata (Portugual’s famous custard tart). There are plenty of markets to wander through like Mercado do Bolhão. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of Vinho Verde!
Take a Boat Cruise on the Douro River
Experience Porto from a different perspective with a boat cruise along the Douro River. Admire the city's skyline, historic bridges, and terraced vineyards as you glide through the tranquil waters. Most cruises offer local wines and traditional Portuguese cuisine too!
