The first time I went to Porto, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Everyone talks about Lisbon, but Porto always feels a bit like its quieter, more authentic sibling.
And honestly? I ended up loving it more. So much that I came back two more times!
There’s something about Porto that just works. The tiled buildings, the views over the Douro River, the slightly rough-around-the-edges vibe… it feels real, not polished for tourists. I spent my days wandering up and down the hills, stopping for wine more often than I probably should have, and just taking it all in.
Porto is also one of the best cities in Portugal for food, from traditional dishes like francesinha to simple pastries like pastéis de nata.
If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find that there are plenty of things to do in Porto. In this guide, I’ve put together all my favorite experiences to help you plan your time in the city. If you’re planning a broader trip, check out my full guide to the best things to do in Portugal to help you map out your itinerary.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, this Porto travel guide covers the best things to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your trip.
Table of Contents
What Makes Porto Special
Porto isn’t a city that tries too hard to impress you, and that’s exactly why it works.
Compared to Lisbon, it feels a bit more local and less crowded, with a slower pace and a slightly gritty charm that makes it stand out. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it doesn’t feel like an open-air museum. People live here, hang their laundry out the windows, and gather in the squares at sunset.
It’s also one of the best places in Europe for wine lovers. Not just because of the famous Port wine, but because of how easy it is to explore the nearby Douro Valley, one of the most beautiful wine regions I’ve ever visited.
If you like cities that feel authentic, a little chaotic, and full of character, you’re going to love Porto.
Best Things to Do in Porto
If it’s your first time in the city, these are a few experiences you really shouldn’t miss:
- Walk along the Ribeira waterfront at sunset
- Cross Dom Luís I Bridge for the best views
- Visit Livraria Lello (book ahead, it gets busy!)
- Do a wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
- Take a day trip to the Douro Valley
And now, let’s get into all the details.
Hunt for the Best Azulejos
One of the first things I noticed when I arrived in Porto was how many buildings are covered in azulejos. You’ll see them everywhere, from churches to train stations, and at some point you’ll probably catch yourself stopping every few minutes to take photos.
These blue and white ceramic tiles aren’t just decorative. Many of them tell stories, from historical events to religious scenes, and once you start paying attention, you realize each facade is completely different.
If you enjoy photography or just like wandering without a strict plan, this is one of the most fun things to do in Porto. I spent a good part of my first day just walking around looking for the most beautiful ones.
If you want to be more intentional about it, I’ve put together a full guide on where to find the best azulejos in Porto, but these are a few you shouldn’t miss:
Igreja do Carmo is probably the most famous one, with a massive facade entirely covered in tiles. It’s right in the center, so you’ll likely pass by it anyway.
Igreja do Santo Ildefonso is another standout, with over 10,000 tiles covering the exterior. It’s one of those places that looks even better in person than in photos.
Capela das Almas might be my favorite. The whole building is covered in tiles, and it’s easily one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
Insider tip: Go early in the morning if you want photos without crowds. These spots get busy pretty quickly.
Take a Day Trip to the Douro Valley
If you have the time, this is the one thing I’d tell you not to skip.
The Douro Valley is about two hours from Porto, and it’s one of the most beautiful wine regions I’ve ever visited. Think rolling hills covered in vineyards, winding roads, and viewpoints that make you stop every five minutes.
I wasn’t sure what to expect the first time I went, but it ended up being one of my favorite experiences in Portugal. It’s not just about the wine (although it’s very good), it’s the whole landscape that makes it special.
You can visit the Douro Valley on your own on a day trip, but it does take a bit of planning. Getting around between wineries isn’t always straightforward, and unless someone stays sober, driving isn’t the best idea either.
That’s why most people choose to join a tour, especially if it’s your first time. It makes everything easier, and you get to actually relax and enjoy the experience.
If you’re considering it, these are two really good options:
➤ Douro Valley Tour with Boat Cruise, Wine Tasting & Lunch – This is a full-day experience that includes visits to two wineries, tastings, a traditional lunch, and a scenic boat ride on the river. It’s a great all-in-one option if you want everything organized for you. ➥ Check availability here
➤ Douro Valley Small Group Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch – A slightly more intimate option with smaller groups, multiple tastings, and a stop in Pinhão. It’s a good choice if you prefer a quieter experience. ➥ Check availability here
Insider tip: If you’re visiting in summer, book a few days in advance. These tours sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
Walk Down the Cais da Ribeira Waterfront
This is probably the most iconic area in Porto, and one you’ll end up coming back to more than once.
The riverside district known as Cais da Ribeira is a maze of narrow streets, colorful houses, and little squares where people gather in the late afternoon. It feels lively without being overwhelming, and it’s one of those places where you’ll naturally slow down and just walk around without a plan.
You’ll definitely see plenty of tourists here, but it still manages to feel authentic, especially if you wander just a couple of streets away from the main promenade.
One of the highlights is the Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro River. It’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, and you’ll see it from pretty much everywhere along the waterfront.
Take your time walking along the promenade, enjoy the views, and don’t rush it. This is one of those places where the atmosphere is just as important as the sights.
Insider tip: Come here around sunset. The light over the river and the colorful buildings is honestly one of the best in the city.
Visit the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
Sé do Porto is one of those places you’ll likely walk past without planning to, but it’s absolutely worth stepping inside.
The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most important landmarks in the city. What makes it interesting is the mix of styles, from its Romanesque exterior to the Gothic and Baroque elements you’ll find inside.
Over the centuries, it went through several renovations, which explains the different architectural influences. One of the highlights is the cloister, which is covered in beautiful azulejos and, in my opinion, one of the most underrated spots in the city.
By now you’ve probably noticed how central azulejos are to Porto. This is definitely one of the best places to see them in a quieter setting compared to the more famous facades around the city.
Sé do Porto Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 6.30 PM
Insider tip: Try to come earlier in the day. It’s much quieter, and you’ll enjoy the cloister without crowds.
See a Live Fado Show
Fado is a traditional music style that originated in Lisbon in the 19th century, and it’s such an important part of Portuguese culture that it’s been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Fado shows usually feature one or two singers accompanied by a guitar, and the music is known for its melancholic tone and emotional lyrics. Even if you don’t understand the words, you’ll still feel it.
I wasn’t sure what to expect the first time I went, but it ended up being a surprisingly powerful experience. It’s a nice way to slow down for an hour and experience a different side of Porto.
➤ This Live Fado Show with Glass of Port Wine is a great option if you want something simple and well-organized. The setting is intimate, and having a glass of port while listening to the music makes the whole experience even better. ➥ Check availability here
Insider tip: Smaller venues tend to offer a much better experience than large, touristy ones.
Enjoy a Port Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
Porto is, of course, famous for Port wine, so doing a tasting while you’re in town is one of those experiences that just makes sense.
Even though Port wine is produced in the Douro Valley, it’s traditionally aged and bottled in Porto, which is why Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river, is packed with historic wine cellars you can visit.
It’s actually a really nice area to explore, and an easy one to combine with a walk around Ribeira or across Dom Luís I Bridge. Between the cellars, river views, and tastings, it makes for a very enjoyable afternoon.
Calém is one of the best-known wine cellars in Gaia, and a great option if you want a classic first experience. The visit includes access to its interactive museum as well as the historic cellars, which helps put everything into context before the tasting.
➤ The Calem Cellar Tour, Interactive Museum & Wine Tasting allows you to access the popular winery and enjoy a guided visit of its cellars, along with entrance to the interactive museum, and a delicious wine-tasting session led by an expert guide. ➥ Check availability here
Graham’s Port Lodge is another excellent choice, especially if you want something that feels a bit more traditional. It’s one of the most respected names in Port wine, and the setting is beautiful as well. Visits here are by appointment only, so it’s worth booking in advance, especially in high season.
➤ The Graham’s Port Lodge Tour & Vintage Room Wine Tasting is a fabulous option to visit the winery. You’ll be met by a wine connoisseur who will take you around the cellars and explain the production process of Port wine, before leading you into the Vintage Room for wine tasting. ➥ Check availability here
Sandeman Cellars, Ferreira Cellars, and Espaço Porto Cruz are also very popular and worth looking into if you want to compare a few options.
➤ If you’d rather visit several cellars with a guide, the Port Wine Lodges Tour Including 7 Port Wine Tastings is a great pick. You’ll learn more about the history and production of Port wine while tasting different styles along the way. ➥ Check availability here
Climb the Clérigos Tower
Clerigos Tower is the tallest bell tower in all of Portugal, and it’s situated in downtown Porto. Standing 249 feet (76 meters) tall, the views of Porto from the top are unparalleled, as it overlooks the sea of terracotta rooftops and the Douro River. It takes 200 steps to get there, but they’re worth it!
Torre dos Clerigos is actually part of a complex, constructed in the early 1700s and also featuring the House of the Brotherhood, where the clerics lived back in the day and which has been turned into an informative museum.
Clerigos Tower Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Clerigos Tower Entrance Fee: €10 – Get your ticket here
Walk Across Dom Luís I Bridge
Dom Luís I Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto. This metal, double-deck arch bridge was designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, and inaugurated in 1886, connecting Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro River.
The bridge was the longest of its type in the world at the time of its construction, possibly one of the reasons it became a beloved symbol of the city right from the start.
Walking across the bridge, on either of its levels, is a beautiful experience as it offers beautiful views of the Douro River and the city, and a pleasant stroll that will take you to Vila Nova de Gaia, where all the Port wineries are located.
Also bustling with restaurants, cafés, and shops, it’s one of the prettiest places to visit in Porto.
Visit the Palacio da Bolsa
Palacio da Bolsa literally translates into Stock Exchange Palace, but it’s not nearly as boring as its name makes it sound.
The historic building, erected in the 1800s by the Porto Commercial Association, features a beautiful Neoclassical style and the most striking interiors, to the point that it’s the building where distinguished guests to the city are welcomed.
Situated in Porto’s UNESCO-listed historical center, Palacio da Bolsa is characterized by its impressive glass dome, ceiling frescoes, and thematic chambers that include a Golden and an Arab room decorated in Moorish revival style, and the striking Pátio das Nações (Hall of Nations).
Architecture buffs can’t leave Porto without a visit to Palácio da Bolsa, and might even enjoy a guided tour of the building to better grasp the history and reasons behind its design, as well as interesting facts about its distinguished visitors and the role it plays in the city’s economic life.
Palacio da Bolsa Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 6.30 PM.
Palacio da Bolsa Entrance Fee: €14.
Take a Douro River Cruise
Seeing Porto from the water gives you a completely different perspective, and it’s one of the easiest ways to take a break from all the walking.
The Douro River runs right through the city, separating Porto from Vila Nova de Gaia, and a short cruise lets you take in the colorful buildings, the famous bridges, and the riverfront from a much more relaxed point of view.
The most popular option is the classic “Six Bridges Cruise,” which takes you under all the main bridges in Porto. It’s short, easy to fit into your itinerary, and a good introduction to the city.
➤ The Six Bridges Douro River Cruise is a simple and scenic option that lasts about 50 minutes and covers all the main highlights along the river. ➥ Check availability here
If you want something a bit more special, there are also longer cruises that include wine, lunch, or sunset views, which can turn it into more of an experience rather than just a quick activity.
➤ This Douro River Cruise with Wine and Sunset Option is a great choice if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed and atmospheric. ➥ Check availability here
Insider tip: Try to go later in the day if you can. The light over the river is much nicer, and it feels less crowded than midday departures.
Visit WOW – World of Wine
I wasn’t sure what to expect from WOW – World of Wine, but I ended up spending way more time here than I planned. It’s one of those places that’s surprisingly fun and actually really well done.
Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto, WOW is a whole cultural district with multiple interactive museums, all focused on wine, food, and Portuguese traditions.
What makes it especially worth it now is that you can get a single ticket that gives you access to all the experiences, and you have three days to use it, so you don’t have to rush through everything.
➤ The WOW 72H Ticket includes access to all the museums over 72 hours, which makes it a really good value if you’re curious about wine and local culture. ➥ Buy it here
Here’s what you’ll find inside:
- The Wine Experience is the main one and a good place to start. It explains how wine is made, how to taste it properly, and what makes Portuguese wines different. It’s interactive and easy to follow, even if you don’t know much about wine.
- Pink Palace was honestly one of my favorite parts. It’s all about rosé wine, but in a much more playful and immersive way. Expect bold pink rooms, fun installations, and rosé tastings along the way. It’s definitely more lighthearted, but still informative.
- The Chocolate Experience takes you through the history of chocolate, from cacao to modern production, and includes tastings, which is always a plus.
- The Art of Drinking – The Bridge Collection is a collection of drinking vessels from different cultures and time periods. It’s a bit more niche, but still worth a quick visit.
- Porto Region Across The Ages gives you a broader understanding of the city and how it evolved over time.
You don’t have to do everything in one go. I’d pick two or three experiences, take a break, and then come back later or the next day. It makes the whole visit much more enjoyable.
Insider tip: Even if you don’t visit all the museums, it’s worth coming here for a drink. The views over Porto from Gaia are beautiful, especially around sunset.
WOW World of Wine Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 10 AM to 1 AM.
WOW World of Wine Entrance Fee: € 30 for the entrance ticket that includes access to all the experiences over 72 hours.
Check out the beautiful São Bento Station
São Bento is Porto’s train station, but as with pretty much every location in this charming city, São Bento is a worthy attraction all on its own.
The station, inaugurated in 1916, boasts an interior covered in over 20 thousand ceramic tiles that depict the history of Portugal.
This jaw-dropping display of azulejos is a history lesson and a masterpiece all at once. The upper part of the walls is covered in colorful tiles, while the main scenes are shown in the classic white and blue azulejos you’re probably accustomed to by now.
It truly is one of the prettiest things to see in Porto, and I highly recommend a visit here …even if you don’t have a train to catch!
Walk Around the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
The Jardins do Palácio de Cristal botanical gardens are situated atop a bluff, and besides offering beautiful views all around they’re a great destination to get out of the city’s bustle and be a witness of it from above.
The layout of the Jardins is quite original, featuring small terraced gardens with lawns, paths, all sorts of plants, sculptures, and fountains. You may even get to see peacocks roaming around the roses!
There are free-wifi spots around the gardens, a library, and a sports pavilion. The best part? It’s completely free to visit!
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 7 PM.
Find the Best Miradouros in Porto
What’s a visit to a charming city if you don’t admire it from above? Miradouros, which in Portuguese means viewpoints, offer a stunning panorama of the city and the Douro River, with the houses’ terracotta roofs dotting the landscape.
I love checking out the sights from the viewpoints in Porto, and while there are several good miradouros, the ones below are my favorites.
Miradouro da Vitoria ought to be a must on your visit to Porto. From the viewpoint you’ll catch views of the river, the Ribeira, and the impressive Dom Luís I Bridge. It’s also possible to spot the Cathedral and the glass dome of Palácio da Bolsa!
Miradouro do Teleferico features views from the other side of the river. It’s easy to find if you cross Dom Luís I Bridge toward Vila Nova de Gaia: you’ll just have to follow the directions for the Teleferico.
From the platform, you’ll face the iron bridge – possibly one of the best views of it! – and get to see the colorful Cais da Ribeira across the river.
Visit Livraria Lello – The Harry Potter Library
Known as the Harry Potter Library – for more than one reason, which I will explain in a minute – Livraria Lello is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
This Art-Nouveau-style bookshop, inaugurated in 1906, is an architectural wonder, featuring an impressive staircase in the center, intricate carvings on its wooden bookshelves, and a stunning stained glass roof window.
As if that weren’t enough, Livraria Lello has received even more fame thanks to Harry Potter. The library exudes magic, and whether you link it to the famous wizard or to your favorite magical story, you’ll certainly feel you’ve entered a mystical world when stepping foot in it.
But it’s said that this very library inspired J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto for a few years and frequented Lello Bookshop, to write some of Hogwarts’ scenes – maybe even the Witchcrafts School’s library itself!
Livraria Lello Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Livraria Lello Entrance Fee: €15 – Buy your ticket here (the fee is credited against your purchase if you do buy a book).
Eat a Francesinha
Francesinha is Porto’s most traditional food, and you’ll only be excused from having one if you’re a vegetarian. Otherwise, I cannot think of a good reason why you’d skip this delicious – and very typical – meal.
A Francesinha is mainly a sandwich of bread filled with roasted meat, wet-cured ham, and different types of sausage, like linguiça and chipolata.
The sandwich is then covered with melted cheese and a sauce made of beer and tomato, served with french fries on the side.
While you may be able to find Francesinha in other Portuguese cities, Porto is its birthplace and where you’ll get to enjoy the best ones. Did I make you hungry for one? Go to Cafe Santiago, one of the best restaurants in Porto to enjoy a Francesinha.
If you want to try more local specialties, I recommend joining one of the best food tours in Porto, which is a great way to discover the local cuisine.
Walk Around the Mercado do Bolhao
Mercado do Bolhao is a traditional market located in the center of the city. Established in the early 19th century, 200 years later the market continues to sell fresh produce, fish, meat, prepared meals, and flowers every day except Sundays.
Set in a neoclassic building, Mercado do Bolhao is divided into four sectors: the florists can be found chatting together in one area, while the fishmongers and butchers each have their own space within the market, leaving the fourth corner for the greengrocers.
On the first floor there are food stalls selling pre-made meals to eat there or take away, and it features such a bustling, vibrant atmosphere that it’s become an equally popular spot for tourists as it is for locals doing their grocery shopping.
Mercado do Bolhao Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 7 PM.
Check out the Praça da Liberdade Square
Translated as Square of Freedom, Praça da Liberdade is Porto’s most important square and one of the best things to see there. Established in the 1700s, it connects old and modern Porto, being a result of the city’s urbanization movement.
The square has seen many changes around it since its inauguration, and while the buildings that nowadays surround it are hotels, restaurants, and banks, it was originally encircled by palaces and the city’s Medieval walls.
The square, which features a statue of King Peter IV in the center, is particularly pretty in the evening.
Eat or Make Pasteis de Nata
Pasteis de Nata might just be my favorite Portuguese dessert. These traditional custard tarts originated in a monastery near Lisbon in the 18th century, and they’re one of those things you end up craving again as soon as you leave Portugal.
The recipe, developed by Catholic monks, soon became a favorite all over the country thanks to the pastry’s flaky crust and rich baked custard.
You can often find it with cinnamon sprinkled on top, although the original Pastel de Nata is served straight from the oven, without add-ons.
Manteigaria Fabrica de Pasteis de Nata is one of the best places to get your pastries. A popular Pasteis de Nata factory, the custard tarts are baked throughout the day right in front of you, so whenever you pop by you’ll get a fresh, delicious pastel.
There may be a queue outside, but that only tells you how good they are, so I’d say it’s worth the wait.
Confeitaria do Bolhao is an excellent alternative. Founded in 1896, it offers both sit-down dining and quick bites on the go, besides featuring a very tempting display of cakes and pastries. The pasteis de nata are delicious, but so is everything else, so make sure to stop by if you have a sweet tooth.
➤ A Pastel de Nata Cooking Class with Grandma’s Recipe has to be one of the most fun ways to enjoy the famous pastries. Set in the kitchen of your host’s house, you’ll follow her instructions to make delicious custard tarts, learning the recipe and all the tricks to recreate them at home. You’ll then enjoy your very own pasteis! ➥ Check availability here
Visit Braga & Guimaraes
What to see in Porto when you’ve seen it all? I’d say hit the road and enjoy an excursion. Porto’s convenient location makes it a fantastic base for going on day trips and exploring nearby attractions like Braga and Guimaraes.
These two cities are known for their historical monuments, beautiful architecture, and great history, and are very well worth a visit.
Braga is situated northeast of Porto, and it’s renowned for its religious buildings and heritage, the highlight of the city being its Medieval Cathedral.
Filled with museums and historical landmarks that will keep you entertained for a few hours, Braga is also a foodie destination, featuring a great number of restaurants and bars that serve all types of cuisines.
Guimaraes is even prettier than Braga, boasting a hilltop castle that overlooks the city, a Romanesque Church, and a Palace styled as a French château, all dating from the Medieval Era.
Narrow passageways and hilly streets enable you to wander around the city on foot, checking out its attractions and stopping for a coffee at one of its lovely squares.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the city where Portugal’s first king established his base.
Guimaraes and Braga are quite close to each other, so they make for a great day trip from Porto. I suggest doing it with a tour, to make the most of your day but also skip the hassle of organizing your transfers with a public bus. This below is a great option:
➤ The Braga and Guimaraes Full-Day Trip departs from Porto city center (unless you include hotel pick-up) and takes you through the Minho region, known for its scenic landscapes. You’ll enjoy a guided tour around both cities’ historical centers, with entrance to the monuments included, and have lunch at a local restaurant for an extra fee. ➥ Check availability here
Ride the Historic Tram in Porto
One of Porto’s most iconic sights is its historic tram, which has been crossing the city since 1895. While back in the day the tram was used for the locals’ daily commute, it is now rarely used as a means of transportation but as a tourist attraction.
There are three lines left of the historical streetcar, and you can take a ride in any of them either to get somewhere or just for the experience.
The most-used line is number 1, which connects the Riberia neighborhood with Foz. You’ll hop on the tram in front of Igreja de São Francisco (San Francisco Church) and pay the ticket (€3,50) onboard. The tram can get really (really!) packed, so it’s advised that you go as early as possible.
A less-crowded option is the circular line tram 18, which goes from the Porto Tram Museum to Carmo and back. It takes around 25 minutes and it’s a very enjoyable ride, with stops at numerous city landmarks such as the Electric Car Museum and Igreja do Carmo.
Porto Tram 22 is the last line, which starts at Praça Gomes Teixeira and traverses the city until it arrives at Batalha Square. From there you can either make your way back or take the Guindais funicular to get to the Ribeira district.
Eat at the Most Beautiful McDonald’s in the World
I don’t usually include McDonald’s in blog posts for obvious reasons, but this time I need to make an exception! McDonald’s Imperial is a restored, historical cafe set in the most beautiful building in which fine decor and fast food coexist.
Formerly a celebrated coffee shop, its elements of Art Deco and ornate chandeliers remain, enabling you to order a Big Mac and fries at a counter with stained glass walls.
With a spectacular eagle sculpture at the entrance and a very elegant setting inside, it’s widely considered the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world.
Even if you’re not a regular to the fast food chain, it’s still interesting to pop by to take a look: it’s quite peculiar to see people digging their teeth into Quarter Pounders in such a fancy location.
McDonald’s Imperial Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 5 AM
Is Porto Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Porto might not be as famous as Lisbon, but that’s part of its charm. It feels more local, a bit rougher around the edges, and much more relaxed.
Between the wine culture, the views over the Douro River, and the mix of historic buildings and everyday life, it’s a city that’s easy to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
If you like destinations that feel authentic rather than polished, Porto is one of those places that really stays with you.
How Many Days in Porto?
How long you should spend in Porto really depends on your travel style, but for most people, 2 to 3 days is the sweet spot.
If you only have 1 day in Porto, you can still see the main highlights like Ribeira, Livraria Lello, and the viewpoints, but it will feel a bit rushed. If you’re short on time, check out my one day in Porto itinerary.
With 2 days, you can explore the city at a more relaxed pace and add experiences like a wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia or a river cruise.
If you have 3 days or more, I highly recommend taking a day trip to the Douro Valley or visiting nearby cities like Braga and Guimarães.
If you’re planning a longer trip, you can easily combine Porto with other destinations. I’ve put together a one week in Portugal itinerary that includes Porto and helps you plan the perfect route.
How To Get Around Porto
The best way to get around Porto is on your two feet. I walked pretty much everywhere, even if the hills can be a bit brutal at times. Besides, walking allows you to take detours and explore other locations of the city that weren’t in your original plan.
However, if your time in Porto is rushed or you don’t feel like walking, you can take advantage of public transportation. These are the best options:
Metro: The metro runs daily from 6 AM to 1 AM, and there are six metro lines that will get you close to pretty much every attraction.
Bus: Buses are very reliable in Porto, and they connect most areas of the city, with bus stops conveniently located close to many landmarks. You’ll pay the fee on board the bus and enjoy the views during the ride.
Trams: While taking the tram is a very enjoyable experience, it’s not the best option to actually get around the city. There are only three tram lines, so you can’t get everywhere with it, and it’s considerably more expensive than the alternatives.
If you’re coming from Lisbon, here’s how to get from Lisbon to Porto.
Insider tip: Porto is very hilly, so wear comfortable shoes. Going downhill is easy, but going back up can be a workout.
Where To Stay in Porto
Choosing where to stay in Porto can make a big difference, especially since the city is quite hilly. I’d recommend staying in or near the historic center if it’s your first time, so you’re within walking distance of most attractions.
Areas like Ribeira, Baixa, and Cedofeita are all great bases depending on your budget and travel style.
LUXURY: Casa da Companhia – This 5-star hotel is very centrally located, and features 2 swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant. The rooms are elegant and equipped with an en-suite bathroom and seating furniture.
MID-RANGE: YOTEL Porto – This smart hotel features rooms with a private bathroom, a workspace, and flat-screen TV, and offers daily breakfast at the restaurant. There’s also a fitness center, a bar, and friendly robots ready to answer questions or deliver your requests.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Mouco Hotel – Boasting a swimming pool, a social terrace, a restaurant & bar, and room service, this 4-star hotel aims to cater to every guest’s need. Rooms are fully-equipped and styled with a musical theme.
ON A BUDGET: Avenue View Rooms – The stylish rooms are very spacious and well-lit, with access to a shared lounge, fully-equipped kitchen, and bathroom with toiletries. The unit has great city views and comes with a washing machine.
