Where to Stay in Porto: A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in Porto

Planning to move to Portugal with your family? The northern gem of the country, Porto, is bursting with attitude and has become the city of the moment. There are many different places in the city, each with its own unique character. However, where are the best neighborhoods in Porto for families?

Filled with charm and unique history, Porto is one of the oldest European cities that you can stroll around with ease. The city overlooks six bridges – including the famous Maria Pia bridge, designed by Don Gustave Eiffel – spanning the Douro River. On the other side, you can make out the 300-year-old port wine houses lighting up the river in the evenings.

A city steeped in historical significance and port wine lodges, Porto pushes the boundaries of modernity, with trendy gin bars and bistros popping up across the city. Also, a short distance from the city, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean near the famous neighborhood of Foz do Douro and other neighborhoods in Porto.

In this article, we’ll provide you with an overview of the best neighborhoods in Porto for families. It’s essential to know which neighborhood is best suited to your needs to make an informed decision.

Porto Neighborhoods Map

A Porto neighborhood map can help to visualize and understand how the neighborhoods are divided into municipalities. When deciding on the best places to stay in Porto Portugal, it will help to refer to this Porto neighborhoods map as your guide.

As prices for real estate in Porto vary depending on the location, you can also use this map of Porto neighborhoods to see where you might prefer to purchase property, whether that be on the western north coast of Portugal, with the famous Douro River running through it, or one of the more central areas.

Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in Porto for Families

From the city center to downtown Porto, the picturesque cobblestone streets of Portugal’s second largest city offer historic architecture, charming riverside restaurants, and an art district close at hand, creating a peaceful, yet vibrant city. The northern Portuguese local people are also known to be some of the friendliest in the country. They are very welcoming and always happy to help anyone visiting Porto find their way around.

Porto’s neighborhoods offer an experience for every member of the family. In Cedofeita, within easy walking distance of São Bento Railway Station, you will find Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. The iconic Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto, is a great neighborhood for a romantic getaway where parents can enjoy boutique hotels and port wine lodges.

Porto’s city center is also home to incredible markets and shopping streets. These main attractions include Rua de Santa Catarina, one of the most famous streets in Porto, Bom Sucesso Market (Mercado Bom Sucesso), and the vibrant Rua Miguel de Bombarda street, which features some of the best art galleries in downtown Porto’s art district.

You will also find the historic center of Porto, which is an urban landscape with a 2,000-year history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the hills overlooking the mouth of the Douro River. All these main attractions reflect the authenticity of the local lifestyle in Porto.

Here, we provide an overview of some of the best neighborhoods in Porto for travelers and families, whether you are looking for a central location or to buy real estate in Porto a little further out. You can also visit our guide to the best neighborhoods in Portugal to discover more about the best places to live in Portugal as an expat.

1. Foz do Douro

Foz do Douro is Porto’s westernmost neighborhood, where the River Douro meets the ocean. Here, you have endless views of the Atlantic from waterfront restaurants and from the stunning properties that line the coast, with the famous Felgueiras lighthouse welcoming boats back to shore. The remains of the famed Fortress São João Baptista da Foz provide history lovers with the chance to look back to the 16th Century.

Why live in Foz do Douro?

Once a small fishing village that was transferred to cater for the upper class, Foz do Douro is now home to all sorts of people, most of whom consider it the best neighborhood to stay in Porto. Many houses along the shore provide stunning sea views and the neighborhood offers all the amenities that you need.

Home to some of the best seafood in the country, and with a neoclassical Pérgola da Foz promenade to wander up and down, Foz is a treat for locals and expats alike. If you are looking for beach properties, this is a good location to consider.

For families, some of the best schools can be found in Foz do Douro, such as the Oporto British school. This area is particularly appealing, as it has all the amenities that you could need. Just 20 minutes from Porto’s city center, Foz do Douro could be a good port of call for families and professionals. The beaches provide children with a ready-made play area, where they can while away the long summer days together. You can also rent bikes for your family to cruise along the coast with views of the glimmering sea.

Property prices in Foz do Douro

With an average property price per square meter in Foz do Douro of €5,678, the neighborhood is well suited to upscale investors and home buyers looking for spacious seaside properties. Property in this area is also a favorite among retirees looking to live in a sophisticated area by the sea.

Property types in Foz do Douro

As a more upscale neighborhood, in Foz do Douro you’ll find luxury apartments located in modern buildings with ocean views; upscale villas that often feature private gardens, swimming pools, and spacious interiors; historic townhouses which have been renovated to blend historic charm with modern comforts; and oceanfront properties right along the coastline that offer stunning sea views, with direct access to beaches and the promenade.

2. Baixa

Baixa, the given term for Porto’s historic central downtown area encompassing a few smaller areas, is known for its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and neoclassical architecture. The lively area is a historical and cultural hub with some of Porto’s best-known landmarks.

For one of the best views of the city, walk to the top of the nearby 18th-century Torre dos Clérigos (Clergy). Visit the Porto Romanesque Cathedral and ascend the 240 steps to the top of the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking city views. If you are heading out of the city and want to see one of Portugal’s most picturesque locations, don’t miss a chance to visit the São Bento train station with the trains whistling in and out, decorated with traditional Portuguese glazed tiles.

Why live in Baixa?

Living in Baixa offers a vibrant urban lifestyle in the heart of the city, surrounded by stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and excellent amenities. Living in the historic central downtown area means you’re steps away from iconic landmarks, charming cafes, restaurants, and local markets. Its central location provides convenient access to public transport, making it easy to commute or explore other parts of Porto.

If you’re thinking of staying or living in Baixa, there are beautiful hotels and apartment complexes bordering the Avenida dos Aliados, which is a work of art in architecture. This popular area of downtown Porto also serves as a key gathering spot for important occasions like the São João Festival or the New Year’s Eve party.

There are also a lot of lively bars and cafes. Most of them are concentrated along Avenida dos Aliados, particularly Rua Galeria de Paris, which is one of Porto’s greatest nightlife locations. The bustle is dispersed throughout the adjacent streets and squares on weekends. There are also small coffee shops, bookstores, and a range of cafes for every taste and price. The variety of lodging alternatives is equal; you’ll find some of the best luxury hotels and low-cost lodgings available.

Property prices in Baixa

As Porto’s historic center, the average asking price for property in Baixa is €4,665 per square meter.

Property types in Baixa

As a bustling downtown area, properties in Baixa include renovated apartments in historic buildings that have been refurbished while retaining their original architectural charm, with high ceilings, exposed stone walls, and wrought iron balconies. Lofts with open-plan layouts and large windows; and traditional and restored townhouses with modern amenities, are also available. These multi-level homes often feature classic facades and interior details like azulejos (Portuguese tiles).

3. Ribeira

Ribeira, Porto’s charming riverside quarter, offers a glimpse back in time with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old vibrant buildings. Ribeira is a lively neighborhood spread along the Douro River, often buzzing with the energy of locals enjoying traditional Portuguese dishes at tucked-away restaurants or sipping wine by the water.

With its postcard-perfect views of the Dom Luís I Bridge, Ribeira blends Porto’s maritime past with a distinctly local, unpolished charm, and offers a charming lifestyle for all types of expats.

Why live in Ribeira?

Ribeira boasts stunning scenery and historical wonder and is the ideal environment for families with older children and young people.

Bordering downtown Porto, the narrow, cobbled streets offer a lively nightlife, particularly concentrated around Hard Club. Another main attraction in the Ribeira neighborhood is Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto).

Praça da Ribeira Square offers a lovely spot for picnics, and the numerous excellent restaurants provide a chance to immerse yourselves in Portuguese cuisine.

Plus, the proximity to the Douro River opens doors for scenic walks and boat tours, perfect for creating lasting family memories.

Property prices in Ribeira

As part of the historic Porto city center, the average asking price for property in Ribeira is €4,665 per square meter.

Property types in Ribeira

In Ribeira, the property types reflect its rich history and unique charm. The most common property types include restored historic apartments dating back centuries (these often feature traditional architectural elements like exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and original tile work); small studios and lofts to accommodate the compact, narrow streets; multi-story townhouses renovated into single-family homes; and riverside apartments along the Douro River that offer stunning views of the water and Porto’s famous bridges.

4. Miragaia

Miragaia, which once lay beyond the Porto suburbs’ city walls, is located to the west of the historic city center. With its brightly colored homes and winding alleyways, the neighborhood gives the impression of being an expansion of the Ribeira.

A very picturesque part of the city. The colorful houses here were built below the level of the River Douro, where the beach served as a medieval shipyard where boats were built to discover the new world. Nowadays, houses are protected by a large wall and the upper floors are built over arches, giving this area of Porto a unique ambiance.

A former Medieval shipyard, Miragaia served as the center of Porto’s Jewish and Armenian communities. With its labyrinth and stairway alleys, Miragaia originally housed the medieval Jewish quarter. This part of town remains part of the historical past of Porto, including a portion of the city’s once-protective 14th-century walls. These steep streets are lined with both traditional tascas (typical Portuguese eateries) and creative gastropubs, but you’ll get good exercise while exploring them.

Why live in Miragaia?

This district has a bohemian character with secret backyard cafes and breathtaking vistas where you can meet with locals for beers at sunset. Also, some affordable guesthouses and hostels provide themed rooms, and there is local artwork on exhibit highlighting the area’s uniqueness.

With charming restaurants, the infamous Church of São Pedro is the centerpiece of the neighborhood. Less busy than Ribeira and Baixa, this could prove to be a great location for families and travelers looking for a quiet escape without straying too far from the city. In short, Miragia is a neighborhood that allows you to take in the rich history of Porto.

Property prices in Miragaia

As part of Porto’s historic center, the average asking price for property in Miragaia is €4,665 per square meter.

Property types in Miragaia

The picturesque neighborhood of Miragaia offers a variety of property types that reflect its historic charm and growing appeal. Here you’ll find renovated apartments retaining their original features, such as stone facades, wooden floors, and traditional balconies. You’ll also come across artfully restored historic townhouses, riverside homes along the Douro River, and loft conversions of buildings that were originally industrial or commercial spaces. These lofts are popular among young professionals and artists who appreciate open spaces and contemporary design.

5. Bonfim

Bonfim, one of the coolest neighborhoods in Porto, owes much of its character to its early 20th-century townhouses. With city center prices continually on the rise, this district has become the place for the young, creative crowds of the city, while still retaining its older generation of Portuguese residents.

Why live in Bonfim?

Make your way to Bonfim, which is connected to the riverbank by a funicular, if you want to escape the tourist crowds. This calm residential district, which is home to a mix of elderly people and students who enjoy less expensive accommodation, is located east of Porto’s liveliest neighborhoods, Ribeira and Baixa. This corner of the city has a very local vibe, although the district is gentrifying slowly.

You’ll be able to find cozy craft beer taverns and hipster coffee shops are just starting to appear, providing a more modern, trendy vibe to this part of town.

Bonfim could prove to be a great location for families, young creatives, and retirees. Parque de Nova Sintra offers splendid views of the Douro River and is a great place to spend time with your family at the weekend. With a metro line close to the airport and the train station close by, there are great transport links to get around easily.

Property prices in Bonfim

The average asking price for property in Bonfim is €4,404, slightly lower than the areas in Porto’s historic center while still providing a lively environment with an authentic local flair.

Property types in Bonfim

As an up-and-coming neighborhood in Porto, Bonfim offers a diverse range of property types that cater to different tastes and budgets. From refurbished apartments and traditional townhouses – some fully restored and others available as renovation projects – to new developments in the area, including sleek, modern apartment buildings designed to appeal to young professionals and families.

Here you’ll also find former industrial and commercial buildings renovated into trendy loft apartments with open-plan living spaces; and other affordable housing options, making it attractive to first-time buyers, students, and those seeking budget-friendly housing without sacrificing proximity to the city center.

6. Campanhã

A traditional neighborhood close to the heart of the city, here you will find some cheaper properties. This part of Porto is becoming the latest modern fashion hub of the city, yet you can still recall memories from the past all around you. Take the architecture of the train station, for example. From the 19th Century, you can step back in time as you take your morning café and pastel de nata (famous Portuguese custard tart).

Why live in Campanhã?

Living in Campanhã offers the best of the old and new: Authentic charm blended with modern growth.

Its revitalized spaces and improved infrastructure hint at the upward trend of the area.

As Porto’s main transport hub, it’s perfect for those needing excellent connectivity, while still offering a local, community feel.

More affordable than central Porto, Campanhã is attracting young professionals, families, and investors looking for a balance of modern convenience and traditional character in a dynamic, up-and-coming area.

With art galleries, cafes, and theatres opening here, the area is one to watch for property investors and home buyers looking for great value on their purchase.

Property prices in Campanhã

At €3,520 per square meter as the average property price in the area, Campanhã is one of the more affordable areas to purchase property in Porto. And with ongoing development in the neighborhood, you will thank yourself for snapping up property in the area now.

Property types in Campanhã

Campanhã is known for its affordability compared to more central areas, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and families. Similar to the other property types in Porto neighborhoods, you’ll find renovated apartments featuring a blend of original architectural elements and contemporary finishes, and traditional townhouses preserving a piece of Porto’s heritage. New developments are also in the works as Campanhã undergoes urban renewal to attract families and young professionals. Additionally, creatives looking for unique living spaces will find converted loft apartments that might suit their taste.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.