Things to Do in Porto, Portugal: Explore Like a Local

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, has become a major tourist destination in recent years, attracting over three million visitors annually. Despite its popularity, Porto retains its homey, traditional atmosphere that needs to be experienced firsthand.

Between the tranquil Douro River, world-class port wine, historic monuments, and captivating architecture, Porto offers something for everyone.

Use this list of top things to do in Porto to inspire you to experience Porto like a local and get an authentic experience of the city rather than just ticking off tourist spots.

We’ll also give you insider tips for planning your trip, including where to stay in Porto, getting around the city, and the weather you can expect.

Porto Cheat Sheet: Planning Your Trip

Porto was named Europe’s Leading Seaside Metropolitan Destination for the second year in a row in the 2024 World Travel Awards, and ranked eighth on Time Out’s World’s 50 Best Cities for 2025, too.

These accolades, combined with its vibrant spirit and authentic heritage of the city, explain why Porto continues to attract more travelers each year.

If you are curious about experiencing Porto’s charm for yourself, here are the essentials to know when planning your trip.

Where is Porto?

Porto is located in Northern Portugal, overlooking the beautiful Douro River. It’s roughly 300 kilometers (about a three-hour drive) north of the capital, Lisbon.

How to get to Porto?

Porto is easily accessible through its own international airport (Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport or Porto Airport). If you are traveling from elsewhere in Portugal, trains, taxis, and private cars are convenient to use.

How long should you spend in Porto?

Porto is best explored over a couple of weeks if you are able, because it allows you to soak up the experiences along with the peaceful lifestyle of the incredible city. You can easily spend months in Porto and not get bored. However, you can see most of the highlights in three to four days.

When to visit: Weather in Porto

Porto experiences mild winters and warm summers, and is generally cooler in temperature compared to the sunny South of Portugal. Below, you’ll get a better idea of the seasons in Porto to help you decide when to book your trip.

• Spring and early summer (March to June): This is generally considered the best times to visit Porto. Temperatures are pleasantly warm, and you’ll have fewer crowds than peak summer.
• Summer (July to August): This is peak tourist (and summer) season, ideal for water activities and cruises along the Douro River. The most popular historical monuments and attractions may get quite crowded.
• Fall (September to November): This time of the year still offers enjoyable warm days and fewer tourists. It is also harvesting season in the Douro Valley, making it a great time for wine lovers to visit the city.
• Winter (December to February): Cooler and wetter weather, but typically less crowded than the other seasons. You can enjoy a cozy, festive atmosphere around the holidays.

Where to stay in Porto?

When booking your accommodation, you’ll find you have many options to choose from, whether you prefer a budget-friendly arrangement, like Hotel Carrís, or a more luxurious experience at Torel Palace or the popular Pestana Palácio do Freixo.

Short-term rental sites like Airbnb and Booking.com are quite commonly used when searching for accommodation, if you would like to stay in a particular neighborhood in Porto.

The best places to live in Porto, Portugal, include:

• Ribeira: This charming, central neighborhood is perfect for first-timers, offering stunning views and historic buildings.
• Cedofeita and Baixa: These are also central options, which are great for experiencing some of the best of Portugal’s nightlife, art galleries, restaurants, and shopping.
• Boavista: This is a more upscale, quiet neighborhood that has access to the Casa da Música concert hall and Avenida da Boavista, an avenue that leads straight to the sea.
• Bonfim: A trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood with a creative rhythm, great local restaurants, and a more authentic, residential feel.

How to get around Porto?

One of the perks of a modern city like Porto is that there are tons of options to get around. It all depends on where you are going and your personal preferences for navigating a city. Here are the most common options to get from A to B:

• On foot: Walking is a great way to explore Porto, given its compact yet scenic layout. Lots of monuments and attractions are just a short walk apart from each other. However, fair warning, the city is quite hilly.
• Public transport: The efficient metro, bus, and tram systems are all at your fingertips. You can also try the Guindais Funicular, which connects Ribeira to Batalha.
• Taxis and ridesharing: Uber and Bolt are widely used in Porto.
• Tourist-friendly transport: There are hop-on, hop-off buses to enjoy a quick overview of the city.

The Best Things to Do in Porto

To plan your itinerary, use our list of ideas for what to do in Porto to get inspired and find your top picks.

Remember, Porto is best enjoyed slowly, so try to spread your activities out wisely to experience the city the way it is meant to be.

1. Explore Porto’s beautiful old town and city center on foot

Walking through Porto’s UNESCO-listed historic city center is like walking through a living museum. The traditional colorful tiles (azulejos) and historic buildings keep centuries of stories alive, sharing pieces of history with each person who passes by.

From the bustling, riverside Ribeira district, with its vibrant houses, ancient Sé Cathedral, and the exquisite famous churches, the old town is best experienced on foot.

Start at São Bento train station, one of the most beautiful train stations you’ll ever see, and stroll down Rua das Flores, a vibrant pedestrian street. Then, explore all the Ribeira district has to offer before venturing up to the Porto Cathedral for stunning views.

2. Taste Port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia

A day trip to the Port wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia is an absolute must. Just across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, these historic port cellars house some of the best wines in the world.

Each wine estate and lodge have their own unique signature wines, so our recommendation would be to join a wine tour to experience and compare a few different ones.

These experiences usually include a guided cellar tour on each estate, where you can learn about the establishment’s history, production process, and aging secrets of the iconic Port wine, before enjoying a port tasting session.

3. Cycle along the Douro River

A wonderfully scenic way to enjoy an afternoon in Porto is to rent a bike and cycle along the Douro River.

You can start near the city center, where the well-maintained bike paths will lead you towards the Atlantic Ocean.

The trail guides you past charming riverside villages, quaint fishing boats, and stunning views of both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side of the Douro River.

4. Take a scenic boat ride

Another vantage point from which to view Porto is the water.

Traditional Rabelo boat cruises are available for slow rides down the river, or you can join one of the popular Six Bridges cruises.

These tours offer unique perspectives of Porto’s iconic bridges, the colorful Ribeira waterfront, and Vila Nova de Gaia’s riverside wine lodges, all while retracing the historic path of the wine trade.

5. Eat a pastel de nata (or three)

While the creamy, caramelized pastel de nata custard tart originated in Lisbon, the sweet treat has grown into a sort of national treasure. Porto has its own equally fantastic versions that are a classic part of the local culinary experience.

Seek out local bakeries in Porto where they are baked fresh throughout the day, often still warm with a slightly crisp, flaky pastry. Two top recommendations to try are Manteigaria and Castro.

Pair the tart with a Portuguese espresso, known as a bica, for a light breakfast or mid-afternoon treat.

6. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge (and take unreal pictures)

The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge is a magnificent double-deck iron bridge designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel.

Crossing the upper deck of the bridge, you’ll experience one of the city’s most iconic panoramic views, perfect for capturing the most magical photos.

Pro tip: The views are particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, when the city is covered in golden light.

7. Visit Porto’s scenic gardens and parks

Yes, Porto is quite a modern city, but that does not mean it is lacking in natural beauty. Choose a sunny day to escape the urban bustle and find tranquility in Porto’s serene gardens and parks.

The Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens) jump straight out of a romance novel, with charming pathways, trimmed hedges, quaint little fountains, and even resident peacocks. Round out your day with a trip to the nearby art district. You can take a walk down Miguel Bombarda Street and stroll through the art galleries for some creative inspiration.

If you’re up for a full park day, head to Parque da Cidade, Porto’s largest urban park, which stretches all the way to the Atlantic coast. When you visit, you’ll be able to walk to Matosinhos, a city home to Porto’s most popular beach.

Not only will you find lush greenery, duck ponds, and endless walking trails, but Parque da Cidade also offers access to restaurants and hosts exciting events and shows throughout the year, including the Primavera Sound Porto music festival and regular flea markets selling organic products. The Sea Life Porto Aquarium is also located next to one of the park’s entrances.

8. Take a day trip to the Douro Valley

Speaking of natural beauty, another must see in Porto is the Douro Valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, with a breathtaking landscape of terraced vineyards, steep hillsides, and charming historic quintas in Portugal (traditional wine estates).

You can explore the Douro Valley on a leisurely boat trip on the river, a serene train ride, or as part of a guided wine tour to explore the history of the area and its traditional port wine production.

If you plan to spend a few days discovering the region, Peso da Régua, Lamego, and Pinhão are great places for overnight stays.

9. Visit Mercado do Bolhão

Immerse yourself in the vibrant buzz of Porto’s historic, but recently renovated, Mercado do Bolhão.

This food market is brimming with fresh produce, bright flowers, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and, of course, a tempting selection of local fresh fish and seafood, caught daily from the Atlantic Ocean.

There are also a few local sit–down eateries at the market to enjoy a tasty meal after browsing and restocking your pantry.

10. Discover Porto’s historic monuments

If you are after more of a traditional sightseeing day filled with historic monuments and buildings, there are plenty of must-see Porto landmarks. History lovers will love a visit to the following places:

• Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos): Climb this iconic bell tower for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Porto.
• Sé Cathedral (Porto Cathedral): Explore Porto’s ancient fortress-cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, which features a beautiful azulejo-decorated Gothic cloister.
• Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace): Discover this opulent 19th-century neoclassical building, the former stock exchange, famous for its lavish rooms, including the majestic Arab Room.
• Church of São Francisco (Igreja de São Francisco): This ornate church’s stunning gilt woodwork and intricate artwork cover almost every surface. Stepping inside is a true jaw-dropping moment.
• São Bento Train Station: This operational train station’s stunning main hall is decorated with over 20,000 intricate blue and white azulejo tiles depicting Portuguese history and life.
• Lello Bookshop (Livraria Lello): Visit one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops, famous for its stunning Neo-Gothic architecture and ornate staircase, which is said to have inspired parts of the Harry Potter series.

Pro tip: There are many cultural tours, walking tours, and excursions that will cover a lot of these landmarks in one day. The perks of opting for a private tour are that your guides will be most efficient at getting you in and out with the shortest wait times and will also have deep knowledge of the history of each monument.

11. Enjoy a beach day at Matosinhos Beach

When the beautiful city has left you craving sand and sea, hop on the metro for an easy ride to Matosinhos Beach for a relaxing city break.

This wide, sandy stretch is popular with locals and visitors for both swimming and surfing, with several surf schools offering lessons for all levels.

Once the sun has disappeared, indulge in some of the freshest grilled seafood at one of the many excellent, casual restaurants lining the promenade.

Some of the best beaches in Portugal can be found in the Porto area.

12. Climb the Porto Bridge (yes, really!)

For the adventurous traveler, try the Porto Bridge Climb on the Arrábida Bridge. This exhilarating experience is the only climb of its kind in Europe, allowing you to ascend the graceful arch of the bridge itself.

This is another activity where you are rewarded with pinch-yourself views of the city, the winding Douro River, and the stunning coastline.

13. Watch a live show at Casa da Música or São João Theatre

For creatives looking for the best things to do in Porto, Portugal, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in Porto’s cultural scene than by catching a live performance.

Experience a concert at the Casa da Música, a striking modern building renowned for its innovative architectural design and world-class acoustics. Casa da Música hosts a diverse range of musical acts, offering something for all tastes.

Alternatively, enjoy a classic play, opera, or ballet performance at the historic Teatro Nacional São João, a grand theatre that serves as a cornerstone of Portuguese performing arts.

14. Spend a morning at Serralves Museum and Gardens

The Serralves Foundation brings an inspiring fusion of art, architecture, and nature. It features a Contemporary Art Museum with multiple exhibitions all year, a charming Art Deco Villa available for touring, and extensive, beautifully landscaped gardens.

Within the park, you’ll find a formal botanical garden, woodlands, and a traditional farm, along with “The Gardeners’ House” (another architectural project on the site), as well as a treetop walk.

Stepping onto the complex feels like stepping into another world entirely, leaving you inspired and wanting more.

15. Experience Porto’s nightlife

As the sun sets, Porto transforms into a lively hub. At night is the perfect time to enjoy a soulful fado performance in a cozy, traditional tavern, or sip sophisticated rooftop cocktails with glittering city views.

You can also dance the night away around Galerias de Paris street, Porto’s vibrant nightlife area. Some of the top recommended spots are:

• Ferro Bar: Stays open until five in the morning, offering a mix of electronic music DJs, rock concerts, and art performances
• Club Gare: The go-to spot for groove and minimal techno lovers
• Passos Manuel: A two-floor disco and concert hall
• Pérola Negra: An old cabaret house transformed into a club
• Maus Hábitos: An iconic venue known for live music shows and niche parties

Final Thoughts

It is clear that Porto offers tons of activities and must-see attractions for every personality. Whether you prefer to soak in its history, relax along the Douro River, or sample the signature port wine while taking in the incredible vineyard views of the Douro Valley or Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto will have you endlessly entertained.

Even after this extensive Porto, Portugal things to do guide, there is still the rest of tourism in Portugal to discover.

You can find more ideas in our things to do in Portugal and things to do in Lisbon guides.

Considering living in Porto?

Should you be going one step further than visiting this charming city and are considering living in Porto, you’ll find it an excellent place to live. From delicious food, great infrastrucutre, and welcoming locals, Porto is one of the best places in Europe to move to.

There are also excellent international schools in Porto, should you be moving with your family.

If you are planning on staying in Portugal long-term and are thinking of moving to Portugal, our expert team at Goldcrest is here to make the process easier.

We can help you find a convenient long-term rental home, close to all the best things to do in Porto, or help you find your dream forever home if you are planning to buy and relocate to the country.

You will find many Porto retirement homes and dream retirement spots, should you be thinking of enjoying your golden years in Portugal’s stunning second city, while there are also ample opportunities when it comes to buying property in Porto to get excellent deals, whether you are moving to work or to relocate with family.

Investing in Porto real estate can yield exceptional returns. Contact us to find out more about your options.