Porto – Tips for Your Trip

Beautiful facades with colorful tiles, narrow alleys with countless stairs, numerous churches, a modern yet partially crumbling old town, morning fog, delicious food, a vibrant bar culture – all of this is Porto.

The city, located directly on the Douro River, is often called the “little sister of Lisbon”. In our opinion, this is completely unfair, as Porto, with its many exciting and interesting attractions both in the city center and the surrounding areas, does not need to hide in the shadow of the capital. In this post, we'll share which sights you shouldn’t miss during your short trip to Porto.

THE SIGHTS IN PORTO

1. THE PONTE DOM LUÍS I BRIDGE

The Ponte Dom Luís I bridge is without a doubt the symbol of Porto and has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As one of the city’s six bridges connecting the center with the suburbs, Ponte Dom Luís I stands out for its central location and distinctive architecture.
The 385-meter-long bridge consists of two levels. The upper level is 60 meters high and connects Sé Cathedral with the Mosteiro do Pilar monastery.
The lower level is about 10 meters above the Douro River and connects Porto with the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Port wine lovers are in the right place here and also have a fantastic view of Porto.

The view of the famous metal bridge is impressive at any time of day, whether at sunset or at night.
The downside, however, is that you’ll have to share the bridge with many other tourists, especially in the evening.

‍Good to know: In summer, the bridge serves as the venue for daring bridge jumpers who plunge into the Douro despite ship traffic and strong currents.
At low tide, the jump from the lower level to the water is around 15 meters. This way, the jumpers earn some money and apparently enjoy themselves too.

2. PORTO SÃO BENTO TRAIN STATION

This attraction is not only free but also a real eye-catcher: Porto São Bento is considered the most beautiful train station in Portugal – and perhaps even in all of Europe.
Originally a monastery, the building is not only an architectural jewel from the outside but also especially impressive from the inside.
The entrance hall is artistically decorated with the typical Azulejos – blue and white tiles – that are famous in Portugal.
The walls are almost entirely covered with these tiles, telling historical stories.

‍Tip: Stand in the middle of the entrance hall and spin around to fully enjoy the beauty and detail of the tile work.

3. PORTO CATHEDRAL

Not far from the Porto São Bento train station, just a few steps up the Pena Ventosa hill, you’ll find the over 800-year-old Porto Cathedral.
Built in a Romanesque-Gothic style, it stands on the highest point of the city and is considered Porto’s main cathedral. In Portuguese, it’s called Sé do Porto.
The imposing cathedral not only defines the cityscape but is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sé do Porto can be visited for free daily: from April to October, from 9:00 am to 12:15 pm and 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm, and from November to March until 5:15 pm.

4. THE RIBEIRA DISTRICT – PORTO'S OLD TOWN

Ribeira is undoubtedly Porto’s most famous district and an absolute must-see for every visitor.
The district stretches along the Douro River waterfront up to the Ponte do Infante and extends to Porto São Bento.
Before Ribeira was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, it was mainly home to poor fishermen and simple folk.

Even today, this part of the city is characterized by narrow, steep alleys and simple, densely packed houses that reflect the lifestyle of the past.
Many buildings are in need of renovation, and the mix of dilapidated, vacant buildings and modern, colorful structures with Azulejo decorations gives the riverside district its unique charm.

Since Ribeira is terraced, prepare for some stairs. Take your time exploring and allow yourself to get lost in the narrow, historic streets to fully enjoy the special atmosphere of the neighborhood.

We stayed in the fantastic Calacatta Housing accommodation, located directly between Ribeira and Porto's dining and nightlife district, so we highly recommend this place!

5. SHOPPING ON RUA DE SANTA CATARINA

Rua de Santa Catarina is undoubtedly Porto’s most famous shopping street. Here, you’ll find everything your heart desires: from international brands to souvenir shops to small boutiques and regional stores, there’s something for every taste.
In the middle of this bustling street lies the ViaCatarina shopping center, which is also worth a visit.

A few meters away, on Rua Formosa, you’ll find one of Porto’s landmarks: the Pérola do Bolhão store with its beautiful Art Nouveau facade – a true eye-catcher.
As you stroll through the streets, you may feel as though time has stood still in some of the shop windows of regional stores.
Here, you’ll find traditional knitwear, repair shops for old electrical appliances, and much more that adds to the nostalgic charm of the area.

Take time to explore Rua de Santa Catarina and the surrounding side streets, and treat yourself to a small break in one of the cozy cafes.
Here, you can enjoy typical Portuguese treats like Pastéis de Nata and other delights.

6. THE LIVRARIA LELLO BOOKSTORE

From the outside, the building on Rua das Carmelitas, near the old town, looks rather inconspicuous, but inside lies what is probably the most beautiful bookstore in Europe: Livraria Lello.
Opened in 1869, the bookstore has been a listed building since 2013 and is now a staple of every guidebook on Porto.
However, this has meant that the regular customers have been replaced by crowds of tourists, who primarily come to take photos of the impressive interior.

To counter this, the owner decided to charge an entrance fee of $8 for a 30-minute visit, which is credited if you purchase a book.
Admittedly, we also felt like we were stepping into a scene from Harry Potter during our visit – it’s rumored that J.K. Rowling was inspired by Livraria Lello while living in Porto.

During our first visit, in the midst of the pandemic, we were lucky to enter without queuing. On our second visit, however, we experienced just how long the queues can get.
Even in late July, with temperatures over 30°C, the queue extended all the way to the Igreja dos Clérigos.

As beautiful as Livraria Lello is, in our opinion, the long wait isn’t worth it. Spend your time exploring Porto’s many other wonderful places instead!

7. PALÁCIO DA BOLSA

The Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) was once a commercial court and the seat of Porto's stock exchange.
Built in the mid-19th century in a neoclassical style, the building is now used for cultural events, political meetings, and large celebrations.

The palace can only be visited as part of a 40-minute guided tour. During the tour, you’ll see some particularly noteworthy rooms, such as the impressive Hall of Nations and the magnificent Arab Room.

The guided tour through the Palácio da Bolsa is scheduled and available in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish.
If you’re interested in an English-speaking tour, be sure to book in advance. Admission costs $10 per person and can be purchased online.

8. PRAÇA DA LIBERDADE IN PORTO

The Praça da Liberdade (Liberty Square) is located in the heart of Porto and is one of the city’s central spots.
In the middle of the long square stands the imposing statue of Dom Pedro IV, while at the end is the magnificent city hall, which, with its large “PORTO” sign, serves as a popular photo spot.

The square is bordered by Avenida dos Aliados, a well-known street lined with high-end boutiques, designer stores, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and some souvenir shops.

During national events, Praça da Liberdade transforms into a large fan zone, visited by thousands of locals and tourists, perfectly reflecting Porto’s vibrant atmosphere.

9. IGREJA DO CARMO

Not far from Livraria Lello and the Torre dos Clérigos stands the Igreja do Carmo, built in Rococo style.
It’s actually two churches, Igreja do Carmo and Igreja das Carmelitas, built side by side in the 18th century.

The Igreja do Carmo is more famous due to its beautiful and unique side facade. It’s featured in every guidebook and is very popular on social media.
The huge artwork of countless blue and white Azulejos on the facade makes for a fantastic photo opportunity.

It’s also worth taking a look inside the church. The altar area is lavishly adorned with golden decorations. Even if you’re not a fan of religious buildings, don’t miss this one.

Our tip: Come here just before sunset, when the sun bathes Igreja do Carmo and the square in front of it in beautiful light.
With a bit of luck, one of the old trams might pass by during your visit – the perfect photo opportunity!

The church can be visited daily for free from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

10. IGREJA DE SANTO ILDEFONSO

In Porto, it’s hard to miss the numerous churches and chapels – they’re on almost every corner and are fascinating with their artistic decorations.
One particularly impressive example is the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, located not far from the São Bento train station at the intersection of Rua de Santa Catarina and Rua da Madeira.

The church, built in 1739, captivated us, like many buildings in Porto, with its stunning blue and white Azulejo-tiled facade.
You can visit Igreja de Santo Ildefonso daily for free between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm to admire its artistic architecture.

11. CAPELA DAS ALMAS

In the middle of Rua de Santa Catarina, near the well-known Bolhão Market, stands the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls).

A true masterpiece of art, with nearly 16,000 Azulejos decorating the chapel, making it a real eye-catcher from the outside.
The large mural depicts scenes from the lives of Saint Francis of Assisi (a saint of the Roman Catholic Church) and Saint Catherine.
Anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city will find it inside Capela das Almas.
Inside, you’ll hear nothing of the loud activity from Rua Catarina and passing cars.

The chapel can be visited daily for free between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.

12. SECRET TIP FOR PORTO: STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING IN THE DOURO VALLEY

About half an hour from Porto lies the picturesque wine region of the Douro Valley.
The Douro River flows from Spain along steep vineyards and winds for several hundred kilometers through northern Portugal until it reaches the Atlantic Ocean.
If you have enough time during your Porto stay, a trip to the idyllic Douro Valley is an absolute must.

We chose a guided Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour (SUP), which we booked through Airbnb Experiences – and it was definitely one of the best decisions!
Our guide Alex led us from Castelo Beach, right on the Douro, into the Rio Paiva.
The breathtaking tour lasted a total of 3 hours, during which we glided silently over the water, surrounded by the stunning green landscape of Porto's hinterland.
Of course, there were also several opportunities to cool off in the river.

You can find the tour with Alex and more information under Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour in the Douro Valley. You can also book a tour through getyourguide.

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VIEWPOINTS IN PORTO

1. JARDIM DE MORRO

Almost better than wandering through Porto is viewing the city from afar – especially at sunset.
If you walk across Ponte Dom Luís I from the center, you'll reach Jardim do Morro on the right, offering a breathtaking view of Porto's colorful cityscape.

Although many tourists gather here in the evening as the sun sets behind Porto, Jardim do Morro is a must on your sightseeing list. The sight of the sunset over the city is unforgettable.

‍Good to know: The spots on the lawn fill up quickly, both in peak and off-season. To secure a good spot, make sure to arrive early.

2. THE VIEW FROM TORRE DOS CLÉRIGOS

The six-story Torre dos Clérigos, along with the adjoining church, is visible from afar. Standing at 75 meters, it's the tallest building in Porto.
Naturally, the view from the top is spectacular, making Torre dos Clérigos a popular tourist attraction.

‍Our tip: Arrive right at 9 am when the tower opens! After climbing the 240 steps, you'll be rewarded with a magnificent view over Porto.
If you visit around midday, you may face long queues and a crowded tower. The climb is quite narrow, and going up with oncoming traffic can be a bit uncomfortable.

Torre dos Clérigos is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Entrance is $8 per person, and it’s advisable to buy tickets online in advance: Torre dos Clérigos Tickets.

3. JARDINS DO PALÁCIO DE CRISTAL

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is an ideal retreat for those seeking an escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with its numerous green areas, ponds, ancient trees, various plants and flowers, and free-roaming peacocks and swans.

The park is especially lovely just before or at sunset. Bring a drink and a snack, settle on one of the many benches, and enjoy the beautiful natural spectacle amidst Porto!
For us, it’s the best way to end a successful sightseeing day in Porto.

Entrance to the park is free and open daily from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm from April to September and from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm from October to March.

4. PARQUE DAS VIRTUDES

Despite its central location, Parque das Virtudes remains a hidden gem.
Many tourists are still unaware of this small yet beautiful green space in Porto’s old town, meaning the park is rarely crowded.

From Parque das Virtudes, you have a fantastic view over the city, the Rio Douro, and all the way to the Ponte da Arrábida.
Times just before sunset and early morning walks are especially nice here. Bringing snacks and drinks can make the view even more enjoyable.

Entrance to the park is free and open daily from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm from April to September and from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm from October to March.

5. THE VILA NOVA DE GAIA CABLE CAR

For a bird’s-eye view of Porto, take a ride on the Teleférico de Gaia cable car. The short ride connects the upper part of the city (Jardim do Morro) with the lower part near the river.

In our opinion, you can save the $6 fare per person. The height difference between the stations can be easily covered on foot.
A path runs down to the Douro River just left of the cable car. Spend the money on a few delicious Pastéis de Nata instead!

ADDITIONAL NOTES & MISCELLANEOUS ABOUT PORTO

FOOD & DRINK IN PORTO

When it comes to culinary delights in Porto, you’ll probably first think of the famous Port wine. However, Porto has much more to offer food lovers.
Besides Port wine, you can enjoy typical Portuguese bock beer, fresh seafood, and, of course, the delicious Pastéis de Nata – all at a fair price.

Breakfast in Porto is also a treat. The most popular spot is probably Zenith, where the extensive breakfast menu features trendy dishes like peanut butter pancakes, Açai smoothie bowls, Oreo French toast, or homemade eggs Benedict.
Due to its popularity, it’s best to arrive early. Another lesser-known but equally fantastic alternative is Garden Porto.

For lunch or dinner, we highly recommend some non-Portuguese but still excellent options: the Asian BOA-BAO, Pizza Club, and Casa Guedes Progresso serve delicious dishes that will delight your taste buds.

Need a sweet snack? Try the famous Pastéis de Nata, puff pastry tarts filled with vanilla custard. You can find them in many cafes with street service throughout Porto.
Although this treat originated in Lisbon, Porto’s versions are just as good.

For a relaxed drink in a cozy atmosphere, we recommend Bar Candelabro. Here, you’ll find good, affordable drinks, a young, laid-back crowd, and mostly locals.
The bar is definitely a hidden gem for a few relaxed drinks in Porto!

BEST TIME TO VISIT PORTO

Porto is a great destination year-round, so the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences.
We visited both at the end of July and the end of September and can personally recommend visiting the city in spring or autumn.
During these seasons, the climate is mild, temperatures are pleasant, and the sun contributes to a relaxed atmosphere.
Additionally, it rarely rains in these months, unlike in the winter months. Another advantage: It’s off-peak season, so the number of tourists is manageable.

From mid-June to mid-September, Porto experiences its peak season. In August, temperatures can reach around 40°C, and accommodation prices rise accordingly.
Also, tourist numbers are high, meaning you often have to wait in long queues for attractions, and the beautiful parks and hotspots are rarely enjoyed in peace.

In winter, the weather is often foggy and rainy. If you don’t mind wet and gloomy weather, this season could also be an option.
Temperatures rarely drop below 0°C, but snow is a rarity – in the past 30 years, it has only snowed a few times, and the snow doesn’t stick.

GETTING TO PORTO

You can fly into Porto from many destinations worldwide, with frequent connections offered by airlines such as Ryanair, TAP Air Portugal, and other major carriers.
Use platforms like skyscanner.com to compare and find the best flight options for your trip.

Flight times to Portugal vary depending on your starting point—flights from many European cities typically take around 2–3 hours, while longer-haul flights from other continents may require layovers and take 8–12 hours.

While last-minute deals are sometimes available, booking in advance is highly recommended to save money and secure your seats, especially during the busy peak season.
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From the airport, which is about 16 kilometers away, there are several options to get to Porto’s center. Metro Line E (purple) takes you to the center in about 35 minutes for around $3.
The bus also gets you to the city center with lines 601, 602, or 604 for around $2. Another option, which we chose due to time constraints, is Uber.
Depending on your destination in the center, you’ll pay between $20 and $25 and be driven directly to your location.

GETTING AROUND IN PORTO

Porto is a city best explored on foot. The hilly, winding alleys and many stairs make walking the best way to discover all the key sights, which are close together.
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must – you’ll appreciate them as your loyal companions!

If you want to visit the suburbs or Porto’s coastal beaches, we recommend using public transport, Uber, or a bike, as these distances are too far to walk.
Public transport in Porto is well-organized, and you can buy tickets at machines in metro stations or train stations.

For less than $1, you can get the Andante Card, a rechargeable card for single rides or day tickets.
Important: Each person needs their own card, as it’s not possible to load two rides for two people on one card. A single fare costs about $3 and is valid for one hour after validation.
The Andante 24 day ticket costs about $8 and is valid for 24 hours from the first validation for metro and bus. The Funicular dos Guindais can also be used with these tickets.
To validate your ticket, hold the Andante Card up to the yellow ticket validator before boarding a bus, tram, or metro.

If you plan to visit multiple attractions, the Porto Card could be a good option. It offers free or discounted entry to many attractions and also serves as a public transport ticket.

‍Extra savings tip: Every Sunday morning until around 2 pm, entry to most museums in Porto is free – perfect for a budget-friendly sightseeing tour!

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS IN PORTO

Finding the perfect accommodation in cities can sometimes be challenging. However, with Calacatta Housing in Porto’s old town, we made the right choice.
Not only was the location ideal, but the amenities and value for money were excellent.
Porto, with its narrow alleys and hills, is a city best explored on foot, so we also recommend choosing accommodation in the center.

The good news: In the city center, there’s a wide selection of great hotels, apartments, guesthouses, and bed & breakfasts at fair prices.
On popular platforms like booking.com or Airbnb, you’re sure to find suitable accommodation.

Porto is a compact city, and you can see all the main sights in two days.
However, if you want to spend time at the beach or explore the beautiful Douro Valley, you should plan for at least three or more days.
We’ve already spent several days in Porto twice and would definitely come back for a third time!

SAFETY & DRUGS IN THE CITY

Portugal is a safe country, and crime rates are low.
However, as in other European cities, petty crime does occur, especially in tourist hotspots such as the old town or in front of famous sights.
‍Be cautious of pickpocketing and petty crime in these areas. Keep an eye on your valuables, and only take what you really need with you!

Due to Portugal’s many ports, drugs like marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine, etc., enter the country more easily.
Unlike in many countries, possession of small amounts of drugs, such as 25 grams of cannabis, 2 grams of cocaine, or 1 gram of heroin or crystal meth, is decriminalized in Portugal.
In Porto, we were approached several times, especially around the train station, with offers to buy drugs. A shake of the head or a simple “no” is enough to turn them away.
We didn’t experience any pushy drug dealers.

Planning a road trip through Portugal? Then our following posts might be interesting for you:

• From Porto to Lisbon – A Road Trip Along the Portuguese Coast
• A Road Trip from Lisbon to Faro – Along the Algarve Coast
• Lisbon – Tips for the Portuguese Capital

Enjoy browsing and planning!

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Discover the best accommodations
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com
• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com
• The best Travel Guides for Porto
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Porto

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Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.