Porto, Portugal
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
4.5/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
4.5/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Renowned for its Port wine and distinctive architecture, Porto is an exceptional city break destination that appeals to all ages.
Party
Porto may not be as electric as Albufeira or Lisbon, but its nightlife is vibrant and makes for a great party destination. Cândido dos Reis and its parallel streets are must-visits, lined with some of the city’s best bars and nightclubs.
Sightseeing
Porto is a beautiful city, with many incredible landmarks to discover. The old town is famed for its colourful, historic buildings that have become synonymous with the city. For some of the best views of the city, consider visiting the Clérigos Tower, which offers unmatched views of the surrounding area.
Relaxation
Porto, like Lisbon, is an affordable city break destination with excellent value. Accommodation is budget-friendly, and dining out is among the cheapest in Western Europe. For even more savings, book flights, hotels, and popular tours, such as river cruises and wine tours, in advance.
Value
Porto, like Lisbon, is an affordable city break destination with excellent value. Accommodation is budget-friendly, and dining out is among the cheapest in Western Europe. For even more savings, book flights, hotels, and popular tours, such as river cruises and wine tours, in advance.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Francisco Sá Carneiro, Porto’s international airport, is located 10 km north of the city center. The quickest and most reliable way to reach the city is by metro. Alternatively, trains, buses, and taxis are also available.
Train
Portugal’s excellent train network makes visiting Porto easy and convenient. Efficient routes connect the city to nearby towns, with a popular high-speed line to Lisbon. Don’t miss São Bento, the country’s busiest station, renowned for its stunning architecture.
Drive
Avoid driving in Porto’s city center due to heavy traffic, narrow streets, and limited parking. However, renting a car is essential for fully exploring the Douro Valley and highly recommended for visiting Porto’s beaches.
Experiences
Porto offers some of Portugal’s best experiences. A Port wine tour and a boat cruise through the Douro Valley are musts, showcasing the region’s beauty and heritage. Music lovers should also catch a performance at Casa da Música, renowned for its diverse weekly lineup.
Best Things To Do
1. Old Town Exploration
Explore Porto’s enchanting Old Town, particularly Ribeira, renowned for its vibrant, historic buildings and rich cultural ambiance. Indulge in the city’s essence as you wander through quaint streets lined with charming cafes and restaurants.
Wander the narrow alleys during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture stunning photos of the colorful facades.
2. Douro River Cruise
Embark on a scenic journey along the Douro River, revealing breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley. Opt for a sunset sailboat or a dinner cruise for an unforgettable experience.
Book your river cruise in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred timing and enjoy a hassle-free excursion.
3. Beach Day Getaway
Escape to Porto’s picturesque beaches for a rejuvenating day by the sea, where you can also indulge in various water sports activities. Venture slightly further to remote beaches like Praia de Miramar and Praia da Memória for a tranquil retreat.
Bring along essentials as amenities may be limited on some remote beaches.
4. Visit Porto's Museums
Immerse yourself in Porto’s rich cultural scene by visiting its diverse array of museums and art galleries. Explore the historic National Museum Soares dos Reis, showcasing exquisite artwork and sculptures, along with other notable venues like Lago Artes and the FC Porto museum.
Check museum schedules in advance and consider purchasing a Porto Card for discounted entry to multiple attractions.
5. Clérigos Tower Vista
Experience panoramic views of Porto from the iconic Clérigos Tower, an architectural masterpiece offering breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and beyond.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues, or visit during weekdays for a quieter atmosphere.
6. Braga Excursion
Venture to nearby Braga, a charming city brimming with historical landmarks, including the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary and the picturesque Braga Cathedral.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Braga’s hilly terrain and consider taking a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.
7. Livraria Lello
Step into the magical world of Livraria Lello, a renowned bookstore celebrated for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and enchanting ambiance.
Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the queue and explore this literary gem at your leisure.
8. Port Wine Tasting
Consider a wine tasting experience in Porto, where you can sample exquisite port wines from renowned vineyards in the Douro Valley.
Consider joining a guided wine tour to gain insight into the region’s winemaking heritage and ensure a memorable tasting experience.
9. Tuk Tuk Adventure
Embark on a thrilling Tuk Tuk tour of Porto, weaving through its narrow streets and hidden gems while enjoying personalized commentary from local guides.
Opt for a customized tour route to cover your preferred attractions and landmarks, and don’t forget to negotiate the price before starting the tour.
10. Casa da Música Experience
Discover Porto’s contemporary cultural hub, Casa da Música, a striking architectural marvel hosting a diverse array of musical performances and events.
Check the event calendar for upcoming concerts or guided tours, and consider booking tickets in advance for popular performances.
1. Old Town Exploration
Explore Porto’s enchanting Old Town, particularly Ribeira, renowned for its vibrant, historic buildings and rich cultural ambiance. Indulge in the city’s essence as you wander through quaint streets lined with charming cafes and restaurants.
Wander the narrow alleys during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture stunning photos of the colorful facades.
2. Douro River Cruise
Embark on a scenic journey along the Douro River, revealing breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley. Opt for a sunset sailboat or a dinner cruise for an unforgettable experience.
Book your river cruise in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred timing and enjoy a hassle-free excursion.
3. Beach Day Getaway
Escape to Porto’s picturesque beaches for a rejuvenating day by the sea, where you can also indulge in various water sports activities. Venture slightly further to remote beaches like Praia de Miramar and Praia da Memória for a tranquil retreat.
Bring along essentials as amenities may be limited on some remote beaches.
4. Visit Porto's Museums
Immerse yourself in Porto’s rich cultural scene by visiting its diverse array of museums and art galleries. Explore the historic National Museum Soares dos Reis, showcasing exquisite artwork and sculptures, along with other notable venues like Lago Artes and the FC Porto museum.
Check museum schedules in advance and consider purchasing a Porto Card for discounted entry to multiple attractions.
5. Clérigos Tower Vista
Experience panoramic views of Porto from the iconic Clérigos Tower, an architectural masterpiece offering breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and beyond.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues, or visit during weekdays for a quieter atmosphere.
6. Braga Excursion
Venture to nearby Braga, a charming city brimming with historical landmarks, including the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary and the picturesque Braga Cathedral.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Braga’s hilly terrain and consider taking a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.
7. Livraria Lello
Step into the magical world of Livraria Lello, a renowned bookstore celebrated for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and enchanting ambiance.
Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the queue and explore this literary gem at your leisure.
8. Port Wine Tasting
Consider a wine tasting experience in Porto, where you can sample exquisite port wines from renowned vineyards in the Douro Valley.
Consider joining a guided wine tour to gain insight into the region’s winemaking heritage and ensure a memorable tasting experience.
9. Tuk Tuk Adventure
Embark on a thrilling Tuk Tuk tour of Porto, weaving through its narrow streets and hidden gems while enjoying personalized commentary from local guides.
Opt for a customized tour route to cover your preferred attractions and landmarks, and don’t forget to negotiate the price before starting the tour.
10. Casa da Música Experience
Discover Porto’s contemporary cultural hub, Casa da Música, a striking architectural marvel hosting a diverse array of musical performances and events.
Check the event calendar for upcoming concerts or guided tours, and consider booking tickets in advance for popular performances.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Porto Card
Unlock the city with ease by purchasing the Porto Card, providing free public transportation and access to numerous attractions.
6.
When to Visit
Embrace Porto’s summertime allure for outdoor adventures, but rest assured the city’s charm extends year-round.
2.
World Famous Wine
Dive into Porto’s legacy as the birthplace of Port wine, boasting historic cellars and exquisite high-end wines.
7.
Safety
Enjoy Porto’s reputation as a safe haven for solo travelers, while exercising caution in crowded areas to deter pickpockets.
3.
Hill Challenges
Navigate Porto’s picturesque yet challenging terrain with caution, especially if mobility is a concern.
8.
Year-round Weather
Bask in Porto’s generally pleasant climate, but be prepared for frequent rainfall, especially in the winter months.
4.
Public Transport
Make the most of Porto’s excellent public transport network for seamless exploration of the city.
9.
Tipping Culture
While not mandatory, adhere to Porto’s customary 10% tipping etiquette when dining out.
5.
Where to Stay
Opt for lodging in Porto’s Old Town for convenient access to top attractions and a central location.
10.
Cash
Ensure you have cash on hand, particularly in Porto’s Old Town where many establishments may not accept cards, often with minimum spend requirements.
6.
When to Visit
Embrace Porto’s summertime allure for outdoor adventures, but rest assured the city’s charm extends year-round.
7.
Safety
Enjoy Porto’s reputation as a safe haven for solo travelers, while exercising caution in crowded areas to deter pickpockets.
8.
Year-round Weather
Bask in Porto’s generally pleasant climate, but be prepared for frequent rainfall, especially in the winter months.
9.
Tipping Culture
While not mandatory, adhere to Porto’s customary 10% tipping etiquette when dining out.
10.
Cash
Ensure you have cash on hand, particularly in Porto’s Old Town where many establishments may not accept cards, often with minimum spend requirements.