( Porto Travel Guide including Top Things to Do, Where to Stay, What to Eat, Best Time to Visit & Transport Tips)
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is famous for its historic charm, stunning river views, and world-renowned Port wine. From the colourful Ribeira district to the majestic Dom Luís I Bridge, Porto is a must-visit for food lovers, history buffs, and culture seekers alike.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Porto!
Table of Contents
Porto Travel Guide – Top Things to See & Do 🏰👩🎓
No visit to Porto is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Here are the top attractions and experiences:
1. Explore the Ribeira District 🌆
📌 A UNESCO-listed riverside quarter with colourful houses, traditional boats, and lively cafes.
📌 Perfect for sunset walks along the Douro River
2. Visit Livraria Lello 📚
📌 Described as of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, reputed to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s vision for Harry Potter (though she has denied ever going in there on social media)
📌 Book tickets online in advance if you wish to visit and expect a queue. Hands up here to say we decided NOT to pay and go into what is effectively a shop!
3. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge 🌉
📌 An iconic double-deck metal bridge with panoramic views over Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
📌 Visit at sunset for stunning golden-hour photos.
4. Tour the Port Wine Cellars 🍷
📌 Visit the famous wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia to taste the world-famous Port wine.
📌 According to Eating Europe, the Top wineries in Porto are: Graham’s Port Lodge, Churchills, Calém, Cockburn’s, Quinta do Nova and Kopke Wine House.
5. Climb Clérigos Tower 🏰
📌 Porto’s best viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the city.
📌 A 240-step climb, but the views are worth it!
6. Visit São Bento Train Station 🚃
📌 Famous for its beautiful azulejo tile panels depicting Portugal’s history.
📌 A must-see even if you’re not taking a train!
7. Take a Douro River Cruise 🌊
📌 Enjoy spectacular views of Porto’s bridges and wine country from the water.
📌 Various boat tours available, including traditional Rabelo boats.
Where to Stay in Porto 🏨
Suggested Areas to Stay in Porto
📌 Ribeira – Best for first-time visitors, close to major attractions.
📌 Baixa – Great for shopping, dining, and nightlife.
📌 Vila Nova de Gaia – Ideal for wine lovers, with great river views.
We chose to stay near Campanha station as it was an easy trip into the centre of Porto but we will say that the area is a little run down. The apartment – Feel Corporate Housing Campanha – was one of the best we have ever stayed in and we were only a short walk away from a Lidl supermarket. So we would recommend it!
Porto has various accommodation options, from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses:
🏨 Luxury: The Yeatman Hotel – Stunning views and top-notch service.
🏨 Mid-Range: PortoBay Flores – A charming boutique hotel.
🏨 Budget: The Passenger Hostel – Located inside São Bento Station!
What to Eat in Porto 🍽
Porto is a paradise for food lovers! Here are must-try dishes:
🍽 Francesinha – A legendary sandwich stuffed with meat and covered in beer sauce.
🍽 Bacalhau à Brás – Salted cod mixed with potatoes and eggs.
🍽 Tripas à moda do Porto – A traditional Porto-style tripe stew.
🍽 Port Wine – A must-try, best enjoyed at a riverside wine lodge.
Best Time to Visit Porto ☀️
📅 Spring (March-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov) – Ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures.
📅 Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, but busier.
📅 Winter (Dec-Feb) – Quiet but enjoyable with fewer crowds.
How to Get Around Porto 🚍🛴
🚍 Metro, Trams & Buses – Easy and efficient for getting around.
🥾 Walking – Porto is hilly, but many attractions are close together.
🚡 Funicular dos Guindais – A fun way to avoid steep climbs!
Final Thoughts
As you have read in this Porto travel guide it is a city of charm, history, and incredible food. Whether you’re sipping Port wine by the river, exploring historic landmarks, or indulging in delicious Portuguese cuisine, you’ll fall in love with Porto’s unique character.