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P O R T O

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE, PORTO

Porto, in northwest Portugal, is an amazing coastal city. Its history, beautiful buildings, and unique culture make it special. You can explore historic neighbourhoods, see famous landmarks, and taste delicious port wine. The Ribeira district by the Douro River is a colourful, lively place to visit. Plus, the Serra do Pilar hill offers breathtaking views. In a nutshell, Porto has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

GETTING AROUND

Porto is considered one of the most walkable cities in Europe. Its hills might provide a workout, but they will also reward you with stunning panoramic views of the city.

When you want to take a break from walking, the city’s Metro system is a convenient option. It has six lines and 81 stations, operating from 6 AM to 1 AM.

If you’re looking to travel to nearby destinations like Vila Nova de Gaia, you’ll find that Porto has numerous bus routes available. The service operates daily from 6 AM to 1 AM.

For a classic and budget-friendly mode of transportation, take a ride on the tram. A one-way trip only costs €3.

Taxis in Porto are quite affordable compared to other major cities in Europe, with an average journey in the city centre costing €4-6.

To make the most of your visit to Porto without breaking the bank, I highly recommend getting a Porto Card. You can choose from 1, 2, 3, or 4-day options, and it comes with fantastic benefits. With this card, you get free access to public transportation and can explore six museums for free. Plus, you’ll enjoy up to a 50% discount and priority access (skip-the-line) at several of Porto’s top attractions, like the Clérigos Tower, Palácio Da Bolsa, and selected restaurants. It’s a smart choice for those who want to maximise their time and savings while exploring this beautiful city! If you’re interested, you can find more details and purchase it here: Porto Card Details

PORTO'S BEST NEIGHBOURHOODS

Porto is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Among the many great districts to explore in Porto, here are some of my favourites:

Ribeira

This place is pure magic. With its narrow winding streets, colourful houses, and lively atmosphere, Ribeira is the heart of Porto. It’s perfect for leisurely strolls, enjoying the city’s vibrant street life, and indulging in local delicacies at its many bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Baixa

The city’s central hub, Baixa boasts a grid-like street layout and elegant buildings. You’ll find Porto’s most famous landmarks here, including the iconic Clérigos Tower and the exquisite São Bento Train Station.

Boavista

A more contemporary part of the city, Boavista is buzzing with cultural excitement and trendy shopping and dining options. Be sure to explore the Casa da Música, a major cultural center, and the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art.

Foz

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Foz is a beach lover’s paradise. With its gorgeous beaches and picturesque promenade, it’s a top spot for swimming, surfing, or just unwinding by the sea.

Cedofeita

Steeped in history, Cedofeita is one of Porto’s oldest districts. It’s celebrated for its traditional architecture, street art, and a multitude of independent boutiques and shops. Perfect for a bit of cultural exploration

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO

TOREL 1884 SUITES & APARTMENTS

This is my favourite by far! If you’re seeking a luxurious and unforgettable stay in Porto, Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments is the perfect choice. 300 m from Sao Bento Metro Station, this boutique hotel offers a range of beautifully designed suites and apartments, each with its own unique character. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and a lovely rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.

CASA DO CATIVO

Casa do Cativo is a guest house in Porto, featuring airy rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, and a terrace. It is conveniently located just 300 meters from the city centre and 400 meters from Sao Bento Metro Station.

TOREL AVANTGARDE

Torel Avantgarde, a 5-star boutique gem right in the heart of Porto. The hotel is a masterpiece of art and design, winning awards for its unique and cultural charm. It’s got everything you need, from an outdoor pool, a city-view terrace, a fitness centre, and a peaceful garden. The famous Clérigos Tower is a mere 7-minute stroll away, and you can reach the enchanting Ribeira area just 500 meters from the doorstep. And the best part? It’s all at a reasonable price for a 5-star experience.

ROSA ET AL TOWNHOUSE

Rosa Et Al Townhouse in central Porto is a special place. The hotel is famous for its one-of-a-kind design, mixing vintage and modern styles. You’ll find a comfy living room, a lovely outdoor terrace, a garden, and a library to enjoy.

They serve gourmet meals made from their organic produce, and you can grab coffee, snacks, and light meals all day long.

Located in a creative and vibrant neighbourhood, this townhouse is surrounded by galleries, artists’ studios, and an array of unique shops, making it an artistic haven that’s sure to inspire your exploration.

Plus, they offer car and bicycle rentals if you want to explore the city!

WHERE TO EAT IN PORTO

TIA TIA

Modern locally sourced food, natural wines and speciality coffee. A cosy, intimate restaurant that delivers delicious and bold flavours, which are beautifully presented.

TABERNA DOS MERCADORES

Taberna dos Mercadores is a super charming and intimate place, tucked away in a little alleyway. The restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and features a variety of traditional dishes, such as seafood stews, grilled meats and seafood. This place is extremely popular and booking in advance is necessary! We tried our luck many times and finally managed to get a table.

ATREVO

Atrevo is a restaurant situated on a quiet cobbled street in the Bonfim district, away from the tourist crowds. It provides a unique dining experience with its tasting menus and is exclusively open for dinner. The restaurant offers two tasting menus, featuring five or eight courses, which combine traditional and contemporary Portuguese cuisine to deliver a distinct culinary experience!

This eight-part menu is priced at €70 per person, with an extra €35 if you want wine pairing. Five moments will cost you €50 per person, with an addition of €27.50 for wine pairing.

MISTU

Mitsu is a super chick, airy space, filled with plants, large windows and high ceilings.

The menu is innovative and delicious. Flavours from Asia and South America come to the table with a hint of Portuguese. Chef Rui Mingatos seduces the plate with a mix of sensations to explore! You will not be disappointed here.

ESQUINA DO AVESSO

Esquina Do Avesso is a must whilst in Porto. The restaurant is known for its creative and contemporary cuisine that blends traditional Portuguese flavours with modern twists.

They also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, such as their “Vegetarian Tasting Menu”.

In addition to the food, Esquina do Avesso has a delicious array of Portuguese wines.

GRUTA

Hidden away, off the main street and in the heart of Porto, you have Gruta. It’s a cosy and minimalist Michelin-starred restaurant that specialises in all thing’s seafood. We opted for the fish moqueca and the homemade ravioli, which were equally delicious.

Adega São Nicolau

If you’re looking for an authentic Portuguese dining experience in Porto, Adega São Nicolau is a must-visit. This traditional restaurant in the historic Ribeira district. Their menu features classic dishes, fresh seafood, meats, and local produce. Make sure to try their garlic prawns and fish, which are cooked to perfection and served in generous portions. To top it off, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Douro River form their terrace.

casa de chá da boa nova

Located in Matosinhos along the stunning coastline, you’ll discover Casa de Chá da Boa Nova. A seafood gem designed by the renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers not only incredible ocean views but also a unique dining experience that blends modern Portuguese cuisine with the beauty of nature and architectural elegance.

Época Porto

This is a great brunch spot. The menu rolls with the seasons, offering a variety of healthy and flavourful dishes. The freshly baked sourdough breads every morning is a bonus!

15 TOP DISCOVERIES IN PORTO

1- ADMIRE THE AZULEJOS TILES

In Porto, you’ll find beautiful “azulejos” tiles adorning various locations throughout the city. These hand-painted ceramic tiles can be spotted on several notable structures, including:

São Bento Railway Station – São Bento Train Station in Porto is Portugal’s most beautiful train station. It opened in 1916, and its stunning tile work started five years later. Despite its plain exterior, the real beauty is inside.
Igreja de santo ildefonso – Constructed in 1739, this church boasts a stunning façade adorned with azulejo tile work. Situated in Praca de Batalha, this Baroque-style design is bound to captivate your attention.
Igreja do Carmo- Another well-known spot to discover the finest Porto mosaic tiles is Igreja do Carmo. This azulejos-covered church dates back to the late 18th century and is one of the best examples of the architectural style.
Capela Das Almas – Also known as the chapel of souls, which is covered top to bottom with Azure tiles. Defiantly worth a visit!

2-Taste port wine

Porto is the birthplace of port wine, and there are many places to taste this famous fortified wine.

Taylor’s Port Lodge is one of the oldest and most renowned port wine houses in Porto, offering tastings and tours of their cellars.

If you want to try port wine but would prefer a relaxed setting without a tour, I recommend Taberna Do Largo. It’s a tavern and grocery store that offers a variety of port wines, cheese boards, and traditional Portuguese tapas. Along with wine tastings, in a charming and ideal setting.

3- Visit the Museu de Serralves art gallery

Museu de Serralves is a modern and contemporary art museum in Porto, housed in a beautiful Art Deco building within the lush Serralves Park. The museum’s collection showcases works by influential artists, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Jeff Koons.

Don’t miss the Treetop Walk at Serralves, an elevated path winding through the park’s trees, providing breathtaking views of the lush greenery and the city beyond.

4- Discover Ribeira’s Pastel Palette

Cais da Ribeira, is a charming and historic neighbourhood, along the picturesque Douro River. As one of the city’s oldest quarters, it enchants with its narrow streets, beautiful architecture painted in soft pastel hues, and its bustling, lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink, indulge in Porto’s traditional cuisine, or simply soak in the local atmosphere.

5- COFFEE WITH A VIEW

My Coffee Porto is a hidden gem that treats you to breathtaking views of the Douro River and Porto. They specialise in coffee sourced from local roasters, with fresh roasts every month. In addition to their exceptional coffee, they offer a variety of wine, port wine, delicious pastries, and snacks. It’s the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the views.

6-VISIT THE MERCADO DO BOLHAO MARKET

Mercado do Bolhão is a vibrant and bustling marketplace housed in a spacious three-story building. Here, you’ll discover a diverse array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and other local goods.

Wander through the stalls, engage with the friendly vendors, and immerse yourself in the genuine and lively atmosphere. This is an essential stop for anyone keen on savouring the lively spirit and local flavours of Porto!

7- ADMIRE THE SUNSET FROM DOM LUIS I BRIDGE

The Dom Luis I Bridge is a well-known landmark in Porto and is considered one of the most iconic structures in the city. The bridge spans the Douro River and provides stunning views of Porto and the surrounding area.

8-WITNESS THE LIVELY RIBEIRA SQUARE

Ribeira Square is a historic and vibrant square along the Douro River. With its lively atmosphere and bustling energy, it’s a hub of activity. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, dine at a riverside restaurant, or simply soak in the vibrant essence of Porto.

9- TAKE A STROLL THROUGH JARDIM DO MORRO Park

The park provides a tranquil haven within the city, featuring abundant greenery and shaded walkways. It’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy beautiful vistas of both the city and the Douro River.

10-CLIMB THE CLÉRIGOS TOWER

The Clérigos Tower, a historic treasure at the heart of Porto, offering breathtaking city views. Climbing its 225 steps rewards you with a panoramic view of the city, the meandering River Douro, and the rolling hills in the distance. This iconic symbol of Porto is a must-visit for those who seek a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.

Just steps away, you’ll find Base Bar, a relaxed open-air spot nestled near Clérigos Tower. It features floor cushions and low tables, creating an ideal setting to enjoy a drink while basking in the afternoon sun.

11- VISIT THE LIVARIA LELLO BOOKSTORE

This historic bookstore is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, you will be amazed by its beautiful interior, including its ornate wooden shelves, stained glass windows, and grand central staircase. In addition to its architectural beauty, Livraria Lello is also a treasure trove of books that is sure to satisfy any book lover.

Make sure to visit early as it can get excessively crowded!

12- TAKE IN THE SCENERY FROM MIRADOURO DA VITÓRIA

The Miradouro da Vitória is a hidden gem in Porto, known for its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking panoramic views over the city.

13-Vila Nova de Gaia – Best for wine lovers

Vila Nova de Gaia, situated on the southern bank of the Douro River, offers beautiful views of Porto on the opposite shore. This district is a wine lover’s paradise, housing historic port wine cellars, where you can savour exquisite vintages and uncover the history of vineyards.

I had the pleasure of visiting Sandeman, which has been crafting exceptional port wines since its founding in 1790. The winery is instantly recognisable thanks to its famous logo, featuring the silhouette of a caped figure known as “The Don.” It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Portugal’s port wines.

14-SHOP AT PORTO BELO MARKET

Experience the vibrant and popular Porto Belo Market, which takes place every Saturday. This eclectic market is tucked between the captivating neighbourhood of Cedofeita and conveniently located near many top city attractions. It offers a diverse array of stalls where you can browse through a wide variety of vintage and handmade items, as well as organic products such as olive oil, teas, and jams. Immerse yourself in the local ambiance, bask in the warm sun, and take the time to relax while experiencing the unique culture of the area!

Aduela Bar is a lively spot close to the area and popular among the locals. It’s situated in a charming square where you can enjoy a drink. When we visited, there was live music, featuring a saxophone player, which added to the atmosphere.

15-EXPLore wineries beyond porto

Quinta da Pacheca: Known for its exceptional Port and Douro wines. Unique feature: Stay in a charming wine barrel accommodation with picturesque vineyard views! The estate offers a wide range of food and wine experiences, including guided tours of their vineyard and cellar, as well as wine tastings in their tasting room.

In the week of October 25th to 29th, you can participate in the harvesting process and taste the olive oils.

Quinta do Crasto: Offers an unforgettable wine experience. This renowned winery in Portugal’s beautiful Douro Valley is famous for its delicious Douro wines and the surroundings are just gorgeous. You can stroll through scenic vineyards and enjoy wine tastings. The winery has an inviting infinity pool and stunning lake views!

Quinta da Roêda: For an authentic vineyard experience, visit Croft’s famous estate, Quinta da Roêda, located in Pinhão, at the heart of the Douro Valley. Explore our range of experiences, including Port wine tastings, vineyard tours, picnics, workshops, and more

Quinta da Casa Amarela: Only an Hour from Porto! The historic house has been beautifully renovated by famous designer Paulo Lobo. Surrounded by beautiful vineyards, it offers four suites, an outdoor pool, dining and lovely gardens.

Quinta da Salada: Located in Lamego, features a seasonal outdoor pool and convenient parking. Several units boast personal terraces with stunning mountain views. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can enjoy activities like cycling, fishing, and hiking. They also offer bicycle rentals for your convenience!