I am so excited to show you my favorite city in Portugal with my selection of the best things to do in Porto.
Plus, to save you time, I have curated for you the different options of Porto tours (walking, city and wine tasting).
This way you can become more intimate with this soulful city!
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Best travel guide I have ever read!
Silvian about ZIgZag
In this article, no ads, no sponsored posts. Just some affiliate links.
If you purchase through them, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (Disclosure).
Why visit Porto?
Is Porto worth visiting?
Yes. Porto is a vibrant city with a lot of soul and history.
No wonder why it made it on the Unesco World Heritage list. Simply walking the streets is fascinating. And I am in love with the Dom Luis Bridge I. I know I am exaggerating a little bit. But this is not the Port wine talking!
Its old center is mesmerizing with colorful old houses and a unique atmosphere by the river.
There is so much you can see and do. I am excited to show you my 40 curated places and activities.
Virtual visit - video
Below is a short video to get an overview of Porto:
Visiting Porto - Map overview
Here is a very simple map to help you understand the layout of Porto:
How to get around Porto
- Walking
Porto has a lot of hills, but you can visit the historical center on foot. Just wear good and comfortable footwear.
- The Hop-on Hop-off bus
Stops are next to all the great places to see and best views without wasting time in between. The main loop is not too long.
Plus, there are a river cruise and a wine tasting tour included, as well as a second loop that takes you all the way to the beaches and forts.
I don't recommend the Hop-on Hop-off bus in every city. I think for example it is a waste of money in Lisbon. But in Porto is was really great!
Get your Hop-on Hop-Off Bus ticket
- Taxi
They can be found everywhere. They can take you to your next stop much faster than the bus.
- Car
I don't recommend driving while staying in Porto. Renting a car is great to explore the country. But once in the city, parking can be a nightmare.
Need to rent a car in Portugal?
or directly see the best deals on my favorite platform
#1 to 8 - Best things to do in Porto - enjoy the best views
The old town of Porto is one of the most scenic towns I have seen.
Therefore, in my opinion, the best things to do are simply to walk around and enjoy the various viewpoints.
The bridge allows you different perspective of these colorful and historical buildings.
#1 - Walking around the river
One of my favorite activities in Porto is to just stroll by the Douro river on both sides and to cross the Dom Luis Bridge. The views are fantastic from every angle!
#2 - Serra do Pilar
In Vila Nova de Gaia, walk up to the Serra do Pilar Monastery. It can be visited. But the best part is the view from the park around (photo above). It was one of my favorite views of Porto.
#3 - Cable Car - Teleferico de Gaia
This cable car rise is a short trip but definitively a fun thing to do.
From the cable car, you get extensive views of the town across the river.
It takes you to Miradouro do Teleferico and Jardim do Moro.
#4 - Cross the lower bridge on foot
Right at the beginning of Dom Luis I Bridge on the lower section, you can enjoy a closer view at the historical river front.
#5 - Cross the upper bridge on foot
And if you don't suffer from vertigo, you can also appreciate the view from the top section of the bridge.
It is not that bad and well worth the walk. Even if you only enjoy the beginning and turn around quickly.
#6 - From the Sé cathedral square
From here, you can enjoy a closer look at the orange roofs and some of the buildings.
#7 - Watch the sunset from the bridge
From the bridge you can look over the river towards the West. Perfect for sunsets!
#8 - Hop on a cruise
Another way to get a different perspective of a city is from the water.
If you have a hop-on hop-off bus ticket, a tour is included
If you did not, you can book a special cruise in one of the traditional boats.
During the 50min you will discover the many bridges above the Douro River and learn more about the history of Porto.
#9 to 18 - What to see in Porto
#9 - Sé do Porto Cathedral
I think the Se cathedral was one of my favorite locations and one of the best things to do in Porto.
It is situated at the end of the Upper platform of the bridge. Even if you don't have time to visit, you should go to the esplanade in front of it to admire the view.
It is one of the oldest monuments in Porto. Started in the 12th century, it was finished in the 13th.
Altered during the Baroque era, you can see many heavily decorated chapels inside. Turn around and don’t miss the organ.
#10 - The cloister and chapter house
If you have time, enter the 13th century cathedral and pay to visit the beautiful cloister with many azulejos tiles and the surprising ceiling of the Chapter House.
One of my favorite visits in Portugal.
#11 - Carmo Church
This building is actually 2 different churches.
On the left, with the bell tower, is the Carmelite Church, built in the first half of the 17th century. It is a mix of classic and Baroque styles.
On the right is the Carmo church built in the 18th century.
Notice:
- The particularity of the 2 churches and the differences in façades
- The 1 meter-wide house in the middle is there because of a law that stated that no 2 churches could share a wall.
- The Azulejos tiles on the side of the Carmo church
- The rich interior of both churches with Baroque and rococo styles
- The white ceiling of the Carmelite Church
- The difference in atmosphere in both churches
Avoid mass times to be able to look at the décor details.
#12 - Lello Bookstore
Open since 1906, the library is a fascinating building with a neo-gothic façade.
Inside are beautiful wood and glass decors like entering another world!
If you are a Harry Potter fan, the twisted staircase in the middle of the shop is said to have inspired JK Rowling.
Just buy an entrance ticket across the road before heading to the door, and admire the fascinating decor.
#13 - Clerigos Tower
The Clerigos Tower dominates the Skyline of Porto. Built in the mid 18th century in Baroque style, its height reaches 75m (246ft).
At the top is a viewing platform to admire the roofs of Porto.
And adjacent are the church and museum in the House of Brotherhood.
Website
#14 - St Francis Church
A little bit hidden by the side of the Bolsa Palace, the St Francis church (Sao Francisco) dates back to the 14th and 15th century.
It is very austere from the outside but once inside, you realize that every inch is covered in baroque decors with gold. Estimations vary between 100 and 300kg of gold used.
No photos allowed inside for visitors.
#15 - Bolsa Palace
In the lower part of Porto stands the Bolsa Palace. Not my favorite location, but I am listing it because it would be a nice visit for many people.
The building is neo-classic, and some rooms offer unique decors with Arabic influence.
#16 - Serra do Pillar Monastery
I wrote about the view at Serro da Pillar, one of the most impressive in Porto.
You can combine with a visit to the monastery with its church and cloister (and a circular plan!).
#17 - Old town
And just walk around the old town of Porto.
Locals still live there, and the atmosphere is so unique!
#18 - Visit one of the Porto Caves in Gaia
But the main attractions of Nova Gaia are all the Porto wine caves.
Across the river from Porto is the city called Vila Nova de Gaia or Gaia. It is famous for its cellars where the Port Wine is stored and aged.
There are so many. And all with a title (LOL): the oldest, the biggest, the oldest in the same family etc etc.
If you don't know which one to visit, the Hop-on Hop-off bus includes a ticket with a visit to one of the caves. Their choice of partner may change overtime.
When I was there, I visited the Cockburn cave and had a really good time.
There was a great atmosphere, the staff were really nice, and my dad was happy with the tasting (I don't drink).
#19 to 23 - Porto Beaches, seafront & forts
When tired of the city sights, the seafront is just 20 minutes away by bus.
There is a long walk from Castelo do Queijo to Fortaleza de São João da Foz, which allows you to enjoy the fresh air and views of the beaches and their rock formations.
#19 - Forte de Sao Francisco Xavier (Castelo do Queijo)
At one end, enjoy the open views of the Castelo do Queijo (literally castle of the cheese) built in the 17th century.
You can enter the fort, get to the top and appreciate its strategic location and cannons.
#20 - Praia de Matosinhos
North of the fort is the long beach Praia de Matosinhos.
It is made of fine sand.
#21 - The Porto Seafront Promenade
All along a you walk South, you can enjoy the promenade.
You will see small sandy coves, rocks and restaurants.
In a short time, you will walk past:
- Praia do Homem do Lene
- Praia do Molhe
- Pria do Gondarem
- Praia dos Ingles
#22 - Praia do Carneiro & lighthouse Felgeuiras
As you reach the mouth of the Douro River, the main beach is Praia do Carneiro with a mix of sand and rocks.
You have views of the dikes and small lighthouse.
#23 - Forte de Sao Jao Baptista
At the other end where the river mouth is, stands the São João Baptista fort from the 16th century.
A citadel on the remains of a fortified abbey.
#24 to 27 - Best places to visit in Porto - the museums
#24 - Museum of Vinho do Porto
To learn more about Port wine
see official website
#25 - Casa do Infante
In the Ribeira neighborhood by the water.
You can visit the House of the Prince
Enjoy the historical building, customs Houses, archives, ….
#26 - Museu do Carro Electrico
if you are a big fan of trams
see official website
#27 - Saores do Reis
if you want to learn more about Portuguese art.
Oldest museum in Porto about the evolution of Portuguese art from 18th to 20th century
and more museums about war, art, puppets...
And keep track of your own trip!
#28 to 36 - Porto tours and activities + unique experiences
There are the 'classic' Porto Tours where you learn about the history of the city and its general architecture.
But you might be interested in one specific aspect of Porto, and I have found original tours of Porto for you.
#28 - Best of Porto city tours
Porto has so much history, that I think a guided tour is a fantastic idea to discover the city. This will help you have another perspective on what you are seeing.
You can enjoy:
- a walking tour - see program and availability
- a bike tour - see program and availability
- a Segway tour - see program and availability
#29 - Porto Wine Tasting Tours
A classic in Porto is a wine tasting tour.
if you want a more in-depth experience than just visiting a cave, opt of a dedicated Porto Wine tasting tour.
There are not that many ways to organize a wine tasting Tour, so they are all similar. They take you to 2 or 3 cellars for visits and tasting.
And if you are looking for a very UNIQUE experience with wine in Porto, you can also enjoy a bath in wine!!! Intrigued? Read this article about the Porto wine spa by Travel Bliss now, to learn more about Vinothérapie®.
#30 - Porto Tiles Tours
This is a tour I wish I had done. The Azulejos tiles are everywhere and are stunning. I would have really loved to learn more about their history and fabrication.
This 3-hour walking tour will take you to some of the best displays in the city, as well as the museum and some depots and stores.
Check out program and availability
#31 - Porto History Tour
Want to learn more about how Porto resisted the attacks of Napoleon and the French soldiers? And the rest of the fascinating history of Porto? This could be a great option.
See details and availability
#32 - Porto Street Art Tour
Discover the work of local and foreign artists on the walls of Porto. This is a great way to discover off the beaten path Porto, away from the tourists
#33 - Fado and Night lights Tour of Porto
Porto is beautiful during the day, but it is also sparkling during the night!
Plus you can enjoy a Fado experience.
See details and availability
#34 - Porto Football Tour
Football fan? This tour takes you to the FC Porto Museum and Stadium
#35 - Porto Food Tour
Porto has a great food culture.
There are these small eateries with set menus which are very tasty and offer a great atmosphere.
Want to learn more about gastronomy in Porto and Portugal?
Join one of the many food tours focusing on:
- Coffee, pastries, cheese, sausage, wine, olive oils, spices... You might be an expert by the end of the tour LOL - see program and availability
- the Tascas (the local pubs) where locals meet to eat and discuss - see program and availability
#36 - Cooking Class
And finally, another idea is to learn to cook Portuguese specialties with a workshop-lunch!
See details and availability
or learn to cook the traditional Pastel de Nata - see details and availability.
#37 to 40 - Best day trips from Porto - Douro Valley and Beyond
Porto is a good base to explore the North of Portugal.
You can book guided day trips or rent a car to explore on your own and see more.
Need to rent a car in Portugal?
or directly see the best deals on my favorite platform
#37 - Douro Valley tour from Porto
A great classic is to head East along the Douro River.
Many viewpoints offer views of the river and the wineries and the slopes.
Most wineries can be visited.
This is a popular place in Portugal. There are many Douro Valley day trips available from Porto. Here are 3 different options:
- A tour focusing on wine tasting with the visit of two different vineyards to compare and satisfy your taste buds -
Check out program and book - A tour focusing more on visits and history of the region... but still with tasting
Check out program and book - A private tour to adapt to your preferences and allow you to stop when you are inspired by the view
Check out program and book
#38 - Braga and Guimaraes
Discover stunning historical landmarks and buildings during this tour.
It will take you to:
- Old town of Braga: the cathedral, the archbishop palace and the many museums
- Incredible zigzag Baroque staircase at Bom Jesus do Monte (see my photos)
- The Historic Center of Guimaraes, a Unesco site, with the castle and the Ducal palace
#39 - Penada Geres National Park
Often overlooked, this park is absolutely splendid and gives you a nice break in nature.
Highlights include
#40 - Aveiro (the Venice of Portugal)
For a town completely different from Porto, head South to Aveiro and its canals.
Highlights include:
All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, map of location and planning info) in my travel guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Portugal road trip:
Plan your ideal road trip around Portugal
- 13 easy-to-plan Maps
- 120+ pre-selected scenic locations
- Planning tips to make the most of your time
- 200+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
1, 2 or 3 days in Porto itineraries
1 day in Porto
If I had only one day, I would:
- Start at the Serra do Pillar viewpoint
- Walk across the upper bridge
- Visit the Cathedral and its chapter house
- Walk around the old town down to the riveira
- Enjoy a boat tour
- Cross the lower bridge
- Visit one of the wine caves
2 days in Porto
Day 1 -
- start at the Serra do Pillar viewpoint
- Walk across the upper bridge
- Visit the Cathedral and its chapter house
- Walk around the old town down to the riveira
- Enjoy a boat tour
- Cross the lower bridge
- Visit one of the wine caves
Day 2 -
- Spend the morning visiting the Carmo church and Lello bookstore and that area
- Enjoy the seafront walk and forts in the afternoon
3 days in Porto
Day 1 -
- start at the Serra do Pillar viewpoint
- Walk across the upper bridge
- Visit the Cathedral and its chapter house
- Walk around the old town down to the riveira
- Enjoy a boat tour
- Cross the lower bridge
- Visit one of the wine caves
Day 2 -
- Spend the morning visiting the Carmo church and Lello bookstore and that area
- Enjoy the seafront walk and forts in the afternoon
Day 3 -
- Option 1- visit some museums or join a guided tour to better understand the town
- Option 2 - take a day tour either to the Douro Valley (if you like wine) or to Braga and Guimaraes (if you enjoy history and beautiful buildings)
Where to stay in Porto
While you enjoy the best Porto has to offer, you might need a place to stay.
Here are some suggestions I have collected for you.
Where I Stayed
I stayed in a really great apartment perfectly located called Go2oporto Apartment rentals. They have a several rentals.
The same rental agency also has amazing rentals on Booking.com with a direct view on the Douro River:
- Check out the photos and prices for the [email protected]a apartments
- Check out the photos and prices for the Go2oporto River apartments
- Check out the photos and prices for the Go2oporto River front apartment
Best places to stay in Porto - other suggestions
- Luxury
Located along the Douro River, the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel is established in a 16th century building - history, heritage and style
Check out photos and book - Boutique hotel
Right in the heart of the Ribeira, the Descobertas Boutique Hotel is decorated with a lot of taste and provides a fantastic breakfast
Check out photos and book - Good value for money
Porto de Rio is centrally located by the Douro River and the studios have really nice design
Check out photos and book - Hostel
Only 50m from the Clerigos Tower, the Yes! Porto Hostel has a very friendly staff and great facilities
Check out photos and book
How to get to Porto
By Plane
The Porto airport is quite active and there are many flights to arrive directly in the capital of North Portugal.
To facilitate your arrival, you can book you private transfer right now.
And, if your budget is tighter, no worries. You can also book a shared transfer.
By Train
Porto is easily accessible from Lisbon by Train.
It will take you between 2h35 and 3h depending on the train.
You can check times and book your seat on Rail Europe.
By Car
One of the best way to visit a country is on a road trip - So rent a car and explore more of Portugal.
Or just drive from Lisbon to Porto on the Motorway. It will take you 3 hours.
You can compare rental prices on discovercars.com
By day trip from Lisbon
Not really.
It is a 3 hours drive in each direction.
So that would not be worth it to drive 6 hours just to have 3 to 4 hours in the town.
FAQs
How many days in Porto is enough?
2 days is the bare minimum to enjoy all that Porto has to offer.
3 days would be better and longer if you want to explore the region.
Can you do Porto in 2 days?
Yes, you can enjoy a lot in 2 days and see the main highlights the town has to offer.
But of course, it will only be a snapshot.
Is Porto or Lisbon better?
The town cities are extremely different.
My preference goes to Porto because of its soul.
But it depends on what you are looking for.
Check out my detailed comparison article: Porto vs Lisbon
Is Porto safe at night?
Like in any cities, there are better neighborhoods than others.
The old center is overall safe. Just stay in well-lit areas.
Want to see more of the best Portugal has to offer?
- 30 Most beautiful landscapes in Portugal - read article
- Best things to do in Portugal - read article
- The best beaches in Portugal - read article
- The best villages in Portugal - read article
- Lisbon vs Porto - where to go? - read article
- Driving in Portugal - read article
- The best of the Algarve region - read article
- The highlights of Sintra and the Sintra-Cascais Nature park - read article
Planning a trip to Portugal?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Plan your ideal road trip around Portugal
- 13 easy-to-plan Maps
- 120+ pre-selected scenic locations
- Planning tips to make the most of your time
- 200+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
Want to see more of PORTUGAL?
Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!
Thank you Claire.. This was very informative and helpful. I am planning a trip to Porto, this Fall and really want to make the most of my 6 days there;
experience the culture, and the people, and take some day trips.
Thanks. I am glad you are finding it useful.
I wish you a wonderful trip!