20 Things To Do In Porto

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1. Luis I Bridge

2 km from city center

Bridge

The Luís I Bridge, built in 1886, crosses the Douro River, linking Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Designed by Théophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, it has two levels—the top level for the metro and pedestrians, and the bottom level for cars and pedestrians. Walking across the bridge offers amazing views of Porto’s old town, the Douro River, and the port wine cellars in Gaia.

Great For Family Outing

1 km from city center

Garden & Park

Crystal Palace Gardens is a beautiful park in Porto offering panoramic views of the Douro River and the city skyline. It features winding paths, fountains, sculptures, and themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and Aromatic Garden. Visitors can stroll through lush greenery, spot peacocks roaming freely, and spot several viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Douro River, Arrábi (Read More)da Bridge, and Vila Nova de Gaia.

2 km from city center

Shopping Market

Bolhão Market is a historic open-air market dating back to 1914, known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Portuguese products. Recently renovated, the market features a mix of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies, along with artisan goods and specialty shops. Visitors can experience Porto’s authentic food culture, interact with local vendors, and sample regional fav (Read More)orites like pastel de nata and bacalhau. It is located in the city center, near Avenida dos Aliados.

2 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), located in the historic center of Porto, Portugal, is one of the city’s oldest and most significant landmarks. Built in the 12th century, it features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. Highlights include its fortress-like façade, cloisters adorned with azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles), and panoramic views of the city from its terrac (Read More)e. Inside, visitors can explore the grand nave, ornate chapels, and the silver altarpiece of St. John the Baptist.

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5. Jardim do Morro

3 km from city center

Garden & Park

Jardim do Morro, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Luís I Bridge, is a scenic hilltop park offering some of the best panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River. Designed as a public garden, it features green spaces, walking paths, and seating areas, making it a popular spot for relaxation and sunset watching. The park is easily accessible via the Gaia Cable Car or by foot from the br (Read More)idge, and often hosts outdoor events, live music, and street performances.

2 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

Chapel of Souls is one of Porto’s most visually striking churches, famous for its stunning azulejo tile-covered façade. Located on Rua de Santa Catarina, one of Porto’s busiest shopping streets, it one of the most photographed spots in Porto. The chapel's 15,947 blue-and-white tiles depict religious scenes in stunning detail and the inside features traditional Portuguese wooden altars and religio (Read More)us artwork.

7. Livraria Lello

Instagram Worthy

1 km from city center

Landmark

Livraria Lello is one of the world’s most stunning and historic bookstores, renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture, intricate wooden interiors, and grand spiral staircase. It is often linked to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, as the author lived in Porto and was reportedly inspired by its ornate interiors when creating the Hogwarts library and staircases. Due to its popularity, advance booki (Read More)ng is required for entry.

55 km from city center

Boating & Cruises

Douro River Cruise offers a breathtaking views of Porto, the Douro Valley, and beyond, passing through vineyard-covered hills, charming riverside villages, and historic landmarks. Major types of cruises include City Sightseeing Cruises, Day Cruises to the Douro Valley, Multi-Day Cruises, and Sunset & Dinner Cruises. These can be booked online, through local operators, or at the Porto waterfront (R (Read More)ibeira district). Options range from budget-friendly river taxis to luxury cruises with gourmet dining.

2 km from city center

Neighborhood

Ribeira, the most iconic district in Porto, is a UNESCO-listed historic neighborhood along the Douro River. Known for its colorful buildings, narrow medieval streets, and lively atmosphere, its riverside cafés, traditional restaurants, and stunning views of the Luís I Bridge are the main highlights. Praça da Ribeira is its main historic square surrounded by cafés and street performers. Several boa (Read More)t tours and cruises can be booked from Ribeira Waterfront. It also is a hub for nightlife.

2 km from city center

Landmark

Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos) is one of Porto’s most famous landmarks, offering panoramic views of the city from its 75-meter-high bell tower. The granite tower, part of the Clérigos Church, features intricate carvings, a grand staircase, and a 360-degree observation deck at the top. It is one of Porto’s top tourist attractions, drawing visitors eager to climb its 225 steps for incredible vi (Read More)stas of the city.

2 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

Church of Saint Francis is a remarkable blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture, renowned for its opulent gilded interiors and "Tree of Jesse" sculpture. Located in the historic Ribeira district, near the Palácio da Bolsa and a short walk from the Douro River, the church's underground catacombs house the remains of Franciscan monks and some of Porto's wealthiest families.

Shows & Theatres

Fado, Portugal’s most iconic musical tradition, is a deeply emotional and melancholic genre that expresses themes of love, nostalgia, and longing (known as saudade). While Fado originated in Lisbon, Porto has its own unique Fado scene and is often performed in a more intimate and raw manner, with influences from the rural traditions of Northern Portugal. These are held in small, candlelit venues w (Read More)hich can be clubs or wine cellars.

2 km from city center

Landmark

São Bento Railway Station is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, renowned for its stunning azulejo (blue-and-white tile) murals. Located near Avenida dos Aliados, the station serves as a major transport hub while also being an architectural masterpiece and a historic landmark. most striking features is its 20,000 azulejo tiles, hand-painted ceramic tiles which cover the main en (Read More)trance hall.

3 km from city center

Garden & Park

Parque de Serralves, spanning 18 hectares, is part of the Serralves Foundation, which includes the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, Serralves Villa, and various art installations spread throughout the park. It combines formal French-style gardens, wooded areas, and modern sculptures. It has several dining options , a gift shop, benches, picnic spots, and shaded areas .

2 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace), near the historic São Francisco Church, is renowned for its architectural splendor, particularly the Arab Room, a lavishly decorated hall inspired by the Alhambra in Granada, used for official receptions. Other notable features include the Pátio das Nações (Hall of Nations), crowned by a large metallic dome adorned with the coats of arms of Portugal and co (Read More)untries with which it had trade relations in the 19th century. Access to the Palácio da Bolsa is exclusively through guided tours, which last approximately 30 minutes.

Things To Do

Wine tours through Port Wine Cellars in Porto offers a deep dive into the rich history and production of Portugal's famed fortified wine. Situated across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, these cellars have been aging port wine for centuries. Guided tours typically last about an hour, culminating in a tasting session. Many cellars offer online reservations, although these tours can be booked o (Read More)nline or through local operators, as well.

Scenic Routes

Line 1 Historic Tram, also known as the Riverside Line, offers one of the most picturesque and nostalgic experiences in Porto. This vintage tram route runs parallel to the Douro River, offering uninterrupted views of Porto’s waterfront, traditional Rabelo boats, and Vila Nova de Gaia’s famous wine cellars. It’s one of the most scenic routes in the city, especially on sunny days or at sunset. It is (Read More) part of Porto’s oldest tram network, which dates back to the 19th century. A complete journey on Line 1 takes approximately 30 minutes.

55 km from city center

Things To Do

Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is situated east of Porto and stretches along the Douro River. Characterized by its steep, terraced vineyards, the region has been producing wine for over two millennia. Visitors can explore traditional quintas (wine estates), sample a variety of wines, and enjoy the serene beauty of the countryside. Numerous operators offer full-day tours from Porto, of (Read More)ten including transportation, guided winery visits, tastings, lunch, and sometimes a river cruise.

3 km from city center

Museum

Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, in Serralves Foundation and Serralves Park, boasts a valuable collection of contemporary art featuring both national and international artists from the 1960s onwards. It features a valuable collection of contemporary art from both national and international artists. The surrounding park offers walking paths, gardens, and outdoor sculptures.

2 km from city center

Viewpoint

The Miradouro da Vitória is a renowned viewpoint in Porto, located a short walk from prominent attractions like the Clérigos Tower and the Portuguese Centre of Photography. Although the area can appear a bit neglected, with dusty surroundings and proximity to an abandoned building, it is a favored spot for photography enthusiast.