The 14 BEST things to do in Porto, Portugal

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Porto, Portugal!

Welcome to the ultimate guide for the 14 best things to do in Porto, Portugal! Are you ready to fall in love with this charming city? From its stunning architecture and delicious food, to its lively atmosphere and rich cultural history, Porto has something for everyone.

Atmosphere / Vibes

As soon as you arrive in Porto, you’ll be struck by the city’s laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. The locals, known as “tripeiros,” are known for their friendly and hospitable nature, and they’ll make you feel right at home. The city itself is brimming with energy and life. Its winding streets and narrow alleys are filled with colorful houses, historic buildings, and lively cafes and bars. There’s always something going on in Porto, whether it’s a lively street festival, a traditional fado performance, or a lively game of futebol.

Weather throughout the year

One of the best things about Porto is its mild and temperate climate. The weather is generally pleasant throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s in the winter to the mid 70s in the summer. The spring and fall are particularly lovely, with warm days and cool nights. And even on the rare occasions when it does rain, the showers are usually short-lived and give way to sunny skies. So no matter when you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Porto has to offer without worrying about extreme weather conditions.

Why Porto, Portugal is the best place to be

There are so many reasons why Porto, Portugal is the best place to be. For starters, it’s a city with a rich cultural heritage and a long history. Its narrow streets and ancient buildings are a testament to its past, and there’s so much to explore and discover. But Porto is also a city that’s constantly evolving and reinventing itself. Its arts and music scenes are thriving, and there’s always something new and exciting happening. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, Porto has something for everyone.

Cost of Travel

One of the great things about Porto is that it’s an affordable destination, especially compared to other European cities. Accommodation, food, and transport are all relatively inexpensive, so you can enjoy all that the city has to offer without breaking the bank. And with so much to see and do, you’ll get great value for your money. From stunning beaches and historic landmarks, to delicious food and lively nightlife, Porto has something for every budget and every interest.

Top 14 best things to do in Porto, Portugal

1. Visit the iconic Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its ornate interior and sweeping staircase will transport you to a different time and place.
2. Take a stroll along the Douro River and soak up the stunning views of the city. Make sure to snap a photo of the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, which spans the river and connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia.
3. Sample the local port wine at one of the many port wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. The region is famous for its delicious port wine, and there are plenty of opportunities to try it for yourself and learn about its production process.
4. Explore the historic São Francisco Church, a beautiful example of Portuguese Baroque architecture. Its ornate interior is covered in gold leaf and features an impressive collection of frescoes and stained glass windows.
5. Take a walk through the Ribeira district, a historic neighborhood filled with narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively bars and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the delicious local seafood dishes, like francesinha and caldo verde.
6. Visit the Palácio da Bolsa, a stunning 19th-century palace that now serves as a conference and exhibition center. Its opulent interior is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and history.
7. Take a trip out to the beaches of Foz do Douro and Matosinhos. These beautiful stretches of coastline are perfect for a day of relaxation and soaking up the sun.
8. Go on a boat tour of the Douro River and see the city from a different perspective. You’ll get to see the city’s iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes from the water.
9. Visit the Serralves Museum, an impressive modern and contemporary art museum located in a beautiful Art Deco building. It’s home to a wide range of exhibitions and installations, as well as a stunning garden and park.
10. Explore the historic Porto Cathedral, a beautiful Romanesque cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. Its impressive interior is filled with ancient stone carvings and frescoes.
11. Take a trip to the Crystal Palace Gardens, a beautiful park located on a hill overlooking the city. Its picturesque setting is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.
12. Visit the Casa da Música, a modern concert hall that hosts a wide range of musical performances and events. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in music and architecture.
13. Go on a food tour and taste your way through Porto’s delicious culinary scene. From traditional Portuguese dishes to innovative modern cuisine, there’s something for every taste and budget.
14. Take a trip out to the Douro Valley and explore the region’s stunning landscapes and picturesque vineyards. You’ll get to try some of the region’s famous wines and learn about their production process.

Conclusion

As you can see, Porto, Portugal is a city that has something for everyone. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food make it a must-visit destination. And with its affordable prices and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. So pack your bags and head to Porto for an unforgettable adventure!

Have you thought about staying in Porto for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Porto

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Portugal, such as Évora, Sintra or Faro.