Best 20 things to do in Porto, Portugal

Embark on a sensational expedition to Porto - the city known for its charming mixture of the old and the new, and of course, its knack for providing endless delights for the wanderlust-stricken. Start your adventure by indulging in the local cuisine, where you'll discover that francesinhas have truly mastered the art of a delicious food coma. Don't forget to marvel at the breathtaking views from the top of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which offers both a stunning backdrop for your Instagram feed and a thrilling endurance test for those with a slight fear of heights.

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1. Clerigos Tower

4.5 (10547)

R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Clerigos Tower in charming Porto, where the architectural marvels meet cardio workout! Prepare to channel your inner Hercules as you climb the endless spiral staircase that seems to have been crafted by a mischievous architect who played Tetris a bit too much. Your huffing and puffing will be rewarded with panoramic views of Porto's captivating rooftops, making you feel like you've earned a history degree right then and there. If you ever wondered what the lovechild of a church and a lighthouse would look like, Clerigos Tower has got you covered. This towering beacon of divinity might not guide ships across treacherous seas, but it will certainly make your Instagram feed sail high with envy-inducing snapshots. Just remember to watch your head as you enter—I'm still convinced it was designed for an incredibly fashionable species of giraffes. Once you conquer the vertical maze of stairs that the tower proudly presents as its main attraction, take a moment to appreciate the fact that you are now standing hundreds of meters above ground-level… and probably several levels above your personal fitness goal. But hey, at least you can brag about it to your gym buddies, and if they don't believe you, show them the countless sweaty selfies you took along the way.

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2. Torre dos Clerigos

4.5 (10547)

R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to the Torre dos Clérigos in the vibrant city of Porto, where your stair climbing skills will be put to the test! Prepare for a calf-burning adventure as you ascend the never-ending spiral staircase to catch breathtaking city views from the top. Don’t worry about losing your way though, as the cramped passageways give the illusion of being trapped in a medieval maze – just remember to pack your sense of direction (and maybe a few snacks)! Once you've conquered the dizzying heights, don't forget to reward yourself with a pat on the back and a moment of appreciation for the marvelous view. As you gaze upon the red rooftops and meandering alleys below, you might even spot a brave bird soaring nearby, wondering how on earth you made it to the pinnacle faster than him. After you've taken all the Instagram-worthy photos, brace yourself for the equally entertaining—albeit slightly terrifying—descent. The narrow staircase and throngs of visitors coming from every direction provide an excellent opportunity to test your agility and dodging skills. Remember, whoever said traveling isn't a sport clearly hasn't visited the Torre dos Clérigos!

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3. Casa da Musica

4.6 (16382)

Av. da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Casa da Musica, Porto's very own music paradise! This architectural marvel resembles a spaceship that crash-landed right in the heart of the city - so prepare to be transported to another world of musical extravaganza. With its undulating curves and dazzling glass façade, this place will make you question whether you've accidentally stumbled into a concert hall or the set of a sci-fi movie. Embrace the weirdness, sit back, and let the music take you on a delightful rollercoaster ride through time and melodies.

www.casadamusica.com

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4. Majestic Cafe

4.2 (17998)

R. de Santa Catarina 112, 4000-442 Porto, Portugal

Nestled in the heart of Porto, the Majestic Cafe awaits adventurers hungry for more than just delicious pastries. With its opulent Art Nouveau decor, this charming establishment transports visitors back in time, to an era where mustaches were waxed to perfection and bowler hats were ubiquitous. Whether you're sipping a velvety espresso while pretending to be a tortured artist or simply admiring the ornate chandeliers while plotting your next escape from reality, Majestic Cafe promises an experience as extravagant as the bill they hand you when you're done.

www.cafemajestic.com

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5. Port Wine Tasting Tours

5 (33)

Rua das Andresas 324 H43, 4100-051 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Porto, the enchanting city of bridges and barrels! If you're a fan of sweet nectar and good times, don't miss the chance to embark on a Port Wine Tasting Tour. Prepare to explore ancient wine cellars, play sniffing games with wine connoisseurs, and discover the joy of sipping your way through the city's liquid treasures. Be warned, though: you might leave with a craving for velvety flavors and a new appreciation for the art of stumbling gracefully through cobblestone streets.

labportugaltours.com

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6. Taylor's Port Wine Cellars

4.4 (1805)

Rua do Choupelo 250, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Welcome to Taylor's Port Wine Cellars, where you can find barrels of joy and a wine experience that will rock your tastebuds. Nestled in the heart of Porto, this iconic winery pays homage to the ancient art of winemaking while enticing you with their delicious potions. Prepare to indulge in luscious wines that flow smoother than a samba dancer and discover why Taylor's is a grape escape worth raising a glass to!

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7. Stock Exchange Palace

4.4 (2926)

R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Stock Exchange Palace in Porto, where money talks and architecture whispers sweet nothings into your visually stimulated soul. Step into this grand palace and prepare to be dazzled by the opulent Neoclassical style that screams, "Hey, I'm fancy, but I promise not to judge your mismatched socks!" Marvel at the intricate details, like the exquisitely carved wooden staircase that practically beckons you to practice your royal descent.

www.palaciodabolsa.pt

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8. Sao Francisco Church Catacombs

4.4 (6986)

Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 4050-297 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to the Sao Francisco Church Catacombs in Porto, where history awaits with open arms, and a few skeletons too! Descend into this underground treasure trove and prepare for a bone-afide experience that will tickle your funny bone, without actually harming it. Marvel at the macabre beauty of this hidden gem, where the past comes alive (quite literally) in a way that will make your spine tingle with delight.

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9. Palacio da Bolsa

4.4 (2926)

R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to the Palacio da Bolsa in Porto, where unassuming travelers morph into a bunch of architectural admirers, weeping in awe at its sheer beauty. This striking palace, built by the merchants of yesteryears, will make you question all your efforts to beautify your humble abode. Prepare to feel an overwhelming urge to redecorate your entire home with golden accents and lavish chandeliers, only to realize your budget brings you closer to a shining disco ball from a garage sale. Step inside this palace, and you'll be astounded by the opulent and exquisitely decorated Arabian Saloon, where every inch screams, "Wealthy merchies had exquisite taste!" Marvel at the intricate beauty of the painted ceilings, where angels and cherubs compete to see who could look more mysteriously creepy. Just don't be startled if one of them appears to wink at you – it's not a supernatural occurrence but rather the builders' little joke to keep you on your toes. Oh, and let's not forget to mention the breathtakingly grand Assembly Room, a space that will give you serious palace envy, even if you're usually content with your cozy one-bedroom apartment. This neoclassical marvel will make you question your life choices – "Should I have studied architecture instead of accounting?" you'll ponder, as you bravely strike a pose in front of its towering columns. Just remember not to channel your inner Tarzan and swing from them – the staff doesn't appreciate hooligans, no matter how inspired you may feel.

www.palaciodabolsa.pt

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10. Church of Sao Francisco

4.4 (6986)

Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 4050-297 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to the Church of Sao Francisco in Porto, where opulence and frugality seem to have had a spirited argument and decided to share the same roof! Marvel at the flamboyant, gilded Baroque architecture that can make even the most budget-conscious traveler contemplate a career change into gold plating. But don't let it fool you—inside hides a somber and eerily beautiful catacomb, showcasing the ultimate "I'm minimalist" statement made by the Dominican monks. It's like a home renovation show on steroids, where the goal was to remove every single piece of nonessential decor, except human bones.

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11. Crystal Palace Gardens

4.6 (34304)

R. de Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto, Portugal

Nestled in the heart of Porto, Crystal Palace Gardens is a whimsical wonderland that will leave you wondering if you've accidentally stumbled into a fairytale. With its lush greenery and enchanting pathways, this is the perfect place to pretend you're in a quintessential romance novel, or just escape from the reality of never-ending adult responsibilities. So, grab a picnic blanket, a bottle of wine, and prepare to be whisked away into a land where the only schedule to worry about is the opening hours of the nearby gelato shop.

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12. Dom Luis I Bridge

4.8 (68428)

Pte. Luiz I, 4000 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Porto, where the Dom Luis I Bridge stands tall and proud, almost like a giant steel spider web, daring you to cross from one side to the other. This architectural marvel connects the bustling Ribeira district to the charming Vila Nova de Gaia, giving you the perfect excuse to work off those extra pastel de nata calories. So, grab your camera and your sense of adventure, because this bridge is not just for commerce and transport—it's for the brave souls who don't mind a little trembling while they take in the breathtaking views of the Douro River.

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13. Porto City Park

4.7 (24756)

Estrada Interior da Circunvalação, 4100-083 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Porto City Park, the perfect place to escape from the chaos of the city, unless, of course, you find yourself surrounded by geese that only have a vendetta against human feet. Take a leisurely stroll through the luscious green gardens, where you can marvel at trees that are older than your grandmother's grudges and benches that have witnessed more awkward first dates than any rom-com movie. Oh, and don't forget to bring a picnic, as you may end up being the main course for a group of hungry squirrels who have a taste for adventure tourists.

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14. Ribeira

Ribeira, Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Ribeira, the charming neighborhood in Porto that is like a cross between a medieval fairytale and a hipster time-warp. Get ready to embark on a journey of cobblestone chaos, where rusty boats gracefully bob on the Douro River and street musicians serenade you with Portugal's greatest hits (minus those catchy Eurovision ones). Don't forget to treat your taste buds to the famous francesinhas, the ultimate test of your courage and cholesterol levels.

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15. Casa do Infante

4.4 (357)

R. da Alfândega 10, 4050-029 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Casa do Infante, the charming historical building in Porto that will transport you back in time, without the need for a sketchy time machine. As you enter, prepare to be greeted by friendly staff who are more than happy to answer your questions, as long as they're not about the intricate details of quantum physics. Wander through the various rooms and corridors, and take a moment to appreciate the incredible architecture and decor, just be careful not to mistake the exit for the entrance, causing a minor panic among fellow visitors.

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16. Porto Cathedral

4.5 (24838)

Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal

If you appreciate a little medieval charm mixed with stunning architectural splendor, then Porto Cathedral is the place to be. Step into a world where gargoyles seem to wink mischievously at passers-by and old stone walls whisper tales of epic battles. As you wander through this majestic cathedral, keep an eye out for the resident ghost - legend has it that he loves photobombing unsuspecting tourists and has quite the sense of humor!

www.diocese-porto.pt

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17. Foz do Douro

Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Foz do Douro, the posh neighborhood of Porto where the river kisses the ocean! Here, the air is filled with a delicious blend of sea breeze and the sophisticated aroma of fancy people sipping on their impeccable port wine. Stroll along the bustling promenade, where magnificent mansions line the streets like penguins in tuxedos, casually showing off their well-heeled inhabitants to all passersby.

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18. Serralves Museum

4.4 (5443)

R. Dom João de Castro 210, 4150-417 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Serralves Museum, a delightful haven for art enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike in charming Porto! This architectural gem boasts a harmonious blend of modern and contemporary art, leaving visitors feeling like they've fallen into Alice's rabbit hole, only to be surrounded by playful sculptures and mind-bending installations at every turn. The museum's whimsical atmosphere offers a well-deserved break from reality - I mean, who needs reality when you can dive into a world of artistic wonders, right?

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19. Livraria Lello

4.1 (53550)

R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Livraria Lello, the enchanting haven for bookworms and those who appreciate stunning architecture in the delightful city of Porto. Known as "the library that inspired Hogwarts," this historic gem will transport you to a world of literary magic and wonder. Prepare to be charmed by its ornate spiral staircase, where even the most nimble-footed visitors may feel an uncontrollable urge to yell "Wingardium Leviosa!"

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20. Sao Bento Train Station

4.7 (3528)

Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto, Portugal

Welcome to the bustling Sao Bento Train Station in Porto, where time stands still (or at least it feels that way when waiting for your delayed train). Marvel at the grandeur of this architectural gem, which looks more like a palace than a mere train station (Prince Charming not included). Be prepared to navigate through the maze of commuters rushing to catch their trains, like contestants scrambling to win a game show (only with less confetti and more ticket inspectors).

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Porto, Portugal by plane is to fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) which is located about 11 kilometers northwest of the city center. Major airlines like TAP Portugal, Ryanair, and EasyJet operate direct flights to Porto from major cities in Europe and beyond.

Car

Driving is also a popular way to get to Porto with the A1 highway connecting Lisbon and Porto. The road trip takes about 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Portuguese countryside.

Train

Travelers can also reach Porto by train with its main train station being Campanhã Station, which is located about 5 kilometers east of the city. Trains from Lisbon to Porto are convenient and provide scenic views, but travel time can be up to 3 hours depending on the train you take.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Porto, travelers can arrive at nearby towns such as Vila Nova de Gaia and Matosinhos by boat. These towns have marinas and are just a short distance from Porto via public transport. The closest international cruise port is in Lisbon and travelers can take a train, bus or car to Porto from there.

Bus

Travelers who want to reach Porto by bus can take the Rede Expressos bus service which operates throughout Portugal. The trip from Lisbon to Porto takes about 3.5 hours and buses from other major cities in Portugal also operate regular routes to Porto.

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A Fun-Filled Family Adventure in Enchanting Porto

Porto, Portugal offers a delightful and enriching family-friendly trip. From its picturesque streets to the iconic Douro River, the city has a myriad of attractions suitable for all ages. Explore historic landmarks like the Porto Cathedral, enjoy a peaceful boat cruise along the river, and indulge in the world-famous local cuisine for a memorable family adventure.

Porto: A Day Trip for Romance & Adventure

A trip to Porto, Portugal for a romantic getaway is an excellent choice for any couple looking for a beautiful and peaceful escape. Take a stroll through the stunning medieval streets, visit the breathtaking beaches and enjoy the historic architecture and vibrant nightlife. Immerse yourself in the world-renowned port wine culture and indulge in the local delicacies with your loved one.

Budget-Friendly Fun: Exploring Porto in a Day

Travelers can explore the charming city of Porto, Portugal on a limited budget by staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses. The city offers a plethora of free or low-cost activities, including visiting the historic Ribeira district or wandering through the stunning gardens at Serralves Museum. Food and drink can also be enjoyed for a reasonable price at local markets or cafes, where traditional Portuguese cuisine is always on the menu.

A Dreamy 3-Day Getaway to Porto, Portugal

A romantic trip to Porto, Portugal offers a perfect blend of cultural, artistic and romantic experience. The city is full of historic buildings, meandering cobblestone streets, and charming old-world cafes where couples can enjoy candlelight dinners. The scenic Douro river, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and world-renowned Port wine wineries add to the allure of a romantic getaway to Porto.