Nestled in the north of Portugal, Oporto is ideal for travelers looking to escape the chill of winter while exploring one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. Thanks to its location along the Atlantic Coast, the weather in Oporto is sunny virtually year-round, making it the perfect destination for some fun and sun no matter the season.
Moreover, the region is also famous for its excellent wine vineyards and charming atmosphere along with deep historical roots. If you want to know what to do and see in Oporto, look no further for everything you need to tick off your bucket list.
From taking boat rides on the Douro river at sunset to exploring golden-sand beaches along the coast, Oporto has a plethora of activities for all manner of interests. Want to make the most of your time in Portugal’s former capital? Vamos lá!
The Legend
Oporto (known as Porto in Portuguese) is one of the oldest cities in Europe and the second biggest in Portugal after the capital of Lisbon. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the city's roots stretch back several centuries to when the area was inhabited by the Celts as early as the Bronze Age in the 8th century BC. From that point, the region was eventually occupied by the Romans in the 1st century BC, where it developed into a significant trading port between what would end up being the cities of Lisbon and Braga.
Despite passing hands from the Romans to the Visigoths between the 4th-5th centuries AD and ultimately being conquered by the Moors in the 8th century AD, Porto was nearly abandoned. What had once been an important commercial port under the reign of the Visigoths fell into ruin and decay as it became a border town of the Arabic Caliphate.
In the 9th century AD, the tides would turn again, however, when the region was recaptured by Asturian knights from northern Spain. Massive walls were built to further protect the city, cementing its importance in Iberian history as it was renamed Portucale.
Still, the peace wouldn’t last since the city was once again invaded in the 10th century by both the Vikings from Scandinavia to the Moors from Northern Africa, assaults that resulted in the main cathedral being destroyed. The city wouldn’t go on to recover until the 12th century but, from the 14th century onward, it would become of the most prominent ports on the European continent. It became even more prominent in the 17th and 18th centuries for its famous Port wines and, an invasion by Napoleon in the 19th century notwithstanding, the city would continue to bloom.
These days Porto is the second biggest city in the nation and is renowned for its gorgeous scenery, friendly locals, tasty cuisine, fantastic year-round weather as well as its sweet Port wine readily available from a plethora of vineyards. Its historical influence can never be forgotten due to the country bearing its namesake (Portugal derives from Portus Cale, the city’s original moniker).
Things to Do and Sights to See in Oporto
Porto is a lively city with much for travelers to do regardless of the season, whether visitors are more interested in cultural immersion or taking advantage of the exciting nightlife. Tourists should plan to spend at least two to four days fully explore all Porto has to offer since there’s a lot to do without having to rush around. Read on for the best things to see and do in Porto:
Wander the Ribeira District
This charming neighborhood is nestled in the heart of Porto near all the top monuments and attractions and right next to the Douro River. Made up of a labyrinth of winding cobbled streets and colorful, 18th-century buildings emblematic of Portuguese culture, the Ribeira District is a must-see for first-time visitors to Porto. Some iconic landmarks in the area include Praça da Ribeira, the Statue of Vímara Peres, Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto in Portuguese), Clérigos Church and Tower, Sāo Joāo National Theatre, Sāo Bento Railway Station, and Livraria Lello & Irmāo (one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe).
The area is also aboudning with viewpoints to fully appreciate the mesmerizing scenery such as Miradouro das Fontainhas, Miradouro da Rua das Aldas and Miradouro da Vitória. For history buffs, there are also several churches to explore in the area such as Monument Church of St Francis, Igreja e Torre dos Clerigos, Igreja Paroquial de Santo Ildefonso and Igreja do Carmo as well as the World of Discoveries. Natural lovers can plan a picnic in either Jardim da Cordoaria or Jardim Marques de Oliveira while art aficionados should venture to MASA and the Portuguese Center of Photography. Stop in at Mercado Ferreira Borges or Mercado do Bolhāo for some tasty morsels to replenish your energy before strolling across either Ponte de Dom Luis I or Ponte Infante Dom Henrique for a panoramic view of the Douro River.
Book a wine tasting
You can’t travel to Porto without booking a wine tasting to sip on the local specialty and thankfully you’ll have plenty of packages to choose from. Whether you prefer a simple wine cellar tour followed by a tasting of different wines or you don’t mind splurging on an all-day tour through the Douro Valley, there’s no lack of options for every price point. Establishments in the city center such as Poças Wine Cellar and Cálem Wine Cellar provide hour-long tours of their facilities before offering their guests a sampling of the best regional wines. You can even upgrade to a fado show (traditional Portuguese folk music) if you really want a taste of more native flavor.
Alternatively, you can also try a guided walking tour of the greatest port wines in the immediate area or go for a combined food and wine tour to nibble and slurp on the best that Porto’s gastronomic scene has at hand. If you have the time, you can also reserve a half-day tour that will take you around the different vineyards sprinkled throughout the Douro Valley and typically include a lot more tastings (prepare to get day-drunk!) Some tour packages even come with a river cruise down the Douro River as well as lunch, and you can even book a private tour for just you and yours if you’re feeling inclined. Saúde!
BONUS TIP: If you don’t mind crossing the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia is home to copious wine cellars with unique tasting experiences complemented by artisanal cheeses, chocolate bonbons, and expert sommeliers. Look into Caves Ferreira, Caves Graham’s, and Caves Burmester (which features its own museum) for a truly unforgettable experience.
Take a boat ride along the Douro River
There’s no better feeling that the breeze blowing through your hair as you’re being whisked out onto the open sea on a sunny day. Better yet, you could take a similar cruise at sunset for a more romantic escapade. Several charter companies extend everything from private to group tours with a guide to explain the significance of the landmarks as they pass by in the distance.
Take in the glory of the shining Douro River around you while your boat passes beneath Porto’s famed six bridges, each with its own detailed history and background. Some such overpasses include Ponte da Arrábida (whose six-year construction project ended in 1963), Ponte de Dom Luis I (the longest of its type in the world after its erection in 1886), and Ponte Infante Dom Henrique (named after Prince Henry the Navigator). Prepare to be amazed as you sail out into the Atlantic Ocean and back. Boa viagem!
Discover the beauty of Palácio da Bolsa
This outstanding feat of Neoclassical architecture deserves its own entry on the list as one of Porto’s most emblematic buildings. Construction on the former Stock Exchange Palace began in 1842 when it rose from the ashes of St Francis Convent which burned down in 1841 after a military siege on the city. St Francis Church, the adjacent building, was thankfully spared from the blaze and the ruins of the convent were donated by Queen Mary II to the local merchants who desired to build the seat of the Commercial Association. Designed by Porto native architect Joaquim da Costa Lima Júnior, the majority of the ** structure was completed by 1850 although the interior decoration took several artists to finish until 1910.
Declared as a National Monument in 1982 and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are plenty of reasons that the palace has remained as relevant as the day it was conceived. Meander through the central courtyard and its cornucopia of rooms such as the Golden Room, the Assembly Room, and the Tribunal Room, all of which house decorations from renowned local artists. Take in the furnishings by José Marques da Silva, the vivid paintings by both José Maria Veloso Salgado and João Marques de Oliveira as well as sculptures by Teixeira Lopes along with many other artworks. However, you can’t miss out on the Arab Room (completed in 1880 by Gonçalves e Sousa) whose décor was influenced by the Moorish Revival style. Now mostly used to host major events, the
BONUS TIP: At the back of the central courtyard (Nations’ Courtyard), spot a decadent staircase built by Gonçalves e Sousa and adorned by sculptures from renowned artists Antonio Soares dos Reis and António Teixeira Lopes.
Mosey over the Foz District
Travelers seeking a laidback atmosphere complimented with riverside boardwalks and untainted beaches should head toward the mouth of the Douro River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Perched just a few kilometers to the west of Porto’s city center, the Foz district is the perfect escape if you want more to do in the area. Take a surf lesson, walk along the romantic Pérgola da Foz promenade, ride a bike through the historic Foz Velha neighborhood or visit Felgueiras lighthouse; there’s an overabundance of things to do!
The Foz District also has some of the best beaches near Porto, like Praia dos Ingleses which has some sturdy rocks from which you can get some nice pictures of the landscape. Praia das Pastoras is a good option for tourists who’d like to see the exact point where the waters from the Douro River and the Atlantic meet. Either way, this vibrant area has many things to enjoy that are worth a gander and, at only a half-hour away via public transportation, you owe it to yourself to get out there.
Explore the Douro Valley
If you’re a fan of breathtaking landscapes, spectacular hiking opportunities, and remarkable gastronomy, you should get to know the lush valley around Porto. While you can always discover the Douro Valley on a wine tour of the area, there are several other booze-free options to get to know the verdant surroundings. Besides Porto, there are quite a few quaint towns scattered across the hilly terrain along with some of the world’s oldest vineyards.
Lamego is arguably one of the prettiest towns in the north of Portugal whereas Peso da Régua is home to the Douro Museum, which recounts the region’s long-lived roots in wine production. The Douro Valley also encompasses several landmarks of note, like Numão Castle, Douro Natural Park, Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Shrine and Vale do Coa Archaelogical Park. If you’re able to rent a car, most of these are easily reachable within an hour so you can be sure to delve deeper into the local lore.
Plan a day trip to Braga or Guimarāes
Even though Porto is completely charming on its own, both Braga and Guimarães are a must-visit for travelers who happen to have a car. The former is about 60 kilometers to the northeast of Porto and is considered one of the religious centers within Portugal. The first cathedral in the country was constructed in Braga in 1089 and was the seat of Pedro de Braga, the nation’s first bishop. The famous pilgrimage route, Camino de Santiago, passes through Braga and there are several cultural centers like Bom Jesus Sanctuary, Cathedral Treasure Museum, and Braga Municipal Stadium.
Guimarães is just as culturally significant since it was once regarded as the cradle of Portugal. It was the hometown of Portugal’s first king, Alfonso Henriques, and boasts a delightful medieval vibe. There are plenty of stunning monuments to visit such as Padrão do Salado (14th-century arched porch), Paços Municipais (town hall), Paço dos Duques de Bragança (the palace of the Dukes of Bragança); this list wouldn’t even begin to do them all justice! Organize a day trip to either towns or both to really make your trip to Porto unforgettable.
Head over to the beach
Porto is located in Costa Verde which has kilometers of rocky coastline as well as pristine beaches. Some resort towns like Vila do Conde should be high on your list although travelers looking to get away from the summer crowds should head to beach towns like Espinho and Francelos. The largest beach in the area is Praia de Matosinhos which hosts many activities on its sandy shores in the summer.
However, travelers chasing Blue Flag-certified beaches are better off venturing to Praia de Fuzelhas, another sandy stretch just past Leça da Palmeira (another beach just across the harbor from Matosinhos). Praia do Molhe in the Foz District might be the best bet for travelers without cars since reachable via public transportation but, with the abundance of beaches in the area, you’ll certainly be spoiled for choice.
Where to Eat in Oporto
Foodies traveling to Porto should be delighted to hear that its gastronomic scene is just as prolific as its nightlife. From cafes whipping up the tastiest local pastries to 5-star restaurants serving the best locally-sourced ingredients, there’s no shortage of dining options for those looking to expand their palette. Besides culinary specialties, many of these businesses also ply some of the most appetizing wines in the region so you can also expect to drink up plenty.
Tastiest tapas: Tapabento S. Bento
This tapas bar specializes in bite-sized international fare from all four corners of the globe with a charming local feel. Their menu features a wide selection from seafood platters to slow-cooked roasts so there’s bound to be something for everyone. Try any of their enchanting desserts for the perfect cap off to the meal.
Address: Rua da Madeira, 222
Best traditional cuisine: Casa Guedes Tradicional
This establishment is a local favorite thanks to its delectable fare and affordable prices. Founded by the Correia brothers in 1987, the franchise has only grown from there as its reputation continues to precede itself, landing the restaurant a feature in Time Out magazine. Check out the new location to see appreciate the progress made while still marveling at their old-school recipes.
Address: Praça dos Poveiros, 130
Best seafood dishes: Bacalhau
Seafood lovers should look no further than this gem, situated on the historical street known for its ties to Porto’s fishing lineage. With a view of the Douro River, this is the ideal restaurant to sample some of the most mouth-watering fish dishes in the area. Pair your order with some white wine for the best compliment to your meal.
Address: Muro dos Bacalhoeiros, 154
Best soul food: The Ribs
For gourmands craving savory meat dishes, this laid-back restaurant should be right up your alley. Considered a true beef restaurant, this establishment excels in serving its esteemed clientele with the best cuts lovingly cooked to perfection. If you’re lucky, you might just be in town for their monthly DJ jam and mixology bar, too.
Address: Rua do Comércio do Porto, 203
Best no-thrills café: Voltaria
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in Porto that won’t break the budget, this eatery should be your top pick. Its quaint setting might be unassuming but its menu selection packs a wallop, offering everything from tapas to seafood dishes to tempting desserts. You’ll only regret not heading there a bit sooner.
Address: Rua Afonso Martins Alho, 109
Where to Drink in Oporto
The nightlife in Porto is thumping year-round, particularly any evening after Thursday when the bar district is teeming with party-goers. The area around Rua da Galeria de Paris (aka Bar Street) in the city center is brimming with tons of bars and pubs for every budget and drink preference so wander around to see what calls you. Whether you prefer homemade brews to nigh-end cocktails, you’re sure to quench your thirst.
Most lively atmosphere: Bonaparte Downtown
Arguably the most famous pub in Porto, this Irish-influenced establishment was actually founded by a German, meaning it knows how to serve a mean draft beer. Alternatively, you can order cider or a local wine to help wash down your pub fare. You might even get treated to a nice Irish shanty while enjoying your pint of Guinness if the crowd feels moved.
Address: Praça Guilherme Gomes Fernandes, 40
Best bar for gin-lovers: The Gin Club
This chic bar specializes in gin cocktails, each concoction even more creative than the last. Enjoy your drink on the outdoor terrace or sit inside to truly appreciate the posh décor. If you’re a fan of gin and tonics with a twist, this is just the spot for you.
Address: Rua de Cândido dos Reis, 70
Best craft beer: Catraio
This bar is a must for fanatics of craft beers since they have a plethora of crafts from all over the world served from a set of rotating taps. The establishment also features a craft beer shop in case you would like to take some bottles to go as souvenirs. No matter if you prefer lagers, stouts, or IPAs, you’ll find your perfect brew.
Address: Rua de Cedofeita, 256
Best gastropub: Vermuteria da Baixa
Craving to try some Portuguese-Spanish fusion? Head over to this bar to pair a glass of their homemade vermouth with some queijada (a sweet milk tart), Bask in the cozy environment while sampling their delicious charcuterie; you’re sure to be as enchanted as you are pleased.
Address: Rua Candido dos Reis, 126
Most animated bar: Bar Pherrugem
If you’re a fan of live music, stop into this bar near the weekend to rock out like a legend. With the deconstructed walls and wood bar, you’ll feel like you’re in a genuine dive bar from the cheap drinks to the thumping atmosphere. Just make sure to get there early if you want to snag a seat!
Address: Rua das Oliveiras, 83
Final Thoughts
Porto is filled with lots of charm and magic, offering its visitors a whole bunch to do while boasting some excellent restaurants as well as engaging nightlife. Stay in either the Ribeira District or the Baixa District since they’re both close to the city’s top sights like Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookshops in the city (and also where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write Harry Potter).
While in town, you should also order a francesinha, a local dish similar to a Croque Monsieur (so basically a delicious sandwich covered in sauce and melted cheese). Eateries such as Francesinha Café should be high on your list if you’re tempted to try since the delectable dish originated right in Porto.
Come for the sunshine and port wine but stay for the food! Your palette will be happy you did.
May you get lost in the wonder,
M