Our Favourite Things About Porto
Porto, Portugal is a captivating city, with plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re into food, wine, history or just enjoying the beautiful scenery, Porto has got you covered. We love summer in Porto because it’s a delicious mix of culture, a great vibe & sooo much sunshine! Portugal is known for its super friendly people, delicious and diverse cuisine, vibrant nightlife & beautiful nearby beaches. It’s the perfect place to eat, drink & relax!
Here are 10 things you should definitely check out while you're in Porto:
Get lost in the Ribeira district: This charming neighborhood has narrow, winding streets and beautiful views of the Douro River. You’ll find great shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Admire the Portuguese tiles at Igreja do Carmo: This historic church is a beautiful example of the Portuguese Baroque style, with its intricate blue and white tilework.
Climb the Torre dos Clérigos: This tower offers an amazing view of the city and is a symbol of Porto that you can’t miss.
Take a boat tour of the Douro River: A boat tour is a great way to see Porto from a different angle, with beautiful views of the city and its bridges.
Visit the Lello Bookstore: This historic bookstore is a must-visit spot for book lovers, with its grand staircase and beautiful details.
Take a Port wine tour: What’s a trip to Porto without some wine? The city is famous for its Port wine production, so make sure to take a tour of one of the many wineries and get a taste of the good stuff.
Relax on the beaches of Matosinhos: This beach destination is just a few kilometres from Porto and is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or trying some fresh seafood in one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Explore the gardens of the Serralves Museum: The museum is a must-see for contemporary art lovers, and the surrounding gardens are just as beautiful.
Explore the Peneda-Gerês National Park: This nature lover’s paradise is just an hour and a half away from Porto and offers stunning scenery, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.
Top 5 foods to eat in Portugal
If you’re a foodie looking for an exciting culinary adventure, Porto, Portugal is a destination you won’t want to miss. This vibrant city is renowned for its gastronomy, which is a mix of traditional Portuguese cuisine and international flavors. Portugal is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by its history and proximity to the ocean. Porto’s food scene is a mix of traditional and modern flavors, and it’s a destination that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings. In recent years, Porto has also seen a boom in trendy new restaurants and cafes, many of which are focused on farm-to-table cuisine and innovative flavor combinations.
Bacalhau: Bacalhau, or salt cod, is one of the most popular dishes in Portugal. There are said to be over 365 ways to prepare it, one for each day of the year! Some popular ways to eat bacalhau include Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with onions, potatoes, and eggs) and Bacalhau com Natas (cod in a creamy white sauce).
Porto Wine: No visit to Porto would be complete without trying the city’s most famous export – port wine. The wine is made in the Douro Valley, just a short distance from Porto, and there are numerous wine cellars in the city where you can sample different varieties.
Frango Piri-Piri:This spicy grilled chicken is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a spicy Piri-Piri sauce (made from African bird’s eye chili peppers) and then grilled to perfection. It’s often served with french fries and a salad.
Cozido à Portuguesa:This hearty stew is a classic Portuguese dish, typically made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and sometimes even blood sausage. It’s often served with vegetables, such as carrots, cabbage, and potatoes, and is the perfect comfort food on a cold day.
Pastel de Nata: Also known as a Portuguese custard tart, this iconic dessert is a must-try in Portugal. The pastry is flaky and buttery, and the custard filling is sweet and creamy, with a hint of cinnamon and lemon.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about Porto, Portugal:
- Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, after Lisbon.
- The city is famous for its production of port wine, which is made exclusively in the Douro Valley region and aged in the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto.
- The historic center of Porto, which is home to many of the city’s top tourist attractions, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which spans the Douro River and connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel (who is best known for designing the Eiffel Tower in Paris).
- Porto is known for its lively street festivals, including the Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival) in June, which features live music, dancing, and fireworks.
- The Livraria Lello, a historic bookstore in Porto, is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s portrayal of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter series.
- The city is home to a number of beautiful churches, including the São Francisco Church, which features an elaborately decorated Baroque interior covered in gold leaf.
- The Casa da Música, a striking modern concert hall designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, is one of Porto’s most impressive contemporary landmarks.
The Festa de São João
The Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival) is one of Porto’s biggest and most popular street festivals, held annually on the night of June 23rd. The festival is a celebration of the city’s patron saint, Saint John the Baptist, and is marked by a variety of traditional activities and customs.
One of the most distinctive features of the Festa de São João is the use of plastic hammers to hit each other on the head. This tradition is said to have originated as a way for people to show their affection for one another, and it is now a ubiquitous part of the festival. In addition to the hammering, there are also processions, fireworks displays, music and dancing, and lots of food and drink.
One of the most popular foods during the festival is sardines, which are grilled and eaten fresh off the fire. People also drink “vinho verde,” a slightly sparkling green wine that is a specialty of the region.
The festivities culminate in a fireworks display over the Douro River at midnight, which is followed by even more dancing and partying into the early hours of the morning.
The Festa de São João is a joyful celebration of the city’s culture and traditions, and it attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience the lively atmosphere and sense of community that pervades the city during this time.
Nightlife
Porto’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes. The city’s main nightlife district is concentrated around the Galerias de Paris street, which is lined with trendy bars and restaurants. The area is especially popular with young people and students, and it can get quite lively on weekends. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the Ribeira district, where you’ll find plenty of traditional bars and taverns serving local wines and beers. One of the most unique nightlife experiences in Porto is the “Fado in Porto” shows, which showcase traditional Portuguese fado music and are often held in historic venues such as the Casa da Música or the Palácio da Bolsa.
Culture
Porto is a city with a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its stunning architecture, museums, and festivals. The historic center of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to many impressive landmarks. The city also has a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and concert halls showcasing local and international talent. One of the most important cultural events in Porto is the São João Festival, which is celebrated every year on June 23rd and features processions, fireworks, and lots of traditional food and drink. Overall, Porto is a city that is proud of its cultural identity and has a rich and diverse range of experiences to offer visitors.
Getting Around
Getting around Porto is relatively easy, with a variety of transportation options available. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines, which operate throughout the city and connect to the surrounding areas. The metro system is particularly useful for getting around quickly and efficiently, with six lines serving the city and surrounding suburbs.
For those who prefer to travel on foot, Porto is a very walkable city, with many of the main attractions located within easy walking distance of each other. The historic center of Porto, in particular, is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways that are best explored on foot.
Biking is also becoming an increasingly popular way to get around Porto, with many bike rental shops and dedicated bike lanes throughout the city. This can be a great way to see the city at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time.
Taxis are also readily available throughout the city, and are generally affordable and reliable. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also available in Porto.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Porto is a hilly city, with many steep streets and staircases. This can make getting around on foot or by bike more challenging, but it also means that there are many stunning viewpoints and vistas to be discovered throughout the city.
Overall, getting around Porto is fairly straightforward, with a range of transportation options to suit all needs and budgets. Whether you prefer to walk, take public transportation, or explore on two wheels, there are plenty of ways to discover all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Porto’s most Instagrammable spots:
Porto is a beautiful city with many picturesque locations that are perfect for Instagram. Here are my top 10 most instagrammable spots in Porto:
- Ribeira: This picturesque riverside neighborhood with colorful buildings and traditional boats is a must-visit in Porto. The view of the Douro River and Dom Luis I Bridge from here is stunning and makes for a great photo opportunity.
- Dom Luis I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge is an architectural marvel and offers incredible views of Porto and the Douro River. A photo from the bridge or a viewpoint overlooking it is a must for any Instagram feed.
- Livraria Lello: This historic bookstore, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, is a beautiful example of neo-gothic architecture. The interior is simply stunning and makes for a great Instagram shot.
- Miradouro da Vitória: This viewpoint is located in the historic district and offers a panoramic view of the city, including the Douro River, the Dom Luis I Bridge, and the historic center of Porto. It is a popular spot for Instagrammers.
- Clerigos Tower: This iconic tower is one of the tallest buildings in Porto and offers stunning views of the city. The tower’s intricate architecture also makes for a great Instagram shot.
- Porto Cathedral: This impressive Romanesque cathedral is a must-see in Porto. The cathedral’s imposing facade and interior make for great Instagram shots.
- Casa da Música: This contemporary music venue is an architectural marvel and a great spot for Instagram photos. The unique design and futuristic look of the building make for a great photo opportunity.
- Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: These beautiful gardens are located on a hill overlooking the Douro River and offer stunning views of the city. The gardens are also home to a stunning crystal palace, which is a great spot for Instagram photos.
- Foz do Douro: This seaside neighborhood offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for Instagram photos. The area is known for its beautiful beaches and colorful buildings.
- São Bento Station: This historic train station is known for its stunning blue and white tilework, which tells the story of Portugal’s history. The station’s interior is a great spot for Instagram photos.
Porto is a vibrant city that offers a lot of opportunities for artistic expression and creativity. Here are some artistic things to do in Porto, Portugal:
- Visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art: The Serralves Museum is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. The museum features works by renowned Portuguese and international artists and offers a range of temporary exhibitions and events.
- Explore the street art scene: Porto is home to a thriving street art scene, with murals and installations by both local and international artists. Take a walking tour to discover some of the best street art spots in the city.
- Check out the Galeria de Arte Urbana: This open-air gallery is dedicated to street art and features works by some of the most important artists in the scene. The gallery is located in the heart of Porto and is a great place to discover new and exciting art.
- Attend a performance at the Casa da Música: The Casa da Música is not only a beautiful building but also a renowned venue for music performances. Check out the calendar of events to find a concert that suits your tastes.
- Take a pottery class: Portugal is known for its beautiful ceramics and pottery, and Porto is home to many artisanal workshops where you can learn the art of pottery making. Take a class to create your own unique piece of pottery to take home as a souvenir.
- Attend a photography exhibition at the Centro Português de Fotografia: This museum is dedicated to photography and features exhibitions of both historical and contemporary works. Check out the calendar of events to find an exhibition that interests you.
- Take a dance class: Porto is home to many dance schools where you can learn a variety of styles, from traditional Portuguese dances to modern and contemporary dance.
- Attend a theater performance at the Teatro Nacional São João: This theater is one of the most important cultural institutions in Portugal and hosts a wide range of theater productions, from classical to contemporary plays.
- Take a cooking class: Portuguese cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and unique ingredients. Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare some of the country’s most famous dishes, such as bacalhau (codfish) or pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
Our Favourite Things About Porto
Porto, Portugal is a captivating city, with plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re into food, wine, history or just enjoying the beautiful scenery, Porto has got you covered. We love summer in Porto because it’s a delicious mix of culture, a great vibe & sooo much sunshine! Portugal is known for its super friendly people, delicious and diverse cuisine, vibrant nightlife & beautiful nearby beaches. It’s the perfect place to eat, drink & relax!
Here are 10 things you should definitely check out while you're in Porto:
Get lost in the Ribeira district: This charming neighborhood has narrow, winding streets and beautiful views of the Douro River. You’ll find great shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Admire the Portuguese tiles at Igreja do Carmo: This historic church is a beautiful example of the Portuguese Baroque style, with its intricate blue and white tilework.
Climb the Torre dos Clérigos: This tower offers an amazing view of the city and is a symbol of Porto that you can’t miss.
Take a boat tour of the Douro River: A boat tour is a great way to see Porto from a different angle, with beautiful views of the city and its bridges.
Visit the Lello Bookstore: This historic bookstore is a must-visit spot for book lovers, with its grand staircase and beautiful details.
Take a Port wine tour: What’s a trip to Porto without some wine? The city is famous for its Port wine production, so make sure to take a tour of one of the many wineries and get a taste of the good stuff.
Relax on the beaches of Matosinhos: This beach destination is just a few kilometres from Porto and is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or trying some fresh seafood in one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Explore the gardens of the Serralves Museum: The museum is a must-see for contemporary art lovers, and the surrounding gardens are just as beautiful.
Explore the Peneda-Gerês National Park: This nature lover’s paradise is just an hour and a half away from Porto and offers stunning scenery, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.
Top 5 foods to eat in Portugal
If you’re a foodie looking for an exciting culinary adventure, Porto, Portugal is a destination you won’t want to miss. This vibrant city is renowned for its gastronomy, which is a mix of traditional Portuguese cuisine and international flavors. Portugal is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by its history and proximity to the ocean. Porto’s food scene is a mix of traditional and modern flavors, and it’s a destination that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings. In recent years, Porto has also seen a boom in trendy new restaurants and cafes, many of which are focused on farm-to-table cuisine and innovative flavor combinations.
Bacalhau: Bacalhau, or salt cod, is one of the most popular dishes in Portugal. There are said to be over 365 ways to prepare it, one for each day of the year! Some popular ways to eat bacalhau include Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with onions, potatoes, and eggs) and Bacalhau com Natas (cod in a creamy white sauce).
Porto Wine: No visit to Porto would be complete without trying the city’s most famous export – port wine. The wine is made in the Douro Valley, just a short distance from Porto, and there are numerous wine cellars in the city where you can sample different varieties.
Frango Piri-Piri:This spicy grilled chicken is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a spicy Piri-Piri sauce (made from African bird’s eye chili peppers) and then grilled to perfection. It’s often served with french fries and a salad.
Cozido à Portuguesa:This hearty stew is a classic Portuguese dish, typically made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and sometimes even blood sausage. It’s often served with vegetables, such as carrots, cabbage, and potatoes, and is the perfect comfort food on a cold day.
Pastel de Nata: Also known as a Portuguese custard tart, this iconic dessert is a must-try in Portugal. The pastry is flaky and buttery, and the custard filling is sweet and creamy, with a hint of cinnamon and lemon.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about Porto, Portugal:
- Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, after Lisbon.
- The city is famous for its production of port wine, which is made exclusively in the Douro Valley region and aged in the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto.
- The historic center of Porto, which is home to many of the city’s top tourist attractions, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which spans the Douro River and connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel (who is best known for designing the Eiffel Tower in Paris).
- Porto is known for its lively street festivals, including the Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival) in June, which features live music, dancing, and fireworks.
- The Livraria Lello, a historic bookstore in Porto, is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s portrayal of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter series.
- The city is home to a number of beautiful churches, including the São Francisco Church, which features an elaborately decorated Baroque interior covered in gold leaf.
- The Casa da Música, a striking modern concert hall designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, is one of Porto’s most impressive contemporary landmarks.
The Festa de São João
The Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival) is one of Porto’s biggest and most popular street festivals, held annually on the night of June 23rd. The festival is a celebration of the city’s patron saint, Saint John the Baptist, and is marked by a variety of traditional activities and customs.
One of the most distinctive features of the Festa de São João is the use of plastic hammers to hit each other on the head. This tradition is said to have originated as a way for people to show their affection for one another, and it is now a ubiquitous part of the festival. In addition to the hammering, there are also processions, fireworks displays, music and dancing, and lots of food and drink.
One of the most popular foods during the festival is sardines, which are grilled and eaten fresh off the fire. People also drink “vinho verde,” a slightly sparkling green wine that is a specialty of the region.
The festivities culminate in a fireworks display over the Douro River at midnight, which is followed by even more dancing and partying into the early hours of the morning.
The Festa de São João is a joyful celebration of the city’s culture and traditions, and it attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience the lively atmosphere and sense of community that pervades the city during this time.
Nightlife
Porto’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes. The city’s main nightlife district is concentrated around the Galerias de Paris street, which is lined with trendy bars and restaurants. The area is especially popular with young people and students, and it can get quite lively on weekends. For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the Ribeira district, where you’ll find plenty of traditional bars and taverns serving local wines and beers. One of the most unique nightlife experiences in Porto is the “Fado in Porto” shows, which showcase traditional Portuguese fado music and are often held in historic venues such as the Casa da Música or the Palácio da Bolsa.
Culture
Porto is a city with a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its stunning architecture, museums, and festivals. The historic center of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to many impressive landmarks. The city also has a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and concert halls showcasing local and international talent. One of the most important cultural events in Porto is the São João Festival, which is celebrated every year on June 23rd and features processions, fireworks, and lots of traditional food and drink. Overall, Porto is a city that is proud of its cultural identity and has a rich and diverse range of experiences to offer visitors.
Getting Around
Getting around Porto is relatively easy, with a variety of transportation options available. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines, which operate throughout the city and connect to the surrounding areas. The metro system is particularly useful for getting around quickly and efficiently, with six lines serving the city and surrounding suburbs.
For those who prefer to travel on foot, Porto is a very walkable city, with many of the main attractions located within easy walking distance of each other. The historic center of Porto, in particular, is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways that are best explored on foot.
Biking is also becoming an increasingly popular way to get around Porto, with many bike rental shops and dedicated bike lanes throughout the city. This can be a great way to see the city at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time.
Taxis are also readily available throughout the city, and are generally affordable and reliable. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also available in Porto.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Porto is a hilly city, with many steep streets and staircases. This can make getting around on foot or by bike more challenging, but it also means that there are many stunning viewpoints and vistas to be discovered throughout the city.
Overall, getting around Porto is fairly straightforward, with a range of transportation options to suit all needs and budgets. Whether you prefer to walk, take public transportation, or explore on two wheels, there are plenty of ways to discover all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Porto’s most Instagrammable spots:
Porto is a beautiful city with many picturesque locations that are perfect for Instagram. Here are my top 10 most instagrammable spots in Porto:
- Ribeira: This picturesque riverside neighborhood with colorful buildings and traditional boats is a must-visit in Porto. The view of the Douro River and Dom Luis I Bridge from here is stunning and makes for a great photo opportunity.
- Dom Luis I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge is an architectural marvel and offers incredible views of Porto and the Douro River. A photo from the bridge or a viewpoint overlooking it is a must for any Instagram feed.
- Livraria Lello: This historic bookstore, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, is a beautiful example of neo-gothic architecture. The interior is simply stunning and makes for a great Instagram shot.
- Miradouro da Vitória: This viewpoint is located in the historic district and offers a panoramic view of the city, including the Douro River, the Dom Luis I Bridge, and the historic center of Porto. It is a popular spot for Instagrammers.
- Clerigos Tower: This iconic tower is one of the tallest buildings in Porto and offers stunning views of the city. The tower’s intricate architecture also makes for a great Instagram shot.
- Porto Cathedral: This impressive Romanesque cathedral is a must-see in Porto. The cathedral’s imposing facade and interior make for great Instagram shots.
- Casa da Música: This contemporary music venue is an architectural marvel and a great spot for Instagram photos. The unique design and futuristic look of the building make for a great photo opportunity.
- Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: These beautiful gardens are located on a hill overlooking the Douro River and offer stunning views of the city. The gardens are also home to a stunning crystal palace, which is a great spot for Instagram photos.
- Foz do Douro: This seaside neighborhood offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for Instagram photos. The area is known for its beautiful beaches and colorful buildings.
- São Bento Station: This historic train station is known for its stunning blue and white tilework, which tells the story of Portugal’s history. The station’s interior is a great spot for Instagram photos.
Porto is a vibrant city that offers a lot of opportunities for artistic expression and creativity. Here are some artistic things to do in Porto, Portugal:
- Visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art: The Serralves Museum is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. The museum features works by renowned Portuguese and international artists and offers a range of temporary exhibitions and events.
- Explore the street art scene: Porto is home to a thriving street art scene, with murals and installations by both local and international artists. Take a walking tour to discover some of the best street art spots in the city.
- Check out the Galeria de Arte Urbana: This open-air gallery is dedicated to street art and features works by some of the most important artists in the scene. The gallery is located in the heart of Porto and is a great place to discover new and exciting art.
- Attend a performance at the Casa da Música: The Casa da Música is not only a beautiful building but also a renowned venue for music performances. Check out the calendar of events to find a concert that suits your tastes.
- Take a pottery class: Portugal is known for its beautiful ceramics and pottery, and Porto is home to many artisanal workshops where you can learn the art of pottery making. Take a class to create your own unique piece of pottery to take home as a souvenir.
- Attend a photography exhibition at the Centro Português de Fotografia: This museum is dedicated to photography and features exhibitions of both historical and contemporary works. Check out the calendar of events to find an exhibition that interests you.
- Take a dance class: Porto is home to many dance schools where you can learn a variety of styles, from traditional Portuguese dances to modern and contemporary dance.
- Attend a theater performance at the Teatro Nacional São João: This theater is one of the most important cultural institutions in Portugal and hosts a wide range of theater productions, from classical to contemporary plays.
- Take a cooking class: Portuguese cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and unique ingredients. Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare some of the country’s most famous dishes, such as bacalhau (codfish) or pastéis de nata (custard tarts).