Porto is a granite city of steep streets, blue-tiled churches and wide river views. It sits on the Douro, just before the river meets the Atlantic, and the old riverside district drops to the water in a jumble of colourful houses.
It is compact, hilly and a good deal more relaxed than its reputation suggests. A weekend is plenty, but it also rewards a longer stay if you like walking, eating and sitting by the river.
How many days: 2 to 3
Two days is enough for the old town, the riverside and a port cellar visit. Three days lets you slow down or add a trip up the river.
The Douro Valley is the classic day out. It is a wine region of terraced hills, reachable by train or on an organised trip. Check journey times before you book.
What to do in Porto
- Walk the Ribeira
- The old riverside district is the postcard view of Porto. Go early, when it is quieter, and wander the narrow lanes up from the water.
- Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge
- The double-deck iron bridge links the old town with the wine cellars on the opposite bank. Walk across for the view and take the upper deck for the best angle.
- Visit a port wine cellar
- The cellars are across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Many offer tours and tastings. Check the opening arrangements in advance.
- See São Bento station
- The main hall is covered in blue and white tiles showing scenes from Portuguese history. It is free to enter and worth a short stop.
- Go up the Clérigos Tower
- A baroque tower with views across the rooftops. Expect a climb and a queue.
- Take a Douro river trip
- A short boat trip under the bridges gives a different view of the city. Longer trips head up the valley.
- Ride the old tram
- Heritage trams run along the riverfront towards the sea. It is slow and scenic, and a good way to reach the coast without climbing the hills.
- See Livraria Lello
- A famous, ornate bookshop with a carved staircase. It uses an entry ticket and draws long queues, so go early or decide whether it is worth it for you.
- Walk the seafront at Foz
- Where the river meets the Atlantic, a promenade runs along the coast with beaches, small cafes and big skies. It is a good place to end a day.
What to eat and drink
- Francesinha
- A heavy sandwich of bread, ham, sausage and steak, covered in cheese and a spiced sauce. It is the city's famous dish, and not light.
- Pastel de nata
- The custard tart, found in bakeries across the city. Eat one warm with a coffee.
- Bacalhau
- Salt cod, cooked in many different ways. Ask what the house version is.
- Tripas à moda do Porto
- A tripe and bean stew, the traditional dish that gave Porto people their nickname. A local speciality, and a matter of taste.
- Port wine
- The fortified wine that takes its name from the city. Try white port with tonic as a summer aperitif.
- Grilled fish
- Simple grilled sardines and sea bream are good near the coast. Ask what is fresh.
- Coffee, the Porto way
- Locals ask for a 'cimbalino', the local word for an espresso. A coffee and a pastry at a neighbourhood cafe is a good way to rest between hills.
Getting around
Porto is built on steep hills, and the centre is best seen on foot. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as pavements can be slippery when wet.
The metro and the tram network are useful for the hills and for the coast. A rechargeable card is the normal way to pay, and the operator's site has current details.
From the airport, the metro connects directly to the city centre. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.
Good to know
- The weather can be wet, especially outside summer. A waterproof is useful.
- The hills are steep. Plan your route to go downhill where you can.
- Many restaurants close one day a week, often Sunday or Monday. Check before you go.
- Portugal uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted.
- The coast is often cooler and windier than the city centre. Bring an extra layer if you head to the seafront.