With its sweeping views, ancient architecture, vibrant culture and mouthwatering cuisine, Portugal’s second largest city has plenty to offer visitors. Read on to discover 14 reasons why Porto should be on your bucket list!
Quick Facts About Porto
Before diving into the details, here are some quick facts about this captivating destination:
- Located along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal
- Population of approximately 214,000
- Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Known for port wine production
- Historic center with beautiful architecture
- Hub for arts, culture and nightlife
- Delicious local cuisine like francesinha sandwiches
Let’s explore all the reasons you need to visit Porto!
1. Marvel at the Ancient Architecture
One of the top things Porto is known for is its wealth of ancient architecture spanning various styles from Gothic to Modernist. Wandering the hilly streets, you’ll find beautiful churches, grand plazas, houses adorned with azulejos tiles and more.
Top architectural sights include:
- São Bento Railway Station: The atrium walls depict scenes from Portuguese history in magnificent azulejos.
- Livraria Lello Bookstore: This neo-Gothic gem features ornate carved wood, stained glass and dazzling ceilings.
- Igreja do Carmo: A fine example of Rococo and Baroque architecture with an elaborate gilded interior.
- Casa da Música: Rem Koolhaas’ iconic modernist concert hall that looks like a futuristic cube.
- Sé Cathedral: Porto’s fortressed medieval cathedral standing on a hilltop since the 12th century.
- Palácio da Bolsa: The 19th century former stock exchange interior will take your breath away.
2. Cross the Iconic Bridges
Porto is synonymous with its six stunning bridges spanning the Douro River. Crossing any of these bridges rewards you with beautiful views.
The most famous is the double-decker Ponte de Dom Luís I designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel. Its top deck is for the metro while cars take the lower deck.
The monumental Ponte da Arrábida , completed in 1963, is an arch bridge with gorgeous views from the top.
3. Sip World-Famous Port Wine
No trip to Porto is complete without tasting Portugal’s famous fortified wine, which originated here. At port houses across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, you can tour cellars, learn about port’s history and indulge in tastings.
Top picks include:
- Taylor’s: Founded in 1692, offering tours and views.
- Graham’s: Relax at the Vintage House Hotel restaurant after your tour.
- Sandeman: Don a black hat and cape for your tasting!
- Ferreira: An unhurried experience with knowledgeable guides.
Be sure to sample white, tawny and ruby port to discover your perfect pour!
4. Devour Iconic Portuguese Food
From fresh seafood to savory pastries, Porto delivers delicious authentic Portuguese cuisine. Be sure to try:
- Francesinha: The iconic Porto sandwich layered with cheese, ham and linguica sausage smothered in a tomato-beer sauce.
- Tripas à moda do Porto: Traditional tripe stew that’s a local specialty. Made with white beans, sausage and mint.
- Bacalhau: Salted cod prepared in endless ways, it’s Portugal’s undisputed national dish.
- Pastéis de nata: Custard tarts baked with flaky pastry are a quintessential Portuguese treat.
- Sardinhas: Grilled sardines are a go-to appetizer. Try them brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt.
5. See Unique Street Art & Murals
As an artistic city, Porto is filled with stunning street art. The Bordalo II trash pandas sculpture is a must. Other highlights include:
- Galeria de Paris dedicated to urban art.
- Bolsa Palace with 15 monumental painted panels.
- House of Music depicting Portugal’s music history in azulejos.
- Chapel of Souls church with 15,000 azulejos tiles inside.
Keep your eye out when walking around and you’re sure to stumble upon colorful creative gems!
6. Marvel at Breathtaking Azulejos
Azulejos, the beautiful hand-painted Portuguese ceramic tiles, adorn buildings all over Porto. The train station, churches, shops and more are embellished with these ornate tiles.
Top spots to see azulejos artistry include:
- São Bento Railway Station: The atrium contains over 20,000 azulejos depicting major events in Portuguese history.
- Igreja do Carmo: The church facade is completely covered in magnificent blue and white azulejos.
- Capela das Almas: The interior is lined with 15,000+ azulejos illustrating the lives of saints.
- Hotel Intercontinental Porto: The historic hotel lobby displays lovely contemporary azulejos.
7. People Watch at a Riverfront Cafe
Sitting at an outdoor cafe overlooking the Douro River is one of the simplest but greatest pleasures in Porto. The pedestrian zone along the riverbank on Ribeira Square is lined with restaurants and bars with prime views.
Order a super bock beer or glass of port wine and watch tourists and locals alike wandering the scenic riverfront. Excellent spots for river gazing include Cafe Candelabro and Cafe Astoria.
8. Take a River Cruise
Seeing Porto from the water gives you a whole new vantage point. River cruises range from 50 minutes to full day trips. You’ll float under the iconic bridges while learning about Porto’s architecture, history and port wine tradition.
Many cruises include tastings of port wine, cheese, and other local treats. You can even opt for a sunset or dinner cruise. Popular picks are:
- Six Bridges Cruise: Relaxing one-hour route with informative commentary.
- Douro Sunset Dinner Cruise: Two delightful hours with dinner and live music.
9. Shop the Livraria Lello Bookstore
Even if you’re not buying books, visiting the Harry Potter-esque Livraria Lello bookstore is a must in Porto, with its neo-Gothic façade, opulent interiors and dazzling stained glass skylight.
The 1906 bookstore is a work of art. The world’s first decorative bookstore, it’s been called “the most beautiful bookstore in the world.” Be prepared for crowds and snap your Instagram shots!
10. Step Back in Time at a Historic Café
For a glimpse into Porto’s past, sip coffee and nibble sweet treats at one of the historic cafes that have been operating for generations. Cafe Majestic and Cafe Guarany both opened in the 1920s inside lavishly decorated halls.
Cafe Santa Catarina, dating from 1886, offers panoramic river views. At these timeless cafes, both locals and visitors cherish the old world atmosphere.
11. Explore the Quaint Ribeira District
The postcard-perfect Ribeira neighborhood along the river is filled with colorful houses, lively bars, and cobbled lanes just made for wandering.
Make sure to weave through its medieval alleys, walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and admire the views from Miradouro da Ribeira viewpoint. Grab an outdoor table for some excellent people watching!
12. Take a Day Trip to the Douro Valley
Just a short drive from Porto lies the beautiful UNESCO-listed Douro Valley wine region. You can book tours from Porto or visit independently to explore the countryside and vineyards via boat, train, car or bike.
Must-dos include:
- River cruise to admire the terraced vineyards.
- Visit quintas (wine estates) like Quinta do Tedo for tours and tastings.
- Savor delicious Portuguese food and wine at area restaurants.
- Stay overnight at a charming rural hotel like Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House.
13. See Stunning Coastal Views at Foz do Douro
The charming Foz do Douro neighborhood sits on the coast near the river mouth. Here you’ll find a delightful oceanfront promenade, the Castelo do Queijo fortress, the Portuguese cuisine of Mercado da Foz food court, and the Passeio Alegre public park filled with lush gardens.
It’s the perfect spot to take in panoramic sea vistas at the meeting point of the Douro River and the Atlantic. Don’t miss the picture-perfect coastal views!
14. Embrace Porto’s Arts and Culture
A vibrant creative spirit thrives in Porto. The city boasts fantastic museums like the Museu Serralves, awe-inspiring music venues including Casa da Música concert hall, plus a packed events calendar.
Immerse yourself in Porto’s dynamic arts scene by:
- Catching a show at the São João National Theatre.
- Browsing the contemporary art galleries on Miguel Bombarda street.
- Exploring the Municipal Museum of Porto.
- Timing your visit for a festival like Primavera Sound.
Experience the Magic of Porto!
With its rich history, striking architecture, delicious food, renowned wine and captivating charm, Porto is an unforgettable destination. Spend your days crossing iconic bridges, marveling at ancient buildings, exploring quaint neighborhoods, and embracing the city’s vibrant spirit.
The reasons to visit Porto are endless. Let us know if this blog post convinced you to add it to your bucket list! Have an amazing time soaking up all the magic this wonderful city has to offer.
