Things to do in Porto

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Dom Luis I Bridge featuring night scenes, street scenes and a bridge
Porto Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, religious aspects and interior views
Porto featuring a city and street scenes
Photo provided by Tourismo de Portugal
Photo provided by Tourismo de Portugal

Porto Attractions

Portugal's second-largest city might be most well-known for its internationally famous export, port wine, but that's not the only reason to visit this easy-going European city sprinkled with ancient edifices and 2 Michelin-starred restaurants. Porto is one of the region's top vacation destinations, and it's easy to see why. Cobblestone streets wind their way down to the twinkling Douro River, while the influence of the Atlantic Ocean is ever present. Whether you're a history buff who wants to explore the city's UNESCO-listed center or a foodie looking to fill up on Porto's delectable petiscos (small plates), there's something here to attract every type of traveler.


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What to do in Porto

Free Things to Do in Porto

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you explore the following around Porto:

Portuguese Photography Center - Stroll the halls and take in the intriguing exhibits and collections at this popular museum.

Gaia Cable Car - Let the kids play or let the big kid in you run free — this attraction was built for fun.

Piscina das Mares - Prepare to get wet and have a splashing good time with the entire family.

Ponte Infante D. Henrique - Pay a visit to this modern local landmark and take in its impressive design.

Lions Fountain - If you'd love to explore the area's history through its landmarks, pencil this one in your travel itinerary.

Infante Square - Discover why both visitors and locals enjoy the vibe of this place.

Bolhao Market - Set aside some time to look at this site of local significance.

Holy Trinity Church - Connect with your spiritual side or just get lost in the tranquil atmosphere at this religious site.

Carneiro Beach - Go for a leisurely stroll along the coastline and perhaps even dip a toe in.

Miradouro da Vitoria - Get set for views that'll leave you in awe at this natural landscape.

Jardim da Cordoaria - If you relish working in your garden, this attraction will excite your green thumb.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Porto

A walkable city center and a seaside district to delight the senses help explain Porto's everlasting appeal. Those who want to soak up some sun head to the upscale Foz do Douro neighborhood, while the Historic Center of Porto pays homage to the origins of the city with its exquisite old churches and plazas like Ribeira Square.

 

Foz do Douro

At the mouth of the Douro River, Foz do Douro beckons with sun-drenched parks and sprawling beaches. Where the Douro meets the sea, locals come to surf and catch some rays at the region's seaside bistros. Upscale homes abound, while sightseeing destinations include the Felgueiras Lighthouse and the Jardim do Passeio Alegre.

Historic Center of Porto

Situated around a series of city parishes, Porto's hilly Historic Center enchants visitors with 14th-century scenery. Romanesque cathedrals like the Sé do Porto provide a look at the Porto of long ago, while the crumbling Fernandina Wall imbues the district with undeniable romance. Can't-miss sights include the Fonte dos Leões, the Jardim da Cordoaria, and the Fonte das Virtudes.

Praça Ribeira

Nestled into the Historic Center of Porto, the Praça Ribeira is flanked by pastel-colored houses at the site of a former manufacturing district once known for its fish, bread, and meat sellers. Today, it's a favorite among strolling tourists who come here to enjoy the buskers along the banks of the Douro River.

 

Things to See in Porto

From its skyscraping church spires to its winding medieval lanes, there are endless things to see in Porto. After familiarizing yourself with the city's main sights, head to the Old Jewish Quarter for the chance to drink in the vistas along the Rue de Santana and the Passeio das Virtudes while hearing about Portugal's Jewish history. Likewise, you can cross the Douro River to take in a live Fado show while sipping delicious port wine. Want to ensure you don't miss a single thing? Consider booking a full-day city tour that leads you across Porto's bridges and allows you to cross additional landmarks off your sightseeing bucket list, including the Bolhão Market, Batalha Square, and São Francisco Xavier Fort.

Sightseeing in Porto

From treating yourself to the local tipple to day trips to soak up the unbelievable natural scenery, there are endless things to do in Porto. Those willing to let their taste buds take the lead will be richly rewarded during a small-group gastronomy tour, which invites travelers to feast on local treats like the city's signature Francesinha sandwich and Eduardinho liquor. Likewise, you can climb aboard a hybrid bike and pedal your way to an appetizer lunch and winetasting tour in an 18th-century port wine cellar. Searching for more active adventures? Consider renting a stand-up paddleboard and propelling yourself down the Douro River with the wind at your back. Finally, there's no need to restrict your travel plans to the Porto city limits. Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of port wine production during a full-day getaway in the Douro Valley, or venture to Portugal's only national park during a guided excursion to Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Things to Do in Porto with Kids

There are loads of outstanding experiences in Porto that the entire gang will get a buzz out of. These are some of the best family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Porto? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Porto

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Porto

Porto which includes a small town or village and a city

Centro / Baixa

4.5/5(771 area reviews)

From the enticingly named Street of Flowers to the stunning Church of Compassion, this popular neighborhood is the heart of the city of Porto.

Centro / Baixa
Ribeira Square featuring a square or plaza, a monument and cafe lifestyle

Ribeira

A beautiful and lively district within Porto’s historic center offers river views, pretty pastel houses, local taverns, gothic homes, shops, restaurants and more.

Ribeira
Dom Luis I Bridge showing a bridge

If you're spending time in Sé, check out sights like Praça da Batalha or Porto Cathedral and hop on the metro to see more the city at Batalha-Guindais Stop or Guindais Funicular.

Sandeman Cellars featuring interior views and heritage architecture

Santa Marinha

4.5/5(79 area reviews)

While you're in Santa Marinha, take in top sights like Gaia Cable Car and jump on the metro at Jardim do Morro Station to see more of the city.

Santa Marinha
Porto which includes signage, outdoor art and a city

Santo Ildefonso

Known for its ample dining options and beautiful river views, there's plenty to explore in Santo Ildefonso. You can visit top attractions like Bolhao Market and Porto City Hall, and jump on the metro at Trindade Station or Bolhao Station to see more of the city.

Santo Ildefonso
Porto which includes a small town or village and a city

Vitória

If you're spending time in Vitória, check out sights like Livraria Lello or Clerigos Tower and hop on the metro to see more the city at Guilherme Gomes Fernandes Stop or Carmo Stop.

Vitória

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Porto

Frequently asked questions

Is Porto worth visiting?
Providing a blend of history and views, there's no shortage of things to do in Porto. When you're here, visit Porto Cathedral, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Porto?
After you've checked off major attractions like Ingleses Beach and Cais de Gaia, spend the rest of your day exploring the retail and food options in Porto.
What is the top tourist attraction in Porto?
Porto Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Porto and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Porto?
Three days will be enough time to tick off popular city highlights, like Porto Cathedral, Ingleses Beach and Cais de Gaia. The average stay in Porto is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Vila Nova de Gaia isn't far away.
Is Porto a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Porto, like Porto Cathedral and Cais de Gaia, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.5 miles from the city center of Porto is União de Freguesias do Centro and Centro / Baixa is 0.2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Porto with kids?
What to do in Porto for adults?
Taylor's Port Cellars and Ramos Pinto Cellars are just a few of the things to do in Porto. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Porto?
In Porto, Porto Cathedral is a popular spot for anyone looking to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Porto.