porto portugal travel and leisure

36 Hours in Porto, Portugal

By Seth Sherwood May 30, 2024

• Share full article

By Seth Sherwood Photographs by Matilde Viegas

Seth Sherwood, based in Paris, is a longtime contributor to the Travel section who has been writing about Portugal since 2006.

First Lisbon; now Porto. The whole world seems to have fallen in love lately with the nearby beaches, old churches, seafood-heavy cuisine and historical UNESCO-listed streets of Portugal’s second-largest city, where the number of tourists has doubled in a decade. (The circus-like atmosphere along the Douro riverfront and outside Livraria Lello , a neo-Gothic 19th-century bookstore, are only the most obvious signs.) And the home of port wine is keeping pace with a slew of new offerings. Recent years have seen the opening, upgrading or expansion of museums , art centers , food markets , food halls and hotels aplenty — along with the inauguration of World of Wine, a dining and entertainment district .

Recommendations

• Cozinha das Flores , a classy nouveau Portuguese restaurant led by one of the country’s most successful international chefs, features design elements from a Pritzker Prize-winning architect, the Porto-area native Álvaro Siza Vieira.
• The Serralves Museum , a collection of contemporary art on the park-like grounds of the Serralves Foundation — a decades-old private institution that works closely with the Portuguese government — has a new wing by Mr. Siza.
• Mercado do Bolhão , a 19th-century food market, reopened two years ago after a total renovation.
• The World of Wine district, like a theme park for epicureans, features several food- and drink-themed museums, a wine school, and numerous restaurants and bars.
• Jardins do Palácio de Cristal , a 19th-century park, features fountains, ponds, peacocks, an art museum and views of the Douro River.
• The exterior of Capela das Almas church is covered with blue-and-white azulejos (painted and glazed ceramic tiles, brought to Portugal and Spain during the Middle Ages from Moorish North Africa) depicting biblical scenes.
• A Pérola do Bolhão is a fine-food boutique that sports an authentic Art Nouveau exterior.
• Café Majestic , opened in the 1920s, houses a soaring Art Nouveau dining room and serves everything from pastries to pastas to steaks.
• Igreja de Santo Ildefonso , an 18th-century church, features a facade covered with azulejo tiles.
• Batalha Centro de Cinema , an Art Deco movie theater, was renovated and reopened in 2022 with a bookshop and bar.
• Igreja de São Francisco is a church that dazzles with its gilded Baroque woodwork.
• Labels of Tomorrow is a two-level emporium with contemporary unisex fashion by Portuguese and international designers.
• Coração Alecrim specializes in vintage clothing for women and has its own retro-inspired line.
• Musubu Porto , a Japanese vegetarian cafe, operates from a niche in the back of Coração Alecrim.
• Apego jazzes up Portuguese cuisine with French ingredients and techniques.
• Fiasco serves creative cocktails and sells a wide range of vinyl albums.
• Terraplana Café channels an old-time urban saloon and has a backyard where you can enjoy the bar’s craft beers and signature cocktails.
• Capela Incomum is a wine bar inside a former 19th-century chapel.
• Genuíno is a lively bar that draws oenophiles for its natural wines from local vineyards.
• Design savvy and art-filled, the Rebello opened last year in Vila Nova de Gaia and offers knockout views of Porto, across the Douro River, from many of its 103 apartment-style rooms. A roof bar, pool, spa, restaurant and cafe are also in the converted 19th-century stone building, which is near the Ferreira port-wine house. Rooms from around 450 euros, or about $488, in June.
• The six minimalist white rooms of the Babel guesthouse, tastefully furnished with vintage and modern furniture, offer an excellent city-center base. Its lively downstairs restaurant serves local Portuguese ingredients with splashes of flavor from North Africa, the Middle East and beyond. Rooms in June start around €138.
• Roughly a mile east of the city center, a drab residential street hides Outsite Porto-Mouco , a modernist white building with 12 apartments, a coworking cafe, a library, a pool and grassy grounds. Apartments from around €123 in June.
• For short-term rentals among the central districts, Ribeira is rich in historical buildings and lies closest to the picturesque riverside, while Clérigos abounds with dining and nightlife.
• An efficient bus system and ever-expanding modern metro network cover much of Porto and surrounding areas, from the airport to the city center to the nearby coastal towns. An Andante card, available in metro stations, allows travel by bus or train in central Porto for €1.40 per ride. (Zones farther from the center have higher fares .) A three-day card for the entire bus and train network costs €16. Taxis are abundant and fairly cheap, as are trips with the ride-hailing app Uber.

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

Gazing at the bridges and passing ships on the Douro River is a favorite Porto pastime. For sublime views far from the dense crush of the waterfront walkways, the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal , a manicured 19th-century park, is a relaxed, bucolic alternative and a favorite with locals. In addition to tree-shaded lookout points, the park includes ponds, fountains, lawns, flower beds and rotating art exhibitions in the free, multilevel Galeria Municipal do Porto . As you stroll, keep your ears open for the calls of the park's resident ducks and peacocks.

Cozinha das Flores

After decades abroad, cooking alongside international legends (Wolfgang Puck, Ferran Adrià) and helming kitchens of beloved London restaurants (Viajante, Chiltern Firehouse), the chef Nuno Mendes has planted his flag once again in his native land, overseeing the precise neo-Portuguese cuisine at Cozinha das Flores , a year-old restaurant along the pedestrianized Rua das Flores. Try tasty tiny snacks (crunchy sourdough crackers with razor clams), elegant comfort food (Azores squid sliced into pasta-like strands with a zesty stew of chickpeas and cod tripe) and unusual desserts (ice cream, made from and resembling egg yolk, on ribbons of sugary, fried egg-yolk, sprinkled with ham shavings). Note the abstract drawings on the pink-and-green mosaic wall: the Pritzker Prize-winning architect (and Porto-region native) Álvaro Siza Vieira contributed both. Dinner for two costs about 120 euros, or about $130, without drinks.

If you’re keen to avoid thronged streets and blasting music — hallmarks of the Mardi Gras-like Clérigos nightlife district — head east to Bomfim, a laid-back bohemian neighborhood of art galleries and indie boutiques. Sporting red walls and red banquettes, Fiasco is both Porto’s sultriest new cocktail bar and a mecca for vinyl record collectors, thanks to numerous racks of rock, rap, indie, electro, world-beat and other albums for sale. A Lusco Fusco Groove cocktail (Ysabel Regina brandy, Campari, fortified Portuguese wine and coffee) runs you 9 euros. Down the street, Terraplana Café channels an old-time urban saloon (tin ceiling, checkerboard floor) while dispensing original cocktails. The back garden is perfect for a Tropicalia cocktail: ruby port, sparkling rosé and guava-hibiscus syrup, brightened with salt (€11).

The Super Bock Arena, also known as Pavilhão Rosa Mota, seen from the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.

Álvaro Siza Wing

Now 90 years old, Mr. Siza, the architect whose touches you spotted at Cozinha das Flores, has been keeping busy. This year, the Serralves Museum — a world-class contemporary art museum that he designed in the 1990s — added a splashy new wing that he also designed. Known as the Álvaro Siza Wing , the jagged white addition displays plans and models from the architect’s long international career, as well as works from the permanent collection, including strange fairy tale-like paintings from Paula Rego and abstract lithographs by Gerhard Richter. An apocalyptic installation by the Thai artist Korakrit Arunanondchai and a haunted playerless piano from the French artist Philippe Parreno are particularly potent. Admission to all buildings and grounds is €24.

Mercado Bolhão

Bearded and bespectacled, Joaquim Lucas resembles a scholar as he carefully slices presunto (€65 a kilo) from aged hocks of Alentejo ham. His stand, Charcutaria Princesa , is one of dozens inside Mercado Bolhão , a recently upgraded 19th-century covered food market in the city center that reopened in 2022. The smorgasbord also includes spice dealers, fruit sellers, cheese specialists, wine stands and more. Raw surf-and-turf comes courtesy of Casa das Ostras — which cracks open sea urchin (€5 each) and shucks Algarve oysters (three for €7) — and Talho do Toninho , a butcher stall serving toast slices topped with beef or deer tartare (€1.50). For dessert, Doçaria Portuguesa does a chocolate-rimmed pastel de nata (€2), the classic Portuguese egg tart. For a sit-down meal, several restaurants occupy the upper level. And a short walk south is a new food hall from Time Out, opened in May.

Strolling nearby Rua Santa Catarina, a car-free shopping boulevard, provides both a digestive walk and an architectural exhibition. Start at Capela das Almas , an 18th-century church covered with blue-and-white azulejos (added in 1929) depicting divine episodes filled with saints, apostles, magi and cherubs. Heading south, you can admire the Art Nouveau façade of A Perola do Bolhão , a fine-food shop dating to 1917, and the grand Belle Epoque interior of Café Majestic , which opened in 1921. Finally, stop in Praça da Batalha, home of the azulejo-covered Igreja de Santo Ildefonso , an 18th-century church, and the Batalha Centro de Cinema , a 1940s Art Deco movie theater that was restored and reopened in 2022. In addition to an eclectic roster of films, the center offers a library, bookshop and bar.

Coração Alecrim

Your Saturday night wardrobe awaits inside Labels of Tomorrow , a two-level international fashion emporium a few blocks north of Livraria Lello in the Cedofeita neighborhood. Portuguese labels take center stage, from button-up blue maritime jackets for men from Sanjo (€149.90) to gauzy takes on 1950s ladies’ bowling shirts (€130) by Mustique. After your fitting-room adventures, a terrace cafe-restaurant and a backyard bar provide refreshment for shopping fatigue — or fuel for another spree. If you prefer threads with history, the nearby Coração Alecrim shop sells vintage clothing — fur coats (€70), sheer paisley dresses (€40) — and its own line of retro-inspired jackets, shirts and more. A Japanese vegetarian cafe, Musubu Porto , is tucked in back.

If France is too far away, you can enjoy Gallic flavors at Apego , a homey little restaurant in a quiet street north of Trinidade train station. Global music echoes off the high stone walls and yellow banquettes as the Franco-Portuguese chef Aurora Goy reinvents local cuisine with dishes like a savory tarte tatin (which replaces apples with eggs and mushrooms) and a bed of pomme paillasson — a crispy-fried cake of shredded potato — topped with mackerel and leeks in white-wine sauce. Desserts include a French-style sablé biscuit with pear and custard-like sabayon incorporating Madeira wine. A three-course dinner for two, without wine, costs around €90.

Gallery district by day, the zone around Rua Miguel Bombarda morphs into a destination for wine lovers as night falls. Occupying an elegantly repurposed 19th-century chapel, Capela Incomum allows acolytes of the grape to sip vintages likes Lapa dos Gaivões (€4.50 a glass) — a smooth red blend from the Alentejo region — in its burgundy-painted lounge or tree-shaded front yard. A block away, Genuíno is a lively Brazilian-owned restaurant and natural-wine bar outfitted with a disco ball, playful wine-themed posters, and vintage tables and chairs. Most wines come from small regional producers, including an agreeably dry, concrete-aged orange wine from Folias de Baco (€5.50 a glass).

A view over the museums in the World of Wine (WOW) district, with the Dom Luís I Bridge in the distance.

Igreja de São Francisco

By now you have noticed: Old churches beckon from nearly every corner. If you venture inside only one, Igreja de São Francisco pays off in gold — literally. Erected in the medieval period, the church’s soaring stony interior was enriched in the 1700s with talha dourada — elaborately carved and gilded wood. The effect is a dazzling symphony of radiant decorative themes — spiral-twist columns, swirls, floral patterns, coats of arms, cherubs and disembodied faces that burst from every surface. Downstairs, in the crypt, a transparent floor panel reveals a sea of white bones lurking below ground. Admission €10.

The Chocolate Story museum in the WOW district.

Did you know that the Chinese village of Jiahu might have produced the world’s first wine, several millennia before Christ? That Muscat from Alexandria was Cleopatra's favorite wine? That the signing of the Declaration of Independence was celebrated with a toast of Madeira? Educational nuggets fill the Bridge Collection (entry €25), a museum with a staggering array of historical wine information and antique drinking vessels in the World of Wine (WOW) entertainment district. Opened in 2020, WOW encompasses several museums — including ones devoted to chocolate, cork and rosé wine — as well as boutiques, a wine school, and numerous restaurants and bars. Root & Vine serves up a classic international brunch — eggs on toast, salmon bagels, waffles — and panoramic views of the city for a final snapshot. Museum admission €25 each.

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

Colorado Springs: ​​Colorado’s second-largest city, which brims with outdoor activities , is enticing visitors with a new museum and revamped hotels.

Minneapolis: Springtime is best for exploring this Midwestern city’s lakeside trails, robust arts scene and top-notch restaurants .

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

Advertisement

18 Best Things to Do in Porto You Can’t Really Miss – Travel Guide + Map

🌍Where is Porto

Porto is located in northern Portugal, about 315 Km north of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Nestled in the River Douro Estuary, Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest settlements in Europe. River Douro is famous for the production of Port, a popular fortified wine, which is named after this city. The Atlantic coast lies just about 5 km from Porto.

Porto has been an important port since the Roman times around 135 BC, when its name was Portus Cale. The name of Portugal originated from there. Porto became a major shipbuilding hub of the country in the 15th century, and it played a prominent role in the Age of Discoveries.

Best Time to Visit Porto

Porto has a  Mediterranean climate  with hot and sunny summers and a mild, rainy winter. The temperate oceanic climate makes the city much colder than Lisbon and Algarve. Each season presents something unique to experience. So, it’s better to know what to expect. 

🌞  Peak Season : The summer months, June to September, are the high tourist season in Porto with beautiful warm sunny weather. Also, you would get to see many festivals happening during these months. The days are long, hot and dry, with an average temperature of over 25ºC from July to September. A great time to enjoy the beaches on the Porto coast. The water temperature is comfortably warm enough for swimming and snorkelling. June and July are the hottest months . Bear in mind that it gets super crowded in summer. So, hotel prices go up very quickly. Also, expect long queues at the attractions.

🍂  Shoulder Season : The  Late Spring and autumn are probably the best time to visit Porto . The weather stays pleasantly warm and sunny, and the days are long enough. Although, you might experience some slight occasional downpours. Tourist attractions are much less crowded than during the summer months. Also, the hotels are relatively cheaper.

🏔️ Low Season : The winter months November to February, are the low seasons in Porto. Winter here is mild, wet and relatively warm from the rest of the European countries. You can expect about 5 – 6 hours of daylight. The average temperature in winter remains at 14ºC. January and February are the coldest months.  

How Many Days to Spend in Porto

We would suggest spending at least two days in Porto. It should give you enough time to visit the main tourist attractions of the city alongside the Vila Nova de Gaia neighbourhood. This city is an ideal choice for a weekend city break in Europe.

But if you want to explore every nook and crannies and really want to know the heart of this amazing city, you can easily add a few more days to your travel itinerary. Also, there are some excellent day trip options from Porto. It will certainly keep you busy. You won’t get bored. So finally, it really depends on your travel style and how much you want to explore.

Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal

1. fall in love with porto cathedral.

With over 850 years of history, Porto Cathedral is one of the most prominent religious and architectural attractions of the city . Sitting over a hilltop in the old historic centre of Porto, this imposing cathedral is also one of the oldest buildings of the city and is referred to as Sé do Porto in Portuguese.

The construction of the church started in the second half of the 12th century. Throughout history, it went through many transformations. Many parts of the building were rebuilt or added in later centuries. One of the interesting things you would notice is that the Porto cathedral has three distinct architectural styles – Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic.

This monument has witnessed many historic moments in Portugal’s history. This site was used by the kings and the queens for marriages, baptisms and other religious ceremonies. After admiring the fortress-like exteriors, step inside the cathedral. Here you will find an exquisitely ornate silver altarpiece, sacred sculptures and a few smaller chapels.

Pay a small fee to see the 14th-century gothic cloister adjacent to the cathedral. The walls are decorated with impressive white and blue azulejos tiles, depicting stories from the holy book. The small treasury nearby showcases a great collection of early Christian artefacts of the cathedral.

Climb the stairs to visit the cathedral towers. From here, you will get an excellent panoramic view of the city’s rooftops, the Douro River and the famous Dom Luis I Bridge.

Where to find : Porto Cathedral is within walking distance from the Sao Bento Train Station.

Entrance Fees : Entry to the cathedral is free. But you have to pay €3 to visit the cloisters and the tower.

Opening Hours : April – October 9 am – 6:30 pm. November – March 9 am – 5:30 pm.

2. Cross the Iconic Dom Luis I Bridge

Spanning the River Douro, the Dom Luis I Bridge is one of the most important architectural landmarks of Porto . This magnificent engineering feat is a must-visit tourist attraction in the city. Arguably the most striking of all the bridges in Porto, this double-decker metal bridge connects the historic Ribeira with the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia.  

Named after the Portuguese King Luis I, the Dom Luis I Bridge took five years to complete and was opened to the public in 1886. At that time, it was the largest spanning metal bridge in the world. It was designed by the German architect, Teophile Seyrig – a disciple of famous French engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.

The structure stands at 85 metres in height and spans over 172 metres in length. Today, the Porto Metro services run through the upper level of the bridge, and the lower one carries the road traffics. Both the levels have pedestrian access. Take a boat cruise on the river to get a different perspective of this iconic attraction in Porto. Dom Luís I Bridge has structural similarities with the nearby Maria Pia Bridge.

Top Tips : Walk both levels of the bridge. If you cross the bridge on the upper level, come back through the low level. You will get one of the best views of the Porto skyline. The view from the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar at the end of the bridge is one of our favourites – an excellent spot for catching a lovely sunset over the city and the bridge.

Where to find : The nearest metro station to the bridge is Jardim do Morro in the Metro service line D. Also, from the São Bento Station, it is around a 10-15 minutes walk.

3. Take a Relaxing Boat Trip along the Douro River

The Douro River has played a key role in the prosperity and the development of Porto and the nearby area. For centuries, the river has been used to transport port wine from the Douro Valley. From Porto, the goods and barrels were traded and exported around the world.

Take a boat cruise to see the six bridges over the Douro River. It is one of the best family-friendly fun things to do in Porto . Different boat companies run this trip regularly throughout the day. The tour takes place on a traditional wooden Portuguese Rabelo boat . Until the railway line, these boats were the popular mode of transportation.

In this 50-minutes relaxing trip, you will get a chance to see the popular attractions of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia from a different and unique perspective. Also, learn about the history of the six magnificent bridges over the Douro.  

The first bridge you will come across is the famous 19th-century double-decker bridge, Don Luis I , designed by Téophile Seyrig. Afterwards, you will see the beautiful Arrábida Bridge at the mouth of the river. It is possible to climb the arch of the bridge on a guided tour.  

Next, you see the Maria Pia Bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, known for the world-famous Eiffel Tower. Also, you will find the Infante Dom Henrique Bridge, São João Bridge and Freixo Bridge at the far east of Porto, towering over the Douro River.

Where to find : Boat leaves from the Vila Nova de Gaia Pier and Ribeira Dock.

Entrance Fees : Usually €15 per person.

Operating Hours : Daily hourly. In summer, the first departure is 10 am and the last departure 6 pm. In winter, the first departure is 11 am and the last departure 4 pm.

4. Spot Beautiful Azulejo Tiles around Porto

One of the most iconic things to do in Porto would be exploring the azulejo tiles. These glazed ceramic tiles are found almost everywhere in this city – from historic buildings to churches, train stations to fountains, benches in public parks to restaurants. They are an integral part of Porto’s culture and heritage. 

Azulejo originated from Arabic word, al zellige, which translates to ‘polished stone’. This art form first came to southern Spain in the 13 th century during the Moorish period in Iberian Peninsula. It was brought to Portugal by King Manuel I from Seville, Spain in the 15 th century. In the early days, it was simple geometric patterns like birds and flowers. But throughout centuries it evolved into a more ornate and intricate art form telling religious stories, battles, seafaring stories of the country. We saw many beautiful azulejos in Lisbon as well.

The colours are predominantly blue and white , being influenced by the Age of Discoveries. However, you can also spot a tinge of yellow and green sometimes.

Sao Bento Station at the heart of Porto has one of the finest works of azulejos. It was painted in the early 20 th century by Jorge Colaco – a famous azulejo painter. Porto Cathedral , Capela das Almas, Igreja do Carmo, Casa da Musica are some of the places where you can spot some beautiful examples of azulejos.

5. Admire the Panoramic Views from Clerigos Tower

The 76-meter high Clerigos Tower is an icon of Porto . This stunning Baroque bell tower dominates the city skyline. Climbing the tower to see the bird’s eye view of the surroundings is one of the best things to do in Porto. Also, it is the highest building in the city .  

Clerigos Tower dates back to the 18th century. It was built for the Brotherhood of Clerigos. The tower and adjacent church were designed by famous Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. He also designed many other buildings in the north of Portugal.

To enjoy the view from the tower, you have to climb almost 240 steps . The climb is not for the faint-hearted. As you approach the top, the stairs get very steep and narrow – it might feel claustrophobic for some. But the stunning view is well worth the effort. You will get an amazing aerial view of Porto.

Once you get down from the tower, wander around the church. The building architect, Nicolau Nasoni, is buried in the crypt. Also, take a look inside the adjourning museum. It has a collection of religious sculptures and paintings, and the entry is included in your ticket.

Best Tips : Due to its popularity, it can get very busy sometimes, especially in peak tourist seasons. So, try to be here early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid standing in a long queue. Also, one of the best times to visit is during sunset.

Where to find : Clerigos Tower is just a 5-minute walk from the Sao Bento Station.

Entrance Fees : The church is free to visit. But you have to pay €6 for the tower.

Opening Hours : Every day from 9 am to 7 pm. The tower remains open till late nights in a few summer months.

6. Browse Books in Livraria Lello

Often called one of the most beautiful bookshops in the World , Livraria Lello has been helping book lovers find their next book for over 100 years. It is one of Portugal’s oldest bookshops and one of the highlights for those visiting Porto. Probably you have already seen stunning pictures of this place on social media. It is one of the most photographed places in Porto.

This bookshop was opened in 1906 by the brothers José and António Lello. The Neo-Gothic structure and the Art Nouveau interior of this bookshop were designed by Francisco Xavier Esteves. At the centre of the store is its iconic winding staircase. Admire the beautifully decorated intricate details of the imposing ceiling. It may look like wood but is actually made of painted plaster. The colourful stained glass skylight provides a ton of natural light.

You will find an impressive collection of books written by Portuguese authors. They also have an international section where you will find the English translations.

It is rumoured that the Lello bookstore has a Harry Potter connection . Author J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto for a couple of years, is thought to have drawn inspiration for Hogwarts from this place. But, recently the author clarified on Twitter that she never visited this bookshop and never even knew of its existence.

Potterheads will enjoy a visit to the Scottish capital city, Edinburgh , where Rowling penned some of the Harry Potter books sitting in a cafe. Also, ride the famous Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William – seen as the Hogwarts Express in the movies.

Regardless of the Harry Potter hype, Livraria Lello is a magical place and definitely worth a visit.

Tip : Livraria Lello is one of the busiest attractions in Porto. It gets thousands of visitors per day. So, we will recommend buying your entrance tickets online in advance and getting there as early as possible to avoid the crowd.

Where to find : Livraria Lello is just around 5-7 minutes from the Sao Bento Station by foot. To reach Sao Bento from other parts of Porto, catch the metro service line D.

Entrance Fees : €5 per person, if you book your ticket online from their website. It is €6 if you buy on site. You can redeem the ticket price over the purchased books.

Opening Hours : Daily 09:30 am to 7:00 pm.

7. Uncover Bolsa Palace’s Unique Past

Set in the historic centre of Porto, Bolsa Palace used to house the city’s Stock Exchange. Founded in the 19th century, this ornate building shows the wealth and opulence of the merchants and traders in this city.  

This historic neoclassical Palladian-style structure was built over the ruins of the nearby Saint Francis convent. Today, it is one of the top visitor attractions in Porto and serves as the headquarters of the Porto Commercial Association.

The interior of the palace is only accessible by guided tours . Tours are mainly conducted in Portuguese, Spanish, French and English, and run very frequently. It lasts for around half an hour. You can buy tickets online as well.

One of the highlights of the tour is the incredibly ornate Arab Room . It took almost 18 years to build this room. It was designed by Goncalves e Sousa in the Moorish Revival style, drawing inspiration from the renowned Alhambra Palace in Granada. Admire the stunning central courtyard on the ground floor. Covered by an octagonal iron dome, it was the original trading floor of the building. Here you will find the coat of arms of several countries around the World with whom Portugal had long-standing good business relationships in the 19th century.

The tour will take you to many beautifully decorated rooms of the palace – like Tribunal Room, Assembly Room and Golden Room. They are filled with many historic furniture, paintings and sculptures. You will even find a cabinet used by the famous French engineer, Gustav Eiffel.

Where to find : Bolsa Palace is around 7-8 minutes walk from the Porto Cathedral and the Sao Bento Train Station.

Entrance Fees : Adult ticket costs € 10.

Opening Hours : Every day 9 am – 6:30 pm.

8. Marvel at Beautiful Azulejo Tiles at Sao Bento Station

Sao Bento Railway Station is arguably one of the prettiest railway stations in Portugal . Although the exterior looks quite simple, the stunningly detailed Portuguese azulejos tiles inside the station will certainly leave you spellbound. Visiting Sao Bento Station is one of the best things to do in Porto.  

The site, where the station stands today, used to be a Benedictine monastery. In fact, the station gets its name from that monastery. Constructed in French Beaux-Arts style, this place became operational in 1916. Today, Sao Bento is the main terminal of Porto’s suburban railway lines and is located in the historic centre of the city. Many tourist attractions of Porto are within walking distance from here.

A National Monument of Portugal , this station is famous for its elaborate tin-glazed white and blue-tiled murals. They are designed by painter Jorge Colaco, who also created the tiles for the nearby Church of Saint Ildefonso. There are approximately 20000 azulejo tiles adorning the walls of Sao Bento’s entrance hall. It took nearly eleven years to complete these murals.

They display significant historical moments of Portugal – like the battle of Valdevez and the conquest of Ceuta. Also, there are illustrations of different modes of transportation and the daily life of the country.

Where to find : Porto Metro service line D runs through Sao Bento Station. Also, there are frequent buses and trains to Sao Bento Station from other parts of the city.

9. See Porto's Finest View from Miradouro da Serra do Pilar

Located at an elevated plane in the Vila Nova de Gaia neighbourhood, the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar provides one of the best views of Porto. Just a short uphill walk from the Jardim do Morro metro station, this viewpoint is a must-visit for anyone visiting this Portuguese city.  

You will get breathtaking views of Dom Luis I bridge, the River Douro, the Ribeira and the bridges connecting Porto. Although the view is great at any time of the day, we would highly recommend coming here during the sunset. Watching the sun go down the city rooftops is an amazing experience. The view is stunning at night as well.

Adjacent to the viewing terrace is the Monastery of Serra do Pilar, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction work for the monastery began in the 15th century for the Augustinian Friars. Later, this monastery was used during the war due to its strategic location. Today some part of it is used by the army.  

The circular structure of the church and the cloister is one of its kind in Portugal. You can buy a ticket to see the 36 ionic columns in the church cloisters. Also, if interested, you can climb the dome of the monastery.

Where to find : Ride the metro service on line D to Jardim do Morro. The viewpoint is just a few minutes uphill walk from the metro station.

Entrance Fees : Viewpoint is free. Monastery of Serra do Pilar ticket costs €2 per person and €4 if you want to climb the dome.

Opening Hours : Viewpoint is open and accessible all the time. But the monastery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6:30 pm and closed on Monday.

10. Go on a Port Winery Tour

Porto is most famous for the port wine. Port got its name from this city where the fortified wines, produced from the grapes of the nearby Douro Valley, are exported to other countries in the world.

In Vila Nova de Gaia at the south of Porto, there are plenty of historic port lodges on the bank of River Douro. Port is aged and bottled in these port lodges before shipment. Some of these port lodges are over 350 years old. Port wine tasting is definitely one of the best things to do in Porto.

Sandeman Port House: Sandeman Port House is one of the oldest and most renowned port houses in Porto. Founded in 1790, they offer different types of guided tasting tours that run from 50 minutes to 3 hours.

The guides wear capes and sombrero hats. Their standard tour lasts about 50 minutes and costs 17 euros per adult. You will learn a lot of history of this port house and the production process.

At the end of the tour, you will get to taste three different port wines – white, ruby and tawny. 

Calem Port House: Established in 1859, Calem is one of the best-selling port manufacturers in Porto. They run guided tasting tours in four different languages. With the standard tour, you will have a tasting of two different port wines, and with the premier tour, they will offer you to taste three different port wines, including some of their vintages.

Also, you will have the option to include food pairing or a Fado show in your tasting tour. All their tours include an interactive museum which is quite unique.

Also, Graham, Burmester, and Taylors are well-recommended Port Houses that offer port tasting tours. 

11. Enjoy a Vintage Tram Ride

Riding the vintage tram is one of the fun things to do in Porto, especially if you are travelling with kids. Tram began operating in Porto in the late 19th century. In fact, this was the first city in Portugal to have tram services, followed by Lisbon. Once there was an extensive network of trams around the city. But in the 1960s, due to other cheaper modes of transportation, tram service got discontinued. Today only three tram routes remain, mostly used by tourists and a few locals.

Among the three routes, tram line 1 is the most scenic and the most popular one. You can ride it from the Infante stop, located right in front of the Monument Church Of St Francis. It follows the path along the northern bank of River Douro to Foz, one of the beautiful coastal areas in Porto. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful views along the way. You will get a magnificent view of the Arrabida Bridge. The entire journey takes about 20 minutes.

Tram lines 18 and 22 are not as popular as tram line 1, but they cover some of the popular historic attractions of Porto. Both the tram services follow a circular route. Line 18 starts from the Tram Museum and terminates near the Igreja do Carmo. Tram line 22 gives stops at Clerigos Tower, Sao Bento Metro Station, Batalha, Bolhão, Avenida dos Aliados.

Ticket Price : A single fare on the tram is €3.50 per person, and a return fare is €6 per person. A 2-days pass will cost you €10 per adult and €5 per child.

Tips : Tram line 1 can get very busy during peak hours. To avoid the crowd, ride the tram early in the morning or late in the evening.  

If you are interested in learning about the history of trams in Porto, we would suggest visiting the Porto Tram Museum.

12. Visit Igreja do Carmo

Igreja do Carmo is one of the prettiest churches in Porto . It is hard to realise at first glance, there are two separate churches joined by a very narrow house. The house in the middle was constructed to keep the nun and monks of the churches separate from each other.

Igreja do Carmo was built in the second half of the 18th century, and the neighbouring Igreja dos Carmelitas was made in the mid-17th century.

The side facade of Igreja do Carmo is decorated with beautiful white and blue ceramic tiles. This baroque church is a must-visit for anyone wanting to see and photograph the beautiful azulejos in Porto.  

The tiles were made in the nearby Vila Nova de Gaia and put on the wall in 1912. Designed by Silvestro Silvestri, it portrays scenes from the history of the Carmelite order and Mount Carmel.

Very close to the church, you will find the Fonte dos Leões , a fountain built for over 130 years, featuring four metal lion statues. It’s a nice little place to sit and relax.

If you are in this area, visit other nearby landmarks of Porto. A few meters from the church is the Livraria Lello. Also, the Clerigos Tower and church is just a few minute’s walks from here.

Where to find : The nearest metro station from Igreja do Carmo is Aliados, on the metro line D. From the station, the church is around 8 minutes walk away. Also, São Bento Station is not far from here.  

Opening Hours : Both the churches are open Monday to Friday from 7:15 am to 7 pm; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 9 am to 6:45 pm.

Entrance Fees : The church is free to visit. But if you want to visit the Carmo museum, catacombs and Casa Escondida, you need to buy a ticket for €3.50 per person.

13. Discover the Chapel of Souls

Known as Capela das Almas in Portuguese, the Chapel of Souls is located at the heart of Porto’s main shopping hub, Rua de Santa Catarina, in Santo Ildefonso district.  

This small chapel is famous for the stunning Portuguese tile art covering its exterior. It is one of the best places to see the beautiful azulejos in Porto. The Chapel of Souls was built in the 18th century. But the ceramic tiles you see today were placed in 1929. There are a total of 15,947 tiles designed by Eduardo Leche. The mural on the wall displays religious stories from the lives of the saints the chapel is devoted to – St. Catherine of Alexandria and St. Francis of Assisi.  

After admiring the outside of the church, take a look inside. The neo-classical interior is simple but beautiful, with stained glass windows and a decorated altarpiece.  

Tips : The Chapel of Souls stands near a junction of two busy roads. Come early in the morning to photograph the church without traffic and people.

This area is filled with bijou cafes and restaurants. Try some of the most delicious pastéis de nata in Porto at Manteigaria, Confeitaria do Bolhão and Fábrica da Nata.

Where to find : The chapel is just a stone’s throw away from the Bolhão metro station. Line A, B, C and F of Porto Metro runs from here.  

Entrance Fees : Free

Opening Hours : Daily 7:30 am – 7 pm.

14. Eat Delicious Portuguese Sandwich - Francesinha

When you are in Porto, you will have to try Francesinha – the most traditional Portuguese food associated with this city. Francesinha is a Portuguese adaption of Croque-monsieur (ham and cheese hot sandwich) that originated in France. Francesinha means ‘Little Frenchie’ in Portuguese. Legend has it a French immigrant customised Croque-monsieur to the taste of Portugal using some local ingredients when he moved to Porto. That’s how Francesinha became a popular food in Porto.

Francesinha is a sandwich made of bread, ham, steak, linguica (smoked Portuguese sausage) and melted cheese on top . It’s not that kind of a sandwich though that you can eat by hand. It usually comes with spicy tomato and beer sauce. However, it varies a bit depending on the restaurants. French fries and runny eggs are popular accompaniments with this dish. It doesn’t sound like the healthiest food on earth – but hey, who counts calories on holidays! Restaurante O Afonso , Cafe Santiago and Brasao Aliados are some of the best Francesinha in Porto .

If you are a vegetarian, don’t worry. Some restaurants like Lado B Café and Lupin Restaurante serve vegetarian versions. So, you won’t miss the fun of Francesinha.

15. Explore Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Another place in Porto to find the traditional artwork on azulejos is the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso or Church of Saint Ildefonso. Located right next to the Batalha Square, a historic public square, this Baroque church was built in 1739. However, the beautiful tiles you see on the exterior today was added later in 1932.  

It is hard to believe that there are around 11,000 tiles covering the facade of the bell towers . They showcases religious stories from the Gospels. Particularly the life of Saint Ildefonso, a 7th century Bishop of Toledo to whom the church is dedicated to. It was created by Portuguese painter Jorge Colaço, who also designed and painted the stunning murals at the São Bento Station.

Another highlight of the church is the baroque and rococo style retable on the main altar. It was created by the Italian artist and architect Nicolau Nasoni, whose work can also be seen in the Porto Cathedral, Igreja dos Clérigos among others.  

The nearby Rue Santa Catarina is the main shopping street of the city. If you are around here, definitely visit the famous Majestic Cafe. It is just a few minutes walk from Igreja de Santo Ildefonso.

Where to find : Take a metro ride to the Sao Bento Station. The church is around 7 minutes walk from the Station. Also, this area is served by trams and buses.

Opening Hours : Monday 3 pm to 6:30pm. Tuesday to Saturday 9 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 6:30 pm. Sunday: 9 am to 1 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm.

16. Monument Church Of St Francis

Founded around 1245, Monument Church of St Francis is one of the most prominent Gothic landmarks in Porto. Don’t get fooled by the church’s simple structure from the outside. The intricately decorated and heavily gilded Baroque interior will leave you spellbound.

Legend has it that the church’s impressive wood carvings are decorated with three hundred kilos of gold dust. One of the most impressive altarpieces is the Tree of Jesse by Filipe da Silva and Antonio Gomes. It depicts the family tree of Jesus.

After admiring the interiors of the church, visit the catacomb where the Franciscan monks and the influential people of Porto are buried.

There is also an ossuary with thousands of bones. You can see some of them through the glass floor. 

Where to find : Monument Church Of St Francis is about an 8-minute walk from the Sao Bento Train Station. Also, the scenic Porto Tram Linha 1 stops at Infante, right next to the church.

Entrance Fees : € 7.50 Adult.

Opening Hours : Daily. November – February 9am – 5:30pm. March – October 9am – 7pm. July – September 9am – 8pm.

17. Discover the Street Art of Porto

If you are interested in discovering urban street arts, Porto is the right place for you. The street art scene is relatively new here, but it’s growing fast. The stunning colourful works by local artists brighten up the otherwise dull vacant walls. It reminded us of Glasgow street murals of Scotland. A self-guided walking tour to visit these vibrant street artworks of Porto is one of the unique things to do in the city.

Some of the subjects of the paintings are abstract, while others are based upon local characters. Also, a few of them delivers a political and social message in it. So, while wandering around the city, look out for these colourful street artworks and graffitis.

One of our favourite street artwork is the Half Rabbit , created by Portuguese artist Bordalo II in the streets of Vila Nova da Gaia. This large mural shows a rabbit made of recycled materials and spare parts to create awareness about human wastefulness and sustainability. You can see more of this artist’s work in Lisbon.

While walking across the upper level of Dom Luis I Bridge, watch out for the AN.FI.TRI.AO mural. It shows an aged man extending his hand to welcome people in the city. Created by artist Frederico Draw, you can find this one on the side of a derelict building near the bridge.

The Don Quixote of La Mancha mural can be found in Rua de Miguel Bombarda. It is one of the earliest legal street art in Porto. Local artists Mesk, Fedor and Mots came together to create this quirky mural showcasing characters from the Spanish book.

Another one of our favourites is the Mira mural at a small square in Rua Nova da Alfândega in the Miragaia neighbourhood. If you are in this area, don’t miss the nearby Look at Porto mural on the wall of a movie theatre.

18. Majestic Cafe

Located in Santa Catarina Street, the main shopping street in Porto, Majestic Cafe is far more than just a coffee house – It is a popular tourist attraction of this city. The interior of this cafe is beautifully decorated in Art Nouveau style with wooden panels and plenty of Flemish mirrors. It will make you feel you have stepped back in the Belle Epoque era.

This historic coffee house first opened its door in 1922. Many dignitaries and influential people of Porto were regulars in this iconic cafe. From the 1960s, this cafe started losing its former glory, and in the mid-’90s it went through major renovation work to revive its original setting.

Majestic Cafe has a Harry Potter connection as well. If you are a potter fan, you would be delighted to know that author JK Rowling lived a few years in Porto in the early ‘90s, and she would come here very frequently. She was seen writing down ideas on the napkins. Some believe that she started writing her first Harry Potter book in this café. It would be an overstatement to say the food is too good but is worth a visit for the grand interior and the great ambience.

After stepping out of the cafe, head towards Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, which is just 2 minutes walk from here. You will get to see some beautiful works of azulejo tiles. Also, visit nearby Bolhao Market, which is more than 100 years old.

Opening Hours : Monday- Saturday 9 am – 11:30 pm. Sunday closed.

Where to find : Aliados on line D is the nearest metro station. The cafe is about 5 minutes walk from there.

19. Explore the Tranquil Gardens at Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

The Crystal Palace Gardens is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of Porto . If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax, this garden is a perfect spot. It is a tranquil urban oasis away from the crowd of the city.  

Set on a hill overlooking the Douro River, the garden is not too far from the popular tourist attractions of the historic centre of Porto. It also provides some of the best panoramic views of the city skyline and the nearby Douro River. Also, an excellent spot to catch a gorgeous sunset.

This 8-hectare landscape garden was built in the 19th century, and the layout was created by the German landscape gardener, Émille David.  

Take a leisurely stroll around the small themed gardens around the park, including the Garden of Feelings, the herb garden and a rose garden. They are well maintained and beautifully decorated with fountains and sculptures. If you are lucky, you might catch a few peacocks roaming around the grounds.  

The original palace, the garden is named after, does not exist anymore. It was demolished and replaced in the 1950s with a domed pavilion. Today it serves as a venue for concerts and sporting events. There are also cafes and restaurants inside the garden.

Where to find : The Jardins do Palacio de Cristal is around 15 minutes walk from the Clerigos Tower. Also, you can easily reach here by bus and tram.  

Opening Hours : Every day. April – September 8 am to 9 pm. October – March 8 am to 7 pm.  

Map of the Attractions in Porto

Here is a map of all the best attractions to visit and the best things to do in Porto. Click on the link to save the Google map on your phone. You can also use it offline. We have also marked famous places to eat and the stunning viewpoints around the city.

How to Get to Porto

With high speed trains, budget airlines, frequent bus services and well maintained highways – reaching Porto couldn’t be any easier.

Arriving Porto by Flight

Porto Airport (OPO) is situated approx 6.8 miles northwest of the Porto city centre. It is one of the busiest airports in Portugal and serves as an important hub in the north of this country. The airport is easily accessible by public transport. You will find car rental services, foreign currency exchange, shops, restaurants and cafes here.

There are direct flights to Porto from all the major European cities alongside domestic flights from other cities in Portugal. It is a base for Ryanair, EasyJet and TAP Air Portugal. Also, British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Vueling, Transavia, Iberia and Brussels Airlines operate flights to Porto.  

If you are travelling from a Non-European country, you have to transit through a major European Airport to reach here. Read below for more information about the flights from the UK.  

Flights from the UK

There are many regular flights from various cities in Great Britain. You can catch direct flights from London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh and Bristol. Flights from London typically take about 2 hours 30 min to arrive in Porto. Flights are operated by British Airways, TAP Air Portugal, as well as budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet. So, Porto should definitely be on your travel bucket list for a great weekend city break.

How to Reach Porto City Centre from the Airport

You can reach Porto city centre very easily by metro, bus, taxi and car from the airport. Porto Metro service is the easiest and most convenient way to get to the city centre. The airport is on the metro line E. To reach the city centre, you will have to change the metro line at Trindade subway station. It takes 26 minutes to get to Trindade. Trains run every 20 to 30 minutes, and a single ride ticket costs only €2.  

You can also catch bus services 601, 602 and 604 (operated by STCP ) to reach various locations around Porto from the airport. Journey time on the bus is much longer than on the metro. Also, Terravision operates a door to door shuttle bus service from the airport.

Private taxi service to the city centre costs around €20- €30 and will drop you in about 20 minutes.

Arriving Porto by Bus

You can also reach Porto by bus from other cities in Portugal. Rede Expressos operates a network of buses around the country. For the lowest price, buy your bus tickets online in advance. The bus from Lisbon takes around 3 hours 30 minutes to reach here and terminates in Campo 24 de Agosto. From there, you can ride the metro services to get to the city centre. Also, there are ALSA buses from Porto to Spain.  

The bus doesn’t run from a single bus station. Different bus companies arrive and depart from various places around Porto. So, it might be a little confusing.  

Arriving Porto by Trains

There are two main train stations in Porto. The Intercity train services stop at Campanha Railway Station , whereas the suburban local trains run through Sao Bento Railway Station .  

If you are coming from Lisbon, Faro, Coimbra or Braga, you can catch the high-speed train services to Porto, known as Alfa Pendular. There are also slower intercity trains between the major cities of Portugal. An intercity train connecting Lisbon to Porto takes over 3 hours. With the high-speed Alfa Pendular and Intercity services, you will find plenty of trains per day.

If you are planning to travel around Portugal by train, we would suggest buying the tickets online in advance. Tickets sell out very fast, especially in peak tourist seasons.

Arriving Porto by Car

If you prefer to drive to Porto, Portugal has good highway networks across the country. The A1 motorways connect Porto to Lisbon. Here’s an approx journey time and distance to Porto from other cities in Portugal:  

• From Lisbon- 3 hours 10 min/ 314 km
• From Coimbra- 1 hours 15 min/ 122 km
• From Braga- 40 min/ 57 km

How to Get Around Porto

Porto is a city best explored on foot. Most of the visitor attractions lie quite close to each other. Exploring the winding cobbled streets of this historic city is part of its charm. So, we will suggest wearing comfortable shoes as some parts of the city are a bit steep and hilly, especially the area from the city centre to Ribeira. If you are staying near the city centre, you don’t even have to use any transport.

That being said, Porto has an extensive network of the public transport system. You can get around the city by metro, bus and tram. They are cost-effective and efficient.  

There are six colour-coded metro lines – A, B, C, D, E and F. It is the quickest way to get around the city. A single metro ticket costs € 1.20. Also, you can buy an Andante card for €0.60, so you can recharge with as many journeys as you need. Don’t forget to validate your card every time you board the metro or change lines.

A bus is a great option to reach the places not covered by the metro. Also, there are three tram routes to help you get around the city. You can ride the funicular from the Ribeira to the Batalha square to avoid the steep walk. Also, there are many taxi services available throughout the city. So, getting around in Porto is easier than you might think.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Europe Chevron

Portugal Chevron

Porto Chevron

13 Best Hotels in Porto

By Abigail Malbon

While Lisbon remains a favorite weekend break destination, hot on its heels is Porto ; a city home to some of Portugal’s best hotels , with culture aplenty, arguably the most beautiful train station in the world, and port tastings available at every wine bar on every corner. The Douro Valley, Portugal’s most famous wine region, is just a two-hour scenic train ride away, while the city itself is home to the vertigo-inducing Luís Bridge (yes, you can climb it), stunning street art and a gluttonous local dish, the francesinha sandwich.

Whether you’re looking for a quirky boutique hotel, or somewhere to relax with views of the Douro river, this is our selection of the best hotels in Porto, starting off with a few favorites.

• Best hotel in Porto for design lovers: Torel 1884
• Best hotel in Porto for views of the Douro: Torel Avantgarde
• Best hotel in Porto for a prime location: PortoBay Flores
• Best hotel in Porto for affordability: Tipografia Do Conto
• Most tranquil hotel in Porto: Pestana Palicio do Freixo

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

1. Gran Cruz House

Best hotel in Porto for riverside dining

Overlooking the Douro River on the corner of one of the city’s oldest squares, this small design hotel is right in the thick of it. Inside, cooling ice cream colors welcome guests from the flurry outside—think pistachio-hued walls, mango-toned cushions, and a berry-red 17th-century facade. Seven boutique bedrooms are set across four floors, each inspired by a different Port Wine—the Pink room, for example, evokes hazy summer days, where bright colors and fun patterns give way to giant windows and a balcony looking out over the square. The restaurant, however, is this hotel’s crowning jewel. Inspired by Porto’s history and landscape, Casario is an ode to the city’s gastronomy and viniculture. Under the helm of Miguel Castro Silva, one of Portugal’s most famous chefs, the menu is uniquely split into cold dishes and hot dishes. Highlights include flaked bites of deep-fried skate with a hazelnut and celeriac puree and sea bass, pan-seared for extra crispy skin, served on a bed of creamy saffron rice—both of which I could have eaten endless servings of. — Olivia Morelli

Address : Praça da Ribeira - Viela do Buraco 19, Porto, 4050-132 Portugal Price : Rooms from $148 per night

2. Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection

Best hotel in Porto for modern elegance In the middle of Rua das Flores, one of Porto’s most iconic pedestrianized shopping streets, entering this hotel feels like you’ve stepped straight into the city’s ancient history. Built in the 16th century as a family home by Brás Brandão, a merchant nobleman, before becoming the headquarters of the Port company Real Companhia Velha. As a nod to the building’s past, staff host a bi-weekly tradition of ‘fire opening’ a bottle of Port for guests to learn more about the building’s history and the city’s port culture. The hotel’s design is a perfect blend of modern touches and traditional architecture; gold-panelled windows and mirrors feature in all of the rooms, paired with elegant minimalist furnishings and large marble bathrooms. Cathedral or garden rooms have the best views—depending on whether you prefer something tranquil or a lookout over the city. Stop by the spa for a slice of tranquillity, laze by the outdoor swimming pool with views of the cathedral, and be sure to drop into the hotel’s restaurant during your stay, where terra-cotta walls, backlit shelves of wine and fresh, local food welcome you. — Olivia Morelli

Address: Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection, R. das Flores 69, 4050-416 Porto Price : Doubles from about $131 per night

Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments Arrow

Best hotel in Porto for design lovers

Breakfast here isn’t just breakfast; it’s proof of how brilliant Portuguese design is right now. Elegantly tapered knives and forks, jade-green ceramics holding quince jelly, a chalky-white espresso cup indented with abstract patterns—all handcrafted by family-run ateliers. The rest of the hotel takes a similar outlook. In the plant-lined entrance, clay faces grimace and grin down at guests—gods on one side, earthly mortals on the other—the work of sculptor João Pedro Rodrigues, alluding to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Paying impressionistic homage to that era, three floors of high-windowed bedrooms riff on Africa, the Americas, and Asia with tactile compositions of raffia, cane, silk, leafy greens and Atlantic blues, a roar of tiger print. All about are heavily textured paintings by Jorge Curval—a black-and-white portrait of a gentleman in mustache and bicorne hat; a thick-daubed woman smoking a paint brush. Climb to the top banister, peer down at the patterned tiles, and it feels like watching a Portuguese Downton Abbey . When it comes to the country’s post-millennium boom, Lisbon gets most of the column inches but Porto is just as exciting, and this is an apt poster child for the city’s revival. — Rick Jordan

Address: R. de Mouzinho da Silveira N 228, 4050-417 Porto, Portugal Price : Doubles from about $142 per night

4. Torel Avantgarde

Best hotel in Porto for views of the Douro

If location is key, you’ll struggle to find better than Torel Avantgarde; a 60-room boutique hotel within walking distance of São Bento train station, Luís Bridge, and other local attractions, with arguably the best view of the Douro River in Porto. With an uninterrupted look out from the hotel’s outdoor pool, it feels like a slice of serenity even during a busy long weekend.

Each room at the hotel is themed differently around an artist, from Francis Bacon to Frida Kahlo, and as a result, you’re guaranteed a unique stay, even if you return. Our insider tip: If you can, book the Charlie Chaplin, Frida Kahlo, or Diego Rivera room for the biggest bathtub you’ve ever seen, with a stunning view out over the balcony. – Abigail Malbon

Address: Torel Avantgarde, Rua da Restauraçāo, 336, Porto, 4050-501 Price : Doubles from about $132 per night

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

CNT Editors

5. Rosa et al Townhouse

Best hotel in Porto for creative types

A boutique hotel, spa, restaurant, deli…for a small property, Rosa et al has a lot of substance. Everything is aesthetic, from the claw-foot bathtubs in the rooms to hand-crocheted throws on the beds, while the courtyard garden is a peaceful place to take five.

Known locally as a cultural hub, residents come for the much-loved brunch and stay for the spa. There are just six rooms available, each designed differently but with a focus on aesthetics. Top tip: The Garden Pavillion is particularly beautiful. – Abigail Malbon

Address: Rosa et al Townhouse, Rua do Rosário, 233, Porto, 4050-524 Price: Doubles from about $105 per night

6. Torel Palace Porto

Best hotel in Porto for history buffs

There are three Torel properties in total in Porto, and the Palace is a beautifully-located slice of history in the city center. Dating back to 1886, the original palace was restored and reopened in 2020 with a focus on its original elegance—from the library in the entrance hall to the winding staircase and stunning skylight. There’s a feeling of grandeur throughout the hotel, with enough modern touches to suit everyone; particularly in rooms, which house giant mirrored-covered bathrooms.

The hotel’s restaurant, Blind, is a particular highlight. A tribute to Portuguese writer José Saramago's novel Blindness , the ‘Emotions’ menu consists of 8 or 10 courses, each inspired by childhood memories of chef Vítor Matos.

Address : Torel Palace Porto, Rua de Entreparedes N. 42, Porto, 4000-197 Price : Doubles from about $137 per night

7. PortoBay Flores

Best hotel in Porto for a prime location

Set in a 16th-century palace, the hotel has recently undergone a renovation but aims to retain much of its original detailing; from the wrought-iron balconies to original granite flooring in the entrance and tiles throughout. There are 66 rooms in total—55 in the new building and 11 in the old mansion—and top floor rooms offer a beautiful view of the city’s terra-cotta roofs.

Those who are new to Porto are likely to be impressed by the hotel’s location, with almost all of the main sights within walking distance.

Address: PortoBay Flores, Rua das Flores, 27, 4050-416, Porto Price : Doubles from about $128 per night

8. Exmo Hotel

Best hotel in Porto for quirky touches

Porto’s pretty townhouses sit along the river, bringing classic Portuguese colors to the landscape. Among them is Exmo hotel, a standout building with a bright ochre exterior, home to 16 rooms over four floors—and while the building itself is traditional, the interior is anything but. Rooms feature unusual design details, from brightly-colored velvet armchairs resting against original stone walls to huge walk-in showers. Artworks and sculptures by local artists are on display throughout the hotel, and the bar pays homage to the building’s warehouse roots—the metal beams and industrial feel in the bar would be at home in a downtown New York location.

Address: Exmo Hotel, Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 55-61, 4050-297 Porto Price: Doubles from about $124 per night

The Yeatman Hotel Arrow

Best hotel in Porto for wine lovers

The Yeatman’s star attraction is, undoubtedly, the decanter shaped pool and terrace that allows you to enjoy the view of Porto’s winding streets from the other side of the river. The hotel has six storys, but domineering tower block it is not; each floor is arranged on the banks of the Douro, giving guests a lookout no matter which room they stay in.

Those who visit Porto with a plan to enjoy as many wines as possible will love this property, which is heavily focused on the local tipple; images of vineyards decorate the walls, while there’s a cellar available to tour between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Be sure to check into the Michelin-starred restaurant while you’re there to enjoy the traditional flavors of Portugal. – Abigail Malbon

Address: The Yeatman, Rua do Choupelo, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia Price: Doubles from about $234 per night

10. The Artist

Best hotel in Porto for creatives

Unsurprisingly, art is the focus at this hotel, which focuses on its art college heritage as the theme. Around 150 artworks are on display throughout, and nosier guests will enjoy looking closer at student grades from as far back as the 1960s. Rooms are simple but spacious, but it’s the restaurant, A Escola’s, degustation menu that’s the real star of the show, thanks to the creative dishes on offer. Choose between five or seven dishes, all beautifully presented in keeping with the hotel’s theme of art. – Abigail Malbon

Address : The Artist, R. da Firmeza 49, 4000-228 Porto Price : Doubles from about $148 per night

11. M.Ou.Co

Best hotel in Porto for music lovers

Opened in April 2022, this hotel is something new for Porto: a music-focused property with a 180-seated or 300-standing concert hall, a music library featuring 600 vinyls for guest use and even a music therapy room. But while there's a focus on music, the final result feels cool rather than gimmicky—think 1970s-inspired decor courtesy of exposed walls and vintage wooden furniture, with leather and rattan furniture (and the odd plant). By request, a complimentary record player, guitar, and keyboard can all be hired from reception to be used in the bedrooms, should you wish to flex your musical muscles during your stay.

Facilities at the hotel include a small pool, which becomes particularly busy in the warmer months—during high season, you'll struggle to secure a lounger. There's a bar serving lunch and drinks (cocktails are particularly good; the blueberry mojito comes highly recommended) while breakfast and supper are served in the hotel's restaurant. Guests are varied, with couples, families and, of course, musicians taking advantage of the affordable room rates.

The motto here is Stay, Listen, Play, but should you wish to explore there's plenty on your doorstep. Found in the up-and-coming cool neighborhood of Bonfim, this property isn't as central as many Porto hotels—but it's worth bearing in mind that the city is very small (it's a pleasant 20-minute walk to São Bento station, for example), so it's actually a great way to see a new side of Porto, particularly if it's not your first time in the city. – Abigail Malbon

Address : R. de Frei Heitor Pinto 65, 4300-252 Porto Price : Rooms from $69

12. Tipografia Do Conto

Best hotel in Porto for affordability

You'll find one of Europe's nicest affordable stays in a 19th century former workshop and warehouse in Porto. Originally used as a printing press, the history of the building is referenced throughout: in the bar, hundreds of independent titles are displayed; the ceilings are engraved with phrases by different artists; and the wooden façade in the courtyard resembles the drawers used for storing fonts. There are only 10 rooms, some face the courtyard, while others overlook the city. There’s no restaurant—breakfast is served in the green-tiled bar—but plenty of hot tables are nearby in the emerging Cedofeita area; try Namban and Early Cedofeita. One of the best things about it, however, is the secret garden with its swimming pool and a hammock strung at one end. It’s perfect for hanging out with a glass of port or Vinho Verde, surrounded only by the sound of birds and a rare moment of stillness in this otherwise happening neighborhood.

13. Pestana Palicio do Freixo

Best hotel in Porto for tranquillity

Those who have been to Porto before might not be quite so concerned about seeing the main tourist attractions; in which case the Pestana Palicio, located further down the river, is ideal. Classified in 1910 as a national monument, the restored Baroque-style palace and surrounding gardens are welcoming, with soaring indoor dining areas and spectacular open views of the river.

The hotel has 87 rooms in total, with superior rooms offering a river view. If you stay in summer, it’s a great time to make use of the outdoor pool or to grab a sundowner from the poolside bar. – Abigail Malbon

Address: Pestana Palicio do Freixo, Estrada Nacional 108, 4300-316 Campanhã , Porto Price : Doubles from about $199 per night

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Porto, Portugal

The perfect 5 days itinerary.

Porto, also known as Oporto, is Portugal's second-largest city and a bustling industrial and commercial center. The city is best known for its stately bridges and port wine production. In the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district, narrow cobbled streets wind past merchants’ houses and cafes. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with the modern, minimalist Museu de Arte Contemporânea and the grand, baroque-style Clérigos Church .

What to do in Porto?

This 5 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Porto. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Porto

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Livraria Lello , one of the world's most beautiful bookstores. Then, head to the Clérigos Church and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Explore the Ribeira district with its narrow, cobbled streets and traditional houses. Visit the Palácio da Bolsa , a historical building with impressive neoclassical architecture.

Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal at one of the many riverside restaurants in Ribeira.

Day 2: Exploring Porto's Art and Culture

Visit the Serralves Museum , a contemporary art museum set in a beautiful park. Then, head to the Casa da Música , a modern concert hall with a unique design.

Explore the Foz do Douro neighborhood, known for its beaches and seafront promenade. Visit the Pergola da Foz , a romantic spot with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants in Matosinhos , a nearby city known for its fresh fish and seafood.

Day 3: A Day of Wine and History

Take a boat tour on the Douro River and enjoy the beautiful views of the city and its bridges. Visit the Porto Wine Cellars and learn about the production of the famous Port wine.

Visit the Soares dos Reis National Museum , which houses a vast collection of Portuguese art. Then, explore the Crystal Palace Gardens , a beautiful park with stunning views of the city.

Enjoy a wine tasting session at one of the many wine bars in the city.

Day 4: Exploring the Surroundings of Porto

Take a day trip to Guimarães , a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. Visit the Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza .

Continue your exploration of Guimarães with a visit to the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Church of São Miguel do Castelo , where the first King of Portugal was baptized.

Return to Porto and enjoy a relaxing evening at one of the city's many wine bars.

Day 5: A Day of Leisure and Shopping

Visit the Bolhão Market , a traditional market where you can buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and other Portuguese specialties.

Explore the Santa Catarina Street , the main shopping street in Porto. Visit the Majestic Café , a historic café known for its Belle Époque architecture.

End your trip with a visit to the Porto Cruz Space , a modern and interactive space dedicated to Port wine. Enjoy a final tasting of Port wine while enjoying the panoramic views of the city.

Was this helpful?

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best hotels in Porto

By Abigail Malbon

While Lisbon remains a favourite weekend break destination, hot on its heels is Porto ; a city home to some of Portugal’s best hotels , with culture aplenty, arguably the most beautiful train station in the world and port tastings available at every wine bar on every corner. The Douro Valley, Portugal ’s most famous wine region, is just a two-hour scenic train ride away, while the city itself is home to the vertigo-inducing Luís Bridge (yes, you can climb it), stunning street art and a gluttonous local dish, the francesinha sandwich.

Whether you’re looking for a quirky boutique hotel, or somewhere to relax with views of the Douro river, this is our selection of the best hotels in Porto.

How we choose the best hotels in Porto

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service – as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.

1. Gran Cruz House

Best hotel in Porto for: riverside dining

Overlooking the Douro River on the corner of one of the city’s oldest squares, this small design hotel is right in the thick of it. Inside, cooling ice-cream colours welcome guests from the flurry outside – think pistachio-hued walls, mango-toned cushions and a berry-red 17th-century facade. Seven boutique bedrooms are set across four floors, each inspired by a different Port Wine – the Pink room, for example, evokes hazy summer days, where bright colours and fun patterns give way to giant windows and a balcony looking out over the square. The restaurant, however, is this hotel’s crowning jewel. Inspired by Porto ’s history and landscape, Casario is an ode to the city’s gastronomy and viniculture. Under the helm of Miguel Castro Silva, one of Portugal’s most famous chefs, the menu is uniquely split into cold dishes and hot dishes. Highlights include flaked bites of deep-fried skate with a hazelnut and celeriac puree and sea bass, pan-seared for extra crispy skin, served on a bed of creamy saffron rice – both of which I could have eaten endless servings of. Olivia Morelli

Address : Praça da Ribeira - Viela do Buraco 19, Porto, 4050-132 Portugal Price : rooms from £140 per night

2. Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection

Best hotel in Porto for: modern elegance In the middle of Rua das Flores, one of Porto’s most iconic pedestrianised shopping streets, entering this hotel feels like you’ve stepped straight into the city’s ancient history. Built in the 16th century as a family home by Brás Brandão, a merchant nobleman, before becoming the headquarters of the Port company Real Companhia Velha. As a nod to the building’s past, staff host a bi-weekly tradition of ‘fire opening’ a bottle of Port for guests to learn more about the building’s history and the city’s port culture. The hotel’s design is a perfect blend of modern touches and traditional architecture; gold-panelled windows and mirrors feature in all of the rooms, paired with elegant minimalist furnishings and large marble bathrooms. Cathedral or garden rooms have the best views – depending on whether you prefer something tranquil or a lookout over the city. Stop by the spa for a slice of tranquillity, laze by the outdoor swimming pool with views of the cathedral, and be sure to drop into the hotel’s restaurant during your stay, where terracotta walls, backlit shelves of wine and fresh, local food welcome you. Olivia Morelli

Address: Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection, R. das Flores 69, 4050-416 Porto Price : Doubles from about £124 per night

3. Torel 1884

Best hotel in Porto for: design-lovers

Breakfast here isn’t just breakfast; it’s proof of how brilliant Portuguese design is right now. Elegantly tapered knives and forks, jade-green ceramics holding quince jelly, a chalky-white espresso cup indented with abstract patterns – all handcrafted by family-run ateliers. The rest of the hotel takes a similar outlook. In the plant-lined entrance, clay faces grimace and grin down at guests – gods on one side, earthly mortals on the other – the work of sculptor João Pedro Rodrigues, alluding to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Paying impressionistic homage to that era, three floors of high-windowed bedrooms riff on Africa , the Americas and Asia with tactile compositions of raffia, cane, silk, leafy greens and Atlantic blues, a roar of tiger print. All about are heavily textured paintings by Jorge Curval – a black-and-white portrait of a gentleman in moustache and bicorne hat; a thick-daubed woman smoking a paint brush. Climb to the top banister, peer down at the patterned tiles, and it feels like watching a Portuguese Downton Abbey . When it comes to the country’s post-millennium boom, Lisbon gets most of the column inches but Porto is just as exciting, and this is an apt poster child for the city’s revival. By Rick Jordan

Address: R. de Mouzinho da Silveira N 228, 4050-417 Porto, Portugal Price : Doubles from about £135 per night

4. Torel Avantgarde

Best hotel in Porto for: views of the Douro

If location is key, you’ll struggle to find better than Torel Avantgarde ; a 49-room boutique hotel within walking distance of São Bento train station, Luís Bridge and other local attractions, with arguably the best view of the Douro River in Porto. With an uninterrupted look out from the hotel’s outdoor pool, it feels like a slice of serenity even during a busy 72-hour city break .

Each room at the hotel is themed differently around an artist, from Francis Bacon to Frida Kahlo, and as a result, you’re guaranteed a unique stay, even if you return. Our insider tip: if you can, book the Charlie Chaplin, Frida Kahlo or Diego Rivera room for the biggest bathtub you’ve ever seen, with a stunning view out over the balcony. Read our full review of Torel Avantgarde .

Address: Torel Avantgarde, Rua da Restauraçāo, 336, Porto, 4050-501 Price : Doubles from about £125 per night

5. Rosa et al Townhouse

Best hotel in Porto for: creative types

A boutique hotel, spa, restaurant, deli… for a small property, Rosa et al has a lot of substance. Everything is aesthetic, from the claw-foot bathtubs in the rooms to hand-crocheted throws on the beds, while the courtyard garden is a peaceful place to take five.

Known locally as a cultural hub, residents come for the much-loved brunch and stay for the spa. There are just six rooms available, each designed differently but with a focus on aesthetics. Top tip: the Garden Pavillion is particularly beautiful.

Address: Rosa et al Townhouse, Rua do Rosário, 233, Porto, 4050-524 Price: Doubles from about £100 per night

6. Torel Palace Porto

Best hotel in Porto for: history buffs

There are three Torel properties in total in Porto, and the Palace is a beautifully-located slice of history in the city centre. Dating back to 1886, the original palace was restored and reopened in 2020 with a focus on its original elegance – from the library in the entrance hall to the winding staircase and stunning skylight. There’s a feeling of grandeur throughout the hotel, with enough modern touches to suit everyone; particularly in rooms, which house giant mirrored-covered bathrooms.

The hotel’s restaurant, Blind, is a particular highlight. A tribute to Portuguese writer José Saramago´s novel Blindness , the ‘Emotions’ menu consists of eight or 10 courses, each inspired by childhood memories of chef Vítor Matos.

Address : Torel Palace Porto, Rua de Entreparedes N. 42, Porto, 4000-197 Price : Doubles from about £130 per night

7. PortoBay Flores

Best hotel in Porto for: Location

Set in a 16th-century palace, the hotel has recently undergone a renovation but aims to retain much of its original detailing; from the wrought-iron balconies to original granite flooring in the entrance and tiles throughout. There are 66 rooms in total – 55 in the new building and 11 in the old mansion – and top floor rooms offer a beautiful view of the city’s terracotta roofs.

Those who are new to Porto are likely to be impressed by the hotel’s location, with almost all of the main sights within walking distance.

Address: PortoBay Flores, Rua das Flores, 27, 4050-416, Porto Price : Doubles from about £121 per night

8. Exmo Hotel

Best hotel in Porto for: Quirky touches

Porto’s pretty townhouses sit along the river, bringing classic Portuguese colours to the landscape. Among them is Exmo hotel, a stand-out building with a bright ochre exterior, home to 16 rooms over four floors – and while the building itself is traditional, the interior is anything but. Rooms feature unusual design details, from brightly-coloured velvet armchairs resting against original stone walls to huge walk-in showers. Artworks and sculptures by local artists are on display throughout the hotel, and the bar pays homage to the building’s warehouse roots – the metal beams and industrial feel in the bar would be at home in a downtown New York location.

Address: Exmo Hotel, Rua do Infante D. Henrique, 55-61, 4050-297 Porto Price: Doubles from about £118 per night

Sarah James

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Karthika Gupta

9. The Yeatman

Best hotel in Porto for: Wine lovers

The Yeatman’s star attraction is, undoubtedly, the decanter shaped pool and terrace that allows you to enjoy the view of Porto’s winding streets from the other side of the river. The hotel has six storeys, but domineering tower block it is not; each floor is arranged on the banks of the Douro, giving guests a lookout no matter which room they stay in.

Those who visit Porto with a plan to enjoy as many wines as possible will love this property, which is heavily focused on the local tipple; images of vineyards decorate the walls, while there’s a cellar available to tour between 4pm and 6pm. Be sure to check into the Michelin-starred restaurant while you’re there to enjoy the traditional flavours of Portugal.

Address: The Yeatman, Rua do Choupelo, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia Price: Doubles from about £222 per night

10. The Artist

Best hotel in Porto for: Creatives

Unsurprisingly, art is the focus at this hotel, which focuses on its art college heritage as the theme. Around 150 artworks are on display throughout, and nosier guests will enjoy looking closer at student grades from as far back as the 1960s. Rooms are simple but spacious, but it’s the restaurant, A Escola’s, degustation menu that’s the real star of the show, thanks to the creative dishes on offer. Choose between five or seven dishes, all beautifully presented in keeping with the hotel’s theme of art.

Address : The Artist, R. da Firmeza 49, 4000-228 Porto Price : Doubles from about £140 per night

11. M.Ou.Co

Best hotel in Porto for: music-lovers

Opened in April 2022, this hotel is something new for Porto: a music-focused property with a 180-seated or 300-standing concert hall, a music library featuring 600 vinyls for guest use and even a music therapy room. But while there's a focus on music, the final result feels cool rather than gimmicky – think 1970s-inspired decor courtesy of exposed walls and vintage wooden furniture, with leather and rattan furniture (and the odd plant). By request, a complimentary record player, guitar and keyboard can all be hired from reception to be used in the bedrooms, should you wish to flex your musical muscles during your stay.  Facilities at the hotel include a small pool, which becomes particularly busy in the warmer months – during high season, you'll struggle to secure a lounger. There's a bar serving lunch and drinks (cocktails are particularly good; the blueberry Mojito comes highly recommended) while breakfast and supper are served in the hotel's restaurant. Guests are varied, with couples, families and, of course, musicians taking advantage of the affordable room rates.  The motto here is Stay. Listen. Play, but should you wish to explore there's plenty on your doorstep. Found in the up-and-coming cool neighbourhood of Bonfim, this property isn't as central as many Porto hotels – but it's worth bearing in mind that the city is very small (it's a pleasant 20-minute walk to São Bento station, for example), so it's actually a great way to see a new side of Porto, particularly if it's not your first time in the city.

Address : R. de Frei Heitor Pinto 65, 4300-252 Porto Price : Rooms from £65

12. Tipografia Do Conto

You'll find one of Europe's nicest affordable stays in a 19th century former workshop and warehouse in Porto. Originally used as a printing press, the history of the building is referenced throughout: in the bar, hundreds of independent titles are displayed; the ceilings are engraved with phrases by different artists; and the wooden façade in the courtyard resembles the drawers used for storing fonts. There are only 10 rooms, some face the courtyard, while others overlook the city. There’s no restaurant – breakfast is served in the green-tiled bar – but plenty of hot tables are nearby in the emerging Cedofeita area; try Namban and Early Cedofeita. One of the best things about it, however, is the secret garden with its swimming pool and a hammock strung at one end. It’s perfect for hanging out with a glass of Port or Vinho Verde, surrounded only by the sound of birds and a rare moment of stillness in this otherwise happening neighbourhood.

13. Pestana Palicio do Freixo

Best hotel in Porto for: tranquillity

Those who have been to Porto before might not be quite so concerned about seeing the main tourist attractions; in which case the Pestana Palicio, located further down the river, is ideal. Classified in 1910 as a national monument, the restored Baroque-style palace and surrounding gardens are welcoming, with soaring indoor dining areas and spectacular open views of the river.

The hotel has 87 rooms in total, with superior rooms offering a river view. If you stay in summer, it’s a great time to make use of the outdoor pool or to grab a sundowner from the poolside bar.

Address: Pestana Palicio do Freixo, Estrada Nacional 108, 4300-316 Campanhã , Porto Price : Doubles from about £189 per night

A weekend in Porto: travel guide, attractions and things to do

Everything you need to know for a break in Portugal’s enchanting second city

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

1. Why you should visit Porto

2. top attractions: things to see and do, 3. hotels and accommodation: where to stay, 4. transport: flights and cruises, 5. eating and drinking: restaurants, bars, wine and port, 6. what the locals say….

The home of port wine, Portugal’s enchanting second city also offers a winning blend of austere architecture and cutting-edge design, plus buzzy bars and beaches, just up the Douro river.

World of Wine Porto review: a journey from root to vine to palate Portugal travel guide: best hotels and experiences

Many tourists going to Portugal will choose between visiting the capital Lisbon or Porto, said the Abroad with Ash travel blog, “I would say Porto should be your first pick”. Porto “packs a lot into a small city”, it’s 100% walkable, the entrance to the stunning Douro Valley wine region, has “better restaurants and hotels (in my opinion)”, feels safer, and offers a lot more “old-world charm”. Lisbon is cool but Porto is “more unique and memorable”.

Porto is undergoing a “magical moment of rejuvenation” and helping drive the transformation is a “resurgent cultural scene”, said destination expert Oliver Balch in The Telegraph . But the city is not about to “tart itself up and pimp itself out” for the tourists just yet, Portuenses “love their old world ways too much to give them up”. In short, what’s on offer is “the best of both worlds”.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Buildings and museums

Porto is bursting with beautiful structures: blue-tiled churches here, Eiffel-designed bridges there. Be sure to gasp at twin-towered Sé do Porto cathedral – and climb to its mesmerising miradouro (lookout) – and nearby Sao Bento station’s blue-and-white azulejo tiles. Then, for more modern kicks, admire Casa da Musica , a concert hall hewn from stark white concrete, and the Serralves , Portugal’s finest contemporary art museum. The Clérigos Tower, a 75-metre bell tower, which “watches lovingly over the city”, is arguably Porto’s most iconic silhouette, said Time Out . “Given its prominent position, you can get some amazing 360° views of the city from the top, but you’ll have to climb 225 steps to get there.”

World of Wine

Five years in the making, the World of Wine is, as the name suggests, a homage to all of the elements that go into producing your favourite tipple. The 55,000sqm site sits just below the famous Yeatman Hotel, with an expansive square at its heart and spectacular views down to the Douro river and the Dom Luís I Bridge. There’s museums, restaurants, shops and experiences to enjoy in Porto’s wine district.

Port experiences

On the Douro river’s southern shore, a 15-minute drive from Porto’s centre, is Vila Nova de Gaia (aka Gaia) and the original old port lodges of companies like Cockburn’s and Croft. Take in a tasting or a walking tour.

Potter in Porto

Livraria Lello is one of the world’s oldest bookstores and frequently ranked as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, said Harrison Jacobs on Business Insider . Many say that it was the “direct inspiration” for J.K. Rowling and her Harry Potter books – the author lived in Porto from 1991 to 1993. Every day thousands of Potter fans flock to Livraria Lello and this “can make the cramped bookstore feel like a tourist trap”. Despite the crowds, “I still enjoyed my visit”.

A glut of design-focused, multipurpose spaces have materialised in recent years, most hawking desirable handmade products. Lobo Taste and Scar.ID are two such, while Armazém is an old wine warehouse turned cafe, gallery and shops, selling everything from vintage clocks to chic handbags.

Porto’s chicest residents clink pink port and tonics at The Yeatman's suntrap rooftop. Set on the calmer side of Porto away from the bustle at the heart of the city, The Yeatman lies on the south bank of the mouth of the Douro river nestled amongst the old port wine warehouses. Its vantage point means it’s blessed with magnificent views across the waters, taking in the spectacular Luís I Bridge and the city itself.

The Yeatman Porto review: a luxury hotel for wine lovers Vila Foz Hotel & Spa review: a luxurious palace in Porto

Take a 15-minute drive from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, Porto’s main travel hub, and you reach the striking Vila Foz Hotel & Spa ; it takes its name from the locale in which it sits, one of Porto’s swankier districts.

The Yeatman got a 9/10 expert rating in The Telegraph ’s list of Porto’s best hotels. Other properties to get that mark include Torel Palace, “one of the finest examples of Porto’s period of romantic architecture”, and the InterContinental Porto, a five-star “gem” in the city’s accommodation crown.

The main international airport, Francisco Sá Carneiro , is located around 12km north of Porto’s city centre. Visitors from the UK can fly into Porto direct from a number of airports, including Birmingham (Ryanair), Bristol (easyJet), Edinburgh (Ryanair), Liverpool (Ryanair and Transavia), London Gatwick (British Airways, easyJet, TAP), London Luton (easyJet and Wizz Air), London Stansted (Ryanair), and Manchester (easyJet and Ryanair).

Porto is also a popular cruise destination – its main terminal is located at the Port of Leixões , less than 5km away from the city. River cruises in Porto and the Douro are also very popular with visitors.

Where to eat

If you want a taste of Porto then head to one of the three restaurants that have been awarded one Michelin star : Restaurant Vila Foz (contemporary cuisine), Antiqvvm (creative) and Pedro Lemos (modern). In Diferente (international) was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand.

Petiscos (Portuguese tapas) are available in most bars and restaurants, but the classic snack is something saltier. “Being so near to the sea, Porto is famous for its fish,” said Margarida Ribeiro, an editor of Porto Tasty . “I suggest Taberna São Pedro: it’s a very traditional seafood restaurant that few tourists know.”

Where to drink

A bookstore focused on art and cinema by day, Café Candelabro transforms into a bar after-dark, although many guests congregate on the pavement just outside. It’s the kind of place that is effortlessly but unpretentiously hip: everyone’s friendly and welcoming. Bottles of Super Bock beer cost only a few euros and DJs play late on weekends.

Wine and port

The most well-known wine region in Portugal is the Douro Valley – the wines produced here have become “legendary”, said Meagan Drillinger in Travel + Leisure . Here, visitors can taste the esteemed port, as well as other Douro wines, Muscat, and sparkling varieties. Of course, it’s possible to sample local ports without leaving the city of Porto. Cross the river into Vila Nova de Gaia, which boasts a majority of the port storehouses and hosts frequent tastings. “We especially love Porto In A Bottle, Touriga Vinhos de Portugal, and Vinologia, for port samplings,” Drillinger said.

In his local’s guide in The Guardian , Oliver Balch suggested that if you’re doing a “whistlestop” visit to Porto then a guided tour is probably a good idea. “Porto’s tourist route is now well-worn, but wonderful nonetheless,” he said. The destination expert also gave an insider’s tip in his guide on The Telegraph . One “city hack” is to make use of Porto’s “fantastic” metro that takes you right to the heart of the city for just €2.60 (£2.20). “Most central destinations are then just a short walk or cab ride from Trinidade station.”

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

Talking Points The iconic electric vehicle's board must convince shareholders it's worth awarding their tech titan CEO a $50 billion pay compensation package — or he might walk

By Rafi Schwartz, The Week US Published 7 June 24

Speed Read Boeing’s Starliner docked at the ISS and SpaceX completed its fourth test launch of its Starship spacecraft

By Peter Weber, The Week US Published 7 June 24

Instant Opinion Opinion, comment and editorials of the day

By Justin Klawans, The Week US Published 7 June 24

The Week Recommends Modern vibrancy, design legacy and ancient heritage puts Mexico's jewel alongside other art capitals of the world

By Harriet Marsden, The Week UK Published 26 February 24

The Week recommends Explore the natural beauty, windswept beaches and crystal-clear waters of Eleuthera

By The Week UK Published 28 January 24

The Week Recommends Plan your trip to the Scottish capital

By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published 13 January 24

The Week Recommends This hotel is the perfect spot to while away a weekend in Ireland's capital

By Kaye O'Doherty Published 9 January 24

The Week Recommends There's far more to Rio than just mountains, beaches, music and dance

By Tom Yarwood Published 7 January 24

Feature It wasn't all bad!

By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published 4 January 24

The Week Recommends Featuring stylish island resorts, historical properties and wilderness retreats

By The Week UK Last updated 3 June 24

The Week Recommends The Urner Haute Route features some of the wildest terrain in the Alps

By The Week UK Last updated 2 January 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

Budget Travel With Gabby

Travel tips, budget travel guides, volunteering stories, more!

22 Best Things To Do In Porto, Portugal

After living and working in this amazing city for one month, I’ve compiled a list of the 22 best things to do in Porto, Portugal!

Porto is a captivating city in northwest Portugal full of culture, beauty, and cuisine. Though it’s sometimes overshadowed by the capital, Lisbon, I think Porto is the absolute best city in Portugal !

Packed with amazing activities and attractions, you could never run out of things to do in Porto.

I spent one month here, volunteering in Nice Way Hostel located right off Praça da Liberdade, the main square in the Old Town.

During my time in Porto, I grew more enchanted by this city with each passing day. Shopping at the local markets, getting lost in the scenic alleyways, watching sunsets from the Dom Luís I Bridge, all of these things became part of my daily life and I honestly loved it.

I never tired of the grand architecture, particularly the gorgeous azulejo tilework that covered churches and train stations. Throw in the landscaped gardens, the stunning Ribeira along the water, and the random pieces of street art and you’ve got one of the most beautiful cities in Europe .

On top of the beauty, there are just so many fun activities in Porto! You can go surfing, wine-tasting, and bar-hopping. You can drink port wine, eat Portuguese delights, and listen to Fado music.

Or you can just wander around with no plan and admire every inch of this dazzling place.

Here are my favorite things to do in Porto, Portugal!

The 22 Best Things To Do In Porto, Portugal

Here are some of the best things to do in Porto, Portugal! Many of these attractions and activities are free, which is perfect for budget travelers .

For each Porto attraction I’ll mention how much it costs so you can budget for your Portugal trip. But overall, Portugal is a super affordable country which is awesome!

1. Admire the architecture of the Old Town

The Old Town of Porto, also known as the Ribeira neighborhood, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and probably the most beautiful part of the city.

Walking down the winding, cobblestone streets of the Old Town lets you admire the colorful, intricate architecture and tiling of the area up close. With vibrant hues and detailed designs, even the most insignificant of buildings are mesmerizing.

• Cost : Free

2. Hang out by the Ribeira Waterfront

If you’re looking for the most scenic neighborhood in Porto, the Ribeira is probably it. Nestled along the banks of the Douro River, this historic district exudes Old World charm with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and bustling waterfront promenade.

This is a great place to walk around, people-watch, and admire the sunrise or sunset over the city.

From its charming cafes and restaurants to its lively street performers and traditional Rabelo boats bobbing in the harbor, Ribeira is a captivating part of Porto, Portugal.

• Cost : Free, or 1 Euro if you get a coffee from a cafe

3. Climb to the top of Torre dos Clérigos

Climbing to the top of the The Torre dos Clérigos is one of the best things to do in Porto for those who love a panoramic viewpoint! (and who doesn’t?)

This magnificent Baroque tower from the 18th Century branches upward off the Clérigos Church. You can enter through the church and admire the religious decorations, then pay 8 Euros to climb the winding staircase up the tower.

Though Torre dos Clérigos is not free, it is still definitely worth visiting! The entry fee is quite cheap at 8 Euros, and the view of Porto and the Douro River from the top is breathtaking.

• Cost : 6 Euros

4. Take a day trip

When I had a day off work in Porto, I loved taking day trips to nearby cities and towns. Porto is the major city in northern Portugal, but it’s surrounded by lots of charming rural towns.

Porto is also well-connected to nearby locations by its incredible train system. Trains are super cheap and reliable, making it really easy to explore outside the city.

Aveiro, Braga, and Viana Do Costelo were my favorite day trips from Porto.

• Cost : Round-trip train tickets cost around 10 Euros on Bookaway or in person at the station. A guided tour is around 50 Euros.

Check out my Budget Travel Guide to Aveiro, Portugal !

5. Do a port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia

Port wine in Portugal is not just a drink; it’s a centuries-old tradition. Produced exclusively in the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, port wine is a strong, sweet, fortified wine that is cherished around the world.

Though port wine is grown in the Douro Valley, it is processed and ages in Vila Nova da Gaia. This city located just south of Porto across the Douro River has some of the world’s most famous port wine cellars.

You can walk across Dom Luís I Bridge and explore some of the port wine cellars of Vila Nova da Gaia on foot. Taylor’s , Burmester , Cálem , and Graham’s are some of the top cellars to visit.

Or join a guided walking tour that takes you to a combination of the best wineries. Either way, a port wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Porto.

• Cost: A guided wine tasting tour is only 15 Euros, so it’s worth having the immersive guided experience!

6. Do a port wine tasting in the Duoro Valley

Another option for wine tasting in Porto is taking a day trip out to the Douro Valley. Though you can sample port wine in the cellars of Vila Nova da Gaia, real wine enthusiasts can book a tour out to the rippling green hills where the grapes grow.

This is a more in-depth, educational wine experience as you can chat with wine makers and learn about the growing process. You also get to explore a lush, fertile, beautiful part of northern Portugal.

• Cost: A full day tour costs around 85 Euros

7. Explore the Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

Another one of the best free things to do in Porto is visit the beautiful Palacio de Cristal. Built in the 19th century, this enchanting glass palace, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace, combines cool architecture with natural beauty.

The intricate ironwork and glass domes of the palace are surrounded by lush botanical gardens filled with flowers and landscaped lawns. I loved coming here to the Palacio de Cristal just to read and relax surrounded by greenery.

8. Try a work exchange

A work exchange is a super cool way to experience any city! I loved doing a work exchange in Porto because I was able to afford staying in the heart of the city for a whole month .

With free accommodation, breakfast, and tours in exchange for around 20 hours per week of easy hospitality work, I had the perfect setup for exploring northern Portugal.

Another huge perk of a work exchange is the social experience. I made friends with the full-time Portuguese staff who helped introduce me to their city and culture, and I met other travellers too.

I can’t recommend work exchanges enough!

• Cost : My work exchange cost me 200 Euros for a whole month of living in Porto, plus the $49 USD per year Worldpackers fee (Code GABBY gets your a discount!)

Read about my Portugal work exchange experience here , or sign up for your own work exchange using Worldpackers .

9. Run or walk along the river

The Douro River flows through Porto and separates the city from Vila Nova De Gaia. Majestic bridges like Ponte Luís I and Ponte Infante Dom Henrique stretch across the river and a paved pathway runs along the river’s edges.

Walking around the Old Town or city center of Porto is cool because there is always architecture, tilework, art, and culture to see. But I also loved walking or jogging along the river pathway because it’s just miles of uninterrupted sidewalk with views of the Douro River.

This is a great way to get some exercise and venture outside the main tourist area of Porto! Plus you won’t get lost because it’s just one straight pathway.

Read next: Travel Hacks For Europe: Packing And Planning Tips

10. Find the coolest azulejo tiles

The famous blue and while tiles in Portugal are known as azulejos . These glazed, colored, and intricate tiles can be found all over Portugal, especially in the big cities like Porto. While exploring Porto, you can find azulejos plastered to grand churches, humble restaurants, train stations, fountains, museums, and local homes.

Whether you’re a photographer, an artist, or just a traveler who likes looking at cool things, definitely try to admire some of the azulejos in Porto!

São Bento Railway Station, Igreja do Carmo, Igreja Santo Ildefonso, Capela das Almas, Banco de Materiais, and Casa da Música are some of the best places to find azulejos in Porto.

11. Eat roasted chestnuts in the street

I had no idea that roasted chestnuts were a popular street food in Portugal until I visited Porto. While exploring the streets of the Old Town, I always found sweet local ladies selling bags of roasted chestnuts from their carts.

After passing the chestnut sellers daily for weeks, I finally decided to try some.

A huge bag of roasted chestnuts was only 1 Euro and they were honestly delicious. If you’re a foodie hoping to taste some interesting local treats in Porto, try the roasted chestnuts!

• Cost: Around 1 Euro

12. Marvel at Livraria Lello

Known as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello is one of the top tourist attractions in Porto. It’s also one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal, and supposedly inspired JK Rowling while she was writing about Hogwarts for the Harry Potter books.

Livraria Lello is as gorgeous as they say! With its neo-Gothic façade, intricate woodwork, and stained glass windows, this enchanting bookstore makes you feel like you’re in a fairy tale.

• Cost : 8 Euros which you should book online . Entrances are timed so the bookstore doesn’t get too crowded. On the website you can book your entry slot ahead of time and the 8 Euros is discounted from any books you buy.

13. Visit the gardens

A fun part of exploring any city is finding the green spaces. Aside from Palacio de Cristal, Jardim da Cordoaria is one of my favorite gardens near the city center of Porto. There are sculptures, streams, and lots of shady trees.

Parque de las Virtudes is another lovely garden in Porto that offers amazing sunset views as it’s up on a hill!

14. Stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset

The Dom Luís I Bridge (Also called Luís I Bridge or Ponte Luís I) is a standout landmark in Porto.

Completed in 1886, this double-deck metal bridge seamlessly connects the bustling Ribeira district with the vibrant Vila Nova de Gaia.

The lower level of Ponte Luís I has a footpath for pedestrians and a road for cars. The upper level has a metro line and a footpath for pedestrians as well. Though it is just a bridge, this massive streel structure offers some of the best city views, especially at sunset!

15. Admire the Porto Cathedral

The Porto Cathedral, or the Sé do Porto in Portuguese, is a stunning hilltop cathedral. The cathedral itself is lovely and the surrounding views are equally impressive.

Dating back to the 12th century, this Romanesque gem is an important historical and religious monument in Porto.

• Cost: Free (3 Euros to access the chapter room and treasure room)

16. Try bacalhau, Portugal’s national dish

Portugal’s national dish is bacalhau, salted, dried codfish. This may not sound super appetizing but it is absolutely delicious.

Bacalhau is served in many ways, all of which you can find at local restaurants in Porto.

Bacalhau a Bras is a popular dish where the codfish is mixed with potatoes, eggs, onions, olives, and fresh herbs. Bolinhos de Bacalhau are codfish cakes, and Pastel de Bacalhau are fried balls of bacalhau. I often found the codfish just fried and served plain like that.

Whichever way you eat it, seafood lovers will really enjoy bacalhau!

• Cost: A cod dish is normally around 10-15 Euros. A smaller serving of bacalhau, such as a cake or a fried piece may be around 3-5 Euros.

17. Admire the churches

In addition to the Clérigos Church and Tower and the Cathedral of Porto which I’ve already mentioned, Porto has many more stunning churches.

Even if you’re not religious at all, the churches showcase some of the most impressive architecture, design, landscaping, and azulejo tilework.

Igreja de São Francisco, Igreja dos Carmelitas, and Igreja do Carmo are some of the most beautiful churches in the city and they are all free to enter!

Read next: Budget Traveler’s Guide To Travel Insurance

18. Visit the beach

The west coast of Portugal is situated just west of Porto. You can walk, drive, cycle, or catch public transport to the beach and spend a day by the ocean. Walking takes just over an hour, driving takes about 15 minutes.

Praia do Carneiro is one of the closest beaches to Porto. The beautiful seaside has a palm-tree-lined esplanade, a 16th Century fort, and a lighthouse. Further up the coast from there you can find Praia dos Ingleses, Praia de Gondarém, and Praia do Molhe, all of which are great for swimming and sunbathing.

Praia de Matosinhos is just 15 minutes northwest of Porto and is a popular spot for surfing .

• Cost: Free if you walk, less than 10 Euros by public transport or taxi

Book a surf lesson at Matosinhos Beach with a local instructor!

19. Watch a Fado performance

Fado is an enchanting type of music, performance, and cultural tradition in Portugal. The unique and emotional folk music captures the essence of those who struggled in the past.

Fado is soulful and heartwrenching, and it’s absolutely captivating to watch a live Fado performance.

In Porto, intimate Fado houses such as Casa da Mariquinhas, Taberna Real do Fado, and Adega São Nicolau offer live performances. You can also have drinks and food while watching the performers, which is easily one of the best things to do in Porto.

• Cost: Around 15-20 Euros, worth booking ahead of time because the venues are small and fill up quickly!

20. Shop at the markets

The markets in Porto are vibrant hubs of activity, showcasing the city’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. While living in Porto for a month, I bought almost all of my groceries at the local markets. The food is super fresh and cheap!

Mercado Bolhão is one of the main food markets near the Old Town of Porto. It’s a historic, 2-level market hall with produce and street food.

Mercado Porto Belo happens every Saturday in the Carlos Alberto Square and is another cool place to shop for food and souvenirs. Mercado Bom Sucesso is another indoor market hall that sells food, clothes, trinkets, and often hosts performances.

• Cost: Free to browse, a bag of groceries or a street food meal might cost around 10 Euros

21. Indulge in plenty of pastel de nata

Pastel de nata is a famous Portuguese pastry made with egg and cinnamon. It’s like a custard tart but thick, creamy, and not overly sweet. They are seriously delicious!

Though you can find pastel de nata anywhere in Portugal, make sure you indulge in a few while you’re visiting Porto. Or book a cooking class and learn how to make these delicious treats yourself!

22. Get lost!

Getting lost while walking around Porto is half the fun of exploring this incredible city. Particularly in the Old Town, you can find so many cool buildings, gardens, and murals in the streets of Porto.

It can be hard to actually get lost in today’s world of smartphones. But take risk and turn off your phone for a bit to see where it takes you!

• Cost: Priceless

Thanks for reading my list of the 22 best things to do in Porto, Portugal

As you can see, there is so much beauty, culture, history, nature, and cuisine to enjoy in this amazing city.

You’ll want to spend at least 3 days in Porto to really make the most of the sights, activities, tours, and attractions. However, some people just visit the city as a day trip from Lisbon, which is also fine.

But if you can, I would recommend trying a work exchange here and staying for even longer! One month in Porto was so much fun. I had plenty of time to explore the city and take some day trips.

Plus, I got to work, save money, meet locals and other backpackers, and have a super cool experience!

Check out my complete Guide To Work Exchange: The Cheapest Way To Travel for more info!

Is Porto, Portugal Worth Visiting?

Porto, Portugal is absolutely worth visiting thanks to its dazzling architecture, unique landmarks, and heartwarming culture.

From the Fado music, to the Portuguese food and wine, to the colourful Old Town, anyone would be captivated on a visit to Porto!

Read about more of my absolute favorite European cities:

London Budget Travel Guide: How To Enjoy London On A Budget

Non Touristy Things To Do In Rome, Italy

15 Best Things To Do In Sofia, Bulgaria

Why Warsaw Changed My Life

10 Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia

10 Incredible Things To Do In Interlaken, Switzerland

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

Share this:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from budget travel with gabby.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

2024 Best Hotels in Porto

Hotels ranked on industry awards, guest reviews and hotel class ratings

Unbiased content created by U.S. News editors

Photo tours of select hotels by local experts

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Discover the best hotel for you:

PortoBay Flores

Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace

The Yeatman

Torel Palace Porto

Vincci Ponte de Ferro

Casa da Companhia

Icon duplo ribeira.

InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas

Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments

M.Ou.Co. Hotel

The Lodge Hotel

Pestana Palácio do Freixo - Pousada & National Monument

Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa

Crowne Plaza Porto, an IHG Hotel

Torel Avantgarde

Travel Guide

• # 1 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

Porto has long been a hot destination for wine lovers – it's the go-to place to find the best of that sweet, tasty port wine. But this city by the sea has more to offer than vinho . Porto (or Oporto, as it's sometimes called) is an attractive European minimetropolis on Portugal's northwestern coast where visitors can get their fill of culture and the outdoors. Travelers can visit the city's wealth of museums, admire its varied architecture, relax in its verdant parks and, of course, hit the beach .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Must-see hotels in Porto

Vila Nova de Gaia

Named after one of port producer Taylor’s original founders, the Yeatman is Porto's only true five-star resort, terraced and tucked into the Gaia hillside…

Guest House Douro

In a restored relic overlooking the Rio Douro, these eight rooms have been blessed with gorgeous wooden floors, plush queen beds and marble baths; the…

ROSA ET AL Townhouse

This gorgeously done-up town house in the thick of Porto's art district has suites with hardwood floors and freestanding claw-foot bathtubs, a lovely…

Torel Avantgarde

High on a hill in Miragaia, this decadent five-star boutique hotel is a winner. Named after prominent avant-garde artists, designers and musicians – from…

Canto de Luz

Aliados & Bolhão

Ah oui, this French-run guesthouse, just a five-minute walk from Trindade metro, is a delight. Rooms are light, spacious and make the leap between classic…

Gallery Hostel

A true travellers' hub, this hostel-gallery has clean and cosy dorms and doubles, a sunny, glass-enclosed back patio, a grassy terrace, a cinema room, a…

Porto River

Down by the Rio Douro and right in the thick of the action, Porto River is a class act. The owners have waved a magic wand over this old stone warehouse…

Bluesock Hostel

It's a winner: bang in the heart of the Ribeira and occupying a beautifully tiled historic townhouse, this hostel fuses plenty of original character with…

The Passenger

A night spent at the station is no longer a miserable prospect since the opening of this cool hostel in São Bento train station. Decorated with vintage…

Casa Carolina

Occupying a prettily tiled 19th-century building on Porto’s shop-lined Rua do Cedofeita, this charming little B&B is surprisingly peaceful and furnished…

Armazém Luxury Housing

Designers have waved a magic wand on this born-again 19th-century iron warehouse in central Ribeira. Rooms are slick and contemporary, with exposed stone,…

Pestana Porto - A Brasileira

The reopening of A Brasileira, the grand turn-of-the-century cafe that first fuelled Porto’s love affair with coffee in the early 1900s, has caused quite…

Flattered to be in Porto

Foz do Douro

Right in the heart of Foz these gorgeous apartments bear the hallmark of architect José Carlos Cruz. Modern Portuguese art brings a splash of colour to…

Maison Nos B&B

Stéphane and Baris go the extra mile to make you feel at home at their sweet, understated, stylish B&B, nuzzled within 14th-century walls in the Vitória…

Casa do Conto

Porto architects, artists and storytellers have pooled their creativity to totally make over a 19th-century town house in an up-and-coming corner of town…

Belos Aires Apartments

The combined vision of passionate Argentinian-Portuguese husband-wife team, each of these five stylishly designed, stone-walled apartments has a theme –…

B The Guest

Opposite Mercado do Bolhão, this boutique-chic guesthouse subtly fuses 19th-century architecture and 21st-century design. Splashes of colour and eye…

Oporto Loft

Housed in a lovingly converted 19th-century townhouse, this chic little B&B has a boutique feel and is conveniently placed for exploring the Jardins do…

Casa dos Caldeireiros

Wow, what a view! Snuggled down a backstreet and occupying a 17th-century town house, Casa dos Caldeireiros affords lofty vistas over Porto’s historic…

Porto Music Guest House

Some of the most enticing new digs in Boavista following a makeover in 2017, this guesthouse is but a stone's throw from the Casa da Música. It's all…

Vintage Guest House

Bemvindo (welcome) to one of Porto’s most adorable digs – a town house lovingly restored to seamlessly unite the vintage (antique furnishings, stucco,…

Flores Village Hotel & Spa

Right in the historic thick of things is this stunning spa hotel, occupying a late 18th-century townhouse. The pick of its plushly understated rooms and…

Porto A.S. 1829

This handsome blue townhouse sits on one of Porto’s liveliest squares, bang in the heart of Ribeira. Dating to 1829 – and in previous lives a stationer's…

This laid-back B&B has a central but tucked-away location. Decorated by local artists, each of the doubles has a theme and some have fine city views. Most…

Hotel Teatro

This design hotel stands in the spot of the 1859 Teatro Baquet, a swanky hideaway done up by interior designer Nini Andrade Silva. The theatre theme…

Rivoli Cinema Hostel

Easygoing staff, spotless dorms and rooms jazzed up with cool movie-themed decor, a chilled lounge with DVDs, a roof terrace and an inflatable pool in…

Castelo Santa Catarina

A whimsical, late 19th-century, pseudo-Gothic castle, this fabulously over-the-top hideaway has palm-shaded, azulejo-smothered gardens complete with its…

InterContinental Porto

In a painstakingly restored former palace on the central Praça da Liberdade, this is a top choice for business and leisure visitors, with classic decor…

Pedro and Marta make you feel instantly at home at their neatly tended guesthouse, located in a 19th-century town house opposite the Jardins do Palácio…

Descobertas

Right in the thick of things in Ribeira, this new design-minded boutique hotel is inspired by Portugal's Age of Discoveries. The look combines pared-back…

Cats Hostel

Cats knows precisely what makes backpackers purr – the facilities are superb and the attractive rooms have thoughtful touches, including big lockers, good…

In Porto Gallery

Architects and artists have pitched in to create this guesthouse, dotted with original works. Muted colours, luxuriant fabrics and one-of-a-kind wall…

Pestana Vintage Porto

Right on the Douro and spread across a cluster of historic townhouses, this is one of Porto’s most sophisticated sleeps. Rooms maintain a fine balance…

Yours Guesthouse

Squirrelled away in one of the loveliest streets of old Porto, this guesthouse has bags of originality, with antiques speckling cheerfully decorated rooms…

Pensão Favorita

Pensão Favorita has inviting rooms of ample size with big windows, mid-century furnishings and wide plank floors. The rooms in the red-brick addition out…

Gaia Porto Hostel

Down by the river and just a cork-pop away from the port-wine lodges, this hostel has fabulous views of the Rio Douro and Ribeira, and a secluded garden…

By the River

As the name suggests, this incredibly friendly guesthouse is down by the river. The simple but understated and stylish conversion of a historic townhouse…

Vincci Porto

This upscale design hotel down by the river has a clean, modern aesthetic. The skylit lobby with high ceilings segues into spacious, streamlined rooms…

Tiles Apartments

Cátia and David are your affable, clued-up hosts at this super-central apartment duo, glammed up with the namesake blue-and-white azulejos. The apartments…

Pousada da Juventude

In a bright, modern building above the Rio Douro, this hostel offers handsome doubles with balconies and sweeping river views, well-maintained four-person…

More destinations you need to see

13 Things To Do In Porto: Complete Guide To This Magical City In Portugal

N estled on the banks of the Douro River in northwest Portugal, Porto is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new. The ancient Ribeira district, with its narrow cobbled streets and the stunning interiors of the Porto Cathedral, are just a few of the historical and cultural highlights that visitors can enjoy. The Palácio de Bolsa, a 19th-century building that was once a stock market, is an impressive sight to behold, and the city's stately bridges are a marvel of engineering. There are endless things to see throughout one of the best cities in Portugal .

Those looking to relax can head to one of the many beaches in the area, while those seeking a taste of Portugal's famous port wine can visit one of the many cellars scattered throughout the city. With its rich history, delicious food, and stunning scenery, Porto is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. Harry Potter was even inspired by this magical city , so there's certainly a charm to it.

UPDATE: 2023/09/13 07:15 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Top Things To Do In Porto

Porto might be better known for its iconic port wine and historic Ribeira District, but there are more beautiful gems worth discovering. This refreshed article highlights extra Porto things to do for a gratifying Portuguese vacation.

Things To Do in Porto, Portugal

Whether travelers want a laid-back trip to Porto or prefer a full day of stops and attractions, there will be something for everyone. The beautiful coastal city of Porto has many things to do: start here.

Related: Why Portugal Is Considered The Friendliest Country In The World

Porto Cathedral Is Worth A Visit

Visitors to Porto may want to experience the city's cathedral. They can explore the Roman Catholic Church in the city's historical center. The Porto Cathedral was also built at one of the highest points in the area, giving people a stunning view.

It's also worth noting that this church is the oldest monument in Porto and is considered an incredibly sacred spot for residents. Therefore, being as quiet and respectful as possible while visiting is a good idea.

• Admission : Free
• Hours : Open daily from 9 AM to 6:30 PM (except on Wednesdays, from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Guests wishing to enter the cathedral's inner section and floor above will have to pay a $3.22 fee.

Walk Along The Luís I Bridge

Another place to visit while in Porto is the Luís I Bridge. This is a focal point of the city, offering tourists a double-deck metal arch bridge that spans the River Douro between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Walking the Luís I Bridge is one of the many free things travelers can do while visiting Porto, Portugal .

• Can tourists walk across the Luis 1 bridge in Porto? Absolutely, pedestrians can walk on the lower and upper levels in a path separate from cars.

The best way to experience the Dom Luis Bridge is to stroll along the upper platform, 40m above the Duoro River, which spoils guests with sweeping water views.

Explore The Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

The next stop while in Porto is Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. This stunning garden features one of Porto's best-loved escapes: a botanical garden above the Douro River.

Here, visitors can walk the 8-hectare landscaped gardens.

• Hours : 8 am - 9 pm

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal has free WiFi for visitors.

Casa da Música

For those who love music, exploring Casa da Música may be worth the adventure. In this famed concert hall, guests can tour the property and see a show if one is in town. This music/concert hall was designed by architect Rem Koolhaas and opened in 2005, and has since become a staple of the city.

It's stunning; modern architecture vastly differs from the nearby historic buildings, which is perfect for photographing.

• Casa da Música location : Av. da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071 Porto, Portugal

Go to the Casa da Musica website to check the schedule, times, and ticket prices.

Tour Parque de Serralves (Including A Museum)

Another great spot to check out while in Porto is Parque de Serralves . Here, tourists to the city can experience a unique urban space and a cultural institution. This park has a modern vibe, water features, art, and many beautiful local plants.

A contemporary art museum on-site allows travelers to escape the heat and head indoors to witness beautiful art from around the city and country. Álvaro Siza Vieira designed the museum, which has since become one of the most popular in Portugal.

• Admission : $21.50
• Hours : 10 am - 7 pm

The $21.50 is a general ticket fee granting access to the park and museum. But for partial tickets, either for the park or museum, the fee is $13.98

Shop At Mercado do Bolhão

For people wanting to shop while in Porto, heading to Mercado do Bolhão could be a fun day trip. Here, people can shop at various stores, much like a market in the US. Travelers can find fresh produce, meat, fish, flowers, and seasonal treats from local vendors.

Porto is known for its fresh food and wine, and Mercado do Bolhão is among the best markets in Portugal for this. A one-stop-shop for many people, it is also centrally located, near the city's downtown area.

Mercado do Bolhão is open daily from 8 AM to 12 AM, excluding Sundays. The market is closed one day per week, so consider that before planning a trip.

Take A Tour Of Palácio de Bolsa

Another indoor attraction in Porto to visit is the Palácio de Bolsa. Here, guests can step back in time and see what used to be the city's stock exchange building. This structure was built in the 19th century by the city's Commercial Association in Neoclassical style and is located in the Infante D. Henrique Square .

The Palácio de Bolsa is also a designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

• Admission : Adults $10.70, Students and Seniors $7, Children under 12 free
• Hours : 9 am - 6:30 pm

Bolsa Palace is one of the most visited sites in Porto and can only be accessed through guided tours. So book in advance before heading to the venue.

A Must Visit: The Romantic Museum Of Quinta da Macieirinha

Checking out the Romantic Museum might be worth it for couples traveling to Porto, Portugal. Here, people can experience a house museum displaying period art & furnishings and gardens offering scenic river views.

This is often considered one of the more romantic attractions in the city, as it looks over the river and is centered around romance in the area.

• Admission : $2.40
• Hours : Open daily (except Monday),10 AM to 5:30 PM.

This museum may be a nice choice for those looking for romance in Porto. The Romantic Museum has stunning views of the city and nearby Douro River, adding to its charm.

Take In Clerigos Church And Tower

Another thing to see and do while in Porto is checking out the Clerigos Church and Tower. This monument features a 75-meter bell tower and is one of the most famous spots in the city.

Notably, The Clérigos Church is a Baroque church and is one of Porto's many holy sites.

• Admission : Free to enter the church, but $6.70 to climb the tower
• Hours : 9 am - 7 pm

Visitors and locals alike can also attend mass on Sundays at this church.

Stroll Through The Picturesque Avenue Of The Allies (Avenida dos Aliados)

Situated in the heart of the city and just south of the popular Bolhao Market, Avenida dos Aliados is Porto's main corridor, lined with a string of businesses, including hotels, restaurants, banks, and boutique stores. These are all housed in gorgeous buildings with impressive architecture.

The area was named "Avenue of the Allies" to honor the 14th-century alliance between Portugal and England and hosts numerous exciting sights, including the city's imposing granite and marble town hall and Liberdade Square.

At the center of the square, tourists can enjoy free shows by street performers and freelance artists or even attend a festival.

Bring a camera to capture the spectacular scenes in the area, from the unique architecture to the vibrant street with performers entertaining people.

Experience Porto's Wine Culture With Port Wine Tastings & Tours

While there is more to Porto beyond its famous Port wine , visiting the city wouldn't be complete without stopping by the iconic export port. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of Porto's wine trade and the production of the sweet drink.

Guests can tour the Port Wine Museum for interesting facts about the industry and pop into one of the many top wineries in the area to sample their creations.

Additionally, they can explore multiple winemakers within walking distance of one another, including Offley Cellars, Ferreria, and Sandeman, each with a unique history and great-tasting wine. Some of these display photographs, paintings, antique bottles, and other memorabilia, offering a look into the history of the establishments.

Wine tours at Port Wine cost about $17, including tastings, and can be conducted in English upon request. But tourists must liaise with the wineries to confirm the time.

Explore The Vast Porto City Park (Parque da Cidade do Porto)

Spanning over 200 acres, Porto City Park is one of northern Portugal's biggest parks, providing adventures and explorers with a fantastic playground. It hosts numerous fun attractions, including six miles of walking and biking paths and lush scenic spots perfect for family day outs.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful flora within the park as animal lovers gravitate towards Sea Life Porto, a privately operated aquarium housing thousands of cute sea creatures. The sprawling park stretches to the Atlantic, allowing parkgoers access to scenic beaches and a dip in the warm sea waters.

• Hours : 10 am - 10 pm

Although the Porto City Park is free to enter, visitors will pay $18.20 to access the Sea Life Porto.

Get Cultured At National Museum Soares dos Reis (Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis)

Art connoisseurs will have a wonderful time combing through the National Museum Soares dos Reis exhibits. Established in 1833, it is the country's oldest public art museum and houses a vast collection of art pieces, mostly by artist Antonio Soares dos Reis.

His iconic marble creation, "The Exile" ("O Desterrado"), is just one of the venue's highlights, but guests will appreciate other 16th and 20th-century sculptures and paintings by various Portuguese artists. The museum is also home to intricate jewelry, glassware, and furniture that will leave visitors in awe.

• Admission : Adults $5.50, Children & Seniors $2.75
• Hours : Tue to Sun, 10 am - 6 pm

Take advantage of free admissions on Sundays until 2 p.m.

Best Time To Visit Porto, Portugal

One of the best times to visit Porto (and other places in Portugal) is in late spring (May/June) or early fall (August). During these times, the city will be at its prime: featuring fewer tourists and perfect weather conditions. Porto is a busy vacation spot in Europe, as many out-of-towners head here for vacation.

This Portuguese city's beach and water quality are some of the best around, hence why crowds flock here during national holidays and long weekends. Therefore, if someone wants to experience Porto in a slower, calmer time: they should head to Portugal in the early fall or the later spring.

Regardless, the unique city of Porto will be stunning throughout the year.

Related: More Than Lisbon: 10 Small Towns To Visit In Portugal

Best Ways To Get Around Porto

• The best way to get around Porto is via metro, bus, or walking.
• It might be better to stay in the city center or historic district for people wanting to walk.
• Porto, Portugal, is a walkable city overall.

For those traveling to Porto, Portugal, some of the best ways to get around include taking the metro, hopping on a bus, or walking. Depending on where someone stays, the city can be walkable. For instance, many of the sites mentioned in this post are in the city center or historic district, meaning people could walk between them without an issue.

However, if one place is much further than another, hopping on a bus or riding the metro won't hurt. Especially for those only in Porto for a few days, they will need to prioritize what they see and how they can get there quickly.

Where To Eat In Porto, Portugal

There will be something for any palette when eating in Porto. One thing to note is that the menu throughout the city will feature seafood, as this is a coastal destination.

Portuguese food is delicious; whether it's pasta, meat, fish, or a mix: so regardless, everyone will be in for a treat. Although known for wine, Porto offers so much more for guests: so don't be afraid to try something new.

Here are some restaurants to consider while in Porto:

Breakfast Places in Porto

• Do Norte Café by Hungry Biker : $$ great brunch and good music
• Zenith : $$ brunch & cocktails

Lunch Around Porto

• Chama : $$ local eats near the Clérigos Church
• Taberna Dos Mercadores : $$ authentic Portuguese food

Dinner in Porto

• O Buraco : $ local seafood, casual dining
• Muu Steakhouse : $$$ upscale steakhouse

Of course, any food in Porto will be delicious but expect to see mainly fish and meat on most restaurant menus. Wine is also amazing here, so don't be afraid to do a pairing with a meal!

Related: Pastries To Grilled Sardines: Discover 10 Must-Try Street Foods In Portugal

Because Porto is known for its wine, it may be nice to tour a winery here. Many local restaurants also offer wine pairings alongside dinner, another way to enjoy the festivities.

Where To Stay In Porto, Portugal

Regarding hotels in Porto, Portugal, there are endless choices. Whether someone prefers a small, locally-run hotel or something larger than life: Porto is the place to be.

Here are a few top-rated hotels in the area worth considering:

Budget Picks in Porto

• NH Porto Jardim - Close to markets and the historic Ribeira area, in-room Nespresso machines, breakfast buffet, on-site restaurant & bar. Starts at $126/night.
• Se Catedral Hotel Porto, Tapestry Collection by Hilton - Centrally located hotel featuring a restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee, and river views. Starts at $170/night.

Mid-Range Hotels in Porto

• Torel Palace Porto - Upscale hotel featuring an outdoor pool, bar/lounge, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi, and in-room coffee and tea. Starts at $288/night.
• PortoBay Flores - Swanky hotel featuring an indoor pool, fitness center, spa & wellness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, and room service. Starts at $247/night.

Upscale Hotels in Porto

• Palacio Das Cardosas, an IHG Hotel - Luxury hotel featuring a spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, coffee shop, free Wi-Fi, and valet parking. Starts at $320/night.
• Torel Avantgarde - Central location, roundtrip airport shuttle, dry cleaning/laundry services. Starts at $330/night.

Related: 10 Things To Know About A Digital Nomad Visa In Portugal

Tips For Staying In Porto, Portugal

For people headed to Porto, Portugal, there are some things to remember. First, this city is a tourist hot spot, meaning restaurants, hotels, and attractions get booked far in advance. It is recommended to have everything lined up before coming to Porto, to avoid long waits or lack of space/room.

It's also worth mentioning that public transport is the best way to get around the city, so buying an Andante Card will be worthwhile. The summers in Porto can be hot, often uncomfortable for town guests. It is better to come here during spring or fall when the climate is more tolerable.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Porto

Spending the perfect day in Porto, Portugal, won't take much planning given that there are so many fun things to do. The best way to start a day here is by walking along the Douro River, followed by breakfast or lunch at one of the city's various restaurants or cafés.

From there, visiting a cultural site, museum, or church in the city may be worth visiting. There are gardens to explore in the various districts, all featuring stunning plants and views of the nearby area. Dinner in Porto will be a wine lover's dream, featuring pairings of local wine and delicious Portuguese food.

Sunset at the beach is another idea to keep the party going, so don't feel inclined to stop enjoying the vacation once the sun sets!

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

How to Spend 72 Hours in... Porto

Portugal's second biggest city is one of Europe's best

If your idea of a holiday is non-stop sightseeing and a Fitbit that clocks 30,000 steps in a sprawling metropolis, then Porto is not for you. It is small, close-knit and steady. Those are perhaps its biggest draws. Because this northern coastal city (the second largest in Portugal after the capital Lisbon) is one long, gloriously languid vibe; a relaxing city break that genuinely feels nourishing.

Rushing around just isn't the Porto way. Instead, wander aimlessly down the narrow streets of crumbling yet colourful Pombaline architecture. Visit the port (yes, Porto has ports!) and drink vinho verde in the shadow of the hulking Dom Luís I Bridge. Sunbathe. Eat. Drink more vinho verde. And port (yes, Porto birthed port!). Pop into cathedrals, the railway station, that shop with the weird magnets, and do it all at your own leisure.

The timing couldn't be better. Climatically, yes, for September is on the cooler end of Porto's blazing summer, but still warm enough for shorts and T-shirts. But also because the city is on the cusp of a new culinary and creative movement that's given rise to genuinely impressive restaurants, galleries and concept stores. Given the Portuguese government's attractive perks for international start-ups, that'll only get bigger.

So get there before it does – and keep our 72 hour guide bookmarked.

Where to Stay

Given Porto's tiny city centre, space is at a premium. So if you are to elect for one of the many hotels in the Baixa area, know that you'll get a comfortable, if not slightly small, room. But Porto's size also makes it absurdly traversable. Just a ten minute Metro ride west lies Bonfim, a neighbourhood that feels like the real Porto, and one where Mouco has opened shop.

Mouco, R. de Frei Heitor Pinto 65, double rooms with breakfast starting at around £80 per night

Where to Eat

Gluttons, rejoice: Porto has a wealth of cafes and restaurants that cover all manner of food. For traditional local pastries, Padaria Ribeiro by the Aliados Metro station is a good balance between old and new, whereas good pastel de nata (those banging little Portuguese custard tarts everyone loves) can be found in almost every bakery in almost every neighbourhood. For a more modern breakfast though, try Garden just south of the Trindade Metro station, and ask for the brunch burrito (and get there early).

Dinnertime is where Porto really show offs, though. Tia Tia (again, by Aliados station) has been headed up by wife-husband team Tiago Feio and Cátia Roldão since November 2021, and they offer a tightly-curated, daily menu that plays to the bountiful seasons of Porto's harvest – with a slightly modern twist. Think pak choi in cashew cream, carrot, tangerine and Swiss chard salad and Shoyuzuke egg yolk on a bed of turnip and asparagus. All the wines are natural, too, which is quite trendy, really.

For more traditional upmarket dining, head to Mistu . Using the Atlantic on the doorstep to springboard to other parts of the world, an impressive menu under chef Rui Mingatos serves fresh seafood, steak and oysters alongside a comprehensive wine list. The restaurant itself is also steeped in olde Europe charm with tiled floors, spinning overhead fans and jazz lounge chairs.

What To See

Porto isn't quite Lisbon in terms of landmarks, but some of the most enjoyable afternoons to be had in the city are the unplanned ones. Walking from neighbourhood to neighbourhood gives the clearest vision of Porto (and the most tiring one – lots and lots of steps) with attractions seemingly peppered in-between the winding streets and arcades.

Chief among these is the São Bento train station. A far cry from Doncaster interchange, this impressive 20th century building is emblematic of Neo-Manueline architecture, and houses some of the best mosaic work in Portugal using over 20,000 azulejo tiles.

Just a stone's throw away is Porto Cathedral, a towering church and a lynchpin of Romanesque architecture, the gilded halls are a shining example of Portugal's rich history of European and Moorish influence.

But no trip would be complete without a glass of port. Head to the Gaia neighbourhood, the cradle of the national fortified wine, and grab a glass at Kopke. It's the oldest port house in the city, and the queues can attest to its expertise.

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} Culture

Is Netflix's ‘Hit Man’ a True Story? Yes and No

‘House of the Dragon’ Season 2: A Thrill Ride

Hari Kunzru: Around Paris With Love

‘Hit Man’ Review: Glen Powell’s Triple Act

Not Over The Moon: Why We Can't Stop Looking Up

What I've Learned: Liam Gallagher

What to Do in London This Weekend

How to Watch Jake Gyllenhaal's ‘Presumed Innocent’

There's More Good News for ‘3 Body Problem’ Fans

Everything We Know About ‘Knives Out 3’

Your Complete Guide to the Future of 'Star Wars'

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Why Porto Is the Ideal Getaway for Any Wine Lover

Visit the city and surrounding valley famous for fortified wine, where the Douro River meets the sea.

I arrived in porto via the sea, though unlike generations of visitors, I didn't come by ship. Instead, I was transported here by a morsel of tuna tartare, served with an oyster on a mottled stone that echoed the oyster's stippling, and a juicy scallop returned to its shell and painted tableside with a lemon sauce.

The dish is the work of chef Rui Paula at two-Michelin-starred Casa de Chá da Boa Nova , a ridiculously glamorous former teahouse on the seafront designed by Porto's great architect, Álvaro Siza Vieira. The turquoise vista beyond the terrace offers a picturesque reminder that the city owes its beauty and fame (not to mention its legendary fortified wine) to its strategic position on the Atlantic coast.

By the time my husband and I made our way back into town, we had eaten 12 perfect courses and, via an exceptional wine list, drunk our way from Monção, on the norther border with Spain, to Ribatejo, just above Lisbon. With over 250 indigenous grape varieties, Portugal is one of the world's most underrated wine-producing nations.

In Porto proper, the graceful iron arc of the Luís I Bridge spans the Douro River, multicolored buildings rising in tiers on either side. The vast, orange-roofed port cellars face the Bishop's Palace and the Cathedral; the banks' steep symmetry is breathtaking. Beyond are beautiful stone churches and houses clad in the famous azulejo tiles. It turns out that it's as hard to stay blasé about the scenery in Porto as it is to stay hungry.

And that's impossible. "People here snack all the time! They live around food," laughed Carine Castro of Culinary Backstreets tours . Her tour was not for the unfit: nearly six hours of walking around Porto's old town, with frequent pauses for snacks, many practically a meal in themselves. The highlight was cachorrinhos, pork sausage and melted cheese with spicy sauce in crusty bread, from Cervejaria Gazela , a simple hangout with high stools and beer on tap that was featured in Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown .

After saying goodbye to Castro on the quayside, we figured all that walking had earned us an early aperitif. In the Museu do Vinho do Porto's bar , I questioned the barmaid about white port, the red's lighter, less famous sibling, usually served with tonic before dinner. She whipped out a range: Niepoort's 10-year-old, Royal Oporto's Extra Dry, Dow's Fine White, and even a Lagrima, the intensely sweet and viscous version, more dessert wine than aperitif. For the curious, several port houses—Quinta do Noval, Sandeman, Cálem—have tasting rooms, tours, or both, directly opposite the museum.

I met up with Zoe Graham of Churchill's, which was founded by her father, John Graham, after his family sold their generations-old port house. She was delighted to hear I was trying so many local delicacies but insisted I couldn't leave the city without tasting a francesinha, a monster sandwich of ham and sausage slathered in cheese and a beer sauce. It sounded terrifying. ("Great hangover food," she said.) I eventually succumbed to one at T&C, one of the dozen eateries in the new World of Wine museum complex . In this cozy, low-lit enclave of stone and wood, once a port wine cellar, the sauce features port instead of beer, which feels right.

WoW was conceived by Adrian Bridge, CEO of The Fladgate Partnership, which owns multiple port houses. There's plenty to discover in the complex's wine "experience" (Bridge worries the word "museum" is too static), which inventively simplifies the subject without talking down to wine-lovers. The cork experience is also great fun, with information on NASA's use of this versatile bark in space shuttles, and the doubtful pleasure of finding out how many wine corks you weigh (which I wish I'd tried before that francesinha).

Our final meal in the city was as fabulous as our first but radically different. In the sliver of garden behind Almeja , with his dog and tiny son toddling around, young chef João Cura served falafel, cinnamon-sprinkled vegetable samosas on a yellow azulejo tile, and amberjack, a tender fish from the Azores islands. These far-flung influences were a parting reminder that no port lives by local goods alone and that in Porto, ideas and ingredients flow in and out as easily as water, or wine, or people.

Getting There

TAP Air Portugal flies nonstop from Newark, New Jersey, to Porto. Take a private tour with 2021 Food & Wine Game Changer Modern Adventure on a seven-night trip through Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley from July 24–30 hosted by chef and cookbook author Chris McDade and his sommelier wife, Natalie Grindstaff (from $6,900, modernadventure.com ) . You could also arrive by boat: Scenic River hosts a regular 11-day cruise from Porto along the Douro River that includes visits to vineyards and estate tastings (from $5,095, scenicusa.com ) . Portocvb.com and visitporto.travel are great resources for those planning a trip to the city and surrounding region.

Where to Stay

Torel palace porto.

As well as marvelous carved ceilings (one whimsically hung with suspended books), this 19th-century former school is a hotel and home to Blind, a monochrome bar and poolside restaurant where we ate plenty of fish and drank wines from the nearby Douro Valley. (Rooms from $262, torelpalaceporto.com )

The Yeatman Hotel

The Fladgate Partnership responsible for the WoW also owns this vast, white luxury hotel with a decanter-shaped pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and stunning views. (Rooms from $389, the-yeatman-hotel.com )

A River of Wine

Until it was dammed in the 1960s, the journey up the Douro from Porto was hellish, and the winding roads were worse. At Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo , a Douro Valley winery and boutique Relais & Châteaux hotel, there is old footage of bargemen frantically negotiating the wild river, their shallow boat piled precariously with barrels. These days, the trip is easy and breathtakingly beautiful. (There's even a train from Porto to Pinhão.) Most estates on the river's steep, vine-coveredslopes offer tastings, tours, and food. Quinta do Bomfim even has a fascinating mini museum. I took a peaceful river cruise past vines, famous estate names, and the odd dramatic granite outcrop. Mostly, though, I ate, drank, and gawped, usually at the same time: in the cool green dining room at Quinta da Pacheca, a winery hotel with 10 standalone barrel bedrooms among the vines (rooms from $282, quintadapacheca.com ); above the Bomfim vines at Casa dos Ecos , a laid-back pop-up from Michelin-starred chef Pedro Lemos; on the terrace at Quinta da Roêda , home of Croft's port; or over a superb dinner at Quinta Nova's restaurant, Terraçu's, where the sommelier heated tongs to twist the entire neck off a bottle of 1997 port.

Where to Eat & Drink

Snacks are hard to forgo in Porto. One evening, tantalized by all the tiny, brightly lit eateries, we tried, and failed, to stop for a small plate in every interesting-looking joint we saw, wolfing bifanas—buns filled with tender pulled pork marinated in garlic and spice—in Conga and hitching ourselves onto barstools at Pedro dos Frangos for piles of cumin-flavored tripe, sausage, ham, and white beans. Porto's inhabitants are known as tripeiros, or tripe-eaters, supposedly because they donated all their meat to the army in the 15th century, leaving nothing but offal. If that's not your bag, stop by for the fresh sardines at Salmão along with a glass of Vinho Verde, the region's crisp white wine, or delicious, market-fresh fish casserole at tiny Taberna dos Mercadores in the riverside Ribeira quarter. Be sure to finish with cake and port at Capela Incomum , a funky little converted chapel.

Related Articles

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Porto, Portugal

• Facebook 27
• Pinterest 655

Perched on the banks of Rio Douro, Porto is a beautiful coastal city in northwest Portugal . Equal parts attitude and opulence, the magnificent medieval city enchants with its historic architecture, flavor-packed food scene, blissful river walkways, and charming boutique hotels. Whether you want to admire the intricate façade of a centuries-old church or go nightclub hopping until the sun comes up, Porto always delivers!

While most of the world calls this city Porto or Oporto, locals affectionately refer to their home as “Invicta.” In Portuguese, this nickname means “invincible,” referring to the fact that Porto was never conquered during the 19 th -century Portuguese civil war. 

For a taste of Porto’s storied history, you’ll definitely want to stroll the cobblestone streets of the medieval Ribeira district, marvel at all of the Baroque 18th-century churches, or see the city’s most important historic sights on a popular tram tour.  Once you’ve had your fill of Porto’s historical wonders, you can take in views of the Rio Duoro from the Dom Luís I Bridge, sip port at one of Porto’s many famed wine cellars, or go shopping at the bustling Mercado de Bolhao.

It’s no surprise that this historic city is home to all sorts of incredible hotels. Porto offers a huge number of historic renovated palaces, state-of-the-art apartment-hotels, and ultra-luxurious boutique hotels perfect for your next getaway. 

There are so many, in fact, that you may have a hard time choosing the perfect place for your trip. To help make your decision easier, we’ve put together the top 12 best places to stay in Porto. 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Porto, Portugal

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Where to Stay in Porto

If you’re new to Porto, we suggest you stay in Centre-Baixa. Much of this area is a protected World Heritage Site, brimming with beautifully renovated historic buildings, trendy cocktail lounges, designer outlets, and some of the coolest hotels in Porto. Pretty much everything is within walking distance, but if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you can take advantage of the city’s superb public transport network.

Ribeira is a fantastic choice if you want to spend your days getting lost in charming backstreets before enjoying your evenings wining and dining in some of the city’s best restaurants. Even though it’s one of the oldest parts of Porto, Ribeira is also home to some of the city’s best nightclubs and cocktail bars.

For a more laid-back vacation, consider Miragaia. Here the streets are lined with fascinating antique shops, captivating art galleries, peaceful cafes, and gorgeous historical buildings that many miss out on by restricting themselves to the tourist zones. You’ll also find some of the best boutique hotels in Porto in this neighborhood. 

1. Zero Box Lodge Porto

One of the most unique hotels in Porto, Zero Box Lodge invites you to try a new type of hotel, one made up of individual wooden box rooms housed in a former bank. Staying in a box doesn’t sound like a lot of fun at first, but the concept and design of the hotel are sure to win you over!

Each room is designed to help you relax and enjoy the simple things in life. There’s no TV, minibar, or tub. Instead, your picture-perfect room comes with a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries, a large bed with comfortable bedding, and air conditioning. 

O Carniceiro is the hotel’s onsite restaurant. In the morning, you’ll find a wonderful selection of sweet, savory, healthy, and indulgent dishes up for grabs. As time goes by, more international dishes are added to the menu, each with a pleasantly unexpected twist. 

In the evening, head to the Big Bad Bank Bar for one of their incredible signature cocktails, or have a quick session in the sauna to relax you before bed.

Check Prices on Booking.com

Check Prices on Hotels.com

2. Infante Sagres

A meeting point for the city’s elite for decades, Infante Sagres is a remarkably opulent hotel, highly revered for its stylish surroundings, superior service, and unique blend of elegant and timeless sophistication. As soon as you step through the grand front doors, you’ll think you’ve walked into a castle, not a hotel!

One of the best things about Infante Sagres is its location. Set in the UNESCO World Heritage city center, all of the most important and iconic landmarks are within walking distance. After a long day exploring, head to the rooftop terrace, where you can relax in the Portuguese sunshine or take a dip in the refreshing plunge pool. 

Magnificently decorated with rich red carpets, fancy ironwork, and glittering chandeliers, Infante Sagres goes all out to impress you. Serving up a stylish and contemporary menu in a room with towering ceilings, Vogue Cafe encourages you to leave the ordinary world behind and embrace everything elegant and indulgent.

At the end of a long day, you’ll love unwinding in your luxury room. You can choose from eight different room types. But if you want to go all out, the Royal Suite is well worth it for its lavish living room, spacious bedroom, and beautiful marble bath.

3. Malmerendas Boutique Lodging

Feel close to nature without leaving the city by staying at Malmerendas Boutique Lodging . Set inside a renovated 19 th -century building, this stunning hotel is just steps away from the Bolhao Market, the emblematic São Bento Railway Station, and the Santa Catarina shopping street.

Here you’ll find four luxurious suites and two beautiful studios, each of which has been constructed and decorated according to the style of the original building. No two accommodation options are alike, and each includes distinct details and features which combine the hotel’s colorful past with its progressive present.

A wonderful place to relax and reflect on your day, Malmerendas Boutique Lodge offers a peaceful private garden where you can enjoy breakfast each morning under the shade of tall, thick trees. Return to the secret garden in the afternoon or evening for the chance to treat yourself to an exclusive tasting made up of locally produced port wines.

4. Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel

A one-of-a-kind hotel in the perfect location, Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel is tucked away in between Avenida dos Aliados and Ribeira in the heart of Old Town Porto. Only a short walk away from must-visit sites – such as the Douro River, Palácio da Bolsa, and Palácio da Bolsa – this hotel is ideally positioned for exploring Porto on foot.

Almost two centuries ago, the hotel was a quaint bookstore, but today the charming 41 guest rooms have breathed new life into the building while still displaying many original items that were once featured in the store. Beautifully decorated in tranquil shades of gray and green, the rooms all have huge windows that allow plenty of light inside. Depending on which room you choose, you’ll love the thoughtful touches, from beautifully-tiled baths with freestanding soaking tubs to beautiful writers’ desks with vintage typewriters.

A former art gallery where local artists showcased their work, the hotel’s Galeria Do Largo restaurant is the perfect place to try seasonal Portuguese cuisine. If you visit on a Friday, you’ll be able to try their tapas menu and savor 10 of the chef’s carefully selected dishes. 

5. Torel 1884

Without a doubt one of the best boutique hotels in Porto, Torel 1884 is set inside a former palace located in the center of the city. Boasting many of its original features, including a winding staircase, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a glamorous crowning skylight, this hotel will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Inspired by the visiting Portuguese travelers who stayed there before venturing to all parts of the world, each room at Torel 1884 is decorated in a different style. Named after the spices, silk, coffee, tea, porcelain, and tapestries that were discovered around the globe, the rooms feature separate living and sleeping spaces, wonderfully tall vaulted ceilings, and soft robes and slippers. If you want some extra space, the hotel also has 11 roomy apartments just 200 meters away along Porto’s trendiest street.

One of the best spaces inside Torel 1884 is Bartolomeu. The 32-seat wine bar and restaurant dishes up tapas-style small plates alongside an excellent wine menu with local and international bottles.

6. The Yeatman

Boasting the finest views of Porto and the Douro River, the Yeatman is something of a landmark attraction itself. A member of the distinguished Relais & Châteaux collection of hotels and renowned for its two-Michelin-star restaurant, the hotel is an excellent choice if you want to feel like a true VIP.

The Yeatman is set within 7 acres of land on the side of a hill, which overlooks Porto. While many parts of the hotel offer incredible views, you’ll find some of the best from the rooftop terrace. Here you can lounge on a comfy bed or swim up to the edge of the infinity pool and take in your surroundings.

The Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa is a great place to unwind with a bespoke treatment using natural ingredients sourced from the brand’s vineyard. If you prefer to drink your wine, you’ll fall in love with the wine cellar, where you can indulge in tailor-made wine flights. You can also purchase your favorite bottles at Yeatman Wine Shop.

Rooms are all individually decorated and boast subtle themes and décor paying homage to a well-known Portuguese wine producer. If you’re in town for a special occasion, the two-bedroom Luxury Suite has a private pool and garden, a king-size bed set inside a giant restored port barrel, and a luxurious bath with a copper soaking tub.

Check Price & Availability on Booking.com

7. PortoBay Flores

A five-star hotel that combines modern convenience with historic elegance, PortoBay Flores is set inside a grandiose 16 th -century palace with a brand new wing built from scratch. By contrasting genuine elements that date back hundreds of years with state-of-the-art tech, this hotel creates a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.

A mature reading room with a stained glass ceiling, stone-clad lounges with roaring fireplaces, and an 18 th -century chapel are just some of the most compelling parts of the hotel. The modern Mandalay Spa Flores is just as tempting and offers a serene oasis in the middle of Porto Old Town.

We definitely recommend you make a reservation at Bistro Flores. Offering a new concept of “Bistronomy,” the dining room is set in what used to be old noble halls and is where you can indulge in authentic Portuguese dishes tastefully executed and accompanied by a wonderful selection of local wines by the glass. 

After dinner, you’ll love resting up in the chic rooms, which all boast plush beds with luxury linens, 55-inch smart TVs, and luxe baths with Rituals bath products.

8. InterContinental Porto

Housed in the extravagant 18 th -century Palacio das Cardosas in the center of Porto, InterContinental Port is within easy reach of the city’s major tourist attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring. But its unbeatable location isn’t the only reason this is one of the best hotels in Porto!

This outstanding hotel pairs age-old charm with state-of-the-art design to create its unique atmosphere. Sparkling chandeliers, velvet sofas, and marble columns blend harmoniously with amenities like the in-room Nespresso machines, cutting-edge gym equipment, and the restaurant’s innovative dishes.

Set aside some time for the incredible Astoria Brunch. Only available on weekends, this gourmet event is so delicious it’ll be a highlight of your trip!

The accommodation options come in the form of standard rooms, executive rooms, and suites. No matter which you choose, you’ll enjoy captivating city views, a plush bed, free WiFi access, and a huge marble bathroom with complimentary toiletries. 

If you like your space, we suggest making a reservation for a duplex suite. Spread out over two floors, these large rooms include two bathrooms and a separate living space.

9. Le Monumental Palace

Le Monumental Palace is just a few minutes’ walk away from Rue des Galeries de Paris, where you’ll find some of the city’s coolest cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops. This boutique hotel is an excellent choice if you want to immerse yourself in Porto’s dynamic culture. If you’re not in the mood to go out, you can order yourself a coffee at Cafe Monumental, the hotel’s highly-acclaimed café, which has been running since 1930.

Here you’ll find a fantastic choice of accommodation in the form of 63 guest rooms and 13 suites. Whichever option you go for, you’ll be rewarded with unique fabrics designed exclusively for the hotel, beautiful color palettes that inspire relaxation, and a Nespresso coffee machine. 

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, we recommend you stay in the Suite Monumentale. An apartment-style suite decorated like an old bourgeoisie home, this suite comes with a gigantic living space, huge windows, and a gorgeous marble bathroom with a freestanding tub.

Breakfast is an epicurean affair here! If you’re in no rush, you can treat yourself to the a la carte breakfast, which is served in your room or the dining room. Alternately, pick up a picnic breakfast and enjoy it in one of Porto’s lush parks.

10. M Maison Particulière

With all the luxury of a leading five-star hotel packed into a small regal property, M Maison Particulière is a cleverly redesigned 16 th -century house tucked away on one of Porto’s most beautiful streets. Framed by quaint cafes, intriguing boutiques, and delightful restaurants, this hotel is a fantastic place to stay if you want to experience a more local side of the city.

The elegant reception area is overseen by a dramatic chandelier and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the outdoors. The rough stone walls, original mosaic artwork, hidden marble busts, and dark wood furniture makes it feel like you’re staying in a real castle!

You won’t find any standard rooms here. Instead, each accommodation choice is distinctly different. The 10 suites on offer all feature a unique layout and design. From a magnificent wood-carved ceiling and private patio with city views to original artwork and period furniture, no two rooms are alike!

11. Exmo. Hotel

Exmo. Hotel is a cozy, welcoming hotel that encourages you to feel at home and integrate yourself into Porto’s inviting culture. Plus, the hotel enjoys a fantastic location, with Ribeira Square, Douro River, and Palacio da Bolsa practically on its doorstep.

Most of the rooms here are minimalist, with neutral color palettes, huge bathrooms, ultra-comfy beds, and great views. Some of the rooms do have their own touch of character in the form of exposed brick walls or quaint balconies. 

If you want something special, we recommend the Terrace Suite. Found on one of the highest floors of the hotel, this deluxe suite has unbeatable city views and a luxury bathroom with a double sink and designer toiletries.

Exmo. Bar is a great place to visit any time of day. In the morning, you can dig into a leisurely brunch featuring fresh, locally sourced products. As the day progresses, the menu transforms, offering a delightful choice of light meals that change according to the season. To help you relax, you’ll also find a selection of creative cocktails, craft beers, and hot beverages. 

12. Torel Palace Porto

An exquisite palace in the heart of Porto, Torel Palace Porto is a breathtaking mansion that’s been transformed into a remarkable five-star hotel. The building dates back to 1861 and has been delicately renovated, keeping as many original features as possible.

Torel Palace Porto is home to BLIND, one of the most incredible restaurants in Porto. Unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced, this restaurant offers secret 8- and 10-course menus accompanied by selected wines. You don’t know what you’ll get until it arrives, and when you do, you’re encouraged to eat and drink with your eyes closed to engage your other senses!

Other highlights of the hotel include the Calla Wellness & Spa, where you can pamper yourself with a comprehensive treatment menu complemented by Phyt’s organic and ecologically certified skincare line. Alternately, relax in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, which is hidden away from the rest of the world by thick vines and lush greenery.

The boutique hotel boasts 24 luxurious rooms and suites named after a Portuguese writer or poet. No matter which one you choose, you’ll love the blend of mid-century and classic furniture, funky artwork, and marble-clad bathrooms.

That completes our list of the 12 best boutique Porto hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Porto? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

Didn’t find the perfect porto hotel try searching here:.

Planning a trip to Portugal? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

Frequently Asked Questions

Boasting the finest views of Porto and the Douro River, the Yeatman is something of a landmark attraction itself. If you prefer to drink your wine, you’ll fall in love with the wine cellar, where you can indulge in tailor-made wine flights. You can also purchase your favorite bottles at Yeatman Wine Shop.

Torel Palace Porto is home to BLIND, one of the most incredible restaurants in Porto. Unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced, this restaurant offers secret 8 and 10-course menus accompanied by selected wines. You don’t know what you’ll get until it arrives, and when you do, you’re encouraged to eat and drink with your eyes closed to engage your other senses!

Housed in the extravagant 18th-century Palacio das Cardosas in the center of Porto, InterContinental Port is within easy reach of the city’s major tourist attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring. But its unbeatable location isn’t the only reason this is one of the best hotels in Porto!

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

Related Posts

12 Cool Boutique Hotels in Atlanta, Georgia

The 15 Best Things to Do in Normandy

The 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Vail, Colorado

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

A dive into Portuguese culture and traditions​

The north of Portugal is full of good surprises. But it’s on the banks of the Douro River that Portugal hides one of its greatest jewels: The city of Porto. The city is small in size, but large in tradition and modernity as few others can. It’s smaller than Lisbon , but in terms of leisure and gastronomy offers, it does not fall behind. Not to mention that the Porto region is home to some of the best Portuguese wines, such as the elegant Douro DOC, the fortified Port wine, and the exclusive green wines.

It is no wonder that Porto has won the hearts of tourists, and for years it has been recognized as the ‘best destination in Europe.’ In this Porto travel guide, you will find tips on what to do, where to eat, the best regions to stay, and much more.

How to plan a trip to Porto

Essential information.

Information

Capital of Northern Portugal Language:  Portuguese. Distances:  Lisbon (313km), Coimbra (121km), Faro (551km). The name Porto  comes from the Latin expression Portus Cale , which means “the place where boats dock”. Curiosity:  The city is affectionately called “Invicta”, and the residents are known as “tripeiros”.

Transportation

How to get there

Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport (OPO) is less than 20 minutes from the city center. The transfer from the airport to the central region can be done by  metro ,  bus ,  transfer , or taxi/transport by an app. There are also trains and  bus lines  that run from Lisbon to Porto.

In the city

Getting around

You can get to know the main tourist spots on foot, by subway, or by apps. There are trams, trains, and tourist buses that take you for tours all over Porto. Traffic is intense. It is only worth renting a car if you want to go further and see other cities in the region.

Best time to go

Porto is a year-round destination. July and August are hotter, but prices rise, and the city is packed with tourists. September is grape harvest time being the best time for a tour in the Douro and its wineries. From November to February, it rains and is colder. Places are less busy and cheaper.

Best areas and regions

Baixa do Porto/Sé: Close to Everything

In terms of location, it is the best area to stay. It is right in the heart of the city, close to famous sights and subway stations. The charm is in walking through the streets and getting to know the traditional Porto architecture. There are hotels for all tastes (and all budgets).

Cedofeita: Trendy and Charming

It is the place for those who want to know the more artistic and young side of Porto. It has art galleries and conceptual stores within a reasonable distance of the city’s main monuments. If you want to stay in the hustle and bustle, check out the Rua Galeria de Paris, that’s where the many trendy bars and restaurants are located.

Ribeira: With the Douro River View

Do you know those classic photos that show the Luiz I bridge and the colorful houses of Porto in the background? They are a portrait of Ribeira. The hotels are a little more expensive, but, on the other hand, you have the privilege of waking up with the view of the Douro River.

Foz do Douro: Seaside and Sophisticated

Foz do Douro is known for being one of the noblest regions of Porto, with excellent infrastructure and the advantage of being seaside. The hotels are more expensive, but the location is ideal for those looking to relax a bit further from the tourist center.

Best hotels and accommodation

Where to stay in porto.

Our Selection

Where to stay in Porto: Best regions and accommodations

Things to see, porto in frames.

Porto is a city that stands between the traditional and the modern.  You will notice this when walking through the streets and see fancy buildings sharing space with century-old buildings rich in architectural details. Take a look at the traditional Portuguese tiles on the threshing floors and banks of the street markets. Ah, if you can, take some time at the riverside and watch the boats come and go in the Douro without haste.

Foods and drinks

What to eat in porto.

Portuguese cuisine is wonderful. At every corner, you will find more and more restaurants, emporiums, bars, taverns… The most popular ones are faithful to traditional recipes and take advantage of those homemade seasonings that resemble grandma’s house. Expect to find a simple (but very friendly) service, combined with hearty meals, authentic and entitled to a lot of wine and seafood.

For a few years now, the gastronomic scene in Porto has gained a new face. Hipsters cafes, good vegetarian options, and restaurants by renowned chefs – with Michelin stars. The offer is quite democratic: from small taverns with popular prices to fine dining restaurants with more expensive menus.

5 Must-try Foods & Drinks

Francesinha.

A symbol of Porto,  Francesinha is a sandwich  that takes bread, steak, sausage, ham – all covered with melted cheese and a slightly spicy sauce. If not enough, it comes with potato chips as an accompaniment.

Where to eat? 

Yuko Tavern, Café Santiago, Brasão Cervejaria.

It is on the menu of most restaurants in the city. Get ready to try different versions of cod dishes , from dumplings and stews to hamburgers and pies.

Terra Nova, Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau or Bacalhoeiro in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Tripas à Moda do Porto

Legend has it that the recipe appeared at the time of the Great Navigations. It is still a classic, even today. The stew is made with sausage, tripes, and white beans.

A Cozinha do Manel, or Líder Restaurant.

It is the typical drink of northern Portugal. Compared to regular wines, fortified wine is sweeter and stronger (the alcohol content can reach 22%).

Where to drink? 

Wine Quay Bar, Capela Incomum or at the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

A famous ingredient in many Portuguese dishes along the entire coast. In Porto, it is no different. Be sure to try the breaded octopus fillets and the Octopus à Lagareiro’, seasoned with olive oil and garlic.

Puro 4050, Solar Moinho de Vento.

Best places to eat Francesinha in Porto

Places to visit, things to do in porto.

Porto gathers almost everything tourists look for in one place:  historical addresses, good restaurants, viewpoints, rivers, beaches, wineries, museums, art galleries, popular festivals … The truth is that the city of Porto is full of dishes for every type of traveler and offers programs that suit all tastes. If you have enough time, book at least three nights to get to know it.

Tip! Before setting up the itinerary, check if it’s worth purchasing the Porto.CARD . The card guarantees free entry to some museums and discounts up to 50% at various attractions and restaurants. It’s not expensive and can be  purchased online  or at  physical points of sale .

Historic center

The region is best explored on foot, going up and down the slopes and closely watching the century-old architecture. São Bento Station, Torre dos Clérigos,  Palácio da Bolsa  and Capela das Almas are unmissable. The famous  Lello bookshop  is also in the historic center.

Museums and cultural centers

There are more than 20 museums around Porto. A good part of them shares the history of Portugal and its traditions, such as the  Soares dos Reis National Museum  and the  FC Porto museum . Also, be sure to visit the contemporary exhibitions of the  Serralves Foundation  and check the  Casa de Música  (Music Hall) schedule.

Street markets and fairs

No place is better to know the Porto lifestyle than the popular markets and street fairs. The Bolhão Market is the most famous and traditional, but it is undergoing renovation since 2018. For now, it is possible to visit the  Temporary Market of Bolhão . There you will find flowers, fruits, meats, fish, bread… Now, to find antiques and trinkets, the right place is the Vandoma Fair, a flea market that opens every Saturday at Estádio do Dragão.

Boat trips along the Douro

Sailing the Douro River is one of the “mandatory” programs for everyone who goes to Porto. There are several tour options from the Ribeira marinas. The most traditional is the “River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise”, a more compact tour. But there are also options for tours in the Douro that include lunch, visits to wineries, and wine tasting. Read more on our Douro Valley Travel Guide .

Viewpoints (Miradouros)

Porto is even more beautiful when seen from above. There are more than 20 viewpoints spread throughout the city. Knowing this, keep your camera ready to get different angles of this beautiful city. The best views are from the viewpoints of Sé Cathedral, Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardim do Palácio de Cristal) and Passeio das Virtudes.

Port Wine Cellars

The Porto region has so many cellars that it’s difficult to choose which one to visit. Just cross the Luiz I bridge to reach Vila Nova de Gaia, and you’ll understand what the Portuguese mean by “the highest concentration of alcohol per square meter in the world.” It is not an exaggeration: the cellars are positioned almost in sequence. The most famous are  Graham’s ,  Taylor’s ,  Sandeman , and  Real Companhia Velha . At  Espaço Porto Cruz , you can find a bit of everything: the building has interactive exhibitions, a tasting room, a restaurant and a rooftop that serves cocktails based on regional wine – all with a view of the Douro River.

Not everyone knows, but the metro in Porto takes you to the beach. You can reach the coastal city of Matosinhos in less than half an hour from Trindade station. It is very popular with residents and tourists who want to swim and enjoy the seafood, whether at the Matosinhos Municipal Market or one of the many seafood restaurants. Another classic program is to visit the stores and factories of traditional Portuguese canned fish . Conserva Pinhais & Cia offers guided tours that tell about the fishing tradition and show the production processes that the brand has been using for over 100 years.

Itinerary Ideas

What to do in Porto, north of Portugal

Activities and tours, book tours in porto.

Douro Valley Wine Tour with 3 Wineries and Lunch

Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tastings, Boat Trip & Lunch

Porto Petiscos and Wine Tour

Green Wine Region Tour with Wine Tastings and Lunch

Porto Brunch Petiscos Tour

Private Tour in the Douro Valley with 2 Wineries

Private Tour in the Douro Valley with 3 Wineries

Douro Valley Wine Tour with 2 Wineries and Lunch

Explore the region, day trips from porto.

Located in the metropolitan region of Porto, Matosinhos is famous for its beaches. It has several options for walks, such as the Municipal Market and the Church of Bom Jesus. Take the opportunity to eat at seafood restaurants known as Marisqueiras.

The municipality of Guimarães is considered the birthplace of Portugal. A famous tourist spot is the Castle of Guimarães, built in the 10th century to protect the region against attacks by Vikings and Moors.

Braga is considered the oldest city in Portugal with more than 2,000 years old, famous for its gardens, churches, and palaces.

The city of Aveiro is also known as “Portuguese Veneza” for its river channels. Take the opportunity to try the sweet delicacy called ovos moles de Aveiro (soft eggs, made with egg yolk and sugar), a local gem.

Excellent place to spend a sunny day, either on the beach or walking by the sea. In addition to the traditional striped houses, Costa Nova attracts many people who enjoy water sports and good seafood restaurants.

Before your trip

Get inspired.

Porto (2017)

The film’s story revolves around two foreigners who know each other in Porto.

The Book of Disquiet (1982)

One of the best works of the great Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa.

Parts Unknown in Porto

Delicious memories of Anthony Bourdain discovering Porto. Season 9 Episode 8.

additional resources

More portugal.

Best tascas and restaurants to go in Lisbon

Luxury hotels with renowned restaurants in Portugal

Cod fish: Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá

What is Bacalhau: Meet the ‘faithful friend’ of Portuguese cuisine

Where to stay in Lisbon: Best areas and hotels

15 amazing places and cities to visit in Portugal

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

17 of the most beautiful Portugal holiday destinations for your next getaway

These stunning escape-to-the-sun hotspots should be on your must-visit Portugal holiday destinations list

Much like Spain and Greece 's top places to visit, Portugal's best beauty spots are well worth adding to your bucket list. For a cultural buzz on sun-soaked streets, head to Lisbon. The Portuguese capital offers historic architecture, authentic fare, traditional museums and contemporary hotels aplenty; don't forget to take in the sites on the city's famous yellow trams, too.

Meanwhile, wine-lovers and foodies should plan a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Porto and the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards and mountain-scapes meet traditional architecture and delightful food markets.

Sun-seekers will love the vast stretches of beaches in the Algarve , that also makes a fantastic getaway for golfing fans, as well as cycling and walking enthusiasts.

And anyone looking for a rustic, authentic experience should head to Alentejo, home to medieval villages and farm-to-fork eateries. Our insider tip? The chic, boho crowd heads to the low-key yet luxe coastal retreat of Comporta for top-notch seafood and vast swathes of powdery sand. We highly recommend you do the same.

We've rounded up the top Portugal holiday destinations below so you can start planning your next adventure – and where to stay when you get there. Suitcases at the ready...

Just a short three-hour flight will land you in Portugal’s famed capital city of Lisbon. An urban paradise that's brimming with culture, history and even more fascinating scenery, this is a city break destination that should be right at the top of your travel bucket list.

Be sure to stop off at Lisbon’s main square, where you can view some beautiful Portuguese architecture and head through the ‘Door to Lisbon’, which leads to the true heart of the city. Here, you’ll find authentic restaurants, boutique shops and traditional museums to visit.

Jump aboard one of Lisbon’s famous yellow 1930s 'Remodelado' trams to take an adventure up and over the rolling hills – it’s a great way to see the city in all its glory. Be sure to stop off in the area of Alfama, famed as one of the best neighbourhoods in the city for architecture and sunsets.

What also makes Lisbon such a perfect getaway is its proximity to some of the beautiful, quaint coastal towns and villages just a short half-hour train journey out of the city centre, such as Cascais and Tavira.

Where to stay: The Palácio Ludovice is Lisbon’s exclusive wine experience hotel, which is the perfect destination if you're looking for a place to stay in the heart of Lisbon to explore the true spirit of the city. The former private residence of João Federico Ludovice, architect to King João V in the 18th century, it boasts 61 luxurious rooms and suites, as well as an elegant courtyard restaurant, Caudalie spa and gym. It's right between the Chiado, Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real neighbourhoods, facing the beautiful panoramic views of the São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint and the emblematic Glória Tram.

The island of Madeira boasts beautiful natural surroundings, from staggering mountains to idyllic coastlines. On the same latitude as Morocco, the island has a sub-tropical climate and rich volcanic soil. Its unique ecosystem means that it is one of the only places in the world where banana trees grow next to vineyards. Little wonder, then, that it's often referred to as the ' floating garden of the Atlantic'.

The lifestyle on the island centres around nature, adventure and outdoor activities, which suits Madeira’s warm and mild climate. You can expect sun and clear skies all year round: well-known as a popular summer destination, Madeira is equally as enticing in the winter months, with something to offer every traveller.

Looking for an active Portugal holiday destination? You won't be disappointed, with rugged mountains lending themselves perfectly to biking routes, golf courses with stunning panoramic views and walking trails, such as a hike through the beautiful Laurissilva forest.

You can also discover the region’s many ‘Levadas’, small irrigation canals which weave in and around the mountains of Madeira. Plus, a visit to this island would not be complete without a trip to the warm waters, dive sites and long sandy beaches of Porto Santo.

Where to stay: Madeira is famed for its wellness attributes due to its mineral-rich volcanic soil, clean, clear waters and unique ecosystem – so there is no better place to enjoy a well-deserved break at one of the island's many spa resorts, such as The Cliff Bay . The recently refurbished five-star hotel has direct access to the sea, epic views over the bay of Funchal, a two Michelin star restaurant and beautiful gardens to explore.

Alternatively, you can explore Madeira on Good Housekeeping 's exclusive eight-day tour of the island during the wonderful Flower Festival every May . The itinerary also includes visits to the Funchal Botanical Gardens and the Quinta do Arco Rose Garden, a vineyard tour with wine tasting, and a stay in a five-star hotel just outside of Funchal, where you can kick back in the bar, sauna, gym or one of the hotel's two swimming pools after a busy day exploring. You can book ahead now to secure your spot for 2025.

Historically a refuge for Portuguese nobility during WWII, and now an elegant blend of 19th-century architecture and traditional Portuguese charm, Cascais is a paradise for those seeking endless culture, sun and sand.

The historic wealth of Cascais’ royal past is still visible on every winding cobbled street, with grand palaces and extravagant villas dotted in between chic boutiques and classic eateries.

An as-yet-undiscovered region of Portugal that is just 20 minutes by train from the capital of Lisbon, the charming cultural town of Cascais and neighbouring palatial Sintra offer a welcome escape for a more refined, relaxed break.

Experiences not to be missed include: the casino that inspired Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale, the world-famous gelato shop Santini, and sailing, golfing, water sports, museums, and countless seaside walks showcasing the beauty of Portugal. It’s easy to take a day trip into Lisbon, too, or venture out to the fairytale palaces of nearby Sintra – just be sure to take the coastal route for scenic views.

Where to stay: Check into Onyria Marinha , a family-friendly boutique hotel ideally located close to the area's attractions and sites. Little ones will be well taken-care-of at the Kids Club, while adults enjoy some well-deserved 'me time' between the spa and 18-hole golf course before embarking on a tour of the region.

If you’re looking to get away from it all in an off-the-beaten-track location, Sagres, on the westernmost tip of the Algarve, is just the ticket. It’s a haven for surfers and walkers, and is rugged, wild and windswept.

Take in the local sights, including Baleeira Harbour, Mareta Beach view, Praça da República, Sagres Fortress monument and St. Vincent Cape. Cycle on the Ecovia trail to discover the natural marvels of the region, including the lush greenery of the Costa Vicentina Nature Park, the birdwatching haven of the Alvor Estuary and the majestic cliffs of Sagres Point.

And walkers can explore the Via Algarviana trails . The route crosses 11 of the 16 municipalities of the region, offering the chance to discover the diverse natural landscapes and culture by foot.

Where to stay: Located on the western tip of Portugal’s Algarve coast, Martinhal Family Hotels & Resorts ’ flagship Sagres hotel has something for everyone, with kids clubs and a huge variety of activities ranging from cycling to surfing. It's spread out over 220,000 square metres and boasts its own access to a 700m beach.

Otherwise, if you have an eye on the budget, Memmo Baleeira is a great affordable option for couples and solo travellers who still want the luxury of staying just a few meters from the beach.

Alentejo is an intriguing mountainous region steeped in culture and ‘off the beaten track’ gems to explore. Boasting both mountains and a rugged coastline adorned with coves, Alentejo really is the adventurer's and surfer’s dream. It's also home to many historic, medieval towns and villages such as Evora and Elvas, now recognised UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with unique museums, architecture and restaurants.

Take a day trip to the laid-back locale of Comporta, a protected nature reserve and fisherman’s village that offers oyster farms, local markets, river sunsets and horse riding. Enjoy the walking trails of Rota Vicentina spreading across the fields and mountain ranges of the region and the Vicentine Coast, including highlights such as The Historical Way and The Fishermen’s Trail. Alternatively, for bike lovers, the Rota Vicentina offers a network of dedicated cycle routes.

Where to stay: While in the region, stay at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova , located in Albernoa, Beja, in the heart of the Baixo Alentejo region. This lovely Relais & Chateaux hotel and winery seamlessly combines contemporary style with unique traditions, offering activities such as a romantic picnic in the vineyards, chocolate tasting and bread baking.

The Comporta region, with its hippy-chic atmosphere, is located just one hour south of Lisbon at the base of the Troia Peninsula.

This picturesque Portugal holiday destination is made up of seven sleepy villages offering a beautiful, laid-back and low-key beach escape with 12km of pristine sand.

A longtime favourite holiday destination for locals, Comporta is now slowly becoming known and loved by the international set, including a number of designers, such as Christian Louboutin. This is due mainly to its simple charm and magical landscapes of rice fields and pine forests, thatched cottages and long unspoilt golden sandy beaches.

You can soak up sunsets and views over stretches of fine sand watching dolphins playing in the surf while enjoying locally-caught seafood at rustic beach shacks. Bliss.

Where to stay: Don't miss Sublime Comporta , a luxury eco-lodge where the natural environment meets contemporary design. Sandwiched between miles of empty white sandy beaches and the Sado River estuary, it’s hard to believe that this is Europe. Describing itself as a country house retreat, Sublime sits in its own 17-hectare estate, with the suites and villas scattered among pine and cork trees and drifting swathes of wild flowers.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Porto is a city not to be missed off your bucket list for a whirlwind trip of culture, adventure, relaxation and food. If you're short on time, Porto has it all in one place. With sprawling food markets, laid back Douro River cruises and stunning architecture, there's never a shortage of places to explore and things to do.

Sitting in the Mediterranean weather belt, the city boasts plenty of dry and pleasant days. Famed worldwide for its port, wine and culinary delights, a visit to WOW, World of Wine , in Porto is a must. WOW pays homage to the region, and shines a light on the most important Portuguese industries and traditions. It's an entire district full of new and exciting things to do, explore, and learn with nine restaurants, shops, exhibitions and events.

Plus, a great way to see the region is by taking the luxurious Presidential Train . Built in 1870, the Presidential Train carried presidents, heads of state, Kings and popes for over a century. Today, you can enjoy an unforgettable journey from the city of Porto, through the stunning countryside stopping off at vineyards and staying in boutique hotels along the way.

Where to stay: Look down over the historic city from your terrace at The Yeatman , a five-star spa hotel offering upscale gastronomy and local wines.

NEYA Porto Hotel is also an excellent pick if you're looking for an affordable, modern and comfortable sport in the centre of town.

Douro Valley

Porto is the gateway to the Douro Valley, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a lovely idea to combine a break to Porto with a longer stay in the Douro Valley. An epicurean paradise, the sun-dappled mountainscape is the oldest wine-making region in the world, and makes for a stunning Portugal holiday destination.

Take a cruise along the river, which winds lazily through verdant vine-enhanced terraces. Or take to the water in a canoe or by water skiing. You can also enjoy cycling through the countryside, forest hikes and picnics in the woods. There's culture to be soaked up, too.

Start at Vila Nova de Gaia with a visit to the lodges where Port wine is aged. Or head to the Peso da Régua to visit the Douro Museum to learn more about the region. And don't miss Lamego, considered one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Portugal, located at the base of an immense blue and white tiled flight of steps leading to the Shrine of Nossa Senhora dos Remédi.

Where to stay: Drop your bags off at Octant Douro , a contemporary, design-led hotel that blends into its surroundings and offers sweeping views across the Douro River. Embedded within spectacular scenery from every angle, the spa hotel is flooded with natural light and offers a menu of treatments, sessions with visiting practitioners, immersive dining experiences and exclusive boat excursions. Boasting a Michelin-starred chef, the hotel is a must-visit for food and wine lovers, too.

Alternatively, taste the wines of the Douro during Good Housekeeping 's relaxing eight-day river cruise in autumn, when you can also take part in the harvest, picking grapes and crushing them by foot.

FIND OUT MORE

Rugged red cliffs, stretches of golden beaches, delicious local cuisine and beautiful traditional villages: this is what the Algarve is famous for.

The southernmost region of Portugal, it enjoys around 300 days of sunshine each year, making it one of the most popular Portuguese spots for UK travellers. The region's capital, Faro, is a diverse and intriguing city. Steeped in history, the charming old town is surrounded by ancient city walls, while the pretty city centre is filled with pedestrianised shopping streets and peaceful plazas.

The city is also the gateway to the Ria Formosa nature park, a series of saltwater lagoons and mudflats that are a haven for migratory birds and wildlife.

Beyond the Ria Formosa are three sandbar islands, which are the location of Faro’s pristine beaches, along with traditional fishing communities. Explore nearby towns of Olhão and Loulé, both famous for their markets to experience a truly cultural stay in the Algarve.

Where to stay: Surrounded by citrus trees, pink bougainvillaea and olive groves sits Octant Vila Monte in an unspoilt corner of the Algarve, around a 20-minute drive from Faro. It's the epitome of boho chic with an array of beautifully designed luxury suites and rooms. The design takes its cues from traditional Algarve architecture with whitewashed walls, wooden trusses and rustic roof terraces. Just a stone’s throw away from Faro, and the quieter fishing village of Olhão, it's a destination for all generations.

This lovely town on the sparkling Bay of Cascais offers the best of both worlds – it’s a place where you can really get away from it all by the seaside, but it’s also just a short and easy hop from all the culture and other lures of Lisbon.

If you have a hire car, it’s a 40-minute drive west of the capital, or there are great-value trains from Cais do Sodré station by Lisbon's waterfront every 10-20 minutes, taking 30-40 minutes and offering glorious river and sea views as you travel.

Estoril itself has uncrowded beaches (Tamariz being the most popular), a pretty promenade to stroll, coastal paths perfect for bike rides, tennis courts and golf courses, while local culture can be ferreted out in its various art galleries and museums. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Casino Estoril, either, while surfers should head to the nearby Praia do Quincho, one of the most famous beaches in Portugal.

Where to stay: Relax on the Portuguese coast with Good Housekeeping 's exclusive four-night yoga break at the Palácio Estoril , a glamorous grand hotel that opened in the 1930s. It's ideally located for the beaches as well as being fantastic for a spot of self care. The GH package offers the best of both worlds, with private yoga classes and spoiling treatments at the three-storey Banyan Tree spa, as well as plenty of free time to explore the region.

Quinta do Lago

Golf fanatics are well-catered-for in Portugal, and you can play a round on one of the stunning courses in the exclusive ‘Golden Triangle’ of the Algarve: Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lago.

Set among 2,000 acres of the picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park and just a 15-minute drive from Faro airport, Quinta do Lago has been at the forefront of Europe’s elite golf, sports and family destinations for nearly five decades and features a combination of world-class golf and lifestyle facilities.

As well as three 18-hole championship golf courses and outstanding practice facilities, you can enjoy an array of sports at the state-of-the-art performance centre The Campus, a world-class sports hub designed for professionals and amateurs alike to train and live well.

Complementing the facilities is a choice of 13 first-class bars and restaurants that deliver a range of delicious world cuisines, including the acclaimed Bovino Steakhouse and UMAMI, the resort’s first Asian restaurant. What's more, you might even spot some celebrities, with everyone from Wayne Rooney to Madonna having visited the resort.

Where to stay: Paying homage to the iconic vintage motel, The Magnolia Hotel brings a taste of Palm Springs to the Algarve. It's ideal for families, couples and solo travellers of all ages, set in the heart of the resort and a perfect base for enjoying everything from water sports on the lake to cycle rides through the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Vila Real de Santo António

There’s a reason the Algarve is a perennial holiday favourite for tourists – as well as sunny Atlantic-facing beaches, golf courses and buzzy marinas, it has charming towns, such as Vila Real de Santo António, a traditional Portuguese fishing town directly opposite the Spanish border.

Spain is just over the Guadiana River and you’ll be able to hop on a ferry to the town of Ayamonte if you fancy swapping country for the day. A 20-minute drive west is the equally attractive Algarve destination of Cacela Velha, a tiny hilltop village.

But there's much to see in the town itself, too. Think typical Pombaline-styled buildings, a grand central plaza, as well as pristine pine forests (home to the Mediterranean chameleon) that lead to beautiful deserted beaches.

Where to stay: For a hotel that lives up to its striking surroundings, book a stay at Pousada Vila Real de Santo Antonio , which has all the stucco ceilings, parquet floors, vintage tiling and wrought-iron details you could hope for. Housed across four historic buildings in one of the prettiest squares around, these old Customs Offices have been transformed into a stylish design-led hotspot boasting three pools – including one on the rooftop.

For an Atlantic adventure, this is the far-flung archipelago for you, with islands that have emerald-green cliffs, quiet fishing villages and spectacular landscapes. The largest of the nine islands is São Miguel, known for its volcanic peaks, cedar forests, crater lakes and tea plantation. Also known as 'the Hawaii of the mid-Atlantic', the Azores are an excellent destination for whale-watching, sailing, canyoning, water-sports, diving and, of course, hiking – the coastal trails in particular are truly magnificent. Three of the islands, Corvo, Flores and Graciosa, have been decreed biospheres by UNESCO. Where to stay: Enjoy the Azores’ subtropical climate at Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort , on its namesake beach in São Miguel. As the name suggests, the retreat aims to be as sustainable as possible, with natural materials such as cork and bamboo used in the construction.

The former capital Coimbra is a university town on the banks of the Mondego River in central Portugal, roughly mid-way between Porto and Lisbon. The medieval old town is the highlight, but the ancient university is rather special, too – it has a baroque library and a bell tower that dates back to the 18th century. The university was founded in 1290 and it’s rumoured to have formed some of the inspiration for Hogwarts. The historic quarter also has a Romanesque cathedral that was built in the 12th century.

Indeed, many think of Coimbra as a mini-Lisbon, offering all the excitement and intrigue of a city but without the madding crowds. Make sure to take some time wandering the mazes of narrow streets, savouring local delicacies at tiny tascas (budget eateries), enjoying the authentic vibes at the vibrant Mercado Municipal market, visiting the Machado de Castro Museum and by night, listening to some authentic fado folk music in a club or on a street corner.

Where to stay: Tivoli Coimbra Hotel is perfectly placed for guests who want to explore Coimbra’s old town – you’ll be within walking distance of most of the major sights. And helpfully, it has a coffee shop to ensure you’re suitably caffeinated for the day ahead.

In the province of Estremadura, Óbidos is a little over an hour’s drive north of Lisbon. The picturesque medieval town has been perfectly preserved, with a castle within the city walls and a labyrinth of whitewashed houses and winding streets to happily lose yourself in. There are several churches to visit, as well as an aqueduct beyond the walls. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to a restaurant to try bouillabaisse made with fish from the lagoon, washed down with wine from Oeste; or try the region’s sour-cherry brandy. The town hosts events all year round, from a chocolate festival to open-air concerts come summer. And this close to the Atlantic, you’re never far from a gorgeous beach – even the golf courses overlook the ocean. Where to stay: Spend the night in an ancient castle (only one with WiFi and room service) by checking in to Pousada Castelo de Obidos . Steeped in more than 1,000 years of history, it features medieval elements from the 9th century as well as a seriously romantic restaurant.

Alternatively, for something a little more modern, try the nearby Casa das Senhoras Rainhas . It's located within the medieval walls of Óbidos, has just 15 rooms and boasts classical-mannerist architecture and great views.

Peneda-Gerês

Portugal only has one national park: Peneda-Gerês, close to the Spanish border in the country’s far north. Visitors can call in at small towns such as Soajo in Arcos de Valdedez, with traditional stone barns that are a few centuries old. The hilly landscape is home to golden eagles, wild horses, wolves and deer. Other highlights include a hiking trail along a Roman road, the spa town of Gerês and the village of Lindoso, which has a medieval castle and more of the region’s famous stone granaries. Where to stay: Pousadela Village is a collection of guesthouses within the national park, designed to respect local history and crafts, as well as the surrounding nature. It’s about 60 miles from Porto’s airport.

The Algarve’s ancient capital, Silves was a stronghold and trading hub during the Moorish era. The pretty town has narrow cobbled streets leading to its cathedral, a castle and a harbour to explore – or you can just enjoy the atmosphere from one of the alfresco cafes. Within the municipality is Armarção de Pêra, a popular resort town with a fortress that was built in 1667. It was initially a fishing community, with a wide bay and smaller coves below the region’s signature ochre sandstone cliffs. Where to stay: Vila Vita Parc is one of the finest hotels in the Algarve, not least because of its impressive wine cellar. It’s also home to several restaurants, one of which has two Michelin stars, another that's a breezy eatery down by the beach, and one where you’ll be serenaded by Fado singers. Plus, the resort has a Sisley spa and a swim-up bar. What more could you wish for?

READ OUR REVIEW AND BOOK

More European holiday ideas:

- The best Greece holiday destinations

- The best hotels in Rhodes

- The European holidays worthy of your bucket list

- Amazing ways to experience Italy

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

Why Uniworld is world's best river cruise line

10 travel toiletry bags for your next holiday

The best Italian family holidays

The most amazing ways to experience Italy

10 bucket list worthy European holidays for 2024

The best hotels in Rhodes

16 best Christmas hotels in the UK

The best hotels in Malta for 2024

The best long-haul holidays to take this year

The 2025 holidays to book now

The best dog-friendly hotels in the UK for 2024

• Suggested Resorts

Current Available Points

• Buzzworthy News Owner Testimonials Pride of Ownership Tour the Club Using My Ownership VIP by Wyndham Presidential Reserve
• Search Resorts Featured Destinations Travel Inspiration Resort News Vacation Planner Explore Destinations
• New Owner Quick Start Dig into Club Life Education Webinars Resources
• Non-Owner Travel Deals Owner Exclusives Club Wyndham Travel Travel Up by Travel + Leisure Owner Travel Deals Partner Offers VIP Exclusives
• Make A Payment Ask and Answer Glossary Contact Us
• Sign In Register
• Skip to Main Content
• Buzzworthy News
• Owner Testimonials
• Pride of Ownership
• Tour the Club
• Using My Ownership
• VIP by Wyndham
• Presidential Reserve
• Search Resorts
• Travel Inspiration
• Resort News
• Vacation Planner
• Explore Destinations
• Dig into Club Life
• Education Webinars
• Non-Owner Travel Deals
• Club Wyndham Travel Travel Up by Travel + Leisure
• Owner Travel Deals
• Partner Offers
• VIP Exclusives
• Make A Payment
• Ask and Answer
• Current Available Points >

CLUB WYNDHAM TRAVEL

18-day best of europe, june 2024 - june 2025.

Enjoy 18 days of adventure throughout Europe with Cosmos. Departs from London, England.

Tour Details

A European tour should include the most popular and exciting cities, the must-see sights, picturesque scenery, and a mix of culture, history, and just plain fun. This, and more, is what you get on the Best of Europe tour. Visit London, where you could join one of our optional excursions or just discover the city at leisure. From there, cross the Channel on the Eurostar train to Brussels and then continue by coach to discover many diverse continental destinations. Local Guides will tell you all about Amsterdam’s canals; Rome’s St Peter Square; Florence’s Renaissance old city center with a replica of the “David” by Michelangelo; Pompeii, where you’ll see what life was like during the Roman Empire; Paris’s most famous landmarks, and much more. 

As you journey through Europe, you’ll also enjoy spectacular scenery, such as the picturesque Rhineland with its scenic countryside, historic castles, and charming villages, and breathtaking views of the Italian and French Rivieras. Sit back and relax as you drive past the Burgundy vineyards in France and through gorgeous alpine landscapes from Switzerland to Italy. Marvel at the beauty of Tuscany with its rural villages, rolling hills, vineyards, rows of cypress trees, and olive groves, and stand in awe as you witness the blue sea and amazing views on the Sorrento coast and the legendary island of Capri. Last but not least, you’ll love the green hills and valleys as you travel through Umbria to visit medieval Assisi. All of this and more await you on this dream European vacation designed for value-minded keen travelers!

Package Includes:

6 Countries | 17 Breakfasts | 3 Dinners | 17-Night Hotel Stay

Accommodations: 

• London: Novotel London West    
• Amsterdam: Holiday Inn Express Arena Towers
• Wiesbaden: Holiday Inn Express Wiesbaden
• Lucerne: Drei Koenige
• Venice Poppi
• Rome: BV Oly Hotel
• Sorrento: Central Park
• Florence: B&B Firenze City Center
• Nice: Ibis Styles Nice Vieux Port
• Grenoble: Mercure Alpotel
• Day 1 : London, England
• Day 2 : London
• Day 3 : London – Brussels – Amsterdam, The Netherlands
• Day 4 : Amsterdam – Wiesbaden, Germany
• Day 5 : Wiesbaden – Heidelberg – Lucerne, Switzerland
• Day 6 : Lucerne
• Day 7 : Lucerne – Verona, Italy – Vernice Area
• Day 8 : Venice Area
• Day 9 : Venice Area – Assisi - Rome
• Day 10 : Rome
• Day 11: Rome – Pompeii – Sorrento Coast
• Day 12: Sorrento Coast. Excursion to Capri
• Day 13: Sorrento Coast – Florence
• Day 14: Florence – Pisa – Eze, France – French Riviera
• Day 15: French Riviera – Orange – Grenoble
• Day 16: Grenoble – Beaune – Paris
• Day 17: Paris
• Day 18: Paris, France

Reserve Your Tour Today Call 800-732-0203

Cruise Details

Indulge in French flavors on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. While you’ll get more than a taste of Burgundy and Provence during this itinerary, the essence of these destinations will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!

4 Ports | 1 Country | 6 Excursions | Roundtrip

• Day 1 : Porto, Portugal
• Day 2 : Entre-os Rios, Portugal
• Day 3 : Peso da Régua, Portugal
• Day 4 : Vega de Terron, Spain
• Day 5 : Barca d’Alva, Portugal
• Day 6 : Peso da Régua, Portugal
• Day 7 : Porto, Portugal
• Day 8 : Porto, Portugal 

PlusPoints is a payment option for PlusPartner owners that entails a combination of points and cash toward select Club Wyndham Travel bookings. The amount of points allowed per booking is subject to change and is based on the cost of the tour. PlusPoints can be used for the first two passengers in a room and allows owners the flexibility to use less points than listed and use more cash toward the reservation. PlusPoints is subject to change and availability. PlusPoints bookings will be assessed a non-refundable $69 PlusPartner point exchange fee. Points that are PlusPartners-qualified may not be rented during the Express Reservation window.

Tour and rates are subject to change and availability. Rates are listed per person based on double occupancy per room. Flights, airport transportation, and meals other than other specified are not included. Excursion during leisure time, upgraded excursions, and incidental expenses are not included. Additional taxes, fees, and restrictions may apply. Tours, events, and excursions may include extensive walking and/or uneven terrain. Travelers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply. Travel is arranged by Club Wyndham Travel, 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821.

• Pride of Ownership Using My Ownership Owner Testimonials How To Use a Club Wyndham Timeshare Buying a Club Wyndham Timeshare Buzzworthy News
• Explore Resorts Featured Destinations Resort News Traveler's Pledge
• New Owner Quick Start Resources
• Owner Exclusives Partner Offers Wyndham Vacation Packages Wyndham Sweeps
• Publications
• Wyndham Cares
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Seller of Travel
• Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information - Consumers
• Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information - Former Employees (California)

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

This Gorgeous European City Was Just Named the Most Walkable Destination in the World

Looking for a great walkable city? Here's why you need to make your way to Florence, Italy.

Maremagnum/Getty Images

Ready to take a stroll? A new list is uncovering the most walkable cities in the world, including the No. 1 pick, where the top five local attractions are all within a half-mile radius. 

Earlier this year, the financial website Insider Monkey shared its list of the most walkable cities in the world, which it created using sources like Tourlane and WalkScore. It then took those scores, mapped the distance between each destination's top five tourist attractions, and checked its air quality using IQAir data and crime and safety indexes to further ensure walkability. After looking at all the information, it named Florence the most walkable place on earth. 

"Topping the list is Florence, Italy — a city that offers Renaissance history and timeless architecture with each step," the findings shared. "Florence's walkability seeps through in its historic center, where narrow lanes lead to landmarks like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio."

According to the report, the city's air quality is also ranked well. Its major landmarks, including the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Piazza del Duomo, and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, are all within 0.5 miles of each other, making it easy to walk to them all within 10 minutes.

Joining Florence at the top of the list is Riga, Latvia, in the No. 2 spot, with its top tourist destinations all within 1.5 miles; Hamburg, Germany, in third with its spots within two miles; and Porto, Portugal in fourth, with its best attractions within 2.2 miles.

Rounding out the top five is Madrid, where travelers will find all the best attractions within 2.2 miles. The city came with a slightly lower air quality index than Portugal, dropping it just one spot further down the list. Still, it's a place the team notes is well worth walking around.

"The city's walkability is most evident in central areas like Puerta del Sol and Retiro Park, which are both historic landmarks," it stated. "Madrid also has an accessible public transport system which complements the city's walkable layout."

See which other cities ranked in the top 30 most walkable cities at insidermonkey.com . 

Related Articles