Porto is like that effortlessly cool friend who’s always fun, full of surprises and happens to make excellent wine. This charming city blends medieval streets, golden sunsets and delicious food into a perfect getaway. Whether you’re here for the famous Port wine, breathtaking river views, or just an excuse to eat tasty food every day, Porto won’t disappoint!
Where to Stay:
We would recommend booking a package holiday with one of the following trusted travel companies, to ensure your trip runs smoothly and for financial peace of mind, they are all ATOL protected.
Top Hotel Picks:
Torel Avantgarde, OnTheBeach – A stylish boutique hotel with jaw-dropping views over the Douro River. Think artsy décor, a dreamy spa, a rooftop pool and a breakfast that will make you want to move in permanently.
The Yeatman, EasyJet – Porto’s ultimate luxury wine hotel! Stunning river views, Michelin-star dining, a spa with wine-infused treatments and an infinity pool that makes you feel like you’re floating over Porto. Pure indulgence!
Pestana Palacio do Freixo, TUI – A literal palace turned hotel! Stay in 18th-century elegance with grand chandeliers, riverside gardens, a beautiful pool and top-notch service. Feel like royalty—minus the strict dress code!
Top Attractions:
📍 Ribeira District – The heart of Porto! Colourful houses, cobbled streets, riverside cafés and a buzzing atmosphere. Perfect for photos, people-watching, and sipping wine by the Douro River.
📍 Dom Luís I Bridge – This double-deck iron beauty offers stunning views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Walk across at sunset for a photo album-worthy experience!
📍 Livraria Lello – Book lover or not, this bookstore is straight out of a fairytale! It’s said to have inspired Harry Potter’s Hogwarts. Magical, but be prepared for crowds!
📍 Clérigos Tower – Conquer 240 steps for the best city views. Your legs might hate you, but your eyes will love the panoramic reward.
📍 São Bento Railway Station – Who knew a train station could be an attraction? The beautiful blue-and-white azulejo tiles tell Portugal’s history in the most artistic way.
📍 Bolsa Palace – This grand 19th-century palace is all about opulence. The Arab Room alone will make you wonder why your living room isn’t covered in gold.
📍 Port Wine Cellars (Vila Nova de Gaia) – You can’t come to Porto and NOT try Port wine! Cross the river, tour the cellars and enjoy a tasting (or three). Cockburn’s Port Lodge Tour and Tasting, GetYourGuide
Best Activities to Do in Porto:
Wine Tasting Tour –Join a full-day wine adventure from Porto! Sip through two wine regions, visit vineyards, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch, and cruise the Douro River—all with a glass of wine in hand! 2 Wine Regions, Private Boat & Chef’s Lunch, GetYourGuide
Douro River Cruise – Sail through Porto’s picturesque river and under its famous bridges. Relax and take in the stunning views. Douro River Boat Cruise with Port Wine Tasting, GetYourGuide
Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge – Cross one of the world’s longest suspension bridges, hike the stunning Paiva Walkways, explore Costa Nova and Aveiro, and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch—all on an unforgettable day trip from Porto! Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge, GetYourGuide
Ride Tram 1 to Foz do Douro – This charming old tram takes you along the river to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s slow but scenic—like a moving postcard.
Catch a Show at Casa da Música – Porto’s modern concert hall is an architectural gem, and the live performances are always top-notch.
Explore Mercado do Bolhão – This lively market is where you’ll find fresh seafood, local cheeses and vendors with more personality than you have ever seen before!
Relax at Matosinhos Beach – Just a short trip from Porto, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and eating some of Portugal’s best seafood.
Santiago de Compostela & Valença do Minho Day Trip – Hop from Porto to Spain on this fun day trip! Wander the stunning streets of Santiago de Compostela, explore its famous 11th-century cathedral, and soak up its pilgrim vibes. On the way back, stop in Valença do Minho, a historic Portuguese border town with an impressive fortress. Santiago de Compostela Full-Day Tour, GetYourGuide
Tuk-Tuk Tour of Porto – Zoom through Porto’s charming streets in a tuk-tuk, sipping Port wine while taking in breathtaking Douro River views. Choose daytime, sunset, or nighttime for a magical ride through this beautiful city. Less walking, more fun—just sit back, sip, and enjoy! Guided Tuk Tuk Tour, GetYourGuide
Helicopter Tour Over Porto – Take Porto sightseeing to new heights—literally! Soar over the Douro River, historic rooftops, and iconic bridges on an unforgettable helicopter ride. Capture breathtaking views and end your adventure with unbeatable memories. Helicopter Sightseeing Tour, GetYourGuide
Practical Tips:
Travel adapters – Portugal uses Type F sockets (European two-pin). Bring an adapter unless you enjoy staring at your out-of-charge devices!
Currency – They use the Euro (€). Cash is handy, but most places take cards—except that tiny café with the best coffee, you’ve been warned!
Transport – Trams, buses, and metro make getting around easy. But Porto’s streets? Be ready for some hills!
Best time to visit – Spring and autumn are perfect—fewer tourists, pleasant weather and no summer heatwave (unless that suits you!)
Port wine tip – Sweet or dry? Ask for a tasting flight before committing to a bottle (or five).
Wear comfy shoes – Porto’s streets are beautiful but uneven, pack accordingly.
Tipping culture – Not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated.
Photo tip – Ribeira and Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset = instant postcard material. No filter needed!
Porto Card – Unlock Porto with the money-saving Porto Card! Enjoy free transport, discounts at over 150 spots, plus entry to five museums and a half-price Port wine cellar visit. Easy sightseeing, big savings! Porto Card with Transportation, GetYourGuide
Porto is a city that charms you effortlessly—through its scenic streets, mouthwatering food, and (of course) fantastic wine. Whether you’re exploring medieval landmarks, cruising down the Douro, or just enjoying a slow riverside coffee, Porto is a place you won’t want to leave. So, when are you booking your trip?
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