Best things to do in Porto

I had only two days to visit Porto, which I split between strolling through the city and taking a trip to the surrounding area, where I explored local vineyards and the picturesque Douro Valley.  

Porto is a charming city that reminded me of the atmosphere of Český Krumlov, while the surrounding wine regions brought to mind the scenic beauty of South Moravia. Since the main landmarks and points of interest are concentrated in a relatively small area, the city can be comfortably explored in one to two days.  

Porto offers a unique blend of history, culture, and the charm of Portuguese traditions, making it an ideal destination even for a short trip.

Cais da Ribeira

Cais da Ribeira is a picturesque district in the historic center of Porto, located right by the Douro River. This vibrant area is known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and numerous traditional restaurants and cafés. Cais da Ribeira is the perfect place for a stroll, where you can enjoy views of the river, the Dom Luís I Bridge, and taste delicious Portuguese cuisine, including local specialties like francesinha. This district is also a popular starting point for boat cruises on the Douro River. Cais da Ribeira is one of the most photographed areas of Porto and should definitely be on every visitor's list when exploring this enchanting city.

I personally ended my first day in Porto here. I had a drink and enjoyed the amazing atmosphere. Cais da Ribeira is full of street performers playing various instruments. There are plenty of bars where they mix unique cocktails for you. On top of that, you get a stunning view of the Douro River and the Dom Luís I Bridge. Overall, the vibe here is very positive and lively.

Ponte de D. Luís

The Ponte de D. Luís is one of the most iconic bridges in Porto and one of the city's main attractions. This impressive iron bridge connects the historic center of Porto with the Vila Nova de Gaia district and spans the Douro River. It was built in the 19th century and its structure resembles the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The bridge has two levels: the upper one for pedestrians and trams, and the lower one for cars. From the bridge, there is a breathtaking view of the river, the cityscape, and the historic Ribeira district, making it a popular spot for photography and walks. The Ponte de D. Luís is not only an important transportation route but also a symbol of Porto.

It is located right next to Cais da Ribeira. You can cross the bridge to the other side.

Torre dos Clérigos

The Torre dos Clérigos is one of the most famous and distinctive landmarks in Porto. This baroque church bell tower, built in the 18th century, rises above the city and offers a stunning view of Porto and its surroundings. Climbing to the top of the tower, which stands 76 meters tall, reveals panoramic views of the city’s rooftops, the Douro River, and the historic center. The Torre dos Clérigos is not only an architectural gem but also a symbol of Porto's cityscape. In addition to visiting the tower itself, you can also explore the adjacent church, which is part of the complex. This location is ideal for those who want to experience Porto from a bird's-eye view.

Porto Cathedral (Se Catedral)

Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), also known as Sé Catedral, is one of the oldest and most important landmarks in Porto. Located on a hill in the historic center of the city, it offers not only fascinating architecture but also a beautiful view of the Douro River and the surrounding neighborhoods. The cathedral, which combines Romanesque and Gothic styles, was built in the 12th century and has undergone several renovations over time. Its impressive façade, richly decorated interior, and cloister attract visitors from all over the world. Sé do Porto is not only the spiritual center of the city but also an important historical and cultural site that should not be missed by anyone visiting Porto.

Bolsa Palace

Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) is a historic building in the heart of Porto, built in the 19th century as the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce. This neoclassical gem is known for its elegant architecture, richly decorated interiors, and impressive halls. The most admired is the Salão Árabe (Arabian Hall), which is inspired by Moorish style and is considered one of the most beautiful rooms in Portugal. The Stock Exchange Palace is located near the historic Ribeira district and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, Palácio da Bolsa is open to the public and offers tours that allow visitors to explore the history of commerce, culture, and political life in Porto.

Capela das Almas

Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls) is a picturesque chapel located in Porto, near the famous Rua de Santa Catarina street. This historic chapel is known for its stunning façade, which is covered in blue-and-white ceramic tiles (azulejos) depicting scenes from religious life, including significant moments related to pilgrimage and the salvation of souls. The chapel was built in the 18th century, and its interior is adorned with rich baroque details. Capela das Almas is an important spiritual and cultural site in the city, attracting visitors not only for its beauty but also for the peaceful atmosphere in the midst of Porto's bustling area.

Igreja do Carmo

Igreja do Carmo is a beautiful baroque church in the historic center of Porto, known for its impressive façade and richly decorated interior. The church was built in the 18th century and is one of the most significant examples of baroque architecture in the city. The exterior façade, adorned with delicate details, contrasts with the stunning interior, which is rich in altars, paintings, and statues. The church is also famous for its adjacent chapel, Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), which is covered in human bones and is one of the most unique and mysterious places in Porto. Igreja do Carmo is not only a spiritual center but also an important cultural monument that no visitor to Porto should miss.

Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens) are beautiful and expansive gardens in Porto, located near the Douro River. These historic gardens, originally part of a palace built in the 19th century, offer visitors stunning views of the city, the river, and the surrounding landscape. The gardens are known for their carefully manicured greenery, diverse flowerbeds, trees, and sculptures, making them an ideal place for walks, relaxation, or picnics. In addition to the beautiful setting, Jardins do Palácio de Cristal are also popular for cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. This park is a great retreat for those who want to enjoy peace and nature in the heart of the city.

In the gardens, you can also encounter peacocks. There are quite a lot of them here.

The gardens also offer a beautiful view of the river and the city.

Liberdade Square

Liberdade Square (Praça da Liberdade) is one of the most important and busiest squares in Porto, located in the very heart of the city. This spacious square is surrounded by elegant historic buildings and offers visitors beautiful views of the surrounding architecture. The centerpiece of the square is the statue of King Charles I, which stands in the middle, and the wide, tree-lined sidewalks that create a pleasant atmosphere for walks. Praça da Liberdade is also an important transport hub and a starting point for many of the city's attractions, including the nearby Market Palace and the popular Rua de Santa Catarina. The square is an ideal place for those who want to experience the lively atmosphere of Porto, admire the beauty of the cityscape, and enjoy both the historic and modern parts of the city.

Porto city hall

Porto City Hall (Câmara Municipal do Porto) is an impressive building in the heart of the city, serving as the headquarters of the municipal government. Located on Praça de Lisboa, it is one of Porto's most significant architectural gems. The building was constructed in the early 20th century in a neoclassical style and is known for its majestic façade, adorned with statues and symbols of the city's history. The most important feature is the 70-meter-high tower, which offers panoramic views of the entire city and its surroundings. Porto City Hall is not only the administrative center but also a popular tourist spot due to its imposing architecture and central location. Public events and festivals are often held in front of the building, making this place a lively hub of urban life.

If you're lucky, you might even get the chance to take a photo by the Porto sign!

Jardim das Olivieras

Jardim das Oliveiras (Olive Tree Garden) is a beautiful park in Porto, located near the famous Boavista district. This peaceful green space is ideal for relaxation, walks, or picnics, offering stunning views of the cityscape. As the name suggests, the garden is home to many olive trees, which are the park's main feature. In addition to these trees, you can also find various types of flowers and plants, creating a pleasant environment for visitors. Jardim das Oliveiras is the perfect spot for those seeking a quiet escape from the bustling city life and wanting to enjoy nature in the heart of Porto. This park is popular among both locals and tourists who want to enjoy moments of tranquility and the beauty of nature.

Nearby, there is also an ice cream shop right next to the Marques Soares store. I recommend stopping by. They have a large selection, clean restrooms, and a pleasant seating area.

Castelo do Queijo

Castelo do Queijo (Cheese Castle) is a historic fortress located on the coastline in Porto, near the beach. This impressive castle, built in the 17th century, was originally used to defend the city from naval attacks. Its name comes from the traditional term "Queijo," which means "cheese," due to the shape of the castle walls that resemble this popular Portuguese product. Castelo do Queijo is situated on a rocky outcrop and offers stunning views of the ocean and the cityscape. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can explore not only the historic fortress but also the surrounding beaches and modern harbor. The castle is an ideal spot for those who want to combine history, nature, and beautiful views of Porto's coastline.

I recommend getting here by public transport. Personally, I didn’t manage to visit as the castle is quite far from the city center.

Parque da Cidade

Parque da Cidade is the largest public park in Porto, covering more than 80 hectares and offering an ideal place for relaxation, walks, or picnics. This expansive park, located near Matosinhos beach, is crisscrossed with numerous green spaces, ponds, lakes, and forest trails, creating a peaceful oasis amidst urban life. Parque da Cidade is perfect for families, runners, and cyclists, and also provides space for various outdoor activities. The park is known for its rich flora and fauna, including many species of birds, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.

Mercado do Bolhão

Mercado do Bolhão is a historic market in the heart of Porto, known for its authentic atmosphere and wide range of fresh local products. This traditional market, open since the late 19th century, offers a variety of stalls with fresh fish, meat, fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and other Portuguese specialties. In addition to food, you can also find flowers, souvenirs, and regional products. Mercado do Bolhão is not only a popular shopping destination but also a cultural hub where visitors can enjoy the local atmosphere and interact with the local vendors. In 2020, the market underwent an extensive renovation, preserving its historic character while modernizing the spaces for the comfort of customers.

Mercado Bom Sucesso

Mercado Bom Sucesso is a modern market in Porto, located in the heart of the Boavista district. This revitalized market, originally built in 1952, combines traditional Portuguese market culture with modern design and offers a wide range of local and international products. At Mercado Bom Sucesso, you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, meat products, as well as various stalls with ready-to-eat meals, coffee, and specialties. The market is an ideal place for food lovers who want to taste traditional Portuguese delicacies or enjoy the atmosphere of a vibrant market. In addition, cultural events and various fairs are held here, making Mercado Bom Sucesso a popular spot for both tourists and locals.