Must-do activities
Porto is best enjoyed slowly: viewpoints, tiled churches, wine cellars across the river and sunsets over the Douro.
⭐ Must-sees
Ribeira and the Dom Luís I Bridge
Head down to the Ribeira quay and cross the bridge on the upper deck, on foot beside the metro: it's the most famous view in Porto. On the far side, the Serra do Pilar Monastery has the best viewpoint in the city.
São Bento Station
Its entrance hall is lined with some 20,000 tiles telling the story of Portugal. It still works as a railway station.
Livraria Lello
One of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, famous for its red wooden staircase. Honest note: J.K. Rowling has said she never visited it and that it did not inspire Harry Potter. Go first thing to beat the queue.
Clérigos Tower
Porto's baroque landmark. From the top you can see the whole city out to the sea. Open 9:00 to 19:00.
Port wine cellars (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Taylor's, Graham's, Sandeman, Ferreira, Cálem… Almost all offer a guided tour with tasting. Book ahead in high season.
Cathedral (Sé) and Capela das Almas
The Sé is a fortress-like cathedral on the city's oldest hill. Capela das Almas, on Santa Catarina, has its whole façade covered in blue tiles.
Six Bridges cruise
A trip on a traditional rabelo boat under the Douro's six bridges. Boarding in Gaia (€18) is a little cheaper than in Ribeira (€20).
💎 If you have more time
- Bolhão Market: the historic market, restored in 2022. Stalls of fruit, fish, tinned seafood and food to eat.
- Palácio da Bolsa: guided tour to see the Arab Room, surprisingly lavish.
- Serralves: contemporary art museum with a huge park and an art deco villa.
- Foz do Douro: take tram 1 and stroll along the sea to the Felgueiras lighthouse.
- Crystal Palace Gardens: peacocks and Douro views, free.
AI planner
Ready to plan your trip to Oporto?
Generate your custom itinerary in minutes.