Things to do in Porto

Astride the steep banks of the River Douro, Porto is a friendly and welcoming city. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene and a UNESCO-listed old town. Perhaps best of all, its gastronomy is also excellent, with a range of restaurants so great that you’ll want to come back. And the famous fortified wine, named after the city, should not go unmentioned. Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon, and is known as the ‘capital of the north’. Discover the best things to in Porto, from its hilltop cathedral to a train station with thousands of hand-painted tiles and from a magical bookshop to wineries of the Douro Valley.

Top six things to do in Porto

1. Explore the historic centre

The historic red-roofed Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to some beautiful sights and is easily explored on foot. Starting on the elegant Avenida dos Aliados, you walk towards the river, and you’ll come across São Bento train station. With its halls decorated with 2,000 blue-and-white tiles – known as ‘azulejos’ – this station is a work of art in itself and well worth a visit, even if you don’t have to use the train. Further in the historic part is the Porto Cathedral, or Sé do Porto. It’s one of the most important Romanesque monuments in Portugal, and its construction started in the 12th century. Another must is the Palácio da Bolsa, the former stock exchange. No expense was spared in its lavish interior decoration. And we recommend that you end your walk on the Cais da Ribeira promenade, where you can have a drink on one of the many terraces overlooking the river.

2. Climb the Torre dos Clérigos

Porto's skyline has been dominated by this tower since the mid-18th century. The Torre dos Clérigos is 76 metres high and after its completion was the highest church tower in Portugal. This baroque belfry can be seen from many places in the city and has become one of Porto’s most iconic landmark. However, it is not only a symbol of the city, but also from where you can admire the most beautiful 360° views of Porto and its surroundings. The 240 steps to the top are totally worth it.

3. Visit the magical Livraria Lello

Harry Potter fans and bookworms, take note. In Porto, you’ll find one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world. Livraria Lello, at 144 Rua das Carmelitas, is located opposite the university and a few steps from the Torre dos Clérigos. For starters, its neo-Gothic façade is already a looker, but inside you’ll be completely enchanted. Upon entering, your eye is immediately drawn to the red, wooden staircase with its beautiful balustrade. JK Rowling could well have found inspiration for the Hogwarts stairs here. Above it is a huge stained-glass window, and the ceiling is beautifully painted. A book from the Lello bookshop is the perfect souvenir.

4. Take a boat trip on the Douro

A must-do on a visit to Porto is a cruise on the Douro. The river, which originates in northern Castile, flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Porto and is the city’s most important artery. Hop on a boat and sail from the quays in the old town to Freixo and then downstream to the mouth of the river. You’ll pass under no fewer than six bridges, the most beautiful and impressive of which is the double-decker Ponte Luís I iron bridge.

5. Stroll through the gardens of the Palácio de Cristal

Although the Palácio de Cristal, built for the 1865 World’s Fair, no longer exists and opinions are divided over its replacement, the Rosa Mota Pavilion, the beautifully landscaped gardens of the old palace are still a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. The romantic gardens are full of symmetrical flower beds and are home to authentic fountains and sculptures. It’s a lovely place to stroll around and enjoy some greenery while admiring the river and ocean views. A little further on in the Massarelos district, you’ll also find the Tramcar Museum, a historic depot with a collection of Porto trams from days past – perfect to combine with a visit to the gardens.

6. Go on an excursion to the Douro Valley

The Upper Douro Valley is just a small section of the 897km-long River Douro but its man-moulded landscapes are so spectacular that is been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The heartland of Douro wine region is one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world and its winemaking tradition goes back more than 2,000 years. You can admire the vineyards by train, car or from the water – the terraced banks of vines near Vila Real and Tabuaço are picture-oerfect. And on top of the beautiful surroundings, you also come to taste the wine. You can do this in Vilanova de Gaia, on the south bank, opposite Porto. The Real Companhia Velha is one of the oldest wineries in Portugal and the perfect place to learn about and taste port wine.