Porto isn’t just Portugal’s second largest city. It’s where ancient cobblestones straight-up collide with indie coffee spots and graffiti that practically screams for attention. Planning a trip? Buckle up.
This place is loaded with swoon-worthy views, food that’ll totally amaze you, and experiences you’ll humblebrag about for years. So, here’s our hit list of the 10 things to do in Porto each one dripping with quirky energy and that whole ancient soul with a modern feel.
1. Marvel at the Ribeira District
Kick things off in Porto’s Ribeira district, the oldest part of the city with all the character and crumbling charm. This place? Absolutely dripping with history. Stroll down Cais de Ribeira and you’ll get hit with buildings painted in every wild color you can dream up, plus bars just kind of exploding out onto the pavement. Just plop yourself down at any café by the water, pick something off the menu, and let the whole scene wash over you.
2. Walk the Dom Luís I Bridge
Let’s be real if you’re looking for the best things to do in Porto and somehow skip the Dom Luís I Bridge, did you actually go? Seriously, that bridge is like Porto’s spirit. Seriously, just walk across it. Doesn’t matter if you’re scared of heights, the views are worth sweaty palms. The river, the terracotta rooftops, the whole city just kind of glows, especially if you time it for sunset.
3. Visit Livraria Lello
Alright if you’re even a little bit of a book nerd or just admire old buildings, skipping Livraria Lello in Porto is seriously a crime. You can experience a neo-Gothic vibe on the outside, it’s like walking up to a castle for nerds and the stained glass ceiling and that spiraling, show-off staircase just completes the look.
People say J.K. Rowling got some Harry Potter inspo here. Honestly, after seeing it, you’ll get why. Even if you don’t buy a book, just soaking up the atmosphere is enough to make any bookworm lose their mind.
4. Tour Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
Imagine you’re on a hill, looking out over Porto, and then there’s the Sé do Porto, and it looks as though three centuries have arrived simultaneously. It’s Romanesque in nature, and then you’ll see a Gothic window that looks extraterrestrial.
The interior? It’s stunning & incredible, truly. And don’t even ask about visiting the cloister outlook. It’s literally one of the best things to do in Porto.
5. Climb the Clérigos Tower
Wanna see Porto from above? Drag yourself up the Torre dos Clérigos yeah, it’s 225 steps, so good luck to your calves. Seriously though, the top? Absolutely amazing view.
The tower itself? Straight-up baroque details, totally unmissable. If you’re making a Porto bucket list, this is one of the best things to do in Porto.
6. Explore the São Bento Railway Station
Look, even if you’re not coming to Porto by train, you have to swing by São Bento station. The place is basically an art gallery disguised as public transport, with more than 20,000 blue-and-white azulejos all over the walls, telling wild stories of Portuguese history and culture.
7. Taste Port Wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
Visit a crossing of the Douro to spend an afternoon in the famous port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. Exploring with an appetite in tow uncovers the country’s most celebrated export and is an archetypal Porto experience. Discover the history and making of the wine, then indulge the rich, sweet taste that has made port wine globally famous.
8. Discover the Church of São Francisco
This sensational Gothic church contains Portugal’s most elaborate Baroque interior, with gilded wood, opulent art, and drama. Everyone who appreciates religious architecture and art must see it. The maze of golden carvings inside the church is stunning when placed in front of the plain facade of the church, which makes it an eye feast.
9. Visit the Serralves Museum and Park
Art enthusiasts must take a trip to Serralves, an internationally acclaimed modern art museum with beautiful gardens and parkland to its environment. Appreciate cutting-edge exhibitions and peaceful outdoor areas, like the elegant Art Deco villa. A visit is invigorating and soothing one of the best things to do in US.
10. Relax by the Atlantic in Foz do Douro
Forget the city noise just bail. Head for Foz do Douro, where the Atlantic basically punches the stress right out of you. Trust me, there’s nothing like wandering those salty paths, sand stuck between your toes, maybe sneaking in a tiny espresso or demolishing fresh seafood that probably had its morning swim right before landing on your plate.
Whether you’re obsessed with crumbling ruins, on a sugar rampage for the city’s best pastel de nata, or you’re that person who actually reads every sign in the museum, Porto’s got your back. Try ticking off these top 10 things to do in Porto, and you’ll see what we mean.
