23+ Essential Porto Tips for Visiting

Visiting Porto? Benefit from my extensive research and personal experiences, as this post unveils over 23 vital Porto tips for travellers. From delving into Porto’s rich history and distinctive food culture to navigating its transportation, this guide furnishes you with the essential knowledge you need to experience the real Porto, including insider tips and exciting day trip ideas to enrich your journey

23 Porto tips and things to know before visiting

1 There’s more to Porto than what you see on Instagram

While the picturesque Ribeira district and the iconic Port wine cellars are certainly popular draws for visitors to Porto, there is much more to this charming city than what meets the eye on social media alone.

For a start, if you are dreaming of capturing the perfect snap on the staircase at Livrario Lello having seen it on the feeds of countless influencers…you can think again! This popular and over-touristed location is undoubtedly beautiful, but is not how it appears social media.

It’s not all bad news, however, as when one ventures beyond the picturesque facades and photogenic vistas that have come to define Porto in the digital age, you are to be rewarded with a city steeped in complexity, rich in history, and pulsing with life.

From its buzzing street food markets and vibrant music scene, to its world-class museums and historical landmarks, Porto offers something for every intrepid explorer.

To dismiss Porto as merely a backdrop for one’s Instagram feed is to miss the very essence of what makes the city so beguiling.

From the narrow alleyways where time seems to stand still, to the bustling squares where locals gather to chat and sip on the famous port wine, Porto is a city that is truly worthy of a deeper exploration.

By exploring beyond the obvious attractions, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city, and create more meaningful and memorable experiences during their visit.

2 Porto has a rich history and cultural heritage

Porto is a city steeped in history and cultural heritage, dating back even earlier than Roman times.

You will be transported back in time as you stroll through the narrow, winding streets and discover architectural gems such as the ornate Clérigos Tower and the baroque style São Francisco Church.

Interestingly, one of its most popular architectural attractions is its Stock Exchange Palace, which is an elaborate neoclassical building built to a very large, ornate scale. 

The city also boasts numerous museums, including the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art, and the Soares dos Reis National Museum, which showcases Portuguese art from the 17th to the 20th centuries.

In addition to its historical and cultural heritage, Porto also has a rich musical heritage, with a thriving classical music scene and a tradition of Fado music, which is a style of music that originated in Lisbon and is characterised by its melancholic and soulful melodies.

Porto also has a rich literary heritage, with many great writers having called the city their home. Visitors to Porto can explore the city’s literary legacy through its many bookshops, including the historic Lello bookstore (if you don’t mind the crowds).

There are, however, many independent bookshops dotted around the city, that entice bookworms over their thresholds with their charming window displays. 

READ NEXT | Best of Porto in 3 Days: from Historic Sites to Delicious Cuisine

3 Porto is known for its world-famous wine…

Porto is the birthplace of Port wine and is home to numerous port lodges, where you will be able to indulge in tastings of this world-famous fortified wine.

Each lodge offers a unique and atmospheric experience, providing a window into the world of Port wine production and a chance to sample a range of vintages and learn about the unique winemaking techniques that make Port wine so special. 

To be honest, I never really drank port wine before my visit to Porto – it was something I associated with my father, and specifically at Christmas time – but upon learning how it was produced and trying a variety of them I developed a newfound appreciation for the art of port production, as well as a bit of a taste for it.

By the end of my time in Porto and the Douro Valley, I was happily sipping on LBV (that’s ‘Late Bottled Vintage’) after meals. Just watch your consumption as it goes down rather easily, but at 20% alcohol content it’s quite a bit stronger than your regular red or white wine. 

In addition to its world-famous port wine, Porto also offers a range of other delicious wines, including Douro wines, which are made from the grapes grown in the Douro region, and Vinho Verde, a light and crisp white wine produced in the far north-west of the country that is popular both in Portugal and abroad. 

Wine lovers will be in their element in Porto (as was this one!), with its rich winemaking history and its diverse range of wineries and tasting rooms.

4 …and you should make some time to visit a port wine cellar

Indulging in the rich history and exceptional flavours of Port wine is an integral part of any visit to Porto. The picturesque city of Vila Nova de Gaia, located just across the Douro River from Porto, is the heart of the Port wine industry and a must-visit destination for wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

The historic port lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia offer a window into the world of Port wine, where you can experience the art of winemaking and sample the finest vintages in charming, atmospheric tasting rooms.

Many of the lodges offer guided tours, allowing visitors to delve into the rich history of Port wine production and learn about the unique production techniques that make it one of the world’s most celebrated fortified wines. 

The tastings themselves are an immersive experience, offering a chance to sample a range of Port wines, each with its own unique flavour profile and rich history. Visits are generally quite inexpensive too, unless you’re tasting some of the more premium bottles.

I’d recommend doing some research on port cellars in advance, and perhaps making some reservations too – particularly if you’re visiting during the busier summer months and/or at weekends. 

In addition to the tastings, many of the port lodges offer breathtaking views of Porto and the Douro River, making them the perfect place to enjoy a drink or a snack while taking in the sights.

FIND & BOOK A PORT CELLAR EXPERIENCE | Search for Port wine experiences in Porto here.

5 Prepare yourself for the hills

Porto’s terrain is characterised by its hilly landscape, with elevation reaching up to 100 meters above sea level in some areas.

While this creates Porto’s distinct, charming tapestry of buildings, you should expect to encounter steep inclines and declines throughout your travels in the city. With that too, the cobbled streets and alleyways can be uneven, so I’d recommended that you wear suitable footwear.

My go-to city sightseeing shoes are these ON Roger Federer trainers – I can comfortably walk for hours in them and would be lost without them!

Additionally, some paths and routes suggested by navigation tools like Google Maps may lead you up steep staircases, so it’s important to be mentally prepared (as well as physically capable) for the challenge.

For that reason, too, I’d advise to factor in the extra time it may take to navigate the hilly terrain when planning your itinerary 

Despite the hills, however, the breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River make any huffing and puffing well worth it.

6 Take the cable car for alternative views

The Gaia Cable Car in Porto, a soaring ride suspended high above the city’s terracotta-tiled roofs and winding streets on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river, provides a breathtaking vantage point of the city below.

A journey along its gently undulating cable takes one high into the sky, offering a panoramic view of the city’s historic buildings, lush gardens, and shimmering River Douro.

Opening in 2011, this marvel of engineering spans a short distance of 600m and ascends to a height of 63 metres at its highest point. Its gondolas, gently rocking in the breeze, provide a serene, bird’s eye view of Porto, with its tangle of narrow alleyways and grand boulevards.

You’ll find the station close to where the upper level of the Dom Luis I bridge meets the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the city, close to the Jardim do Morro.

On a price to distance ratio, it’s not the cheapest, but it presents a novel opportunity to contemplate the river’s serpentine curves, the impressive bridges that spans its width and the patchwork of rooftops that pan out below. Tickets cost €6 one way, or €9 return. The journey lasts for around 5 minutes. 

READ NEXT | Discovering the Best of Porto in One Day

7 Porto comes with hipster appeal

Porto is a city that has undergone a revitalisation in recent years, and now offers a trend, hipster side that is somewhat akin to Lisbon. There are numerous cafes that specialise in speciality coffee, serving up artisanal blends and expertly crafted flat whites.

Brunch spots are abundant, offering up menu items that are both delicious and visually stunning, using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Cool and contemporary restaurants serve up modern dishes with a focus on fresh, local produce, and innovative cooking techniques.

And finally, there are unique stores and boutiques that offer up everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing and home decor items, perfect for those looking to take a little piece of Porto home with them.

Overall, Porto is a city that’s bursting with creativity, and there’s always something new to discover in its hip and trendy neighbourhoods.

In terms of ‘hipster areas’ and where you might seek out the biggest concentration of independent coffee shops, trendy cafes, and creative boutiques, head to Cedofeita – but you’ll also find a good smattering of them in the more touristic spots of Cordoaria and Ribeira. 

8 Consider getting a Porto Card if you plan on lots of sightseeing

If you’re planning on taking full advantage of everything that Porto has to offer, and plan on doing lots of sightseeing to attractions that involve an entrance fee, then investing in a Porto Card could be an excellent decision.

Depending on what you purchase, not only can it provide you with unlimited access to public transportation, including buses, trams, and metro lines, but it also grants discounts or even free entry to a variety of museums, monuments, and attractions.

It can also be be customised to fit your specific travel itinerary to give you the flexibility to see and do what you want, when you want. 

It may also, however, be overkill. Unlike many other cities I go to, I felt less inclined to rush around to museums and the like in Porto, as the city itself is so incredibly beautiful and the atmosphere alone is enough to pass the time basking in.

If you plan on visiting a couple of things like the Bolsa Palace and Clérigos Tower (which I recommend) and to get around primarily on foot, then you may not require it – we didn’t. 

PORTO CARD | See all options and prices for the Porto Card here.

9 Porto comes with (somewhat misplaced) connections to Harry Potter

Porto is often associated with JK Rowling and the Harry Potter series due to her time spent living in the city in the 1990s.

While it is widely believed that the Livraria Lello bookstore in Porto served as inspiration for the Hogwarts Library in the Harry Potter books, JK Rowling has stated (very clearly) that this is not the case. She did, however, spend some of her time in Porto writing parts of the series in Café Majestic.

While Porto may not have directly influenced the Harry Potter books, JK Rowling has spoken fondly of her time spent in the city and how it has influenced her life and writing in other ways. Regardless of the connection to the Harry Potter series – or not – Porto is well worth a visit in its own right. 

10 Porto’s Celtic roots and how it came to be named

The Celts were among the first people to settle in the area that is now Porto. They established settlements along the banks of the Douro River, which provided a rich source of food and water.

The Celts were known for their artistic and technological skills, and they left a lasting impact on the region through their pottery, metalwork, and other crafts.

By the 1st century BC, the city was an important location on the main trade route between Lisbon and the town of Braga. When the Romans came to town, they added a port and called the city “Portus Cale,” which was the basis of the name “Porto” that the city now has today.

Portus Cale was an important trading hub that connected the rest of the Roman Empire to the Atlantic Ocean and the city was also a centre for shipbuilding and commerce, becoming renowned for its wealth and prosperity. 

The Romans brought with them a rich cultural heritage, and many of their traditions and customs saw themselves woven into the fabric of the area.

Despite the challenges posed by wars and invasions over the centuries, Porto has continued to thrive and remains one of the most important cities in Portugal as the country’s second largest city. 

11 Porto played an important role in the Portuguese Age of Discovery

Porto played a pivotal role during the Portuguese Age of Discovery, serving as a launchpad for many expeditions. During the 15th and 16th centuries, Porto was a hub of activity, as sailors, merchants, and adventurers flocked to the city in search of wealth and adventure. 

Prince Henry the Navigator sailed from Porto in 1415, initiating the Portuguese Age of Discovery and fighting at the Battle of Ceuta to capture its strategic port.

The residents of Porto made significant sacrifices by offering all their high-grade meat to those departing for Ceuta and reserving only tripe for themselves — hence they are known as “tripeiros”. This characteristic ingredient is found in today’s traditional dish, “Tripas à moda do Porto”.

At the heart of this activity was the Ribeira district, which hugged the banks of the Douro River and was home to the city’s most important buildings, markets and warehouses.

The Ribeira was a place of constant motion, as merchants traded goods, sailors made preparations for their voyages, and locals went about their daily business.

Even today, it’s easy to imagine how the air would have been thick with the sound of creaking ropes, clanging anchors and the shouted orders of captains and crew.

If you want to learn more about the role Portugal played in the Age of Discoveries, you can visit the the World of Discoveries interactive experience while visiting Porto

12 Stay in an apartment for a more local feel

Staying in an apartment, rather than a hotel, provides a more immersive experience in a city, especially in a place with as much character and history as Porto.

It’s the type of place that lends itself best to being immersed in local neighbourhoods to get a true feel for the city and its pulse and to be placed at the heart of the city’s storied past. 

In Porto, the historic neighbourhoods are particularly charming and renting an apartment in the Ribeira or Miragaia districts, for example, provides a chance to live in a traditional Portuguese home while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Douro River.

Many of the apartments in these areas offer a unique mix of antique and contemporary décor, providing visitors with the best of both worlds and a unique ambience and accommodation option. 

For our time in Porto, we decided to ditch the confines of a hotel room and embrace the local way of life in Miragaia, a hilly, authentic neighbourhood full of colourful buildings that are set just to the west of Porto’s touristic Ribeira district.

Yet within walking distance of Porto’s main attractions. I stayed at this gorgeous Plum Guide apartment (read my full Plum Guide review here), which was a tranquil refuge in a buzz-filled city.

The Douro river is such a focal point of Porto that I wanted to make sure that it was an important element during our time in the city – and this I ensured by booking an apartment with river views.

RELATED READING | To discover all our recommended Porto accommodation, check out this post.

RELATED READING | Where to Stay in Porto: Unveiling the Best Areas and Accommodations

13 Porto has its own distinct cuisine

Porto is renowned for its hearty and delicious cuisine, which features a variety of traditional dishes made using fresh, local ingredients that draw on the city’s rich history and cultural influences.

A traditional meal might include caldo verde, a potato and kale soup, or tripas à moda do Porto, a tripe stew with white beans and various meats. Seafood is a staple, with grilled sardines and salt cod dishes like bacalhau à Gomes de Sá also highly popular.

If you’re particularly hungry (and have a rock-iron stomach) try the local specialty, francesinha, a hearty sandwich stuffed with various meats and covered in a spicy sauce.

Modern restaurants have also emerged in Porto, mixing traditional dishes with contemporary techniques and ingredients. The Ribeira and Foz neighborhoods offer an abundance of seafood-focused restaurants, while the Cedofeita and Baixa areas are home to trendy eateries featuring fusion cuisine and small plates.

Regardless of where you choose to dine, the food in Porto is sure to be a highlight of your trip, and is best enjoyed with a glass of local wine – port or otherwise.

The city also has a thriving coffee culture, with numerous coffee shops and cafes offering a range of specialty coffee drinks and baked goods, providing the perfect opportunity for visitors to relax, unwind, and people-watch.

In addition to its delicious cuisine, Porto also offers a range of dining experiences, from casual street food stalls to upscale restaurants, and visitors can choose from a range of dining options that suit their taste and budget.

14 The people of Porto and friendly and welcoming

As someone who travels a lot, I must say that the people of Porto stand out as some of the friendliest and most welcoming you are likely to encounter in a city. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how laid back, friendly and accommodating the locals are.

Whether in a cozy neighbourhood café, a bustling market, or a sophisticated wine bar, I think it’s safe to say you can expect a warm welcome and friendly conversation. 

While I am always one to promote learning and using a few words of the local language, a large proportion of Porto residents I encountered spoke superb English, particularly younger people, which rendered my weak ‘orbrigados‘ particularly useless!

My failures at Portuguese aside, whoever, It did make it very easy to strike up a conversation with locals and get recommendations for the best places to eat, drink, and explore in the city.

From the locals who run small shops and cafes to servers and tour guides, visitors will feel at home in Porto and will find that the city’s people play a large role in making their visit an unforgettable experience. 

15 Porto is a city made for sunsets

As the day draws to a close and the sun begins to descend towards the horizon, Porto transforms into a magical place, where the warm golden light bathes everything in its glow. The city’s many miradouros, or viewpoints, offer the perfect vantage points to watch the sunset in all its glory.

The most famous is the Miradouro da Vitória, which offers panoramic views of the Douro River, the bustling Ribeira district, and the city’s historic centre. As the light softens, the rooftops and colourful buildings take on a surreal quality, as if they are part of a dreamy painting.

But it’s not just about the views – the sunset is an event in itself. Lively crowds gather at the viewpoints, mingling and enjoying the relaxed ambience, sipping on a glass of wine or a cold beer and soaking in the beauty of the moment.

And as the sun finally dips below the horizon, the city’s landmarks, such as the Clérigos Tower and the Sé Cathedral, are silhouetted against the last light of the day. It’s a moment of pure enchantment and one that should not be missed.

Whether you are watching the sunset from a rooftop bar, a viewpoint, or a quiet street corner, the experience is one that you shouldn’t miss out on.

To that end, I would highly recommend planning at least one of your days around the sunset – check what time it’s at, choose your spot and make sure to be there a good 30-40 minutes before the sun is due to set. 

16 Porto has its own distinctive architecture

The architecture of Porto is a magnificent display of form and colour that paints a vivid picture of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The historic streets of Ribeira are alive with the vibrancy of its colourful homes and twisting alleyways, while the grand boulevards of the city centre evoke a sense of grandeur and are a nod to its boom years in centuries past.

At the heart of Ribeira stands a treasure trove of architectural delights, where buildings boast intricately detailed façades and wooden balconies, many adorned with traditional ceramic tiles.

Cafes, restaurants, and shops nestle comfortably among the homes, lending the district a cosy, bohemian atmosphere.

In the city centre, landmarks of architectural splendour abound, such as the towering Clérigos Tower, its baroque silhouette rising high above the cityscape, offering breathtaking views from its peak.

And there’s the São Francisco Church, a Gothic masterpiece that is widely considered one of the most beautiful in all of Portugal.

Beyond the city centre, Porto’s diverse neighbourhoods are dotted with architectural styles that range from Art Deco and Art Nouveau to Modernist.

From the sophisticated villas of Foz do Douro to the sleek, contemporary buildings of Boavista, each neighbourhood offers a unique perspective on architecture. 

The Serralves Museum and House of Music are two examples of Porto’s contemporary architecture at its best. Designed by two world-renowned architects, the museum and the music hall are located in the western part of the city.

The Serralves Museum is a stunning example of modern architecture, with a minimalist and clean design that perfectly harmonises with the surrounding gardens.

The House of Music is an impressive building that serves as a cultural landmark and performance space. The structure has a distinctive shape, with white concrete walls and a large curving roof that creates a sense of openness and fluidity.

17 Be prepared to see lots of derelict buildings

One unfortunate thing that you will need to prepare yourself to seeing is a huge number of derelict buildings in and around Porto city centre. In recent years, it has been reported that as many as 20%, or 1 in 5 of the buildings in Porto are abandoned.

While these crumbling edifices do lend Porto a certain character, many of these dilapidated buildings sit between those that are occupied, so from a structural integrity perspective it’s not exactly great. 

Porto has a large number of derelict buildings due to several factors.

Rent control in Portugal has existed since the start of the 20th century, however this artificial rate has caused landlords an ever-increasing diminishment in returns.

The tenancy laws essentially rendered landlords powerless to evict tenants who failed to make payments, while decades of inflation resulted in tenants having to pay very little rent.

This enabled older people to remain living in city limits, while a period of great construction in the suburbs saw increased rental property outside city limits that was readily taken up by younger couples.

With rent yields so low, it also meant that it would likely cost landlords more money than they collected rent to make any sort of repairs or to perform maintenance on a property and so, it resulted in many buildings falling into disrepair. 

Furthermore, when a landlord died it could take many years for probate court to settle their estate, or even for there to be any consensus amongst surviving family members when it came to selling buildings – which frequently resulted in yet more abandoned buildings. 

It does seem, however, that Porto is starting to crawl its way out of this problem.

Similar to the ‘Lisbon effect’ in the past decade, a boom in tourism has resulted in a greater demand for accommodation, which as resulted in many of these buildings in Porto finally getting the care they need and being renovated and repurposed to answer the demands of tourism.  

18 Porto is very easy to get around

Porto is a compact city and it is easy to get around by foot, especially in the historical centre. However, should you require it at any stage, then the public transportation system is well-developed and affordable.

The city’s public transport network is extensive, with a metro system that runs throughout the city. Porto’s metro system consists of four lines that cover most of the city and its suburbs.

The metro is fast, efficient, and runs frequently, making it a convenient way to get around. Should you have a desire to leave Porto, it is linked to regional stations via Sao Bento station, and to Lisbon via Campanha Train Station. 

The city also has a well-developed bus network that connects all the major attractions and neighbourhoods. The buses are air-conditioned and run frequently, making them a convenient option if that’s how you prefer to make your way around a city. 

The tram is a historic and charming mode of transportation in Porto, and there are several lines that run through the city, including the famous electric tram line 1 which runs along a very scenic line along the Douro riverfront.

Bicycles are also a popular way to explore the city, with bike rental services available throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available and I found these to be affordable, particular ride-sharing apps like Bolt. 

19 Porto airport is well connected to the city centre

Getting from Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport to the city centre is a simple and straightforward process, with several transportation options available.

The best ways to get to Porto city centre from the airport

The Metro is the quickest and most affordable option, with frequent service to the city centre and a travel time of 30-40 minutes, depending on your final destination.

There’s a direct metro route from Porto Airport to Porto city centre (Trindade Station). You can reach the metro station walking 5 min from the arrivals terminal and it runs every 20 minutes, starting at 6am and running through to a little after midnight. 

Tickets are a very reasonable €2, but if you’re planning on using public transport more than once while in Porto then it’s a good idea to purchase an Andante card for an additional €0.60 at this point and to purchase some additional journeys (which are loaded onto your card) at this point. 

Taxis are available outside the terminal building and can take around 20 minutes to reach the city centre. It cost us €25 to reach Miragaia. For more budget-friendly options, rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are available. We found Bolt to offer great value while travelling in Portugal.

Other ways to get from Porto Airport to Porto city centre

Bus services are also available from the airport, connecting it to different parts of the city. While equal in price to the metro, it’s also slower and less comfortable too so in most instances it will likely be better for you to take the metro instead.

Rental car companies are also available for those looking for convenience. If one plans on staying in Porto, there’s no need for a rental car; however, day trips to Douro Valley can be made easier by renting a car from downtown locations.

Porto has plenty of international car rental companies operating on the airport site for those seeking a rental vehicle. However, if one’s plan does not involve straying from Porto, there is no need for hire a car.

An alternative for excursions to the Douro Valley would be to rent a vehicle from a downtown car rental agency for just a couple of days – we did this from Sixt via Rentalcars from their Boavista agency for a few days, which worked perfectly for us. 

20 Porto is located in an area of natural beauty

Porto is situated on the banks of the Douro River and is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and the Atlantic Ocean, offering a breathtaking natural landscape that provides a stunning backdrop for the city.

Visitors can take in the stunning views from one of the many viewpoints around the city, such as Miradouro da Vitoria or Miradouro da Serra do Pilar, and marvel at the splendour of this unique and captivating region.

The Douro River itself is also a major draw for visitors, offering opportunities for river cruises, kayaking, and fishing and providing a stunning backdrop for the city’s many outdoor events and festivals.

The surrounding hills and vineyards are also a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, and bird-watching, and providing a unique and beautiful landscape for visitors to explore and enjoy.

With all this in mind, it’s very easy to elongate a city break to include more active or outdoor adventures that take advantage of Porto’s sublime surroundings. 

21 It’s easy to reach the Douro Valley from Porto

Embarking on a journey to the picturesque Douro Valley from Porto is a must for all travellers seeking a breathtaking escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

A mere hour’s drive from Porto, the valley is renowned for its rolling vineyards and terraced hills, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush natural beauty of the region. Also, if you are a wine-lover, I would say that a visit is essential while you are visiting Porto!

RELATED READING | First-time Visitors Guide to the Douro Valley

There are several ways to reach the Douro Valley from Porto, including car rental, guided tours, and public transportation. The most popular option is to take a train from Porto to the town of Régua, which is the starting point for many Douro Valley tours.

From there, you can join a guided tour or rent a car and explore the region at your own pace.

For those looking to truly capture the essence of the valley, a boat tour along the serpentine Douro River is an exceptional option. Gliding past the undulating landscape and its sprawling vineyards, the journey offers a stunning bird’s eye view of the valley, showcasing its picturesque charm in all its glory.

As you make your way down the river, the scenery only becomes more captivating. The river winds its way through the valley, dotted with traditional wine estates and charming villages that harken back to a bygone era.

The vineyards themselves are a sight to behold, their lush green slopes cascading down to meet the river’s edge.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply seeking a scenic getaway, the Douro Valley is the perfect day trip from Porto. 

22 It’s easy visit the beach from Porto

The city of Porto lies on the Atlantic coast and is situated near some of the most serene and picturesque beaches in Portugal. From the lively and bustling streets of Porto, one can easily travel just a short distance to find themselves enveloped in the tranquility of the ocean’s embrace.

One of the closest and most beloved beaches is Matosinhos, just a mere 8 kilometers away.

With its extensive sandy shoreline and gently lapping waves, it provides a perfect respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Foz do Douro, similarly nearby, is easily reached from Porto and is characterised by small beaches split by rocky outcrops and headlands. 

Further afield, the beaches of Espinho and Costa Nova are but a mere 35-45 minutes drive away, and offer a glimpse into Portugal’s coastal heritage. The former, with its idyllic fishing village and traditional seafood restaurants, offers a taste of authentic Portuguese life.

The latter, with its colourful wooden huts and vibrant beach culture, provides a glimpse into the lively energy of Portugal’s coast.

23 It’s a cinch to travel between Porto and Lisbon

Travelling between Porto and Lisbon by train is a convenient and comfortable way to make the journey between the two cities.

The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and runs regularly, with several trains departing each day from Porto’s Campanhã station and arriving at Lisbon’s Oriente station.

The cost of a one-way ticket depends on the type of train you choose. The high-speed Alfa Pendular trains are the quickest and most comfortable option, but also the most expensive.

I thought it was worth paying that bit extra to travel in first class – we paid €45 per person for the journey, buying our tickets on Omio and both the journey and carriage were an absolute pleasure.

Second class, however, is also perfectly comfortable. Alternatively, you can opt for the slower Intercidades trains for a more budget-friendly option.

Trains run frequently, with services available every hour. It’s recommended to book your ticket in advance, particularly during peak travel times, to secure your seat and avoid disappointment.

With its comfortable seats, scenic views, and reliable service, I found taking the train to be a great option for any traveller who is looking to explore both Porto and Lisbon. 

PORTO TO LISBON TRAIN | Search schedules and book train tickets here

FAQ – tips for Porto in relation to common questions before visiting

How many days are enough for Porto

I would say that the number of days required for a visit to Porto is subjective and depends on your own personal preferences and travel style. However, I do think it would be sufficient to spend 3 to 4 days exploring the city and surrounding areas.

With 3 days, you can comfortably cover the main highlights of Porto and still have time for leisurely strolls. An additional day or two will allow you to delve deeper into the city’s culture and history, or visit nearby attractions such as the Douro Valley.

If you’re not planning on heavy sightseeing or a trip to the Douro Valley, Porto is also a destination that is suitable for a 2-night city break – provided you understand that you won’t be able to cover everything you might wish to.

Similarly, due to its compact size you can still discover much of Porto in one day – on a stroll around the city alone, you’ll be able to see much of the beautiful city centre and be able to do one (or potentially more) of the following: climb Clérigos Tower, go on a six bridges river cruise, visit a Port wine cellar or tour Bolsa Palace. 

Is Porto a walkable city

Yes, Porto is a very walkable city with plenty to explore on foot. The city’s compact size and charming narrow streets make it easy to navigate and discover hidden gems at every turn.

The historic centre, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be easily explored on foot, taking in landmarks such as the Clérigos Tower, the Cathedral, and the Ribeira district.

However, if walking isn’t your preferred mode of transportation, there are also plenty of other options available. The city’s metro system is reliable, clean, and affordable, making it a great way to travel further afield, such as to the beach at Matosinhos.

Additionally, there are numerous bus routes and even the option of a vintage tram ride through the city’s historic centre. Whether on foot or by public transport, there’s no shortage of ways to explore all that Porto has to offer.

What is the best month to visit Porto

When it comes to choosing the ideal time to visit Porto, you’ll need to consider several factors such as weather, crowds, and seasonal events.

Although the summer months of May to September are the peak tourist season in Porto, the best time to visit is arguably during the shoulder months of April, October, and November.

During these months, the weather is still warm and pleasant, the crowds are lighter, and visitors can savour a true taste of Porto without the sweltering heat and congested crowds.

During the shoulder months, Porto offers a chance to stroll the narrow streets of Ribeira, savour the fresh seafood in the local taverns, and take in the breathtaking beauty of the Douro River without the throngs of tourists.

I have, however, visited Porto in the winter months, and found it to be very charming, in a misty, damp, but altogether cosy way. If you’re a fan of off-season travel, there are some excellent bargains to be found amongst Porto’s excellent accommodation offerings.

Is Porto nicer than Lisbon

When it comes to choosing between Porto and Lisbon, there is no simple answer. Both cities have their unique charms, which are deeply intertwined with their history, culture, and local traditions.

Lisbon, with its vibrant energy, hilly streets, and diverse neighbourhoods, offers a sprawling and cosmopolitan atmosphere that is hard to resist.

Meanwhile, Porto, with its cobbled alleyways, red-roofed buildings, and Douro River, presents a charming and captivating old-world atmosphere that invites visitors to explore its winding streets and indulge in its culinary and cultural delights.

In the end, the answer to whether Porto is nicer than Lisbon depends on what one values in a city. For those seeking a sophisticated and cultured ambience, the narrow streets and grand architecture of Porto may hold a certain allure.

For those seeking a more vibrant and bustling energy, Lisbon with its lively cafes and energetic vibe, might be the perfect fit.

Personally, during my most recent visit to Portugal in January 2023, I enjoyed my time in Porto more. I’ve found that Lisbon has gotten more expensive, and busier, since my last visit a few years ago.

Digital nomads have been drawn to Lisbon in recent years and I found there to be much more of an international vibe in Lisbon – not that that is a bad thing, but I feel like I encountered more tourists/non-Lisboans during my time there than I did Portuguese people. 

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preferences and what one is looking for in a city experience, however. So whether you are drawn to the historic charm of Porto or the cosmopolitan buzz of Lisbon, both cities offer a unique and unforgettable journey that is worth exploring.

What is Porto best known for

Porto, is a vibrant coastal city in northwest Portugal and is best known for its rich history, picturesque architecture, and its iconic port wine heritage.

From the lively Ribeira neighbourhood to the historic Clérigos Tower, Porto showcases its heritage with a stunning array of Baroque, Gothic and Romanesque buildings that have been preserved for centuries.

The Douro River, which winds its way through the city, offers breathtaking views and provides a stunning backdrop to many of Porto’s cultural landmarks.

Additionally, Porto is renowned for its port wine production, which has been an integral part of the city’s history for over two centuries. Visitors can sample the finest port wines at one of the many lodges located along the river and discover the intricate winemaking process that has put Porto on the map.

Is Porto cheaper than Lisbon

The cost of visiting Porto compared to Lisbon can vary depending on several factors such as the time of year and personal spending habits. Generally speaking, Porto tends to be less expensive than Lisbon in terms of accommodation, food, and transportation.

However, both cities have their own unique offerings and attractions at different price points, so it is important to consider your personal preferences and travel budget when deciding which city is right for you.

I’ve found that prices in Lisbon have risen over the last few years, so anecdotally, I have personally found Porto to be that little bit cheaper than Lisbon. 

Does Porto have a beach

Yes, Porto does have beaches reachable within the out city limits. The most popular of these is Matosinhos Beach, which is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Offering a long stretch of golden sand, it’s a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

The beach is easily accessible by public transportation, including the metro and buses, and there are plenty of facilities such as restaurants, cafes, and changing rooms. For those who prefer a quieter beach experience, there are several other beaches located nearby that can be reached by car or bus.