Picture this: colorful buildings tumbling down steep hillsides towards a gleaming river, historic trams rattling along cobblestone streets, and the rich aroma of aged wine wafting from ancient cellars. Welcome to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city and a true gem nestled on the banks of the Douro River.

Porto is more than just the birthplace of the famous Port wine; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with a vibrant soul, delicious food, and breathtaking views around every corner. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, carving out a few days for Porto is absolutely a must-do. But where do you start? Here’s your essential guide to what to see and do in this captivating city.

Iconic Sights: What to See

Porto’s beauty lies in its architecture, its history, and its stunning natural setting by the river. Get ready to explore on foot!

1. Ribeira District: This is the historic heart of Porto and its most iconic image. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, admire the brightly colored buildings, and soak up the lively atmosphere along the Cais da Ribeira waterfront. It’s the perfect spot for photos, people-watching, or enjoying a drink by the river.
2. Dom Luís I Bridge: Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this impressive double-decker metal arch bridge connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro. You can walk across both the lower and upper levels. The upper level offers truly spectacular panoramic views of Porto’s skyline and the river.
3. São Bento Train Station: Don’t just pass through – step inside this operational train station to marvel at its incredible azulejo tile panels. Installed between 1905 and 1916, these 20,000+ blue and white tiles depict scenes from Portuguese history and rural life. It’s a stunning, unexpected art gallery within a transit hub.
4. Clérigos Church and Tower: This Baroque church is a prominent landmark, and its tall, slender tower is visible from many parts of the city. For just a small fee, you can climb the 225 steps to the top of the Clérigos Tower for arguably the best 360-degree views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
5. Livraria Lello: Often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau interior, particularly its ornate red staircase. It’s rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling (who lived in Porto) while she was writing the Harry Potter series. Be aware there’s usually a small entrance fee, and it can get very crowded.
6. Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto): One of the city’s oldest monuments, the cathedral has a fortress-like appearance and blends Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Located on a high point, it offers great views from its terrace and provides insight into Porto’s early history.

Essential Experiences: What to Do

Beyond the famous landmarks, Porto offers experiences that tap into its culture, cuisine, and unique geography.

1. Have a Port Wine Tasting: This is non-negotiable! Most of the major Port wine cellars (caves) are located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a tour to learn about the production process and, of course, sample different varieties of Port (white, ruby, tawny). You can find tours ranging from quick tastings to extensive cellar visits.
2. Take a Douro River Cruise: A short river cruise (often called a “Six Bridges Cruise”) is a popular and relaxing way to see the city’s waterfront and all the bridges from a different perspective. For a longer adventure, consider a day trip or multi-day cruise up the Douro Valley, a breathtaking landscape of terraced vineyards.
3. Ride a Historic Tram: Step back in time by hopping on one of Porto’s vintage trams. Line 1, which runs along the riverfront from the center towards the Foz do Douro (river mouth), is particularly scenic. It’s a charming, if sometimes slow, way to get around.
4. Explore Vila Nova de Gaia: While technically a separate city, Gaia is easily accessible via the Dom Luís I bridge or a short river taxi. This is where you’ll find all the Port cellars and waterfront restaurants. It also offers some of the most stunning views of Porto’s skyline, especially around sunset.
5. Walk, Walk, Walk: Porto is a city best explored on foot, but be prepared for hills! Wear comfortable shoes and allow yourself to get a little lost wandering through the winding alleys, discovering hidden squares, and admiring the azulejo tiles adorning many buildings.
6. Indulge in the Food Scene: Porto has fantastic food. Don’t leave without trying a Francesinha, a hearty, unique sandwich layered with various meats, covered in melted cheese, and drowned in a rich, savory tomato-and-beer sauce (it’s often served with fries). Also seek out fresh seafood, Portuguese pastries (Pastéis de Nata are everywhere in Portugal, but try them warm!), and local petiscos (tapas-like small plates).

Practical Tips for Your Porto Trip

• Getting Around: The historic center is very walkable, but remember those hills! Public transport includes a metro system, buses, and trams. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
• Comfortable Shoes: Seriously, bring your most comfortable sneakers or walking shoes. Your feet will thank you.
• Porto Card: If you plan on using a lot of public transport and visiting multiple museums/attractions, the Porto Card might save you money.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
• Language: Portuguese is the official language. In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic Portuguese phrases is always appreciated.

Porto is a city with incredible character, from its historic core to its modern edges, all tied together by the majestic Douro River and the spirit of its most famous export. Get ready to fall in love with its charm, its flavors, and its unforgettable views. Enjoy your trip!