Porto, the soulful city along the Douro River, is Portugal’s second-largest city—but first in charm. With its cobbled streets, colorful riverside buildings, world-renowned wine, and laid-back vibe, Porto is a perfect blend of culture, food, and history—without the crowds of Lisbon.
Stroll the Ribeira District at Golden Hour
The Ribeira waterfront is Porto’s beating heart. Stroll along the colorful facades as the sun sets behind the Dom LuĂs I Bridge. Street musicians play Fado, locals sip wine, and the river glows with reflections of tiled buildings.
đź“Ś Also check out: Best Sunset Spots in Europe
đź“Ś Related: Top Riverfront Cities for Slow Travel
Taste Port Wine in a Historic Cellar
You can’t visit Porto without trying its namesake—Port wine. Cross the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and tour legendary cellars like Graham’s or Sandeman, where century-old barrels age the region’s famous fortified wines.
đź“Ś Learn more: Wine Regions Worth Traveling For
đź“Ś Before you go: Tipping & Etiquette in Portugal
Ride the Iconic Tram 1
Board the vintage Tram 1 from the city center to Foz do Douro, where the river meets the Atlantic. The clattering ride takes you past churches, tiled houses, and locals going about their day.
đź“Ś Suggested: Top 10 Vintage Trams Around the World
đź“Ś Explore: How to Travel Portugal by Public Transit
Climb Clérigos Tower for a Rooftop View
For the best panoramic view of Porto, ascend the Clérigos Tower. From the top, you’ll see red rooftops, the river’s curve, and the grandeur of Porto Cathedral just beyond.
đź“Ś View lover? Read: Best City Views in Europe
đź“Ś Also try: DIY Walking Tours in Porto
Try a Francesinha (If You Dare)
Porto’s most iconic dish, the Francesinha, is a monster sandwich of steak, ham, sausage, cheese, and spicy beer sauce—topped with a fried egg. Head to Café Santiago for the best (and most gut-busting) version.
đź“Ś Hungry? Read: 5 Must-Try Dishes Across Europe
đź“Ś Compare: Lisbon vs Porto: Foodie Showdown
Discover Livraria Lello — The Harry Potter Bookstore
Book lovers and Potterheads alike must visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores and rumored inspiration for Hogwarts. Its neo-Gothic interiors and red-carpet staircase are pure magic.
đź“Ś Related: Unusual Bookstores You Should Visit Once
đź“Ś Porto tip: Avoid Tourist Traps in Portugal
