Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Porto, Portugal 🇵🇹

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Places to Visit
   • Ribeira
   • Church of São Francisco
   • Clérigos Tower and Church
   • Livraria Lello
   • Porto Cathedral
   • Palácio da Bolsa
3. Activities
   • Douro River Cruise
   • Visit the Wine Caves (Casas do Vinho do Porto)
   • Walk along the Ponte de Dom Luís I
4. Where to Eat
   • Food Recommendations
   • Traditional Porto Cafés
5. Where to Stay
   • Accommodation Options
6. Things to Know
   • Language
   • Currency
   • Tipping Culture
7. Transportation
   • Getting Around Porto
8. Tips & Other Things of Interest
   • Festivals and Events
   • Day Trips from Porto
   • Useful Phrases in Portuguese

Introduction 🌞️

Welcome to Porto, a vibrant and enchanting city nestled on the Iberian Peninsula! Known for its iconic port wine, picturesque cobblestone streets, and historic architecture, Porto is a must-visit destination in Portugal. This guide will help you navigate this magical city, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Places to Visit 🏞️

Ribeira 🚤️

Ribeira, or the riverside district, is Porto’s oldest neighborhood and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its charming, narrow streets lined with colorful houses, cafes, and shops. Don’t miss the Ponte de Dom Luís I bridge and the Ribeira Market (Mercado do Bolhão).

Church of São Francisco ⛪️

The Church of São Francisco is an impressive Gothic-Baroque church adorned with intricate carvings. Inside, you’ll find a stunning gold altarpiece and the famous Chapel of Bones, decorated with skulls and bones!

Clérigos Tower and Church 🏯️

Climb the 240 steps to the top of Clérigos Tower for breathtaking views over Porto. The tower is part of the Clérigos Church, a Baroque masterpiece built in the early 18th century.

Livraria Lello 📚️

Visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores and rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling while she lived in Porto. Remember, books are a must-buy souvenir!

Porto Cathedral 🕍️

The Porto Cathedral dates back to the 12th century and offers stunning views over the city. Take your time exploring its Gothic architecture, including the three naves, various chapels, and the bell tower.

Palácio da Bolsa 🏰️

Palácio da Bolsa, the Stock Exchange Palace, is a magnificent example of Neoclassical architecture. Guided tours take you through the Arab Room, the Golden Room, and the National Coal Museum.

Activities 🎉️

Douro River Cruise 🚤️

Take a boat trip along the Douro River to admire the stunning vineyards that produce Porto’s famous wine. Some tours include wine tastings!

Visit the Wine Caves (Casas do Vinho do Porto) 🍷️

Explore the cellars of some of Porto’s most renowned port wine producers, such as Taylor’s, Sandeman, or Graham’s. Tastings are usually included!

Walk along the Ponte de Dom Luís I 🚶️‍♀️

Stroll across the iconic Ponte de Dom Luís I bridge, which offers stunning views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia on either side. Don’t forget your camera!

Where to Eat 🍴️

Food Recommendations 🥘️

• Francesinha - Porto’s famous sandwich filled with meat, cheese, and covered in a thick beer sauce.
• Bacalhau à Brás - Shredded cod with potatoes, onions, eggs, and parsley.
• Tripas à Moda do Porto - Tripe stew cooked with white beans, cabbage, and chouriço sausage.

Traditional Porto Cafés ☕️

• Café Majestic - A Belle Époque coffee house serving classic Portuguese pastries and sandwiches since 1921.
• Café Guarany - Known for its Art Nouveau interior, this café serves delicious coffee and traditional Portuguese snacks.

Where to Stay 🏨️

Accommodation Options 🛌️

• Hotels: From budget to luxury options, Porto has a wide variety of hotels catering to all preferences. Some popular choices include Pestana Porto, EuroStars Oporto Hotel & Suites, and Vila Foz.
• Apartments/Holiday Homes: Rent an apartment or holiday home for a more authentic experience. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and HomeToGo offer a variety of options.
• Hostels: For budget travelers, there are several hostels in Porto offering comfortable and affordable accommodation. Some popular choices include Selina Porto Ribeira, Yes! Porto Hostel, and Porto Hostel & Suites.

Things to Know 💡️

Language 🗣️

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal. Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases.

Currency 💵️

The Euro (€) is the official currency in Portugal. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but cash remains essential for small purchases or tipping.

Tipping Culture 🌐️

Tipping in Porto is customary, with a service charge often included in bills at restaurants and hotels. If the service charge isn’t included, leave around 10% as a tip.

Transportation 🚗️

Getting Around Porto 🚎️

Porto has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the Metro. Tickets can be purchased at stations or from ticket machines. Consider getting a rechargeable Viva Viagem card for multiple trips.

Tips & Other Things of Interest 🔑️

Festivals and Events 🎉️

• Festas de São João - A major summer event celebrated on the night of June 23rd, featuring music, food, and fireworks.
• River of Flowers - An annual event in May when the streets of Porto are decorated with flowers.

Day Trips 🚗️

• Guimarães - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Portugal, offering a glimpse into medieval Portugal.
• Braga - Known as the “City of Students,” Braga boasts several historic landmarks, such as the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary and the Cathedral of Braga.

Happy exploring! 🌟️