Porto is rightfully earning recognition as one of Europe’s must-visit cities. There’s a lot to love about this trendy spot, from its stunning architecture and cool cocktail bars to its rich history and great shopping options. And let’s not forget the famous Port Wine! But with so much to do, where should you start? This Porto City Guide will answer your questions and help you make the most of your visit.
Thanks to budget airlines, Porto has become a favorite among weekend tourists. It’s easy to get around, and you can see the main sights in no time. To save you time and energy, let’s get into the best areas to explore:
The main tourist area is the Ribeira, down by the Douro River. It’s the heart of Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage Historic Center. While it might not offer the most authentic experiences or undiscovered restaurants, it’s a lively and charming spot perfect for people-watching and enjoying the sun.
Don’t miss the Cathedral, located in a historical area that also includes the Episcopal Palace and the Tourist Office, making it one of the top places to visit.
Rua das Flores connects the Ribeira with Cedofeita, the hip bar and nightlife district. This street is packed with cafés, shops, and sights, and is also home to the extraordinary Palacio da Bolsa, the city’s former stock exchange, featuring eclectic interior architecture.
On Rua das Flores, you’ll find ViniPortugal’s Porto Tasting Room at numbers 8-12. It’s a great starting point if you’re curious about wines, especially Port. You can sample various wines using their machines or join a thematic tasting. This experience might inspire you to explore deeper into the world of Port Wine.
Interestingly, Port Wine producers are based in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River. Here, you can take a tour of the cellars and enjoy tastings from various producers. We recommend Graham’s Lodge, which also has a restaurant with amazing views of the river and Porto. If you’re not up for the hike, Sandeman and other riverside options are more accessible. Tasting tours generally start at 20€, with prices increasing for older, higher-quality ports.
Once you find a Port you love, you can buy it directly from the shop or take a set back home for a tasting party with friends. While Villa Nova de Gaia is the center for Port Wine, don’t forget about ViniPortugal’s Porto Tasting Room on Rua das Flores if you want to try other types of wines.
If you’re looking to do some shopping, Porto won’t disappoint. Rua Santa Catarina is the main pedestrian shopping street with all the high-street brands you find everywhere. But for something unique, check out Mercado do Bolhão for souvenirs, vegetables, and more. It’s a recently renovated spot that still retains some of its charm.
Around the Clerigos Tower, you’ll find a mix of high-end brands and quirky shops like Fernandes, Mattos & Ca, which sells unique Portuguese products. Don’t miss the famous Livraria Lello, an Art Nouveau bookshop that looks like it’s straight out of a Harry Potter movie.
For lesser-known brands and potential bargains, head to Rua de Cedofeita, another pedestrian shopping street. From there, explore Travessa Cedofeita and Rua de Conceicao for trendy vintage stores, old comic book shops, a wooden bike store, and boutique fashion outlets. This area is perfect for finding something unique or out-of-the-ordinary.
Finally, check out the area between the Clerigos Tower and Aliados Avenue for affordable and trendy dining options. Especially around Galeria de Paris, you’ll find cool cocktail bars and quirky cafés. This area really comes alive after 9 PM, making it perfect for a night out. Try the €7 brunch at Galeria de Paris, enjoy a mojito at Baixa Bar, or sip a €5 Caipirinha at Era Uma Vez No Paris, which has a Twin Peaks-vibe in a good way!
Enjoy your time in Porto!
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