Discover the vibrant city of Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, with this extensive list of 100 exciting things to do in Porto, Portugal. From historical landmarks to gastronomic delights, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you as soon as you leave Porto Airport.
Have you ever been to the beautiful city of Porto? With its colorful buildings, winding streets and stunning views, it’s no surprise that this Portuguese gem is a popular holiday destination for people from all over the world. But what can you do when you’re there? Well, if you’re looking for some inspiration, here are 100 things to see and do in Porto! From fun activities like kayaking on the Douro River to cultural experiences such as visiting one of Europe’s oldest bookstores; explore these unique ideas to make your stay in Porto even more memorable.
For those who love an outdoor adventure, Porto won’t disappoint. Not only can visitors enjoy hiking along trails with incredible views but they can also go swimming or sailing at several local beaches. Plus, why not take a boat cruise down the Douro river and soak up the sun while admiring the ancient bridges which span over it? There are plenty of options available so don’t miss out on this opportunity to get close to nature while exploring Portugal’s second-largest city.
However, if being outdoors isn’t your thing then fear not – there are still plenty of exciting attractions and landmarks worth checking out in Porto. Take a trip back in time by strolling through Ribeira Square and marveling at historical monuments such as Palacio da Bolsa or visit Torre dos Clerigos for breathtaking views of the city from above. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, there really is something for everyone in this vibrant portuguese city!
The Road Butler has worked in and around Porto, Portugal for years. Knowing all the best places to go in Porto, time to go and how to get there! Fancy a Douro Valley private wine tour near Porto off the tourist track? Reach out to discuss.
100 things to do in porto – build your itinerary
- Livraria Lello – Visit one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
- Clérigos Tower – Climb the 225 steps of this iconic Baroque bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Cais da Ribeira – Stroll along the picturesque riverfront promenade, taking in its colorful buildings and bustling atmosphere.
- Dom Luís I Bridge – Walk across this iconic double-deck metal arch bridge that connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia.
- São Bento Railway Station – Admire the elaborate blue and white azulejo tilework that adorns this historic train station’s walls.
- Palácio da Bolsa – Tour this 19th-century neoclassical palace, which houses the city’s former stock exchange.
- Church of São Francisco – Visit this Gothic church and marvel at its opulent Baroque interior filled with gold leaf.
- Casa da Música – Attend a concert or take a guided tour of Porto‘s renowned modern music venue.
- Serralves Museum – Explore contemporary art at this impressive museum designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira.
- Foz do Douro – Relax on the beaches of Foz, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean.
- Bolhão Market – Sample local produce and specialty foods at this bustling traditional market.
- Crystal Palace Gardens – Wander through these beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy stunning city views.
- Ribeira Square – Immerse yourself in Porto’s history at this UNESCO-listed square, home to several significant monuments.
- Porto Cathedral – Discover this 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments.
- Church of Santa Clara – Visit this 15th-century Gothic church and marvel at its ornate Rococo woodwork.
- Majestic Café – Indulge in a coffee and pastry at this opulent, historic café.
- Taylor’s Port Wine Cellars – Take a guided tour and taste world-renowned Port wine at one of Vila Nova de Gaia’s famous cellars.
- Douro River Cruise – Embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Douro River, admiring the city’s picturesque landscape.
- Jardins do Palácio de Cristal – Explore the romantic gardens surrounding the Crystal Palace and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Aliados Avenue – Take a walk along this grand boulevard, lined with impressive neoclassical buildings.
- Ferreira Borges Market – Experience Porto’s vibrant cultural scene at this historic iron market, now an exhibition and events space.
- FC Porto Museum and Estádio do Dragão – Visit the home of Porto’s football team and delve into its history at the interactive museum.
- Portuguese Centre of Photography – Browse the fascinating collection of photographs and cameras housed in a former prison.
- City Park – Relax in Porto’s largest urban park, featuring lakes, sports facilities, and plenty of green space.
- Casa do Infante – Learn about Porto’s history at this museum, located in the building where Prince Henry the Navigator was born.
- Sea Life Porto – Explore the wonders of the ocean at this interactive aquarium, perfect for families.
- Igreja dos Carmelitas – Admire the unique blue-and-white tiled facade of this 17th-century church, located next to the Church of Carmo. The two churches are separated by one of the world’s narrowest houses, which was once occupied by monks.
- Jardim da Cordoaria – Stroll through this peaceful city park, adorned with sculptures and tall, leafy trees.
- Church of Saint Ildefonso – Visit this 18th-century Baroque church, famous for its distinctive blue-and-white azulejo tiles.
- Mercado Bom Sucesso – Shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods at this contemporary market, housed in a modernist building.
- Galerias de Paris – Experience Porto’s nightlife in this trendy district, filled with lively bars, restaurants, and clubs.
- Museu Romântico – Step back in time at this 19th-century museum, showcasing the Romantic era’s art and artifacts.
- Church of Santa Marinha – Discover this hidden gem, a beautifully restored church with stunning azulejo tiles.
- Miradouro da Vitória – Take in breathtaking city views from this panoramic viewpoint.
- Matosinhos Beach – Catch some sun and surf on this popular stretch of coastline, located just outside Porto.
- Soares dos Reis National Museum – Explore Portugal’s first public art museum, housing an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings.
- Jardim das Virtudes – Relax in this terraced garden, offering fantastic views of the Douro Valley River and Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Café Santiago – Sample Porto’s famous francesinha sandwich at this renowned café.
- Parque da Lavandeira – Escape the city hustle in this expansive park, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.
- World of Discoveries – Immerse yourself in Portugal’s Age of Discovery at this interactive museum and theme park.
- Fonte dos Leões – Snap a photo of this elegant 19th-century fountain, adorned with four lion sculptures.
- Rosa Mota Pavilion – Attend a concert, exhibition, or event at this iconic domed venue.
- Jardim Botânico do Porto – Wander through the tranquil botanical garden, home to diverse plant species and a butterfly house.
- Largo do Amor de Perdição – Discover this picturesque square and its unique street art.
- Passeio Alegre Garden – Take a leisurely walk through this charming riverside garden, featuring fountains and statues.
- Torre dos Clérigos Market – Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts at this vibrant market.
- Avenida dos Aliados Christmas Market – Visit Porto in December and experience the festive atmosphere of this annual market.
- Museu do Carro Eléctrico – Learn about Porto’s transportation history at this museum dedicated to trams.
- Casa-Museu Guerra Junqueiro – Explore the fascinating art and artifacts housed in this 19th-century poet’s former residence.
- Livraria Chamine da Mota – Browse a vast collection of antique books and prints at this unique bookstore.
- Jardim da Foz – Take a scenic walk along the Douro River at this picturesque garden.
- Parque de Serralves – Explore the contemporary art installations and lush gardens of this sprawling cultural complex.
- Capela das Almas – Admire the stunning azulejo tilework that covers this 18th-century chapel.
- Espaço T – Visit this cultural center and gallery, showcasing local artists and promoting social inclusion.
- Rota do Chá – Enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea at this cozy, tea-themed café.
- Museu da Misericórdia do Porto – Discover the history of Porto’s charitable institutions at this fascinating museum.
- Passeio das Virtudes – Watch the sunset over Porto from this popular gathering spot and viewpoint.
- Galeria Municipal do Porto – Explore rotating art exhibitions at this contemporary gallery, located in the beautiful Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.
- Capela do Senhor da Pedra – Visit this unique seaside chapel, built on a rocky outcrop along the coast.
- Sandeman Cellars – Tour the historic Sandeman wine cellars and sample their famous Port wines.
- Fado in Porto – Experience an authentic Fado performance, Portugal’s soulful traditional music, at a local venue.
- Centro Português de Fotografia – Discover Portugal’s photographic history at this museum housed in a former courthouse and prison.
- Pala de Bragança – Visit this modern shopping center, featuring a wide variety of shops and eateries.
- Teleférico de Gaia – Take a scenic cable car ride over the Douro River, offering stunning views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Museu do Vinho do Porto – Learn about the history and production of Port wine at this informative museum.
- Jardim da Rotunda da Boavista – Relax in this charming city park, featuring the Monument to the Heroes of the Peninsular War.
- Escape Rooms – Test your problem-solving skills with friends or family at one of Porto’s many escape room experiences.
- Mercado do Bolhão – Visit this traditional market to buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and Portuguese handicrafts.
- Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves – Explore contemporary art exhibitions in this modern museum, set within the beautiful Serralves Park.
- Solar Vinho do Porto – Sample a variety of Port wines at this picturesque wine lodge, complete with a charming garden.
- Queijaria Amaral – Indulge in a selection of Portuguese cheeses at this quaint, family-run cheese shop.
- Parque das Nações – Explore this expansive park, perfect for family picnics, leisurely walks, and bike rides.
- Igreja do Carmo – Admire the striking azulejo tilework on the exterior of this 18th-century Rococo church.
- Casa dos Azulejos – Visit this beautifully restored 18th-century house, adorned with exquisite azulejo tiles.
- Taste Porto Food Tours – Discover Porto’s culinary scene on a guided food tour, sampling local specialties along the way.
- Parque da Cidade – Enjoy outdoor activities in Porto’s largest park, featuring playgrounds, sports facilities, and plenty of green space.
- Estação de São Bento – Admire the stunning azulejo tilework that decorates this historic railway station.
- Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos – Visit this beautiful Baroque church, featuring a unique oval-shaped nave.
- Maré Viva – Dine on delicious seafood dishes at this popular Porto restaurant.
- Miguel Bombarda Art Galleries – Explore the vibrant art scene in Porto’s trendy arts district, filled with galleries and studios.
- Miradouro Ignez – Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Porto from this scenic viewpoint.
- Casa da Música Rooftop Terrace – Enjoy a drink and take in the city views from the terrace of Porto’s iconic concert hall.
- Museu Militar do Porto – Learn about Portugal’s military history at this fascinating museum, housed in a former army barracks.
- Parque Biológico de Gaia – Discover native flora and fauna at this educational park, featuring walking trails and a butterfly garden.
- Surf Lessons – Hit the waves and learn to surf at one of Porto’s nearby beaches.
- Mercado Ferreira Borges – Attend a cultural event, art exhibition, or concert at this historic iron market, now a vibrant cultural center.
- Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis – Discover Portuguese art and history at this prestigious national museum.
- Parque do Covelo – Escape the city bustle in this leafy park, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Cat Café – Sip a coffee and enjoy the company of friendly felines at this unique Porto café.
- Tram Ride – Experience a nostalgic ride on one of Porto’s historic trams, offering a charming way to explore the city.
- Ribeira do Porto – Dine alfresco at one of the many riverside restaurants, taking in the stunning views of the Douro River.
- Jardim de João Chagas – Relax in this centrally located park, featuring a playground, fountains, and a rose garden.
- Miradouro das Virtudes – Enjoy a picnic with friends and admire the panoramic views of Porto from this popular viewpoint.
- Take a Cooking Class – Learn to cook traditional Portuguese dishes at a local cooking school.
- Rent a Bike – Explore Porto’s picturesque streets and waterfront promenades on a rented bike.
- Quinta de Villar d’Allen – Tour this historic estate, featuring beautiful gardens, a manor house, and a collection of antique carriages.
- Igreja de Santo Ildefonso – Visit this striking Baroque church, adorned with intricate azulejo tilework.
- Wine Tasting – Embark on a wine tasting tour and sample the best of the region’s wines and Ports.
- Guided Walking Tour – Join a guided walking tour to learn about Porto’s history, architecture, and hidden gems.
- Muralha Fernandina – Explore the remnants of Porto’s medieval walls and take in the stunning views of the city.
bonus things to do in porto
Discover Street Art In Porto’s Graffiti Alley
Another great way to experience the culture of Porto is to explore its street art scene. The Graffiti Alley, located in downtown Porto near the train station, is a must-visit for anyone looking to see some truly creative and inspiring artwork. With over 500 graffiti pieces, this alleyway has become an iconic spot within the vibrant city of Porto.
The alley is filled with colorful murals that range from political statements and social justice messages to portraits of famous people like David Bowie and Bob Marley. Not only do these works add vibrancy to the streets, they also provide insight into Portuguese culture and values. Many visitors find themselves drawn to the unique energy created by these diverse perspectives expressed through art. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around taking photos and admiring each piece. So if you’re ready for something different, take time out of your day to experience the beauty and creativity found in Graffiti Alley.
Porto is a great destination for those looking to explore and have an unforgettable time. There’s something here for everyone – whether you’re into art or nature, there are plenty of activities that will surely make your stay in the city memorable. From walking tours around its historical streets to exploring its vibrant nightlife scene and taking boat rides along the Douro River, it’s hard not to fall in love with this charming Portuguese city. My personal favorite was discovering street art in Graffiti Alley – I loved seeing how creative people can be! So if you’re ever in need of a break from reality, Porto should be at the top of your list. You won’t regret it!
100 things to do in porto conclusion
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Porto offers something for everyone. This list of 100 things to do is just a starting point for your adventures in this captivating city. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a beach lover, Porto is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. Happy exploring! Don’t forget if you want private wine tours or exclusive airport transfers, contact The Road Butler!