Porto is a city that wins you over from the very first moment, with its unique atmosphere and authentic charm.
Built along the banks of the Douro River, Porto combines history, architecture, and an effortless beauty. Colorful houses, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views create a setting that feels like it has come straight out of a postcard.
Porto truly has something for everyone — from iconic landmarks and historic monuments to food experiences and romantic walks by the river.
You don’t need many days to explore Porto. Two days are enough to really enjoy it. In fact, it pairs perfectly with a trip to Lisbon, making a five-day itinerary ideal to experience both cities.
Transportation in Porto
Porto has a fairly good transport network with metro lines and buses, although most attractions are located in the city center and can easily be explored on foot.
I arrived in Porto from Lisbon by train, and from the station I took a bus to reach the city center, although I believe Uber is more convenient if you are at least two people.
Uber rides in Porto -just like in Lisbon- are quite affordable, helping you save time and see more in a single day.
Attractions in Porto
Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos)
Clérigos Tower is one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks and offers panoramic views of the city for those willing to climb its steps. Built in the 18th century, it stands out for its baroque architecture. It’s the perfect place to start your exploration.
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its stunning wooden staircase and stained glass create an almost magical atmosphere. It is said to have inspired J. K. Rowling in creating the world of Harry Potter.
The entrance fee is €10, but if you buy a book, the amount is deducted from your purchase.
Igreja do Carmo
Igreja do Carmo is famous for its impressive façade covered in blue azulejos (tiles). Right next to it is Igreja dos Carmelitas, with one of the narrowest houses in Europe in between. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the city.
Rua das Flores
Rua das Flores is a lively pedestrian street filled with cafés, restaurants, and small shops. It’s perfect for a stroll at any time of the day.
Miradouro da Vitória
Miradouro da Vitória offers one of the most beautiful free views in Porto. From here, you can admire the Douro River, the bridge, and the iconic rooftops of Ribeira. It’s an ideal spot for sunset.
Palácio da Bolsa & Monumento ao Infante Dom Henrique
Palácio da Bolsa is an impressive neoclassical building that once housed the city’s stock exchange. Just a few steps away, the Monumento ao Infante Dom Henrique honors Prince Henry the Navigator. The area beautifully combines history, architecture, and a sense of grandeur.
Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral is one of the city’s oldest monuments. It combines Romanesque and Gothic styles and offers stunning views from its courtyard. It is an important historical and religious landmark.
Cais da Ribeira
Cais da Ribeira is the most picturesque and lively area along the Douro River. Colorful buildings, restaurants, and music create a unique atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for dining or an evening walk.
São Bento Station
São Bento Railway Station is perhaps the most impressive train station in Portugal.
Its interior is decorated with thousands of azulejos depicting historical scenes. Even if you’re not traveling by train, it’s absolutely worth a visit.
Capela das Almas de Santa Catarina
Capela das Almas stands out for its façade covered in blue and white tiles. The scenes depicted are religious and immediately catch your attention. It is located on one of the city’s main shopping streets.
Dom Luís I Bridge
Dom Luís I Bridge is Porto’s iconic double-deck bridge. It connects the city with Vila Nova de Gaia and offers unique views of the Douro River. It’s perfect for walking, especially on the upper level.
Cais da Ribeira de Gaia
Cais da Ribeira de Gaia (this is how you’ll find it on Google Maps) is located right next to the bridge and is the best spot to enjoy views of Porto.
From here, you can admire Ribeira and the bridge in all their glory. It’s an ideal place for photos, especially at sunset.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal are a green oasis within the city. They offer beautiful walking paths and stunning views over the Douro River. It’s the perfect place to relax away from the crowds. If you visit Porto in spring or summer, don’t miss it!
Food in Porto
Pastel de nata
You simply can’t visit Portugal without trying its most famous treat: pastel de nata.
It’s a delicious pastry filled with creamy custard flavored with cinnamon, inside a crispy, buttery crust made from thin layers of dough. You can optionally sprinkle it with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
In Porto, make sure to try it from Manteigaria and Castro.
Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau
One of the most famous foods in all of Portugal — perhaps the most famous — is codfish. In Portugal, you’ll find cod cooked in countless variations.
A popular street food option is the codfish croquette. Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau is one of the best places to try it. You can pair it with a glass of wine, and as a souvenir, they even give you a small glass with the date of your visit.
Personally, I didn’t like the codfish croquette at all, but many people absolutely love it. Since opinions vary, you should definitely try one and decide for yourself.
A Despensa
If you feel like taking a break from Portuguese cuisine, Italian food is always a great choice, and A Despensa is a very good option.
We ordered a fresh salad with burrata, arugula, and jamón ibérico, a carbonara (always a safe choice), and rigatoni with pancetta, confit cherry tomatoes, stracciatella, and Grana Padano cheese.
The space is beautiful and definitely worth a visit.
Mila
Mila is a small cafe-bakery with delicious puff pastries. We tried the cinnamon roll with apple and cream cheese, danish pastry and a croissant with egg and parmesan and they were all amazing.
If you want to see more about my trip in Lisbon, visit my profile on Instagram.
