Is It Worth Visiting Porto in Portugal?
When we docked in Porto during our cruise, we didn’t have the highest expectations. Our original plan was to spend the day at the beach, but the forecast predicted rain, so we decided to explore the city instead. What a happy accident that turned out to be! The rain never came, and instead, we experienced the hottest day of our entire trip. So is it worth visiting Porto in Portugal?
Porto isn’t just worth visiting, it’s a city that leaves you speechless. With its rich history, stunning azulejo tiles, charming Ribeira district, and mouthwatering local cuisine, Porto is hands down the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen. In this post, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting Porto and why this charming city deserves a spot on your travel list.
Is 3 Days in Porto Enough?
If one day in Porto was enough to make us fall head over heels, then three days would be pure magic. While you can cover the highlights of Porto in a single day, three days allow you to slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and explore more of what this historic city has to offer.
With three days, you can enjoy:
- A day dedicated to Porto’s historic centre, including landmarks like the Porto Cathedral and São Bento Train Station.
- A second day exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, the home of port wine.
- A day trip to the Douro Valley for wine tastings and scenic views.
Is Porto a Beach City?
While Porto isn’t a typical beach city, it does have several beaches nearby, such as Praia de Matosinhos and Praia da Foz. These sandy stretches are perfect for a relaxing escape, but Porto itself is more of a coastal city with breathtaking views of the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean.
Is Porto a Cheap City?
Yes, Porto is one of the more affordable European cities, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers. You’ll find great food, affordable accommodations, and plenty of free things to do in Porto.
What Is Porto Famous For?
Porto is famous for several things, including:
- Port wine: The city is the birthplace of this sweet, fortified wine.
- Azulejo tiles: Beautiful blue and white tiles decorate many of Porto’s buildings.
- Harry Potter connections: Fans will love the city’s links to the series, such as the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
- Historic buildings: Landmarks like the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Porto Cathedral showcase the city’s history.
- Ribeira district: A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colourful houses and cobblestone streets.
Porto Portugal Things to Do: Our Day in Porto
Getting to the City
We started our day with a 20-minute coach ride from the port to the city centre. The coach, provided by our cruise, was free, which was a nice bonus.
The moment we arrived, I was in awe. Porto’s historic centre is an absolute gem, with its mix of colourful buildings, old-world charm, and picturesque streets.
Exploring the Waterfront
Our first stop was a walk along the banks of the Douro River in the Ribeira district. The vibrant waterfront is lined with cafes, restaurants, and stalls selling local crafts.
The Sardine Store
While wandering, we stumbled upon a store that looked like something out of a Christmas movie or the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory. Intrigued, we went inside, only to discover that the entire shop was dedicated to sardines!
It was such a quirky and unexpected find. The store was filled with beautifully designed tins of sardines, and there was even a throne-like chair with two goldfish on either side. Naturally, my daughter Krystabelle had to have her picture taken there!
Lunch in Porto
For lunch, we chose a cosy restaurant near the waterfront. I had prawns, while Jake ordered chorizo served on fire, yes, flames and all! The kids, however, seemed more interested in the complimentary bread rolls, which they happily demolished.
Walking Across the Dom Luís I Bridge
After lunch, we headed to the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, one of Porto’s most famous landmarks. This double-deck metal bridge offers stunning views of the city and the Douro River.
On the other side, in Vila Nova de Gaia, we discovered a vibrant market with stalls selling cork jewellery, tuk-tuk ornaments, and lots more.
Ice Cream Break and Steep Hills
While exploring, we came across the steepest hill I’ve ever seen. Coming from Wales, that’s saying something! We decided to pause for a well-deserved ice cream break before continuing our adventure.
The Perfect End to the Day: A Pina Colada in a Pineapple
Before heading back to the coach, I treated myself to a pina colada served in a large pineapple. It was the most delicious pina colada I’ve ever had, a sweet and refreshing end to a perfect day in Porto.
Free Things to Do in Porto
Porto has plenty of free activities for visitors on a budget. Some of the best include:
- São Bento Train Station: Admire the stunning azulejo tiles that tell the story of Portugal’s history.
- Ribeira district: Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views.
- Miradouro da Vitória: Take in panoramic views of the city.
- Porto Cathedral: Visit this historic site and enjoy its beautiful architecture.
- Crystal Palace Gardens: Relax in these lush gardens with views of the Douro River.
Top Things to Do in Porto for a Day
If you only have one day in Porto, here are the must-see attractions:
- Ribeira district: Start your day with a walk along the riverfront.
- São Bento Train Station: Don’t miss the iconic tiles.
- Dom Luís I Bridge: Walk across this architectural masterpiece.
- Livraria Lello: Visit one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
- Vila Nova de Gaia: End your day with a port wine tasting.
Porto’s Connection to Harry Potter
Did you know that Porto inspired parts of the Harry Potter books? J.K. Rowling lived in Porto while working as an English teacher, and many of the city’s landmarks influenced her writing. For example, the Livraria Lello is said to have inspired Hogwarts’ magical staircases.
Port Wine and Vila Nova de Gaia
No visit to Porto is complete without exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, the heart of port wine production. Many of the city’s historic wine cellars offer guided tours and wine tastings, giving you a chance to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
Best Time to Visit Porto
The best time to visit Porto is during the spring (April to June) or Autumn / fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
Is Porto Worth Visiting? Final Thoughts
Porto is absolutely worth visiting. From its charming historic centre to its great food, stunning views, and unique attractions, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or just looking for a great destination, Porto will steal your heart.
We went in with no expectations and left with a newfound love for this incredible city. If you’re planning your first trip to Porto, don’t hesitate, it’s a decision you won’t regret!
Caryl Ann
I miss the Portuguese cuisine, which I fell in love with on my last visit. I haven’t had a chance to visit Porto yet, but it looks like a beautiful city with lots to do. Thanks for sharing!
Lunch in Porto and the piña colada in the pineapple were definitely the highlight for me. As a foodie and nature lover, beautiful sun kissed landscapes and delicious meals are huge for me. Porto sounds amazing!