Things to do
Things to see
1 - Mercado Bolhão (Bolhão Market) - An open air market in an old neoclassical building where you can find fresh produce, meat, flowers, and other regional products. 2 - São Bento Station - One of Porto's main train stations and the first sight for most visitors taking the train from the airport, be sure to look up when walking through the halls. The beautiful Azulejos tiling depict Portugal's long history. 3 - Livraria Lello (Lello Bookstore) - This library inspired the grand staircase in Hogwarts, as JK Rowling lived in Porto when writing her first Harry Potter book. Be sure to buy an entrance ticket ahead of time online! 4 - Ponte Dom Luis I (Dom Luis I Bridge) - Designed by a pupil of Gustav Eiffel in 1886, this bridge has a great sunset spot on one side of it (Jardim do Morro). Walk across the bridge for a great view of the city! 5 - Igreja e Torre Clérigos (Clérigos Church and Tower) - Built in 18th century, visitors can climb the tower steps to the tallest point in the city!
Bars
Bar Aduela - One of our favorite bars in Porto! 15 Euro bottles of wine in iced down buckets, and (if you're lucky) a table and chairs that has great vibes until late. We usually make friends every time we go here, so don't be shy! Bosco Bar - Stylish, atmospheric bar with an inviting and modern vibe. Base Porto - Cool, vibrant, open-air bar with cocktails and more in the center of town. Flor - Porto's hottest new bar, great for people-watching and cocktails by the talented mixologists
Restaurants
Vinum - A renowned wine bar and restaurant located in Porto, specifically at the Graham's Lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from the main city. Enoteca 17º- offers a sophisticated wine list and delicious tapas-style dishes that pair perfectly with the wine selection. My Palace Restaurant- Great restaurant for typical Portuguese food. Ask for Lino as your waiter if you go, and the Francesinha is one of our favorites in the city! Brasão dos Aliados- Another great restaurant for a Francesinha and other Portuguese food. Interior decor is also great here, but it's busy so be sure to make a reservation online. Turmeric Restaurant- Amazing Indian restaurant in the center of town. The owner used to run a fine dining restaurant in Dubai before moving to Porto. The wings are a great appetizer!
Day Trips
1 - Douro River Valley Region Wine Tour Porto has a few different companies that offer day trips by boat that go up the Douro River and offer winery tours. These tours are a perfect full day outing for all wine lovers. More information can be found on sites like Viator 2 - Guimarães Known as the birthplace of Portugal, this UNESCO World Heritage city offers plenty of medieval charm, from the Guimarães Castle to the beautiful Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. The town is also full of picturesque narrow streets and is often described as a living museum. 3 - Amarante A quaint town known for its beautiful riverfront and the São Gonçalo Bridge, Amarante is also famous for its delicious pastries. It’s a peaceful, picturesque destination just an hour from Porto. 4 - Algarve - Known as the California of Europe, this beautiful destination is better for those who have at least 2 days to spare. Serene white sand beaches with turquoise water, and more seafood and white wine than you can handle!
