Things To Do
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is regarded as one of the world's most beautiful bookstores! One of Portugal's oldest bookstores with a beautiful facade that emanates the style around Porto, the store contains spectacular woodwork, walls brimming with leather bound books, and an iconic red staircase. The bookstore is rumored to have provided inspiration for Flourish & Blotts in the Harry Potter books. This is a hot spot so please plan ahead, and book tickets in advance - it is better to visit the store early in the morning if you want to avoid a large crowd!
Ponte Dom Luis I
Cross the one of Porto's iconic bridges with breathtaking views of Porto and its sister city, Vila Nova da Gaia. On the Gaia side, you will find some of Porto's famous port wine adegas to sip the city's famous port wine, as well as a nice area to leisurely stroll along the river.
Douro River Valley
The Douro Valley can be experienced in a variety of ways, such as by train or river cruise, but no matter which way, the experience will surely be one to remember. This is a must do for all to experience and see!
São Bento Station
Estação Sao Bento is Porto's iconic railway station, that displays thousands of traditional blue and white azulejos tiles that depict the history of Portugal. Built after the demolition of the convent in which the station retains its name, this train station is a central hub for local and regional transit. Trains depart from this station if you would like to explore the Douro Valley area!
Chapel of Santa Catarina
Like Estação Sao Bento, a Capela da Santa Catarina, or the Chapel of Souls, also boasts a must-see exterior of about 16,000 breathtaking blue and white azulejos that depict the lives of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Catherine.
Torre dos Clérigos
One of the most visited locations and an iconic landmark of Porto, the Torre dos Clérigos offers a stunning 360 view of Porto and Vila Nova da Gaia from the top of its 75m tower. It is a beautiful blend of history, religion, architecture, and art that everyone would enjoy. We do recommend planning your visit here ahead of time!
Casa da Música
This is one of Porto's more unique buildings as every interior space was designed for music. The Casa da Música is an iconic concert hall that holds regular musical events, including fado concerts. With the auditorium offering the Porto cityscape as a backdrop, it is truly a sight to behold while listening to beautiful music.
Food & Drinks to Try!
We want everyone to try everything! Portuguese cuisine is simple and light with many dishes using only olive oil, salt and garlic as the base for the dishes. You cannot go wrong with any dish. For our foodies, here are some of Rafael's recommendations to try here in Porto: - Francesinha: bring your appetite when you eat one of these! We recommend dipping your fries in that delicious sauce. - Muscatel: when in the Douro Valley, it goes without saying that one must try port wine but to those going on winery tours, Muscatel may be available - a sweeter but stronger version of port wine. - Pastel de Nata: when in Portugal, everyone should try a Pastel de Nata, though its origin is in the Lisbon area of Belem, made by monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in the 18th century!
