Porto, Portugal: Discover Life on the Douro
Last Updated: July 29, 2026
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Raise a Glass and Enjoy a Night on the Tiles
When you think of Porto, you think of fine fortified wines, outstanding fresh food, colourful architecture, history, football and the spectacular meandering Douro River.
All of which are at the forefront of Porto's tourism industry, as they should be. However, there's far more to the historic city than first meets the eye.
I've been lucky enough to have visited Porto, Portugal on a couple of occasions, most recently in May 2024.
Hence, I have put together what I think is the best travel guide to Porto, Portugal.
Throughout this guide, I'll walk you through the colourful tiled, cobbled streets and show you the best things to do in Porto. Furthermore, we'll dine with the best foods in the city and talk more about that moreish wine. And yes... I'll take you on a boat ride on the majestic Douro River.
Grab a glass, of Port, of course, and dive into one of the best cities in Europe.
What's Porto, Portugal Like?
Strolling the cobblestoned streets of Porto feels like a festive affair, but one where everyone is invited.
Restaurants and bars strew tables and chairs through the narrow streets, performers perform along the waterfront and the boats skim along the free-flowing River Douro.
People laugh, chat and clink glasses as the sun beats down over the old tiled town.
Life's good.
The distinctive Porto architecture flares along the shores, scattering along the steep, steep streets.
Whilst Porto may look arbitrary, unloved and dated, that is the exact look it's going for. In reality, it's none of those things, it's perfectly planned out, attractive and wonderfully rustic.
Buildings are decorated in distinctive white and blue tiles, each with a stunning postcard vibe. Vast areas of green and flowers dot the otherwise colourful city. The narrow streets twist and wind up the hills, where sunset and sunrise views become unbelievably impressive.
History dominates the town, and the gorgeous palaces, churches and cathedrals tower over the skyline.
Romantic, lively and joyful are the words to describe Porto, Portugal.
How to Get To Porto
Firstly, heads-up, you can use your bank card to tap and go on the metro, buses and other public transport. Likewise, you can also use Porto's public transport Andante card. It's a top-up travel card you can swipe on and off buses, metros, etc, etc...
Cash is accepted on the buses, yet, if you don't have the exact money, it is more faff than it's worth, plus you may end up out of pocket.
So, most of you will arrive in Porto via Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, so I'll start there.
From the airport getting to Porto's historic centre couldn't be easier.
The best options depend on the time of day. If it's rush hour take the Airport Metro (purple line E), which takes around 30 minutes to Bolhão, and costs €2.25. The metro leaves the airport, every fifteen minutes between 7am and 8pm. Every half an hour out of those times until 0:42am.
If it's not rush hour, download the Bolt app and grab a taxi to your door for around €8-9. Don't pay around €30 for an airport taxi.
If you are arriving in Porto, Portugal by train, you'll arrive at either São Bento Train Station in the heart of the old town or Campanha Train Station on the city's eastern fringes, near Freixo Bridge.
Arriving at São Bento Station, you'll be in the hub of everything, and a short five-minute walk south to Pont LuÃs I. However, if you arrive at Campanha Station, jump on the metro just outside and head three stops into Bolhão or four stops to Trindade.
If you arrive by bus, you'll likely arrive at Porto Bus station next to Campanha Train station. So, again, it'll be a short metro ride into the city from Campanhã Metro station.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Porto?
Porto is a magnificent city, and you could easily fill a week. Plus, that gives you time to enjoy a different port house every night of the week.
Anyhoo, outside of my biased opinion, I think three whole days in the city is enough to get the vibe. You will want to return, but any more time and you will have seen most of what's on offer.
The Best Time Of The Year For Exploring the Historic Streets of Porto, Portugal
As with most of mainland Western Europe, the summer brings out the best in Porto.
The flowers are fragrant and colourful and dance around the sun's gaze, the skies are blue and the weather is warm and dry. Likewise, by avoiding the winter months of October through to February you'll have a better chance of a rain-free visit.
The rain brings slippery streets and large queues at the city's indoor attractions.
Nevertheless, these warmer, drier months do bring the crowds. Therefore, my advice is to visit Porto, Portugal in May, June or September. You'll keep the warmth and festival atmosphere, but lose some of the crowd that the height of summer brings.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Porto
When visiting Porto, Portugal, as with most of Europe's old cities, you should aim to stay within the old town.
It's where the culture, history and sublime architecture are.
However, compared to many other old European cities, such as Beziers, Riga or Palma de Mallorca, Porto's old town is vast in size. Hence, finding the perfect spot to stay is tricky.
I've stayed on both, the northern and southern banks of the Douro River.
Overall, which is best is down to you.
Are you looking to be near the port houses? If so, stay on the southern banks of the Douro.
If it's palaces and churches, then the northern banks of the river are the better location for you.
Yet, the truth behind where to stay is this... As long as you're near the impressive Ponte LuÃs I (the big beautiful arched bridge), you are in a great location to discover the rest of the city.
Finally, Porto has numerous types and styles of accommodation, including hostels, hotels and Airbnb. So, fear not, you will find accommodation in Porto that suits you.
So let's look at one of the two places I've stayed and recommend, as I don't recommend the other. As always, if it tickles your pickle - book it up.
House of Kharisma
- What: Beautiful apartment with a courtyard and garden bedroom
- Where: Five minutes walk south of Pont LuÃs I. (map)
- Why: Fantastic location for the north and the south of the Douro. Plus it's close to the cable cars and tram.
- Why Not: You prefer being in the heart of the old town.
On the basement level within a small block of flats, this cosy, yet perfectly put-together apartment has a wonderful kitchen diner, a relaxing living room, an impressive courtyard, a main bathroom and two beautiful double bedrooms, one with an ensuite.
One of the bedrooms is large with a lovely little ensuite off the courtyard with folding glass doors allowing the air and light in. Like the rest of the apartment, it's clean, comfortable, and has sockets and a desk.
Outdoor seating, cushions and a few shrubs add to the chilled vibes.
When we arrived, the host had left us a bottle of wine, coffee and a few other bits. I'd happily book here again.
The only downside is that the wifi didn't reach the garden bedroom. Other than that, perfect.
Further Accommodation
If you don't like the look of my suggestion, I have thrown in three links to accommodation in Porto, Portugal.
As mentioned above, if you want to be in the mix of everything, staying somewhere near the river (north or south bank) is where you'll need to be.
Equally important is your fitness. Porto is extremely hilly. Hence, if you find walking difficult, you will want to stay near the activities that interest you best.
In conclusion, if there's a small group of you, Airbnb will probably work out cheaper. However, if you're backpacking Porto solo, then Hostelworld is where you need to be looking.
Best Things to do in Porto, Portugal
Firstly, and most importantly, Porto is bloody hilly, and if it's raining, it's deadly.
Hence, before we look at the best things to do in Porto, I'll tell you to wear comfy shoes. The cobbles mixed with the hills can be tricky.
However, that's where the bad news ends.
Porto's best attractions are within walking distance and tend to centre around the old town. Even if you don't want to walk, there are great trams, extremely cheap taxis, if you use the Bolt app and a cheeky water taxi, should you not want to walk back and forth across the bridge a few times a day.
Also, if you are on the south bank of the Douro and want to get to the top of Pont LuÃs Bridge or the Jardim do Morro or visa versa, the cable car is €7 one-way or €10 return.
In truth, Porto can be as busy or as chilled as you want it to be.
If you want to explore and find numerous things to do, Porto will provide it. However, Porto is more about architecture, chilled vibes, enjoying the labyrinth of interesting streets, and a cold beer with a pastel de nata in the sun.
Now that's out the way, let's look at my highlights of Porto, based on my previous visits, the most recent being May 2024.
Discovering Porto, Portugal: The Highlights
- Jump Aboard A River Cruise on the Douro
- Enjoy a Port Tasting Experience
- Take in the Views From LuÃs I Bridge
- Uncover as Many of the Port Houses as Possible
- Sample the produce at Mercado do Bolhão
- Relax in the Stunning São Roque Gardens
- Become a bookworm at Livraria Lello
- Discover the History of Porto Cathedral
- Check out Porto São Bento
Jump Aboard a River Cruise
- Why: Because it's peaceful and fun. Plus, you'll see the beautiful Douro Valley flanked by grape terraces.
- Where: On the northern banks of the Douro near the Museu do Vinho do Porto. (map)
- How long: This depends on which cruise you take. The one I did was a full day.
- How much: Again, this depends on which cruise you take. However, the day tour with Rota do Douro costs €88 (£75).
Numerous companies offer various cruises up, down and around the Douro River. Some are a few hours, others days and some are a couple of days. Likewise, some serve food, some don't, some set sail during the morning, and others at sunset.
My advice is that you do at least one. Which one you choose is up to you. After all, I think it's one of the best things to do in Porto, Portugal.
I've been lucky enough to take the day trip with Rota do Douro, through the Douro Valley to a little village called Pinhão.
During sunrise, the river is a cloud of mist and acts like a mystical creature engulfing everything it sees, but when it clears, the valleys appear in a dazzling display of beauty. Then, as the sun sets, the river turns orange, and the valley takes on a whole new vibe.
It's a great experience meandering through the vineyards and under countless bridges. Even more so, knowing you'll end up back in the stunning city of Porto.
Enjoy a Port Tasting Experience
- Why: Port, Port, Port, I love port.
- Where: Several porthouses run tasting sessions. You choose. (map)
- How long: As a guideline, give yourself an hour.
- How much: It depends on who you go with and how many ports you taste. Prices range from around €22 to €70 (£19 to £59).
People say, when in Rome?
Well, this is that activity for Porto.
If you visit Porto, Portugal and don't participate in at least one port-tasting session, you haven't been to Porto.
Numerous port houses on the southern banks of the Douro offer small tasting sessions. I've been lucky enough to try Taylor's, Cockburns and Sandeman's, and each has added a unique twist or location to the session. All are held within the porthouses, so you get that full aroma and atmosphere with each tasting experience.
Each porthouse offers a variety of tasting sessions, so book the one that suits you best. Personally, if it makes any difference to you, the six glasses tasting at Cockburns was the best tasting, whilst Taylors was the best overall experience.
If you want more than a quick tasting session, don't forget to add a tour to your day. Also if you cannot get enough of port, you can dive head-first into the port experience and visit the vineyards too.
Uncover as Many of the Port Houses as Possible
- Why: Learning how port is picked, processed and bottled is interesting, especially within the beautiful port houses of Porto.
- Where: As with the tasting, it depends on who you go with, Cockburns, Sandemans and Taylors are all great. (map)
- How long: Again, it depends on who you go with, but an hour should be grand.
- How much: Likewise, prices vary, but you should expect to pay between €20 - €30 (£17 - £25.50).
As above, when visiting Porto, get your ass on a tour of the port houses. Again, I've done three, Cockburn, Taylor's and Sandeman's and recommend them all.
Whilst similar, in the sense that you learn about the grapes, the vineyards, the Douro Valley and years and years of development and process, and you explore the extensive dark, cool rooms, all filled to the brim with large vats and other accessories. Each tour is different.
The vibe, the style and the energy differ. I found Cockburn's to be more suave, whilst Taylor's was more peaceful and relaxing, and Sandeman's more universal.
Each port has a history and a story to tell, and discovering what makes each vintage unique is fun and interesting. Even if you don't like port, you will find the tours fascinating.
You've come this far, so you may as well hit up the tasting rooms.
Take in the Views From Luis I Bridge
- Why: Frankly, the views are stunning, especially during golden hour.
- Where: Well, it's that big bridge you see over the river. (map)
- How long: You will only need fifteen minutes or so.
- How much: Ummm, it's free to look.
With Porto being so hilly and with a river running through it, it is only inevitable that, at some point, there's a bridge.
Luckily, there is.
Pont LuÃs I is one of the more spectacular bridges I've encountered, only beaten into third place by San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and Sydney's Harbour Bridge.
There are two levels in which you can cross on foot. Firstly, down at the river. Secondly, across the top with the trams. Once you conquer your fear of heights and cross the windswept summit, you will be rewarded with views to die for (phrasing, I know).
Looking down over the Douro and the old town of Porto is spectacular in every sense. The unique and colourful buildings, the dancing river and the greenery all come to life.
However, the best time is during sunrise and sunset. The early morning mist fills the intense cool air adding drama and edge to the city. Then as the sun goes down, the golden glow brings Porto to life, like a fire in the night sky, and my god, it's beautiful.
Sample the produce at Mercado do Bolhao
- Why: Fresh tasty and colourful produce... Need I say more?
- Where: Just east of Porto City Hall. (map)
- How long: No more than an hour.
- How much: As you'd expect, it's free to enter. But, how much you spend is up to you.
If you're an avid reader of my travel blogs you will know I love a food market, and this is no different.
Whilst this will never win awards, it is worth a stop during your visit to Porto, Portugal.
Sublime tourist crafts and gifts mix with the expected fragrances of straight-out-of-the-sea foods, fresh baked goods and colourful fruits and juices.
It's an aroma that tackles all the senses - but in a good way.
World foods are served around the market and, of course, there's wine and beer galore.
The market is more than a market, it's a place for social gatherings with numerous seats and benches and areas to sit, relax, eat and drink away from the mayhem of the city.
Relax in the Stunning Sao Roque Gardens
- Why: Every city break needs that peace, amid beautiful green gardens.
- Where: Next to Porto FC's stadium (Estádio do Dragão). (map)
- How long: If it's a nice day, take a picnic and make a half day of it.
- How much: The gardens are free to explore at your leisure when open.
Despite being a little way from the old town, you can easily reach São Roque Gardens for a few euros in a Bolt taxi. Similarly, you can walk the forty-fives from Pont LuÃs I.
This was one of the biggest shocks I had during my most recent visit to Porto, as I never thought I'd enjoy it as much as I did.
São Roque Gardens has a beautiful variation of styles, ranging from a manor house garden, with fountains, lawns, rock features, tree-lined pathways and a gorgeous pergola to wild woodlands with walkways and onto a fun maze, parks and lunch areas.
However, all parts of the park are insanely peaceful, colourful and aromatic.
The additional touch of a fairly easy maze adds to the uniqueness of the park and makes it a must for anyone visiting Porto.
Also, the park has free toilets, yet another win.
Become a bookworm at Livraria Lello
- Why: The style and drama of the bookshop are epic, even if you're not into reading. I'm not, but I do admit it has a charm.
- Where: In the Praça de Lisboa, next to Torre dos Clérigos (map).
- How long: I'll ask another question or two. How much do you like books and how much do you enjoy your personal space?
- How much: A little excessive if you ask me, but €8 (£6.90), or you can skip the queue for €15.90 (£13.65).
Ok, disclaimer alert! I'm not fond of reading and have never enjoyed bookshops or crowds... Hence, this is a bit of hell for me.
Anyway, the self-proclaimed 'most beautiful bookshop in the world' title is hard for me to argue with, though I'm sure there are some out there who will.
So, let's address two issues. Firstly, you have to pay to go to a bookshop. This is Marketing 101, complete genius.
Secondly, it gets extremely crowded and you cannot relax or, as people tell me about books and libraries, relax with a good book. It won't happen.
That aside, if you buy one of their homemade books, the entry ticket price counts towards its value. Essentially it's making you think, I've paid for a book, or part of a book, and, therefore, may as well pay the extra towards the book, instead of making you think you've just paid to enter a shop.
My advice is to pay the extra and skip the queue. Most books are around €15 anyway, so if you're going to buy a book as a souvenir, don't wait outside like a loser. The queue is massive.
Furthermore, it is, in every sense, undeniably beautiful, and wouldn't look out of place at Hogwarts.
Hence, you should do this whilst visiting Porto, Portugal. I simply don't like the idea of paying and queuing for a bookshop.
Discover the History of Porto Cathedral
- Why: The tower provides stunning views over Porto and the architecture within is superb.
- Where: On the northern entrance to the top of Pont LuÃs I near São Bento Station. (map)
- How long: Half an hour to forty-five minutes will be about right.
- How much: A very reasonable €3 (£2.60).
Outside the main doors of the Cathedral is a small terrace where many of the walking tours end, and buskers apply their artistic touch. It, like most of Porto, has a party atmosphere to it, and I, for one, loved relaxing up there with the views down to the Douro.
Inside the exquisite Porto Cathedral, a small central courtyard takes the focus of every guest, as it is encased by four stunning arched walkways, complete with the typically Porto-like blue and white tiles and intricate pillars.
Lonesome and sombre in the centre stands a weathered decorative cross.
From the walkways, small rooms are accessible, each decorated and dressed in a distinctive style. The nave continues the vibe with numerous vast columns, undressed grey stone walls and plain style. Yet, the Apse is dripping in gold, beauty and superb elaborate design.
The upper floors provide yet more tiled walls, small rooms and views out to the city.
However, the best views come from the top of the bell tower. You've come this far, so push on and get to the top. It is worth it.
Check out Porto Sao Bento
- Why: It's a bit of a gimmick. But if I didn't mention it, someone would complain.
- Where: Just north of the Cathedral. (map)
- How long: Ten minutes should do it. Just enough time to snap a few pics.
- How much: My favourite word -Â free.
Ok, I'm not going into too much detail on this one. After all, it's a small train station. It just so happens to be a rather pretty one.
In all fairness, the platforms are fairly standard, roofed in a style you'd expect to find on an old-fashioned model railway. Thin decorative pillars lead to an opaque roof, allowing light to refract down through.
Nevertheless, step off the platforms into the waiting area and the grandeur of this small station shines through. The tiles tell stories of conquests and wars, whilst large clocks, stained glass windows and coffered ceilings bring elegance to this once-convent.
You won't stay long, but it is worth seeing during your trip to Porto, Portugal.
Where to Eat in Porto, Portugal
Porto is famed for its wines, but what people don't know is that the food is pretty darn good too.
Being on the coast, it wouldn't surprise you that Porto's most loved meals involve seafood - fish, squid, scallops, shellfish, the lot, it's all here.
Seafood is so popular, that they've even got two extremely weird and wonderful shops dedicated to cod balls and sardines here.
Don't worry if you don't like seafood, I don't, and ate very well.
During your visit to Porto, there are a few foods you need to try, here are a couple.
Firstly, francesinha is a dish that originates from Porto and I can confirm that whilst it has a unique taste, it is delicious. In effect, it is a sandwich layered in meats, and cured ham and then saturated in melted cheese and a tomato and beer sauce.
Secondlly, bolinhos de bacalhau. Yes, it's those codballs. Essentially, they are cod mashed with potato and then fried. Crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Thirdly, the perfect accompaniment to a glass of port, Serra da Estrela, a cheese from the mountains around one hundred miles south. It's beautifully soft and creamy. Get a bit of bread and lather it with this naughty cheese.
No one in Porto goes without a dessert. Cakes or pastels as they are known, are everywhere. You cannot move for the number of bakeries. So, expect to put on weight and taste a drop of Porto.
Nata Sweet Nata
- What: My wet dream. A delicious sweet shop specialising in pastel de natas.
- Where: Right under Pont LuÃs I. (map)
- How much: Well, six of these beauties and three teas cost €15.60 (£13.40), a bargain. (menu)
What's not to love?
The cutest cave-like interior, cool architecture and fantastic decor are unbeatable. Yet, outside there's stunning bridge and river views.
With a combo like that you could forgive a poor or substandard pastry. But, even the little drops of heaven (aka pastel de nata's) are perfect in every way.
Discovering this place is comparable to discovering heaps of treasure with a rusty metal detector or picking that apple from the Garden of Eden.
If you're looking for a tasty treat this is where you come. Simple as that.
Mercado Beira-Rio
- What:Â Large food hall with numerous venues and indoor and outdoor seating.
- Where: Opposite the road from the cable cars, next to the river. (map)
- How much: It depends on what you want to eat and which stall you get it from, but it was all reasonably well priced.
It is what it says it is.
A large food hall with numerous little stalls and restaurants serving incredibly tasty and wholesome foods.
Everything from pots of fresh fruit to seafood surprises and refreshing alcoholic beverages can be found here, and frankly, if I had the time, I would have happily worked my way through most of them.
The first thing you notice when walking into the undercover market is the scent of pure perfection, followed by the noise of excited crowds chowing down on whatever they've chosen.
There's plenty of seating inside and out, so all you have to do is check out all the stalls, and once you've chosen, enjoy the flavoursome feast.
Do Norte Cafe by Hungry Biker
- What: A pet-friendly, Imstagram-lovers breakfast and brunch extraordinaire, with plenty of choice, including veggie and vegan.
- Where: Between the Igreja e Torre dos Clérigos and São Bento (map)
- How much: For a full 'Portuguese' breakfast, including tea and a yoghurt side I paid €14.62 (£12.70).
If you want to impress your mates while filling your belly with delicious food, this is the only place to come for brunch in Porto.
Never before has the phrase, Instagram cafe, been more apt to describe the venue and the food presentation. Honestly, it's like they make each dish with Insta in mind.
Uniquely, Do Norte can back up that Instagramable look with poppin' tastes, great service and chilled vibes.
In addition, the decor adds to the vibe and feel of the place, it's a pet-friendly, green, eco-loving restaurant, but without showing off. Earthy, natural materials make this place stylish. Nevertheless, it's the banging food that keeps bringing in the guests.
I can, and do, highly recommend both the pancakes and the full Portuguese breakfast with a side of yoghurt and fruits.
Cafe Guarany
- What: Artistic restaurant serving up mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes.
- Where: A few strides south of Aliados underground station overlooking the Abundância Os Meninos statue. (map)
- How much: A main course, a beer and a dessert will cost around €30 (£25.70). (menu)
Whilst it may not look like the poshest restaurant in town, there are small clues about what you can expect.
Firstly, you'll notice a few vivid, in-your-face artworks dotted around. Secondly, a piano sits in the corner, and thirdly, the waiters and waitresses dress to impress.
They say that food is an art form, yet here, food is just one part of the performance.
On my first visit, I was enjoying a flavoursome meal with the family, and we asked the pianist to play the theme tune to Game of Thrones. He looked confused and said, "I've never heard of that". He left for five minutes, returned and played the spine-tingling tune to perfection. The whole restaurant sat mouth ajar, staring in ore, without taking a single bite.
Café Guarany prides itself on serving scrumptious Mediterranean food whilst, in every form, providing a performance you will not forget.
The artwork, music and elegant waiters are fantastic, but the food still shone as the highlight of this fantastical restaurant.
Fish Fish
- What: Portuguese restaurant specialising in fish.
- Where: On the northern bank of the Douro, right next to Ponte LuÃs I. (map)
- How much: Probably the most expensive restaurant on my list, with mains ranging between €20-€35 (£17.10-£30). (menu)
If this were a fight, Fish Fish would be the best pound-for-pound boxer in Porto.
Whilst small in stature, it packs a flavoursome punch that could send Mike Tyson to the canvas.
Fish Fish has everything, top quality old'y-world'y, rustic decor, attentive and friendly staff, and, from the outdoor seating, great uninterrupted views of Pont LuÃs I and the River Douro.
Nevertheless, the food is the knock-out, with exquisite, well-presented fresh seafood. You can even find those local delicacies - Bolinhos de Bacalhau.
Let the waiters guide you through the menu, and they will pair your drinks with the dish you chose.
I can highly recommend the cod and new potatoes - and that's coming from someone who doesn't like seafood.
Cafe do Cais
- What: A chilled, riverside restaurant and bar.
- Where: On the northern bank of the Douro River near the Museu do Vinho do Porto. (map)
- How much: A bunch of starters a bottle of wine and a main cost me €53.80 (£46).
Normally, I would avoid a place like this, as it was in a touristy location, looked expensive and we had to wait to be seated.
However, I went against my rules and my god, I am so pleased I did.
The small glass restaurant, in which David Blane would have had a blast, is decorated beautifully with small trees, undercover outdoor seating, sublime lighting and, once again, stunning views of the River Douro and Pont LuÃs I.
We had a couple of bottles of wine, plenty of starters and a Porto classic - the Francesinha (pictured below). I'd highly recommend seeing out the evening here enjoying a few beverages and a selection of food.
Everything tasted fresh, clean and absolutely delicious.
Jardim do Morro (Esplanada do Teleferico)
- What: A cracking, stylish and relaxing bar turned restaurant with some of the best views in Porto.
- Where: Where the Jardim do Morro meets the bridge, above the cable cars. (map)
- How much: For a load of starters, a few cocktails and a burger and chips, I paid €50 (£43). (menu)
Lastly, but by no means least, one of the best restaurants in town, and undeniably the best views - Jardim do Morro.
Now, the first thing you want to do is come here for sunset.
Secondly, you'll want to sit along the breakfast-bar-looking table that looks over the city or an equivalent table along the back wall. That way you get the perfect view of the sunset without numerous people getting in the way.
If those seats are taken, ask if you can be put on the list to sit there, and the wonderful staff will do their best to move you when possible.
Honestly, the staff are awesome, kind, friendly, helpful, and know how to make you feel special. The music is soothing and when biting into the food or supping on a cocktail or beer, you could not be more relaxed if you tried.
However, the food and vast selection of drinks steal the show. The burger was fantastically juicy, delicious and moreish and the perfect accompaniment to a great end to the day.
Not only is this a great food place, but it's the perfect place for drinks too.
Where to Party in Porto
Luckily, I don't have to mention port in this section, I've spoken a lot about it, so other than saying the obvious - go to a port house and try a port, I will leave that there.
The city is alive with buskers, bands and the sound of joyous raucous behaviour. Hence, walking the streets of Porto, Portugal feels like one big party, and that's before you've touched a drop of alcohol.
So, when you do, it feels like you've skipped the pre-drinks and gone straight to the dancefloor at 1am.
No matter where you go in the city, you will find a bar, restaurant or club. Whether you enjoy a cultured glass of wine with a meal or cocktails with award-winning sunsets or even several beers and a boogie, Porto has it.
Below, are four bars that are all very different, yet all worthy of a visit.
However, before we look at them, I want to assure you that nightlife in Porto is as safe as anywhere I've been. Not once, did I notice anything suspicious or dodgy, and I have an eye for it, which says so much about the city.
Let your hair down and enjoy the city's buzzing atmosphere.
Overall you cannot beat the area on and around R. da Galeria de Paris. Numerous bars and clubs line the streets and it is the place to be. I also highly recommend some of the restaurants mentioned above, such as Jardim do Morro and Cafe do Cais.
But, if that doesn't ring your bell, try these on for size.
Espaco Porto Cruz
- What: Fantastic rooftop bar and dining with cracking views and a party vibe.
- Where: On the southern bank of the Douro and only a short walk west of Ponte LuÃs I. (map)
- How much: Drinks are great value - cocktails start at around €8, whilst a main meal costs €15- €25 (£12.85- £21.40). (menu)
If banging vibes are your thing, look no further than the rooftop bar at Espaco Porto Cruz.
Having been here on every visit to Porto, Portugal, I can only say good things.
Unsurprisingly, it does get busy. Yet the rooftop serves food from a 'light bites' kinda menu with a few basic but beautiful dishes. If you want more, there is a restaurant on the floor below.
The waiters and waitresses, despite being busy, are unflustered and gracefully glide around the bar. They're charming, funny and there to help the best they can. Truthfully, they have eyes like hawks. If your glass is empty, they'll top it up for you.
Noise levels rise as the DJ bangs out classic sunset tunes. People cover the floor, some dancing in the deep red and orange sunset skies, and others laugh and joke laid back in the comfy chairs.
If you come to Porto and don't enjoy this place - you have no hope.
Wine Quay Bar
- What:Â Small wine bar with riverside seating.
- Where: On the Douro River near the Palácio da Bolsa. (map)
Firstly, whatever you do, don't say the name of this bar quickly. Especially if you're asking someone for directions.
Secondly, sorry for only having one photo. After closer inspection, the second photo wasn't good enough for the blog. I blame the wine and I'm sticking to that excuse.
However, the bar is the perfect place to soak in the Douro air and people-watch from your elevated position over the promenade. That is if you can get an outdoor seat. There aren't many.
Sadly, I can't help with the food in this review as I only drank, but they have a small selection of snacks to go with your wine.
Nevertheless, diving into a cheeky vino is something I can happily recommend. If there is one place in Porto, Portugal that knows its wines, this is it.
Tell them what you like and they will bring you the perfect tipple to drink the afternoon away. Wine Quay Bar is a beautiful, relaxing bar overlooking the crowds and those epic Porto views.
What's not to love?
Base
- What:Â Chilled-out relaxing outdoor bar.
- Where: On the small triangular mound of grass called Praça de Lisboa, between Livraria Lello and Torre dos Clérigos. (map)
If laying out on cushions amid a peaceful well-trimmed lawn with a cold beer and the most relaxing soothing music sounds like a bit of you, you must get a drink here.
I don't recall a more tranquil location for a beer (or four), in my life... and I mean that.
The guys at Base are epic and unique and all bring a different vibe to the place. Yet, I want to give an extra shout-out to one guy, who brought more energy to the bar than a bag of pills did to a nightclub in the 60s. I wasted too much time watching him.
As well as cosy cushions on the lawn, there are tables and stylish lighting under umbrellas next to a quality, fully stocked circular bar.
Acoustic tunes gently sway in the air adding to that delicious relaxing vibe.
I love this place, and I know you will too.
Brandy’s Brunch Bar
- What: Small riverside brunch bar turned wine bar.
- Where: On the southern bank of the Douro River next to the cable cars. (map)
There isn't much to say about this one. It's small and simple, yet oddly elegant and enjoyable.
Whilst there isn't anything remarkable about it, it has a great atmosphere and fantastic staff, even if they were a little slow.
But, when you're sat with a decent wine, looking out over the river, and enjoying the sun, speed doesn't really matter.
Furthermore, there's a great selection of wines, cocktails and other alcoholic beverages. I believe they also do a happy hour where cocktails flow cheaper than water.
So, get yourself down here for that. Let me know what you think.
Is Exploring Porto, Portugal Safe?
Easy!
Yes, Porto is safe to visit for groups, solo travellers or anyone who wants to explore this magnificent city.
As with any city, crime does and can happen. However, crime figures are super low in Portugal. Even the big cities and tourist destinations of Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve are considered very low.
This is probably due to the number of police walking about. People aren't going to commit crimes when there are this many police around.
In truth, the most dangerous part of visiting Porto is walking around in the rain. The hills and uneven roads and pavements are treacherous when wet. Just ask my mate Pip.
Although with the amount of alcohol you can consume in Porto, it doesn't have to be raining to trip over these streets.
Leave a comment
Thank you for reading my travel blog to Porto, Portugal. I hope you've found it fun and informative, and has made you want to enjoy a night on the tiles.
Porto is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and I cannot urge you enough to come here. It's got that party atmosphere, insanely beautiful architecture, the weather, the food and, of course, the drink.
You simply can not, not love it.
Finally, please let me know your thoughts on my blog in the comments below. Was it useful? Did you use it to help plan your trip to Porto? Have I missed anything or do you think I've got something wrong? Let me know.
Let's raise a glass of port to life on the Douro. Cheers.
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