Porto, Portugal: Your Top Questions Answered

by Portugal Getaways Team

August 11, 2025 • 8 min read

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting This Historic City 

Planning a trip to Porto, Portugal? There is so much to see and do, from iconic tiled churches to unforgettable port wine tastings, this city on the Douro River is full of charm, history, archictecture and flavor! We answer the most common questions travelers have about Porto, including how to get around, what to eat, where to stay, and what to see and so much more.

If you're looking to truly understand what makes Porto such a special place, keep reading, you'll find everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

How Many Days Do You Need in Porto?

Three to four days is the ideal amount of time to experience the best of Porto, from its historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks to its vibrant food scene and riverside charm. If you're short on time, a weekend getaway still offers a great introduction to the city's unique character and atmosphere.

Check our travel packages to Porto

Many travelers then choose to head south by train to Lisbon. Spending 2 to 3 days in the capital is a perfect way to round out your trip, with time to enjoy Lisbon’s scenic viewpoints, lively neighborhoods, and rich cultural heritage.

Browse packages that combine Porto and Lisbon

What to Do in Porto?

Visiting Porto for a few days or planning a longer stay? This city offers countless memorable experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Porto:

• Stroll through Ribeira, the picturesque riverfront neighborhood and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with colorful facades and lively cafés.
• Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge, an architectural icon that links Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, offering scenic views over the Douro River.
• Tour the famous port wine cellars and enjoy a guided tasting experience in Gaia, just across the river.
• Admire the azulejos (painted tiles) at São Bento Station and the nearby Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, two of the city’s most stunning landmarks.
• Step inside Palácio da Bolsa, the grand 19th-century stock exchange palace with its ornate Arab Room and neoclassical architecture.
• Enjoy a live performance at Casa da Música, Porto’s modern concert hall and cultural hub, known for its bold design and world-class performances.
• Visit Lello Bookstore, one of the world’s most beautiful, known for its ornate staircase and neo-Gothic charm. Tickets should be purchased in advance, especially the skip-the-line option during peak seasons, you can buy it directly on the bookstore’s official website.

What to Do in Porto for 3 Days?

Here’s a simple 3-day itinerary with some of the city’s top highlights, perfect if it’s your first time and you want to take in the best of its charm, culture, and food.

You can discover Porto’s top attractions in just 3 days. Check them out here.

Day 1: Riversides and First Impressions

• Walk around Ribeira, the historic riverside neighborhood known for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and beautiful views of the Douro River.
• Visit Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), one of the oldest landmarks in the city, then make your way down the narrow streets toward the water.
• Have dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant and try local favorites like bacalhau à Brás or a hearty francesinha sandwich.

Day 2: Culture and History in the City Center

• Tour Palácio da Bolsa, a grand 19th-century building with stunning rooms and unique architecture, including the famous Arab Room.
• Go up the Clérigos Tower for one of the best views in Porto, and take a look inside the baroque church next to it.
• Stop by Mercado do Bolhão, a central market where you can try Portuguese cheeses, smoked meats, and sweet pastries.

Day 3: Views, Wine & Shopping

• Join a boat tour on the Douro River, then cross to Vila Nova de Gaia to explore the World of Wine (WOW) district or visit the Port Wine Museum.
• Walk along Rua de Santa Catarina, the city’s main shopping street, filled with local shops, boutiques, and iconic cafés like Café Majestic.
• Watch the sunset from Virtudes Garden or Jardim do Morro, two of the best spots in Porto to end the day with stunning views.

Thinking of spending more than just 3 days in Porto? Discover how to make the most of a 6-day stay in this vibrant city.

Click here to browse our 6-day fly & stay package for Porto.

What to See in Porto?

Porto district is full of eye-catching spots that blend history, art, and culture. Here are some of the must-see places during your visit:

• Carmo Church: Admire the striking azulejo-covered façade of this beautiful 18th-century church, known for its baroque design and the narrow hidden house between it and the neighboring church.
• São João National Theatre: Catch a glimpse of Porto’s cultural life at this historic theater, which hosts plays, performances, and festivals in a stunning neoclassical building.
• São Bento Railway Station: Even if you’re not taking a train, step inside to see the iconic tile panels that depict scenes from Portugal’s history; it's one of the city’s most photographed spots.
• Port Wine Lodges in Gaia: Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to visit the famous wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can tour, taste, and learn all about Porto’s most iconic export.

You can also check out the must-see sights and viewpoints here.

Where to Stay in Porto?

The city has several neighborhoods that each offer something different, from scenic views to lively nightlife. Here are some of the best areas to stay:

• Ribeira: Perfect for first-time visitors, this historic riverside district is full of charm. You'll be close to the Douro River, picturesque streets, and plenty of cafés with views.
• Boavista: A quieter area that’s home to Casa da Música and several museums. Great for those who enjoy culture and want to stay just outside the busiest parts of the city.
• Cedofeita and Baixa: Trendy neighborhoods filled with restaurants, bars, and galleries. Ideal if you want to be in the heart of the action and enjoy Porto’s nightlife.

Tip: Hotels in Porto fill up fast during the summer months, so it’s a good idea to book your stay early, especially in central locations.

What to Eat in Porto?

Porto’s food scene is bold, hearty, and full of character, a true reflection of the city itself. Here are a few must-try dishes that locals are proud of:

• Francesinha: A legendary sandwich layered with meats, melted cheese, and a rich beer-based sauce. Comfort food at its finest.
• Tripas à moda do Porto: A traditional tripe stew with white beans, sausage, and slow-cooked flavors, a dish deeply tied to the city’s history.
• Fresh seafood & grilled sardines: Simple, flavorful, and best enjoyed at a riverside table with a glass of vinho verde.

For authentic flavors, explore the family-run restaurants in Ribeira or across the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia, where tradition meets unbeatable views.

Discover more must-try dishes you shouldn’t miss while in Porto.

What to Buy in Porto?

Looking for the perfect souvenir from Porto? The city is full of locally made products that reflect Portuguese tradition, craftsmanship, and regional pride. Here are some of the most popular items to bring home:

• Port wine: The city’s signature export, available directly from cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
• Handmade cork products: Eco-friendly bags, wallets, and accessories made from Portugal’s famous cork.
• Ceramic azulejos: Decorative tiles featuring traditional patterns and blue-and-white designs.
• Portuguese soaps and textiles: High-quality soaps, embroidered linens, and towels made with care.

Is Porto an Expensive City?

Porto is relatively affordable compared to many other European cities.

• Food is budget-friendly, You can enjoy a traditional meal for under €15 ($16) per person?
• Public transport is cheap and reliable, with metro tickets starting around €1.30 ($1.40) per person?
• Most attractions cost under €10 ($11), and some are free on select days.
• Port wine tastings are good value, with experiences starting at about €20 ($21), often including a guided tour.

Tip: Join a free walking tour and explore on foot; many of Porto’s best experiences don’t cost a thing.

What Is Porto Known For?

Some of the city’s most iconic features include:

• Port wine: The city’s most famous export, aged in cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia.
• Dom Luís I Bridge: A striking double-deck iron bridge that has become a symbol of the city.
• Porto Cathedral and azulejo tiles: Historic landmarks decorated with the traditional blue-and-white Portuguese tiles.
• Warm hospitality: Friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere make Porto especially welcoming to visitors.
• Historic squares and riverside views: From Ribeira’s colorful facades to panoramic spots overlooking the Douro River.

These are just a few of the reasons Porto leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits. Discover Porto’s historical and artistic architecture here.

What Is the Weather Like in Porto?

Porto has a mild Atlantic climate, with cool, wet winters and warm, sunny summers. Temperatures in winter usually stay above 10°C (50°F), while summer days often reach 25–30°C (77–86°F), especially in July and August.

The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, the landscapes are lush, and the city is less crowded, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor dining.

Check here to discover more about Porto’s weather.

What Time Is It in Porto?

Porto follows the Western European Time Zone (WET), the same as Lisbon and London. From late March to late October, it observes daylight saving time, shifting to Western European Summer Time (WEST), which is UTC +1.

The rest of the year, Porto operates on UTC +0. Make sure to check the current local time if you're planning calls, flights, or connections.

What Airlines Fly to Porto, Portugal?

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), Porto’s international airport, is well connected to major cities across Europe and beyond. Several airlines operate direct flights to Porto, including:

• TAP Air Portugal: the national carrier with direct routes from North America, Brazil, and across Europe. 
• United Airlines: offering direct flights from Newark (EWR) to Porto.
• Ryanair and EasyJet: offering frequent low-cost flights from cities across the UK and mainland Europe.
• Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and Iberia: connecting Porto to major European hubs with options for long-haul connections.

There are direct flights to Porto from destinations in Western Europe, the UK, North America (including New York and Toronto), and Brazil, making it an accessible entry point to northern Portugal.

How Long Is the Train from Lisbon to Porto?

The train journey from Lisbon to Porto takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the service you choose. The Alfa Pendular is the fastest and most comfortable option, with frequent daily departures from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations and arrival at Porto’s Campanhã station.

Trains are modern, equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and food service, making them an easy and scenic way to travel through central Portugal’s countryside. It's a popular choice for travelers who want a smooth and relaxing journey between the two cities.

Alternatively, you can drive the route in about 3 hours via the A1 highway, or take a short flight, though airport procedures often make the train more time-efficient overall.

Learn how to get to Porto here.

How to Get from Porto to the Douro Valley?

The Douro Valley is definitely one of the most stunning regions in Portugal, and getting there from Porto is easy. Here are the best ways to reach it:

• By train: Depart from São Bento or Campanhã Station for a scenic ride to Peso da Régua or Pinhão, passing through beautiful river landscapes along the way.
• By car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to stop at viewpoints, small villages, and wine estates. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and the route is as memorable as the destination.
• With a guided tour: A hassle-free option that often includes transport, winery visits, tastings, and sometimes even a river cruise. Perfect for a day trip without the need to plan logistics.

No matter how you choose to travel, the views along the Douro River are truly unforgettable, especially as you approach the heart of Portugal’s wine country.

Ready to Discover Porto?

Porto is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave, and now that you know what makes it so special, it’s time to start planning your trip.

Take a look at our Porto travel packages below and find the one that’s right for you.