Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a destination rich in history, vibrant culture, and old-world charm. Nestled along the Douro River, it enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, pastel buildings, and soul-stirring fado music. For those who seek more than just sightseeing, uncovering the heart of this captivating city is a journey best experienced slowly and authentically. If you’re wondering what you absolutely Must Do In Porto to fully embrace its essence, this guide will lead you through the most unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s sipping Port wine, wandering historic quarters, or discovering hidden gems, these are the experiences that truly define Porto.
1. Explore the Ribeira District – The Beating Heart of Porto
One of the first things you must do in Porto is stroll through the Ribeira District. This riverside quarter is the soul of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with colorful houses, narrow alleyways, and scenic views. Take a leisurely walk along the Douro River, where traditional Rabelo boats sway gently and the famous Dom Luís I Bridge looms above. The area is lively yet timeless, offering a perfect introduction to Porto’s unique character.
As you explore, stop at one of the many cafes and watch daily life unfold. Capturing the rhythm of Ribeira is truly something you must do in Porto to appreciate the blend of old traditions and contemporary energy that defines the city.
2. Visit Livraria Lello – A Portal into Literary Enchantment
Another experience you must do in Porto is visiting Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. With its neo-Gothic façade, dramatic red staircase, and ornate wooden shelves, the bookstore has become an iconic landmark. It’s rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s depiction of Hogwarts when she lived in Porto, making it a dreamlike stop for literary lovers and Harry Potter fans alike.
Despite its popularity, stepping inside Livraria Lello feels intimate and enchanting. To witness the intersection of art, literature, and architecture, this is an experience you simply must do in Porto.
3. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge – For a Breathtaking Perspective
A defining feature of the cityscape, the Dom Luís I Bridge is something you must do in Porto, whether on foot or via the Metro. Spanning the Douro River and connecting Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, the bridge offers unparalleled views of both cities.
Walking the upper level provides panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and the river below. Especially magical at sunset, crossing this bridge is a moment you must do in Porto to feel the poetic grandeur of the city.
4. Tour the Historic Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
Porto and Port wine are inseparable, and no trip is complete without a deep dive into its rich wine culture. Visiting the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia is an absolute must do in Porto. Houses like Graham’s, Taylor’s, and Sandeman offer insightful tours into the production process and, of course, guided tastings of their finest blends.
These cellars, nestled in cool stone buildings, hold centuries of history and tradition. Sampling vintage Port while overlooking the Douro River is a sensory experience you must do in Porto to truly savor its legacy.
5. Discover the Azulejos at São Bento Station
Art is everywhere in Porto, but some of the most breathtaking works can be found in the most unexpected places. A visit to São Bento Railway Station is something you must do in Porto for a visual feast of azulejos, the traditional hand-painted tiles that tell tales of Portuguese history.
The station’s grand hall is adorned with over 20,000 azulejos depicting battles, rural scenes, and royal processions. This blend of functionality and artistry makes the station not just a transport hub, but a cultural landmark—one you must do in Porto to grasp its artistic soul.
6. Climb the Clérigos Tower – A Sky-High Viewpoint
If you want to see Porto from above, climbing the Clérigos Tower is a must do in Porto. Standing at 75 meters high, this baroque bell tower offers a 360-degree view of the city’s rooftops, cathedrals, and the winding Douro River.
The climb is steep, but the reward is immense. From this vantage point, you get a new appreciation for the city’s layered architecture and undulating landscape. To truly see the grandeur of Porto from the sky, this is one thing you must do in Porto without hesitation.
7. Indulge in Francesinha – Porto’s Signature Dish
No list of what you must do in Porto is complete without mentioning the legendary Francesinha. This decadent sandwich, made with layers of cured meats, steak, and melted cheese drenched in a spicy beer-based sauce, is a culinary icon.
Head to local favorites like Café Santiago or Brasão to try the most authentic versions. Whether you love bold flavors or just want to taste something uniquely Porto, this indulgence is a food experience you must do in Porto to understand its bold and hearty cuisine.
8. Wander through the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
For a peaceful retreat, a stroll through the Crystal Palace Gardens is a must do in Porto. These beautifully landscaped gardens offer sweeping views of the Douro River, romantic pathways, and vibrant peacocks roaming freely.
Locals and travelers alike come here to relax, read, or simply enjoy nature in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for quiet charm, this is something you must do in Porto to reconnect with serenity amid the urban buzz.
9. Experience the Mercado do Bolhão – The Pulse of Local Life
To get a taste of everyday life in Porto, visiting Mercado do Bolhão is something you must do in Porto. This historic market is a feast for the senses, offering fresh produce, flowers, seafood, and traditional goods sold by generations of local vendors.
More than just a shopping spot, it’s a cultural immersion. Conversations flow, smells of grilled sardines linger in the air, and the atmosphere is genuinely welcoming. Engaging with the local community here is a human moment you must do in Porto.
10. Take a Douro River Cruise – Float Through Porto’s Legacy
Finally, one of the most relaxing and picturesque things you must do in Porto is take a cruise along the Douro River. Whether you choose a short 6-bridge tour or a day-long journey into the Douro Valley’s wine country, the perspective from the water is unforgettable.
As the boat glides past centuries-old architecture and vineyard-covered hills, the timeless beauty of Porto reveals itself fully. To experience the city’s essence in motion, this is a must do in Porto that leaves a lasting impression.
11. Explore Foz do Douro – Where the River Meets the Ocean
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Foz do Douro is a peaceful coastal neighborhood that’s a must do in Porto for anyone seeking sea breezes and Atlantic views. Walk along the promenade, enjoy a coffee by the lighthouse, or dip your feet in the ocean.
Unlike the bustling center, Foz offers a laid-back, romantic atmosphere. The fusion of city life and oceanfront beauty here is an essential contrast you must do in Porto to appreciate its diversity.
12. Visit the Church of São Francisco – Gothic Grandeur and Gilded Interiors
A visit to the Church of São Francisco is a must do in Porto for those intrigued by sacred art and dramatic interiors. From the outside, it appears modest, but step inside and you’ll be awestruck by the intricate wood carvings covered in gold leaf.
The hauntingly beautiful crypt below the church adds depth to the experience, making it a historical and spiritual exploration you must do in Porto.
Conclusion: Let Porto Reveal Itself Through Authentic Experiences
There’s no shortage of landmarks, dishes, or photo-worthy spots in this enchanting city. But what truly defines your visit are the authentic moments and stories behind them. From walking ancient streets and tasting iconic dishes to connecting with locals and soaking in river views, each “must do in Porto” on this list offers a glimpse into the city’s timeless charm.
To capture the heart of Porto, don’t just visit—immerse. Let it reveal itself one experience at a time, and you’ll leave not just with memories, but with a lasting connection to its soul. And that, above all else, is the must do in Porto that truly matters.