Porto is not just a city—it’s a feeling. Nestled along the Douro River in northern Portugal, this soulful city captures the hearts of wanderers with its rich history, charming alleys, and an ever-present scent of sea breeze and sweet port wine. If you’re the kind of traveler who seeks more than a checklist, this Must Do In Porto guide was made for you. Whether you’re a dreamer enchanted by tiled facades, a storyteller chasing the next great moment, or an explorer ready to lose yourself in cobbled streets, Porto is waiting to reveal its magic.
Discover the Soul of Porto in Ribeira
The historic district of Ribeira is the perfect place to begin your Must Do In Porto journey. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ribeira captures the soul of the city with its pastel buildings, narrow streets, and a promenade that hugs the Douro River. Stroll along the Cais da Ribeira, watch boats glide across the water, and listen to the echoes of Fado music from nearby taverns. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and feel the rhythm of local life.
Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge at Sunset
No Must Do In Porto experience is complete without crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this two-level iron bridge connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. Time your walk around sunset, and you’ll witness golden light spilling across the terracotta rooftops, creating a cinematic view that feels almost unreal. Photographers and dreamers alike will find this moment unforgettable.
Sip Port Wine in Gaia’s Historic Cellars
One of the ultimate Must Do In Porto experiences is discovering the roots of the city’s namesake wine. Cross the bridge into Gaia and tour iconic wine cellars like Graham’s, Sandeman, and Cálem. These atmospheric warehouses offer tastings that walk you through the region’s winemaking traditions. It’s more than just a drink—it’s a story in a glass, shaped by generations.
Get Lost in the Livraria Lello
Even if you’re not a literature lover, the Livraria Lello is a Must Do In Porto destination. This neo-Gothic bookstore, known for inspiring J.K. Rowling’s vision of Hogwarts, is an architectural wonder. The stained-glass ceiling, swirling staircase, and shelves brimming with books make it a temple for imagination. Arrive early to beat the crowds, and let the quiet charm of stories transport you.
Climb the Torre dos Clérigos
For panoramic views of Porto’s rolling rooftops and winding streets, climbing the Torre dos Clérigos is a Must Do In Porto moment. This baroque bell tower rises above the city and offers one of the best vantage points. It’s a short climb—225 steps—but the reward is immense. From the top, Porto unfolds in a mosaic of color and charm, revealing hidden courtyards and cathedral spires.
Feast at Mercado do Bolhão
To taste Porto is to understand it. That’s why the Mercado do Bolhão ranks high on any Must Do In Porto list. This historic market is a sensory delight, brimming with fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and handcrafted goods. Interact with local vendors, try a warm pastel de nata, and let the market’s vibrant atmosphere draw you in. It’s a living postcard of everyday life in the city.
Take a Cruise Along the Douro River
A river cruise is a Must Do In Porto for anyone wanting a different perspective of the city. Whether you opt for a short six-bridge tour or a full-day journey upriver into the Douro Valley, the views are mesmerizing. Watch the city shift and shimmer as you glide beneath its famed bridges, past colorful facades and vine-covered hills.
Experience a Night of Fado
Fado isn’t just music—it’s emotion in its rawest form. Experiencing a live Fado performance is a Must Do In Porto that touches the soul. Seek out intimate venues like Casa da Mariquinhas or Ideal Clube de Fado. With dim lighting, heartfelt vocals, and melancholic guitar, you’ll feel connected to Portugal’s cultural heartbeat.
Wander the Streets of Foz do Douro
For explorers craving coastal charm, a walk through Foz do Douro is a Must Do In Porto experience. Where the river meets the Atlantic, you’ll find scenic promenades, quiet beaches, and chic cafés. Rent a bike or take a tram from the city center and discover a more tranquil, refined side of Porto.
Visit the Church of São Francisco
Another Must Do In Porto is the awe-inspiring Church of São Francisco. From the outside, it may look modest, but step inside and you’ll be greeted with an explosion of baroque gold. Every inch of the interior is adorned with intricate woodwork and symbolism, making it one of Porto’s most stunning (and surprising) historical sites.
Admire Azulejos at São Bento Station
Azulejos—the iconic blue and white ceramic tiles—are deeply woven into Porto’s identity. Nowhere is this more evident than at São Bento Station. As far as Must Do In Porto stops go, this is one of the most photogenic. The walls of the station depict Portugal’s history in over 20,000 painted tiles, blending artistry with storytelling.
Taste Francesinha Like a Local
When in Porto, eat like a Tripeiro. Topping the Must Do In Porto food list is the francesinha—a decadent sandwich layered with meats, smothered in cheese, and drenched in a spicy tomato-beer sauce. Locals argue endlessly about where to find the best one, but Café Santiago and Brasão are firm favorites.
Relax in the Crystal Palace Gardens
For dreamers who need a moment of stillness, the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal offer just that. Overlooking the Douro River, this green escape is a Must Do In Porto retreat. Wander past peacocks, sculptures, and flowerbeds, and let your thoughts wander as freely as the breeze.
Snap the Perfect Shot at Miradouro da Vitória
One of Porto’s lesser-known lookout points, Miradouro da Vitória is a secret worth keeping—yet it deserves a place on your Must Do In Porto list. It offers unobstructed views of the river, Gaia, and the bridge, with fewer tourists. Come at golden hour for unforgettable photos and quiet reflection.
Explore Porto’s Creative Scene in Miguel Bombarda
Art lovers, this one’s for you. The Miguel Bombarda arts district is a Must Do In Porto for anyone seeking the city’s contemporary pulse. With independent galleries, concept stores, and street art around every corner, this creative hub is proof that Porto isn’t stuck in the past—it’s boldly crafting the future.
Ride the Historic Tram No. 1
Old meets new aboard Porto’s vintage Tram No. 1. Riding this rickety vehicle from the city center to Foz is not only nostalgic but a Must Do In Porto activity that blends charm with convenience. As you trundle along the riverfront, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a slower, simpler time.
Attend a Local Festival
If your trip aligns with one of Porto’s many festivals, consider it fate. Whether it’s São João in June with fireworks and sardines, or Fantasporto, the city’s renowned film festival, joining in is a Must Do In Porto that connects you with locals in the most joyful way possible.
Savor Sunset from Jardim do Morro
Across the bridge in Gaia, the Jardim do Morro offers the best sunset views in the city. This Must Do In Porto moment is best enjoyed with a picnic and a bottle of vinho verde. As the city lights flicker on and the sky turns to gold, you’ll understand why so many fall in love with Porto and never want to leave.
Stay in a Unique Boutique Hotel
Where you stay matters. For a complete Must Do In Porto experience, choose a boutique hotel that reflects the city’s character. From tiled townhouses turned guesthouses to romantic river-view lofts, Porto offers accommodations that feel like home—with a touch of magic.
Make Porto Your Own
At the heart of every Must Do In Porto moment is something simple: connection. Whether you’re sipping wine in a cellar, capturing shadows on ancient stone, or exchanging smiles with a local vendor, each experience tells a story. And in Porto, those stories matter. They’re real, they’re raw, and they’re waiting for you.
