Things to do in 

Porto

Porto, a sprawling urban canvas brushed with history, stretches along the Douro River. The city is alive with energy, from the riverside wineries releasing sweet notes of Port to the colorful townhouses whispering tales of the past. When deciding on things to do in Porto, let the cobblestone streets lead you to unexpected delights: a panoramic sunset at the Dom Luís I Bridge, a traditional fado performance, or a quick detour to an overlooked miradouro. Embrace the seasons, because autumn and spring each reveal different sides of Porto, just as charming, just as real.

Explore Porto off the beaten path

Step aside from the checklist and chase alternative things to do that reveal quieter streets, everyday rituals, and the kind of details you only notice when you linger.

Cultural experiences: Book a hands-on tile-painting class with Gazete Azulejos in the afternoon. After dark, slip into Casa da Mariquinhas in the Sé for fado, or grab a spicy bifana at the Conga counter with late-night regulars.

Small museums and galleries: Step into Casa do Infante mid-morning to see Roman layers beneath glass floors. Then stroll to the Romantic Museum at Quinta da Macieirinha; the shaded garden is a quiet pause between rooms. On Rua de Miguel Bombarda, peek into Ó! Galeria and Kubikgallery—late afternoon is ideal when curators have time to chat.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Take the upper terraces of the Palácio de Cristal gardens just before sunset for big Douro views without the usual crowd. Earlier, pause at the Miradouro da Rua das Aldas by the cathedral and watch laundry flutter over the rooftops.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: On Rua das Flores, the Claus Porto flagship is perfect for sturdy, giftable soaps. Nearby, Comer e Chorar Por Mais stocks tinned sardines, queijo São Jorge, and cured meats—swing by late morning when counters are calm. For something soft, Burel Porto on Mouzinho da Silveira sells hardy wool scarves woven in Serra da Estrela, easy to pack for the flight home.

Popular neighbourhoods

Peel back Porto’s scenic layers by venturing into its bustling neighbourhoods. Each exiting block distils a unique blend of tradition and modernity, flavoured with Northern Portugal’s characteristic charm.

Ribeira: Stroll through Porto's historical district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore winding alleyways, colourful houses, and traditional eateries serving up classic Portuguese favourites. A riverside promenade offers views over the Douro River and the city's iconic Rabelo boats.

Vila Nova de Gaia: Take a walk on the other side of the Duoro River, famous for its wine cellars. Visit the cellars, learn about port production, and sip a few samples of the rich, fruity wine.

Baixa: Uncover the beating heart of the city in downtown Baixa. Marvel at elegant boulevards, grand plazas, and neoclassical architecture. Savour the sight of its Parisian-style cafes and talented street performers.

Foz do Douro: Feel the Atlantic breeze at the city's seaside district. Marvel at the old fortresses and lighthouses, and take a leisurely walk along the sandy beaches and seafront promenade.

Sé: Ascend into Porto’s oldest district, filled with narrow, hilly streets, medieval buildings, and offering panoramic views from the Sé Cathedral terrace.

Things to do in Porto by season

Spring: Mild days invite rambles through Ribeira and across the bridge to the lodges, with jacaranda tinting late spring. Terraces hum, and a Douro cruise feels unhurried.

Summer: Long Atlantic light sets up beach time at Foz and Matosinhos, then lively nights around Cedofeita. São João in late June turns the city playful with grilled sardines and bouncing hammers, easy fun for families and friends.

Fall: Harvest season makes Douro day trips special and cellar visits glow with new wines. Chestnut roasters scent the streets for São Martinho, a cosy pick for seniors.

Winter: Cooler, rainier days sharpen appetites for francesinha, tile-lined museums, and snug cafés, with things to do in Porto in winter leaning indoors but never dull. Christmas lights on Aliados and New Year fireworks keep the sparkle.

Count on São João on 23–24 June, Fantasporto film festival in late winter, NOS Primavera Sound in early summer at Parque da Cidade, and the student-led Queima das Fitas parades in May that colour central avenues with capes and song.