Welcome to Porto!
Each page opens with an inspirational video. If you have the time, sit back and enjoy. These filmmakers have an incredible passion for travel and we want to share their talent. After watching, we hope to give you a reason to read on….
*Video Plays Once~Click 1X to Pause
About Porto
Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal. It has a population of over 230,000 people. The entire metropolitan area has about 1.7 million people. It is located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. In 1996 the area was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The name comes from Latin roots which mean port or harbor. Port wine is a main export of Porto. It is a fortified wine that tends to be sweet and often used as a dessert wine.
The area in the north is affected by cooler temperatures and rain compared to the south. There are many charming neighborhoods in Porto. The most popular neighborhood is called Ribeira. There are many quaint restaurants and cafes which run along the Douro River. It is the most colorful, lively area of Porto. Baixa is the downtown area that sits right next to Ribeira. The architecture and history is something to see. Pergola do Foz is an area right along the coast. The beaches and the bars create a relaxing atmosphere. Miragaia is another colorful neighborhood near Ribeira and also near the river. (Wikipedia: Porto)
Porto offers a rich history and connection to a fortified wine, called Port. You can visit port wine cellars, dozens of historic churches, and world heritage sites. Its architecture is a mix of gothic, baroque and modernist styles. The Old Town offers an authentic charm and is not to be missed.
A special thank you to Mikhail Proskalov who is an incredible filmmaker. Like the Lisbon video, he makes you feel, with sights and sounds, like you are right there in Porto. Be sure to check out more videos on his YouTube Channel. He is one of the most inspiring travel film makers in the industry. Be sure. to click Visit Porto for their Official Travel site.
City Planning Guide
Maps & Other Resources
Visit the website: GPS My City for many self-guided walks for you to explore. These maps cover everything from historical landmarks to world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and shopping. Click Explore Maps below to help you determine the best route. You can also download their app to use off line~for Apple HERE & Google Play HERE.
Google Map with Customized Markers
Eat, Play & Stay
For some of our top recommendations and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, check out the slider below. We have vetted these based on past stays or future bucket list options. There are many other choices that fit each style and taste, so be sure to click the additional links below to narrow down options on things to do, and where to eat & stay.
Feel free to click on the slider or the icon at the top right to stop the slide and the arrow to continue.
Located in the Historic Zone of Porto, “Ribeira” considered a World Heritage Site, and possibly the most famous tourist attraction in Portugal, Vinhas D'Alho serves lunches and dinners inspired by Traditional Portuguese Cuisine.
If you are looking for a wonderful musical experience in Porto, along with a wonderful meal, this place is for you! Taberno do Real offers Fado performances and amazing food choices. Try to catch a Fado show while visiting Porto for an amazing look at the Portuguese culture and history.
It is unusual you find a place that has all 5's for reviews! This tavern is so quaint and colorful. The food is authentic and affordable. It is truly a hidden gem in Porto!
São Bento (Saint Benedict) Train Station is located in the Historic Centre of Porto, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as a National Monument of Portugal. This building began construction in 1904, based on plans by architect José Marques da Silva. The large panels of azulejo tile were designed and painted by Jorge Colaço; they were completed in 1916 and the station was then inaugurated.
We always like to find a boating experience when visiting a city on a body of water. It is great to get a different perspective. This Airbnb experience is a terrific choice. This sailing experience by Pedro is worth looking into! Check out other Airbnb experiences a well.
If you have been on our other pages, you will know about "With Locals". We LOVE this tour group. They work with the very best local guides who share their passion about food, history, and culture. These are incredibly affordable tours, especially because they are private and customized to you. If you are visiting a new location, look them up first as you won't be disappointed.
Another great apartment located right on the river is Mo House. The reviews are incredible and it is very reasonable as well! There are many great options with Booking.com
This AirBNB Apartment is in the center of Porto with a lovely view of the river and a stunning balcony! So affordable. If you can find a flt on the river, it is worth it!
There are some terrific choices for guest houses in Porto. Narrow down your choices on Booking.com. One of our favorite guest houses is Torel 1884. The decor is incredible. Take a look at this location. The reviews are amazing as well.
For the most comprehensive travel guides out there, click Trip Savvy and Culture Trip below! These travel sites hire local writers and expert travelers to share the most relevant articles and best tips in the industry! Branding belongs to each respecitve company.
Get Your Guide Options
Local Spotlight
In the Mood
for Porto Part I
This is a “must watch” video. Janz Anton-Iago left his desk job and moved to Lisbon. You may have seen him on our Lisbon and Algarve pages. He is that good! Follow him! He will inspire you.
In the Mood
for Porto Part II
We guarantee you will be hooked after the first video By far, Janz is one of the best storytellers and videographers. He always inspires. We want everyone to see his work!
Frederico Alves
Frederico Alves is a great resource for all things Portugal. You may have seen him on our other pages but here he takes us on a trip to Porto and shares some great tips.
Amatuer Traveler
Travel to Porto
Hear about travel to Porto, Portugal as the Amateur Traveler talks to João Reis and Sara Silva from nofootprintnomads.com about their home city.
More on Porto...
World Wild Hearts
Zac and Ine from World Wild Hearts share their favorite spots in Porto. We just love this couple who travel the world full time and provide some of the best tips in each location. We found them when researching Mykonos and so glad we did! Do check out their blog by clicking Explore More and finding more helpful videos on Portugal and beyond!
In the 1600s British merchants visited Port and came across a unique fortified sweet wine produced by monks. The Cockburn family from Scotland set up production in Porto and the winery is in production today. You can visit for a tour and wine tasting.
Highly rated on Tripadvisor. Check out this tour company that offers a free walking tour in Porto. Of course, the guides rely on tipping so keep that in mind. The Port Wine Tour is about $35pp and takes you to some Port Wineries in the area. A walking tour is a great way to learn from an expert about the history, neighborhoods and tips for restaurants and bars.
Day Trip Excursion : Douro Valley
also view Douro Valley tab for more info..
We highly recommend a tour through the vineyard in Duoro Valley. Why not let someone do the driving? Plus you will get a local perspective. Janz who you may have met from the videos above, recommends EV Portugal Tours with a Tesla. Check out pricing and availability below.
Quinta do Tedo
This is a “must visit” for the day or a few nights. The Douro Valley is about 90 minutes from Porto and filled with many gorgeous wineries. Quinta do Tedo is one of the very best! they offer lovely, affordable overnight accommodation and tours and tastings with incredible views of the river and valley.
Virtual Walking Tour ~ Porto
by Pop Travel
Additional Blog Posts
