Things to Do in Porto: Food, Views, and River Walks

If you are planning a trip to Portugal, you are likely searching for the best things to do in Porto. We had the same question before our visit. Porto is charming, simple to walk around, and full of history. It mixes old streets, river views, tiled buildings, and great food in one compact city.

At The Tourists World, we focus on real experiences, easy planning, and practical tips. In this post, we share the top things to do in Porto based on what travelers search for most and what truly makes the city special. We also include helpful answers to common questions so you can plan with confidence.

Why Visit Porto in the First Place?

Before listing activities, let’s answer a common search question: Is Porto worth visiting?

Yes, it is. Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon, but it feels more relaxed. The city sits along the Douro River and is famous for port wine, blue-tiled churches, and scenic viewpoints.

According to Turismo de Portugal, Porto’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That means the area has global cultural value. You can feel this as you walk through narrow streets and see old houses leaning slightly with time.

We love Porto because it is:

• Walkable and easy to navigate

• Full of local food spots

• Rich in history but not overwhelming

• Perfect for 2–3 days

Now, let’s look at the best things to do in Porto step by step.

Walk Through Ribeira and the Douro Riverfront

Visit Livraria Lello and Clérigos Tower

When people search for things to do in Porto, two names appear again and again: Livraria Lello and Clérigos Tower.

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It opened in 1906. The wooden staircase inside curves in a dramatic shape. Many people say it inspired parts of Harry Potter and if you’re interested in more Harry Potter-related history and places like this, you can check out this article on Alnwick Castle and its gardens although the connection to Harry Potter at Lello itself is debated.

You need to buy a ticket to enter. However, the ticket cost can be used toward a book purchase. We recommend booking online in advance because lines can get long.

Clérigos Tower

Right nearby, you will find Clérigos Tower. If you climb the 200+ steps to the top, you get one of the best views in the city. The tower was completed in 1763 and is a key symbol of Porto’s skyline.

If you are short on time, choose the tower for the view. If you love books and architecture, add the bookstore too.

See the Blue Tiles at São Bento Station

Another must on any list of things to do in Porto is São Bento Railway Station.

This is not just a train station. Inside, you will see over 20,000 blue and white tiles called azulejos. They show scenes from Portuguese history, including battles and royal events.

The tiles were completed in the early 20th century by artist Jorge Colaço. Even if you do not take a train, step inside. It is free to enter and easy to reach.

Travelers often ask: How long do you need at São Bento?
About 15–20 minutes is enough to admire the artwork and take photos.

We also suggest walking uphill from here toward the cathedral.

Visit Porto Cathedral and Miradouros (Viewpoints)

Porto Cathedral, also called Sé do Porto, is one of the city’s oldest monuments. Construction began in the 12th century. The building shows Romanesque and Gothic styles.

The terrace next to the cathedral offers wide views over the city and river. We think this is one of the best photo spots.

Porto is famous for its miradouros, or viewpoints. A few good ones include:

• Jardim do Morro (across the river)

• Miradouro da Vitória

• The upper deck of Dom Luís I Bridge

These places cost nothing. Yet they offer some of the best moments in the city.

Taste Port Wine in Vila Nova de Gaia

You cannot list things to do in Porto without mentioning port wine. The wine gets its name from Porto, but most cellars are located in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river.

Here you can visit historic wine houses such as Taylor’s Port and Sandeman. Many offer tours that explain how port wine is made and aged.

Port wine is fortified wine. That means extra alcohol is added during production. This gives it a sweet and strong taste. According to the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e do Porto, port wine must come from the Douro Valley region to carry the official name.

We recommend booking a tasting session in advance, especially in peak season. Even if you are not a wine expert, the experience is enjoyable and educational.

Try Local Food: What Should We Eat in Porto?

Food is a big part of the things to do in Porto experience. So what should you try?

Francesinha

This is Porto’s famous sandwich. It includes bread, steak, sausage, ham, melted cheese, and a spicy tomato-beer sauce. It is heavy but worth trying once.

Pastel de Nata

Although popular across Portugal, these custard tarts taste amazing with coffee in Porto too.

Fresh Seafood

Because Porto is near the Atlantic Ocean, seafood is fresh and common on menus.

We usually search for small, family-run restaurants away from the busiest tourist streets. Prices are fair compared to many Western European cities.

Take a Douro River Cruise or Day Trip

If you have extra time, consider a short river cruise. Many companies offer one-hour boat rides under the city’s six bridges.

For a longer experience, take a day trip into the Douro Valley. This region is known for terraced vineyards and scenic landscapes. It is one of the oldest wine regions in the world.

You can join a guided tour or travel by train. The train ride follows the river and offers beautiful views.

Travelers often ask: Is a Douro Valley day trip worth it?
Yes, especially if you enjoy nature and wine culture.

How Many Days Do We Need in Porto?

For most travelers, 2 to 3 days are enough. In that time, we can see the main sights, taste local food, and enjoy relaxed walks by the river.

If you want to add a Douro Valley trip or nearby beaches, stay 4 days.

Porto works well for:

• Weekend trips

• Romantic getaways

• Solo travel

• Slow travel lovers

That is why it continues to rank high when people search for the best things to do in Porto.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Porto

In simple words, Porto offers history, food, river views, and culture in a small and easy-to-walk setting. We can climb towers, admire blue tiles, taste port wine, and relax by the Douro all in one trip.

If you are planning your next European break, keep this list of things to do in Porto in mind. With the right mix of planning and curiosity, our time in Porto can be smooth, enjoyable, and full of meaningful moments. For more travel ideas across Europe, the UAE, and beyond, visit us at The Tourists World.

FAQs

1. What are the top things to do in Porto for first-time visitors?
Walk in Ribeira, visit Livraria Lello, climb Clérigos Tower, see São Bento Station, and try port wine in Gaia.

2. Is Porto expensive for tourists?
Porto is more affordable than many Western European cities. Food and local transport are reasonably priced.

3. Can we visit Porto without renting a car?
Yes. The city is walkable and has good public transport. You only need a car for countryside trips.

4. What is the best month to visit Porto?
May, June, and September offer good weather and fewer crowds compared to peak summer.

5. Is Porto better than Lisbon?
Both cities are great. Porto feels smaller and calmer, while Lisbon is larger and busier.

6. Are there free things to do in Porto?
Yes. Visit viewpoints, walk across Dom Luís I Bridge, see São Bento Station, and wander Ribeira for free.