Nestled in northern Portugal, Porto is a captivating city known for its delectable seafood, sweeping views of the Douro River, and charm. With colorful tiled buildings, historic streets, and world-famous port wine, Porto effortlessly blends old-world beauty with a laid-back vibe that travelers quickly fall in love with.

Traditional rabelo boats floating on the Douro River in Porto

It is one of those cities you need to see to truly understand. I honestly don't know why it isn't more popular among travelers, but maybe that's a good thing for you and I. Read on to discover the beauty and magic of the Invicta City in this guide to Porto.

Porto is Portugal's second largest city and is home to around 300,000 people. Founded in 1123, it is one of the oldest cities in Europe making for stunning old cathedrals, fascinating museums, alluring streets and more.

I hope the captivating city of Porto makes you fall in love with Portugal just like I did! Now, let's get into your Porto Travel Guide.

This post is all about your Ultimate Guide To Porto.

The Ultimate Guide to Porto

Map Of Porto

About Porto

Known for its Port Wine, Porto located in Northern Portugal. It is home to the gorgeous Douro River, stunning bridges, and viewpoints. Portugal's second largest city next to Lisbon is Porto. It is great destination if you are a budget traveler. There is so much to do in Porto, it is hard to get board. Porto, in my opinion, is one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Currency: Euro

Language: Portuguese

Safety: One of the safest cities in the world

How Many Days To Spend In Porto

For just the city 2-3 days is a perfect amount of time to spend in Porto. If you want more time to discover Portos' hidden gems or venture outside the city you could easily spend 3-5 days in Porto.

Some great day trip options are Aveiro, Douro Valley, Pinhao, Matosinhos, and Guimaraes.

When To Go To Porto

I am all about traveling the cheapest way without being uncomfortable. I think that best time to go to Portugal is May/April. The weather will be great and there with be less tourists. Also flights and accommodation tend to be much cheaper because this is a shoulder season.

How To Get To Porto / Getting Around

You can fly into Porto International airport and take a taxi (very cheap) to the city centre.

Porto is super walkable! You really do not need to take any modes of transportation while in the city. If you really don't like walking you could rent a bike or Uber but you really don't need to.

Where To Stay In Porto

Charming boutique hotel building in the historic center of Porto

Porto is a very affordable city to visit, so if you are on a budget you are in luck. These are our all time favorite hotels in Porto.

Budget Hotels In Porto

Pur Oporto Boutique Hotel by actahotels - If you want to stay in a budget hotel that does not feel like a budget hotel than the Pur Oporto Boutique Hotel by atahotels is perfect for you. You will find lovely rooms, stylish decor, twenty four hour reception, and more at the Pur Oporto Boutique Hotel by actahotels.

One Shot Aliados Goldsmith 12 - The One Shot Aliados Goldsmith 12 is a great budget hotel option in Porto! Located in a safe area of the city you will find everything you need at the One Shot Aliados Goldsmith 12.

Middle Priced Hotels In Porto

Architects House - The Architects House in Porto is a chic adults only hotel that provides comfortable accommodation with a private garden. This centrally located hotel is within walking distance of all of Porto's most popular attractions.

Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel - The Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel is a fully renovated historic hotel located right on the Porto River. You will find that the Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel offers comfortable accommodation, an in house restaurant, fair pricing, beautiful views, and more.

Luxury Hotels In Porto

Hotel das Virtudes - The riverfront Hotel das Virtudes is home to some of the most stunning views in Porto. The exceptional Hotel das Virtudes offers comfortable accommodation, bar, restaurant, private terraces, and more. If you are looking for luxury hotels in Porto it doesn't get much better than Hotel das Virtudes.

Wine & Books Hotel Porto - Another lovely option for luxury hotels in Porto is The Wine & Books Hotel. The Wine & Books Hotel offers a modern feel, incredible views, restaurant, bar, spa, gym, swimming pool, and more.

Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel & World Heritage Site - Located right on the Riberia, Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel (photo above) is the quintessential luxury hotel in Porto.

What To Do In Porto

Cais da Ribeira

Iconic Dom Luís I Bridge connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia over the Douro River

You could spend the whole day at the Ribeira. It is a highlight in Porto that cannot be missed. Along the River there are restaurants and shops you can pop in and out of.

There are also river tours offered. It was amazing to see the city from a boat. You can book a tour when you get to Porto or here.

You have to be careful with the restaurants along the Ribeira as some could be tourist traps. We ate at Peza Arroz, it was very good.

🎣Porto River Tour

Watch The Sunset From Jardim do Morro

Watching the sunset overlooking the river at Jardim do Morro is incredibly beautiful (I don't need to tell you that - just look at the photo). We went to see the sunset every night. There is usually live music and drinks for sale.

Porto Cathedral

The Porto Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church located in the centre of Porto. The inside of the cathedral is covered with Portugal’s famous azulejo tiles.

This is not a typical cathedral. It has many rooms and is mostly outside. You can also take stairs to the top and see all of Porto.

You will be fine buying the tickets when you get there. It was 10 euros each with the inclusion of The Bishops Palace beside the cathedral.

Bishops Palace

Once the residence of the Bishops of Porto, The Bishop's Palace absolutely stunning. The grand architecture, history it holds, and captivating art make this place a must visit. The Bishop's Palace and Porto Cathedral are both at high elevation which offers an amazing view of the city.

Sao Bento Station

Blue and white azulejo tile murals at São Bento Train Station in Porto

Sao Bento Station is a train station in the heart of Porto. The jaw dropping station is one of the most famous train stations in the world and is known for its azulejo tiles that tell us a story of Portugal's past.

Across the street from Sao Bento is one of my new favorite coffee shops ever - Noshi.

Largo da Pena Ventosa

Largo da Pena Ventosa is a hidden gem in Porto. We even got lost a few times trying to find it.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a collection of beautiful alleyways. Pop into a few of the lovely shops and buy a unique souvenir.

If you are looking for some photos - Largo de Pena Ventosa is a wonderful backdrop.

Largo de Pena Ventosa was also not very crowded, so if you are looking for some peace and quiet in your busy day of traveling, take a break here at one of the cool coffee shops.

Igreja do Carmo

Here is another little Porto hidden gem - Igreja do Carmo is a quiet church to visit near the University of Porto. This is a smaller church and covered on the outside with azulejo tiles. Inside the church you will find gold features and sculptures. Igreja do Carmo is beautiful and free to visit, so perfect if you are doing Porto on a budget.

What To Dine In Porto

Best Coffee Shops In Porto

☕Mercador - Mercador is a lovely brunch spot located near Sao Bento Station. This breakfast and coffee joint in Porto is perfect for an afternoon pick me up or a sit down breakfast.

☕Noshi Cafe -(photo above) Noshi Cafe offers delectable coffee and breakfast.

☕Hungry Biker - The Hungry Biker in Porto offers healthy lunch and breakfast food.

☕Nola Kitchen - Nola Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch. You will find healthy and clean food at Nola.

☕Manna - Manna is a yogi's paradise! You can take a yoga class at Manna and then grab a coffee or breakfast at there in house cafe.

Best Restaurants In Porto

🍴Tasco - If you are looking for fine dining in Porto than Tasco is the way to go. In the cozy Tasco you will find delectable cocktails and even better Portuguese cuisine.

🍴Kind Kitchen - You will find the very best vegan food in Porto at Kind Kitchen.

🍴Almeja - Located just outside of Bolhão, Almeja is a michelin recognized restaurant that offers casual fine dining.

Best Tours To Take In Porto

🚗Complete Douro Valley Wine Tour with Lunch, Wine Tastings and River Cruise

🚗Porto: Taylor's Port Cellars & Tasting

🚗Porto to Lisbon Up to 3 Stops: Aveiro, Nazare or Fatima, Obidos

🚗Douro Valley: Historical Sites, Wine Experience, Lunch & Cruise

🚗Porto Walking Tour, Lello Bookshop, River Cruise and Cable Car