Homeland of Port Wine, Azulejo Walls and the Golden Light of the Douro
Ranked by interestingness score, based on real experience
Steel bridge built in 1886 by Gustave Eiffel's student Théophile Seyrig. Two floors — the upper floor is open to pedestrians and the subway, the lower floor is open to cars. Walking from the upper floor is mandatory; Porto on one side, Gaia on the other, Douro under your feet. If you're afraid of heights, go downstairs, but you'll miss half the view.
Colorful houses on the banks of the Douro River — this is Porto's postcard. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and rightly so. Sit by the river and order a glass of port while overlooking the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. This place turns golden at sunset, I'm serious.
Could a train station be this beautiful? More than 20,000 azulejo tiles cover the walls — depicting scenes from Portuguese history. Even if you don't get on the train, get in, raise your head, keep your mouth shut. Think of it as a free museum, but people actually take trains here.
Gaia, on the opposite bank of the Douro, is the holy land of port wine. Taylor's, Graham's, Sandeman, Cálem—dozens of cellars are lined up in rows. Tour + tasting costs between 15-20 EUR, you try 2-3 different port wines. The view of Porto from the terrace of Graham's is a photographer's dream. One cellar is not enough, go to at least two.
The point where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. 30 minutes by tram from the city center — but those 30 minutes are the cruise route along the river. While watching the waves next to the Farol de Felgueiras lighthouse, you say, "There is also an ocean in this city." Beach walks, fish restaurants and Porto's best sunset.
The 76-meter baroque tower, the symbol of Porto. You climb 240 steps and a 360 degree panorama of the city welcomes you. It's kind of funny when you run into people on the narrow spiral staircase — you're waiting for someone to come down, all decorum. But the view at the top is worth every step.
19th century Porto merchants' stock exchange building. The Arabian Hall is such a place that it's impossible to leave without saying "wow" — the gilded Andalusian-inspired hall is the envy of the Alhambra. The guided tour is mandatory, takes 30 minutes and is worth every minute.
It is the oldest building in the city, dating back to the 12th century. From the outside it looks like a castle — because it was built that way, for defensive purposes. The inner monastery courtyard (claustro) is covered with azulejo tiles. The view over Ribeira and the Douro from the terrace of the cathedral is breathtaking. At the top of Porto, you will sweat to get out, but you will be rewarded.
Porto's green lung. The gardens lead from terrace to terrace, from each one you see a different angle of the Douro and Vila Nova de Gaia. Peacocks roam around, flowers are open in all seasons. Have a picnic, read a book, just sit — this is the most peaceful corner of Porto.
They say it is the most beautiful bookstore in the world and they are not exaggerating. The neo-Gothic façade from 1906 leaves open the red curved staircase inside. J.K. It is rumored that Rowling was inspired by this place while living in Porto. Entrance is 8 EUR, but if you buy a book, they reduce the price — so you have to buy a book. Good move, Lello.
What will you do from hour to hour, from morning to evening?
Porto's historical heart and tile art
Start the day with hot pastéis de nata and espresso. Feel the 130-year-old atmosphere of the patisserie.
Look at the azulejo walls of the station, then climb up the hill to the cathedral. Don't miss the tiles in the courtyard.
Get lost among the colorful houses by the river. Have lunch at Taberna dos Mercadores.
Admire the Arabian Hall with a guided tour. It takes 30 minutes, it's worth every minute.
Climb 240 steps and watch a 360-degree panorama of Porto. When you land, wander around the surrounding streets.
You taste the modern Portuguese cuisine of José Avillez. Make a reservation.
The opposite shore of the Douro and its wine culture
Go upstairs to Gaia. The view is breathtaking, the photography is endless.
Go to Graham's and Taylor's. Tour + tasting in each, try 2-3 different ports.
Eat fish or francesinha with a view of Porto.
Return to Porto, walk in the gardens. Relax while watching the peacocks.
When the crowds thin, visit the bookstore. Buy a book, deduct the entrance fee.
Start with beer, explore street by street bars. Porto's nightlife is here.
Foz do Douro, market and finishing touches
Visit the market, eat fresh fruit, taste cheese. Buy a gift of olive oil or canned food.
Take the tram along the river to the oceanfront. Walk next to the lighthouse, watching the waves.
Eat freshly grilled fish on the beach. In that Gaveto or one of the street restaurants.
Make the last purchases. Stop at the Majestic Café and drink your coffee while admiring the art nouveau atmosphere with your mouth open.
Watch the last sunset from Ribeira. Order port wine, say goodbye to Porto.
One week holiday plan with sightseeing tours
Getting used to the city and first discoveries
Gaze at the Azulejo walls, then start your day with the hot nata from the old patisserie.
Explore the market, taste the fresh produce, have lunch upstairs.
Climb 240 steps and see Porto from above. When you get off, walk the streets.
Explore the main street, stop at Majestic Café.
On the first night, sit by the river and enjoy the view of Porto.
Porto's UNESCO heritage
Visit the cathedral, take in the view from the terrace, go down to Ribeira.
Guided tour, enter the Arab Hall, shut up.
Hidden tasca in the back streets of Ribeira. Reservation is required.
The azulejo façade of Carmo Church is worth seeing. Buy a book at Lello.
Relax in the gardens and take in the views of the Douro.
Eat Porto's legendary francesinha, then have a beer at Galerias de Paris.
Gaia vaults and Douro
Cross the bridge to Gaia in the morning light. The view is very beautiful.
One of the oldest cellars, historical narration and 3 types of port tasting.
Eat at Vinum restaurant with a view of Porto. Wine pairing is a must.
A second cellar. Good for comparative tasting.
Drink coffee from the barista along the river and watch the Douro.
An elegant dinner at José Avillez's Porto venue.
Vineyards and river view
Train from Porto to Régua or Pinhão. The scenery along the Douro Valley is worthy of movies.
Wine tasting and traditional Portuguese lunch at a local vineyard.
Walk the grape terraces and take photos. This UNESCO-listed view is unreal.
Returning through the valley at sunset. Grab it by the window.
Foz do Douro and Matosinhos coast
Take the tram along the river to the ocean. Walk around the lighthouse.
See the art deco pergola, walk along the ocean.
Freshly grilled fish at fish restaurants on Rua Heróis de França.
Walk or lie down and read a book in one of Europe's largest city parks.
Contemporary art museum and gardens. The building and landscape are a work of art in themselves.
Seafood and vinho verde with ocean view.
Neighborhood exploration and souvenirs
Bohemian neighborhood of Porto. Independent cafes, art galleries, vintage shops.
Shop at the best souvenir shops.
Eat Porto's famous mini hot dogs. Cheap, fast, delicious.
If you visited the museum yesterday, just walk in the gardens today. Peace.
Coffee or beer at the alternative art bar. Check out the evening event, if any.
The last bar crawl on the night streets of Porto.
Final touches and parting
Sit by the river, feel Porto's morning light for the last time.
One of the most beautiful viewing points of Porto. Take the final panoramic photos.
One last seafood feast in Matosinhos. A fitting farewell to Porto.
Walk upstairs for the last time, look at the Douro, say goodbye to Porto.
From local classics to hype places
Premium The most elegant of the wine cellars in Gaia. Tasting menus start from 15 EUR, with vintage port tastings going up to 35 EUR. You can dine overlooking the Douro at the terrace restaurant Vinum — it may be the most romantic dinner spot in Porto. If you want to understand port wine, start here.
Local Classic A tiny little place in the back streets of Ribeira. It can barely fit 30 people, but every plate is a surprise. Octopus salad, bacalhau à lagareiro (baked cod with olive oil), veal cheeks — the seasonal menu is based on what the chef finds. Make a reservation, or you'll be waiting at the door.
Local Classic Open since 1896, this patisserie is Porto's sweet memory. Its pastéis de nata rivals that of Lisbon (better than that of Porto). Éclair, croissant, bolo de arroz — when you look in the window you want it all. Come for breakfast and start the day with espresso and hot nata. Prices are ridiculously affordable.
Local Classic Porto's best hot dog is here. Yes, I call it hot dog in Portugal — but these are no ordinary hot dogs. Mini hot dogs called cachorrinhos, topped with special hot sauce and melted cheese. You eat standing at the counter, accompanied by beer. You get enough for 2-3 EUR. Porto's street food classic.
Current Hype Porto's legendary francesinha address. If you ask what Francesinha is - steak, sausage, sausage, ham on toast, melted cheese on top, and tomato sauce with beer sauce around it. Stop counting calories, enjoy life. Santiago's is a perennial finalist in Porto's "best" debates. French fries and beer are mandatory.
Premium Porto branch of Portugal's star chef José Avillez. Non-Michelin star but Michelin quality food, relaxed atmosphere. From bacalhau to seafood, from meat to desserts, everything is meticulous. The price/performance ratio is one of the best in Porto. Be sure to make a reservation for dinner.
Premium Seafood paradise in Matosinhos. Porto's seaside neighborhood Matosinhos is famous for its fish restaurants and Gaveto is the king of them. Shrimp, crab, lobster, octopus — fresh, huge, perfect. A little expensive but normal for this quality of seafood. 20 minutes by metro, go.
Entertainment from evening to morning
Local Classic If you want a quieter night by the river, Ribeira is your place. Drink port wine or vinho verde (light, fizzy white wine) while overlooking the illuminated Dom Luís Bridge. Music doesn't play loudly here, conversation is at the forefront. Perfect for romantic couples.
Current Hype One of Porto's most popular nightclubs. Right in the middle of Galerias de Paris. Club with dance floor downstairs, cocktail bar upstairs. Thursday-Saturday nights are packed — the DJ sets are quality, the music oscillates between indie, rock and electronic. Entrance is generally free, drinks are reasonable.
Local Classic It means Bad Habits. Art gallery + bar + concert venue hidden on the upper floor of the parking building. The center of Porto's alternative art scene. Live music, DJ sets, exhibition openings, poetry nights — follow the program. Even its decoration is a work of art. A place unknown to tourists but loved by locals.
Local Classic Bookstore + bar + cultural centre. Books on the shelves, art on the walls, beer or wine in hand. Meeting point for Porto's intellectual crowd. Live music, book reading nights and discussion events are organized. The best version of the "let's drink while reading" concept.
Current Hype The heart of Porto's nightlife beats here. Dozens of bars, cocktail venues and nightclubs are lined up side by side on Rua de Galerias de Paris and the surrounding streets. You start with a beer at 22:00, dancing at 02:00, eating a francesinha at 04:00. Porto nights are happening in these streets.
Gift, local, premium
Portuguese brand that has been producing handmade soaps and perfumes since 1887. The factory store in Porto is both a museum and a shop. Their packaging is in art deco style, colorful and collectible. They even present soap as a work of art. If you want a special gift for yourself or someone, this is the right address.
Porto branch of the classic in Lisbon. Nostalgic Portuguese products — soap, canned fish, chocolate, ceramics. The packaging is so beautiful that you don't even need gift paper. This shop is the answer to the question of what to bring from Portugal.
Porto's main shopping street. Shops, cafes and boutiques are lined up for 1.5 km. Here's the Majestic Café — an art nouveau coffeehouse from 1921 that's one of Porto's most photogenic spots (the coffee is expensive, but the atmosphere is free). From Zara to local boutiques, there's something for every budget.
Porto's traditional market, open since 1914. It was renewed in 2022, but it did not lose its spirit. Fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, cheese, olive oil, flowers — there's everything. Food stands were added upstairs, while traditional stalls continue downstairs. Your sales aunts will tell you "prove, prove!" Get used to him shouting (try, try!).
When to go, how to get there, city transportation, accommodation, budget and practical tips.
Although Porto seems to be in the shadow of Lisbon, it is actually the city where you experience the true character of Portugal. This is the place that gave the country its name — Portugal, meaning "port of Porto." Where the Douro River flows into the Atlantic Ocean, colorful houses leaning on granite hills, churches covered with blue and white tiles and wooden boats that have been carrying wine for centuries. Porto's light is different from Lisbon's — harsher, more honest, like its people.
240,000 people live in the city, but the metropolitan area exceeds 1.7 million. The people of Porto call themselves "tripeiros" (tripe eaters) - a nickname they wear with pride, dating back to the time when, in times of famine, they gave all the meat to sailors and made do with tripe themselves. That's the kind of place this is: not ostentatious, but friendly. There are luxury hotels, but the soul of Porto is hidden in the tascas in the narrow streets, the fishermen's bars by the river, and the port wines tasted while wandering from cellar to cellar.
Porto has undergone a serious transformation in the last decade. Ryanair's cheap flights, the influx of digital nomads, the explosion of the gastronomy scene and the Airbnb craze have reshaped the city. But unlike Lisbon, Porto has resisted touristization a little more — you can still see aunties hanging laundry on the streets, you can still buy cheese from the local grocery store, you can still get your fill of food at a tasca for 8 EUR. I don't know how long it will last, but it's in perfect balance right now.
Porto has a few constants: port wine (of course), francesinha (the world's most aggressive sandwich), azulejo tiles (an art gallery on every corner), São João night (crazy festival where people get hit over the head with plastic hammers) and the pride in the saying "o Porto é uma nação" (Porto is a nation). This city doesn't host you, it accepts you. The difference is big.
The pace is a little slower than Lisbon, much slower than Istanbul. Breakfast is quiet, lunch is long, dinner is between 20:00-21:00, nightlife starts after 23:00 in Galerias de Paris. On Sundays the city almost stops — get used to it, Porto is the enemy of haste.
One final note: Porto is one of Europe's price/quality champion cities. Beer 2 EUR, espresso 0.80 EUR, francesinha 12 EUR, a good dinner 20-25 EUR. Even Lisbon is now more expensive than Porto. If you're coming from Paris, your wallet will breathe a sigh of relief.
Porto's average annual temperature is 15°C. Winters are mild but rainy, summers are hot but not scorching like the Mediterranean. The ocean effect is felt in every season.
May-June is the best period. The weather is between 18-24°C, there is plenty of sun, the crowds have not peaked yet. NOS Primavera Sound festival at the beginning of June, 23-24 June in São João — Porto's wildest night. It's worth coming alone to experience São João, but it gets harder to find a hotel that week; Early reservation is required.
September-October is the second golden period. The summer crowds have dispersed, the temperature is still 19-25°C, and the vintage season has begun in the Douro Valley. The best time for wine tours. Prices have come down from their summer peak.
July-August hot (25-30°C) and crowded. The beaches of Foz do Douro and Matosinhos are lively, but you may feel overwhelmed in the historical center at noon. Hotel prices are through the roof.
November-March is low season. Between 8-14°C, rain is frequent. But Porto's winter mood is also beautiful — wine cellars, museums and tascas are highlights. Prices are very affordable, Christmas decorations are warm. There is the Fantasporto film festival in February-March.
Accommodation prices increase significantly during festival periods (São João in June, Primavera Sound in June, Serralves em Festa in late May). Make a reservation 2-3 months in advance for these dates.
Airway: Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) is 14 km from the city center. Turkish Airlines operates direct flights from Istanbul; Flight duration is approximately 4 hours 40 minutes. Pegasus offers seasonal direct flights from time to time. It is possible to find tickets between 150-200 EUR if purchased early; It can go up to 300-400 EUR in the summer months. Ryanair and easyJet also offer cheap options with intra-European connections.
Airport-City center:
| Option | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Metro (Purple line - E) | 25-35 min | ~2.50 EUR (with Andante card) |
| Uber/Bolt | 20-25 min | 15-20 EUR |
| Taxi | 20-25 min | 20-30 EUR |
| Bus (3M) | 35-45 min | ~2.50 EUR |
Metro is the most practical and cheap option. From the airport stop (Aeroporto), you can take the purple line to Trindade, and from there take the yellow or green line to Aliados, Bolhão or São Bento. Get the Andante card from the machines at the airport (card costs 0.60 EUR + travel fee). Attention: Z4 zone between the airport and the center is more expensive than the normal city ticket.
From Lisbon: 3 hours 15 minutes from Lisbon to Porto by Alfa Pendular high speed train, ticket 25-35 EUR. It goes down to Campanhã station, from there it's 5 minutes by metro or suburban train to São Bento. 3.5-4 hours by Rede Expressos bus, ticket 15-22 EUR.
Porto's public transport is operated by STCP (bus, tram) and Metro do Porto. The metro has 6 lines, is modern and clean. It covers the city center well but does not reach some tourist spots.
Andante card is the key to urban transportation. You can load a Z2 single ride (1.40 EUR) or a daily pass (Andante Tour 1 day 7 EUR, 3 days 15 EUR — metro+bus+tram unlimited) onto a 0.60 EUR card. The Andante card is different from the Viva Viagem in Lisbon, it is incompatible.
Historical tram: 3 old tram lines are still operating in Porto. #1 goes from Ribeira to Foz do Douro — a 30-minute cruise along the river that's more experience than transportation. Number 18 makes a tour around the center, number 22 makes a wider tour. Andante card is valid.
Metro: 6 lines, 82 stations. It reaches the center, Matosinhos beach and Gaia from the airport. Clean, punctual, safe. Aliados and Trindade are the most central stations.
Uber and Bolt are very active in Porto and significantly cheaper than a taxi. Short distances 3-5 EUR, airport transfer 15-20 EUR. A good alternative when you don't want to climb hills.
Walking is the best form of transportation in Porto, but trust your legs. Although the city is not as hilly as Lisbon, it is not flat either. Climbing up Ribeira makes you sweat. Comfortable shoes are a must — granite pavers are slippery when wet.
Ribeira / Centro Histórico: Right in the middle of the UNESCO area. Douro river view, restaurants, São Bento within walking distance. The most logical region for a first visit. Disadvantage: slopes and noise at night (especially São João week).
Aliados / Bolhão: The commercial heart of the city. Metro, market, shopping streets, Galerias de Paris are all close. The best price/location balance. Business hotels and boutique hotels are concentrated here.
Cedofeita / Miguel Bombarda: Porto's bohemian neighborhood. Art galleries, independent cafes, vintage shops. Walking distance to Galerias at night. Ideal for young travelers and creative types.
Foz do Douro: Oceanside, quiet, coastal walk. 20 minutes to the center by tram or Uber. Suitable for families and long stays. Nightlife is limited.
Vila Nova de Gaia: The opposite shore of the Douro. Right next to the wine cellars, the view over Porto is unbeatable. 10-15 minutes to the center by walking across the bridge or by metro. There are more budget-friendly options.
| Category | Backpacker | Medium | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (2 nights) | 40-70 (hostel) | 120-200 (3-4 stars) | 400+ (5 stars / boutique) |
| Food | 35-55 | 80-130 | 200+ |
| Transportation (Andante + metro) | 12 | 18 | 50 (taxi/Uber) |
| Museum + entrance fees | 15 | 45 (including cellar tours) | 90 (private tours) |
| Entertainment / night | 15 | 40 | 120+ |
| Total (3 days) | 117-167 | 303-433 | **860++ |
Porto is even cheaper than Lisbon. Food prices, in particular, are ridiculously affordable — francesinha 12 EUR, tascada lunch 8-10 EUR, espresso 0.80 EUR, beer 2 EUR, pastéis de nata 1 EUR. I'd say it's the best value city in Western Europe for budget travelers.
During the São João and Primavera Sound weeks, accommodation can double. Outside of festival dates, it is easy to find quality accommodation at good prices in Porto.
Be prepared for Francesinha. This sandwich may be heavy on the stomach even if it comes from Istanbul. For your first try, ask for a half portion — seriously, the regular portion is huge and dense. French fries and Super Bock beer are traditional accompaniments.
Port wine is not just “port”. Ruby, tawny, vintage, LBV, colheita — there are types and they are all different. You learn the difference at the first taste. Tour + tasting at Graham's, Taylor's or Sandeman 15-20 EUR. Go to at least two cellars and do a comparative tasting.
Go on an Azulejo hunt. Porto is the most tile-covered city in the world. São Bento Station, Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso — all free open-air galleries. Raise your head, look around, there is a surprise around every corner.
If you come across a São João night, buy a plastic hammer (sold everywhere, 1-2 EUR) and hit the heads of those around you. They will hit you too. This is a tradition and no one is offended. Geranium flowers are also thrown. Watch the midnight fireworks from Ribeira.
Don't neglect vinho verde. Port wine is famous, but Porto's daily drink is actually vinho verde — light, fizzy, young white wine. On summer days, an ice-cold vinho verde is as refreshing as a cold beer. You can have a bottle opened in restaurants for 3-5 EUR.
Go to Matosinhos. 20 minutes by metro to the center, dozens of fish restaurants on the beach. Fresh grilled fish for 8-12 EUR (serious). People from Porto come here to eat fish on the weekends. Not a tourist trap, real local experience.
Be prepared for hills. Porto is not as steep as Lisbon, but it is not flat either. Walking from Ribeira to Clérigos makes you sweat. Comfortable shoes are a must. The narrow, stepped streets are granite-stoned and slippery when wet.
Consider Porto Card. 1 day 13 EUR, 2 days 20 EUR, 3 days 25 EUR — including public transportation, discounts on museums and cellar tours. It saves money if you're staying 2+ days.
Be planned on Sunday. Mercado do Bolhão and many shops are closed on Sundays. Most museums are open, but some smaller venues are closing. Some museums are closed on Monday (including Serralves). Make your week plan accordingly.
Porto has a child-friendly rating of 3.7/5 — the hills and stony streets are challenging, but the riverside, trams and friendly people compensate. The Portuguese are very tolerant towards children; Children's noise in restaurants does not bother anyone.
0-3 years: Foz do Douro beach walk is flat and wide, best suited for strollers. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is also good — shady, grassy, there are peacocks. Ribeira's narrow slopes and stairs are impossible with a stroller, use a kangaroo carrier.
4-7 years: Historic tram number 1 adventure train for children — goes from Ribeira to the ocean. The World of Discoveries museum (an interactive museum that tells the Portuguese age of discovery) is the star of this age group. The Douro river tour (1 hour, 15 EUR) also excites children.
8-12 years: Livraria Lello's Harry Potter connection appeals to children. Walking from the top of the Dom Luís Bridge is unforgettable (if you are not afraid of heights). Running around on Matosinhos beach and eating ice cream is also classic.
Ages 13+: Gaia wine cellars (children can taste grape juice), Serralves contemporary art museum, surf lessons on Foz beach and the bohemian streets of Cedofeita attract young people.
World of Discoveries — An interactive museum depicting Portugal's age of discovery. You explore the world in small boats (in exact models). Kids love it, and adults are surprised too.
Tram #1 — Nostalgic 30-minute tram ride along the river from Ribeira to Foz do Douro. Both transportation and entertainment for children.
SEA LIFE Porto — Aquarium in Foz do Douro. Sharks, seahorses, octopus and interactive pools. Perfect for rainy days.
Douro River Cruise — 50-minute boat tour passing under 6 bridges. While the kids are busy counting the bridges, you enjoy the view.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal — Peacocks roam freely in the gardens. Children never get tired of chasing birds. Picnic areas are large and have plenty of shade.
Baby stroller: Porto's historical center is hilly and stony. The Ribeira and Sé area is anti-baby strollers. Foz do Douro, Parque da Cidade and Gaia riverside are flat and convenient. The metro has elevators, buses have sidewalks — trams are difficult.
Children's menu: In Portuguese restaurants, you can ask for a children's portion (meia dose or dose de criança). Chicken, fish, potatoes and rice are everywhere. Francesinha may be heavy for children, the sauce is hot — be careful.
Children's ticket discounts: Metro is free for children under 4 years old. In most museums, children under 12 are free or discounted. There is no family version of Porto Card, but discounts can be collected with individual cards.
Toilet: Available in museums and shopping malls. There are few on the streets. There are public toilets at Mercado do Bolhão and São Bento Station (usually €0.50).
People from Porto have a different character from people from Lisbon. They have a straighter, harder shell but are soft inside. They may seem cold at first glance, but chat for two minutes and they will invite you to dinner while giving you directions to their home.
The greeting is the same as in Lisbon — kiss on both cheeks, start on the right cheek. "Bom dia" (good morning), "Boa tarde" (good afternoon), "Boa noite" (good evening). "Obrigado" for men, "obrigada" for women. This small distinction is sympathetic to the people of Porto.
The issue of couvert in the restaurant also applies here. They bring bread, butter, olives to the table — not free, between 2-4 EUR. If you don't want it, send it back, no problem. But whoever touches pays.
Tipping is not mandatory, but 5-10% is appreciated. The tipping culture in Porto is even lower-profile than in Lisbon — just round up.
The Porto-Lisbon rivalry is taken seriously. Don't tell the people of Porto "Lisbon is more beautiful" — that's where your friendship ends. Porto people see themselves as more hard-working, more sincere and more realistic. This rivalry is also reflected in football: FC Porto vs Benfica matches are a national affair.
Francesinha is Porto's pride. Every Porto resident knows his own best francesinha and is ready to discuss it. “Where is the best francesinha?” Ask him, he will explain for 30 minutes. Asking this question is the easiest way to open a conversation.
São João night (June 23) is Porto's most sacred tradition. Be prepared to get hit in the head with a plastic hammer — it's a sign of affection. Throwing geranium flowers is also a tradition. Sardines are cooking on street barbecues and everyone is dancing. Don't say you got to know Porto until you've experienced this night.
Know one thing about port wine: Port people drink it as a tasting, their daily drink is vinho verde. You'll usually see vinho verde and Super Bock beer on a Porto person's table. Port wine is a drink of celebration and hosting guests.
Meal times are similar to Lisbon. Lunch 12:30-14:30, evening 19:30-21:00. The late food culture is not as extreme as Madrid. The city slows down on Sundays, with many restaurants closing after lunch service.
How many days does it take to visit Porto? 3 days are enough for Ribeira, Gaia and the central trio. If you want to add a Douro Valley day trip to Matosinhos, Braga or Guimarães, plan 5-7 days. If you just want to see the city center quickly, 2 full days will be enough, but you will feel rushed.
Where to eat Francesinha? Café Santiago and Cervejaria Gazela are classic addresses. Side Café is also a strong alternative. Every Porto resident has their own favorite — try more than one and decide for yourself. Ask for a half portion the first time, I'm serious.
Where to taste port wine? There are dozens of cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Graham's (view + quality), Taylor's (history + atmosphere), Sandeman (iconic cape), Cálem (central location) are the most popular. You can enter without a reservation, but make it in advance during the summer months. Tour + tasting for 15-20 EUR.
Is Porto safe? It's very safe. One of the cities with the lowest crime rates in Europe. You can walk comfortably on the streets even at night. But beware of pickpockets in tourist areas (Ribeira, São Bento, tram number 1). Common sense is enough.
Is it possible to travel from Türkiye without a visa? No with ordinary (maroon) passport — Schengen visa required. Green (special), gray (service) and black (diplomatic) passport holders can enter without a visa for up to 90 days in 180 days. Schengen application via VFS Global; Start 6-8 weeks in advance in the summer months.
How to get from Lisbon to Porto? 3 hours 15 minutes by Alfa Pendular high speed train, ticket 25-35 EUR. 3.5-4 hours, 15-22 EUR by Rede Expressos bus. There is also a plane, but it takes the same time as the train, including airport transfers.
How to get to Douro Valley? From São Bento by CP train to Régua or Pinhão. The train journey passes through the most beautiful views of the valley (2-3 hours). Alternative: organized tour (40-80 EUR, including wine tasting + lunch). It is also nice to go by car, but if you are going to taste wine, there is a driver problem.
Best transportation from the airport to the city? Metro purple line (E) is the cheapest and most practical — 2.50 EUR, 25-35 minutes. Uber/Bolt 15-20 EUR, 20-25 minutes. Taxi 20-30 EUR. Metro is the most logical choice; Get your Andante card from the machine at the airport.
Is English spoken in Porto? Yes, English is common, especially among the younger generation and in the tourism industry. Restaurant menus are generally available in English. But learning a few words of Portuguese (olá, obrigado/a, por favor, saúde) makes people smile.
Porto or Lisbon? Both are great but different. Porto is smaller, friendlier, cheaper and has a tougher character. Lisbon is more cosmopolitan, larger, more diverse. I would say go to both, but start with Porto — your expectations will be lower than in Lisbon and the surprise effect will be stronger.
Festivals, concerts and public holidays — 2026 calendar
May 30, 2026 – May 31, 2026
Fundação de Serralves, Porto
40 hours of uninterrupted art festival. Music, dance, theatre, performance art, workshops in the gardens of the Serralves Foundation — all for free. The most awaited event for Porto's culture lovers. Sit on the grass and watch the art, which continues into the night.
Official source →Jun 4, 2026 – Jun 7, 2026
Parque da Cidade, Porto
Porto's version of Barcelona's legendary Primavera Sound festival. It is located in Parque da Cidade (Europe's largest city park). Indie, rock, electronic, hip-hop — the line-up is very strong every year. During the festival week, the city is filled with music, and hotel prices increase accordingly.
Official source →Jun 23, 2026 – Jun 24, 2026
Citywide, especially Ribeira and Fontainhas
Porto's biggest night of the year. On the evening of June 23, the whole city takes to the streets. People are hitting each other's heads with plastic hammers (yes, really), geranium flowers are everywhere, sardines are cooking on barbecues, there are fireworks over the Douro at midnight. Dance, music and chaos until the morning. Seeing Porto at São João night is something else.
Official source →Nov 11, 2026
Citywide
Chestnut festival. On November 11, chestnut barbecues are set up on street corners and água-pé (new wine) is drunk. The sweetest tradition of autumn Porto. It is not a big festival, but it is a good opportunity to feel the local culture.
Official source →Current according to passport type
Schengen visa required. Max 90 days stay in 180 days. Application can be made through the Portuguese Consulate or VFS Global. Processing time 2-4 weeks; Due to the busy summer months, we recommend that you make an appointment 6-8 weeks in advance.
Official application →The right to stay visa-free for up to 90 days in 180 days.
The right to stay visa-free for up to 90 days in 180 days.
Visa-free within the framework of mutual agreement.
For application links and other countries, check the Turkish Passport Visa Guide.
Instant Ticket Prices
Best prices with a single click, flights to Porto
If you liked Porto, check these out too