15 Best Things to Do in Porto (That Are Actually Worth Your Time)

Porto is one of those rare cities that feels both authentic and exciting. With its colourful streets, iconic bridges, world-famous Port wine, and romantic riverside vibes, it’s no wonder it’s become one of Europe’s top travel destinations. I recently spent six days exploring Porto in July 2025 – and it exceeded all expectations. What struck me most was just how easy it was to navigate, how welcoming the locals were, and how many unique experiences the city had to offer.

In this guide, I’ve curated the 15 best things to do in Porto this year – based on first-hand experience and what truly felt worth my time. Whether it’s your first time in Portugal or you’re returning to explore deeper, this list has something for every kind of traveller.

1. Visit Livraria Lello – The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World

If there’s one place that lives up to its Instagram reputation, it’s Livraria Lello. This neo-Gothic bookstore is nothing short of breathtaking, with its ornate woodwork, curving red staircase, and stained-glass skylight. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy novel. The €10 entry fee is redeemable against any book purchase, so I picked up a pocket-sized classic to remember the visit. Crowds can be intense, so I recommend going early or late in the day.

Read my full Livraria Lello review

2. Walk Across the Dom Luís I Bridge

This iron masterpiece connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia and offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. The top level is pedestrian-only and sits high above the Douro River, making it a perfect spot for photos – especially at sunset. I crossed it several times during my stay, and every time the view took my breath away. It’s completely free and one of the most iconic experiences in Porto.

3. Tour a Port Wine Cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia

You can’t visit Porto without tasting its most famous export – Port wine. Just across the river in Gaia, you’ll find dozens of cellars offering tours and tastings. I visited Graham’s and Cálem, and both were excellent. You’ll learn about the ageing process, the difference between ruby and tawny, and get to sample several types. Many tours include a terrace view overlooking the city – the perfect spot to sip and relax.

4. Explore the Ribeira District

Ribeira is the postcard image of Porto – a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant buildings, and traditional tiled façades, all leading to the riverfront. Walking through Ribeira felt like stepping into another time. Street performers, tiny bars, and local restaurants make it lively both day and night. I spent one or two evenings here watching the boats glide down the Douro with a glass of vinho verde in hand. It’s definitely a tourist trap, however, its also genuinely charming.

5. Climb the Clérigos Tower for City Views

Rising above the skyline, the Torre dos Clérigos is one of Porto’s most recognisable landmarks. After climbing 240 narrow spiral steps, you are rewarded with a 360-degree view over the city – from the red rooftops of Ribeira to the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The baroque-style church at the base is beautiful too, but the real highlight is that rooftop panorama. I didn’t go up here as it was 30+ degrees Celsius pretty much every day and I didn’t have the strength in me to climb all those steps.

6. Marvel at São Bento Station’s Azulejo Tiles

This may be the most beautiful train station in Europe. Even if you’re not travelling by rail, it’s worth visiting São Bento just to see the 20,000 hand-painted blue and white azulejo tiles that line the main hall. They depict scenes from Portugal’s history, and the level of detail is incredible. It’s centrally located and free to enter, making it an easy and worthwhile stop.

7. Try a Francesinha – Porto’s Signature Sandwich

If you’re feeling brave (and hungry), trying a Francesinha is a must. This local dish is a towering sandwich filled with steak, ham, and sausage, topped with melted cheese and smothered in a spicy beer-based sauce. I had mine at Café Santiago – widely regarded as one of the best places for it – and it was an intense, satisfying meal. Definitely not for the calorie counters, but worth trying at least once.

8. Take a Six Bridges Cruise on the Douro River

Porto is stunning from the water, and a Six Bridges Cruise is a relaxing way to experience it. The 50-minute boat ride takes you under all of Porto’s major bridges while offering unique views of both Porto and Gaia. These cruises are available all day. Most tours start around €15, and you can find them easily along the Ribeira waterfront.

9. Ride the Historic Tram to Foz do Douro

Hop on Tram 1, the city’s vintage wooden tram that rattles its way from the centre of Porto to the seaside district of Foz. It’s a nostalgic journey that hugs the riverbank before reaching the Atlantic coast. I found it to be a relaxing way to see a different side of the city – plus, the beach at Foz is a great spot to unwind away from the crowds.

10. Watch the Sunset from Jardim do Morro

This small park, just above Gaia’s side of the Dom Luís I Bridge, offers one of the best sunset views in Porto. As the sun dips behind the hills and reflects off the river, the city lights begin to sparkle. Locals and travellers gather here each evening, often with live music in the background. Bring a drink, find a spot on the grass, and just take it all in. This was probably my favourite evening spot!

11. Wander the Crystal Palace Gardens

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is a lush, peaceful park perfect for a midday escape. With manicured lawns, colourful flower beds, and sweeping views of the Douro River, it’s a lovely place for a walk or picnic. I visited in the morning, and it was quiet enough to feel like a hidden oasis – complete with peacocks roaming the grounds.

12. Step Inside the Golden Church of São Francisco

From the outside, São Francisco Church looks fairly plain. But the interior is jaw-dropping – nearly every surface is covered in gilded woodwork. Over 400 kilograms of gold leaf were used in the decoration, making it one of the most opulent churches I’ve ever stepped inside. There’s also an eerie crypt and museum worth exploring underneath.

13. Explore Rua das Flores and Surrounding Streets

Rua das Flores is one of Porto’s most charming streets, filled with boutique shops, artisan bakeries, and street musicians. I loved strolling down here in the afternoon and ducking into side alleys, where I discovered small art galleries, local wine bars, and hidden cafés. It’s one of the best places to enjoy Porto at a slower pace.

14. Ride the Funicular dos Guindais

After a long day exploring the riverside, climbing back up to the upper town can be brutal – unless you take the Funicular dos Guindais. This short but scenic ride connects the Ribeira with the Batalha district. It’s a great way to rest your legs and enjoy a different view of the city from the glass cabin as it ascends the steep slope.

15. Celebrate São João Festival (June Only)

If you’re visiting Porto in June, don’t miss Festa de São João, the city’s biggest party. Held every 23rd June, the festival includes fireworks, street concerts, bonfires, grilled sardines, and an odd but fun tradition of hitting each other on the head with plastic hammers. I wasn’t there for it this time, but it’s at the top of my list for my next trip – locals say it’s unlike anything else in Portugal.

Is Porto Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Porto has this rare ability to feel both timeless and alive – a place where history and creativity coexist in every street. Whether you’re here for the food, the architecture, the wine, or simply the atmosphere, you’ll find that this city delivers far more than you expected.

These 15 experiences gave me some of my favourite travel memories to date, and I’d wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone planning a trip. Just wear comfortable shoes – Porto loves its hills.