A Perfect Day in Porto

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal.

It’s described as more chill and relaxed than Lisbon, due to its location on the Douro River and less tourism.

Porto is easily accessible from Lisbon by car, bus or train in just a few hours.

Read more to find out the ultimate guide to this cool city!

Where to stay:

All of these recommendations have been thoroughly researched by me to ensure quality, good location/accessibility to the center, and I tried my best to find the most local friendly options that don’t contribute to the housing crisis Portugal’s cities are experiencing.

Boavista Guest House

@gottacaseofwanderlust

An branded as an “eco-friendly luxury house,” this is a more sustainable alternative to hotel chains with the same amenities such as free wifi, room service, a private bathroom with free toiletries, and a great breakfast.

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Ocean Porto - Beach House

@gottacaseofwanderlust

If you want to be close to Porto’s coast, this is the place to be. Only a 6 minute walk to the beach! Amenities include a swimming pool & Jacuzzi, a parking garage, daily housekeeping, bike rentals, and free wifi. The tram, that is a mere 250 meters from the property, will take you to Porto’s center in 25 minutes. They are grounded in ecological principles such as: Plant a tree for every room booked; Use Photovoltaic panels; Reduce water consumption; Purchase local products; No single use plastic; Only organic cleaning products. 1 reservation = 1 tree planted! What other hotel does this?!

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Lollas City House

@gottacaseofwanderlust

If you’re looking for a more local option that’s more sustainable than a hotel, this is an affordable homestay a metro stop (or 5 minute taxi) away from the center that guests praise for being clean, comfortable and a great value. One guest states, “Very sweet and friendly family who made me feel well right from the beginning. Very pleasant place and clean and comfortable room.” Free wifi is provided.

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Budget-

Onefam Ribeira Hostel Porto

@gottacaseofwanderlust

The highest rated hostel in the city by thousands of travelers. They are located just next to the famous Sao Bento train station in the center of the city and regularly host social events such as free family dinners each night! Perfect for solo travelers on a budget.

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Places to visit:

Morning-

Miradouro da Vitória

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A beautiful viewpoint overlooking the city and Luis l Bridge. There’s often a local musician playing, offering a nice spot to hang out with friends and chill

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Mercado do Bolhão

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The most famous market in Porto offering fresh produce, baked goods, and souvenirs

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Livraria Lello

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Said to be the inspiration behind “Harry Potter” (which isn’t actually true), draws a flock of tourists at all times a day into this aesthetically pleasing bookstore. The line was so long that I didn’t think it was worth it (especially since the entry fee is €10… which is applied to a book that you purchase) but it is one of the most popular tourist attractions so I included it

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Afternoon-

Sao Bento station

@gottacaseofwanderlust

One of the most iconic landmarks in Porto. Built in 1916 on the site of a former Benedictine monastery. Its main appeal are the 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles depicting significant moments of Portuguese history.

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Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A lovely place to stroll around solo or with friends during the afternoon. Offers beautiful viewpoints overlooking the river and the city — perfect for photos.

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Porto Walkers

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A tip-based free walking tour of Porto’s center that I absolutely loved with our tour guide Fiel. Highly recommend to gain more insight into Porto!

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Evening-

Miradouro da Serra do Pilar

@gottacaseofwanderlust

One of the best places to watch sunset just near Jardim do Morro

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Jardim do Morro

@gottacaseofwanderlust

Loved by tourists and locals alike, this is THE spot for watching sunset. You’ll find live music, a lot of food options in the area, and sitting space and is the most beautiful photo spot that faces the city from across the river

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Pérgola da Nevogilde

@gottacaseofwanderlust

Another beautiful photo spot along the coast that’s less than a scenic 30 minute bike ride (or 1 hour walk) from the center. I absolutely recommend going to Porto’s beach which exceeded my expectations of a city beach. Gorgeous for sunset (and better than Jardim do Morro in my opinion)

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Where to eat:

Breakfast-

O Novo Pão Nosso

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A very local spot, no tourists here! Pastry selection very good (traditional Brazilian and Portuguese) I recommend coming here first thing in the morning!

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Nata Lisboa

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One of the most popular places for a pastel de nata — and for good reason. They’re absolutely delicious here

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O Rei do Pão de Queijo Porto | Brunch - Cafeteria - Lanchonete - Açaí - Brigadeiro - Salgados - Café

@gottacaseofwanderlust

My favorite hidden gem on the city!! Owned and run by a Brazilian family, this cafe makes and sells fresh, traditional Brazilian pastries like Pão de Queijo (BEST IN MY LIFE), empanadas and Brazilian pies/breads. Service is so welcoming and they always warm each pastry in the oven when you order :)

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Manteigaria – Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata

@gottacaseofwanderlust

Probably the best Portuguese pastel de nata chain in the country. Though the original started in Lisbon, this famous chain expanded to dozens of locations in other cities. Unlike most chains, this place is so worth the hype

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MiBa Artisanal Bakery

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This isn’t a traditional Portuguese bakery, but still an excellent choice for fresh artisanal sweet/savory baked goods. I had the foccacia which was really good!!

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Lunch-

Casa Guedes Tradicional

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A must visit spot for traditional Portuguese food. Most famous for their sandes (sandwiches) but you can also try a francesinha and other local dishes here

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Gazela

@gottacaseofwanderlust

This place became famous after Anthony Bourdain visited and praised this no-frills joint specializing in Portuguese-style hot dogs. Sounds strange but people love them

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"VOLTARIA" - Petisqueira Portuguesa

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A highly-rated local spot that often has a queue, but is worth the wait for the top-quality Portuguese food cooked here. Try the francesinha, caldo verde, bacalao or pretty much anything else on the menu because everything is good

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Dinner-

Restaurant Lalla halal

@gottacaseofwanderlust

If you’re craving something different than Portuguese food, this is the perfect place. Enter: Algerian food! Similar in flavor to other North African countries, this locally owned restaurant offers tagine, couscous and soups that are sure to be the comfort foods you’re looking for

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Oldman Pizza & Co.

@gottacaseofwanderlust

Best neapolitan pizza spot that’s a local gem in Porto

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Aquele Tasco

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A highly recommended spot for a traditional Portuguese dinner. Try the bacalhau con natas here, some of their seafood tapas, and dessert!

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Day trip recommendations:

Braga

@gottacaseofwanderlust

The historic city center is a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and elegant architecture, showcasing a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

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Coimbra

@gottacaseofwanderlust

A riverfront city that was a former capital of Portugal (from 1139 until 1260). A major student city home to a preserved medieval old town and the historic University of Coimbra that was built on the grounds of a former palace. Home to the Royal Palace of Alcáçova, the official residence.

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Amarante

@gottacaseofwanderlust

Amarante is a picturesque town in northern Portugal situated on the scenic Tâmega River.

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Guimaraes

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The historic first capital of Portugal (founded in 1096) before shifting to Coimbra. Known as the "birthplace of Portugal" or "Cradle of Portugal." The Historic Centre of Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Aveiro

@gottacaseofwanderlust

The “Venice” of Portugal

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Things to know before:

1. Porto, like Lisbon, is hilly! Be prepared for steep inclines and a great leg workout when walking around the city

2. Carry some cash (euros) on you in you plan to shop at smaller, local places. Though payment by card is accepted most places, there are some cash-only vendors

3. The beach is less than a 30 minute bike ride (or 1 hour walk) from the city center and absolutely worth a visit! The beach was my favorite part of the city — especially for sunset.

4. Most people will speak English, but a “bom día” in the morning (good morning), “ola” (hello), and obrigado if you’re a man and obrigada if you’re a woman (thank you) is always appreciated!

5. The public transit is timely and well connected. Fare is about €2 per ride. Be sure to always buy a ticket, even though it’s not mandatory to enter the station, as fines are given to those caught without one.

Thanks for reading 🙌

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