12 things you can't miss in Porto!

Experiences you can't miss in Porto

29 janeiro 2025

Located on the northern bank of the Douro river, discovering this city is finding many surprises. Increasingly contemporary and creative, Porto has a unique charm which is fruit of its landscape, architecture, colours and flavours.
With a steady growth and in continuous transformation, Porto has a particular beauty that you will discover in every nook and corner as you explore it. Here, you'll also find genuine, friendly people, who are always ready to help.
francesinha to the grilled fish in Matosinhos, without forgetting the most romantic sunset, from the bridge or from Cais de Gaia. You'll certainly bring home dozens of photos, filled with colour and charm, that will remain in your memory forever.
Voted several times best European destination and most romantic destination, this city has also won many other awards. These are some of the must-do experiences while you're visiting the second most important city in Portugal.

The view and the sunset from Luiz I bridge or from Cais de Gaia

For those who are especially brave, choose the upper level of the bridge (with the metro line), for an even more incredible view! Its also from Gaia that you can see Portos horizon and the Douro mouth curvature, which give you the best sunset!

Eat a francesinha

Its the most famous dish in the city, even more than tripas à moda do Porto (traditional stew of beans with meat). This is a kind of sandwich with beef steak, linguiça (Portuguese sausage), fresh sausage, ham, cheese, egg (optional) and its secret, the spicy tomato sauce that tops it. Its served with chips.

Grilled fresh fish in Matosinhos

In Matosinhos, the menu is grilled fish, always fresh. We suggest that you go for a walk on Rua Heróis de França, a street filled with traditional options for a tasty and aromatic meal.

Admire the diversity of Portuguese tiles on the façades

Tiles are very traditional throughout the country. In Porto, youll find them in the most typical houses, in all types of colours, shapes and sizes.

Walk or ride a bike in Foz

Enjoy a walk by the sea, on Avenida do Brasil and Avenida Montevideu. If you find a terrace, take the opportunity to enjoy an espresso and a pastel de nata (custard tart).

Livraria Lello

Its considered one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world! Legend says that the writer J.K. Rowling was inspired by this bookshop to create some scenes from the Harry Potter books. Visit it and see for yourself.

Catch the cable car in Gaia

A must visit with a view over the Douro river.

Go shopping downtown

From renowned brands, some popular and some luxurious, to traditional shops, shopping downtown is the best programme to find the perfect souvenirs to bring back home. Dont miss out on the traditional grocery shops either.

Boat ride

There are several options, starting with the shorter 6-bridge cruise to longer rides, but always with the Douro as the backdrop.

Port wine tasting

The Port wine cellars are spread all over the slope of Vila Nova de Gaia. They provide several options for every budget.

Park and Contemporary Art Museum of Serralves

A few minutes away from the HF Ipanema Park hotel, at this museum youll always find temporary exhibitions or from the Foundations collection. You must visit its gardens and do a guided visit so you can learn all about their history.

Explore the tascas (typical restaurants)

From the pork knuckle sandwiches of Casa Guedes, the cachorrinhos (little hot dogs) of Gazela and the smoked ham sandwiches of A Badalhoca to a beef steak sandwich of Venham Mais Cinco. These are the most traditional restaurants in the city as well as the trendiest, so be ready for the queues.

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