The 33 best things to do in Porto right now

What is it? Porto's most iconic market, which first opened in 1839, but moved into its current home in 1914, a beautiful neoclassical style building in Rua Formosa. It was renovated again recently (September 2022), but workers were careful to retain its original design, including the façade, staircases, and many of the tiles.

Why go? Some of the traders here have been operating at the market for over 50 years, and are always up for a friendly chat. Look out for 72-year-old Maria Alice, who sells fish at the Peixaria do Bolhão stall and is likely to tell you about the time she met Anthony Bourdain.

Don’t miss: It would be rude not to sample some tripe whilst you're in Porto, and Maria Luísa's meat stall is the place. She sells pork, black pudding, sausages and the famous flour-dusted tripe.

What is it? An incredibly important national institution in Porto, and a veritable conveyor belt of historical and cultural heritage. The museum is designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira, and found next to the Casa de Serralves (Serralve's House), a great example of Art Deco architecture.

Why go? The Serralves Park, with its great diversity of harmoniously interconnected spaces, is a reference in the landscape patrimony in Portugal. In addition to the temporary exhibitions, there are many other permanent exhibits that will enrapture art lovers of all shapes and sizes.

Don’t miss: Strolling through the Parque de Serralves after touring the museum, which is home to gardens, woodlands and even a farm. Designed in the 1930s, it is home to one of the Foundation’s major attractions: the Treetop Walk, an elevated path suspended above the ground and nestled among the treetops.

What is it? Five breathtaking walking trails through the city which tell the story of 19th-century Porto, from the love-themed Porto do Romanticismo to a trail based around rural and industrial archaeology. 

Why go? The hikes are full of history, stories and enchanting landscapes, and you'll pass through landmarks like the Casa Tait (a hub of the City Museum) and the old channels of the Massarelos stream. 

Don't miss: The remarkable walk through Gólgota, where workers employed in the riverside industry worked, which follows the route they took on their way to took on their way to Massarelos.

What is it? One of the most important museums in the country, which has been closed for maintenance since 2019. In April 2023, its grand reopening saw more than 1,300 pieces presented to the public.

Why go? The museum has a vast collection of paintings from the 16th to the 20th centuries, spanning ceramics, sculpture, paintings, printmaking, goldsmithing, jewellery, furniture, textiles and glass. Check out works by Henrique Pousão, Silva Porto, António Carneiro, Aurelia de Souza or Amadeo de Souza Cardoso – all iconic Portuguese artists. 

Don’t miss: When you visit the museum, admire the work "O Desterrado" (1872), by the artist who gave the house its name. This is a mandatory stop, and one of ten pieces at the museum classified as national treasures on account of their value.

What is it? One of Porto’s most recognised and prestigious century-old brands, located on one of its busiest streets.

Why go? The store isn't just a commercial outlet: it tells the story of a brand that has a history spanning more than 130 years. On the ground floor you'll find its classic products, from soaps to lotions and colognes, as well as the shop's gigantic sink, cut from a single block of Estremoz marble. Then head upstairs for a gallery filled with four generations of hand-drawn designs, lithographs, 1940s newspaper clippings, perfume bottles and more.

Don’t miss: Monthly workshops held in the laboratory on the second and top floors, where you can learn how to make the products they sell. Check Claus Porto's website for upcoming classes. 

What is it? An iconic cinema in Praça da Batalha, which has been showing films since 1908. The Batalha reopened at the end of 2022 after a decade of restorations, and now shows films for literally everyone: from classic to contemporary and the occassional cine-concert.

Why go: The Batalha now features two projection rooms,  a 40-square-metre film room dedicated to installations, a library with tons of film literature and a cracking bar. 

Don't miss: The frescoes by Portuguese painter Júlio Pomar, which were covered up for 80 years due to his opposition to the Estado Novo regime in the 1940s. They were discovered during the restorations, and are a remarkable sight. 

What is it? A 200-year-old house and gardens, restored in 2019 to become a cultural hub dedicated to contemporary art. 

Why go? The reopening of the restored 200-year-old Casa São Roque as an art centre is further proof the eastern part of the city is gaining a new life. Its history dates back to 1759 when it was a mansion and hunting lodge, and during the 19th century the house and its surroundings became the property of the family of António Ramos Pinto, one of the most famous producers and exporters of Port. Now, it's a beautiful grounds with a lookout point, a grotto and a pergola, and an unmissable attraction in Porto. 

Don't miss: There are two guided tours available: one dedicated to the house and the exhibition, the other focusing on the gardens and their spaces.

What is it? A Michelin star restaurant of fine dining cuisine with very few seats, an open kitchen and a menu that changes depending on the season. Euskalduna Studio was awarded a Michelin star along with Le Monument on Avenida dos Aliados in November 2022.

Why go? Get that palate ready for a real party. The tasting menu at Euskalduna is sure to become one of the best dining experiences of your life. Want a tip? Try and nab a seat by the counter to get a sneak peek into the kitchen, where the magic happens.

Don’t miss: The dishes are never the same, but everything is a must. Make your reservation, put on your finest clothes and prepare for magic.

What is it? One of the most famous bookshops in the world, and sits right at the heart of Porto. 

Why go? Whether you like books or not, you’ll find this bookshop pretty magical. The shop has been around since 1906, and remains at its original address at number 144 Rua das Carmelitas. It truly is a magical place, with a huge winding staircase, carved wood and a vast array of treasured books (it even inspired J.K. Rowling to write Harry Potter!). 

Don’t miss: Our big tip is to go at an off-peak time, not just to avoid the queues but to get the bookshop to yourself. This place gets busy. 

What is it? This tower is Porto’s thing. The monument looks out over the whole of the city, providing the most spectacular views. 

Why go? Looking out over Porto is a real experience. Miles and miles of beautiful buildings, winding streets, the huge river, and even a sunset if you time it right. The tower itself has been around since 1753, and built on an uneven street, for the laughs. It’s not a trip to Porto without seeing it. 

Don’t miss: Load up with a great brunch beforehand and take on those 225 steps. Just do it. You won’t regret it when you see Porto from 75 metres up. 

What is it? One of the liveliest and best places to grab a glass of wine or a beer in the afternoons, and find yourself not leaving till the early hours. 

Why go? This place is always buzzing with music and laughter, there’s tons of space on the tables and chairs outfront, and the space is a great sun trap until it gets dark. Like many of Porto’s hotspots, Aduela serves up a ton of great snacks, including those all-important cheese and meat boards. And if you don’t get a seat, don’t panic. Simply order a drink and chill on the street. Everyone does it. 

Don’t miss: A glass of moscatel on ice and a prego (a traditional Portuguese sandwich filled with beef and mustard). 

What is it? The place for Portuguese delicacy francesinha, with a no-fuss, retro café feel to the place. 

Why go? Okay, so for newbies, this sandwich can be a little terrifying. But it’s actually Porto’s delicacy, and if you get it at the right place, it’s delicious. The francesinha is filled with sausage, steak and ham, covered in a special beer sauce and topped with a fried egg and cheese. Oh, and surrounded by fries. Just make sure you schedule in time for a nap afterwards, eh?

Don’t miss: Avoid peak times if you don’t fancy queueing (but you might want to work up your appetite). 

What is it? It is one of the best restaurants of traditional Portuguese food in the city, where dishes are made with the expertise and love of the old days.

Why go? There are many reasons, but the friendly service, in true Porto style, the busy and peculiar esplanade on the São Nicolau stairs and the proximity to the river are some of the characteristics that make this restaurant a true box office success.

Don’t miss: The freshly-baked cod dumplings that arrive on the table as soon as you sit, octopus fillets with rice, and the famous cow tongue stewed with peas. Everything here is great, the difficult thing is choosing what to go for.

What is it? It is a store/gallery, an essential on any illustration tour of Porto, which serves as a launching pad and maturation space for young artists, both local and international.

Why go? In addition to original works, here you will find prints, books, t-shirts, tote bags, among many other things that you will want to take home with you. Mariana A Miserável, Ana Seixas, David Penela, Angela Dalinger, Maria Imaginário and Tina Siuda are some of the illustrators who give colour to the walls of this space, in the most artistic quarter of the city.

Don’t miss: Ó! Galeria is in Miguel Bombarda, the arts quarter. While you are here, get to know the many galleries in the area.

What is it? It is one of the oldest areas of the city and one of the most beautiful as well. The landscape over the river and the Rabelo boats (a traditional Portuguese wooden cargo boat used to transport people and goods along the Douro River) that cross the waters make the delights of tourists and locals alike.

Why go? Lose yourself in the narrow streets of Porto, full of ups and downs, colourful houses and caricature nooks. Charge your camera and phone battery before you arrive, because it will be almost impossible trying not to snap everything here. It also has good restaurants, bars and shops worth visiting.

Don’t miss: Visit Casa do Infante, to learn more about the historical evolution of this area of ​​Invicta, or take a leap at the beautiful Palácio da Bolsa.

What is it? Chocolataria Equador is a brand, 100% Portuguese, made of handmade chocolate. In Invicta there are stores in Rua Sá da Bandeira, Rua das Flores and Rua Sousa Viterbo.

Why go? There are a thousand and one reasons to want to visit the shops of Chocolataria Equador, as you might imagine. But the bonbons, the truffles, the roasted cocoa beans, the chocolate bars and the hot chocolate are, of course, the main ones. Look at the beautiful illustrations and design of the packaging, also made there, that cover the sweets.

Don’t miss: In this store, in addition to selling chocolate, they also harmonize it with coffee or Port wine. If you want to try it, there are special tasting sessions (€12-15, depending on choice).

What is it? It is one of the most iconic spaces of the Invicta to stroll around. There are eight hectares of gardens that welcome the Crystal Palace.

Why go? People have been strolling through these gardens since the nineteenth century, when they were designed by the German landscape architect Émille David. Nowadays, you can also expect peacock families, which is always a delight. This green destination is a must-visit for those addicted to strategic viewpoints with panoramic views of the Douro and the city. If you think the use of the word 'addicted' is excessive, just you wait.

Don’t miss: The panoramic views, the Almeida Garrett Municipal Library, the Romantic Museum of Quinta da Macieirinha and the Palace itself, which always has good exhibitions.

What is it? It is in the Andresen House in the Botanical Garden and is the first Living Science Centre dedicated to biodiversity.

Why go? First, for the scientific and artistic journey that this gallery provides, where art crosses with biology and natural history, stimulating a series of sensory experiences. Then get lost in the Botanical Garden that inspired several works by the Portuguese writer Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen.

Don’t miss: The skeleton of a whale found in 1937, the very realistic Charles Darwin wax sculpture and the two selfie spots.

What is it? Put simply, one of the best meat restaurants in the Greater Porto region. It is in Leça da Palmeira and is the ideal spot for carnivores.

Why go? First, the high quality of the meat served there. Then, for the whole surrounding scenery. Installed in a shipping terminal, the whole concept revolves around this: one enters by tunnel as one does when entering a plane, there are suitcases at the entrance of the restaurant and the menu is a passport.

Don’t miss: Sarrabulho potatoes, Black Angus with smoked rice, onion rings and spinach mousse and the Decadente de Chocolate, a cake with three textures.

What is it? It is one of the busiest places in Porto’s Baixa and a great start to your day. Why? They make the best pancakes in town.

Why go? Besides being tall, fluffy and very tasty, the visitor gets to choose the batter used. There are six options, covering plain, chocolate, oatmeal, vegan, blueberry or Oreo cookie. As for the toppings, there is a bit of everything, from fresh fruit, granola, ice cream balls and Nutella to peanut buttercreams.

Don’t miss: The salty pancake with cheese, bacon and garlic and herb butter. Better yet, just plump for the seasonal pancake, made with whatever ingredients happen to be in season at the time. 

What is it? First it was a basement, now it's a basement- museum. Those responsible for the Sandeman cellars created a museum that contextualizes and tells the history of this brand of Port.

Why go? Coming to Porto and not visiting one of the Port Wine cellars is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower. This granite building, built in 1797, houses an impressive collection of paintings, photographs, ceramics and antique bottles, of one of the port's most international brands. Every year they host more than 150,000 visits.

Don’t miss: The explanation of Don, the mythical and mysterious lord in black of the logo created in 1928, dressed in the typical Portuguese students' cape and Spanish sombrero. And, of course, one or two glasses of Port wine. Or three. Okay, fine, four.

What is it? There is an older brother in Foz, but this one, which opened in 2016, quickly became one of the busiest bars in Baixa.

Why go? Because of the low light, the antique-furnished walls and the good drinks, this is the ideal place to gather friends to chat before or after dinner. Or both. Yeah, definitely both. The menu is full of international beers, good whiskeys and various cocktails.

Don’t miss: Every week a new craft beer is offered, the perfect accompaniment for watching football with a mountain of snacks in front of you. 

What is it? It is a vegetarian restaurant full of tasty, greasy (yes, it is possible), and creative dishes, which gains new converts every day.

Why go? If you think that vegetarian food is all green and always tastes the same, Época is the ideal place to visit to smash those preconceptions into smithereens. The dishes are made with seasonal products, and the space is decorated in the Nordic style, very clean and full of natural light.

Don’t miss: The incredible sauteed brown rice malt with a reduction of soybeans, homemade kimchi, sautéed mushrooms, fried egg, fresh coriander and roasted peanuts, as well as Turkish eggs, fried, served with seasoned greek yoghurt.

What is it? It is close to the upper board of the bridge D. Luís and is a fantastic viewpoint for the historical area of ​​Porto. Not only that, but it is also a beautiful green space.

Why go? Walking from the centre of Porto to this garden is a good way to get to know the city. The upper deck of the D. Luís bridge guarantees you a panoramic view but, in the garden, you can concentrate on the Porto landscape that alone is already worth it. The proximity to the Serra do Pilar is also a plus.

Don’t miss: A sunset lying on the grass, a visit to one of the markets that take place in this space and a cable car ride are always good ideas.

What is it? It is one of the best-known pastries of Porto, such is the quality of its excellent éclairs. Every day 2,500 are made and that number doubles over the weekend.

Why go? Leitaria Quinta da Paço was established way back 1920 in Paços de Ferreira as a dairy factory and still continues to respect that tradition. Its whipped cream, for example, continues to be made only with cream and sugar, as it was in the '50s. The result is a crispy éclair on the outside, because of the choux mass, and very sweet and creamy inside, thanks to the whipped cream.

Don’t miss: Try the classic, our favourite, or maybe try the lemon, the dark chocolate, the caramel and the crunchy one. Fine, try them all.

What is it? It is one of the most eclectic spaces of Invicta, where music, art, food, drinks, cafes and parties meet.

Why go? For many reasons. This space, just in front of the Porto Coliseum, is a cultural producer extraordinaire, with an artistic conscience and an always-open door to the city. It hosts concerts, plays, exhibitions, artistic residences, drinks at the end of the day and parties all night long.

Don’t miss: Go to Vícios de Mesa, the Maus Hábitos restaurant, with many vegetarian options: from the wood-fired pizzas to the falafel, to the salads and lasagne.

What is it? It is one of the most iconic venues in the city, it hosts concerts of various musical genres all year long. It has a restaurant at the top and a cafe on the ground floor.

Why go? There is always something happening at Casa da Música. The calendar is dynamic and innovative and filled with from resident groups such as the Symphony Orchestra, Remix Ensemble and the Baroque and Choir Orchestra. The musical spectrum you'll find here goes from classical music to avant-garde urban trends.

Don’t miss: Get to know this work by the architect Rem Koolhaas through expert-guided tours. The best of all? The amount covers the purchase of a ticket for a concert at Casa da Música.

What is it? It is a store where everything is local, handmade, vintage and focused on sustainability.

Why go? Because you will be able to buy various things, from accessories and clothing to decorations, plants and furniture. The owner, Rita Dixo, upcycles everything from urban garbage or damaged objects and produces pieces that are then sold in the store. There you will also find one of the most beautiful and photogenic doors in the city.

Don’t miss: Meet the Local Food Lab every Thursday, with a kitchen, a terrace and a library room with guests from various areas. Booking ahead is a must.

What is it? The Royal Cocktail Club is a speciality cocktail bar, housed in a 100-year-old building in Baixa. It also happens to be one of the best on the planet.

Why go? Because the stars of the house are the signature cocktails, idealized and prepared by four prodigious mixologists with plenty of experience in the field. There are also alternatives without alcohol, mocktails, which bring all of the fun without any of the day after problems.

Don’t miss: On the lower level, where reservations are a must, there are board games that involve alcohol (of course), a good time and friends. Not necessarily in that order, but you get the point.

What is it? It is a mandatory place to visit during a night out. It is in the Paris Galleries (Galerias Paris) and has a busy concert schedule worth paying attention to.

Why go? Firstly because on the top floor there is a bar with large sofas and armchairs that invite you to have a drink with friends. And then, because on the lower floor, which is accessed through a grand staircase, there are two dance floors with different music styles for throwing a variety of shapes.

Don’t miss: Theme parties take place regularly, and things tend to stay rowdy until six in the morning. Yes, 6. 

What is it? To get a handle on the cultural health of Porto, this is the place to go. Together with the Carlos Alberto Theatre and the Monastery of São Bento da Vitória, it serves as a stage for the main cultural events in town.

Why go? If the shows it hosts aren't reason enough, you can always visit this theatre for the ornate and imposing architecture that it is famous for. It was officially inaugurated on May 13, 1798, under the name of Real Theater of St. John, by King João VI.

Don’t miss: Check out the possibility of guided tours that will take you to the showroom, the rehearsal room, dressing rooms and technical areas.