Just a few hours north of the country’s capital city is a smaller but equally as charming city: Porto, Portugal. Known for its port wine, stunning architecture and beautiful riverfront, there are so many things to do in Porto and we wanted to fit as much as possible into the short time we had in the city.
Here are the top 7 things to do in Porto, Portugal!
1 – Visit Clérigos Church
This is one of the top things to do in Porto and you’ll probably notice the beautiful bell tower on this baroque church from various parts of the city as it’s almost 250 feet tall! Climb the 225 steps up to the top for a view of the whole city or sit below it at the Base bar and enjoy a local beer.
2 – Try a Francesinha Sandwich
The Francesinha is a local speciality from Porto and most restaurants have their own version or ‘spin’ of this famous sandwich. The sandwich is Portugal’s version of a Croque Madame and is typically made with various meats like ham and sausage and is covered with melted cheese. Then, it is topped off with a hot tomato and beer sauce, and served with french fries. Make sure to first work up an appetite exploring the city!
3 – Visit Livraria Lello
As a huge Harry Potter nerd, I knew I had to check out Livrario Lello! This beautiful bookshop was often visited by JK Rowling (the author of the Harry Potter series) while she was living in Porto. It also supposedly inspired her depiction of the Hogwarts library! Note that due to its popularity, tickets (approximately 5 euro) are now required for entry. However, the ticket price is credited back to you if you purchase a book!
Read Next: Tips for Visiting Livraria Lello
4 – Drink Port Wine
One of the most popular things to do in Porto is to enjoy some of their regional wine: Port. This sweet wine is often enjoyed as a dessert or a nightcap and is produced only in the Douro Valley surrounding Porto. There are several different varietals of Port and many wine cellars in the city offer tastings. Head to the oldest port wine house in Porto, Kopke, for a glass or tasting!
5 – Wander Through Old Town Porto
Situated along the Douro river, Ribeira is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Porto and is designated World Heritage by UNESCO. There is a charming square lined with old, colorful houses and restaurants with outdoor patios — perfect for an evening cocktail!
6 – Grab Coffee at Cafe Majestic
Step back in time at this charming and ornate cafe complete with chandeliers and wood-carved walls. During her time in the city, JK Rowling would come to Cafe Majestic to work on her Harry Potter book series (did I mention that I was a Harry Potter fan?!)
(Images Source: Cantinho do Avillez)
7 – Eat Dinner at Cantinho do Avillez
Michelin-starred Chef José Avillez has several restaurants in Lisbon and luckily for us.. one in Porto! Dining at Cantinho do Avillez was one of the highlights of my trip and was certainly one of the best meals I had in Portugal. Serving up contemporary Portuguese dishes in an upscale, trendy setting, its the perfect spot to indulge after a long day exploring Porto.
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