Top 10 Things to do in Porto

Things to do in Porto

Welcome to Porto, a charming city in the north of Portugal that offers an incredible mix of history, culture, and modernity. Known for its famous Port wine cellars and stunning architecture, there’s no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveller looking for new experiences. Here are things in Porto.

1. Douro River

The Douro River is one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto, and a visit to this city isn’t complete without experiencing its beauty. The river stretches over 500 miles from Spain to Portugal, and it’s famous for being the home of Port wine production.

One of the best ways to experience the Douro River is by taking a boat tour. You can enjoy breath-taking views of Porto’s skyline while sipping on some delicious Port wine. Some tours even include stops at local wineries where you can learn about how Port wine is made.

For those who prefer land-based activities, walking or cycling along the Rota do Vinho (Wine Route) will give you stunning views of terraced vineyards alongside Douro’s banks. Whether you’re admiring it from afar or getting up close and personal with it, there’s no denying that the Douro River is truly magical.

2. Ribeira Square

Ribeira Square is one of the most beautiful and historic squares in Porto, Portugal. Located in the heart of the Ribeira district, this square offers a stunning view of the Douro River and its famous six bridges. The colourful buildings lining the square reflect Portuguese architecture from different time periods.

In Ribeira Square, visitors can find several restaurants serving traditional Portuguese dishes such as grilled sardines and codfish fritters. It’s also an excellent place to grab a drink while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

One of the main attractions here is a statue dedicated to Prince Henry the Navigator – an important figure in Portuguese history who supported exploration during the Age of Discovery. Another notable landmark is St Francis Church which showcases Gothic design with intricate carvings on its façade.

Visitors can take advantage of guided tours that provide insights about Ribeira’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring back home, there are plenty of shops selling local goods like ceramics, wine bottles, textiles and more.

Ribeira Square is a must-visit destination when exploring Porto not only because it provides breath-taking views but also because it allows visitors to immerse themselves into Portugal’s rich culture via its food, landmarks and crafts.

3. Church of Santa Clara

The Church of Santa Clara is a stunning example of Baroque architecture located in the heart of Porto. Built in the 18th century, this church has been beautifully preserved and remains an important part of Porto’s cultural heritage.

One of the most impressive features of the Church are its ornate interiors, which boast intricate carvings and gilded altarpieces. Visitors can spend hours exploring every nook and cranny, admiring the exquisite craftsmanship that went into creating such a masterpiece.

Another highlight is the beautiful cloister garden, which provides a peaceful respite from bustling city life. Here, visitors can stroll among fragrant flowers and ancient trees while enjoying views of the surrounding historic buildings. No visit to Porto would be complete without stopping by this magnificent church.

4. Estadio do Dragao

Estadio do Dragao, also known as the Dragon Stadium, is the home of FC Porto. This modern and impressive stadium was built in 2003 for the UEFA Euro 2004 football championship. It has a seating capacity of over 50,000 people and is one of the largest stadiums in Portugal.

The stadium’s design is unique and eye-catching with its blue exterior walls that resemble dragon scales. Inside, visitors can take guided tours where they can see behind-the-scenes areas such as changing rooms, press rooms, and even walk through the players’ tunnel onto the pitch.

For sports fans, visiting Estadio do Dragao gives a glimpse into Portuguese football culture. For architecture enthusiasts or those interested in engineering marvels, it offers an opportunity to appreciate contemporary design at its finest.

Located just outside central Porto but easily accessible by metro or bus, Estadio do Dragao should definitely be on your list of top things to see when visiting this vibrant city.

5. Museu Serralves

Museu Serralves is a modern art museum located in the charming and scenic city of Porto. The museum is situated on beautifully landscaped grounds that include a park, gardens, and an outdoor sculpture collection.

The museum features contemporary art exhibitions from both national and international artists. You can find permanent exhibits as well as rotating collections that change throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.

One of the highlights of Museu Serralves is its architecture. The building was designed by renowned Portuguese architect Alvaro Siza Vieira and features clean lines, geometric shapes, and plenty of natural light. It’s truly a work of art in itself!

Besides exploring the galleries inside the museum, be sure to take some time to explore the surrounding parkland. There are walking trails through wooded areas and open meadows dotted with sculptures that provide beautiful views over Porto’s countryside.

If you’re looking for a place to relax after your visit to Museu Serralves or want somewhere peaceful for an afternoon picnic then head down to Parque de Serralves which offers visitors plenty of space where they can sit back under trees while enjoying stunning views across this picturesque region!

6. Centro Portugues de Fotografia

Centro Portugues de Fotografia is a must-visit destination for photography enthusiasts. Located in the heart of Porto, this museum showcases the works of renowned Portuguese photographers and preserves the photographic heritage of Portugal.

The Centro Portugues de Fotografia exhibits both permanent and temporary collections that feature a wide range of photographic styles and techniques, including black-and-white, colour, landscape, portrait, and documentary photography. The museum also hosts various cultural events such as workshops, lectures, and film screenings.

One notable exhibit is “Portuguese Photography: 1854-1900,” which includes some of the earliest photographs taken in Portugal. It’s fascinating to see how far photography has come since its inception.

Another highlight is “Faces & Places,” an exhibition showcasing portraits from different regions of Portugal dating back to the 19th century. This exhibit offers a glimpse into regional cultures that are not typically portrayed in mainstream media.

In addition to its impressive collection of photographs on display inside the building itself, visitors can enjoy breath-taking views over Porto from its rooftop terrace. Overall, Centro Portugues de Fotografia is an exceptional destination worth visiting for anyone interested in photography or history alike!

7. Lago Artes

Lago Artes is a stunning man-made lake situated in the heart of Porto. This beautiful water body offers visitors a serene and peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Lake is surrounded by lush greenery, creating an oasis-like atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along its banks or enjoy picnics on the grassy areas surrounding it.

One of the unique features of Lago Artes is its impressive fountain display. The fountains are lit up at night with colourful lights making it a popular spot for evening walks among locals and tourists alike.

For those who love to be active, there are many activities such as kayaking, paddle boating and even fishing available on this lake which makes this place all more interesting.

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet amidst nature while visiting Porto, then Lago Artes should definitely be on your list of places to visit!

8. Metro do Porto

Metro do Porto is a modern and efficient public transportation system in the city of Porto. It covers an extensive network of lines, connecting various parts of the city with each other. Riding on Metro do Porto is not just about commuting from one place to another, but it’s also an experience in itself.

The metro stations are known for their unique architecture and design, making them worth exploring even if you don’t have anywhere specific to go. Each station has its own distinct theme and style that reflects either the history or culture of the surrounding area.

One such example is the São Bento Station, which displays beautiful tile works depicting scenes from Portuguese history. The Trindade Station features contemporary artwork by local artists that add a vibrant touch to this underground space.

Aside from being visually appealing, Metro do Porto is also affordable and convenient for travellers who want to explore different parts of the city without relying on taxis or buses. With frequent trains running throughout the day, you can easily hop on and off at any station along your journey.

Taking a ride on Metro do Porto offers both practicality and aesthetic pleasure – truly something worth experiencing while in this charming Portuguese city!

9. Palacio da Bolsa

Palacio da Bolsa, also known as the Stock Exchange Palace, is an impressive building located in the heart of Porto. This 19th-century palace was built to showcase the wealth and power of Porto’s merchants.

The palace’s interior is just as awe-inspiring as its exterior. The Arab Room is a stunning example of Moorish architecture, complete with intricate tilework and a domed ceiling. The Golden Room features gold leaf decorations and paintings depicting important moments in Portugal’s history.

One of the most interesting things about Palacio da Bolsa is that it still functions as a stock exchange today. Visitors can even see traders at work on the trading floor during certain hours.

Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the palace’s history and architecture. These tours typically take about 45 minutes and include visits to several rooms within the palace.

Palacio da Bolsa offers visitors a unique glimpse into Porto’s rich history and culture. It truly deserves a spot on any traveller’s list of top things to do in Porto!

10. Zoo Santo Inacio

There you have it, the top 10 things to do in Porto! We hope this list has given you some inspiration for your next trip to this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich history and culture or simply enjoy its stunning natural scenery, there’s something for everyone in Porto.

And last but not least, we couldn’t forget about Zoo Santo Inacio. This is a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages. Home to over 800 animals from around the world, including tigers, lions, giraffes and elephants, among others.

The zoo is also dedicated to conservation efforts and education initiatives so visitors can learn more about environmental issues that impact these amazing creatures. It’s a wonderful place where both kids and adults can get up close and personal with nature while having fun at the same time.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! There’s no better time than now to experience all that Porto has to offer.