What to do and see in Porto 21 must-sees in 2025

Published on 27/03/2025 • by Céline MAGNIN

One of Portugal's must-see destinations, Porto is a city that charms all visitors. Just a 2-hour flight from Paris, it's the Portuguese way of life, with its old-world scenery, pleasant atmosphere and delicious art de vivre. From the historic quarter to the banks of the Douro River, you'll be amazed by the city's UNESCO-listed architectural heritage, with its many different styles, most of them embellished with azulejos. Porto can be visited, of course, but above all it can be experienced at the tables of its restaurants, in its many bars and around the wineries where tastings of Porto wines, produced just a stone's throw away in the Douro valley, are organized.

1. The Ribeira district, Porto's historic quarter

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Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Ribeira is Porto's historic district, its cradle and for many the soul of the city. Its interlacing medieval streets tumble down to the Douro River, and the colorful facades of the old buildings give it a charm like no other. The most beautiful monuments are concentrated here: the Sé cathedral, the Sao Benito train station with its azulero-covered hall, the Torre dos Clerigos, the golden church of São Francisco, the Stock Exchange Palace, Santo Ildefonso... You'll be amazed by the city's old-world charm.

One of the best ways to visit Porto is withthe Porto Card, which you can book right here. It gives you unlimited access to metro, bus and suburban train lines, free entry to six museums in Porto and 50% off almost all tickets to the city's museums and monuments.

2. Visit Porto Cathedral

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Built in the ^13th century, Porto Cathedral retains the massive appearance of the fortress church it originally was. Nevertheless, its Romanesque construction has evolved over time: in the ^14th century, a Gothic rose was added to the façade, and a streamlined cloister was added. In the ^18th century, transformations graced the interior with the Baroque style of the period, which you'll certainly notice thanks to the altar covered in several hundred kilos of silver. From its forecourt, you can enjoy a view of the entire city.

Read more: Porto, the Portuguese way of life

3. Stroll through the Bolhão market

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The Bolhao market is one of the city's most remarkable buildings, and was declared a Historic Monument in 2006. Inaugurated in 1914, it boasts neoclassical two-storey architecture arranged around an open-air square. The building has suffered from the ravages of time, but its old-fashioned charm is still very much alive today. Locals still come here to buy fish, meat, vegetables, spices and flowers for next to nothing, in a very friendly atmosphere.

4. See the Clérigos church and tower

Designed by architect Nasoni and built between 1735 and 1748, the Igreja dos Clerigos is a Baroque church overlooked by a tall tower : Porto's landmark. At over 75 metres, the Clerigos Tower is the tallest in Portugal, and was once used as a landmark for ships. Climbing its 200 steps, you come across 49 bells that make up a large carillon. The view from the top is magnificent, offering panoramic shots of Porto.

Would you like to discover the history of Porto and its emblematic monuments such as the Clercs Tower? Book your guided city tour right here!

5. What to do in Porto Visit the Palais de la Bourse

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Owned by the Porto Trade Association, the Palácio da Bolsa is one of the city's most beautiful buildings. On a guided tour, you'll discover its sumptuous interiors, including the former Commercial Court room, the Golden Room and the former ballroom known as the Arab Salon. This room is a masterpiece of neo-Moorish art, inspired by the decor of the Alhambra palaces in Granada. Pay particular attention to the fine details, including stained glass windows and carved wood arabesques

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6. Serra do Pilar Monastery: a must-see in Porto

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Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, Gaia's Serra do Pilar monastery dates back to the ^16th century, although it took over a century to build. It boasts an astonishing church and cloister with a circular layout unlike any other in Portugal. The church is a replica of the church of Santa Maria Redonda in Rome, with a hemispherical vault. Facing it is a viewpoint from which the view extends to the confines of the Douro River.

7. The Lello bookshop, ranked among the world's most beautiful bookshops

Opened in 1906, the Lello Bookshop has been named one of the world's most beautiful bookshops , as if to salute its splendid neo-Gothic architecture. Its carved woodwork preserves incredible collections of books stacked from floor to ceiling, a decor that is said to have inspired novelist J. K. Rowling to write Harry Potter. It's true that you can recognize the atmosphere of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry ... a resemblance that has made the place such a success, and you now have to pay an entrance fee to visit it.

Have we whetted your appetite? You'll have the chance to walk past and admire it if you book your guided city tour right here!

8. Porto's Sao Francisco church: a surreal atmosphere

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It's best to keep your sunglasses on when you enter the Sao Francisco church : it took almost 500 kg of gold to literally cover its interior! This church bears witness to the ostentatious splendor of the Baroque period, which can be recognized by the abundance of wood covered in gold leaf, a process that is quite common in Portugal. Altars, walls, pillars, statues, vaults... all shine in a somewhat surreal atmosphere.

Did you know? Porto is one of our top 15 destinations for cheap vacations!

9. Getting to the Museum of Photography - CPF

Housed in a former prison, the Centro Português de Fotografia (CPF) has cultivated the memory of its past functions by leaving the building in its original state. In a setting of barred windows, locked doors and austere corridors, you can admire a large permanent collection of photographic equipment. Temporary exhibitions feature well-known Portuguese photographers, as well as a number of international artists... But it's above all for the building that the CPF is worth a visit.

Porto is one of our 10 sun destinations less than 3 hours' flight from Paris!

10. Wine tasting in the cellars of Porto

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Porto wine is the city's ambassador to the world, who in turn flock to visit its many wine cellars for tastings! In a setting of wooden barrels, you can taste the different varieties of Port wine while listening to its history and processes , from harvest to vinification. Ramos Pinto, Sandeman, Ferreira...: some of these wineries are well worth a visit, but don't hesitate to get off the beaten track to avoid the queues of tourists.

If you'd like to take a guided tour of Porto's Cálem wineries and enjoy a typical Fado show at the same time , we recommend you book your ticket here ! book your ticket here!

11. Stroll through the gardens of the Palácio de Cristal

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The gardens of the Palácio de Cristal , a romantic spot par excellence where lovers meet, offer a sublime view of the Douro . A restaurant open until 3pm is located in the park, next to the duck and peacock pond. From May to September, you can even relax with a free yoga class, usually in the late morning. This is one of Porto's must-see places to relax while exploring the city and watching the locals and tourists mingle.

Porto is also one of the best destinations within a 2-hour flight from France.

12. Stroll along the Douro River and admire Porto's emblematic bridges

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If you want to admire Porto's finest views and discover the city in a magnificent way, let yourself be carried along the waters of the majestic Douro River, which flows through Porto. We particularly recommend the Six Bridges Cruise, a must-do mini-cruise in Porto. This hour-long cruise follows the historic route of the "Rabelo", the traditional Portuguese boats that transported Porto's famous wine to the city's cellars. You'll pass under six bridges (hence the name) and sail up the river to the coast (Foz do Douro), enjoying panoramic views of the city from the water.

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13. What to do in Porto Attend a Fado show

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Take advantage of a stopover in one of Porto's many historic and picturesque bars to attend a fado show, a form of traditional Portuguese music. Attending a Fado show is a unique cultural and musical experience that will allow you to discover Portuguese culture. Fado is a traditional Portuguese musical genre with a long history, closely linked to Portuguese culture and identity. It's also a moving musical genre that uses poetic, melancholy lyrics to tell stories of love, sadness, joy and nostalgia. The music is often played with a Portuguese guitar, creating an intimate and captivating atmosphere.

Would you like to take a guided tour of the Cálem wine cellars in Porto and enjoy a wine tasting while listening to Fado music? Take advantage of our partner's special rates and book your ticket here!

14. Discover the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and its magnificent gardens

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The museu Serralves is a magnificent residence designed by the famous architect Siza Vieira, where some of the greatest names in contemporary art are exhibited. Inside, every detail has been studied, from the design of the toilets to the handrails on the staircases. Outside, don 't miss the Parque de Serralves, a formal garden featuring a succession of square pools surrounded by pruned boxwood. A visit to the Casa de Serralves overlooking the park is a must. Its 1930s Art Deco architecture makes it one of the most remarkable houses in the world.

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15. A tour of the Casa da Música concert hall

Porto'sCasa da Música is a must-see, whether you're coming to see a concert or simply to take a look at its stunning architecture. This grand edifice is made up of a white concrete block with impressive geometric shapes, and is an attraction in its own right. But if you're planning to go there, we recommend you take the opportunity to attend a concert : the program is vast and prestigious in this music mecca. Jazz, fado, classical music, reggae - there's something for everyone!

16.stroll through the artistic district of Miguel Bombarda

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A stroll through Porto's Miguel Bombarda art district offers visitors a unique cultural experience. The district is famous for its contemporary art galleries, design boutiques, trendy cafés and trendy restaurants. Take a stroll and discover the latest local and international art trends, meet emerging artists and designers, and admire contemporary works of art on display in the galleries. It's an ideal place for art and culture lovers to discover a different side of Porto.

17. Sunbathing on Porto's beaches

There are so many beaches to choose from in Porto! In fact, you don't even have to leave the city to take a dip in Porto. Just hop on the 500 bus at Praça de Ribeira. It runs along the coast to Matosinhos, just ten kilometers north of the city center. Get off when you like one of them. If you want to go a little further afield, continue to Espinho (20 km south of Porto), a major seaside resort.

18.spend an evening in the Rua da Galeria district of Paris

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Renowned for its bars and nightlife, La Rua da Galeria de Paris is one of Porto's liveliest neighborhoods. Here you'll find numerous bars, restaurants and nightclubs. However, we advise you to check public transport timetables or book a cab in advance to avoid getting stuck in the area late at night.

19.discover the historic São Bento train station

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Porto's historic São Bento train station is renowned for its architectural beauty, as well as for the magnificent azulejos (tiles) that adorn its walls. The tiles tell the story of Portugal and Porto, depicting scenes of daily life, battles and historical figures. You'll also see mosaics "inlaid" on the surrounding stones, worthy of a true goldsmith's work. The station was built on the site of a former monastery in the early 20th^century, and took almost 20 years to complete. It is considered one of the most beautiful stations in the world and is a popular tourist destination in Porto.

20.stroll along the Ribeira pedestrian bridge

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A walk on the Ribeira pedestrian bridge is a must in Porto! This metal footbridge links Ribeira, Porto's historic district on the south bank of the Douro River, to Vila Nova de Gaia, the city on the river's north bank. It offers a breathtaking view over the Douro River, as well as over Porto's emblematic bridges, such as the Pont Luis I, and allows you to discover the city from a different angle, with panoramic views over the colorful rooftops of Ribeira and the surrounding hills.

Did you know? Porto is one of the best places to go on vacation with a baby. In fact, what a pleasure it is to stroll through Porto's neighborhoods with the family, contemplating the narrow streets with their colorful facades and stopping to see the beautiful churches.

21.taste Portuguese specialties

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Porto is famous for its traditional cuisine , and one of its best-known culinary specialties is the famous francesinha. This is a sandwich made with sliced bread, ham, sausage, beef, cheese and a spicy tomato and beer sauce, usually accompanied by French fries. The city's famous port wine is another culinary specialty. This sweet, full-bodied wine is produced in the Douro region, just a few kilometers from Porto. It is often served as an aperitif or digestif to accompany local desserts such as pudim abade de Priscos or pastéis de nata. Discover all the Portuguese culinary specialities to try during your stay!

When to visit Porto?

As is often the case in Portugal, summer is the sunniest and most pleasant season. To avoid the crowds, opt for a September departure, as weather conditions are much the same, with a few days of rain thrown in for good measure. Despite the mild temperatures, the omnipresence of rain in winter prevents you from fully appreciating Porto. You can also go as early as April and take advantage of spring, which is an ideal time to enjoy Porto without the summer crowds.

Where to stay in Porto?

Porto is a Portuguese city full of charm and character which, as a popular tourist destination, offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit all needs and budgets. Visitors can find elegant and sophisticated luxury hotels with panoramic views of the Douro River, as well as youth hostels and quaint B&Bs with traditional Portuguese charm. Here are our three favorites, but you can also see the rest of our selection of the best accommodations in Porto here!

- The most original: The Moov Hotel Porto Centro is a former cinema building dating from 1839, whose original Art Deco façade has been preserved and the interior completely remodeled. It's great value for money, with a perfect location for visiting the city. For rates and availability, click here!

- The most beautiful: TheInterContinental Porto - Palacio Das Cardosas is one of the city's most beautiful hotels. It's housed in a superbly renovated ^18th-century monastery in the heart of Porto. You'll love its rooms with ceiling moldings and refined furnishings. For rates and availability, click here!

- The most economical: Orbitur is a major campsite chain in Portugal, known for its warm welcome and quality service, with a network of over 20 sites attracting campers from all over Europe every year.

Enjoy this article? See also our article What to do in Lisbon? The 19 must-sees and What to do in Lisbon in 2 or 3 days? Itinerary tips!

Here you'll find the hottest things to do in Porto:

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