Clinging to the steep banks of the Douro River, Portugal’s second largest city is filled with medieval intrigue, historic bridges, beautiful views, delicious seafood and port wine! Portugal’s famous port takes its namesake from the city itself, as the wine passed from the hands of its Dourvo Valley producers on its way to England and beyond. Both the Porto and the Douro Valley are UNESCO World Heritage sites in their own right.
Fall is lovely time to travel to Porto. The sun is shining, the days are warm and the Douro Valley wineries are wrapping up harvest!
Uber and taxis are widely available in Porto and its an easy 20-25 minute drive to the city center. It is also possible to take the Metro do Porto light-rail system from the Airport station into the city where it makes various stops.
The Douro River Valley is a one to two hour drive from the city and a very easy day trip.
EAT
Fábrica da Nata This bakery serves up this most exquisite pasteis de nata, delicious Portuguese custard tarts.
Jimão Tapas e Vinhos Small tapas-style restaurant and wine bar in Riberia.
The Wine Box Hip, bustling restaurant just a few blocks north from the Riberia. The sommelier is incredibly friendly and happy to make recommendations.
Vintage Theory This boutique port winery in the Douro River Valley has a lovely restaurant with a stunning view.
DRINK
Bar Ponte Pensil A small cafe at the base of the Luís I Bridge on the north bank. Go at sunset for a glass of vinho verde to admire the stunning views of the city and river.
Douro Valley Wine Tour No trip to Porto would be complete without a visit to this world renowned wine-making region. We especially loved this full day tour with eFun Tours which included lunch and wine (and port!) tastings at three different wineries.
Quinta do Beijo Small, family owned winery in the Douro with many vintage ports. The winemaker gives tours himself.
La Boheme entre Amis Bright and airy bar near the Universidade do Porto. Stand at the bar and sip a glass of port.
Letraria Craft Beer Garden This hole in the wall craft beer garden has a large outdoor area and decent selection of craft beers and lunch foods. Pop by before dinner or on Sunday before heading to the airport.
Majestic Cafe This art deco cafe, just down the street from Fábrica da Nata, was a favorite haunt of JK Rowling’s when she taught at the Universidade.
Xico Queijo Hip bar and restaurant near the Universidade. Great spot after hours and the surrounding bars and restaurants will all be busy well into the night.
PLAY
Cedofeita One of Porto’s trendiest neighborhoods. Take a stroll down the Rua de Cedofeita and pop into cute boutiques, restaurants and bars.
Livraria Lello The historic book store that inspired JK Rowling’s Hogwarts. Purchase entry tickets from the Armazéns do Castelo or in advance online.
Luís I Bridge Walk across the Douro River and admire the splendid view.
Muralha Fernandina A medieval castle in the center of the city whose ancient walls, staircases and watch towers remain intact today.
Porto Cathedral
Ribiera Walk along the river and winding streets of Porto’s medieval Old Town.
South bank wineries There are tons of wineries and port tasting rooms on the south bank side of the city and around the Castelo area.
STAY
Stay within walking distance of the Ribiera or Universidade to be close to all the sites. We enjoyed this AirBnb near Bolhão, which was a 15 minute walk from the riverfront.
