First visit to Porto!

It's your first visit to Porto and you're wondering where to start? It's normal, there are so many interesting things to see and do! An essential destination for lovers of sightseeing, culture, gastronomy and breathtaking urban landscapes, Porto is a colorful city to discover in 1 weekend, 4 days or even 1 week. Whatever the length of your stay, you won't be bored! With effective planning, you're in for a treat!

Photos from the article: Porto City Guide

Explore the historic center (la Ribeira, Sé)

The districts of Sé and Ribeira make up the historic center, it is truly the epicenter of Porto, its heart vibrant and bustling at all hours. There is always something happening there and it is the starting point for many activities. Easy to reach (get off at São Bento station and walk towards the platforms), this is the place to stroll to get a first overview of the city. You arrive on the banks of the Douro river. Many restaurants, souvenir shops, stands to book your boat trip... You will be surprised by the people walking there, among the artists who sing to brighten up your stroll. Wander freely, with curiosity, wander through the little alleys, lay your eyes on all the beautiful things around you!

Cross the Dom Luis Bridge to reach Vila Nova de Gaia

The Dom Luis Bridge is emblematic of the city, it gives it its appearance and allows you to get to Vila Nova de Gaia by crossing the Douro, south of Porto. It's another city, but so linked historically and touristically to Porto, that we have the right to consider them as one and the same entity! Cross the bridge on foot, passing through the lower deck. You can then take the metro from the top apron or walk there to appreciate the exceptional view. In Vila Nova de Gaia, during your stay in Porto, don't forget to visit one of the cellars to discover the famous port, the city's emblematic wine. The maturation cellars are scattered near the quays and quality wine tours await you there. If you have a nice day ahead, take the boat (the rabelos) to take a tour across the city's 7 bridges and enjoy a characteristic attraction of Porto (allow 2 hours).

Take sightseeing tours of buildings and places in the city

Porto is full of places to visit. It is a city classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its history, its architecture and the preservation of its unique ensemble. Visit the grandiose Sé Cathedral, the majestic Church of São Francisco, explore the Lello Bookstore, an iconic bookstore that is said to have inspired JK Rowling for Harry Potter, don't miss the Palácio da Bolsa, an architectural masterpiece. Climb to the top of the Clérigos Tower, admire the blue mosaics of the Sao Bento Station… To find out more, consult our section on the tourist sites of Porto.

Taking on the city center!

On the attack because it goes up and down! When traveling to Porto, take sneakers with you, go with comfortable shoes, so as not to curb your desire to explore because of blisters. There are cobbled streets, stairs and the city center of Porto can be visited in a sporty way. Take regular breaks in the parks, there are many of them and each one is more beautiful and welcoming than the last. The Virtudes Garden, the Cordoaria Garden…

Savor the local gastronomy

The Portuguese culinary tradition is in the spotlight in Porto, which benefits from its own specialties. Savory or sweet tooths will all find what they are looking for. Open the door of a bakery to convince yourself. The Portuenses are fond of pastries and pastries of all kinds. There are all kinds to enjoy at all times of the day and night. Peckish? Discover tasty street food, made up of small sandwiches topped with meat, to enjoy on the go while strolling. Need a real meal? If you like fish specialties, Porto is ideal for stocking up on iodine at very reasonable prices. Don't miss out on tasting the city's emblematic specialties such as Francesinha (surprising, but worth trying!), cod in all its forms, Porto-style tripe...

Go see the sea…

In Porto, we tend to forget it because there is the Douro river which is the central artery of the city, but there is the Atlantic Ocean very close! If you have 2 days to spend in Porto, it will be for next time, but for a stay of 4 days or more, we recommend that you go and taste the pleasures and joys of the seafront. Go by tram (nice ride) or metro (fr), from the Foz do Douro side and continue to Matosinhos if you have time. On a beautiful day, treat yourself to a succulent meal of fresh fish from the nearby fishing port, at great prices!

How to get around?

For a first visit to Porto, we recommend that you rely on your feet! The historic center and the city center, which are truly the city's must-see attractions, represent a fairly small area, on a "human scale", which can be visited on foot.

We wish you a pleasant stay, don't forget to consult the articles on the Porto City Guide Blog to get ideas of what experiences to enjoy!

We also have a Porto City Guide Facebook page as well as an Instagram account @porto_city_guide