Is Porto worth visiting? That’s a legitimate question. On one hand, it’s Portugal’s second-largest city, so it’s only logical that it would have a lot to offer.
On the other hand, it’s often compared to Lisbon (which makes zero sense to me, but ok) and gets a bit overshadowed.
Don’t get me wrong, Lisbon is an amazing city, but that doesn’t mean that Porto isn’t – it’s just different. So let’s put the Portuguese capital aside for a minute and see why its northern sister is also worth your while.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables. I share my personal experience and cannot guarantee yours.
*This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info, read my disclosure and disclaimer. This post may show pop-ups.
Is Porto Worth Visiting? Here Are All the Reasons to Love It
The City Is Steeped in History
I know that’s something you can say about so many places in Europe (and around the world), but since Porto has exited since the 3rd century BC, it really is steeped in history.
From Roman times when it was called Portus Cale (which eventually inspired the name of Portugal) to the Moorish invasion to the establishment of the first County of Portugal to its contribution to the Portuguese Age of Discovery, this city has seen it all.
With so many centuries-old landmarks and houses, it’s also not surprising that Porto’s historic center/old town is one of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal.
Almost every corner of it transports you to the past, which is one of the best feelings to have when you’re traveling.
It’s Home to Must-See Landmarks
Speaking of the city’s historic center, this area is the perfect place for sightseeing lovers.
Dating back to different centuries, the landmarks here are truly beautiful and you must add all of them to your Porto itinerary.
You can admire the 12th-century Porto Cathedral (the oldest building in the city), climb the tower of the 18th-century Clerigos Church to enjoy scenic views of Porto, and visit the 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa).
You should also check out the stunning São Bento railway station and marvel at the azulejo tiles of the Church of Santo Ildefonso (which is also the starting point of the famous shopping street Rua Santa Catarina).
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you can also head to Livraria Lello, one of the most famous bookstores in the world, which inspired the library in Hogwarts.
Are you starting to get more intrigued by Porto?
It’s the Perfect Place to Marvel at Azulejo Tiles
The colorful tiles known as azulejos, which were actually brought to Portugal from southern Spain centuries ago, are an iconic feature of Porto.
Adorning Porto Cathedral, Carmo Church, São Bento station, and many other buildings in the city, these tiles have become a Portuguese symbol you cannot miss.
The Neighborhoods Are Beautiful
Exploring the different neighborhoods of a city is one of my favorite travel activities, and Porto was a delight to get to know. The historic center alone covers a couple of districts, but a few others are also worth seeing.
From the colorful Ribeira (located by the riverside) to the historic Baixa to the artsy, trendy, and cultural Cedofeita, it’s pretty impossible not to fall in love with these neighborhoods.
It Has a Surprising Food Scene
While I’m not saying that Porto is one of the best foodie destinations I’ve visited (because some cities have really blown me away), you definitely won’t be disappointed by its culinary scene.
With a good mix of traditional restaurants serving regional dishes and seafood, fine dining experiences (including Michelin-starred restaurants), and cozy cafes (in some of which you can try some delicious Portuguese desserts), you’ll find plenty of spots to stuff your face.
The Atmosphere Will Win You Over
A big part of what makes me love a city is a combo of friendly locals and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
It’s that kind of vibe that makes you feel welcome, which is the main difference between places I liked and disliked. Porto is, of course, on the positive side of that list, and I’m sure you’ll love it too.
Perfect for Street Art Lovers
Colorful murals always make me happy, and Porto boasts quite a few.
If you’re a street art lover like me, you’ll enjoy hunting down beautiful creations like Don Quixote (corner of Rua de Miguel Bombarda and Rua de Diogo Brandão) and Trinidade (next to Trinidade metro station).
It’s the Perfect Base to Explore the Douro Valley
If you’ve always dreamed of visiting the majestic Douro Valley (and even if not), you need to get to Porto.
It’s where the Douro River starts flowing into the Atlantic Ocean, and it is the best city to start exploring the valley by car or with a guided day tour.
The valley is home to the third-largest river in the Iberian Peninsula and the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Wine Region, and it doesn’t get better than tasting Portugal’s famous port wine when you’re surrounded by the beauty of the Douro River and terraced vineyards.
You Need to Get to Know Porto’s Jewish Heritage
I love exploring my Jewish heritage around the world, and I will definitely visit a city/town/village just for that.
But as much as I knew the Iberian Peninsula was home to thriving Jewish communities, I was still surprised to get to know Porto in that aspect.
Apart from a 20th-century synagogue, almost nothing reminds you of the city’s Jewish community, but if you take a Jewish heritage tour, you’ll get to see where the Jewish quarters were located and learn more about Jewish life in Porto in medieval times.
You’ll Find Plenty of Port Wine Cellars Right Across the Bridge
One of the biggest reasons to visit Porto is actually its twin sister, Vila Nova de Gaia.
Many people confuse Gaia, the Portuguese city on the other side of Dom Luís I Bridge, with one of Porto’s neighborhoods, but it is a city all on its own and one of the best places for port wine tasting.
With countless cellars that offer tours and tastings (like Graham’s Port Lodge and Calem), it’s a must-have on your itinerary, even if you’re not an avid wine lover.
There Are Lots of Free Things to Do
It’s not difficult to visit Porto without breaking the bank, as you’ll find plenty of accommodations for every budget as well as free activities.
These include strolling the stunning Crystal Palace Gardens, visiting the city’s museums (free on Sundays until 2 PM), and taking themed free walking tours of Porto.
Ideal for a Weekend Break
I love dedicating as much time as possible to a destination to fully explore what it offers.
That said, we all need to work with what we have, and sometimes a weekend getaway is all there is.
Even if you only have 2 days in Porto, it can be a great short city break destination, and you’ll be able to enjoy most of its highlights.
Buzzing Nightlife
Is nightlife something you’re looking for in a city break? Porto ticks that box too, with plenty of bars and clubs, many of which are found right in the historic center.
It’s the Perfect Starting Point to Explore Northern or Central Portugal
If you’re not necessarily looking for a city break destination, consider Porto as a starting point for a road trip in Portugal.
Take a northern Portugal road trip to visit cities like Braga and Guimarães, or go south to Aveiro and Coimbra. You can also base yourself in Porto and take day trips to explore some of these places.
Other FAQ About Porto
Should You Visit Porto or Lisbon
Both cities are worth visiting because they’re quite different, and each has its pros and cons, like the fact that Lisbon is significantly more touristy, but it also offers a lot more things to do and see.
If you’re curious about what the Portuguese capital is like, here’s my 2-day Lisbon itinerary and 25+ free things you can do in Lisbon.
How Many Days to Spend in Porto
As I’ve mentioned, Porto can be a great weekend getaway destination. Spend two days in the city itself (including a quick hop for a wine tour in Vila Nova de Gaia), and if you have the time, add a day or two for some fun Porto day trips.
Should You Visit Porto as a Day Trip From Lisbon
Porto is worth visiting, but not as a day trip from Lisbon. It’ll take you more than 3 hours to get there by public transport (and another 3 hours to return), which won’t leave you too much time to explore it. This complete guide to Porto will help you make the most of your time.
Related Posts
Read more:
- Road trip from Lisbon to Porto
- Lisbon packing list
- Hidden gems in Portugal
- Famous landmarks in Portugal
Related posts:
- Reasons to visit Turin
- Reasons to visit Warsaw
- Reasons to visit Budapest
- Reasons to visit Cadiz
- Reasons to visit Mallorca
- Is Bari worth visiting
- Is Poznan worth visiting
- Is Madrid worth visiting
- Is Cordoba worth visiting
- Is Malta worth visiting
- Is Kefalonia worth visiting
- Is Crete worth visiting
- Is northern Spain worth visiting
Great post!
Porto is such a fantastic city, I much prefer it to Lisbon and personally think the food is amazing!
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Jo!