Things to do in Porto
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Top 10 attractions in Porto
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello has been a bookstore very much of its times ever since 1906, carrying within it over a century of history and stories, imbued into its architectural surroundings and also into the bookish knowledge that shape the experiences of those who visit and those who read. In our Milestones, we take a look back at the most defining moments, introduce some of the most influential personalities and witnesses to the many odd stories that have cropped up along the successful route journeyed by Livraria Lello!Porto · 1.3km from downtown
Douro River
The Douro River originates in the mountains of northern Spain, flowing westward through northern Portugal for nearly 900 km before finally merging into the Atlantic Ocean in Porto. Porto thrived because of this river, with its old town cascading along the northern slopes and the Gaia district on the opposite bank. The name "Port" wine comes from Porto, as it was historically shipped from the wine cellars across the river to destinations worldwide. The river's striking landmark is the Dom Luís I Bridge, completed in 1886: a double-deck iron arch structure designed by engineer Théophile Seyrig, who once partnered with the designer of the Eiffel Tower. The upper deck accommodates pedestrians and the subway, while the lower deck is for vehicles and pedestrians. The Ribeira Quay at the bridge's northern end is one of the oldest parts of the old town, where waterfront houses and narrow alleys belong to Porto's historic center, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Today, this riverside area is bustling with bars and restaurants, making it a lively spot in the city. On the southern bank, the Gaia riverside is home to numerous Port wine cellars, many of which offer tours and tastings. The river also features traditional flat-bottomed wooden boats called "rabelos," which for centuries transported Port wine from upstream vineyards to this location. For a different perspective of the city, take a river cruise from the Ribeira or Gaia docks. The round-trip boat ride takes approx. one hour, passing under several bridges and offering a unique view of the old town and wine cellars from the water. In the evening, the bridge and riverbanks provide open vistas perfect for sunset and night views. A westward stroll along the river leads to the estuary where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. The Ribeira area is crowded with travelers—vibrant but busy—so those seeking tranquility might prefer walking toward the estuary. With ample time, venture further inland along the river: the upstream Douro Valley, covered in terraced vineyards, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the origin of Port wine. During the late June Festa de São João, traditional wine boat races take place on the river, creating a festive atmosphere.Porto · 1.4km from downtown
Clerigos Tower
This iconic building in Porto was built in 1732 and completed only 30 years ago. It is a typical Baroque tower. Standing on the commanding heights here, the roofs of the residential buildings in front of you are full of bright colors like autumn leaves, adding a jumping vitality to the old city. When the sun goes down, the forest-like scenery will make you feel like a dream.Porto · 1.5km from downtown
Bolsa Palace
Bolsa Palace is an iconic building that combines architectural art, commercial culture, and public event functions, and it also serves as the headquarters of the Commercial Association of Porto. Construction began in 1842. The building is primarily Neoclassical in style, incorporating designs from various architects. Its facade is solemn and elegant, while the interior decoration showcases diverse artistic styles. One of its notable spaces is the Arab Room, which is famous for its interior decorations inspired by the Alhambra, exquisite woodwork, and intricate patterns, and is often used for formal ceremonies and musical events. The building also features several other spaces, such as the Assembly Hall, the Portrait Room, and the Golden Room, which display paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.Porto · 1.8km from downtown
Ribeira
Ribeira is located in the historic center of Porto and is one of the city's iconic riverside districts. Built along the hillside, narrow cobblestone streets extend toward the riverbank, lined with colorful traditional buildings. Red-tiled roofs, balconies, arches, and street-side shops create a distinct urban landscape. Ribeira Square, located along the river, is an important public space in the district, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and souvenir shops. Visitors can relax at outdoor seating areas and enjoy the view of the Douro River and Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank. Sightseeing boats are moored at the riverbank docks. Taking a boat allows you to admire the architecture along the Douro River and the bridges connecting the two banks, among which the Luís I Bridge is particularly striking.Porto · 1.9km from downtown
Luís I Bridge
The Luís I Bridge is located in Porto, Portugal, and is an important bridge spanning the Douro River, connecting Porto's historic center with Vila Nova de Gaia. It is also a highly representative city landmark. The structure features a large iron arch and a two-level deck design, with a total length of approximately 395m. The bridge is composed of dark metal components, and its massive curved arch spans the valley, showcasing the characteristics of 19th-century industrial architecture. The upper deck connects the area near Porto Cathedral with the Jardim do Morro in Vila Nova de Gaia and is currently used by Porto's subway trains and pedestrians; the lower deck is closer to the riverbank, connecting the Ribeira district of Porto with the riverside area of Vila Nova de Gaia, and also features a pedestrian walkway.Porto · 2.2km from downtown
Sandeman
Sandeman is located on the banks of the Douro River, facing the historic center of Porto across the water, and is a representative site for visiting port wine in the area. The granite building it occupies was built in 1811, featuring a simple and solid exterior, and houses wine storage spaces, exhibition areas, and a tasting room inside. It primarily showcases Sandeman port wine, along with its production, aging, and tasting methods. During the tour, visitors can learn about the wine culture of the Douro River region, see the barrels used for aging wine, and understand the flavor profiles of different types of port wine. The exhibition area also displays paintings, photos, pottery, and historical items related to the brand, including collectible antique wine bottles.Vila Nova de Gaia · 2.3km from Porto
Cais da Ribeira
The marina is located in the heart of the old Porto city, on the edge of the Douro River. Historically, merchant ships from here were an important means of trade for the city and the world. Notorious historical wars also took place here, and there is a bronze relief to commemorate this historical moment. Today this area is loved by Portos and tourists alike, with countless bars, cafés and restaurants filled with smiling people day and night. The charming medieval old buildings, the old streets and alleys, the Porto wine cellar on the opposite side of the Gaya Pier, the Don Luis I iron bridge, the traditional upturned boats floating on the river... Some people say that this is the best place in Porto. A romantic place, indeed it is a wonderful thing to sit under a medieval arch and have dinner with a loved one. The Libera Pier at the festival has beautiful fireworks, which makes the area more popular. Walking west along the river bank, past the square, you can see the Casado Infante, located in Ruada Alfândega 10. The navigator Prince Henry was born here in 1394. Historically, it used to be the customs office of the city. It is now used to store the city archives, including Prince Henry's baptism of birth and his notes, as well as many materials related to the city. found here.Porto · 2.1km from downtown
Dragao Stadium
Football fans will not be unfamiliar with the Porto Dragon Stadium, which is not only the home of the UEFA Champions League regulars - Porto FC, but also the venue for Portugal's opening game and final of the 2004 European Cup. The Dragon Stadium is one of the few football venues that has passed the five-star evaluation of UEFA. Its construction cost as much as 67.6 million euros. It was officially opened at the end of 2003 and can now accommodate 52,000 spectators. The entire stadium is uniquely designed, with a translucent top structure, excellent lighting performance, and is said to be built from a staggering 280 tons of metal supporting wood. The origin of the name of the Dragon Stadium is related to the Douro River. There has always been an ancient legend in Portugal. There is a fire-breathing dragon who wants to occupy the rich mineral deposits on both sides of the Douro River. The industrious and brave Porto people use the water of the Douro River to water After extinguishing the dragon's flame, the dragon became the servant and protector of the Porto people, and helped the Porto people to repel the invasion of foreign enemies many times. Since then, many people in Porto have said that they are the children of the dragon and named their stadium with "dragon".Campanha · 1.2km from downtown
Crystal Palace
This Crystal Palace in Porto was built for the industrial and agricultural exhibition held in Porto in 1865. Just like its name, this domed steel-framed glass structure is full of waterscape-like transparency. The unique frame structure gives it a modern feel even after many years. It is said that when the Crystal Palace was built, it was inspired by the Crystal Palace in London, England. It was designed by Jose Carlos Lorero and features an interior vaulted basement. In 1951, the Crystal Palace was demolished for a time, and then a new building was rebuilt in the same place, continuing to use the name Crystal Palace. Today's Crystal Palace, surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees, has become a venue for sports events and trade fairs, which can accommodate 5,000 people at the same time. There are also fountains, libraries, performance halls and cafes near the venue to provide supporting services.Porto · 945m from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Porto
Featured Cultural experiences in Porto
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Free things to do in Porto
Porto Cathedral
Porto · 1.9km from downtownBook now for tomorrowRibeira
Porto · 1.9km from downtownLuís I Bridge
Porto · 2.2km from downtown
Chapel of Souls
Porto · 1.7km from downtownCais da Ribeira
Porto · 2.1km from downtownCrystal Palace
Porto · 945m from downtown
Liberty Square
Porto · 1.5km from downtown
Mercado do Bolhao
Porto · 1.6km from downtown
Ribeira Square
Porto · 2km from downtown
Pergola da Foz
Porto · 4.9km from downtown
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What travellers say about Porto
Paulo Lastimosa2 January 2026
5.0
The most beautiful bookstore in the world! What can I say. Magnificent. It’s just that there’s just so many people. But what do you expect? People also wanna see the most beautiful bookstore in the world.
Livraria Lello
ポルトに留学中14 April 2023
5.0
The view from here is amazing!
You can view it from both under and above the bridge, and both offer different views so I recommend it.
I especially recommend taking the metro to the top to enjoy the view!
Douro River
Anonymous user28 September 2025
5.0
Clérigos Tower is one of Porto’s must-sees. climb to the top for amazing 360° city views. The stairs are a bit narrow but totally worth it!
Clerigos Tower
赵在大道上z1631 December 2025
5.0
Advance booking is required. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but there will be a waiting time. A guide will lead the tour. Note: The entire introduction focuses on historical figures and has nothing to do with securities.
Bolsa Palace
痴痴的饿货15 April 2020
5.0
There are old towns along the Douro River. Although they look a bit shabby at first glance, I really like the atmosphere of history that is a bit dilapidated. The old town is also colorful and well-arranged, and it looks even more lovely under the sunshine. There are many small shops in the old street where you can stroll around and buy some local specialties. There are also many scenic restaurants along the river where you can spend a very relaxing afternoon.
Ribeira
Maple111317 December 2024
5.0
There are so many people. The bridge has two floors. The lower floor is mainly for traffic, and the upper floor has a large number of hikers and trams. You can stop to admire the Douro River and the buildings on both sides. The scenery is very good. There are railways and trams on the bridge, so you must pay attention to safety and be careful about your finances.
Luís I Bridge
孔垂信00118 January 2020
4.0
This winery is also a very famous winery in the local area, where you can taste authentic wine.
Sandeman
Annie长翅膀的喵8 July 2025
5.0
Libera Marina in Porto is Portugal's favorite area.
Libera Marina is located in the heart of Porto's old town, adjacent to the Douro River. It is a vibrant and historical tourist destination.
There are many tourists. The view from the mountain and the riverside are pleasant. There are many restaurants and coffee bars on the river bank, which are suitable for strolling and sitting.
Cais da Ribeira
吃苹果的麻雀呀3 May 2022
5.0
The home stadium of the FC Porto is a modern stadium with a capacity of 50,000 people, which was built for the 2004 European Cup. It was officially moved here from the old stadium after a 2-0 friendly match between FC Porto and Barcelona on November 16, 2003. It was during that match that the world-famous player Messi officially joined the main team of Barcelona.
Dragao Stadium
