Curator’s statement
Porto is one of Portugal’s most captivating cities—historic yet relaxed, soulful without being showy. Porto reveals itself slowly—through tiled façades, riverside walks, long lunches, and moments that feel beautifully unpolished. It’s historic without feeling heavy, culinary without trying too hard, and deeply authentic. Three days is the perfect amount of time to experience Porto’s rhythm while still leaving room to wander.
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Things to do in Porto
Livraria Lello
Explore Porto’s most iconic landmarks: The Clérigos Tower, São Bento Station with its remarkable azulejo tile panels, and the Livraria Lello—one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Walk: Allow time to wander without an agenda. Porto is best discovered at a relaxed pace.
Tile-making: Partake in a traditional tile-making experience, where you’ll learn about Portugal’s iconic azulejos and try your hand at creating your own piece. It’s a hands-on way to understand an art form that defines so much of the country’s visual identity.
Visit Matosinhos: Head toward the coast to Matosinhos, a lively seaside neighborhood known for its beaches and exceptional seafood. Wander through the local fish market, where the morning’s catch sets the tone for the day, then enjoy a relaxed lunch at Bistrot, ideally after exploring the market.
Vila Nova de Gaia: Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia for panoramic views of Porto and the opportunity to visit one of the historic port wine lodges. Even for non-wine drinkers, the setting and perspective are worth the visit.
Places to eat & drink in Porto
Brasão (a must for a typical francesinha): A local favorite for Porto’s most iconic dish, Brasão serves one of the city’s best francesinhas—rich, indulgent, and perfectly executed in a lively, welcoming setting. Make sure to go for lunch so you have time to walk off all the calories!
Bistrot: Located near the Matosinhos fish market, Bistrot focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple flavors, making it an ideal stop after exploring the market and the nearby coastline.
Adega São Nicolau: A Ribeira institution known for traditional Portuguese cooking, generous portions, and a warm, local atmosphere—perfect for an authentic, no-frills dining experience by the river.
Cozinha das Flores: A refined yet approachable restaurant offering modern Portuguese cuisine rooted in tradition, with thoughtful technique, beautiful presentation, and a welcoming neighborhood feel.
Taberna dos Mercadores: An intimate, reservation-only gem serving elevated Portuguese dishes with a creative twist, set in a cozy, historic space that feels personal and quietly special.
Need to know
Porto is the ideal place to begin a visit through Portugal and makes the perfect first stop before heading to the Douro Valley, allowing time to adjust, explore the city, and ease into Portugal’s wine country.
Porto is a walkable but hilly city, so comfortable shoes are essential. The historic center is best explored on foot, with plenty of cafés and viewpoints perfect for spontaneous stops. The center is currently filled with construction (expected through 2026 at least) due to the expansion of the subway line, making walking the easiest and fastest option to get around.
Dining tends to run later, with lunch around 1–3 pm and dinner from 7:30 pm onward, and reservations are recommended for popular restaurants.
Porto’s charm lies in its relaxed pace—take your time, embrace long meals, and allow space in your schedule to wander.
For travelers who prefer a quieter, slower pace, staying just outside the city center can be an excellent option, while remaining easily connected to Porto’s highlights.
Matosinhos is easily reached by taxi or tram and is well worth the short trip for fresh seafood and ocean views. I actually prefer to stay in this area, with sweeping ocean views and a slower pace to my day.
Travel Advisor
Patricia Caruso
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Porto page.