Portugal’s second city, climbing the hills at the mouth of the Douro, with a UNESCO-listed riverside old town; across the river, the Vila Nova de Gaia cellars pour port wine.
Porto’s patron-saint festival, with fireworks over the Douro and street parties on the night of the 23rd; most official events are free. source
September–October (grape harvest)
Harvest time in the Douro Valley, good for winery tours and river cruises. source
Weather: May–September is sunny and good for walking, and the São João festival takes over the whole city on the night of 23 June; November–February is often rainy. source
Times to avoid: November–February brings frequent rain and chilly river winds, so pack an umbrella and a jacket. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Porto
Ribeira and the Dom Luís I Bridge Colourful riverside houses and the double-decker iron bridge form the UNESCO-listed core; walk the upper deck for views. source
Port wine cellars, Vila Nova de Gaia Across the river, port houses open their lodges for tours and tastings. source
Livraria Lello A bookshop from 1906 famous for its curving red staircase; book entry ahead to cut the queue. source
Where to stay in Porto
Ribeira / Baixa
The riverside old town and centre, walkable to the sights; it is hilly, so a lift helps with big luggage.
Bolhão / Trindade
Around the Trindade metro hub, with direct airport metro trains.
What to eat in Porto
Francesinha — Ham, sausage and steak sandwich under melted cheese and a beer-tomato sauce
Tripas à Moda do Porto — Stew of tripe, white beans and sausage, Porto’s traditional dish
Arroz de Polvo — Moist Portuguese octopus rice
Porto tips and things to watch out for
Porto travel tips
The old town is steep, so wear comfortable shoes; the Guindais funicular links the river to the upper town. source
Airport to city: Metro line E (violet) runs from Porto Airport to Trindade in the centre in about 30 minutes. source
Good to know in Portugal
At Portuguese restaurants, check the menu price for bread, olives or other couvert. Food you neither requested nor consumed cannot be charged. source
A bica (espresso) at the counter is the cheap local way. source
Watch out for in Portugal
Hills and slippery cobbles call for grippy shoes. source
Watch for pickpockets on crowded lines like Tram 28. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Porto are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in Portugal.
Porto attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
Livraria Lello entry voucher (deductible from a book): €15.95
Clérigos Tower + Museum (Adult): €10.00 · child €0.00
Serralves Park guided tour (Adult, non-resident): €15.00