Things to Do in Porto

Charming seaside district where the Douro river meets the Atlantic

Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and explore the historic port wine cellars that made Porto famous worldwide. Major houses like Taylor's, Graham's, Sandeman, and Cálem offer tours explaining fascinating production history and aging process, followed by tastings of various port styles from ruby to tawny to vintage vintages. Tours typically €16-27 per person including tastings. Taylor's terrace offers stunning views back across to Porto. Sandeman features guides in distinctive black capes and wide-brimmed hats. Book popular cellars in advance during peak season. Cable car available to reach hillside cellars. Allow 2-3 hours to properly tour and taste at multiple cellars.

Frequently ranked among world most beautiful bookstores and said to have inspired J.K. Rowling's Hogwarts while she lived in Porto teaching English in early 1990s. Stunning neo-Gothic building from 1906 featuring iconic crimson curved staircase, intricate carved woodwork, stained glass ceiling with motto 'Decus in Labore' (Dignity in Work), and elegant bookshelves reaching high ceilings. Entry fee €5-11 (varies by ticket type) is redeemable against book purchases - supports preservation of this cultural treasure. Book timed entry tickets online well in advance as popular slots sell out quickly. Gets extremely crowded - arrive early morning for best experience and photos.

Porto most famous landmark and iconic symbol of the city, designed by renowned architect Nicolau Nasoni for the Brotherhood of Clerics. Standing nearly 76 meters tall, climb 225 steps for spectacular 360-degree panoramic views across Porto rooftops, the Douro River, and out to the Atlantic. The complex includes beautiful baroque church with ornate interior and the Clérigos Museum displaying sacred art. Earned National Monument status in 1910. Entry approximately €8-10 with audio guide available. Visit during golden hour for magical light on city views. Located in heart of historic center, easily combined with nearby Livraria Lello visit.

Working train station transformed into architectural masterpiece and one of Porto most photographed landmarks. Entrance hall features over 20,000 blue-and-white azulejo tiles (tin-glazed ceramic tiles) depicting scenes from Portuguese history including battles, rural life, and the arrival of King João I. Tiles installed between 1905-1916 by artist Jorge Colaço. Completely free to enter and admire - simply walk in and look up in wonder. Still functioning as main city train station connecting Porto to northern Portugal and Douro Valley. Best visited early morning before tourist crowds arrive. Watch for pickpockets in busy areas.

Iconic double-deck iron arch bridge spanning the Douro River, connecting Porto historic Ribeira district to Vila Nova de Gaia wine cellars. Designed by Théophile Seyrig (disciple of Gustave Eiffel) and completed in 1886. Walk across the upper deck (metro line also runs here) for breathtaking panoramic views of both cities and the river below - especially magical at sunset when light bathes the colorful facades in golden glow. Lower deck carries vehicles and pedestrians closer to water level. Free to walk across anytime. One of six bridges crossing the Douro visible from various viewpoints. Best Instagram spot in Porto.

Classic Porto experience sailing along the Douro River past all six bridges connecting Porto and Gaia while admiring the UNESCO-listed Ribeira waterfront from water level. Traditional 'rabelo' boats (historically used to transport port wine barrels) offer 50-minute scenic cruises departing from both Porto and Gaia riverbanks. Cruises typically €15-25 per person. Longer day trips available to Douro Valley wine region with lunch and tastings. Sunset cruises particularly romantic with golden light reflecting off colorful buildings. Multiple departure points along Cais da Ribeira. No booking needed for standard cruises - just show up at dock.