Porto
Time to the official Presentation of Porto in Portugal
Porto, located in northern Portugal, is a cool city with a lot going on. With about 250,000 people living here, it’s smaller than Lisbon but packs a punch with its rich history and lively culture. The average annual temperature is around 14°C (57°F), so it’s generally mild, though it can get a bit chilly in winter.
Porto attracts a steady stream of tourists each year who come to enjoy its stunning architecture, famous wine, and charming riverside areas. Whether you’re into historic sites, modern attractions, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s plenty to explore.
The best time to visit Porto is during the spring or fall. The weather is comfortable, and the city isn’t overrun with tourists. These seasons give you the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and a relaxed vibe to fully enjoy all that Porto has to offer.
Porto central train station
Luis I Bridge in Oporto
Arriving to Porto
Porto, a charming city in northern Portugal, is super easy to get to. You can fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is just a quick 20-minute metro ride from the city center. If you’re coming from other parts of Portugal or Europe, there are also trains and buses that can drop you right into Porto’s heart.
For where to stay, check out Ribeira, the historic riverside neighborhood with its narrow, cobblestone streets and picturesque views. It’s perfect if you want to be close to all the action and enjoy some fantastic local food and nightlife. Cedofeita is another great spot, offering a mix of modern cafes, local shops, and easy access to downtown. If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, Foz do Douro is where you’ll find beautiful beaches and a chill atmosphere.
Getting around Porto is pretty straightforward. The city’s metro system is reliable and covers most major spots you’ll want to visit. Buses and trams are also handy for exploring, and they offer a more scenic way to travel. Walking is a great option in the historic areas where there’s a lot to see.
Porto’s food scene is amazing. You’ve got to try the Francesinha, a local specialty that’s a loaded sandwich with meat, cheese, and a rich, savory sauce. Seafood is a big deal here too—fresh fish and grilled sardines are top picks. And of course, you can’t leave without tasting some local port wine.
There’s plenty to see and do in Porto. The Livraria Lello is a must-visit—it’s a bookstore that looks like something out of a fantasy novel. Climbing the Clérigos Tower gives you stunning views of the city. The Ribeira District is perfect for wandering around, with its beautiful riverfront and lively atmosphere. And don’t miss the São Bento Railway Station for its amazing tile murals.
For some unique experiences, take a boat tour along the Douro River to see the city from a different angle. Art lovers should head to the Serralves Museum, which has a great collection and lovely gardens. If you have time, a day trip to the Douro Valley for wine tours and beautiful landscapes is totally worth it.
Accomodation
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Currency: The official currency of Porto is the Euro (EUR). 1 € is equivalent to 1.09 USD.
Keep in mind before travelling to Porto
Porto has some awesome festivals throughout the year that you definitely want to check out.
First up is São João Festival (June 23-24), a huge street party with music, dancing, and fireworks to celebrate the city’s patron saint. In August, Festas de Nossa Senhora da Assunção brings a mix of religious events and lively street fairs. Christmas Markets (December) transform the city with festive stalls and holiday cheer.
Festival de Cinema Português (April) is a must for film buffs, showcasing the best of Portuguese cinema. Festas de São Pedro (June 28) celebrates the city’s maritime history with parades and local traditions. Música no Coração (September) is a fantastic music festival featuring a range of genres. Finally, Festa da Senhora da Agonia (August) offers a glimpse into local culture with traditional dances and colorful parades.
For day trips, you can explore Douro Valley for its stunning vineyards, Braga for its historical sites, Guimarães for its medieval charm, Aveiro for its canals and architecture, Peneda-Gerês National Park for nature and hiking, and Espinho for beautiful beaches and seaside fun.
Tips to visit Porto
Porto, known for its lively charm, is home to the Portoenses. When you’re meeting locals, a casual “Olá” or “Bom dia” is perfect. Most people speak Portuguese, but English is pretty common in tourist areas.
Meal times follow the usual Portuguese schedule: breakfast from 8-10 AM, lunch from 1-3 PM, and dinner starting around 8 PM. Businesses usually open from 9 AM to 1 PM and then 3-7 PM. Tipping isn’t a must but is appreciated; leaving a tip of 5-10% is a nice touch if you’re happy with the service.
Porto’s healthcare system is public, offering a range of medical services. As for dress code, Porto has a relaxed yet stylish vibe—smart casual works best. You might hear locals say “Que giro!” to express something is nice or “Força!” to cheer someone on.
