5 Things To Do When In Porto

Experiencing Porto in only 10 activities barely begins to scratch the surface with everything that this lively and extraordinary city has to offer. From sampling delicious traditional recipes to wandering the windy streets full of cafés and shops, to popping into art galleries, there are many things that will keep visitors happy. Here are 5 suggestions for the top things to see and do.

* Experience Livraria Lello

This bookstore is one of the most beautiful in the world and has become extra famous as one of JK Rowling’s favorite haunts when she lived in Porto (and began developing the Harry Potter series). There is no doubt that the Livraria Lello & Irmão, which has been in business since 1906, is one of Porto’s most popular and busiest landmarks; there is even a cover charge to enter. Centrally located, near the locals’ favorite Piolho Café and a block from Igreja do Carmo, it’s easy to find, but be prepared to stand in a line to enter.

* Visit a wine cellar

Porto is a city famous for wine, and not only Port. Where Port is produced in the Douro Valley, Vinho Verde is made closer to Porto (and north of the city, too). The wine cellars, offer different bottles to sample and there are many cellars to choose from. Most of the best, like Graham’s Port Lodge and Taylor’s Port, are in neighboring city, Vila Nova de Gaia.

* Appreciate the city’s azulejo art

Azulejo tiles are unique to Portugal in the way they are used to decorate buildings, streets, and homes, and this is especially noticeable in Porto. A few landmarks popular for their stunning artistic and cultural mosaics include the Estação São Bento, the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, and the Igreja do Carmo. To see some amazing displays, you won’t need to try hard because azulejos are practically everywhere in the city.

* Grab a drink along the Douro River

Porto’s Ribeira is one of the most popular neighborhoods, lined with café after restaurant after café and offering spectacular views, including sunsets over Porto’s bridges. Sit outside on a terrace to partake in the coffee culture or enjoy a glass of wine or beer. There is plenty to do and see along the Ribeira but simply relaxing and watching the world go by (perhaps while also enjoying a delicious pastry?) is an experience that’s hard to beat.

* Picnic with a view

Porto is full of splendid terraced gardens, where locals and visitors can go for a walk or just sit and enjoy the jaw-dropping views. Pack a picnic (perhaps with cheeses, hams, and fruits from the locally well-known Bolhão Market or other traditional treats from A Perola do Bolhão) and sit outside.