Olá, travelers! Planning a trip to Porto soon? While the city’s famous landmarks are must-sees, there’s so much more to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. To help you experience the real thing, we’ve put together a guide to stuff to do in Porto that goes far beyond the typical tourist trail.

Stuff to Do in Porto

From stunning views to delicious local eats and hidden gems, stay with us and fall in love with the real Porto with this list of things to do in the city.

Golden Hour Magic at Passeio das Virtudes

For some of the most magical sunsets in Porto, head to Passeio das Virtudes. This spot offers dreamy pink-and-orange sunsets over the Douro River. Grab a Portuguese craft beer at the nearby Musa das Virtudes Bar, settle in among the locals, and let the city’s authentic rhythm wash over you. It’s not fancy, but it’s pure Porto charm.

Dare to Try Porto’s Namesake Dish: Tripas à Moda do Porto

While tourists flock to Francesinha (and rightfully so!), true Porto adventurers seek out the dish that gave us our nickname: tripeiros (tripe eaters). Tripas à Moda do Porto is our city’s culinary DNA, a hearty stew that tells the story of Porto’s resilience and resourcefulness. Head to Abadia Restaurant for a full and authentic experience.

Escape to Atlantic Bliss at Matosinhos

Who says you can’t have beach and city in one day? The metro whisks you from downtown Porto to Matosinhos in just 30 minutes— from urban energy to Atlantic serenity. Feel the salt air fill your lungs, dig your toes into golden sand, and when hunger strikes, head to Tito 2 Restaurant for grilled fish (so fresh it practically swims onto your plate). This is how Porto locals do it!

Early Morning at Bolhão Market

Step into Bolhão Market early in the morning and you’ll witness Porto’s food culture in its purest form. The women running the stalls are walking food encyclopedias who love sharing their knowledge. Loud, colorful, and bursting with life. It’s why we’ve built our entire Downtown & Bolhão Market Food Tour around this incredible space.

Venture Beyond: Northern Portugal Awaits

Porto is your gateway to Northern Portugal’s hidden gems: medieval Guimarães, spiritual Braga, canal-laced Aveiro, historic Coimbra, and the vine-terraced Douro Valley. All are accessible by train within one or two hours. Each destination offers its own flavors, stories, and authentic experiences that complement your Portugal adventure.

Cultural Immersion at Casa da Música

The building itself is a work of art, and the acoustics will give you goosebumps. For music and architecture lovers, this iconic venue is an experience not to miss. Check their program and let Porto’s musical soul move you.

Local Arts Scene: São João Theater & Cinema Trindade

Want to experience Portuguese culture like a local? Catch a performance at the stunning São João National Theater or discover Portuguese cinema at the intimate Cinema Trindade. Both often offer English subtitles and provide a great way to soak up Portuguese culture in a local setting.

Don’t Visit São Bento Station During the Day

São Bento Train Station is an art gallery disguised as a transport hub. Over 20,000 hand-painted azulejos transform waiting for a train into a journey through Portuguese history. Don’t rush this one. It’s stunning. For a more peaceful experience, visit at night to avoid the crowds and enjoy the place almost entirely to yourself. If you need a private guide, reach out to us and book a Porto Beginners Guide. It’s like having your own personal guide leading you through this living museum.

Secret Views at Miradouro da Vitória

While tourists crowd the famous viewpoints, locals know about Miradouro da Vitória. From here, Porto unfolds like a love letter: terracotta rooftops cascading toward the Douro, church spires piercing the sky, and the river weaving through it all like liquid gold. It’s where we bring friends to show them why we never want to leave this place.

Conquer Torre dos Clérigos

Ready for a challenge? The Torre dos Clérigos demands 240 steps and rewards you with 75 meters of elevation and views that make your heart sing. The climb up this 18th-century tower is worth every step, and the vista from the top reminds you why Porto deserves a second, third, and fourth visit. Plus, there is a free pipe organ concert at noon on most days.

The Perfect Porto Finale: 30-Year Tawny Port

Here’s insider wisdom: Port wine is a liquid dessert, not dinner wine. After your evening meal, treat yourself to a glass of 30-year Tawny Port. Our favorite spot? Prova Wine Bar, where excellent wine meets great music and even better company. It’s how every Porto day should end.

Looking for More Stuff to Do in Porto?

This is just the beginning of your Porto food journey. For deeper dives into where locals eat, drink, and celebrate, explore our complete Porto Food Tours menu. This stuff to do in Porto represents more than activities. They’re invitations to experience our city’s authentic soul. Come hungry, leave fulfilled.

With love and appetite,
The Taste Porto Foodie Team