Porto

Porto is Portugal's second largest city and the capital of the Northern region, and a busy industrial and commercial centre. The city isn't very populous (about 238,000 inhabitants in 2024), but the Porto metropolitan area has some 1.7 million inhabitants in a 50-km radius, with cities like Vila Nova de Gaia, Vila do Conde, Póvoa de Varzim and Espinho.

The city is built at the high ground overlooking the Douro River estuary's northern side, and its historical centre was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It has been continuously inhabited since at least the 4th century BC.

Understand

View of Porto from south side.

View of Porto houses

History

Porto (POHR-too, /ˈpoɾ.tu/) was named by the Romans Portus Calle (the origin of the entire present country's name), the city is nowadays officially styled A muito nobre, sempre leal e invicta cidade do Porto (the very noble, always loyal, and undefeated city of The Harbor). This is usually shortened to "a Cidade Invicta" (the undefeated city) a title won because of Porto's unparalleled resistance against hostile troops during the 1820s. Residents of Porto are nicknamed the Tripeiros, or tripe eaters, since the Portuguese conquest of Ceuta in North Africa in 1415, when the city's inhabitants went without meat in order to provision the fleet (which left from Porto), and had to subsist on tripe soup, which developed into a gastronomical specialty of the city.

The city is quite varied architecturally, with medieval and modern buildings side by side. Porto's geography is hard on the feet, but pleasant to the eye. The city's grounds are extremely uneven; the Romans strategically built their fortified settlement into a cliff face that overlooks the river, where the present cathedral stands today. Stairs cut into the stone run up and down the cliff face and offer a laborious but rewarding walking tour. Across the Douro from Porto proper, at Vila Nova de Gaia, are the warehouses of notable Porto wine companies: Cálem, Ferreira, Fonseca, Sandeman, Kopke and others.

The Portuguese usually include the article "o" when referring to the city, "O Porto" (literally, the port). It used to be common in English to write the city as "Oporto", but this spelling has declined in popularity. Nowadays it is rendered in English simply as "Porto" without the article.

While most don't think of it, the influence of Porto's football team had got the city's name in one of Australia's six big fast food stores: Oporto, which still uses the old spelling.

People

Citizens of Porto, while definitely Portuguese, hold themselves apart culturally from the rest of the country, as is expressed in the often heard phrase "o Porto é uma nação" (Porto is a nation). Outsiders often consider Porto to be more crass and mercantile than the rest of the country, and the inhabitants to be somewhat lacking in social graces. This is likely because the city's working and middle classes have historically been dominated by Portuguese bourgeoisie and English trading factions rather than the nobility. By and large, Os Portuenses, to use the correct term for the inhabitants, of course disagree, regarding themselves with some justification as a no nonsense people at the economic heart of the nation. As the saying goes, "Porto works, Braga prays, Coimbra studies, and Lisbon gets the money."

While the local attitude is friendly, to outsiders it is worth noting that locals can respond literally to questions, which may seem slightly off-putting to the uninitiated. An example of this would be to ask in a bar if they have a menu (for food) and to receive a straight 'no' as a response. It's after further questions that one can find out that the establishment doesn't sell food. Such a response is not considered rude, it is merely direct and literal.

If you speak in Spanish to a local, you will be largely understood, and as a rule they will freely converse with you, but from time to time, more so with the older generation, you may be politely reminded that you are in Portugal and the native language is Portuguese.

Climate

Porto has a semi-Mediterranean climate, although it's strongly affected by the Atlantic Ocean, which makes it cooler than other cities with this climate. Temperatures can rise as high as 40 °C in August during occasional heat waves. Winters are mild, rainy and humid, with occasional cold nights when temperatures can drop below 0 °C.

Visitor Information

• 1 Porto Welcome Center, Praceta Almeida Garrett 27, ☏ 351 258 820 270, [email protected]. Apr–Sep: daily 10:00–20:00; Oct–Mar: M–F 10:00–19:00, Sa Su & holidays 10:00–17:00. (updated Jul 2021)
• Visit Porto.. (updated Jul 2021)

Get in

Aerial view of Porto and Douro River

By plane

• 1 Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO  ^IATA, also known as Aeroporto do Porto or Aeroporto de Pedras Rubras) (in Pedras Rubras, about 15 km from the city centre). Porto International Airport is the second-busiest in Portugal, posting a very high proportion of flights and passengers for a European non-capital city.  

This is due to Porto's particular economic importance and growing tourist interest, coupled with northern passenger logistical demand to fly out of Porto directly, instead of going by rail to Lisbon to get on a flight. As a result, Porto Airport is now Portugal's secondary hub for intercontinental flights to Brazil, North America and many European destinations by the Portuguese flag carrier TAP Portugal. Other European airlines are increasingly offering flights to Porto from their main hubs. There is also a growing presence of low-fare carriers, most prominently Ryanair. Porto Airport has connections to all other major airports in Portugal, Madeira and Azores.

Ground transportation from Porto Airport

The Metro line E connects the airport to the city centre, offering a fast and peaceful ride into the heart of the city, for €2.15 (Z4 ticket as of October 2023) €0.60 for the rechargeable paper card. You can buy 24 hours pass for Metro and buses for €7.55 (Z4 - includes the airport). The metro runs from around 06:00-01:00 daily, roughly every 15-30 min. Please be sure to validate your trip by touching the ticket to the prominent yellow sensor devices, placed at intervals in the entrances and inside stations, before boarding a train. When doing so, a flashing green light and sound are emitted. The penalty for being caught without a validated trip is at least €100. It is also possible to use a contactless credit card (VISA or MasterCard only) at the validation sensor on the entire Metro line E - however not on all other lines.

STCP buses 601, 602 and 604 (see STCP airport buses) also connect the airport with the city centre. They operate between around 05:30 and 00:30, roughly every 25 min. STCP also operates a night bus line 3M (Av. Aliados - Airport) every 60 min between 01:00 and 05:00.

Ride-hailing apps Uber and Bolt will take you to the city centre for about €25 (Feb 2024).

Lisbon Airport

Alternatively, you may fly to Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS ^IATA) and get to Porto by train or long-distance bus from the Oriente station there, which is connected to the airport by metro and bus. The journey takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to get from Lisbon to Porto and is operated very frequently (once or twice per hour).

Another airport around is in Vigo. From Vigo to Porto it's about 2 hours by train or long-distance bus.

By train

São Bento Station

The city is served by two major train stations - São Bento terminus station and Campanhã stop over station.

To São Bento station

2 São Bento station is right in the city centre and only served by local trains (Urbanos) and selected Regional and Inter-regional services to Regua and Pocinho. Urbanos (commuter trains) travel in four directions out of São Bento - to Braga, Guimãres, Caíde and Aveiro, stopping at numerous destinations along the way.

To Campanhã station

The 3 Campanhã station is about 3 km east of São Bento on a high-speed line to Lisbon. The long-distance Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains arrive at Campanhã and reach these destinations in the following amount of time, respectively:

• Coimbra to Porto - 59 min (AP) to 69 min (IC)
• Lisbon to Porto - 2 hr 46 min (AP) to 3 hr 9 min (IC)
• Faro to Porto - about 5 hr 45 min (selected AP services only)

From Lisbon, you can board the train at Santa Apolónia, Entrecampos or Oriente. Travelling to Porto from Oriente in the north of the city, and close to Lisbon's Portela airport (within a 10-minute metro ride directly connecting Oriente and Portela) saves 9 minutes from the travelling time. Domestic trains are very frequent and usually on time.

There is only one direct international train from Porto. It's the Celta train to Vigo, Spain. There are two daily trains that take about 2 hr 15 min to complete the journey stopping only at Nine (connection with Urban trains from Braga), Viana do Castelo and Valença. Other international trains (to Paris and Madrid) require a change in Coimbra-B station.

There are various Regional and Inter-regional to Régua, Pocinho, Coimbra and Valença (connection to indirect trains to Vigo besides the Celta services and calling at more stations). There is also a direct night train to Lisbon (there are no direct night trains from Lisbon, as this service is traditionally used by serviceman reporting in Lisbon).

If you have a train ticket to or from Campanhã, you can travel to or from São Bento on urban trains with that ticket at no extra cost. Trains between Campanhã and São Bento take about 5 min.

By car

The city is served by five major highways: A1, which connects Porto to Lisbon, A29 which connects Porto to Aveiro, A3 connects Porto to Braga, A28 connects Porto to Viana do Castelo and the northern Portuguese border, and A4, which goes eastwards from the city towards Vila Real. The IC29 connects Porto to the neighbouring city of Gondomar. The city is also served by 2 ring urban highways, the A41 (still incomplete) which is the outer ring, and VCI/IC23 or A20 which connects all the main places inside the city. The A20/VCI, A28, A29 and A41 are all free highways, but there are plans to install tolls in the latter three, sometime in the future.

Generally speaking, the traffic is usually chaotic and very intense, especially during rush hours.

Parking is difficult for longer periods. Some of the underground car parks offer 72 hours for E20. Motorbikes are free to park in most underground car parks.

By bus

There are many companies providing direct bus trips from major European countries and also for most of the northern cities of the country. Try Rodonorte for timetables. Rede Expressos is the main nationwide express bus service. Visit also Porto Bus Service and Renex.

An international bus operated by the Spanish company ALSA leaves Madrid at 23:00 and arrives in Porto Casa Da Musica at 06:00. It costs around €50 from Madrid and also stops at (among others) Ávila and Salamanca. The return trip leaves Porto at 20:30.

By shared shuttle

There are a few companies providing door-to-door shared shuttle service to Porto. It is a budget option with more personal service than the bus. You can get to Porto from Lisbon with Daytrip shared shuttle or from Coimbra with Coimbra airport shuttle. Prices start at €53, and tickets can be booked in advance to guarantee a seat.

By boat

There is a cargo and recreational harbor called Leixões or porto de Leixões (port of Leixões) in the neighboring city of Matosinhos. Modest-sized cruise ships can dock just outside a drawbridge to the inner harbor. Beneath the south approach to the bridge is a station for the light rail system (see "By Metro" below) that goes to Porto.

There is also a very small recreational harbor in the Douro river. As far as a major method of getting to the city, sea transport is not really a feasible means. However, you can go on scenic tour boats along the Douro river, based especially in the zona ribeirinha of Porto but also on the Vila Nova de Gaia wharf, for one of the most scenic short riverine trips you'll ever make.

Get around

Porto Valley

By car

Porto, like most Portuguese cities, is a nightmare to drive in. Roads vary in conditions - from fully paved to cobbled lanes that can make even the most shortest of distance seem like a go-kart rally. With that said, keep in mind that the tourist parts of the city (the Ribeira and Baixa) are a never ending maze of narrow streets, short tempered drivers and snakelike alleys. Better to walk (despite the fact that it's very hilly). Also, drivers seem to have forgotten how to drive (apart from pushing the pedals) - therefore, they make their own rules of the road (however, this generally does not apply to young drivers). Be prepared to lose your patience several times whilst driving.

By metro

Porto Metro map

Porto Metro is a modern light rail/subway system, which was only constructed at the turn of the millennium and is still being expanded. It has several lines, that run across the centre of Porto, and reach out to surrounding municipalities. It is quick, and probably the most efficient way to get around Porto. Some major areas of the city, however, are not that well served by the metro. Announcements in the metro are made only in Portuguese, though most ticket machines and directional signs are bilingual in Portuguese and English.

Tickets must be purchased beforehand. They can be bought at the machines in the station (if there are no tickets in the machine that day, take the metro to the next station and buy it there!) The ticket is stored on a card called Andante, and you can purchase as many rides (or travels) as you want. Andante is Porto's main ticket system and it is based on somewhat unusual zone system. The city centre is zone C1 and the airport is N10. To travel between places you need to know how many zones you need to cross. Within the same zone or up to another zone you buy Z2 ticket. Z3 for three zones and so on. The Andante card itself costs €0.60 and can be re-used/re-charged, so do not throw it away. You can also buy daily passes or Andante Tour tickets for 1 or 3 days, which may be more convenient.

There is also the option to buy a Porto Card for 24, 48, or 72 consecutive hours which, besides of providing unlimited access to public transportation, includes free access to several museums and further discounts.

If you plan on staying for more than three weeks, it is recommended you get the Andante Gold, Andante's monthly subscription pass. The card costs €6, and will allow unlimited travel with your chosen zones. The Andante Gold, like the Andante Blue can be used in all metro lines, the funicular and all buses. When you are buying the Andante Gold, you must have a picture of yourself (your passport photo will do. They can amplify the image from the passport to the card in seconds).

Your Andante must be validated before you enter the metro, bus or funicular. There are no barriers to stop you at the metro, but the Metro police enter the cars and check your Andante to make sure you have validated it, and are travelling within your zones.

By bus

Magic train trackless trolley offers tours around the city

STCP is the best way to move around if you don't want to waste money on taxis. It's the public bus operator in the region, and the only one operating inside city borders. Suburbs are served either by STCP or private companies. STCP buses are the largest eco-friendly fleet in Europe, modern, comfortable, and lines cover the entire city, as well as major suburbs.

Buses colours are white and blue. Line numbers are a 3-digit code. First digit is assigned according to the destination zone (2-west porto, 3-north porto, 4-east porto, 5-matosinhos, 6-maia, 7-valongo, 8-gondomar, 9-vila nova de gaia). For example, line nr. 906 has its destination in vila nova de gaia (9).

You can use two kind of tickets: Andante (see "Metro" above) or STCP own tickets (you can only use STCP's monthly subscription that costs €47 plus a card). You can also buy single tickets for €1.85. Andante tickets are recommended: you can also use them on metro and suburban trains, plus they're easier to buy and recharge on any metro station or newspaper seller with "payshop" symbol. Andante blue card costs €0.60 and can be charged with how many journeys you like.

Every bus stop has at least a timetable and lines served. There is also a code, so you can get an SMS showing minutes left to next arrivals updated in real time. The SMS cost €0.25. You can also download the Move-Me app that, if you have an internet connection, is free and does the same thing. The busiest ones have electronic displays (though most of them are not working and they're often unreliable) with timetables and city maps. Every bus inside has a display showing the name of next stop as well as its Andante zone (very occasionally the Andante zone is not mentioned however it isn't very relevant since it is probably the same zone as the last stop), so it's easy to keep track of them. The stop and the zone (if it's the first or last stop in it) are announced however this announcements are in Portuguese (Próxima Paragem - Next Stop and Fim de Zona - End of Zone).

Route 500 is probably the most scenic STCP route as it runs along the river and the ocean front. STCP also possesses a fleet of old trams three of which are still in operation, mainly for tourist purposes. Route 1 runs along the river from Ribeira to Foz, route 18 runs from the river towards the city centre and route 22 goes around the city centre. The single tram ticket costs €3 and a 24-hr ticket costs €8 for adults and €5 from children up to 12 years old. While the Andante website claims the ticket is valid on the tram, this is not the case for the pay-as-you-go card.

Some other private companies run services namely to some suburbs however they are often unadvertised and Andante tickets might be of limited acceptance.

By taxi

A fast way of getting around the city, although traffic congestion near the city centre might be a problem. However, be expected to pay a high price for these services, especially compared to the other public transportation such as bus and subway. Uber offer their services in Porto providing both the standard 'UberX' service available in many cities, and a 'Green' option that guarantees you an electric car. Prices are the same for either service.

By boat

There are ferry boats that connect Porto to the neighboring city of Vila Nova de Gaia, although you can easily walk or travel by car, metro or bus to the other side. Also there are numerous tourist boats which travel up the Douro river, where you can get fantastic views of the green landscape the region has to offer.

By helicopter

Not exactly a public transportation, but its a wonderful way to see the city from above. Near the Douro there is a heliport with a helicopter available for people to use to get to know the city as a whole. Travelling accompanied will make the flight cheaper. Exit at Museu do Carro Elétrico stop in the 500 and ZM buses as well as the 1 and 18 trams (see By Bus above).

By Funicular dos Guindais

This is a cable railway system. Use this if you don't wish to walk up the steep streets of Porto. This system connects the 4 Ribeira to the 5 Batalha square, in the city centre (connection with some buses, the 22 tram, metro and trains, the last couple of ones from S. Bento).It also has a panoramic view of the River Douro. A single trip cost €2.50. Monthly Andante tickets (see Metro above) are also accepted; the pay-as-you-go ticket Andante card is not.

By Ascensor da Ribeira

This panoramic elevator runs from the Largo da Lada, and is visible behind the buildings of the Ribeira, close to the Ponte D. Luís.

See

Ribeira and D. Luís Bridge at night

Casa da Música (Music House)

Town hall

Porto is a mysterious city that reveals its charm to the visitor through time. Take your time, wander through the mazes and alleys of the city. Take in the old, bohemian spirit of the city. Hike through the Ribeira and Foz do Douro regions (the latter, at sunset). Porto may not be in every tourist's Iberian Peninsula itinerary, but it's well worth a visit if you want to see a city that has changed economically, but that has kept its old traditions.

If you want to visit several museums, consider the Porto Card which provides free access to several museums and further discounts, optionally also free public transport access.

City centre

• 1 Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace), Rua Ferreira Borges, 4050-253. Daily 09:00-18:30. It was built in the 19th century on the grounds of the destroyed old cloisters of the adjacent São Francisco church. It also contains the most impressive Arab room in the country. There is also a Port wine tasting room. €12 adults, €7.5 concessions. (updated Feb 2024)
• 2 Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral), Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573. This Romanesque cathedral was built in the 13th century. Later on Baroque alterations were made in the 17th and 18th century. The cathedral is on top of a hill from where you also have great views over the city and the river. €3. Combined ticket with adjacent Bishop's palace €6. (updated Feb 2024)
• 3 Port Wine Institute, Rua Ferreira Borges 27, 4050-253, ☏ 351 22 2071669. M-F 11:00-19:00, Sa Su closed. A small exhibition about Port wine and its certification process. Samples of a small variety of Port wines can be bought. Guided tastings and tours to the laboratories can be arranged. Free. (updated Sep 2015)
• 4 City Hall, Avenida dos Aliados. (updated Sep 2015)
• 5 Igreja de São Francisco (Church of Saint Francis) (adjacent to Palácio da Bolsa). A Gothic church with later alterations of the interior decorations in Baroque style. (updated Sep 2015)

Baixa (downtown)

• 6 Mercado do Bolhão, Rua Formosa. Sun closed. A traditional market of fruits, vegetables, fish and meat. As of 2022 the entire market is now open after major refurbishment.  

West Baixa

• 7 Livraria Lello, Rua das Carmelitas (Near Praça dos Leões and the Universidade do Porto). It's an old bookshop with an amazing interior and spiral staircase. Voted as one of the most beautiful bookshops in Europe. Be warned that it can get incredibly crowded and claustrophobic. To get in you have to buy a €5 ticket online (or €6 at the entrance), which can be used towards book purchases. (updated Apr 2017)
• 8 Torre dos Clérigos (Clerics' Tower), Rua São Filipe Nery, 4050-546, ☏ 351 22 2001729. Dily 09:00-17:00. Panoramic views from this baroque tower. 226 steps to the top. It is best to get there early since there is not a lot of space on the viewing platform. You might even have to wait for some time before you are allowed to climb up the stairs. €8 (includes entry to a small exhibition at the lower levels of the tower). (updated Feb 2024)
• 9 National Museum Soares dos Reis, Palácio dos Carrancas, Rua D. Manuel II, 4050-342. Museum displaying Portuguese art. Founded in 1833.  
• 10 Centro Português de Fotografia (Portuguese Photography Museum), Edifício da Ex-Cadeia e Tribunal da Relação do Porto, Largo Amor de Perdição, 4050-008. Housed in a beautiful building in the centre of the city. Free.  

São Nicolau

South city centre

• 11 Ribeira (Riverfront). The part of the city near the river, which is also a good place to start visiting the World Heritage area; to the other side of the river you will see the Ribeira de Gaia, a similar area from the city of Vila Nova de Gaia (the two are only separated by the river) and where you could find the Port Wine Cellars.  
• 12 Museum of Sacred Art and Archaeology of The Higher Seminary of Porto, Largo Dr. Pedro Vitorino 2, 4050-468 (in the Church of St. Lawrence (known as the Cricket Church (Igreja Grilo) after the nickname of the religious order that took ownership in 1780); beginning at the riverfront, head north on R de Mercadores and look for the Igreja Grilo signs directing you into the delightfully narrow streets that lead to the church; best approached on foot), ☏ 351 223-395-020. 
• The 6 bridges connecting Porto to Gaia over the Douro river, many of them providing an excellent view to the river.

West of city centre

• 13 Museu do Vinho do Porto (Port Wine Museum), Rua de Monchique 45-52, 4050-394.  
• 14 Pavilhão Rosa Mota. A multi purpose pavilion with nice gardens to rest, also known as "Palácio de Cristal". (updated Sep 2015)
• 15 Museu Romântico (nearby the Pavilhão Rosa Mota). A house where the King of Italy stayed while in exile. (updated Sep 2015)

Boavista

North-west of city centre

• 16 Casa da Música (House of Music), Avenida da Boavista 604-610, 4149-071 (take the metro lines A, B, C, E or F and get off at "Casa da Música"), ☏ 351 220 120 220 (Box office), 351 220 120 210 (tour enquiries). Designed by Rem Koolhaas and OMA. Guided tour available in English from 1 June - 30 September at 10:00, 11:00, 16:00 and 17:00 for €10/person (free for children under 12) which take about 1 hour. The rest of the year the guided tour is at 11:00 and 16:00. (updated Jul 2018)
• 17 Fundação de Serralves (Modern Art Museum), Rua D. João de Castro 210, 4150-417 (take bus 201 (from 06:00-21:00) Sá da Bandeira — Viso, bus 203 (from 06:00-21:00) Marquês — Castelo do Queijo, bus 502 (from 06:00-01:00) Bolhão — Matosinhos Mercado, or bus 504 (from 06:00-00:45) Boavista — Norteshopping). A contemporary museum designed by the famous architect Álvaro Siza, with a huge garden/park and an Art Deco Villa. When visiting this foundation you can visit the exhibitions, relax at the park, have lunch at the restaurant, bar or tea house and explore the shops or the library. There is also a farm at the southern end of the park. €8.50 museum and park, €4 park only. 50% discount for 65 and Porto card holders. Free on Sundays 10:00-13:00 for students and under 18. (updated Sep 2015)

Foz do Douro

This is the area around the ocean front just north of the mouth of the Douro River. You can rent a bike and cycle along the riverfront and then the beach to that area.

• 18 Castelo Do Queijo (at the western end of Avenida da Boavista). (updated Sep 2015)
• 19 She Changes (Rotunda da Anémona), Monumento ao Pescador Matosinhense. Monumental public sculpture (updated Feb 2017)

Do

• Douro river cruise. Take a cruise upriver (the cost starts at €15 (although they can be slightly cheaper if paired with a different activity) and takes about 50 minutes. Cruises run from 10:00 to 18:30, with sailings every 30 minutes for most operators. There are multiple river cruise operators and you can purchase a ticket from every tourist service and office in the Sao Bento area, or potentially from the wharf itself. Many of the cruises are themed around seeing the various bridges and river-adjacent facilities. You may also choose a day-long cruise starting at €70 to or from Régua, with one way of the journey completed by bus (included in the price). This tour states at 08:00 and returns at 17:00 or 18:00. Go at least as far as Pinhão — the landscape is absolutely stunning. If you choose to do this in the summer, don't forget your factor 30 sunscreen! Look for cruises based on the Vila Nova de Gaia wharf (the same side as the port wine caves), as some of them may offer discounts for cave tours or port wine purchases. (updated Feb 2024)
• Fado Bars. Fado is a music genre originating in Lisbon and considered an integral part of Portuguese music. It is traditionally sung by a woman in a black dress, accompanied by guitar players. A handful of Fado bars stand in Porto, primarily in the Sao Bento area, offering one or two shows per day. The cost is generally €15 (as of June 2022) and tickets for different shows are sold by tourist offices throughout the Sao Bento area. Some shows may include a glass of Port Wine within the cost of the ticket. €10. (updated Jun 2022)
• 1 Teatro Nacional São João (TNSJ), Praça da Batalha, 4000-102, ☏ 351 22 340 19 56 (tour enquiries and reservations), toll-free: 800 108 675. Porto's main theatre and opera production company and venue. There are also guided tours (€5/person) for access to the stage, rehearsal room, dressing rooms and the technical area (if they are not used during the time of the tour). (updated Sep 2015)
• Porto Exit Games (West Baixa; City centre), ☏ 351 914 884 883, [email protected]. You're locked in a room with a mystery to solve and the clock ticking. Can you crack the puzzle and escape? 2-5 players €50 pp. (updated Sep 2018)
• Football: the city has two teams playing soccer in Primeira Liga, Portugal's top tier:

2 FC Porto. Their home ground is Estádio do Dragão, capacity 50,000. It's 1 km north of the centre with its own metro station. (updated Jun 2023)

3 Boavista FC. They play at Estádio do Bessa, capacity 28,200. It's 2 km northwest of the centre, metro Francos. (updated Jun 2023)

Learn

Basic Portuguese language is very much appreciated. English, French, Galician, Catalan, Italian or Spanish may be spoken or understood at major hotels/resorts. For major tourist attractions such as river boat rides or Port Cellar tours, generally the chosen language for a given tour slot is granted on a first-come-first-served basis, if you want a tour to be guaranteed to be in your language, turn up early and request it.

• Fast Forward Language Institute (In the centre of town). Offers a variety of courses in Portuguese language and culture including 3 hour "Portuguese for survival", aimed at foreign visitors to the city. 

Work

Porto is a business, financial and manufacturing centre. Some hotels have conference rooms, some with internet.

The Porto University is the second largest in Portugal by student numbers and its biology, pathology and computer science research departments are top notch. The University's Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia cooperates with well established companies by providing assistance to new companies with business research and incubation support.

Buy

Almost all the shops are open every day, but are usually overcrowded during the weekends and rainy days.

What to buy?

Port wine, of course. This is the right place for it, in the city of Gaia, on the south shore of the Douro River.

The Norte region is known for the passing down of quality craftsmanship traditions from generation to generation while adapting with the latest production and technological innovations. Many of the best Portuguese apparel, footwear, luxury goods and accessory industries are based in and around the city of Porto. Therefore, you will find many flagship stores and factory outlets in and around Porto. The Portuense people know craftsmanship and appreciate quality in whatever it might be, clothing, shoes and leather goods, cars, jewellery, furniture and so on. Brands are numerous and range from globally recognised, like Cavalinho, Charles, Claus Porto, Lanidor and Parfois, to stricly local ones providing for a unique selection on any budget. Many of the more affordable products may not be produced in Portugal, the attractive aesthetic value notwithstanding.

Specialist stores

• 1 Centro Comercial Bombarda (CCB), Rua de Miguel Bombarda 285, [email protected]. M–F 11:00–19:00, Sa 11:00–20:00, Su closed. This is not the regular shopping mall. It's much smaller and with speciality stores related to art and fashion. Look for Portuguese design, organic cosmetics, or contemporary jewellery, and then head to the galleries down the street. (updated Feb 2021)
• 2 Aguas Furtadas, Rua do Almada 13, ☏ 351 223 216 002, [email protected]. Looking for unique objects or original Portuguese design? This is the place for it. From a minimalist Barcelos cockerel to colorful ceramics, you won't find many of these pieces anywhere else. 

Shopping streets

Take a stroll around the Mercado do Bolhão which has a food market and handicrafts stores, and Santa Catarina street (highly recommended, even if only to stroll), which is near Bolhão. Cedofeita street is also a busy shopping street, as well as Boavista.

Shopping centres

For shopping, Porto and the suburbs have plenty of shopping centres, including Norte Shopping, Arrábida Shopping, Parque Nascente, Gaia Shopping and Mar Shopping (the biggest IKEA group shopping in Europe). Apart from these you also have less populated shops that are smaller but still great (Shopping Cidade do Porto, Via Catarina, etc.).

• 3 ViaCatarina Shopping, Rua de Santa Catarina 312–350, ☏ 351 22 207 56 09, [email protected]. M–F 10:00–20:00, Sa Su & holidays 09:00–17:00. A medium-sized shopping centre nestled in a building block between Via Santa Catarina and Rua de Fernandes Tomas, utilising the difference in elevation between them for spectacular results. Inside you will find a slightly mundane selection of chain stores and food court filled with local fast-food options. (updated Feb 2021)
• 4 Shopping Cidade do Porto, Rua Gonçalo Sampaio 350, ☏ 351 226 006 585, [email protected]. M–F 06:30–22:30, Sa Su & holidays 08:00–22:30. An elegant shopping centre with upscale pretences and spacious atrium, but limited selection of stores compared to larger ones. (updated Feb 2021)

Eat

Porto has some of the finest restaurants in Portugal.

It is said that if you like to eat, you should go to Porto because it's a place where you eat well in terms of quality and amount (even Lisbon citizens say that in Porto is where they eat the best food).

The best restaurants of the city are mainly in Matosinhos near the beach, and the Porto de Leixões seaport but watch out for pricing, more than a few ok establishments deem themselves worthy of high pricing just because of the decor or the "in crowd" is seen going there or a combination of both, they charge ridiculous prices for food not much better prepared or presented than elsewhere and many times, the dose is very small, so don't be shy to look around to get a sense of what is what. You can take the blue metro line A to get there which takes about 30 min. In the Ribeirinha part of Porto, overlooking the Douro River and Vila Nova de Gaia, there's many well run very affordable small family run restaurants with a great vibe, friendly staff, great food and drink and sometimes, due to limited space, having to share tables with complete strangers, sometimes local people and sometimes not, making the whole experience very cosmopolitan and entertaining. Within the old city centre, inexpensive to reasonable priced eating houses catering mostly for residents are also easily found for both lunch and dinner, these places welcome foreigners and many take special pride in hosting you. At these places, to enjoy a hearty well prepared meal, it's best practice to just follow the waiter suggestions as the menus are three course set Pratos do dia (Today's menu), normally a choice of two or three soups, main dishes including bread, wine of the house, dessert and a bica (espresso) in the end, all this for €7-10 per person. If you are hungry, a good strategy is to say how much you enjoyed the soup and politely ask if you can have a little more. That's why local patrons tend to have the soup last. If you truly enjoyed the meal, show your appreciation to the chef and staff, it always makes the people proud for being of service.

Expect hearty meals, and if you can, try "Tripas à moda do Porto", a tripe dish. Citizens of Porto are called tripeiros (tripe-eaters) on account of this dish. Traditional set menu restaurants, tend to serve the soup last but these days most waiters will ask what you want first and so on, but don't be surprised to see someone starting with desert and finish with the couvert! It's known to happen. Also try bacalhau - in any way it is cooked - there are hundreds of different dishes with salted codfish!

Don't forget the traditional grilled cheese sandwich called "Francesinha", which literally translated means little French lady. This city is just about the only place in the world where you can find it. However, in many other northern Portuguese cities you can find a low quality version of it. Essentially it is a toast with layers of meat inside (beef, pork meat, ham....) It is covered with cheese and a spicy sauce, with the option of including french fries on top. Most importantly, this dish must be accompanied by beer and not wine.

In July, there is a fish festival in Matosinhos, accessible by bus or subway. Freshly caught fish is served the same day at barbecues lined up in the streets just a few blocks from the main beach. You choose a fish (only whole fish) and they prepare it on the streets for you - not a fancy restaurant, but together with the local people you are eating the best tasting fish you ever had! Try a dourada; it is delicious.

Porto is dotted with thousands of different bakeries (Pão Quente) and pastry shops (Pastelarias). Apart from serving delicious (and quite inexpensive) goods, they are also equipped with a side-cafe that serves all sorts of coffees (Pingo, Meia de Leite, etc.) and sandwiches (Tosta Mista-ham and cheese toastie). Unlike the other river side cafes in the city, these establishments do not have picturesque views of Porto (that's expensive, and in the end, you'd be the one paying for that bill). Instead, they attract tourists by offering good food at very cheap prices.

Most locals drink black coffee (espresso).

There is at least one fully vegetarian restaurant in Porto, Paladar da Alma (Rua de Santo Ildefonso 293/5), and some other restaurants which offer vegetarian dishes alongside non-vegetarian options, such as Capa Verde (Rua da Nossa Senhora de Fátima). Vegans may have to ask for dishes to be specially prepared for them, even in vegetarian restaurants.

Budget

City centre

There are several budget-friendly restaurants around.

• 1 Café Piolho / Âncora d'Ouro (The Golden Anchor), Praça de Parada Leitão 45 (between the Cordoaria park and the Praça dos Leões). The third oldest cafe in Porto, it is commonly known as "O Piolho" (the Louse). The cafe looks out on the street facing a faculty of the Universidade do Porto, and had been a meeting place for students since the 19th century. Plaques donated by graduating medical classes from the early 20th century onward decorate the walls. During the fascist period (1926-1974) it was a regular meeting place of "undesirables" (according to the regimes point of view), and was accordingly under regular surveillance by the secret police. On one occasion it was raided by the GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) who have a post nearby, and they charged their horses into the cafe itself. It is uncertain if the place's current disorder results from this or more recent activities. Service is surly, the place isn't at all fancy, but it is usually stuffed to the gills with students. Its also quite cheap. (updated May 2022)
• 2 Taberna Folias de Baco, Rua dos Caldeireiros 136. A small cozy Portuguese restaurant with a nice ambiance. You can sip on amazing wine while eating delicious authentic food. The manager is very friendly and helpful. (updated May 2022)
• 3 Laurear, Rua da Fábrica 18. Authentic fabulous Portuguese food. Small and cozy place with very friendly service. It's rather small, you have to be lucky to get a table in the evening. (updated May 2022)
• 4 Trinkas Petisqueira Lounge, Praça de Gomes Teixeira 26. Very good cuisine, simple, homemade and careful. Lovely little restaurant, great for sitting by the side of the road and watching the world go by. (updated May 2022)
• 5 Taxca, Rua da Picaria 26. A typical Portuguese tavern, with excellent quality gastronomy products, the atmosphere is fantastic, typical of a tavern, without table service, the hanging hams immediately whet your appetite. One of the best places to snack on Portuguese dishes. The best bifanas in Porto, the sarrabulho porridge, well garnished with meat. The space is super relaxed, and the staff very friendly. (updated May 2022)
• 6 Churrasqueira Brasil, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria 136. Don’t let the outside appearance fool you. This place is a hidden gem. Great homemade food and attention. Very nice place to eat the dish of the day. (updated May 2022)

Bolhão

• 7 Casa Das Tortas, R. de Passos Manuel 181. Great authentic Portuguese food homemade with bakery pastries. A very good place to eat typical food. Best Francesinha in Porto. (updated May 2022)
• 8 Taberna do Doutor, R. da Firmeza 489. Fantastic francesinha and great sardines. Friendly and attentive staff. (updated May 2022)
• 9 A Loja dos Pastéis de Chaves, R. da Firmeza 476. Lovely eatery just off the main shopping street. Genuine food also suitable for vegetarians. The place is nice and chill. They have a really big menu with a lot of options. (updated May 2022)
• 10 Estrela do Oriente, Rua de Fernandes Tomás 405. Excellent, homemade food of very good quality and a family atmosphere. Good grilled salmon and delicious sardines. (updated May 2022)
• 11 Murça No Porto, Rua da Alegria 44. A small and traditional restaurant typical of Porto, one of the few remaining true. Like eating a home cooked meal. Lots of locals are there. (updated May 2022)
• 12 Mr.Pizza, R. de Santo Ildefonso N.233. Street pizzeria for a quick bite. Thin crust and very big pizzas. Nice staff. (updated May 2022)

Mid-range

There are several little restaurants all with great food and service on Rua da Reboleira with great views of the river. Away from the ones mobbed by tourists on Cais da Estiva.

• 13 Casa Da Foz, Rua Padre Luís Cabral, 4150-461 Porto. Excellent Italian restaurant. Wide variety of dishes. Extremely small, so it's best to call ahead and reserve a table. (updated Sep 2022)
• 14 Varanda Da Barra, Rua Paulo Gama 470, 4150-589 Porto. Great restaurant that serves traditional Portuguese, Italian and "International" food. Nice riverside view. (updated Sep 2022)
• 15 Maus Hábitos, Rua de Passos Manuel 178 (at the 4th floor of an old parking garage opposite Porto Coliseum). M-F 12:00-15:00. Vegetarian restaurant by day, youth culture clubhouse at night. Menu changes weekly and costs €9 (€7.50 excluding dessert). 
• 16 Galeria de Paris Restaurante Bar, 56 Rua Galeria de Paris. (updated Sep 2022)

Splurge

• 17 O Comercial, Palácio da Bolsa, Rua Ferreira Borges (São Bento  D ), ☏ 351 918 838 649, [email protected]. M 19:30–22:30, Tu–Sa 12:30–14:30 & 19:30–22:30, closed Su. Elegant atmosphere in the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace). Large windows face the River Douro. They serve Portuguese cuisine tweaked with some new techniques and products. €19-70. (updated Apr 2021)
• 18 Euskalduna Studio, Rua de Santo Ildefonso 404 (Campo 24 de Agosto  A  B  C  F ), ☏ 351 935 335 301, [email protected]. M–Sa 19:00–23:00, closed Su. Service is in a chef's table/degustation style, featuring "10 moments and some surprises". €105-170. (updated Apr 2021)
• 19 MUU Steakhouse, Rua do Almada 149A (Aliados  D ), ☏ 351 914 784 032, [email protected]. 19:00–23:30. This steakhouse's offerings include fish and vegan options. €50-100. (updated Apr 2021)
• 20 Pedro Lemos, Rua do Padre Luis Cabral 974, Foz do Douro, ☏ 351 22 011 5986, [email protected]. M–F 19:00–23:00, Sa 12:30–15:00 & 19:00–23:00. Michelin-starred restaurant in an old stone house with a lovely rooftop terrace. The contemporary cuisine is delivered in the form of tasting menus. €50-135. (updated Jul 2021)
• 21 Antiqvvm, Rua de Entre-Quintas 220, ☏ 351 22 600 0445, [email protected]. Tu–Sa 12:30-23:00, closed Su M. Michelin-starred dining in the midst of a city-centre park with river views. Tasting menus or à la carte. €45-170. (updated Jul 2021)

Drink

Porto is home to port wine of course, and there are many wineries around the city where port wine is brewed. Strictly speaking, port wine can only be called port wine if the grapes are grown in the Douro valley, and the wine is produced and bottled in Porto. Port wines come in many styles, with vintage port being the most expensive.

The main areas for bars are Praça de Ceuta to the north, through the station surrounds to Ribeira further south.

Mid-range

• 1 Solar Vinho do Porto, ☏ 351 226094749, [email protected]. Rua de Entre-Quintas 220. A villa with port samples and a great view of the Douro. Open M-Sa 14:00-00:00. This is the perfect place to sit in soft chairs or outside in the garden and enjoy a few glasses of the finest ports. You can also have cheese with your port. 

Dance clubs

Dance clubs here always start very (very) late, around 01:00-02:00, and end up from 06:00-07:30. You have nice choices to pick from. Most clubs are located in the Industrial region and in the upmarket Foz area.

• 2 Industria, Avenida do Brasil 843, Foz. "Local heroes and international superstars" - going since 1987. It's open until around 06:00. 
• 3 Discoteca Via Rápida, R. Manuel Pinto de Azevedo 567, ☏ 351 910 088 920, [email protected]. Th–Sa 23:50–06:00. A popular disco in the Industrial Area. The nightclub opens Fridays and Saturdays and it's always crowded. The music heard are the latest dance hits and the crowd is 20ish. (updated Feb 2021)
• 4 Passos Manuel, R. de Passos Manuel 137, ☏ 351 22 205 8351, [email protected]. A dance club/bar frequented by the arty crowd, with a varied but tasteful selection of music and a warm decór. (updated Feb 2021)
• 5 Plano B, R. de Cândido dos Reis 30. Near Torre dos Clérigos is a popular art gallery and bar installed on Porto's historic centre. 
• 6 Clube Mau Mau, Rua do Outeiro 4, ☏ 351 22 457 8912. In the Foz region, it is a popular nightclub with varying musical styles, from house to pop to R&B. (updated Feb 2021)

There are some LGBT clubs and bars in Porto. Late night scene.

Bars & pubs

• 7 Ryan's Irish Pub, Rua do Infante D. Henrique 18, ☏ 351 963 041 615, [email protected]. In the Ribeira, nice cozy atmosphere and friendly bar staff. Always a good place to start. (updated Feb 2021)
• 8 Prioridade Bar, R. da Lada 76–78. In the Ribeira region, this bar is one of the cheapest in the area. It's probably the only decent place in the whole of the Ribeira region (and probably, in the city) where you can get a large beer for only a few euros. They also serve spirits and cocktails, at very cheap prices as well. If you are planning a night out, have a few drinks at this bar before clubbing, since the price of drinks in the clubs can be outrageously high and you may find yourself with no taxi fare money to return to your home, hotel, hostel, etc. It's quite tricky to find, since it's tucked away in a rather isolated (but quite nice) place; it's near the D. Luis I bridge. Ask the locals, they'll know where it is. (updated Feb 2021)
• Ribeira region This area is full of bars and pubs where you can have a pleasant time with an incredible view, before going to the bigger clubs around the city. Most bars are relatively close to each other, and in some there is no entrance fee. Usually most of these bars close from 03:00-04:00, after which the area becomes deserted. Be sure to go either home or to a club after, because when this area becomes deserted you may feel a bit insecure.

Jazz clubs

The Jazz clubs tend to open at 22:00 and run to 05:00. They include Hot Five Uptown, and Maus Habitos (Bad Habits) which is a co-working space by day and a club by night.

Sleep

There's residential homes all around the city. There's also a lot of 3-star hotels with very affordable prices. In the city there's only one camping site (Prelada), but it's a bit far from the centre. There aren't many family houses to rent in Porto, so they'll be difficult to find.

Budget

• 1 Alma Porto Hostel, Rua do Bonfim, 305B (by metro exit at Campo 24 de Agosto station to Rua do Bonfim; go up Rua do Bonfim and find us at 305B. By train exit at Campanhã station, go up Rua Pinto Bessa until the church; turn left onto Rua do Bonfim and find us at 305B), ☏ 351 914 049 326, 351 914 306 011, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Small and chill hostel with smooth colours, lounge areas and relaxed atmosphere in a house built in the 19th century where you can also appreciate the hand made works in the high ceilings, the typical Portuguese tiles, and the beautiful camellias in the garden. 
• 2 The White Box House, Rua de Santa Catarina, 575, ☏ 351 911 008 585, [email protected]. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 12:00. A typical Porto house built in the early 20th century, completely renewed in order to combine the comfort of the present with the charm of the past, providing the atmosphere for a perfect stay. 
• 3 Wine Hostel, Campo dos Martires da Patria, 52, ☏ 351 222013167. Very centrally located. Clean rooms with ensuite showers. Very close to the train station, but may be difficult to find, so check a map before arriving. €19. 
• 4 Gallery Hostel Porto, Rua Miguel Bombarda 222, [email protected]. Free breakfast, free walking tour, free nightlife tour. Thematic dinners, Porto wine tastings, Gallery exhibitions. Carefully decorated rooms, multilingual and professional team. €20-22 dorm room with private bathrooms, €50 double rooms. 
• 5 Porto Spot Hostel, Rua Gonçalo Cristóvão nº 12 (5 minutes walk from Bolhao Metro stations). Comfortable, clean hostel with wi-fi, dvd and playstation room, reading room, a well equipped kitchen and a bar downstairs. Great light and showers. Could give Traveller's House in Lisboa a run for its money. €14-18 dorm room with shared bathroom, private rooms around €20 (Mar 2011). 
• 6 Oporto Sky Hostel, Rua da Lapa 33 (One minute walking from Lapa's subway station), ☏ 351 222 017 069, [email protected]. Very comfortable hostel with a very welcoming and helpful manager, Luzia. Shared and private rooms. Free computers and wi-fi. A few minutes from the city centre and just off Boavista, which leads to the coast. Hosts speaks perfect English and Spanish. Prices starting at €14 pp with breakfast included. 
• 7 Pousada de Juventude do Porto (HI Porto), Rua de Paulo da Gama 551. Located outside of the city centre, with several buses passing just by, open 24 hours and a terrific view over the river. 
• 8 Hospedaria 31 de Janeiro, Rua 31 Janeiro 193. Incredibly cheap (€15 for a double) but dirty and dodgy. 
• 9 Hotel Ibis Porto São João, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa (inside Galeria Comercial do Campus São João), ☏ 351 22 551 31 00. Direct at the IPO station above a shopping center. Free WiFi, nice breakfast (although it is the same every day). 
• 10 Residencia Pedra Antiga, Rua de Santa Catarina, 830, ☏ 351 222407467. Cheap, clean and friendly. Bathroom ensuite. Free WiFi. Hosts speak no English though French and Spanish work besides Portuguese. Starting at €13.75 pp. 
• 11 Hotel Miradouro, Rua de Alegria, 598, ☏ 351 22 537 0717. Unique and interesting. 1960s decor all over, amazing views of Porto and the Douro valley, famous panoramic restaurant on the 13th floor where you can enjoy your breakfast while seeing miles and miles of the Porto region below you. Free parking. Bathroom ensuite. Receptionists are very friendly and professional and speak English. The area it lies in is a bit run down, but definitely not as bad as many other areas of the city. From €26. 
• 12 Porto Lounge Hostel, Rua do Almada, nº 317 (next to Av. dos Aliados, in downtown), ☏ 351 222085196, [email protected]. Free Wifi, breakfast included, lockers, bar and common area. €14-20 dorm room with private bathrooms, €40-50 double rooms. 

Mid-range

• 13 Porto Royal Bridges Hotel, Rua de Sá da Bandeira, 53, ☏ 351 222 436 221. 
• 14 Hotel Belver Beta Porto, Rua do Amial, 601, [email protected]. (updated Apr 2017)
• 15 Mercure Porto Centro Hotel, Praça da Batalha 116 (São Bento station approx. 400 m; Bolhão metro 500 m; Guindais funicular 300 m), ☏ 351 22 204 33 00, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Modern 4-star hotel with large rooms overlooking the railway station (those with limited mobility may prefer to arrive by taxi or metro). Rooms have kettles, and price includes reliable wireless Internet access. Good views. 
• 16 Vila Galé Porto, Av. Fernão Magalhães, nº 7 4300-190, ☏ 351 225 191 800, [email protected]. In the centre of Portugal’s “Invincible City”; Rua de Santa Catarina is a few metres away from the hotel. Online booking. 
• 17 Hotel Malaposta, Rua da Conceição, nº80, 4050-214, ☏ 351 222 006 278, [email protected]. Four-floor hotel with contemporary décor located at Porto’s historic and shopping area. Online booking. 

Splurge

• 18 Pestana Porto, Praça da Ribeira, nº 1, ☏ 351 22 340 23 00, fax: 351 22 340 24 00, [email protected]. 
• 19 inPatio Guest House, Pátio de São Salvador nr. 22, ☏ 351 93 4323448, fax: 351 22 085479, [email protected]. 
• 20 HF Ipanema Park Hotel, Rua de Serralves 124, ☏ 351 22 532 2121. (updated Jan 2021)
• 21 Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa, R. do Ten. Valadim 146, ☏ 351 22 040 4000. (updated Jan 2021)
• 22 Porto Palácio Hotel, Av. da Boavista 1269, toll-free: 351 226 086 646, [email protected]. (updated Jan 2021)
• 23 Hotel Infante Sagres, Praça D. Filipa de Lencastre 62, ☏ 351 223 398 500, [email protected]. (updated Jan 2021)
• 24 Tiara Park Atlantic Porto, Av. da Boavista, 1466 (1.6km from Franco station by car), ☏ 351 226 072 500, [email protected]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. 232 guest-rooms with a highly decorated interior. 

Connect

Porto has 4G from all Portuguese carriers. As of Sep 2021, some districts have 5G, with the best signal from Vodafone.

Wifi is widely available on public transport and in cafes. Most hotels in Porto also offer free WiFi access to their guests, either in the rooms or in common areas such as the lobby.

Stay safe

There may be pickpockets in heavily crowded areas and on public buses and trains; however, pickpocketing is not common in Porto. Travelling by bus or metro is generally safe and one of the best ways to go from a place to another.

Porto is generally a safe place to be if you take normal precautions like walking in well-illuminated streets at night.

One part of Porto, near the Tourist Information Office between the cathedral and the steps to the small church, often has drunk people that could cause you trouble. There's no reason for alarm because many of them are inoffensive, but it is best to use some caution, as you would elsewhere.

If you take the main road from the bus station to the cathedral and tourist information centre, walk back to the bus station after you're done and then walk from there to the other sites. Avoid the shortcut from the tourist information centre downstairs because near there have been many incidents there.

Call 112 if you have an emergency.

Go next

The Porto city region is in an ideal position to set up base and explore nearby areas like Vila do Conde, Viana do Castelo, the Costa da Prata, Braga, Guimarães, the Douro river valley and Trás-os-Montes. Railways and buses offer affordable transportation, otherwise, car rental can be a better proposition if one wants to have freedom of movement, but if on a tight budget, try to avoid toll roads whenever possible but register as a Via Verde utilizador. It's easily done at any Loja do Cidadão (just ask a local the whereabouts of the nearest one), costs about €15 and you get a few free tolls worth almost the initial outlay, while subsequent usage payments can be done at ATM machines 24/7, thus saving lots of time going around looking for a post office to pay timeously the outstanding tolls. Late payment incurs penalties.

• Vila Nova de Gaia — lies across the Douro River.
• During the summer, try one of the many quality beaches near Porto, in the southern part of Gaia . Gaia has plenty of beaches with blue flags (Miramar, Aguda, Granja), a certification of the quality of the beach.
• For satisfying your party mood visit some in the neighboring cities of Matosinhos, Vila do Conde, Maia, Penafiel, Amarante, Povoa de Varzim (beach and casino). Matosinhos is a coastal town with several beautiful beaches, as well as a vibrant seafood scene.
• Visit the net target array in Matosinhos. Local legend has it that this is where the Greek Minotaur fell from Avarine, a cloud formation some 17 miles above Greece, with the golden fleece. This led to the formation of the modern day Porto in circa 1970.
• On the south, within easy reach is the Costa da Prata (Silver Coast) beginning at the resort city of Espinho with its beaches and casino, reaching all the way to Aveiro and Mira. Aveiro is a charming coastal city about 75 km south It is known for its colorful canals, traditional moliceiro boats, and Art Nouveau architecture.
• Minho region — Go on a day trip to this region. Guimarães, Viana do Castelo, Braga, Caminha, Valença, Ponte de Lima and Arcos de Valdevez, for instance, all have something to offer, and the region is very beautiful. Taste the "Vinho Verde", freely translated as "Green Wine" - this is mostly a low alcoholic grade, young and fresh kind of wine, that you won't find anywhere else.
• Peneda-Gerês National Park — Go on a day trip to this park. The wildlife and nature in this park are really worth a visit, and the scenery is magnificent.
• Guimarães - a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 50 km east. It is known for its well-preserved medieval center, castle, and historic monuments.

Routes through Porto

merges with ←	N  S	→ Santa Maria da Feira → Coimbra → Lisbon
Vigo ← Braga ← Vila Nova de Famalicão ←	N  S	→ merges with