Pleasures of Porto

Serralves - It is a nearly 45-acre complex that houses a modern art museum, botanical gardens replete with sculptures and a perfectly preserved Art Deco mansion. Go early and plan to spend a few hours there.

Livaria Lello — Deemed “the most beautiful bookstore in the world” Livarai Lello is famous for its curvy, wooden staircase and intricate detailing and a stunning stained glass ceiling. A timed entry ticket is required — the earlier you can get a ticket the better as this place is always packed.

Capela das Almas — Porto is filled with churches covered in stunning blue and white azulejos (tiles), but Capela das Almas is one of the most beautiful and photographed. Depicting various scenes from the lives of saints, it is worth a visit. If you want photos devoid of other tourists, get there as the sun is rising.

Torre dos Clérigos - At nearly 250 tall Clérgios Tower dominates the Porto skyline. Make sure to check out the church and the various exhibitions before making your way to the top of the tower. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Porto and the Douro River.

Ribeira - Porto’s Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, and for good reason. Filled with narrow and winding alleys, this neighborhood is fun to get lost in. The houses are colorful and full of life (while it’s a popular tourist spot, it’s still very well loved by the locals). The waterfront is filled with restaurants and shops and is a great spot for nightlife.

Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge — The double-deck metal arch bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Porto and connects Riberia and Gaia. Views abound from either level. I recommend crossing on one level and making the trek back on the other, to cover all your bases.

Sé do Porto — Dating from the 12th century, Porto’s Cathedral is the proverbial fortress on the hill. Combining various architectural styles, the Sé is an important historical and cultural site in Portugal. While the exterior is more imposing and austere than Porto’s tiled churches, the interior (featuring a stunning rose window) is worth a tour.

Crystal Palace Gardens - The most beautiful park in Porto. Built into the side of a clifftop, the Gardens are a labyrinth of terraced, manicured designs and stunning views of the river. An oasis in a busy city. Make sure you keep an eye out for the peacocks that call the Gardens home.

Rua das Flores — Porto’s high street. This street is filled with trendy stores and restaurants. Make sure you check out Claus, a beloved soap and perfume store that's been operating since 1887.

Vila Nova de Gaia — Just across the bridge is Villa Nova de Gaia, Gaia for short. Dotted with dozens of port wine cellars, this is the place to take in the local specialty. Take the Cable Car for some stunning views of the river and the aforementioned Ribeira.

Castro - Pasteis de nata are a Portuguese staple, and Castro is one of the best places to sample this delicacy. The pastries are baked on site, and diners can watch the process from start to finish. Get there when they open and enjoy fresh out-of-the oven tarts — there’s no better way to start your day!

Mercado de Bolhao — Housed in a beautifully restored neo-classical building, this market has been an important part of Porto’s history since 1914. Known for its produce stalls, you can also enjoy a bite at one of the 10 restaurants now on site.

CUFRA - An old-school brasserie, this is one of the best spots to sample an iconic Porto dish, the Francesinha. A supersized take on the croque-monsieur it combines two giant slices of bread interspersed with sausage, ham and steak and drenched in a cheesy gravy sauce, all topped with an egg. Come hungry.

Cafe Santiago — Another unassuming tavern highly rated for its Francesinha.

Cafe Majestic — Located on the busy Rua de Santa Catarina, this Belle-Epoque Cafe has been in operation since 1921. Grab the Torrijas (French Toast) and a coffee and be transported back in time.

Euskalduna Studio - Chef Vasco Coelho Santos worked at some of Spain’s top dining establishments (among them the beloved El Bulli) before returning to his hometown to open Euskalduna, which earned its first Michelin star in 2022. Inspired by different global cuisines but rooted in a love for Portugal (all ingredients are sourced locally) Euskalduna is worth a visit.

Casa Expresso - An unassuming exterior housing delicious food. Casa Espresso serves authentic Portuguese cuisine at reasonable prices. This is where the locals go to dine.

Casa de Chá da Boa Nova — Located in a home designed by a world-renowned architect with stunning views of Leça da Palmeira beach, Casa de Chá da Boa Nova is deserving of its two Michelin Stars. Helmed by Rui Paula, the restaurant is a love letter to Portuguese seafood.

A Cozinha do Manel - This place has been run by the same family for almost 40 years. It is loved for its traditional Portuguese food, including cod that you must try. Recommendations recommended.

Adega São Nicolau — This small restaurant, tucked away in an alley of the Ribeira is a Porto must-try. Standout dishes include anything with the Octopus. Make a reservation, come early or be prepared to wait.