9 Things to Do in Porto During a Month in Portugal's Second City

I've been an expat in Portugal for around six years now, living first on the Silver Coast before moving to my new home in the town of Tavira, in the sunny Algarve.

But there's one city that draws me back again and again—most recently for a month-long housesit (which is a great way to land free accommodation if you know the tricks).

Porto is a lively coastal city in northern Portugal that's often called the country's “second city” since it's the second-largest after the capital city Lisbon.

The entire historic center of this captivating city was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, which means there are eye-catching sights around every corner.

Despite its size, the city center is compact and walkable, although quite hilly. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and plan to fall in love with one of the most enthralling cities in Europe.

This is my guide to what you should do and see while spending a month in Porto.

First tip: The best time to visit Porto is in the spring, before the summer tourists arrive, or in the fall, when the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley glow with hues of orange, crimson, and yellow.

I would also suggest living like a local during your one-month stay by renting a small apartment with a kitchen. A great place to base yourself is Rua da Cedofeita, a flat, pedestrian-only avenue with a spattering of restaurants, cafes, art galleries, a small grocery store, and a picturesque plaza and green space.

Now, on to what to do and see…

1. The Ribeira

This infatuating postcard-worthy neighborhood of Porto is a must-see and favorite for everyone. Admire the Douro River, stroll along the promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, or book a cruise. Meander across the famed Dom Luis I bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit the port wine caves and sample some of the sweet goodness that the city is known for. Soar to new heights above the crowds in the scenic cable car that offers a bird's-eye view of the area.

As you head uphill away from the river, Bolsa Palace dominates the landscape. Formerly used as The Stock Exchange, this national landmark features a lavish array of rooms including the exotic Arab room where country leaders from around the world are welcomed. Guided tours of the palace leave regularly and are offered in several languages including English.

Bolsa Palace was built in the 19th century by the city's Commercial Association.|©iStock/oscar garces

2. Vitória

The focal point of this neighborhood is Clérigos Tower, with 240 steps leading to a panoramic view of the city. The attached church can be visited for free, but a fee applies to enter the tower.

Follow the long line to the famed Livraria Lello, a bookstore where it's been said that J.K Rowling gained inspiration to write Harry Potter when she lived and worked in Porto. Tickets can be purchased in advance.

3. Carmo and Carmelitas

The Carmo and Carmelitas churches form a giant structure that appears as one church but is actually two different churches with a narrow house wedged in between. The hidden house, the narrowest in the world, is just under five feet wide and spread out over multiple levels of living space.

The Carmo and Carmelitas churches. Can you spot the narrow house?|©iStock/ivotheeditors

Locals have speculated for centuries why the house was constructed there. Perhaps because European laws forbid two churches to share the same wall, or it could be to keep the nuns and monks from fraternizing.

4. Parque das Virtudes

The Park of Virtues is a unique, terraced park built into a hillside with spectacular views of the Douro River and Vila Nova de Gaia. The various levels separate the park for privacy, and some feature fountains, ponds, or seating. All create the ideal space to relax, meditate, mingle with the locals, and escape the crowds of tourists.

5. São Bento Train Station

Covered with some 22,000-hand painted decorative tiles, São Bento is considered to be the most beautiful train station in the world. Created by artist Jorge Colaço, the scenes depicted on the tiles tell the story of Portugal's history through the centuries. Connections with other parts of Portugal can be made here, too, since São Bento is a working train station.

Not just a place to transit through. Porto's São Bento train station is a must-see attraction.|©iStock/luisapuccini

6. Mercado do Bolhão

In 1839, City Hall bought land with the intention of using it for a market space. There was a small creek running through the center of the square that formed an air bubble, “a bolhão” which later lent its name to this unusual mercado. While traditional mercados are rather boring this one is very different and must be seen to appreciate.

7. Historic Wooden Trams

For an amusing tour of the city, hop onto one of two routes traveled by the historic wooden trams. The interior of the cars is decorated with polished wood and burgundy accessories. Smiles and giggles will fill the air as the tram goes clickety-clack along the bumpy roads.

The Coles enjoyed a ride on one of Porto's historic wooden trams.|©iStock/TasfotoNL

8. The Francesinha

Adventurous eaters may want to try this local favorite. A towering sandwich created in Porto consists of layers of toasted white bread, a mixture of meats; including beef, pork, ham, and sausage, topped with slices of cheese that are melted by ladling on a hot tomato-beer sauce, and finally crowned with soft fried egg and served with fries.

9. The Douro Valley

While the city of Porto is enthralling, the terraced vineyards in the Douro Valley are even more ravishing. Located a 90-minute drive outside of Porto, your options are to rent a car and venture out on your own, ride the scenic train, or book a tour.

The Douro Valley is just a short distance from Porto and another must-visit attraction on any extended stay.|©iStock/SimonDannhauer

Renting a car is straightforward and roads throughout Portugal are perfectly maintained and easy to navigate. Follow along the National Road 222 from Peso da Régua to Pinhão which offers plenty of spots to pull over and admire the breathtaking views. The sights along this route are captivating, especially in the fall when the leaves seem to blush with enchanting hues.

Various companies offer a combined 10-hour tour that includes a bus ride from Porto, cruise along the river with lunch, wine tastings and return trip. Since port is a fortified wine, typically with 20% alcohol by volume, a tour will allow more tastings with no worries about driving.

Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout Portugal. Smaller shops and restaurants sometimes only accept cash, so it's a good idea to have some on hand.

With so many visitors, there is no shortage of English speakers in Porto, so you will never have to worry about getting lost in the Portuguese language.

While in Porto, Terry sat down with Jeff Wade, an American expat who took the plunge and moved from Miami to Porto during the pandemic.