In the northwest of Portugal lies the beautiful city of Porto. Located on the Douro River, Porto’s link to the sea has made it the thriving city it is today, (hence the name “Porto”). While Porto is often considered to be a less touristy alternative to the country’s capital, Lisbon, it still manages to draw people in from all over the world. The city is smaller and less cosmopolitan than Lisbon, but that does nothing to take away from its charm! Here are some of Porto’s highlights!

Sé de Porto

The Sé de Porto is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in the 12th century. It is the biggest church in Porto today. Located next to a scenic viewpoint, visiting the cathedral allows you to not only marvel at the church but take in some great views of the river and little streets below.

Ponte Dom Luís I

Stretching high over the Douro river below, the Ponte Dom Luís I is the most famous bridge in Porto. It offers the best view of the river and city! What makes the bridge unique is that you can walk both on the bottom layer and top layer. The top is also used by the Porto metro, so be on the lookout for trams coming through!

Vila Nova de Gaia

If you’re already on the Luís I bridge, you might as well make it all the way across to explore what the Vila Nova de Gaia has to offer. One of the things you will find is the Jardim do Morros, a beautiful place to get a view of Porto from the other side of the Douro. There is a lot to explore in this area, from markets to Port wine houses to a centuries old monastery!

São Bento Station

In the historic center of Porto, you will find the oldest train station in the city, São Bento Station. Even if you are not taking a train out the station to nearby cities like Braga and Aveiro, you will still want to visit to see the beautiful azulejos covering the inside. 

Igreja do Carmo

The Igreja do Carmo has one of the most beautiful azulejo facades in the city. Along with the azulejos, the Igreja is unique in that it is actually two churches connected by a house in the middle. I can’t say I’ve ever seen that anywhere else!

Bolhão

Bolhão is a neighborhood in Porto that is home to everything from upscale shopping to quaint cafes to the famous Mercado do Bolhão. In this district you will also find beautiful azulejos in churches like the Chapel of Souls and Church of Saint Ildefonso. 

Cais da Ribeira

The Cais da Ribeira is the iconic waterfront stretch in Porto full of colorful houses and restaurants. A trip to Porto is not complete without strolling down the promenade and taking in the view of the Douro.

Livraria Lello

Often considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello was frequently visited by author JK Rowling when she lived in Porto. It is said to have been an inspiration for Hogwarts! The ornate woodwork, stained glass ceiling, and curvy staircase makes you feel like you stepped into another world. This may be the most touristy spot in Porto, so be prepared for a long line and large crowds!

Natas!

Although originally from Lisbon, you will find natas everywhere in the country. Porto is no exception! You will find these little custard tarts in every eatery window and I advise to never pass them up!