Local Experiences to Have When Visiting Porto

Porto, a divine blend of historic grandeur mixed with a trendy, hip, young scene. A city where the arts are celebrated and creative boundaries are pushed to new limits. Here you can be treated to Portuguese hospitality first hand and have each of your senses satisfied while exploring the scenic views this hilltop city provides.

Largo da Pena Ventosa, RUA Tapas&Music Bar, Fernandes, Mattos & Ca., Lda., Teatro Carlos Alberto, São Bento Station, Santini, Igreja do Carmo, Livraria Lello, Candelabro, Teleférico de Gaia - Estação Cais de Gaia, Nicolau Porto, Fábrica da Nata, Ó! Galería, Subenshi Porto, Cruzeiros no Douro

• Largo da Pena Ventosa in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Appreciate the colorful curves and dips in Portuguese architecture while wandering around this neighborhood. The tight alleyways lead to sprawling views of the city and river below.

• RUA Tapas&Music Bar in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Beers less than a euro and nightly musical performance create a lively environment that pours into the street nightly. You can hear patrons singing along to famous Portuguese songs all throughout the neighborhood.

• Fernandes, Mattos & Ca., Lda. in Porto, Portugal

  
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  A store selling both local and foreign goods. The true treat is the interior. This former bank turned retail store sports ornate details, dark wood and a grand, photogenic staircase.

• Teatro Carlos Alberto in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Appreciate the Portuguese love for theatrics at this small, intimate theatre. Performances rotate and vary between different political, social, and cultural themes.

• São Bento Station in Porto, Portugal

  
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  This open-air train station will give you a perfect first impression of Porto. Blue skies highlight the buildings surrounding the station and the azulejos on the inside depict various moments in Portuguese history.

• Santini in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Getting just one scoop of locally made ice cream will be impossible here. With flavors like passionfruit, Brazilian chocolate, and banana-nut caramel, you won’t know which delicious flavor to choose.

• Igreja do Carmo in Porto, Portugal

  
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  An iconic spot in Porto. Celebrated for the artistry of the exterior of the building which is covered in the traditional blue and white tiles known as azulejos.

• Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Book lovers and Harry Potter fans rejoice! Built in 1906, this bookstore often tops the lists for the greatest bookstores in the world. It’s also said to have given J.K. Rowling inspiration for Hogwarts. This neogothic style bookstore will leave your eyes dazzling.

• Candelabro in Porto, Portugal

  
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  A local favorite for a copo at the end of the day. The dark, intimate interior has romantics returning often and the outdoor seating allows for an afternoon spent people-watching.

• Teleférico de Gaia - Estação Cais de Gaia in Porto, Portugal

  
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  The Dom Luís I Bridge is a symbol for the city and the best way to view it is from the opposite side of the river. This spot provides a jaw-dropping view and a ride on the cable cars during sunset is unforgettable.

• Nicolau Porto in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Sit amongst lush plants and bright decor while you enjoy brunch with friends or a coffee while working. Healthy, light, and mouth-watering every item on the menu is worth trying!

• Fábrica da Nata in Porto, Portugal

  
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  It wouldn’t be a trip to Portugal without trying the famous egg custard known as a pasteis de nata. Enjoy this country’s favorite treat in Fábrica da Nata’s elegant, blue, plush couch lined interior upstairs.

• Ó! Galería in Porto, Portugal

  
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  An excellent art gallery boasting a bright collection of both local and international artists. A celebration of modern art with a rotating, colorful display.

• Subenshi Porto in Porto, Portugal

  
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  A former mansion turned restaurant, the unique decor of each dining room found at Subenshi is as equally pleasing as the superb Asian fare.

• Cruzeiros no Douro in Porto, Portugal

  
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  Anyone will tell you the best way to enjoy the eclectic views of the city is by sailing along the Douro River on a 7 bridges cruise. An inexpensive, must-do on a sunny day!