Things to do in  Porto

The northern city of Porto is famous for its wine. Its placement at the edge of Portugal's Douro River made it a key location for wine transportation. In centuries past, wooden rabelo boats transported the barrels into the city for storage in large in-town cellars—ones that you can visit today.

Two to three days is sufficient to visit Porto before you head off to a Douro Valley wine tour. In Porto, take a city tour of the top landmarks such as the Clerigos Tower and Dom Luis I Bridge, and try a tasting tour to sample local dishes and wines.

Porto and Lisbon each provides its own charm. Lisbon, the capital, is the busier of the two. Porto is a bit more on the alternative side, with various art galleries; whereas Lisbon is more traditional, home to several government buildings and national museums.

When visiting Porto, it’s important not to miss a tour of at least one port wine cellar. There are several in the city, each with its own take on the fortified wine, and visitors can enjoy tours of the facilities followed by tastings of the sweet drink.

No. Porto is not expensive in terms of European cities. Most tourists find meals and drinks especially affordable. Portuguese cafe meals with a drink won't break €15. Beers run a couple of euros at most bars and you'll pay a bit more for a glass of wine or a cocktail.

Portuguese people love to eat, and many locals spend evenings and weekends having meals with family and friends. When they’re not eating, Porto locals can be found strolling the city, enjoying the views at one of the many miradouros (viewpoints), or having a glass of Douro wine on a terrace.