Things to do in Porto for self travelers

Explore Porto at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour crafted by a local guide! The city of Porto is known as the Cidade Invicta (Never Conquered City) and as the Northern Capital. It is a city known worldwide for its wine, bridges, ancient architecture, beautiful historical centre, and also the quality of its restaurants and cuisine. The highlights of this tour are the Clérigos Tower, the Cathedral, the Historical Centre, the Bolhão Marketetc. Moreover, you will get special recommendations on the best wine cellars in the city. Enjoy the marvelous city of Porto through the eyes of a local!

This self-guided audio tour unveils the rich tapestry of Porto, offering an immersive experience into its storied past and vibrant culture. Perfect for history enthusiasts and culture seekers, the tour delves into the heart of this Portuguese city, revealing its architectural marvels and historical significance. The journey begins at the monumental Porto Cathedral, steadily unfolding the city's evolution through 17 captivating stops, and concludes with the splendid blue-tiled Igreja dos Carmelitas. Along the way, you will wind through the Ribeira District, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and stand before the soaring Clérigos Tower. From the bustling Mercado do Bolhão to the scholarly atmosphere of the Livraria Lello, the route traces a path through the very core of Porto's identity. Engage with the city's maritime history, witness the grandeur of the Igreja de São Francisco, and stroll through the enchanting streets peppered with azulejos. The finale of your odyssey is not merely a point on a map but a collection of visual and auditory delights waiting to be discovered. Expect to be captivated by stories you can see—like the facade of the Igreja do Carmo covered in azulejo tiles and the unfurling vistas from the Dom Luís I Bridge. Enjoy a sensory retreat as Porto's history whispers from its weather-worn stones and its culture bursts forth from the vibrant street scenes.

Dive into Porto’s rich cultural and historical roots with this self-guided walking tour. Perfect for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, this tour unveils the city’s Jewish heritage while showcasing remarkable landmarks and panoramic views. Learn fascinating stories of resilience, faith, and transformation as you explore iconic sites across Porto. The journey begins at Porto Cathedral, perched atop one of the city’s oldest hills, and winds through notable stops such as the Convento dos Grilos, Rua Sant' Ana, and the Church of Our Lady of Victory. Traverse narrow streets full of history and climb stairways leading to stunning viewpoints like Miradouro da Vitória. The tour comes to an end at the peaceful Parque das Virtudes. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems including ancient synagogues, remnants of Jewish quarters, and sites tied to the city’s historic economic activity. Admire architectural details, serene gardens, and panoramic views of Porto’s rooftops and the Douro River. This enriching journey offers a blend of history, cultural discoveries, and breathtaking visuals, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Porto's intriguing past.

Welcome to this exploratory journey through Porto, a city brimming with history and charm. This self-guided audio tour is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by Porto's blend of architectural grace and historic narratives. Start at the illustrious Majestic Café and culminate your exploration at the grand Arrábida Bridge, with its magnificent views across Porto. Your route weaves through the city's fabric, passing by the storied Clérigos Tower and wandering over the Dom Luís I Bridge to Liberdade Square, where you'll stand before the Monument to King Peter IV. Porto Cathedral awaits with its ancient grandeur, followed by the majestic bookstore Livraria Lello. During your walk, the São Bento Railway Station's azulejo tiles tell tales of Portuguese history, just as the gothic Church of Saint Francis and the neoclassical Stock Exchange Palace echo the city's bygone eras. As you stroll, you'll gather memories from the vibrant streets, the echoes of artistic conversations, and the panoramic vistas that define Porto. The finely crafted details of historic buildings, the layered tales embedded in azulejos, and the timeless presence of the Douro River will culminate in an unforgettable sensory memoir of this coastal jewel.

Ever wondered what it's like to sit high amongst the tree tops? Well, wonder no more and roam through the canopy of Serralves Park! You'll see Portuguese flora, like stone pine and cork oak, as well as exotic species such as liquidambars and giant sequoias. Down on the ground, take time to explore the park's 18 hectares and some 8,000 specimens of plants representing close to 230 species. Sculptures from the Serralves Foundation's collection dot the park too, so keep an eye out.

Experience a spectacular 5D flight over Porto for all family. Hop on the back of a Dragon and see the city from its point of view! On this unforgettable ride, you will feel the wind on your face, enjoy incredible views, and see the iconic buildings like never before. During this 10-minute experience, you'll notice that time flies when you're having fun!

Step right into the vibrant tapestry of culture that is Vila Nova de Gaia at WOW! Nestled on the banks of the Douro River, WOW is a bustling cultural district teeming with museums, eateries and exhilarating experiences you won't forget. Peek into the world of curiosity with a combined ticket that provides access to any five of WOW's captivating museums, all while saving a shiny dime! The best bit? There's no need for planning ahead, just follow the rhythm of the day. Whether an aficionado of wine, devotee of chocolate, or a history enthusiast, there's a WOW museum that's just the ticket! Options include The Chocolate Story, Planet Cork, The Wine Experience, Pink Palace, The Art of Drinking, and Porto Region Across the Ages.

Visit the 3D Fun Art Museum in Porto, which features various sets and scenarios perfect for taking photos and videos. Capture unique images to share on social media or keep as souvenirs and get assistant from the staff to explore the museum.

Start your day in the WOW cultural district, a hub of museums, restaurants, and engaging activities in Vila Nova de Gaia, right by the Douro River. Whether you love wine, chocolate, or history, the WOW museums have something for everyone. Choose from options like the Chocolate Story, Planet Cork, the Wine Experience, the Art of Drinking, and Porto Region Across the Ages. Afterward, explore the 300-year-old Taylor’s cellars, a must-visit for any port wine enthusiast. Learn about the rich history of one of the oldest port houses and discover the secrets behind the making of this delicious drink. Finish your day with a tasting of some of Taylor’s finest wines, all while enjoying scenic views of Porto.

Add some magic to your Porto trip with an off-the-rails train journey, and explore the culture of Portugal. Travel around the city's famous architecture and see the best of the historic center. After taking some photos, it's time for a wine tasting. Learn more about the city's fortified wine – Port – inside one of Porto's oldest wine cellars, and enjoy some samples. Back aboard the train, you'll see more sights including the Carmelitas Church, not far from the famous Lello book store.