Location & Transportation
When you arrive in Porto by cruise ship, you might be surprised to learn that the ships don’t sail up the River Douro. Instead, they dock in the commercial port of Leixões – pronounced something like "Leh-shoys." I’ve been here enough times to confidently tell you that this port is full of character and offers several convenient ways to reach the historic center of Porto.
- The Cruise Terminal is at Dock 1 North, showcasing beautiful 1960s architecture and recognized as part of the Architectural and Historical Heritage of Matosinhos.
- Some ships also dock at the new South Terminal. Both terminals offer continuous free shuttle buses to and from the pier exit.
- You can catch red, blue, or yellow hop-on-hop-off buses to explore Porto. Tickets cost around €10 – a similar fare to the cruise ship shuttle service. Just remember, not every bus stops at the cruise terminals, so you can simply buy a ticket directly from the driver.
- Alternatively, if you fancy a short walk, the Matosinhos Sul Metro tram stop is only 250 meters away. Hop on a train for about a 30-minute ride into Oporto; trains run roughly every 15 minutes, and tickets cost about €2.
- Public Bus 500 is another option, with stops conveniently located near the port entrance.
- Taxis are readily available too – a ride between the port and central Porto usually costs around €20. And if you’re having trouble finding one on the pier, just walk across the bridge to Matosinhos.
Once over the Dom Luís I bridge, you’ll be perfectly placed to step into Porto’s oldest district, Ribeira, and start exploring.
Sightseeing
Porto is a city steeped in history and charm. A stroll through its narrow streets reveals colorful facades, centuries-old buildings, and fascinating local history. Here are some of my favorite highlights:
- Ribeira District: Wander along the riverbank of the Douro, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the maze of cobbled streets, vibrant tiles (azulejos), and the relaxed riverside atmosphere.
- Sé Cathedral & Terreiro do Sé: Start your exploration near the 12th-century Sé Cathedral. The building’s beautiful cloister and the high stone balcony offer amazing views of the city and river.
- São Bento Railway Station: Admire the stunning azulejo panels that tell the story of Portugal’s history at this iconic station.
- Ponte Dom Luís I: Whether you choose to walk across or simply stand and gaze, the views of Porto from this famous double-deck iron bridge are unforgettable.
Tours & Excursions
If you have a bit more time, Porto offers a great variety of tours that let you take in the rich local culture and picturesque views:
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours: A flexible way to discover Porto’s steep streets and iconic landmarks. I recommend getting off at São Bento Railway Station and wandering to the river for a relaxed stroll.
- Guided Walking Tours: Joining a guided walking tour is a fantastic way to learn about Porto’s layered history—from its ancient Roman settlements to its medieval neighborhoods.
- Tram Rides: For a leisurely excursion, take the metro tram that connects Leixões to the heart of Porto, offering scenic views along the way.
You can find more detailed route and timetable information on the Visit Porto website.
Shopping
Porto is a treasure trove for shoppers looking for unique local crafts and quality goods:
- Rua das Flores: This charming street is lined with silversmith shops and boutiques.
- Rua 31 de Janeiro: Known for its excellent leather ware and cork crafts, it’s the perfect place to pick up traditional Portuguese souvenirs.
Whether you’re hunting for handcrafted items or simply enjoying window shopping, Porto’s blend of traditional and modern retail spots will leave you inspired.
Dining
The culinary scene in and around Porto is something you simply can’t miss. The city’s history is deeply intertwined with its food culture:
- Porto Style Tripe: A local specialty with an interesting backstory—historically, locals kept tripe (offering sustenance during lean times) while donating other cuts of meat. Today, enjoying this dish is a nod to the city’s heritage.
- Port Wine: No trip to Porto is complete without a tasting. Visit one of the many cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia for a tour and sample some of the region’s famed fortified wines.
- Many cafés and restaurants in the Ribeira district offer delicious Portuguese dishes, whether you crave seafood, petiscos (tapas), or a sweet pastel de nata for dessert.
Culture & Local Events
Porto’s vibrant culture is evident in its traditional events, relaxed business hours, and the welcoming nature of its locals:
- Local Currency & Business Hours: The locally used currency is the Euro. Most shops open from around 09:00 to 19:00 on weekdays—with shopping centers often open later—as is typical in Portugal. Banks generally operate from Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 15:00.
- Tipping: While not mandatory, a small tip (around 5–10%) is appreciated for excellent service.
- Festivals & Events: One of the city’s highlights is the São João Festival (usually held on the night of June 23). This vibrant celebration features street parties, live music, dancing, and fireworks—a tradition that fills the city with energy and local charm.
- Local History & Traditions: Porto’s unique past—from its Roman origins to its development as the birthplace of a nation—resonates in its architecture, cuisine, and everyday life. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with a local; you might learn a fascinating story about the city’s heritage.