Porto Travel for Families: Activities Everyone Will Love
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine. Whether you’re here for a few days or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Porto, here’s a helpful guide with essential travel advice to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
1. Explore Porto’s Historic Landmarks
Porto is a city steeped in history, and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with beautiful buildings and iconic landmarks. Start your adventure in the Ribeira district, where you can wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings, small shops, and riverside cafes. From here, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge, one of Porto’s most famous landmarks, for a spectacular view of the city.
Take time to visit the São Bento Railway Station, known for its stunning blue-and-white azulejos (decorative tiles) that depict important scenes in Portugal’s history. For panoramic views of Porto, climb the Clérigos Tower, which offers stunning vistas after a climb up 225 steps. Other must-see attractions include the Palácio da Bolsa and Livraria Lello, a book lover’s paradise known for its beautiful interior and connection to J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for the Harry Potter series.
2. Indulge in Porto’s Gastronomy
Porto is known for its flavorful and hearty cuisine. One Porto travel advice dish you absolutely must try is the francesinha, a sandwich made with layers of steak, sausage, and cheese, topped with a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a local comfort food, perfect after a day of sightseeing.
The city also offers a bounty of fresh seafood, including bacalhau (salted cod) and polvo à lagareiro (octopus). For a traditional Portuguese market experience, visit the Bolhão Market, which has been serving locals and visitors for over a century. While you’re in Porto, make sure to stop by one of the many pastry shops to try the famous pastel de nata—a custard tart that’s perfect with a cup of Portuguese coffee.
3. Visit the Port Wine Cellars
No visit to Porto is complete without exploring its deep connection to port wine. Porto is the birthplace of this famous fortified wine, and you can learn about its production and history at one of the city’s many wine cellars. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to the Vila Nova de Gaia district, where you’ll find several renowned port wine houses, including Sandeman, Graham’s, and Taylor’s.
Many of these cellars offer guided tours, where you can learn about the wine-making process and the history of port, followed by tastings of different port varieties. Don’t miss the chance to sample a glass of ruby or tawny port while taking in the stunning views of the Douro River.
4. Take a Douro River Cruise
One of the best ways to experience Porto is by taking a cruise along the Douro River. These boat tours allow you to see the city from a different perspective, with fantastic views of its iconic bridges and riverside buildings. You can opt for short one-hour cruises that focus on Porto’s historical waterfront or longer excursions that take you into the beautiful Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and scenic landscapes.
5. Public Transportation and Walking
Porto is a compact and walkable city, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Most of the city’s major attractions are within walking distance of one another. However, the city also has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro. The metro is particularly useful for getting to and from the airport or reaching neighborhoods that are farther from the city center. For a nostalgic experience, hop on Tram 22, which offers a scenic ride through Porto’s hills.
6. Best Time to Visit Porto
The best time to visit Porto is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season, with higher temperatures and more visitors. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, visiting in the winter months (December to February) can also be an option, though the weather can be rainy.
7. Venture Beyond the City Center
While Porto’s historic center offers plenty of things to see, don’t forget to explore other areas of the city. Foz do Douro, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean, is a peaceful district known for its beautiful beaches, stylish cafes, and scenic walks along the coast. For culture enthusiasts, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art offers a great collection of modern works, set within a lush park that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Conclusion
Porto is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, cuisine, and wine. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of Ribeira, tasting world-class port, or enjoying the stunning views from the Dom Luís I Bridge, there’s always something to discover. With this travel advice, you’re ready to make the most of your time in Porto and create lasting memories in one of Portugal’s most charming cities.