By Rayford Contreras 
Porto, Portugal’s coastal gem, blends rich history with contemporary charm. At 21 Sensations, we believe travel should be rooted in authenticity and personal experience—not just tourist checklists. Marina and Nicolo have explored every winding alley and riverside corner of this vibrant city, and they’re sharing their top Things To Do Porto like a local.
Whether you’re sipping Port wine by the Douro or chasing sunsets from secret viewpoints, this guide is packed with firsthand insights and trusted recommendations. Ready to dive in? Let’s uncover the real Porto together.
1. Start with a Slow Morning at Fábrica Coffee Roasters
If you’re looking for things to do Porto that go beyond the ordinary, start with a calm morning at Fábrica Coffee Roasters. Locals love it for its specialty brews, minimalist interiors, and welcoming vibe. This is not your typical chain coffee spot—it’s a community hub.
Grab a cortado, pair it with a freshly baked pastel de nata, and ease into your day like a true Portuense.
2. Wander the Backstreets of Ribeira
Yes, the riverside Ribeira district is touristy—but not if you explore it the right way. Instead of sticking to the riverfront, veer off into the back alleys and steep stairways. This is where you’ll discover the real magic.
Some of the most memorable things to do Porto include stumbling across century-old tiled facades, hearing local fado music drift from open windows, and chatting with residents hanging laundry outside their homes.
3. Cross Dom Luís I Bridge at Sunset
A classic that locals never tire of. Walking across the Dom Luís I Bridge during golden hour is among the most iconic things to do Porto. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this iron marvel offers sweeping views over the Douro River.
Our tip? Skip the lower level. Head to the top tier for panoramic views, then wander into Vila Nova de Gaia for an evening of Port wine and local bites.
4. Taste Port Wine Where It’s Born
No list of things to do Porto would be complete without a Port wine tasting session. But don’t fall into tourist traps. Instead, visit Quinta dos Corvos, a small, family-owned cellar in Gaia, for a more intimate experience.
You’ll learn about the heritage of Port, the differences between vintage, tawny, and ruby, and enjoy tastings in a cozy riverside setting.
5. Explore Mercado do Bolhão’s Revival
Freshly renovated yet rooted in tradition, Mercado do Bolhão is one of the top things to do Porto for food lovers. This historic market is a snapshot of local life.
Buy artisan cheeses, cured meats, olives, and handmade souvenirs—all while chatting with the vendors who’ve been here for generations. It’s a perfect place for those who value travel with a personal touch.
6. Escape the Crowds in Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
When you need a breather from the city’s buzz, head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. It’s easily one of the most serene things to do Porto like a local.
This lush green escape offers romantic walking trails, fountains, peacocks, and panoramic views of the Douro. Bring a book, pack a picnic, and stay a while.
7. Eat Like a Local at Casa Guedes
Forget fine dining—Porto’s soul lives in its sandwich shops. Casa Guedes is legendary for its pork sandwich with Serra da Estrela cheese. Trust us, it’s divine.
Locals line up for a reason. If you’re listing things to do Porto for foodies, this must be near the top.
8. Discover Art in Rua Miguel Bombarda
Art lovers, rejoice. Rua Miguel Bombarda is Porto’s contemporary arts district. Packed with independent galleries, concept stores, and design cafés, it’s a creative pulse point of the city.
One of the most culturally rich things to do Porto is joining the district’s art walk—held every two months—when all galleries open new exhibitions on the same day.
9. Climb Torre dos Clérigos (But Visit at Night)
You’ve probably heard about the Torre dos Clérigos, but here’s the local secret—visit at night. They offer evening climbs during summer months, giving you a magical view of the city under the stars.
It’s one of the lesser-known but unforgettable things to do Porto for couples or solo travelers seeking a quiet moment above the city.
10. Ride the Historic Tram Line 1
Skip the hop-on-hop-off buses. One of the most nostalgic things to do Porto is hopping aboard Tram Line 1, which runs from the city center to Foz do Douro.
This rickety wooden tram hugs the riverside and gives you a slow-motion tour of the city’s western stretch. It’s charming, old-world, and completely unique.
11. Visit Foz for a Different Side of Porto
Once you’ve explored the city center, take a tram or an Uber to Foz do Douro, Porto’s chic seaside district. It’s a favorite among locals for weekend strolls, beach cafés, and crashing Atlantic waves.
It’s a different vibe—more relaxed, more refined—and definitely one of the more authentic things to do Porto outside the historic core.
12. Experience Nightlife at Galerias de Paris
Looking for things to do Porto at night? Head to Galerias de Paris street. This buzzing hub of bars and live music venues is where locals meet after dark.
Whether you’re into cocktails, jazz, or just people-watching with a glass of wine, this area gives you a taste of Porto’s vibrant, youthful energy.
13. Browse the Livraria Lello—but Go Early!
Yes, it’s one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Yes, it inspired parts of Harry Potter. But Livraria Lello is worth visiting beyond the hype.
Arrive early in the morning or just before closing for a quieter experience. Among the more touristy things to do Porto, this one’s still magical when done right.
Final Thoughts: Porto, Personally Curated
At 21 Sensations, we believe travel should be deeply personal and immersive. Our list of things to do Porto reflects that. These aren’t just landmarks—they’re moments and places that meant something to us, and we hope they will to you too.
Porto is not a place to be rushed. It rewards the curious traveler—the one willing to stray off the map, strike up a conversation, or follow the scent of baking bread down a quiet street. With these local tips, you’ll uncover the essence of Porto in a way that’s genuine, personal, and unforgettable.
Quick Summary: 13 Local Things To Do Porto
- Sip coffee at Fábrica Coffee Roasters
- Explore the hidden alleys of Ribeira
- Sunset stroll on Dom Luís I Bridge
- Taste Port at small cellars like Quinta dos Corvos
- Browse local goods at Mercado do Bolhão
- Relax in Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
- Eat pork sandwiches at Casa Guedes
- Visit galleries on Rua Miguel Bombarda
- Climb Torre dos Clérigos at night
- Ride Tram Line 1 to Foz
- Chill by the sea at Foz do Douro
- Join nightlife at Galerias de Paris
- Visit Livraria Lello before the crowds