Experience Porto Like a Local - Our Top Guide For Two Days in Porto
Porto is truly a captivating city that easily mesmerizes visitors with zero to no effort. With endless beauty, and cobble-stone streets packed with centuries worth of history, what’s not to fall in love with? Visiting Porto on a time crunch, may not be ideal, but it can be reality for many. In either case, we’ve got you covered! See our below tips for experiencing Porto "like a local."
The Douro River is often referred to a “river of gold,” due to the gold-like reflection of the water.
Image by Ken Welsh / Getty Images
The Dom Luís I Bridge is a sight in its own right, especially because it was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Plus, at the time of its completion in 1886, this bridge was the longest iron arch in the world. The bridge is a double-deck metal arch bridge that spans the River Douro between the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia in Portugal.
I'll start by saying, technically I'd recommend venturing out of Porto for a couple of hours. Enjoy a brief 5-minute stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge from Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia (or Gaia to locals) which is the hub of the port wine industry. Once you're in Gaia, you'll notice that cellars and cafe terraces cover just about every inch of Gaia on the riverfront.
Pro-tip: If you're looking for any souvenirs to bring back, this is a great spot as it's lined with local vendors as well.
Try Port Wine:
Trying Port wine in Porto is a MUST! The Sandeman port bottles make excellent souvenirs!
Let's start with the obvious! It's only right, when visiting Porto, try a glass (or many) of the delicious Port wine which originated in Porto. The wine is a bit thicker and a tad sweeter than your everyday "table red," however it's delicious. I recommend a trip to Sandeman, technically on the Gaia side. A Port wine establishment that has been shipping portos from all over the world for hundreds of years. The Port served here is simple yet complex. A trip to Sandeman isn't complete without partaking in the port-driven chocolates.
Pro-Tip: Purchase a variety pack of mini-bottles of Port wine here. It makes for a great keepsake and a touch of Porto without breaking the bank.
Grab lunch (or tiny-coffees) at Mercado Beira-Rio:
The cutest cups of coffee exist in Porto!
There are plenty of waterfront gems in Gaia, however the true gem is hidden in plain sight! Step inside Mercado Beira-Rio and prepare to be amazed! At its core, it's a mess-hall, however there are so many sought-after independently owned favorites all in one place. You can grab multiple items from various vendors and wash it down with one, or many top-tier wines.
There's everything here from gourmet sandwiches and charcuterie to roast suckling pig, and more. There is even a fresh meat, cheese, spice shop inside the market! If fresh flowers is what you want, no problem! They’ve got you covered there as well! The bustling hall has communal style seating which encourages making new friends!
Pro-Tip: Bring an appetite (and cash)!
Enjoy The Douro River:
Porto is quite the destination. There is something for everyone. The heart and soul of the city lies along the Douro River. The captivating river, known as the "river of gold" spans over 200 miles from the Spanish frontier all the way to Oporto. Catch the sunset anywhere along the banks and it'll be a night to remember. If you're on a time crunch grab a quick water tour on the Douro River. Many come complete with a glass of Port wine while hearing a little history about this enchanted city.
When you're ready to head back to Porto, catch a lyft via Elevador da Ribeira:
Located at the end of the Luís I Bridge. The Elevador da Ribeira or Elevador da Lada is a public elevator in Porto, Portugal. It connects the neighborhood of Ribeira to the middle of the slope of Barredo, by means of a vertical lift and a footbridge. For about 2.50 € - 3.00 € it sure does beat having to walk about 300 steps to the top! Not only is it a nice view on the way up, but once you're off the lift, you'll have more energy to keep exploring the neat architecture of the city.
Visit Rei dos Queijos:
Finding good wine in Porto is quite simple, however finding the perfect wine and cheese "experience," can be a task! Visit Rei dos Queijos - a restaurant & cheese shop near downtown Porto. The quaint, unassuming spot, specializes in unique, approachable food and delivers on an impeccable array of cheese and wine! Dishes are innovative with enticing flavors that are inspired by Portuguese traditions.
Pro-Tip: For the traveller that wants to try a bit of everything, try the cheese board. At about 9.50 € you can try three-four delicious cheeses paired with jam, caramelized nuts, with a solid basket of bread.
Have a trip to Porto planned?! Let us know your favorite stops in the comments!