The Other Side of Porto: Why Crossing the Bridge Changes Everything
Porto stole my heart in a way I didn’t see coming. The people are warm and proud of their city, the food and wine culture runs deep, and the pace of life feels refreshingly unhurried. For a European destination, it punches well above its weight in affordability, and with Lisbon just a train ride away, it’s one of the most effortlessly connected cities I’ve ever visited.
Things to Do in Porto
Walk everywhere
Porto is one of the most walkable cities I’ve ever visited. It’s easy to navigate, human in scale, and never overwhelming. During my entire stay, I only needed a taxi twice, and honestly, wandering without a plan led to some of my favorite discoveries.
Connect with the locals
The people of Porto are what make it truly special. Warm, respectful, and genuinely invested in your experience, they have a quiet pride in their city that is contagious. And when they noticed me fumbling through my Portuguese? They graciously switched to English without missing a beat.
Chase the sunsets from Vila Nova de Gaia
Crossing the bridge to the other side unlocks some of the most breathtaking sunsets I’ve ever witnessed. The golden light drapes itself over the Porto skyline like a painting, and from the port wine district, you have front-row seats from multiple vantage points. Sunset at Graham’s with a glass of port in hand is something I won’t soon forget.
Eat like a local
The food scene in Porto is exceptional, and refreshingly unpretentious. Fresh fish and vibrant produce are abundant even in March, which surprised me. Don’t miss the charming retail shops selling beautifully packaged canned sardines and tuna. They make wonderful gifts and are a beloved local tradition. If you visit in June, fresh sardines take center stage during the city’s beloved annual sardine festival (St. John’s Festival), a true celebration of local culture.
Hop a train to anywhere
Portugal’s regional rail network is one of its best kept secrets. Clean, affordable, and remarkably easy to use, the trains connect Porto to Lisbon, the Douro Valley, and beyond with minimal fuss. Every seat even has a charging port, a small detail that makes a big difference for the modern traveler.
Find the perfect place to stay
Porto's accommodation scene is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re drawn to a quiet, under-the-radar boutique hotel that feels like a local secret, a spacious apartment, a historic Pestana property steeped in charm, or a sprawling spa hotel nestled in the port wine district, there is something here for every kind of traveler.
Enjoy the weather year-round
Porto is a destination that rewards visitors in every season. Even in March, the weather was lovely and mild. And unlike many other European cities, it doesn’t bake in the summer heat, making it a surprisingly comfortable warm-weather escape as well.
Places to eat & drink in Porto
By The Wine Porto
By The Wine Porto is a stylish, modern wine bar and restaurant known for its extensive selection of over 2,000 bottles and curated wine-inspired decor. It serves European and Portuguese tapas, featuring Iberian ham and fresh ceviche in a casual, cozy atmosphere. It is located in the city center and you may return more than once on your trip!
Casa Expresso
Casa Expresso is around the corner from By The Wine, but is a very casual, no-frills family-owned dining experience. Diners will enjoy the authentic and local vibe, along with absolutely delicious local fare. Don't skip the "Rojão", or pork chunks served with secret house sauce (enter marvelous bread dipping).
Adega Do Carregal
Adega Do Carregal is a hidden gem for authentic cuisine such as grilled octopus, roasted lamb, and salted cod. The atmosphere is a warm, rustic tavern with stone walls and wooden beams, and it becomes lively as the night continues. Show up early if you want a seat!
Taberninha do Manel
Taberninha do Manel on the waterfront in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the bridge, is a great place to watch the sun hit Porto at sunset while enjoying a sangria or the popular "Francesinha". This local famous sandwich is made with bread, steak, sausage, ham, and topped with melted cheese, a fried egg, and a rich, spicy beer-and-tomato sauce, the Portuguese twist on the French croque-monsieur.
Guindalense Football Club
Guindalense Football Club is hidden among the backstreets with backyard vibes of grills and beers on the patio. It's perfect for a quick stop to have a drink, and very unlikely that you'll see other tourists there, as this is a community-run local hang.
A Tasquinha dos Guindais
A Tasquinha dos Guindais is around the corner from the Football Club, and is another casual, ultra-local spot for grilled specialties such as sardines with tomato salad.
Portugal has amazing seafood!
Where to stay in Porto
Where to Stay
The Largo. A boutique stay tucked into one of Porto's most historic squares, with elegant rooms and easy reach of the Ribeira, the Douro River, and the city's best known landmarks.
Pestana Palácio do Freixo, Pousada & National Monument. A palatial riverside retreat along the Douro, part of The Leading Hotels of the World, with elegant rooms, a refined restaurant, and a full service spa complete with a hammam.
Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel. Built atop the historic Kopke Port Wine Cellar in Gaia, this hotel blends centuries of history with modern comforts, multiple restaurants and bars including a rooftop, wellness facilities, and sweeping Douro views.
Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments. A luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Porto, with individually designed suites and apartments that give every stay its own character.
The Yeatman Hotel. A wine country icon built into the hillside above Vila Nova de Gaia, with 82 rooms and some of the best Douro River views in the city.
Need to Know
Tipping is a gesture of appreciation, but not a requirement in Portugal. 5–10% is typical at restaurants for exceptional service, but for more casual dining or cafés, you may simply round up.
Interested in booking your trip to Portugal? Reach out at kristin@goldcoasttravelct.com or complete the inquiry form for a complimentary consultation.