Travelers’ pro tips for experiencing Porto

lasersailor_8

Best of all was the full day boat trip up the Douro to Pinhao, this is a must for all visitors to Porto. A visit by bus to Braga with its fountains and to see 'Bom Jesus' cathedral, take the funicula if you want to save yourself a lot of walking as there is plenty of that once at the top. In Braga I had the best Francesinha ever, you visit Braga then you must have one of these.

cara f

Eating is one of the best parts of being in Porto so don't fill up at the first place you come to — learn to graze! Remember: The little appetizers that are brought to your table when you sit down are not free — if you are not interested don't touch them or ask your server to take them away.

Andre Parente

There are lots of nice guesthouses in Porto, operating within converted traditional houses. If you fancy a genuine local feeling, stay in one of these instead of a conventional hotel.

In the words of those who've been there before...

GIOVANNI R

One could wander around for days without ever getting bored. Not to mention the fabulous eating and drinking places at very reasonable prices, the local wines and, of course, the Port wine. The local people are extremely friendly and willing to help.

Andre Parente

Porto is a vibrant city of picturesque streets, grey buildings, honest smiles, and a romantic aura. In three days it’s possible to visit and see its main and most obvious attractions, not only in the historic center, which is listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO, but also some of the more modern neighborhoods.

cara f

Porto is, to many, the most romantic city in Portugal. The river Douro, endless ancient churches, lovely green spaces, elegant eateries, quirky landmarks, and the inescapable seduction of Port wine all come together in one easy-to-love town.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

The city is served by Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto International Airport).

Train:

Porto has two train stations: the ornately decorated Sao Bento station for local trains and Campanha station, from which trains to the rest of the country and other European destinations depart.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting from overseas, see if you need a visa using the following website.

When is the best time to visit?

Porto generally experiences a moderate climate that provides optimum conditions for exploring the city on foot. The best months to visit are May, June and September, when skies are typically dry and blue, and the crowds associated with summer are less-concentrated. Expect average daily temperatures those times of year to be highs around 74° F (23° C) and lows of 58° F (14° C).

For more information on Porto’s weather and when to go, check out some tips here.

Metro

Porto’s metro features six lines that run from around 6 a.m. until 1 a.m. There are more than 80 metro lines throughout the city, which are marked with large blue letter Ms.

See timetables here.

Bus

Throughout Porto and the surrounding regions of Vila Nova de Gaia and Vila do Conde, you’ll find more than 75 STNP bus routes. Porto Cards and Andante can be topped up with cash and purchased at most bus stops.

Tram and funicular

There are three tram routes in Porto; Line 1, 18, and 22. Line 1 runs along the west coast and the Douro River, making for a truly scenic journey. There’s also a single track funicular that runs from Porto’s Ribeira area to Batalha Square.