Tourism in Porto is on the rise. A once quiet, small Portuguese town now bustles with the same popularity as in Lisbon. Historic indeed, there is plenty to explore throughout the Porto streets. Whether it's the local ceramic scene or a historic train station, these are some of the must-explore places in Porto while on foot.
São Bento Railway Station
This monumental train station is a must-see even if you don't plan to use the station. The first train arrived in 1896, but officially inaugurated in 1916. On the walls are "azulejos," or Portuguese tiles, depicting various scenes from the country's history. Since 1916, around 20,000 tiles lay on the walls thanks to the artistic creation of Jorge Colaço. Today travelers from all over the globe come to admire the detailed tile work inside the train station. It feels like stepping back into time.
This monumental train station is a must-see even if you don't plan to use the station. The first train arrived in 1896, but officially inaugurated in 1916. On the walls are "azulejos," or Portuguese tiles, depicting various scenes from the country's history. Since 1916, around 20,000 tiles lay on the walls thanks to the artistic creation of Jorge Colaço. Today travelers from all over the globe come to admire the detailed tile work inside the train station. It feels like stepping back into time.
Portuguese Tile Work
Besides the facade of churches and local buildings, discover the beauty of the Portuguese tile work in random places, like these boulders just outside of the São Bento train station. The Igreja de Santo António dos Congregados adjacent to Sao Bento is proof of the marvelous art depicted in the tile art.
Besides the facade of churches and local buildings, discover the beauty of the Portuguese tile work in random places, like these boulders just outside of the São Bento train station. The Igreja de Santo António dos Congregados adjacent to Sao Bento is proof of the marvelous art depicted in the tile art.
Religious History + Porto Cathedral
Footsteps from São Bento is Porto's main religious landmark and cathedral. Se Cathedral is also the starting point for many pilgrims who will walk from Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Inside, pilgrims purchase their passport and outside many snap photos in front of the church and the arrows pointing in the direction of walking north to Santiago or south to Fatima.
Built on the highest point in Porto, construction began in the 12th Century. Mainly Baroque, the Cathedral features various architectural styles due to getting various "face lifts" throughout the centuries. One interesting fact is that the Cathedral sits on a square, which contains a column in the center. Criminals were once hung from this column.
The Cathedral area is a great place to get lost on foot, meandering through ancient city streets overlooking the river.
Footsteps from São Bento is Porto's main religious landmark and cathedral. Se Cathedral is also the starting point for many pilgrims who will walk from Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Inside, pilgrims purchase their passport and outside many snap photos in front of the church and the arrows pointing in the direction of walking north to Santiago or south to Fatima.
Built on the highest point in Porto, construction began in the 12th Century. Mainly Baroque, the Cathedral features various architectural styles due to getting various "face lifts" throughout the centuries. One interesting fact is that the Cathedral sits on a square, which contains a column in the center. Criminals were once hung from this column.
The Cathedral area is a great place to get lost on foot, meandering through ancient city streets overlooking the river.
Discover more about Porto's religious and historical sites with these other Lemon Tree Travel blogs.
9 Historical Attractions You Can't Miss in Porto, Portugal
7 of the Most Notable Churches & Cathedrals in Porto, Portugal
9 Historical Attractions You Can't Miss in Porto, Portugal
7 of the Most Notable Churches & Cathedrals in Porto, Portugal
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Architecture, Shopping + Ceramics
Adjacent to Sao Bento is one of Porto's most historic and luxurious streets, Rua das Flores. Still historic, this street has seen a modern face lift throughout the last couple years. The street originated in 1521 and earned it's title thanks to the many gardens located on the street. Aristocrats settled here throughout time, becoming one of the most luxurious streets in Porto, and it still is today.
Whether you're searching for an antique book shop or to enjoy a cup of coffee on an 19th Century sofa, you can do so on flower street. Many high end, modern restaurants are popping up, but luckily the street hasn't lost its character yet. The street features civil architecture and baroque styles dating between 17-19th Century. There are plenty of handmade shops, so travelers can take a piece of Porto home with them.
I recommend tea or lunch at Joia da Coroa, as seen in the top image. Originally the Goldsmith Alliance building, this cafe and jewelry shop is a blast from the past.
A stone's throw away from Rua de Flores is Rua de Ferreira Borges. Located here is my favorite ceramic shop in Porto. Ceramics is one of Portugal's longest and most historic professions. Zinda Atelier is one ceramic shop you must explore while in Porto. Operated by a brother a sister, the sister makes the ceramics while the brother focuses on the business. They feature a variety of household ceramics and paintings as well as jewelry.
I bought a ceramic sparrow in October 2015, and during my divorce I broke the necklace. I began my Portuguese Way Camino journey in October 2018 and was able to pick up a few of the necklaces, which only cost 5 euros a piece.
Adjacent to Sao Bento is one of Porto's most historic and luxurious streets, Rua das Flores. Still historic, this street has seen a modern face lift throughout the last couple years. The street originated in 1521 and earned it's title thanks to the many gardens located on the street. Aristocrats settled here throughout time, becoming one of the most luxurious streets in Porto, and it still is today.
Whether you're searching for an antique book shop or to enjoy a cup of coffee on an 19th Century sofa, you can do so on flower street. Many high end, modern restaurants are popping up, but luckily the street hasn't lost its character yet. The street features civil architecture and baroque styles dating between 17-19th Century. There are plenty of handmade shops, so travelers can take a piece of Porto home with them.
I recommend tea or lunch at Joia da Coroa, as seen in the top image. Originally the Goldsmith Alliance building, this cafe and jewelry shop is a blast from the past.
A stone's throw away from Rua de Flores is Rua de Ferreira Borges. Located here is my favorite ceramic shop in Porto. Ceramics is one of Portugal's longest and most historic professions. Zinda Atelier is one ceramic shop you must explore while in Porto. Operated by a brother a sister, the sister makes the ceramics while the brother focuses on the business. They feature a variety of household ceramics and paintings as well as jewelry.
I bought a ceramic sparrow in October 2015, and during my divorce I broke the necklace. I began my Portuguese Way Camino journey in October 2018 and was able to pick up a few of the necklaces, which only cost 5 euros a piece.
Explore the Local Cuisine
No trip to Porto is complete without exploring the local cuisine. I only eat plant-based foods so while I cannot recommend any meat or seafood, Porto is a fantastic place for vegetarian and some vegan cuisine. Most places have a Portuguese salad, which contains oranges and a vegetable soup. The soup is consistent throughout the country, but each region may slightly alter the original recipe depending on produce availability.
I recommend Cris Bar for a modest Portuguese experience with fair prices and Port wine. There are countless places to explore the viniculture in Porto. Many "hole in wall" places sell a glass for 1.50-2.50 euros. Most wineries are across the bridge and along and nearby Avenida Diogo Leite.
No trip to Porto is complete without exploring the local cuisine. I only eat plant-based foods so while I cannot recommend any meat or seafood, Porto is a fantastic place for vegetarian and some vegan cuisine. Most places have a Portuguese salad, which contains oranges and a vegetable soup. The soup is consistent throughout the country, but each region may slightly alter the original recipe depending on produce availability.
I recommend Cris Bar for a modest Portuguese experience with fair prices and Port wine. There are countless places to explore the viniculture in Porto. Many "hole in wall" places sell a glass for 1.50-2.50 euros. Most wineries are across the bridge and along and nearby Avenida Diogo Leite.
Explore the Rio Douro
A few minutes from Cris Bar is the waterfront and Rio Douro. Here you'll discover plenty of cafes, shops and souvenir stands. The street side cafes are a popular place to enjoy a glass of Port wine, and some visitors marvel at the historic boats or simply take a nap on the river wall. For a traditional meal with a. view, try the Restaurante Merceraria, which also serves vegetarian soup and salad.
A few minutes from Cris Bar is the waterfront and Rio Douro. Here you'll discover plenty of cafes, shops and souvenir stands. The street side cafes are a popular place to enjoy a glass of Port wine, and some visitors marvel at the historic boats or simply take a nap on the river wall. For a traditional meal with a. view, try the Restaurante Merceraria, which also serves vegetarian soup and salad.
Discover the Luis I Bridge
Whether on foot or tram, cross the Rio Douro to explore the other side of Porto. The bridge features photogenic spots on both sides of the city. From Jardin do Morro head to the riverfront where the majority of wineries operate. For a taste of art, class and history explore Ramos Pintos, a winery established in 1880.
Whether on foot or tram, cross the Rio Douro to explore the other side of Porto. The bridge features photogenic spots on both sides of the city. From Jardin do Morro head to the riverfront where the majority of wineries operate. For a taste of art, class and history explore Ramos Pintos, a winery established in 1880.
The scenic riverfront meanders towards Castelo where you'll discover additional lookout points over the city. Back on the other side of the river, The Port Wine Museum is a place for viniculture lovers to explore.
Historical Trams of Porto
If walking isn't an option, explore Porto by tram. In the main part of town, take the historic tram to Porto's seaside.
I prefer walking. It's the best way to see Porto. But, I suggest taking the trolly to Porto's seaside community known as "Foz do Douro." Constructed in 1895, the vintage trams have been restored, and the squeaks and squawks are loud but worth the experience and the 2.50 euros ticket.
If walking isn't an option, explore Porto by tram. In the main part of town, take the historic tram to Porto's seaside.
I prefer walking. It's the best way to see Porto. But, I suggest taking the trolly to Porto's seaside community known as "Foz do Douro." Constructed in 1895, the vintage trams have been restored, and the squeaks and squawks are loud but worth the experience and the 2.50 euros ticket.
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Pergola de Foz
If Porto isn't laid back enough, wait until you explore the relaxing vibes of Foz do Duoro. The tram terminates next to the seaside and from here, walk a few kilometers toward Pergola, past murky waters crashing on top of shoreline boulders. Inspired by Nice's Promenade de Anglais, the mayor's wife was so enchanted by Nice's walkway that she motivated the contraction in the 1930's. Known as the "Praia dos Ingleses," symbolizes the close relationship Portugal has with the British. This neighborhood is known for its peace and quiet with several beachside cafes available.
If Porto isn't laid back enough, wait until you explore the relaxing vibes of Foz do Duoro. The tram terminates next to the seaside and from here, walk a few kilometers toward Pergola, past murky waters crashing on top of shoreline boulders. Inspired by Nice's Promenade de Anglais, the mayor's wife was so enchanted by Nice's walkway that she motivated the contraction in the 1930's. Known as the "Praia dos Ingleses," symbolizes the close relationship Portugal has with the British. This neighborhood is known for its peace and quiet with several beachside cafes available.
Jardim Botanico do Porto + Arrabida District
If Porto isn't already beautiful enough. Nature lovers get lost in the local botanical garden. A 19th-Century mansion sits amidst am arboretum equipped with ponds, paths and peacocks. Discover a myriad of gardens such as: the succulent plants garden, the schist garden, the fish garden, the bronze boy garden, and the “J” garden.
The Arrabida District contains Porto University so here travelers will discover a young, vibrant crowd, walking the streets and enjoying the local cafes.
Where is your favorite place to discover Porto on foot? Be sure to check out our other Porto blogs:
9 Historical Attractions You Can't Miss in Porto, Portugal
7 of the Most Notable Churches & Cathedrals in Porto, Portugal
This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to The Best Places to Explore in Porto, Portugal on Foot.
If Porto isn't already beautiful enough. Nature lovers get lost in the local botanical garden. A 19th-Century mansion sits amidst am arboretum equipped with ponds, paths and peacocks. Discover a myriad of gardens such as: the succulent plants garden, the schist garden, the fish garden, the bronze boy garden, and the “J” garden.
The Arrabida District contains Porto University so here travelers will discover a young, vibrant crowd, walking the streets and enjoying the local cafes.
Where is your favorite place to discover Porto on foot? Be sure to check out our other Porto blogs:
9 Historical Attractions You Can't Miss in Porto, Portugal
7 of the Most Notable Churches & Cathedrals in Porto, Portugal
This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to The Best Places to Explore in Porto, Portugal on Foot.
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