I’ve visited Porto twice, and it’s one of those places that keeps finding its way back onto my travel wishlist. My first visit was in 2023; I returned in June for the wonderfully lively São João celebrations. Both trips taught me a few things I wish I’d known before setting off.

After sharing my Porto tips on Instagram, I was delighted to see how many of you saved the post for your own adventures. So here’s a slightly roomier version for the blog — somewhere you can bookmark, revisit and share with whoever you’re trying to convince to book the flights. 🇵🇹

1. Plan your days around different parts of the city

Porto is brilliant for wandering, but I’d resist trying to tick off every landmark in one enormous walking loop. There’s plenty to see around the historic centre, down by the Ribeira waterfront and across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Group the places you want to visit by area and allow yourself time to get pleasantly distracted along the way.

Some of the sights that deserve a place on your research list are São Bento station, Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello, the Ribeira and the port wine cellars across the Douro. You don’t need to fit them all into one day.

2. Stay central if you want to explore on foot

When you’re choosing accommodation, look closely at where it is on the map rather than judging by the description alone. Being near the historic centre — around the São Bento or Clérigos area, for example — can make it easier to pop back to your room between adventures.

It’s also worth thinking about the final walk home after dinner. Which brings me to my next tip…

3. Pack for hills, cobbles and plenty of walking

Oh, those hills! The first time I visited Porto, I genuinely hadn’t realised just how hilly it was — and I definitely hadn’t packed the right footwear. So what did I do? Headed straight to GaiaShopping in Vila Nova de Gaia to buy myself some trainers! 😂 Porto is gorgeous, but your feet will know you’ve been exploring. Trust me: comfortable shoes with a decent grip are far more useful than the pretty pair you hoped might survive an entire city break.

Depending on the season, you’ll also want to think about heat, layers and carrying water. My advice? Dress for the exploring, not just the photographs. You can still get lovely photographs, promise. 😂

One more thing: don’t let a misty Porto morning put you off! On my visits, some days started foggy and overcast, but the mist often cleared by late morning to reveal beautiful sunshine. And if you get a sunny evening, my favourite place to watch the sunset is Jardim do Morro, the public garden overlooking the Douro beside the Dom Luís I Bridge. What a view! 🌅

4. Book the experiences you really don’t want to miss

There’s plenty of joy in spontaneous travel, but a little planning can save disappointment. If Livraria Lello, a Douro river cruise, Clérigos Tower or a port cellar visit is high on your list, check current opening times and booking arrangements before you go.

I prefer to choose a couple of must-dos, arrange those first and leave the rest of the trip flexible. It’s much more fun than spending half the day trying to untangle a timetable on your phone.

5. Make time for the food — and a little Portuguese

Part of the fun of visiting Porto is discovering what to eat and drink between all the sightseeing. Look out for francesinha, pastel de nata, pastéis de bacalhau and fresh sardines, depending on what appeals to you. And, of course, Porto is a wonderful place to learn about port wine.

Learning a few simple words of Portuguese is worth doing too. Even a friendly olá (hello), por favor (please) and obrigada (thank you, as said by a woman) is a nice way to make an effort.

A bonus tip: think about São João

I went back to Porto in June for São João, and what an atmosphere! Porto’s biggest street celebration takes place each year on the night of 23–24 June, with music, food and fireworks around the Douro. I loved seeing the quirky tradition of people playfully tapping one another with little plastic hammers — it’s one of those experiences you have to be there to appreciate! If you’re thinking of visiting for the festival, check the São João festival information and that year’s programme before booking.

Porto stole my heart — twice

I love the combination of beautiful streets, river views, food, culture and the freedom to just wander. And even after two visits, I still feel as though there’s more to discover.

Planning your own Porto adventure? 🇵🇹 After two visits, I’ve collected plenty more discoveries, practical lessons and favourite places. I’m bringing them together in a comprehensive Gadabond Porto Guide, including suggested itineraries, places to eat, things to see and planning advice to help you make the most of your trip. The guide isn’t on sale yet, but you can join my newsletter to be among the first to hear when it’s ready.

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Have you been to Porto? Tell me what you loved — especially if you’ve found somewhere I should visit on trip number three!