Top reasons to visit Porto
- Stunning Architecture: Porto's skyline is adorned with breathtaking architecture, from the historic Porto Cathedral to the ornate city hall.
- Vibrant Markets: Experience the local culture by visiting lively public markets, where you can savour authentic Portuguese cuisine and shop for unique crafts.
- Picturesque Neighbourhoods: Wander through charming areas like the downtown Baixa, filled with friendly locals and romantic atmospheres.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Porto's culture by exploring its museums and galleries, showcasing the city's storied history.
- Beautiful Seaside Excursions: Enjoy scenic day trips along the stunning coastline, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Find great hotels in Porto
Discover a range of delightful accommodations in Porto, from charming guesthouses to well-appointed hotels, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly stay, a base for business travel, or a city-themed holiday experience, you'll find a variety of options to suit your needs. Explore the vibrant culture and stunning sights of Porto while enjoying the comfort of your chosen lodging.
- HF Ipanema Park: This luxurious 5-star hotel, boasting a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, offers an elegant retreat for discerning travellers. HF Ipanema Park is particularly suited for those on business or seeking a lavish vacation experience. Guests can indulge in stylishly furnished rooms, complemented by modern amenities. The hotel features a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city, a well-equipped fitness centre, and a sophisticated restaurant serving exquisite local and international cuisine. Its convenient location provides easy access to Porto’s vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal choice for an upscale stay.
- InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas by IHG: Rated 9.4 out of 10, this 5-star hotel is a historic gem that combines adventure and family-friendly amenities. Situated in the heart of Porto, it offers a variety of recreational activities including sailing, kayaking, and bicycle rentals nearby, perfect for those eager to explore the area. The hotel provides exceptional services for children, such as babysitting and child-friendly facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. With its rich history and luxurious accommodations, the InterContinental Porto is an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and comfort.
- Pestana Porto - A Brasileira, City Center & Heritage Building: This eco-certified 5-star hotel, with an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, embraces a city-themed and pet-friendly philosophy. Located in the city centre, it provides guests with easy access to Porto’s attractions while promoting sustainable practices. The hotel welcomes certain pets, with amenities tailored for furry companions. Guests appreciate the stylish design that reflects the local heritage, alongside modern comforts. This accommodation is perfect for eco-conscious travellers looking to enjoy a vibrant city experience while being kind to the environment.
Where to stay in Porto
Porto, a vibrant metropolis, offers a delightful blend of culture and history, making it perfect for family vacations and city breaks. Explore the heart of Porto, with its stunning views and charming downtown Baixa, where friendly locals welcome you. Wander through picturesque neighbourhoods and immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere, discovering the city's rich heritage and adventurous spirit. Whether you're after a relaxing getaway or an exciting exploration, Porto promises an unforgettable experience.
- Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos: Nestled within the city of Porto, Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos offers a delightful blend of culture and history. This vibrant parish is frequented by travellers year-round, with a notable peak during the summer months. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through various activities, from exploring historic sites to enjoying outdoor entertainment. Families will appreciate the educational opportunities and proximity to leisure facilities. Highlights include picturesque neighbourhoods and landmarks steeped in history, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a cultural city experience.
- Valadares: Located in the Porto area, Valadares is a charming neighbourhood that attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. This area is particularly popular from July to September, when beachgoers flock to soak up the sun. Valadares offers a range of experiences, including golf courses and family-friendly beaches, perfect for a relaxed day out. The local churches add a cultural touch, making it a great destination for those wishing to blend beach relaxation with cultural exploration.
- Praia Da Granja: Praia Da Granja is a picturesque neighbourhood renowned for its stunning beach and outdoor ambience. It draws visitors throughout the year, especially in January and during the late summer months. This area is ideal for beach lovers and those interested in cultural pursuits, with art museums nearby adding to the appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, including golf and leisurely beach walks, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Things to do in Porto
Shopping
At Rua de Santa Catarina, you can explore the popular shopping street filled with local shops and boutiques. For a more extensive range of brands, head to Via Catarina Shopping, where you'll find a mix of fashion, accessories, and souvenirs to take home.
Recreation
Vila Nova de Gaia's Spa offers rejuvenating treatments with stunning views of the Douro River. Experience traditional Portuguese wellness rituals or indulge in a soothing massage, all while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and skilled therapists who focus on your relaxation and well-being.
The Douro Valley is a picturesque escape, ideal for leisurely strolls amidst vineyards and hills. Engage in wine tastings or partake in outdoor activities like cycling, providing a refreshing way to connect with nature while enjoying the region's stunning landscapes.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views aboard the Gaia Cable Car, gliding high above the Douro River. This family-friendly adventure offers an exhilarating ascent, showcasing Porto's stunning landscape and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an outdoor thrill amidst breathtaking scenery.
Nightlife
Experience Porto's vibrant nightlife at Rua Galeria de Paris, where trendy bars and clubs create a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the historic Ribeira district along the Douro River, filled with charming taverns and outdoor terraces perfect for enjoying local wines and music.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Porto
Porto presents various opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like Ribeira Square, the Historic Centre, and the Cathedral. For transport, consider the Metro, buses, or simply walking. Visit during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and book hotels about a month in advance for the best rates. Tuesdays generally offer the lowest accommodation prices. Use Expedia to compare deals, refine your search by budget and location, and consider package savings by bundling flights and activities with your hotel booking for added affordability.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Porto are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Porto about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Porto is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Porto is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Porto with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Porto
Porto offers a delightful blend of culture, city life, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for various travellers. Key attractions include the stunning Porto Cathedral, the vibrant city hall, and picturesque urban parks and squares. Visitors can explore rich cultural sights throughout the city, ensuring an enriching experience for all who venture to this beautiful part of Portugal.
- Clérigos Church: This stunning baroque church, known for its iconic bell tower, offers a glimpse into Porto's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can ascend the tower for panoramic views of the city, while the intricate interior showcases beautiful altarpieces and artwork, reflecting the artistic spirit of the region.
- Carneiro Beach: Situated close to the city, Carneiro Beach presents a serene escape with its golden sands and gentle waves. Ideal for sunbathing or leisurely strolls, the beach is embraced by lush cliffs, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and unwinding.
- Porto Historic Center: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this vibrant neighbourhood is characterised by its narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Explore historic landmarks, quaint cafés, and a variety of shops that reflect the city's unique charm and local culture.
Best time to go to Porto
The best time to visit Porto is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Porto
Flying into Porto is convenient through its main airport, Porto (OPO-Dr. Francisco de Sa Carneiro), located 11.3km from the city centre. Excellent hotel options nearby include the 5-star HF Ipanema Park, 9.7km away, and PortoBay Flores, also 11.3km from the airport, as well as Pestana Porto - A Brasileira, situated 11.3km from OPO. Alternatively, Vigo (VGO-Peinador) is 119.1km away, with notable hotels like the 4-star Hotel Zenit Vigo, 6.4km from the airport. Vila Real (VRL), located 75.6km from Porto, offers hotels such as the 4-star Hotel Mira Corgo, 3.2km away, with various transportation services available for access to the airport.