About Porto

📌FAQ's and interesting things about Porto


1. When is the best time of year to visit Porto?

Porto is fantastic year-round, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer the perfect balance of sunny days and pleasant temperatures, without the peak summer crowds. If you love traditional festivals, June is a must-see due to the São João celebrations (on the night of June 23rd to 24th).

2. How many days do I need to fully experience the city?

To see the main historic landmarks, enjoy a Douro river cruise, visit the Port Wine cellars, and savour the local cuisine without rushing, 2 to 3 days is ideal. If you plan to take a day trip to the stunning Douro Valley or nearby historic cities like Braga or Guimarães, we recommend staying for 4 or 5 days.

3. How does public transport work in Porto?

The city has an excellent and easy-to-use network:

  • Metro: Fast and efficient, connecting key areas of the city and the Airport.
  • Buses (STCP): Great for reaching areas not covered by the metro, such as the coastal route to Foz.
  • Andante Card: This is the rechargeable ticket you need to purchase for both the metro and buses. Remember, you must validate it before every single journey.

4. What local dishes should I absolutely try?

Porto’s gastronomy is rich, hearty, and full of flavour. The ultimate must-tries are:

  • Francesinha: The iconic sandwich stacked with meats, covered in melted cheese, and drenched in a unique, spicy tomato-and-beer sauce.
  • Tripas à Moda do Porto: A historic tripe stew that gives the locals their proud nickname, "Tripeiros."
  • Bacalhau (Codfish): Prepared in countless delicious ways across the city.
  • Pastel de Nata: The famous custard tart, perfectly paired with an espresso.

5. Where are the famous Port Wine cellars located?

Although named after Porto, the historic cellars are actually located across the river on the south bank, in the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. You just need to cross the iconic Luiz I Bridge (either on foot or by metro) to find dozens of cellars offering guided tours and tastings.

6. Is Porto a safe city for travellers?

Yes, Porto is widely considered a very safe city with low crime rates. As with any popular European destination, you just need to practice standard common sense, such as keeping an eye on your personal belongings in crowded areas (like the Ribeira) or on public transport.