Have you always lived in Porto, or have you been here for a few years now? Either way, there are certainly things you’ve never done. For example, have you ever climbed the Clérigos Tower? Or taken a boat trip on the River Douro? There are certain activities that we think are only for tourists, but that we should do at least once in our lives.
So let’s take the opportunity to (re)discover our very noble city. It’s time to get ‘lost’ in the typical streets , to go up and down the Codeçal Stairs and to contemplate the best views… Whatever it is, the most important thing is to enjoy the unique charms of Invicta.
Not sure where to start? Or do you want to see how many ‘must-do’ activities you’ve already done? Then take a look at our list! The order presented is random, after all, what really matters is doing these things at least once in your life.
1 – Climbing the Clérigos Tower
This is one of those things that tourists do and we should do too, after all the Clérigos Tower is one of Porto’s main monuments.
So, if you haven’t done it yet, take a day off and get ready to climb to the top of the building, which has one of the best views over the city.
2 – Have coffee at the Majestic
Café Majestic is one of the historic businesses that still operates in Porto. Considered one of the most legendary places in the world to eat desserts, due to its famous rabanadas, it’s worth popping in to enjoy this piece of the Belle Époque.
3 – Ride the historic streetcar
The Porto Tram is one of Europe’s oldest electrified transportation systems. Operating since the end of the 19th century, it reached its peak in the first half of the last century.
Although it has gradually been replaced by more modern transportation, it remains a symbol of the city.
In fact, taking a ride on Porto’s historic streetcar is one of the things you have to do at least once in your life. What’s more, the route to Foz is simply beautiful!
4 – Enter the most beautiful bookshop in the world
Livraria Lello needs no introduction, right? Considered to be the most beautiful in the world, going in and contemplating the beauty of its interior is a must.
Of course, the queues at the door can ‘scare’ anyone, but if you live in the city you can go at any time, but don’t miss out.
5 – Eating francesinhas at Café Santiago
For many people from Porto, this may seem like a suggestion for tourists… and there are plenty of places to eat delicious francesinhas.
But did you know that Café Santiago was considered one of the world’s legendary restaurants by the Taste Atlas platform?
6 – Attending a concert by candlelight
Have you heard of Candlelight concerts? Since they ‘landed’ in the city of Porto, they have won over many locals and visitors.
With shows in some of the city’s most emblematic spots, the musical programs are varied, but always with one thing in common: the magic of candlelight.
7 – Visiting the Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral is one of the most beautiful churches and monuments in Porto.
So, as well as strolling through the medieval alleyways nearby, one of the things you should do at least once in Invicta is enter the Cathedral.
8 – Discover the nooks and crannies of the Crystal Palace
Porto has no shortage of award-winning green spaces to visit. However, one of our favorites is undoubtedly the various nooks and crannies of the Crystal Palace Gardens.
As well as the photogenic peacocks, there you’ll find some of the best viewpoints overlooking the River Douro.
9 – Shopping at the Bolhão Market
The Bolhão Market was built in 1914 and has been part of Porto’s heartbeat ever since. However, Invicta was deprived of its historic market for four years for rehabilitation works.
With its reopening in 2022, Mercado do Bolhão has once again filled the void left during its closure.
10 – Devouring hot dogs Porto style
You may be a fan of American-style hot dogs, but for a true Porto fan there’s nothing better than eating puppies Porto style.
And these are some of the best places to devour this typical delicacy:
- Alma do Cachorro;
- República dos Cachorros;
- Cervejaria Gazela, among others.
11 – Boat trip on the Douro River
Explore the charm of Porto with an unforgettable boat trip on the Douro River. From traditional Rabelo boats to sailboats with Port wine tasting, there are options for all tastes and wallets. A unique way to appreciate the beauty of the city and the wine region.
12 – Watching the sunset at Virtudes
There are many places to enjoy the sunset in Porto, but few are as perfect as Passeio das Virtudes. Strategically located on terraces, from here you can contemplate the River Douro, the Customs House and the Arrábida Bridge.
It’s also a place frequented by locals and tourists alike, who watch the sunset almost as if it were a movie. Many bring drinks and snacks and, of course, a good mood.
13 – Explore the Best Port Wine Cellars
One of the things any local and/or tourist should do at least once in their life is visit one of the famous Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
These centuries-old houses offer guided tours that reveal the secrets of producing this divine nectar, from the Douro Wine Region to the banks of the river.
Of course, there are many more things to do at least once in your life in Porto. That’s why we’ll be updating this article frequently… stay tuned!