Have you always lived in Porto, or have you been here for a few years? Either way, there are certainly things you’ve never done. For example, have you climbed the Clérigos Tower? Or have you taken a boat ride on the Douro River? There are certain activities we think are just for tourists, but that we should do at least once in our lives.
So let’s take this opportunity to (re)discover our very noble city. It’s time to “get lost” in the typical streets, to climb up and down the Codeçal Stairs, and to take in the best views…Whatever it is, the most important thing is to enjoy the unique charms of Invicta.
Don’t know where to start? Or do you want to check how many “must-do” activities you’ve already done? Then take a look at our list! The order is random— after all , what really matters is doing these things at least once in a lifetime.
This is one of those things tourists do and we should do too; after all, the Clérigos Tower is one of Porto’smain landmarks.
So, if you haven’t already, take a day off and get ready to climb to the top of the building, which offers one of the best views of the city.
Livraria Lello needs no introduction, right? Considered the most beautiful in the world, stepping inside and taking in the beauty of its interior is an absolute must.
Of course, the lines at the door can ‘scare’ anyone, but if you live in the city, you can go anytime—just don’t miss out.
Have you heard of the Candlelight concerts? Since they “landed” in the city of Porto, they’ve won over many locals and visitors alike.
With performances at some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the musical programs are varied, but always share one thing in common: the magic of candlelight.
Ride the historic tram
The Porto Tram is one of the oldest electrified transit systems in Europe. In operation since the late 19th century, it reached its peak in the first half of the last century.
Although it has gradually been replaced by other, more modern forms of transportation, it remains asymbol of the city.
In fact, riding on Porto’s historic tram is trulyone of those things you have to do at least once in your life. Plus, the route to Foz is simply beautiful!
For many Porto locals, this might seem like a suggestion for tourists… and there’s certainly no shortage of places to eat delicious francesinhas, that’s for sure.
Butdid you know that Café Santiago was once considered one of the world’s legendary restaurants by the Taste Atlas platform?
In Porto, there is no shortage of award-winning green spaces to visit. However, without a doubt, one of our favorites is the many nooks and crannies of the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.
Alongside the photogenic peacocks, you’ll find some ofthe best viewpointsoverlooking theDouro River.
Café Majestic is one of the historic establishments still operating in Porto. Considered one of the most legendary places in the world to enjoy desserts, thanks to its famous French toast, it’s worth stopping by to savor this slice of the Belle Époque.
In the city of Invicta, the cultural calendar is increasingly multifaceted, encompassing classics as well as innovative offerings, such as the “Ballet Of Lights.” Promoted by Fever, this initiative combines the delicacy of ballet with the impact of new technologies, as the dancers glide across the stage in illuminated costumes.
In this way, every twirl and leap is synonymous with a dazzling display of color and light, bringing works like “Sleeping Beauty” to life. The best part? You can watch these unforgettable shows right in the heart of Porto, at the Francisco de Assis Auditorium.
Explore the charm of Porto with an unforgettable boat ride on the Douro River. From traditional Rabelo boats to sailboats with Port wine tastings, there are options for all tastes and budgets. A unique way to appreciate the beauty of the city and the wine region.
The Porto Cathedral is one of the most beautifulchurchesandmonumentsin Porto. So, in addition to exploring the nearbymedieval alleys, one of the things you must do at least once in Invicta is visit the Cathedral.
If you’re a true enthusiast of the best museums, you’ll be interested to know that the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art was the 84th most visited in 2025, according to “The Art Newspaper.”
Designed by the renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, this museum is a true cultural landmark of Porto, featuring must-see exhibitions by national and international artists.
So join the more than 900,000 visitors from last year: explore the galleries and don’t leave without strolling through the stunning gardens and the famous Treetop Walk.
Go shopping at the Bolhão Market
The Bolhão Market was built in 1914 and has been part of the heartbeat of the city of Porto ever since. However, Invicta was deprived of its historic market for four years due to renovation work.
With itsreopening in 2022, the Bolhão Market has once again filled the void left during its closure.
Watch the sunset at Virtudes
There are many places to enjoy the sunset in the city of Porto, but few are as perfect as the Passeio das Virtudes. With a strategic location on terraced slopes, from there you can admire the Douro River, the Alfândega, and the Arrábida Bridge.
Moreover, it’s a spot frequented by both locals and tourists, who watch the sunset almost as if it werea movie screening. To accompany the view, many bring drinks and snacks—and, of course, a good mood.
You might even be a fan of American-style hot dogs, but for a true Porto native, there’s nothing better than eating Porto-style cachorrinhos.
And these are some ofthe best places to savor this quintessential delicacy:
- Alma do Cachorro;
- Republic of the Hot Dogs;
- Gazela Brewery, among others.
Discover the Port Wine Cellars
One of the things that every Porto resident and/or tourist should do at least once in a lifetime is visit one of the famous Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
These historic houses offerguided toursthat reveal thesecrets of producingthis divine nectar, from the Douro Wine Region to the riverbanks.
Every year, the night of São João in Porto is one of the most eagerly awaited moments, both for locals and visitors alike.
So, if you’ve never had the chance to watch the monumental fireworks display that lights up the Douro River, mark June 23rd on your calendar for it—you won’t regret it!
If there’s one snack that Porto locals can’t do without, it’s a delicious bifana… and in Invicta and its surroundings, there are plenty of places where you can ‘eat until you’re full and still want more’.
In Porto, we recommend the famousConga – Casa das Bifanas or Astro.However, there’s another spot outside the city that’s worth a visit: the trendyCasa das Bifanas in Valongo.
Now in its 13th edition, Primavera Sound Porto has long since cemented its place on the national scene as one of the best music festivals in Portugal.
Like previous editions, the lineup stands out for its eclectic essence, featuring emerging talents as well as established names.
This year, Porto City Park is hosting a stellar lineup, featuring artists such as The xx, Gorillaz, Massive Attack, IDLES, Big Thief, Ethel Cain, and many more.
