Where to Stay in Porto: A Complete Guide For Your First Visit

Welcome to Porto, Portugal. We have visited this historic city twice and found that even though it is easy to navigate, choosing where to stay in Porto, can be a bit confusing. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through Porto’s diverse neighborhoods, helping you discover the best accommodations to suit your need. Whether you’re seeking the heart of the city’s bustling activity or a tranquil retreat by the river, our curated recommendations will ensure you find the perfect place to call home while exploring all that Porto has to offer.

Porto is famed for its colorful houses and historic center, so much so that it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is actually a relatively compact city that is centered around the Duoro River which has been the lifeblood of Porto since its inception. its colorful buildings and historic churches really intrigued us and we spent 3 days wandering the streets and discovering Porto like a local.

What we found was that although it is easy to navigate, the compact city center might initially make it seem like there aren’t many different neighborhoods to choose from. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

We decided to put together this guide to help you navigate the different Porto Neighborhoods as well as give you our suggestions on where to make a base when exploring Porto for the first time to the 10th time.

Where to Stay in Porto: Our Guide to The Best Areas To Stay in Porto

Whenever we start looking for accommodation in a new city we go through the same process; Decide on our budget, choose a neighborhood, and then a hotel, guesthouse, or apartment rental within our chosen neighborhood and that is near what we want to do.

Are you ready to find your ideal area and hotel in Porto? In this guide, we will run you through the best places to stay in Porto, from historic hotels with exposed stone walls to our favorite modern hotel within walking distance of all the attractions. Porto is a fabulous place to visit, and with a proper understanding of where to stay in Porto, you’ll fall in love with the city even more.

1. Ribeira: Most Central Place To Stay in Porto

Ribeira is where to stay in Porto if it is your first time in the city and you want the whole experience. This neighborhood sits right along the banks of the Douro River and it is extremely central. You can weave your way in and out of narrow cobbled streets of the historic centre while enjoying river views and the smell of traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Praca da Ribeira square is the ‘money shot’ of Ribeira, where you’ll spot the iconic sight of stacks of colorful houses – a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Riberia oozes atmosphere and a cultural aesthetic. It is touristy, full of snapping cameras and beaming couples; however, you can see why. But if you visit in off-seasons or shoulder seasons, you may be able to experience Riberia in a much quieter light without the tourist crowds.

If you are only planning to stay in Porto for a few days, it is a great idea to stay in Riberia. Ribeira is as central Porto as Porto can get. It is one of the most (if not the most) central neighborhoods you can choose since it is right along the banks of the Douro River, at the heart of the city. It pays to be centrally located when you only have a few days because you are within easy walking distance of all the major attractions. You can walk to the Porto Cathedral and local bars overlooking the river. It is ideal if you want to sightsee almost entirely on foot and cut out any unnecessary travel time on public transport.

Ribeira is authentic in a busy way. The neighborhood has the most ‘wow factor’ regarding Praca da Ribeira and its colored houses. The word Ribeira also derives from the word river in Portuguese – so it is quite literally named after the river, which splits Porto directly into two. You can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes on lovely terraces overlooking the water at night. By day, you have hundreds of attractions at your fingertips.

Be aware that prices are a little higher in Ribeira. After all, you are paying for location, and local businesses know they charge predominantly tourist rates. Again, off-and-shoulder seasons overcome this minor drawback if you want to keep to a budget. But overall, consider whether you are happy to pay premium prices for the area.

Staying in Riberia: The Pros and cons

Pros of:

Great location  River views  Praca da Ribeira Square’s colorful houses  Medieval streets

Cons of:

Higher prices Busy with tourist crowds Gradually becoming a less authentic place Offers a more mainstream experience

Highlights of Ribeira:

The Douro River is the iconic natural landmark that snakes through the center of Porto. The river flows through the Douro Valley, passing beautiful vineyard terraces and rural scenes, and also cuts through the urban setting of Porto. You can actually cruise the whole length of the river in an 8-day mega cruise, taking in all of these sights. Alternatively, you can cruise the river for a few hours to a day on a sightseeing experience in Porto’s center.

Portuguese Centre of Photography

This photography museum is situated on the outskirts of Ribeira. The museum has a massive collection of contemporary and historical photographs and photography equipment. It is totally free to enter. It is one of the best low-cost things to do near Ribeira. It is even located in an old prison, which is super cool and gives the museum that novelty kick. You can check out the photos and loads of ancient cameras and temporary exhibits that tell stories about Porto – like when it underwent tragic fires.

Cais da Ribeira is a famous Street right on the waterfront of the Douro River. The riverside promenade is lined with terraced restaurants and colored townhouses, and the whole atmosphere encapsulates Ribeira’s aesthetic. It is one of the best places to take a stroll and snap photos in Ribeira and is a definite neighborhood highlight.

Fernandina Walls of Porto

This beautiful medieval fortress is one of the most historic attractions in Porto and the highlights of Ribeira. The fortress still has intact walls, and you can walk along the ramparts to enjoy stunning views of the Douro River and Porto’s city scenery from above. It is a beautiful place to learn about Porto’s history and embrace the city’s scenic side.

Best Places to Stay in Riberia

Budget: Cats Hostel Porto

Cats Hostel Porto is a cheap and cheerful place to stay in Porto, Ribeira. Each guest gets a complimentary breakfast plus access to communal facilities, including a shared kitchen, lounge, and bar with a lovely terrace. There are also mixed, single-sex, and private dormitory options. Located just a short walk from the São Bento Train Station.

Mid-range: Se Catedral Hotel Porto

This beautiful modern hotel has 4 stars and plenty of personality. Expect a trendy vibe with wow factor rooms and a sleek design. Some rooms also have spectacular city views, and a restaurant and bar are on-site.

Luxury: Torel Palace Porto

Torel Palace Porto is where to stay in Porto, Ribeira if you want a luxury experience. The boutique hotel is just minutes from Porto Cathedral and the Luis I bridge. The details are sublime, too, with chandeliers, an on-site restaurant with tasting menus and wine pairings, and a swimming pool and spa access. There’s even private parking on-site, which is relatively unheard of in busy Ribeira.

2. Baixa: Where We Stayed & Great For First-Time Visitors

Baixa is still a central location in Porto, just north of the major tourist hotspot, Ribeira. Baixa is the christened ‘Downtown Porto’. So expect a typical downtown experience; Downtown Porto does not disappoint. We loved staying in this area because we were still within close walking distance of major attractions, but it was a lot less crowded.

Baixa is where to stay in Porto if you want to take a slight step back from tourists in Ribeira without sacrificing any centrality. You can still walk to Porto Cathedral and the bridge. In fact, you are surrounded by downtown attractions like São Bento station and Rua das Flores – aka the Street of Flowers. Baixa is fun and packed with things to do and see.

Baixa is laid out like a thick network. The center point of this neighborhood is Avenida dos Aliados, which is headed by the Municipal Council building at one end and Liberty Square at the other. But branching off of Avenida dos Aliados are hundreds of little streets with independent hospitality businesses like cafes and bars, plus dozens of dotted tourist attractions. These include attractions like the Municipal Theater Rivoli and the Clerigos Church and Tower.

Baixa is perfect for exploring a more extensive side of Porto. You’ll wander through stunning squares that symbolize essential times in the city’s history. And you’ll be able to nip into independent bookshops and cafes that have retained a ‘local’ feel – not just being washed with over-tourism.

If you have more than a few days in Porto, staying in Baixa will let you experience just that little bit more of the city. Don’t forget to head to the Bolhao quarter, which surrounds the Bolhao Market and is notoriously delicious when finding unique places to eat.

We’ll admit that Baixa doesn’t have the postcard shot that Ribeira does. Instead, it offers a sleeker style of street aesthetic and architecture, with plenty of open squares and wide thoroughfares. Baixa definitely provides a different experience, but for anyone wanting that downtown vibe, it is the perfect choice when choosing where to stay in Porto. You can often bag slightly cheaper prices, too – a win-win.

Staying in Baixa: The Pros and Cons

Pros of:

Good location  Lots of tourist attractions Beautiful city squares Great ‘local attractions’ like bookshops and cafes

Cons of:

Further from Douro River  Further from the colored house areas  Still gets busy A less traditional aesthetic

Highlights of Baixa:

The Street of Flowers – it sounds beautiful, right? The street was first constructed in the 16th century. By the 19th century, it had reached soaring success thanks to its upmarket retail scene. It is entirely pedestrianized and full of cafes with outdoor seating that spills into the street. You can wander down to invest in souvenirs, grab an upscale meal, or watch the street artists.

Camara Municipal do Porto

Camara Municipal is Porto’s city hall. The neoclassical building is truly stunning, and it dates back to the early 1900s, wowing with its black marble entrance and ultra-dramatic clock tower. The town hall is worth a visit and is free to enter, making it one of the best things to do in Baixa on a budget.

Rua Santa Catarina is slightly less famous than Rua das Flores but equally a highlight of Baixa. The broad thoroughfare is most famous for its Palacete dos Pestanas. This historic attraction belonged to a wealthy and locally renowned Porto family. You can tour the building to admire the grand architecture and furnishings. You’ll also find Jardim de Teofilo Braga at the end of Rua Santa Catarina – a beautiful square.

One thing Baixa does exceptionally well is the theater. And what downtown doesn’t have a brilliant theater and performance scene? Perhaps because of this, Baixa gets its nickname as the arts district of Porto. One of the leading theaters is the Municipal Theater Rivoli. The theater has a neoclassical design and dates back to 1913. You can see what the schedule is during your visit and book tickets (as far as possible in advance) to numerous performances and shows.

Best Places to Stay in Baixa

Budget: Nice Way Porto Hostel

If you want to keep your money for exploring Porto, Nice Way Porto Hostel is fantastic affordable accommodation to stay in Porto, Portugal. The hostel has mixed-gender and female-only dorms, with bunk beds featuring plugs and privacy curtains in every room. You can also splurge on a private room, which has en suite bathrooms and gives you access to communal spaces like the kitchen and living room.

Mid-range: YOTEL Porto (Our Choice)

Forget boutique hotels; modern hotels are where it is at. We stayed at the YOTEL Porto and we loved it. If you want a sleek, minimalist place to stay in Porto, look no further. The 4-star hotel features a business center plus a 24-hour gym, so there’ll be no excuse for slacking off work. But equally, it has extremely comfortable rooms with a smart layout for 21st-century travelers and is definitely central for sightseeing in Downtown Porto. There is a metro stop just a 5-minute walk away if you want to get around quickly. One of our favorite hotels in Portugal.

Luxury: Maison Albar – Le Monumental Palace

Maison Albar is easily one of the best hotels to choose if you want a luxury hotel stay in Porto. It boasts a splendid location plus an on-site gym, restaurant, bar, and spa, which includes an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and massages. Maison Albar is the ideal place to unplug after sightseeing in busy Porto. Some room choices even include spacious apartments for self-catered living.

3. Boavista: Modern Porto

Boavista is where to stay in Porto if you want a residential atmosphere and a massively upscale aesthetic. Boavista is located just north of the city center, still a reasonably central location – just not walking distance from the Douro River. Instead of tourists, it is where you’ll find a wealthy residential group in Porto.

The neighborhood is centered around Avenida da Boavista, which runs directly from Porto and west towards the coast at a parallel to the Douro River. The closest point of Avenida da Boavista is the enormous grassy roundabout, which houses the town hall in the center and parklands for tourists and residents to enjoy. Boavista has a really unique layout, and it offers an entirely different experience than you’ll get staying downtown or near the waterfront of the Douro River.

The main benefit of staying in a residential area is escaping the other tourists. This means you can enjoy Porto more leisurely and without ducking constant camera snappers and swarms of people. If you are visiting for an extended period, with children, or as a digital nomad, Boavista will likely be an appealing option. Choosing Boavista means having a quiet bolt–hole that you can nip back to and use as a base.

Boavista is more modern than the rest of Porto’s center. The neighborhood was primarily developed in the 1960s, so you don’t get that same traditional architecture, including the colored townhouses. However, if you are happy to catch public transport for 15 minutes, that’s no skin off your nose. You can jump on the metro and admire specific architecture before returning to the less traditional Boavista for peace and quiet.

There are also many attractions in Boavista that you’d never visit if you stayed in Ribeira or Downtown Porto. For instance, the dramatic Casa da Musica concert hall and the Casa-Museu Marta Ortigao Sampaio – a local history museum. Staying off the expected tourist path has so many benefits, and staying in residential Boavista gives you access to some lesser-visited attractions, allowing you to experience Porto more deeply and authentically.

Staying in Boavista: The Pros and Cons

Pros of:

Residential atmosphere A few tourist attractions Fewer tourists Ideal for digital nomads or families

Cons of:

Less central Not as many tourist attractions Less nightlife No Douro River views

Highlights of Boavista:

Casa da Musica is one of the best attractions in Boavista. The dramatically designed concert hall holds regular performances for which you can book tickets during your stay. But even just admiring the outside is incredible. The bizarre-looking building is like some post-apocalyptic structure, with angular stone features and an abnormal shape, utilizing sporadically placed windows to maximize natural lighting. The 12-floor construction was completed in 2005, and even if concerts aren’t your thing, there’s a top-floor restaurant you can check out.

Casa-Museu Marta Ortigao Sampaio

Casa-Museu Marta Ortigao Sampaio is a local history museum with an off-the-beaten-track allure and fewer tourists. The museum is dedicated to the life of Marta, an upper-class girl born in the late 19th century. It is meant to provide insight into upscale residential life in this period, and you can explore the house, which is kept in the same state it would have been at the time. Casa-Museu Marta Ortigao Sampaio is like a historical time capsule. Remember to check out its jewelry collection, which spans over 300 pieces from the 17th to 20th century.

It may sound morbid, but Cemiterio de Agramonte is well worth visiting. The graveyard is full of ornate structures and sculptures, and for cat lovers, the tons of resident felines are a draw in itself. Cemiterio de Agramonte is steeped in history and has a beautiful, peaceful atmosphere. If you want something a little novelty, visiting Cemiterio de Agramonte is one of the highlights of Boavista.

Casa de Serralves is located off of Avenida da Boavista. The gigantic pink mansion is an Art Deco ode to contemporary art, and it is now a fully functional museum set on beautiful parkland grounds. If you have a warm day and want a full day of sightseeing near Boavista, Casa de Serralves is the perfect place to visit. You can admire the artwork on display inside and then head outside to the gardens to enjoy a picnic in the sun.

Best Places To Stay in Boavista

Budget: So Cool Hostel Porto

So Cool Hostel Porto is one of the most budget-friendly Porto accommodation options – especially if you are staying in Boavista. The hostel has mixed, single-sex, and private rooms on offer. You can also access a communal garden terrace, kitchen, and lounge.

Mid-range: Portus Cale Hotel

We all know that residential Boavista is a prime location to stay in Porto. Still, Portus Cale Hotel won us over with its spacious rooms and modern amenities for a mid-range hotel option. Some rooms have a business center, lounge, and even balconies. The Portus Cale Hotel is effortlessly sleek, with a glass-fronted exterior and modern furnishings.

Luxury: Porto Palacio Hotel by the Editor

Porto Palacio Hotel is a beautiful 5-star hotel overlooking Porto just minutes from the iconic Casa da Musica concert hall. There’s everything from a rooftop bar and sun terrace to a gym and spa – plus a conference center for anyone still tied to business duties. Each gets a complimentary breakfast as well.

4. Vila Nova de Gaia: Port Tasting

Vila Nova da Gaia is joined to Porto by the Luis I bridge and is technically its own separate city. The city has three main sections: a coastal section with a strip of beautiful beaches like Praia da Madalena, an inland area with tiled residential houses, and a waterfront section overlooking Porto and the Douro River. Vila Nova da Gaia has an entirely different atmosphere to the one you’ll find in Porto’s neighborhood, but that is what makes staying in Vila Nova da Gaia that extra bit enticing.

Vila Nova de Gaia is known primarily for port production and seafood, so if you like cuisine and port, Vila Nova da Gaia is the ideal base when visiting Porto. Similarly, it is also fantastic for those who have already seen Porto and are looking for a slightly different experience. Vila Nova da Gaia is beautiful in that you still get views of the Douro River, fantastic port-tasting opportunities, and insight into authentic Portuguese coastal cuisine.

However, it is worth noting that you’ll be further from significant attractions and overall less centrally located. If you are okay with catching public transport and not being within walking distance of Porto’s leading attractions, you’ll love it. Plus it will give a taste of authentic local life.

So, what can you enjoy in Vila Nova da Gaia? Let’s start with the beaches. The city has three main beaches: Praia dos Lavadores, Praia de Salgueiros, and Praia da Madalena. These stunning beaches are all free to enjoy and are famous for swimming and just lazing around on beach days, backed with boardwalks and bars for quick refreshments.

There are also attractions like the Pink Palace and port-tasting venues like Pocas. Vila Nova da Gaia is much more laidback than a die-hard tourist destination. It offers more ‘local’ attractions, like cafes and beaches, than city center-style attractions like galleries and museums.

If you are happy to push the boat out a little and explore somewhere that moves to the sound of its own drum, Vila Nova da Gaia is ideal. And if you are a seafood or port enthusiast, even better. Vila Nova da Gaia is a natural leader of Portugal’s culinary scene and a fantastic base if you want somewhere to stay in Porto that offers more authentic dining and tasting experiences. Plus, it is only 15 minutes away from central Porto via public transport or car. You could even walk across Ponte Luis I if you wanted – it takes less than an hour.

Staying in Vila Nova da Gaia: The Pros and Cons

Pros of:

Great seafood Great port Beaches More residential and off-the-beaten-track

Cons of:

Residential atmosphere Further from the center and actually a different city Fewer tourist attractions Less built for tourists

Highlights of Vila Nova da Gaia:

The street art is another huge draw of Vila Nova da Gaia. One of the most famous street art pieces is the Half Rabbit, located within walking distance of the Douro River. The colossal rabbit takes up an entire corner of a building, with half the face on each side of the building. It is a spectacular piece of a mixture of greys, blacks, and whites, with some added dashes of color. And if you fancy going on a mission to find this iconic bit of street art, you are in for a treat.

The Pink Palace Museum is a fun yet elegant experience for anyone who likes rose tasting and a good photo shoot. The entire museum is set up with different pink-inspired backdrops, and you can tour the various photoshoot opportunities and enjoy a rose wine-tasting experience. There are five stops in total, with five glasses of wine. It is entertaining, informative, and the perfect place to let your hair down.

Port tasting is the best, especially since Vila Nova de Gaia is known for its port wine. You can check out tons of port-tasting venues around the city, and indulging in port wine tasting is one of the leading activities and highlights of the neighborhood.

Best Places To Stay in Vila Nova da Gaia

Budget: Hostel Gaia Porto

Hostel Gaia Porto is the best affordable accommodation if you want to stay in Porto, specifically the Vila Nova de Gaia region. The hostel is set in a traditional building on the cobbles of a residential street – a scenic, peaceful setting for your stay in Porto. You can choose from mixed, single-sex, and private rooms. There’s also a communal kitchen and garden with skyline views.

Mid-range: Hotel Black Tulip

Hotel Black Tulip is a 4-star hotel with all the amenities you could need and airy rooms, some of which include separate living areas and balconies. The hotel is made of a striking mix of concrete and glass, and there’s a rooftop restaurant with spectacular city views. The whole place is divine and also meets a mid-range budget.

Luxury: Hilton Porto Gaia

The Hilton Porto Gaia is where to stay in Porto if you want luxury in Vila Nova de Gaia. The 5-star hotel comes with private parking, an indoor pool and sauna, and even services like airport transfers. Some rooms even come with a private terrace with Douro River reviews.

5. Bonfim: Looking For The Local Feel

Bonfim is where to stay if you are visiting Porto and want an insight into local life. Bonfim is located in east Porto, about 20 minutes by public transport from the center or an hour on foot. It has less in the way of organized tourist attractions and more of a residential appeal. It was also traditionally home to a sleepier demographic. But that’s not to say it is quieter than the more central neighborhoods now.

In fact, Bonfim is nicknamed the art district of Porto and has undergone a surge of gentrification that now means the area is highly sought-after by young professionals and students. Expect thrift markets and dated-looking buildings next to colorful street art pieces. This is the allure of Bonfim.

If the residential vibe of Boavista sounded good, but the ‘upscale’ part put you off, Bonfim is your ideal match. This neighborhood is the cool and youthful version of Boavista, with a creative vibe and plenty of trendiness. This is the sort of place you can bounce between coffee shops and accidentally spot street art. In short, Bonfim is where to stay in Porto if you want to be within walking distance from local coffee shops, craft beer, and vegan restaurants rather than the main attractions. It is off-the-beaten-path but in a cool, edgy way. Excited? You should be.

So, what are the best things to do in Bonfim? There’s the Casa Sao Roque art museum that you can wander around. There’s also the Military Museum Porto. Apart from those two traditional-style attractions, you’ll have to dig a little deeper to have fun in Bonfim. You could watch the sunset at Miradouro Fontainhas (which has incredible street art on dilapidated building ruins). You could also head to Do Arco da Belha – a wine bar meets vintage furniture store where you can shop and drink simultaneously. Bonfim is a bit of a lucky dip. Thanks to its blend of old and cool, you never quite know what you could be pulling out next.

As you can see, if you want a fun stay in Porto, Bonfim is an excellent choice. Keep yourself on your toes and creatively stimulated with this quirky, up-and-coming neighborhood. Plus, you are still only a short distance from all the attractions.

Staying in Bonfim: The Pros and Cons

Pros of:

Residential atmosphere Trendy and hip Fewer tourists An alternative, off-the-beaten-track experience

Cons of:

Residential atmosphere Further from the center of Porto Fewer tourist attractions Less built for tourists

Highlights of Bonfim:

Church of The Lord of Bonfim

This beautiful white Catholic church dates back to the 19th century and sports stunning neoclassical architecture. If you appreciate architecture or religious history, it is a spot to visit and admire in Bonfim and an excellent marker of the neighborhood’s more traditional roots. When you visit, note the two bell towers, and if you enter inside, take time to appreciate the ornate interior designs. The Church of The Lord of Bonfim isn’t overrun by tourists, and if you time your visit right, you may even get the place to yourself.

The Military Museum Porto opened its doors in 1977 and tells the story of Portugal’s military history and army forces. The museum is open every day but Monday, and it most impressively has 16,000 miniature army figures. You can also get up close to weaponry and even military vehicles. This museum is a real treasure trove and an ode to Portugal’s history. If you are interested in the military or history, it’s well worth visiting Bonfim.

Miradouro das Fontainhas is a beautiful viewpoint area right along the shoreline of the Douro River. You can visit at any time of the day. However, if you can time it with sunset, you’ll be spoiled with stunning river and city skyline views. Just make sure to leave some time beforehand to enjoy the views of the street art.

Casa Sao Rogue definitely fits in with the art district aesthetic Bonfim pioneers. The bright yellow art museum dates back to 1759 when it was initially a private manor and hunting house. However, it was most recently transformed into an art museum, showcasing various pieces, including temporary collections from artists like Peter Meeker. Casa Sao Rogue has a garden and indoor displays and is a serene place to admire art for an hour or two.

Best Places To Stay in Bonfim

Budget: O2 Hostel

The O2 Hostel is where you should stay in Porto if you are on a budget and love the trendy Bonfim area. The O2 Hostel is an eco-friendly accommodation choice in a renovated centenary building – one of the traditional buildings in Bonfim. You can access a communal kitchen, bathroom, lounge facilities, and dorm-style rooms.

Mid-range: Oca Oriental Porto Hotel

This modern hotel has superior rooms and suite options with separate living spaces. As a stylish hotel, Oca Oriental Porto Hotel has plenty of personality, and you’ll love all the little details with the furnishings. It also has a gym, parking, patio, and restaurant on-site.

Luxury: Hotel Vila Gale Porto

Hotel Vale Gale Porto might not be one of the traditionally ‘best’ luxury hotels to stay in Porto. However, the 4-star property is the best luxury option in Bonfim. You get an indoor pool and spa, plus stunning city views. Chosen suites have additional living spaces as well for a more comfortable experience.

Where to Stay in Porto: FAQs

So, now that you know where to stay in Porto let’s focus on the quick questions you may still have. As you know, picking an area to stay in Porto can be tricky with many brilliant options. To help narrow down your choices, we’ll answer some quick questions on visiting Porto and planning accommodation.

What is the best area in Porto to stay in?

Ribeira is best for anyone visiting Porto for the first time. You’ll have views of the Douro River and the medieval cobbled streets, and be within walking distance of all the main attractions in the city center. It is touristy, but loveably so. And if you visit during the off-season, you’ll find it much quieter and get the best of both worlds.

How many days are enough for Porto?

You can see all the leading attractions and squeeze in a good Porto itinerary with a three-day, four-night visit. Three days is the perfect time for a port wine tasting, sightseeing in the city center, and taking a river cruise. However, if you stay for five days, you can start incorporating some fabulous day trips – perhaps venturing to Lisbon, more rural villages, or having a beach day.

What is the main area of Porto?

The main area of Porto is Ribeira. This is the neighborhood closest to the Douro River, where you’ll find stunning, colourful houses and views of the Luis I bridge. It is also where you’ll find the most tourists – but you win some and lose some, right?

Is 3 nights in Porto too much?

Three nights in Porto is definitely not too much. Three nights in Porto allow you to enjoy a lovely evening meal and embrace Portuguese cuisine. You can also thoroughly enjoy the city’s center’s nightlife and evening cultural performances. And with four days, you can even plan a day trip.

Why We Loved Porto So Much

Are you excited now you know where to stay in Porto? Regardless of whether you want to be in Ribeira near all the main attractions or Vila Nova de Gaia so you can taste the best port, you’ll have a wonderful time. The coastal city has a beautiful selection of neighborhoods and hotels to suit all budget levels and where you stay in Porto dramatically shapes your experience while visiting the city.

Looking for more Porto inspiration? Check out our guide on the Douro Valley, and remember to take a day trip to Lisbon. There are also some of the best beaches in Portugal you can venture to on day trips from Porto. When you visit Porto, make sure you venture out of the city limits and make the most of Porto’s splendid location to see even more of Portugal.