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Porto Walking Tour: DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal

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Porto, Portugal is a stunningly beautiful city…and the absolute best way to experience it is on foot! We’ve created an easy-to-follow, Self-Guided Porto Walking Tour that includes all the top Porto sights. In addition to our step-by-step directions, we include a helpful Porto map at the end of this article.

Free Walking Tour Porto: A Self-Guided Porto Walk

Our Self-Guided Porto Free Walking Tour is perfect for visitors who prefer to discover at their own pace. For each Porto attraction, we include information about the sight, our insider tips and a location link.

About Our Free Tour of Porto, Portugal

We cover some ground in our Porto Walking Tour! There are 26 sights highlighted in our City Sightseeing Porto Tour. Plus, an additional 20+ attractions that are noted along the route. Visitors can enter these top Porto sights (some require a ticket) – or simply enjoy the walk and the atmosphere.

Our walking tour of Porto is a little over 5 miles in length. How long your Porto City Tour will take depends on your pace and how many sights you decide to enter. The Porto walking route itself – without visiting any churches or climbing the Porto bell tour – could take as little as 3 hours. However, travelers who want to step inside the markets and stop to see the cathedral interior could easily spend an entire day on our Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal.

Visitors who would prefer a leisurely pace can divide our route into 2 or 3 different Walking Tours in Porto. Below, we note the best places to break up the route into multiple days of Porto sightseeing.

Guided Porto Tours

While we think our Porto Self-Guided Walking Tour is the best way to explore the city. There are also numerous Porto Tours to consider. These include Porto Wine Tours, the Hop On Hop Off Porto Bus and Porto Boat Tours. We highlight top rated tours in Porto, Portugal that are led by local guides at the end of the article. 

Walking Tour of Porto: What You Will Need

Before you set off on your walking tour in Porto, make sure you have some of these travel essentials!

Walking Shoes 

Not only is Porto a hilly city, but many of the streets are cobblestone and some sidewalks have uneven pavement. For our DIY Free Porto Walking Tour, make sure you wear comfortable travel shoes . I wear these lightweight shoes by Columbia – and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes for urban walks.

Travel Camera 

Don’t forget your camera for your Porto sightseeing tour. The city is filled with incredible architecture and quaint lanes – and you will want to capture it all! Rather than relying on your phone, we recommend upgrading to an actual camera for high quality photos. We carry a Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens that takes excellent photos and is a fantastic DSLR budget camera option for travel.

Porto Weather Gear & Day Pack

Being so close to the sea, the weather in Porto can change quickly. While walking around Porto, we recommend bringing a travel umbrella or packable raincoat . In the summertime, a travel hat can provide protection from the sun – and it’s always a good idea to apply some sunscreen ! As you explore Porto, you will also want to carry a great day bag to organize all your essential travel items .

WiFi in Porto

Our DIY Walking Tour of Porto, Portugal is highlighted with information, tips and maps. In order to access our advice while touring Porto, it is necessary to have a WiFi connection .

While cell phone plans can be adjusted for data usage in other countries, it can be extremely expensive. Instead, we use a GlocalMe Mobile WiFi Hotspot – which is not only ideal for free walking tours, but for frequent travels abroad.

Perfect for families or friends traveling together, the hotspot can connect up to 10 devices and supports both SIM cards or eSIM data packages. We would have literally been lost in Porto without it!

An Actual Map of Porto

Call us old-fashioned, but even with a Wi-Fi connection, we think it is a good idea to carry a Porto map – like this one – when touring the city. In fact, we think it is best to purchase a map in advance of your trip so that you can study the layout. You might even prefer to highlight our Porto Walking Tour route so that you can easily follow along. 

Portugal Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may protect against flight cancellations or lost luggage , as well as when travelers get ill or injured abroad. Find out more about rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Helpful Information about Porto, Portugal

We share heaps of pertinent information throughout our outlined Self Guided Porto Walk. That said, we offer even more detailed advice in these Porto Travel Articles. 

• A Perfect Porto Itinerary
• What to Eat in Porto
• Best Porto Craft Beer Bars
• Things To Do in Braga on a Day Trip
• Visiting Aveiro, Portugal

Porto Walking Tour Itinerary

Visitors can choose to complete our self-guided Porto walk without making any stops or they can opt to enter attractions along the way. That said, it is important to check opening hours before you set out to ensure that you can visit the sights of interest during your walk. Alright, lace up your shoes, because it’s time to start your DIY Free Porto Walking Tour!

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Porto Travel Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!

#1 Liberdade Square and Statue of Dom Pedro IV

MAP . Start your city tour of Porto in Praca da Liberdade – or Liberty Square. Designed in the 18th century, the square long served as the central hub of political, economical and social life in Porto. Ringed by opulent architecture that dates to the early 1900s, the south end of the square is marked by a large equestrian statue dedicated to King Peter IV.  Note: The area’s currently a construction site for a new Porto Metro station.

Called ‘The Liberator’ and ‘The Soldier King’, King Peter IV is credited for freeing Brazil from colonization and fighting for a constitutional monarchy in Portugal. He so loved the people of Porto that he left them the gift of his heart, which today is housed in the Lapa Church.

Stroll north from the King Pedro IV Statue along Avenida do Aliados – and perhaps pop into the Imperial McDonald’s, which is often touted as the most beautiful McDonald’s restaurant in the world.

Directions : Walk to the City Hall building on the north end of the square.

#2 Porto Sign and Camara Municipal

MAP . Featuring a 230-foot-tall tower and carillon clock, the Camara Municipal – or City Hall Porto – is a must-see landmark on Porto city tours. Construction of the building began in 1920, but it wasn’t completed and finally occupied until 1957. Visitors can go inside to see the lavishly decorated lobby and get an elevated view of Praca da Liberdade.

Sitting in front of the City Hall building is a large, blue Porto sign. Visitors often climb on the sign to get their photo taken – but we prefer the view from in front of the fountain across the street, where you can see both the sign and City Hall.

Directions : Walk around City Hall to the north side. There you will find a pleasant square and the Trindade Church.

#3 Igreja da Santissima Trindade

MAP . Continue your Porto City Walking Tour at the church behind City Hall. Built in the 19th century, the Igreja da Santissima Trindade – or Holy Trinity Church – features a neoclassical façade and rising bell tower. The interior of the church is decorated with marble and gilded woodwork.

Directions : Walk east on Rua de Fernandes Tomas to the Bolhao Market. Along the route, you will pass by A Favorita do Bolhao (#783 Rua de Fernandes Tomas), a traditional grocery store – stocked with tinned sardines and typical Porto eats – which has been open for more than 80 years. Step inside and take a look!

#4 Mercado do Bolhao

MAP . Established in 1914 and recently reopened after a complete renovation, the Bolhao Market is a bustling building where all the best tours in Porto make a stop. Visitors can set off on a shopping spree down the lanes of stalls on the ground floor. Then get a bite to eat from vendors who sell local prepared delicacies and regional wine by the glass. While many choose to gather on the stairs on the north end, the Porto Bolhao Market also features several sit-down restaurants on the top floor.

Directions : E xit on the north side from the upper floor and walk east to the Capela de Santa Catarina.

#5 Capela das Almas (or Capela de Santa Catarina)

MAP . One of the most beautiful churches in Portugal, Capela das Almas is the next stop on our Best Porto Walking Tour. Also known as Capela de Santa Catarina – or Chapel of Souls and Chapel of Saint Catherine – the building dates to the early 18th century.

In 1929, the church was completely covered in the characteristic blue and white painted tiles, called azulejos. Although small, visitors should step inside to see the interior as well. It’s one of the best free things to do in Porto!

Directions : W alk south on Rua de Santa Catarina, the famous pedestrian-only Porto shopping street.

#6 Rua de Santa Catarina (Shopping Street Porto)

MAP . A nearly 5000-foot-long shopping street, Rua de Santa Catarina is lined with name-brand stores, specialty shops, restaurants and cafes. The area is one of the top places to go in Porto – not only for shopping, but simply for strolling. 

As you meander south along the promenade, stop into Fabrica da Nata for a traditional Portuguese egg custard tart fresh from the oven. At the next intersection (R. Formosa), detour a few steps to the west and step back in time at the traditional A Perola do Bolhao shop where they sell sweet treats, cured meats, wine and deli items.

Directions : Continue walking south on Rua de Santa Catarina to Majestic Cafe (which will be on your left).

#7 Majestic Café

MAP . Porto’s glamorous Majestic Café was first opened in 1921 under the name Café Elite. The stylish establishment attracted Porto’s most renowned citizens – from politicians to poets. In the 1980s, the building was declared a Cultural Heritage Site, even though it was in a state of disrepair after being left abandoned.

Since its full renovation, the Majestic Café has been restored to its former glory. Tuxedoed waiters greet patrons at the door and the coffee is ridiculously expensive for Porto, but the french toast gets rave reviews and the lavish interior is truly a sight to behold. All in all, it’s a great place to take a quick break during your Porto Walking Tour Self-Guided Route. 

Directions: Continue walking south to Rua de Passos Manuel, and turn left. Walk east past the art deco Coliseu Porto Ageas theater to Praca dos Poveiros square. Pass through the square to the quaint park on the southeast corner.

#8 Jardim Marques de Oliveira Porto

MAP . Porto’s oldest park, Jardim Marques de Oliveira, opened in 1834. The lovely space features an old gazebo, fountains, statues, benches and bright flowers. An ideal place to rest weary feet, the park is also the meeting place for older gentlemen who come to play cards.

Several of our favorite restaurants are located in the area around the park – like Casa Guedes, Venham Mais 5 and Cafe Santiago. If you’ve managed to hold out for lunch, we recommend eating at one of these iconic spots. Find all of our foodie tips in our guide to Porto Food: What and Where To Eat in Porto .

Directions : From Praca dos Poveiros, walk west on Rua de Santo Ildefonso to Igreja de Santo Ildefonso church.

#9 Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and Praca da Batalha

MAP . The Baroque Igreja de Santo Ildefonso – or Church of Saint Ildefonso – was built in the early 1700s. It took 30 years to complete – and was officially opened in 1739. In 1932, the church’s facade was covered in 11,000 of the traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles. The tiles were painted by Portuguese artist, Jorge Colaco, who is responsible for many of the azulejo murals that you will notice while on Porto walks.

If the gates are open, the interior is also quite impressive and free to visit. There is a small museum on-site as well that requires a ticket to enter.

Praca da Batalha – or Batalha Square – expands around the corner. The open space is bordered by the Batalha Palace (which dates to the 18th century), the Royal Theatre of Sao Joao Opera House (built in 1908 on the former site of a theater dating to 1794) and the Cinema Batalha (an art deco theater built in 1947). A statue of King Pedro V, which was dedicated in 1866, stands in the center of the square.

Directions: From the church, walk west and downhill on Rua de 31 de Janeiro, enjoying the view of Clerigos Tower. At the bottom of the hill, turn left onto Praca de Almeida Garrett and enter the Sao Bento Train Station.

#10 Sao Bento Train Station Porto

MAP . The always-buzzing Sao Bento Railway Station was constructed in the early 1900s – and the true gem of the stately 3-story granite building is the grand entrance hall. The interior of São Bento is decorated with 20,000 azulejo tiles – a project that took 11 years to complete (by artist Jorge Colaco, of course).

The colorful upper tiles feature the different modes of transport that have been used in Portugal. The blue and white tile murals depict important scenes in Portuguese history. The station is featured in all of the best Porto Free Walking Tours and sightseeing guides – and for good reason!

Directions: Exit the station and turn right. Walk north across the street to the Church of St. Anthony.

#11 Igreja de Santo Antonio dos Congregados

MAP . The Igreja de Santo Antonio do Congregadas – or the Church of St. Anthony – has a history that stretches to the late 17th century. Dedicated to St. Anthony (the patron saint of Lisbon), the exterior tiles portray the story of the saint’s life. The church is free to visit – and many of Porto’s faithful residents are often found inside praying. 

Directions: W alk west (passing where this tour began) and start the climb toward the Clerigos Bell Tower. On the south side of the street is O Mundo Fantastico das Sardinhas Poruguesas – a popular Porto tinned sardine store. Further up is Confeitaria dos Clerigos, which is a local bakery offering traditional Portuguese snacks. Continue walking uphill and find the entrance to on the north side.

#12 Igreja dos Clerigos and Porto Bell Tower

MAP . The Igreja dos Clerigos – or Church of the Clergymen – was built in the mid-1700s in the Baroque style (one of the first of its kind in Portugal). The iconic bell tower stands nearly 200-feet-tall – and has long been a symbol of Porto.

Climbing the 240 steps to the top requires a ticket . It includes entrance to the museum and is one of the top things to do in Porto. The church interior own it’s own can be visited for free. It is well worth spending some time here when walking Porto to enjoy these sights. 

Directions: W alk north across the Praca de Lisboa. Go through the shops or on the grassy park on top of them to the Livraria Lello Bookstore.

#13 Livraria Lello (Famous Porto Bookstore)

MAP . The Livraria Lello – or Lello Bookstore – ranks as one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal. When it first opened in 1906, the incredibly ornate bookshop was an instant hit with intellectuals and quickly became a part of the cultural life in Porto.

Lello Bookstore is said to be the inspiration for some of the scenes in JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series. There are rumors that she even wrote the book in the shop. Due to it’s insane popularity, visiting is no longer one of the free things to do in Porto, Portugal. Tickets are now required to enter and should be booked in advance.

Directions : W alk northwest on Rua das Carmelitas toward the 19th century Fonte dos Leoes (Lions Fountain) that fronts the stoic University of Porto building. Continue walking northwest across the square and tram tracks to the famous tiled ‘double’ churches.

#14 Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas

MAP . The Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas – the Carmo Church and Carmelitas Church – are both a stunning and peculiar sight in Porto. The two extravagant churches stand side-by-side, separated only by a narrow house.

Carmelitas Church, which is on the left, was built in the 17th century as part of a convent; it features a bell tower and an intricately decorated interior. The Carmelitas Church is free to visit.

The Carmo Church, on the right, was built in the 18th century for Carmelite monks. Designed in the Baroque style, the exterior has dynamic embellishments on the front and extensive azulejos tiles on the east-facing wall. The interior of the Carmo Church is lavishly decorated with gilded woodwork. To visit the Carmo Church, guests need to purchase a ticket – which also allows entry into the ‘Hidden House,’ the crypt, rooftop and other rooms within the complex.

Theories abound as to why the two churches were built next to each other but separated by a slender home; some say it was to keep the monks and nuns from becoming too friendly, while other tales say a law prohibited two churches from being built with a common wall. In any event, the cramped house was actually used as a residence until the 1980s!

Directions: Walk north along the east side of Carmo Church to the small square, Praca de Carlos Alberto.

#15 Praca de Carlos Alberto

MAP . Named after an exiled king who lived in a palace on the square in the 1800s, Praca de Carlos Alberto – or Carlos Alberto Square – is small, but beautiful. The black and white tiled pavement (which is so characteristic of Portugal) draws the eye to the solemn World War I monument (Monumento aos Mortos da Grande Guerra) that stands on the north end.

On Saturdays, the Porto Belo Street Market takes place here. The quaint square is one of our favorite places to pass through on a walk around Porto.

Directions: Retrace your steps past the Carmo Church and continue walking south on Praca de Parade Leitao (on the west side of the University of Porto building). Enter the shaded Jardim da Cordoaria and cross the street to Largo Amor de Perdição in front of the massive Centro Portugues de Fotografia Museum. If time allows, detour to the immaculate Igreja Sao Jose das Taipas Church. Next, walk Rua de Sao Bento da Vitoria south to Miradouro da Vitoria.

#16 Miradouro da Vitoria Porto

MAP . Offering one of the best views of Porto, Miradouro da Vitoria is a small gated viewpoint that sits in front of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Vitória church. The panoramic vista encompasses the Se Cathedral, Ponte Luis I Bridge, the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia and the tiled rooftops of the Ribeira district. This a top spot for amazing Porto photos.

Directions: Exit through the gate and turn right. Then left onto Rua da Vitoria and right at Rua do Ferraz and follow it down to Rua das Flores. 

#17 Rua das Flores Pedestrian Street

MAP . Another one of the pretty Porto walking streets, Rua das Flores is a must to stroll down at least once on your visit. Coffee or chocolates, wine or cocktails, window shopping or people watching, Rua das Flores has it all, and you’ll never walk alone!

Directions: At the bottom (south end) of Rua das Flores is Largo São Domingos square. Pause to enjoy the architecture and ponder the odd pillars. Then continue down R. de Sousa Viterbo and up the red iron staircase to Mercado Ferreira.

#18 Mercado Ferreira Borges

MAP . Dating to 1885, the Ferreira Borges Market – which was named for a famous local politician – is a historic Porto landmark…yet, oddly it was never used as a marketplace. Instead, it served various random purposes – such as a military warehouse and local soup kitchen.

The city nearly tore it down in the 1970s to build a parking lot, but it was saved for its unique iron design. In 2010, the space was renovated to host a night club, live music venue and restaurant. During the day there’s a small cafe and bar where you can grab a beverage and enjoy it al fresco with a beautiful Porto view! (Plus, there are free public toilets inside.)

Directions: Exit the market building and walk south into the Jardim do Infante D. Henrique park. At the center is a statue dedicated to Prince Henry the Navigator. On the west side of the park is Palacio da Bolsa.

#19 Palacio da Bolsa

MAP . The neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa – or Stock Exchange Palace – took nearly 70 years to complete, from 1842 until 1910.  Still the headquarters of the Commercial Association of Porto, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a museum (tickets required), conference center and restaurant.

Directions: Walk to the south side of the Palacio da Bolsa and take the stairs up to the Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco.

#20 Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco

MAP . A stunning Gothic structure, the Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco – or the Monument Church of Saint Francis – was built between 1383 and 1425. While the exterior has remained relatively the same through the years, the interior was renovated in the 18th century with a grandiose Baroque flair.

It is estimated that 650 pounds of gold decorate the church’s interior. In 1832 during the Siege of Porto, a fire destroyed the attached cloisters (which is now where the Palacio da Bolsa stands), but thankfully the church was left undamaged. A ticket is required to enter.

Directions: Retrace your steps to the southeast corner in front of the church. Cross the street to the south and make a short stop at the blue tiled Church of St. Nicholas. Then continue west to Rua da Alfandega, turning right to walk south toward the river. Take your first left onto the narrow Rua da Fonte Taurina and walk along the narrow curving street to Praca da Ribeira. 

#21 Ribeira District and Cais da Ribeira Porto

MAP . One of the oldest neighborhoods in Porto and a UNESCO site, the riverside Ribeira District is a tangle of medieval streets and ancient structures. Once a bustling port, the old warehouses are now prime locations for many of the most popular Porto restaurants and bars. The upper, terraced residences still serve their original purpose. While many have been converted to tourist accommodations, some are still occupied by locals, whom you may see hanging laundry or watering plants.

At the heart of the district is the Praca da Ribeira. Long serving as a center of commerce and community, the Ribeira Square opens to the Douro River. The city walls were torn down in the 1800s. At the north end is a fountain – and above it is a Portuguese coat of arms that dates to the late 1700s and a statue of St. John the Baptist.

The Cais da Riveira – or the Waterfront – is a wide, pedestrian zone lined with cafes and restaurants. Across the Douro River you’ll have a clear view of Vila Nova de Gaia and it’s numerous Porto Wine Cellars. We will visit these later in our Porto Walking Tour.

Many of the popular Rabelo boat tours – like the 6 Bridge Tour – depart from the docks here along the riverside. If time permits, go ahead and give your feet a rest and hop on a Douro River Tour!

Directions: Continue along the Waterfront to the east and pass under the bridge. Either take the Funicular dos Guindais up to Batalha station (ticket required) or walk up the stairs (just past the funicular station) to the south end of Batalha Square. Walk west along the south side of Rua de Saraiva de Carvalho to the small park. Find the nearly hidden Igreja de Santa Clara Church.

#22 Igreja de Santa Clara Porto

MAP . Built in the early 1400s, the Igreja de Santa Clara – or St. Clara Church – has a modest exterior, but a dazzling interior. Originally constructed as part of a convent, the church was modified throughout the years and now features an exquisite glittering gold interior.

An inexpensive ticket is required to enter – which includes visiting the main church, plus the upper room. 

Directions:   Continue walking west to the Se do Porto Cathedral.  

#23 Se do Porto Cathedral

MAP . The Se do Porto – or the Porto Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady – marks the historical center of Porto. It took more than 600 years – from the 1100s to the 1700s – to complete, in which time many adjustments and alterations were made to the original plans resulting in a mix of architectural styles. In the mid-1700s, famous Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, added a Baroque flair to the cathedral. 

The dominating hilltop structure features two towers, an ornate interior and a cloister. There is a fee to enter the church, but the ticket allows visitors to climb to the top of the tower for great views of Porto.

Fronting the church is a large square which also offers nice views over the river and Vila Nova de Gaia. At the center of the square is a decorated pillar, which once served as a place for hangings.

Directions: Exit to the north of the Cathedral, taking a closer look at the azulejos tiles that decorate the walls. Turn right (south) onto the pedestrian-only street and walk onto the upper level of the bridge.

#24 Ponte Luis I Bridge Porto

MAP . Designed in the late 1800s by Théophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, the double-decker iron Ponte Luis I Bridge is the most beautiful bridge in the city. Connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, the bridge was an engineering feat of its time. Originally, both levels were utilized for vehicles, but since the early 2000s, the top deck only accommodates trams and pedestrians, while the lower crossing is used by cars and people – although the sidewalks are quite narrow and crowded.

Pedestrians can get a peek at another famous Porto bridge, Dona Maria Pia, which is also made of iron, that straddles the Douro just upstream. The twin bridges are named after Portugal King Luis I and his wife, Maria Pia of Savoy.

Directions: Cross the bridge from Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia – taking in the views of the river from both sides – just watch for trams! Once across, continue walking south on the east side of Avenida da Republica. At the first intersection, make a sharp left U-turn onto the ramp that leads up to the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar.

#25 Miradouro da Serra do Pilar

MAP . The round, white Serra do Pilar church – part of a former 16th century monastery – can clearly be seen from many places around Porto. While most of the monastery is now used by the military, part of it is open as a museum (ticket required). However, it’s the Porto city views from the elevated square that make it worth trekking up the hill!

Directions: Take the ramp back down and cross through Jardim do Morro park (which also has nice views and plenty of places to sit and relax). On the far side, find the staircase that leads down to Calcada da Serra Street. Turn right and start the downhill trek (including the hairpin left just after passing under the bridge) to the Vila Nova de Gaia Riverside. Alternatively, buy a ticket and take a ride on the Teleferico Gaia Cable Car!

#26 Vila Nova de Gaia

MAP . Vila Nova de Gaia – or just Gaia – is a separate municipality from Porto, yet it is a must-see for Porto visitors. Gaia is famous for being home to numerous Port Wine Cellars and the views of Porto from the waterfront are simply spectacular.

For those who may not know, Port is the famous Portuguese fortified wine made exclusively in the Douro Valley. The vineyards are located upstream from Gaia and we include a day tour to the region in our Complete Itinerary for Porto .

The wine was traditionally transferred by rabelos boats to be processed and stored in Gaia warehouses along the river and in the sprawling neighborhood to the south. When the Port wine was ready, it was loaded onto bigger boats and shipped all around the world.

A wide pedestrian walkway in Gaia parallels the river – and port wine tasting rooms, restaurants and cafes line the path. Visitors can join cellar tours ( book in advance ), sip port on an elevated terrace or get an inexpensive tasting along with petiscos – small plates for sharing – at the countless number of bars and cafes.

At the west end of the waterfront is the Natas D’ouro bakery (one of our favorite Pastel de Nata bakeries!) and the Mercado Beira Rio, which features an array of cuisine from top area restaurants.

You can continue touring the area on a Gaia cellar walk (use these directions ) and seek out some of the interesting street art down the narrow lanes. Another way to end your day of Porto sightseeing is with a combined evening port wine tasting and Fado show at the Calem cellars (but you need to book your seat in advance ).

That ends our Self-Guided Free Porto Walking Tour! Below is our Porto Map of Sights, as well as tips for other interesting tours in Porto.

Shorter Porto Walking Tours

Our Porto walk can easily fill an entire day of exploration. Those who would rather break it up into multiple Porto, Portugal walking tours, however, can easily do so. 

2 Porto, Portugal Self-Guided Tours

To split our Self-Guided Porto Free Walk into two tours, we recommend seeing sights 1-21 on Day 1, then exploring sights 22-26 on Day 2.

3 Self-Guided Walking Tours: Porto, Portugal

For shorter routes, our Walking Tour of Porto can be divided into three separate outings. First see sights 1-10 from our DIY Free Tour Porto, then explore stops 11-21 for historic Porto attractions. Finally, discover Gaia with sights 22-26.

Porto, Portugal Map

Use this Google Map to find an interactive version of all the stops on our Free Porto Walking Tour below. You can also pick up a free Porto tourist map at the Tourist Information Office.

Porto Walking Tour Map and Directions

In our Porto Walking Tour Self Guided route, we include written directions, as well as a map link to each sight – and the above Porto Map of Attractions.

Travelers who wish to divide up the route or want step-by-step directions can use these Google Map links for our Porto Walking Tour to navigate from one sight to the next.

• Tour 1 – Sights 1-10 Map
• Tour 2 – Sights 11-21 Map
• Tour 3 – Sights 22-26 Map

More Tours in Porto, Portugal

While we think our walk outlines the best Porto free tour to begin your visit, there are many other tours that provide an excellent experiences. Below we share some of the top rated offers with the option to book your spot!

Douro River Cruise Tours Porto

There are numerous Porto river trips – but a 6 Bridges Cruise is the most popular way to see the sights by boat. On this affordable 50-minute Porto boat cruise, visitors board a traditional Rabello boat for a tour on the Douro River. Book it now!

Porto Wine Tour

Wine is part of the culture in Porto – and it’s not just about port! Join an afternoon tour for an introduction to Porto wine. On these guided tours participants will get to taste 3 wines and learn about the history of wine making in the region. Get the details!

Pro Tip : Visitors can also take a Porto Cellar Tour that details the process of making port – with a p tasting at the end! Learn more!

Porto Food Tour

We love the food in Portugal! Fellow travelers can use our Porto Food Guide to create their own foodie tour. For those who would rather a guide lead the way can join this highly-rated group Food Tour in Porto. Reserve your spot!

Guided Walking Tour Porto

We won’t take it personally if you would rather a guide show you the sights – and there are many top-rated Guided Walking Tours in Porto to choose from. On this 3-Hour Guided Porto Sightseeing Tour, you learn about the history of the city from a local and get insider tips, too. Find out more!

Porto Private Tour

Travelers who prefer a private tour of Porto can also hire a local guide. On this popular half day Porto tour, guests get a personalized introduction and local knowledge. Book it!

Guided Free Tour Porto

Visitors looking for a Guided Oporto Free Tour should check out the Porto Sandemans Tour. Just keep in mind that the Free Walking Tour Porto Guides expect – and hopefully deserve – to be tipped. Guests who do not want to pay a guide should stick with our outlined Self-Guided Walking Tour Porto!

Porto Bus Tour: Hop On Hop Off

To avoid walking the hills and battling the crowds, take the Hop On Hop Off Bus in Porto instead! The Porto Sightseeing Bus has two routes that make stops at major attractions and includes commentary in 8 different languages. Book it now!

Pro Tip: Experience top Porto attractions with a combo ticket that includes the Hop On Hop Off Bus, a River Boat Ride and a Port Cellar Tour. Get the Details!

Porto Tram Tour

An alternate way to see the city in a DIY style is on a Porto Tram City Tour. Although not really an official Porto tour, visitors ride the historic trams to many of the sights. Find more info about using the trams to tour Porto on the official transportation website .

Porto Bike Tour

While we think we have given you the best walking tour Porto, bike tours in Porto are a fabulous way to sightsee! Rather than walking in Porto, follow a guide on two wheels on a 3 hour guided tour across town. Get the details!

More Portugal Travel Tips

We’ve got you started with the best free walking tour in Porto. However, there is a lot more involved in planning a trip to Portugal. We share our top tips for what to do and see – plus advice on where to stay and how to get there – in our Detailed Itinerary for Porto .

For those visiting Porto from abroad should also read our Advice for Planning a European Vacation .

More Travel Tips for Portugal can be found in our other free travel guides. 

• 10 Day Portugal Itinerary
• Plan an Amazing Lisbon Itinerary
• Where to find the Best Lisbon Viewpoints and beautiful Lisbon Churches
• A Guide to Free Things To Do in Lisbon
• How To Plan a DIY Sintra Day Trip
• What To See in Belem and How To Visit Cristo Rei from Lisbon
• Madeira Island Itinerary
• Things To Do in Funchal, Portugal
• What To Eat on Madeira Island

Stay Organized with a Travel Planner

As you research and make reservations for your Porto, Portugal trip, you need to stay on top of the details. With our Printable Travel Planner – you can keep organized so that nothing falls through the cracks!

Start planning your trip to Portugal ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN PORTO

• PRIVATE TOURS

Free Tour of Porto

Book the original Porto free walking tour and visit many of the city's highlights with a local guide

Ribeira Free Walking Tour

The scenic walking tour that explores Porto's neighbourhoods along the Douro riverbanks

2-hour Porto Highlights Private Tour

Make the most out of your visit and discover Porto's top attractions with your private tour guide

3-hour Porto Private City Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Porto's fascinating history and must-see sites with your private t ...

Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.

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Discover the many faces of Porto with a passionate local guide

Porto might be famous for the Port wine cellars that line its riverbanks, but this coastal city was pivotal to Portugal’s success and growth. Great expeditions, ancient buildings and the formation of the navy are just some of the stories you will learn about from some of Porto’s best local tour guides.

The original Free Tour of Porto covers many of Porto’s top attractions in its UNESCO World Heritage Site center, including the Porto Cathedral, Dom Luís Bridge, São Bento station, Lello Bookstore, Clérigos Church and much more. After you’ve got the overview with the free walking tour, delve deeper with us!

Explore the popular Ribeira neighbourhood and take in the stunning views by the riverside on the Douro River walking tour or wind down your afternoon with some drinks on our Port wine cellar visit and tasting tour .

For those of you who want to escape the city for a day, we offer a day trip to the charming birthplace of Portugal, Guimaraes .

One thing’s for sure; the top things to do and see in Porto can all be found on a SANDEMANs tour!

Enjoy authentic local experiences

Porto is part of the SANDEMANs NEW Europe network, one of the largest walking tour companies in the world. Offering daily tours in English and Spanish, we believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Porto's best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style.

Aside from the Free Tour, in Porto you’ll also find unforgettable tours and experiences. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!

Tours & activities across Europe, Israel & USA

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• Top quality tours with local guides, whatever your budget

Things to do in Porto

Ready to start exploring Porto? Check out these useful tips and don't miss any of the city's main attractions

The best accommodation in town

Finding the right place to stay can be difficult - that's why we have sorted you out with a list of our favourite hostels and hotels in Porto

The best places to eat in Porto

Don't fall into any tourist trap! Here's a list of the top places to eat in Porto recommended by locals

The greatest bars in the city

Discover our selection of popular spots among the locals to taste delicious local Port wine

The best shopping in Porto

Find everything you are looking for with this guide to the best shops, markets and shopping streets in Porto

The local expert guides we work with are proud to show you the best Porto has to offer!

Scroll through to learn more about these unforgettable guides, including where they’re from, why they love Porto and which tours they can offer you.

Participation in tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe is strictly on a voluntary basis. Neither SANDEMANs NEW Europe, nor the self-employed freelance guides who are the providers of the tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe, will be held responsible in any way for injuries to body or property incurred during tours. The tour guides reserve the right to deny participation in any tour, to any person, for any reason. Thank you for your understanding.

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Free Porto Walking Tours

Which free tour is best.

Whether you’re interested in learning more about the history of Porto or its most notable landmarks, there are several free walking tours available in this city that we will cover in this post.

All tours are offered by local tour guides.

• Overview + Schedule

Old Town Porto

• Alternative Porto
• Harry Potter Tours
• Douro River Cruises
• Porto Wine Tours
• Tours in Lisbon

O VERVIEW + SCHEDULE

Porto, Portugal is rich with history and culture both modern and centuries-old, which explains why tour companies offer so many different types of services in this city.

Most of these outings are focused on orientation, offering several important details about the city centre, otherwise known as Old Town Porto .

The tours listed below are run through us. More tours are available in the following sections.

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Here is a calendar with more of the best free walking tours in Lisbon.

Other tours explore some of the beautiful street art on display throughout the city.

There are also free walking tours that focus on the ways in which Porto inspired Harry Potter and how women shaped the city both in the past and today.

What is a free tour of Porto? They are pay-what-you-wish tours, which means that you can decide what the service was worth, or what you could afford after the tour is over.

You are not obligated to pay anything, but according to online reviews, most people give between €5 - €20 each to Porto's best local tour guides.

In addition to fully guided tours, there are also self-guided tours you can use to explore the city at your own leisure.

Tours are typically offered in English, Spanish, and sometimes other languages such as French and German.

We offer tours globally . Here are just a few cities.

•  Barcelona

As the name implies, these free Porto walking tours provide a closer look at the historic center of the city.

They cover topics like how Porto became such an important location and which buildings/landmarks played a significant role.

There are several options to choose from, but no matter which service you pick, you can usually expect to visit some of the following locations and monuments:

• Praça da Liberdade
• Porto Cathedral
• Tower of Clérigos
• University of Porto
• São Bento Train Station
• Palacio da Bolsa
• Douro Riverside
• Clérigos Tower
• Arrabida Bridge

Along the way, you'll experience a lot of incredible architecture, histyoric baroque churches, and more.

Your knowledgeable guide will likely point you in the direction of the best cafes, restaurants, and other places to visit while you're in the area.

The historic city centre of Porto is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so these tours cover one of the most notable locations on the globe.

If you’re interested in learning more about these sites or seeing them up close, consider taking a Porto free walking tour listed below.

Take Porto Tours

Visit the heart of Porto on this 2 ½ hours free walking tour which covers some of the most historic locations.

Along the way, you’ll get an introduction to the city with plenty of advice and suggestions for how to get the most out of your trip.

Available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, this tour is offered twice per day at 10:30 am and 15:30 (3:30 pm).

This company also offers pay-what-you-wish walking tours in Lisbon .

Learn more or book the tour .

1-2 Porto Tours

This is a somewhat newer tour company, and they are quickly making a name for themselves with one of the best free walking tours in the city.

Over the course of 2 ½ hours, you’ll learn about the history of Porto from its birth to the Carnation Revolution and beyond, even offering a few details about modern life and culture.

You can take this tour in either English or Spanish twice per day at 10:15 am and 15:15 (3:15 pm).

Book this tour or learn more .

Hi Porto Walking Tours

Much like the other companies on this list, Hi Porto provides this pay-what-you-wish tour two times a day at 11 am and 15:30 (3:30 pm) in both English and Spanish.

Get more information or book this tour .

Additional Old Town Porto Tours

In addition to the tours we’ve already mentioned, there are a few more options you might want to consider which are also excellent services covering the historic center of Porto.

• Sandeman New Europe
• Porto Walkers
• The Walking Parrot

City Lovers Tours

P orto street art tours.

These tours focus on a different side of Porto, giving you a look at how modern culture has helped shape the city just as much as its medieval history.

While on these outings, you can expect to learn about and see a variety of significant street art, sculptures, and ancient buildings in various neighborhoods that will usually take you off the beaten track.

Here are a few of the most notable stops included on these free walking tours:

• Lello Bookstore
• Porto University
• Rua da Madeira
• National Theatre
• Dom Luís Bridge
• Rua de Santa Catarina
• Carmo & Carmelita Church

If you want to discover what makes these locations so interesting, consider taking one of the pay-what-you-want tours below.

While their Old Town tour covers some of the most important histories from centuries past, this outing is all about street art and its influence on modern culture in Porto.

This 2 ½ hour tour is available in both English and Spanish every Tuesday and Friday at 15:30 (3:30 pm).

Book your tour or learn more .

Available in both English and Spanish, you can take this 2 ½ hour tour daily at 16:30 (4:30 pm).

Street Art in Porto Self-Guided Tour

This self-guided tour provides stops at a dozen different examples of interesting or culturally significant street art in Porto.

Although you won’t have a professional tour guide to provide additional details about each piece of art along the way, this is an entirely free option that you can use whenever you want.

H ARRY POTTER TOURS IN PORTO

Did you know that J.K. Rowling actually lived in Porto when she was working on her first manuscript for Harry Potter?

Thanks to this history behind the books, there are some companies offering tours of the city which focus on areas that may have inspired this fantasy world of wizards.

There’s at least one free option and another service you may want to consider which has very low ticket costs.

While on these tours you can expect to see some of the following locations:

• Palacio Atlántico
• Cafe Majestic

Harry Potter and the Heroes of Porto

This is actually a virtual tour, and it’s free to join and works on the pay-what-you-wish model once the tour is over.

While enjoying this online experience, you’ll see 7 notable locations that reveal some of the potential influences Porto may have had on the book series.

As long as you have a computer or tablet which can stream both audio and video, you can take this pay-what-you-wish tour.

It generally runs every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday in English ( Book here ).

It generally runs every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 19:30 (7:30 pm) in Spanish ( Book here ).

Aside from its historical and cultural tours, this company also offers a Harry Potter tour which provides information about how the magical world of J.K. Rowling’s books came to exist.

Although Take Porto Tours offers a lot of free tours, this is one service that requires you to purchase a ticket, just €15 per person.

This outing is approximately 2 - 2 ½ hours long, and it’s available every Saturday at 11 am.

If you’re planning to visit Lisbon as well, it’s worth keeping in mind that Take Tours also offers its services in that city.

An Unexpected Harry Potter Porto Tour

If you’re looking for another free alternative, this self-guided tour covers some of the most important sites in Porto which are linked to the history of Harry Potter.

The only disadvantage of this option is that it is not professionally guided, but it is entirely free to use.

Although you could take it anytime you want, many of the stops included close down in the evening, so it makes more sense to enjoy this outing sometime in the morning or afternoon.

Learn more or take this self-guided Harry Potter tour .

MYSTERIES AND LEGENDS OF PORTO

If you're curious about some of the creepier aspects of Porto's history, these outings provide information about the most grizzly tales that have haunted this city for generations.

Here are a few of the sites and secrets you can expect to be covered on these tours:

• Rua das Flores
• Courtyard of the Hanged
• Old Armenian Quarter
• Medieval Wall
• Louis I Bridge

This type of free walking tour Porto offers is similar to a ghost tour, but it covers more historical fact than supernatural activity. Still, if you're in the mood for a disturbing night tour, consider one of these outings!

In addition to their standard Old Town tour, this company also offers an outing called "Dark Porto" which covers various mysteries, legends, and crimes from throughout the history of this city.

This 2-hour and 15-minute outing is available in English at 18:00 (6 pm) every Tuesday - Sunday. You can also take the tour in Spanish nightly at 18:30 (6:30 pm).

This is another company that offers an outing covering this subject called the "Mysterios Porto Fair" tour.

You can take this 1 hour and 45-minute tour in Spanish every night at 19:15 (7:15 pm).

DOURO RIVER CRUISES

If you're interested in seeing this historic city from the water, there are plenty of Douro River cruise options you might want to consider. Unfortunately, these waterfront outings are not free, but the average price is between €15-€20, so it's a pretty affordable activity.

Here are a few of the best cruises and boat tours you can enjoy on the Douro Riverbanks.

PORTO WINE TOURS

There are several tours from Porto that cover some of the best wines which come from the region.

These outings typically visit wineries, wine cellar locations, or even the Douro Valley Vineyards to give visitors a closer look at how wine is made in Porto.

Some tours also include wine tastings for guests!

As with Douro River Cruises, these services are not free, and in this case, they can run up to €100 or more, but some are as low as €20.

Here are a few of the best options to consider.

And much, much more

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The essential free tour of porto.

Take is a small local company that wants to show its cities to the world. We have a team of talented and passionate guides who want to show you the nooks and crannies, secrets and stories of our unforgettable city. Come and discover Lisbon, Porto, Braga and Guimarães and all the charms and charisma of Portugal. 2018, 2019 & 2020 Certificates of Excellence by TripAdvisor.

• No minimum number of attendees No minimum number of attendees is required for the tour
• Free booking and cancellation Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free

Tour description

Embark on the Essential Porto Free Tour, a journey that weaves through the fabric of time, revealing the soul of Porto in a tapestry of stories, architecture, and vistas that leave an indelible mark on the heart. This narrative is not just a guide; it's an invitation to wander, to discover, and to fall in love with a city that thrives on its past and pulses with the vibrancy of the present. Every Porto Free Walking Tour provides a unique adventure. The featured stops listed can differ due to the tour guide's decision and circumstances such as weather or ongoing events in the area. Should you have a particular interest in any highlight, it's advisable to speak with your guide before the tour commences to confirm its inclusion in that day's route.

Hall and Avenida dos Aliados Your adventure begins at the Hall and Avenida dos Aliados, where the essence of Porto's storied past and its ascent as a commercial powerhouse unfolds. As you stroll down this iconic boulevard, encased in breathtaking architecture, each building whispers tales of ambition, conflict, and triumph. Here, amidst the grandeur, you'll unravel the mysteries of the liberal wars and the enigma of King Pedro IV's heart enshrined in his statue—a testament to the city's enduring spirit.

Literary Magic and Academic Traditions The world-renowned Bookstore Lello, or Livraria Lello, awaits with its spiraling staircases and stained-glass skylight—a sanctuary of literary magic where the echoes of a famous young wizard linger amidst the shelves. But the enchantment doesn't end here; the nearby University of Porto, with its hallowed halls and rich academic heritage, stands as a beacon of knowledge and tradition, inviting you to explore the intellect that shapes the city's soul.

Architectural Wonders Next, marvel at the Churches of Carmo and Carmelitas, where azulejos tiles paint narratives of faith and the curious tale of Porto's narrowest house. Ascend the Clérigos Tower, a baroque marvel, and delve into the legacy of Nicolau Nasoni, whose visionary artistry gifted Porto with one of its most iconic silhouettes.

Panoramic Views and Hidden Histories The journey leads to the Vitória Viewpoint, where panoramic vistas unfold like a living canvas, telling untold stories of Porto's Jewish heritage, secret synagogues, and the birth of the world-renowned Port Wine. This vista is not merely a view; it's a window to the soul of Porto, revealing layers of history and tradition that have shaped this enchanting city.

Cultural Tapestry Wander down Flores Street, where the vibrancy of Porto's culture comes alive in the anecdotes and expressions shared by your guide—a mosaic of life in vivid colors. The São Bento Train Station, with its exquisite tile panels, unfolds Portugal's history in an artful narrative, capturing the essence of the nation's journey through time.

Cathedral of Porto and Ribeira District At the heart of Porto's UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cathedral of Porto stands as a monument to resilience and faith, echoing the tales of the Liberal Wars and the king whose heart remains intertwined with the city's destiny. Descend to the Ribeira district, where the ancient neighborhood of Barredo whispers secrets of the past, each cobblestone a testament to the lives and loves that have coursed through its veins.

The Essential Porto Free Tour is more than a walk through the city; it's a passage through time, a dance with history, and a song of culture and tradition. It's an experience designed not just to show you Porto but to immerse you in its essence, to feel its heartbeat and to understand its soul.

This tour beckons to those who seek not just to see but to experience, to not just learn but to connect. With every step, Porto reveals itself not just as a city but as a living, breathing entity, rich in history and brimming with stories waiting to be told. From the grand avenues to the hidden nooks, from the soaring towers to the tranquil viewpoints, Porto invites you to discover its secrets, to hear its tales, and to be moved by its beauty.

So, to the intrepid traveler, the curious explorer, and the lover of stories, the Essential Porto Free Tour awaits. It promises not just an exploration of Porto's landmarks but a journey into the heart of the city, where every corner has a story, every street has a melody, and every moment is an invitation to fall in love with Porto. Let this tour be your guide, your muse, and your doorway to the timeless charm of Porto, a city that captures the imagination and enchants the soul.

What will we visit on this tour?

Next to the Monument to Garrett right in front of Porto’s City Hall. Look for the dark blue umbrellas. This beautiful sculpture is really close to City Hall at the top of Aliados.

• 1 Outside visit Ayuntamiento de Oporto
• 2 Outside visit Libreria Lello
• 3 Outside visit Iglesia dos Carmelitas Show 5 more stops
• 4 Outside visit Torre dos Clérigos
• 5 Outside visit Miradouro da Vitória
• 6 Outside visit Rua das Flores
• 7 Free admission Estación de São Bento
• 8 Outside visit Catedral de Oporto

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price , instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

Tour opinions (1062)

Cristina fué genial!!!!!!!!! Todo muy ameno muy bien expresado y manteniendo al grupo ensimismado. Es una gran guru

Irene è stata un'ottima guida, molto preparata, un tour molto interessante. Un ottimo mix di storia, curiosità e consigli locali. Lo consiglio vivamente!

Informative and full of history about Porto. Would like to see more stops added which have lesser known facts and interest. Tour guide was professional and helpful.

La visita con la guida Irene mi è piaciuta tantissimo! E’ molto preparata ed è capacissima di intrattenere il gruppo con allegria fornendo informazioni storiche precise.

Who is this tour for?

What should you know, others tours from this guru, others cities to visit after porto.

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Historic Porto Tour

The colourful city of Porto settled beautifully on a steep banks of the river Douro, right at the Atlantic coast, enchants everyone with its marvellous views, pastel painted houses with terracotta roofs, facades covered with azulejos, unique character of its people, the taste of port wine and exceptional cuisine. All that topped with a young and bohemian spirit creates the most charming atmosphere that will make your stay here unforgettable! 

Porto’s life has always been linked to the sea. It were the Romans who called it Portus Cale (and that is where the name of the country, Portugal, originates), till the present day the locals call it Oporto, meaning “the port”. For centuries, it was known as a city of shipbuilders and a place from where many Portuguese sea expeditions would depart. It was from the port of Porto, his birthplace, that prince Henry the Navigator set out to conquer Northern Africa at the beginning of the 15th century, thus launching the Portuguese Age of Discoveries. Because of the high demand of meat for the sailors, all that remained for the people of Porto were leftovers. And so they started to be called “tripe eaters”. Although those days are long gone, tripe is to this day a traditional dish here. The city of Porto is inhabited by specific people – friendly but very straight. In Portugal, they even say that the people of Porto are a separate nation. For centuries, it was a working class that mostly prevailed here. The untamed city’s character pierces through its history – it was here that the liberal revolution against the monarchy started, and when the monarchy set out to punish it, its people stood bravely and resisted an 18-month siege. That is why Porto is often called an “unvanquished city”. The revolution that started here changed not only the city but the entire Portugal and eventually led to the overthrow of the monarchy at the beginning of the 20th century. That’s a piece of history you shouldn’t miss!   

Take a walk with us through the steep streets of Porto to learn about pivotal moments in both the city’s and the country’s history, and to see its most iconic sights. Starting from the Fonte dos Leões and the University we will show you many facades and interiors covered with azulejos, hand-painted tiles, including those in the incredible São Bento train station, where they cover entire walls and show scenes from Portugal’s history . We will lead the way to one of the most magical bookshops in the world – Livraria Lello, one that inspired JK Rowling to write her Harry Potter books. Walking down towards the banks of Douro river we will see the city’s landmarks, among them the Torre dos Clérigos and the Porto Cathedral. We will delight in the beautiful views from the Vitoria viewpoint, from where you will be able to see the city, the river and the bridges not only connecting its banks, but also (surprisingly) connecting Porto with France. We will introduce you to the many local customs and traditions, especially food and wine related. Our tour will give you a chance to soak in the vibe of Porto which, despite being 2 thousand years old, feels young and energetic, in many places covered with amazing street art and famous for its great night-life. Come and join us in the exploration of the fascinating city of Porto! 

During this 2,5 hour tour, you will see and experience:

• Clerigos Tower
• São Bento Station
• Cathedral of the Sé – the Porto Cathedral
• Ribeira Bridge Luis I
• Aliados Avenue
• Lello and Irmão Bookstore
• University of Porto
• Porto City Council
• Rua de las Flores – charming shopping street
• Mirante de la Vitoria – Vitoria viewpoint 
• Cordoaria Square
• Chain of Relationship
• … and much, much more

Entertaining, well-organized, heartful

Felipe not only knows a lot about Porto’s and general history, but also manages to get YOU interested about it. The tour is very extensive and pretty intense, yet suitable for a broad audience. In short: highly recommended

Very cool tour!

Very detailed and full of tips tour owned by Gianfranco. I discovered using walkative website and I really enjoyed a lot. Thanks man for this nice tour!

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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Porto-North-Portugal.com

The best independent guide to Porto

Home - Top 10 - Where to stay? - 2 days - 1 Week - Day trips - Airport to Porto - Beaches - 1-day tour - Braga - Aveiro

Porto in 1 day; a walking tour of Porto with map

Porto is a charismatic city that offers historic monuments, outstanding tourist activities and an endless abundance of Portuguese charm.

The historic centre is relatively compact, and the main sights can be squeezed into a single, if long, day.

Generally, we recommend two days to fully discover Porto, but this walking tour is ideal if you are constraint by time and only have one day of sightseeing.

This is the perfect route if you are visiting the city as a cruise ship passenger or have a long connection between flights; details of travel from the cruise terminal or airport are given at the end of this guide ( link here ). Related articles: Porto introduction – 2 days in Porto – Top 10 Porto

1 day tour of Porto - the map

This walking tour covers the main sights of Porto and is a fantastic introduction to the city. Below is an interactive map of the suggested 1-day walking route:

The route is 8.8km and takes around 6 hours of sightseeing, and will be longer when lunch and coffee breaks are included.

There are many steep hills in Porto, so expect a lot of uphill walking. The steepest hill of the route is just before the Santo Ildefonso church (21) , and depending on your energy levels, this may be a convenient location to end the walking tour.

Guide to the 1-day walking tour

This section provides details of the walking tour and included images of the main sights along the route.

The tour begins in the Praça da Liberdade (1) , the main plaza of Porto. This plaza is the connection between the modern city to the north and the medieval districts to the south.

At the head of the Praça da Liberdade is the magnificent Câmara Municipal (24) while surrounding the entire plaza is imposing 1920s granite architecture.

Insight: The McDonald's in the Praça da Liberdade is regarded as the most beautiful McDonald's in the world. It was originally the grand Cafe Imperial, and the conversion retained all of the art deco features, including stain glass mirrors and extravagant chandeliers.

The Câmara Municipal do Porto

To the west of the Praça da Liberdade is the Igreja dos Clérigos. This baroque church has a unique oval nave, designed by the celebrated Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, but most visitors are drawn by the adjacent Torre dos Clérigos (2) .

The tower at 75m is the highest structure in the historic centre of Porto, and if you climb the 240 steps, you will be rewarded with some of the finest views of Porto.

From its construction in 1763 until the late 20th century the Torre dos Clérigos was the tallest building in Portugal

Further along, is the tree-lined Jardim da Cordoaria park and the Antiga Cadeia da Relação (3) , Porto's original prison. Today the prison complex houses the informative Fotografia Museum.

Heading around the park is the imposing Tribunal da Relação do Porto and the Neo-classical wing of the Santo António Hospital (4) .

On the northern side of the Jardim da Cordoaria is the Igreja dos Carmelitas, the Igreja do Carmo (5) and the main campus of Porto University (6) . Being close to the university, this area is a hub for nightlife with many trendy bars and nightclubs.

The Igreja do Carmo is famed for the beautiful blue and white tile mural that covers the entire eastern wall and was created using traditional azulejo tile paintings.

Insight: An ancient law prevented two churches sharing the same wall, so separating the Carmelitas and Carmo churches is Portugal's narrowest house. This now has been turned into a museum and is part of the Igreja do Carmo.

The decorative painted tiles on the side of the Igreja do Carmo

Departing from the Praça de Parada Leitão is the number 22 tram, which provides a scenic loop of central Porto. The tram route takes 45min, costs €3 and is a relaxing method to see the city, so long as you can get a seat!

The next sight is the Livraria Lello bookshop (7) , where JK Rowling wrote the initial chapters of the Harry Potter series, and was the inspiration for the grand staircase in Hogwarts. The shop is always crowded and changes €6 to enter.

Livraria Lello Bookshop

Heading downhill leads to the São Bento train station (8) with its beautiful concourse decorated with some of the finest Azulejo tile paintings in Portugal. Insight: There are two styles of tile paints in the station, traditional blue and white painted before the 1910 revolution and colour tiles painted after.

Inside São Bento train station

Uphill from the station is the ancient Se Cathedral (9) with its stark Romanesque fortified appearance. The interior of the cathedral is very austere, but the gothic cloisters have more character and are worth a visit.

The plaza in front of the cathedral was the centre of medieval Porto, hosting a daily market and protected by the city walls. The only remaining defensive tower houses the tourism office, and at the centre of the plaza is a pillory, used to hang criminals.

The Se Cathedral was constructed as a statement of religious dominance

If you enjoy decorative churches, then do include a visit to the Igreja de Santa Clara, with its ornate carved altars and lavish use of gold leaf.

South from the Se Cathedral leads to the iconic Luís I Bridge (10) , a wonderous iron bridge with two levels spanning the Douro River. This route crosses the upper deck of the bridge and offers stunning views over the historic riverside districts of Porto.

Insight: Before the construction of the Luis I bridge the Douro River was crossed by the Ponte das Barcas, a bridge constructed from twenty-one old Rabelo boats lashed together. The bridge sunk during the invasion of Napoleon's army in 1809 as the city fled, causing the loss of 400 people. The columns which held the Ponte das Barcas can be still seen next to the Ponte Luis I.

The Luís I Bridge connects Porto on the north side of the Douro with Vila Nova de Gaia on the south side Note the Ponte das Barcas columns on the left of the bridge

For an even better view of the river head up to the viewing terrace within the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar (11) , this monastery complex is unique for its circular church.

Just below the monastery is the Jardim do Morro, a popular location to hang-out during the summer months.

Departing from the edge of the park is a cable car down to the waterfront of Vila Nova de Gaia, but as it's all downhill from the Jardim do Morro, it's just as easy to walk.

The waterfront of Vila Nova de Gaia with the Port cellars to the rear

Vila Nova de Gaia is the traditional home of Porto wine, and the drink is matured in the vast cellars that line the banks of the river.

Within Vila Nova de Gaia are all of the major Port producers, and they provide guided tours of their cellars along with Port tasting sessions. The best tours and tastings include; Ferreira, Sandeman, Cálem, Graham's and Churchill. Insight: There is always a great atmosphere along the riverside in Vila Nova de Gaia, and it is an enjoyable place to relax and socialise.

After a Port tasting session, you may just wish to embrace the unhurried culture of Portugal

While wandering Vila Nova de Gaia do visit the "Half-Rabbit" (13) , a distinctive piece of urban art constructed purely from discarded rubbish, which is close to the Igreja Santa Marinha church.

Both sides of the Half Rabbit are only seen if you look at the corner of the building

At the far end of the Vila Nova de Gaia is the Estaleiro do Rabelo (14) , a traditional shipyard which builds and repairs the Rabelo boats. These flat-bottomed boats were historically used for transporting barrels of crushed grapes from the upper reaches of the Douro to the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

After exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, cross the lower level of the Luís I Bridge, which leads into the Ribeira district.

The Ribeira district as seen from Vila Nova de Gaia

Historically the Ribeira were the docks of Porto and one of the poorest areas of the city, but today it is one of the most characterful districts.

Along the waterfront restaurants and bars are crowded with tourists, while standing above the shops are a colourful hotch-potch of ancient houses.

At the heart of the district is the charming Praça da Ribeira, and much like Vila Nova de Gaia waterfront, there is always a buzzing atmosphere.

The colourful houses of the Ribeira

The unassuming Casa do Infante (16) , was the birthplace for Henry the Navigator, the noble who instigated the 14th century "Age of Discovery", which ultimately led to the discovery of Brazil and the sea route to India. Inside the Casa do Infante is a museum detailing his life and the sea voyages.

Across the street is the departure location for the Linha 1 tram, which trundles down the Douro to the mouth of the mighty river and the charming Foz district. This is a pleasant area to explore if you have a second day in Porto.

The São Francisco monastery was the grandest religious building of Porto, until it was accidentally burned down during the Siege of Porto in 1832. All that remains today is the Igreja de São Francisco (17) .

The number 1 tram waiting in front of the Igreja de São Francisco

From the outside, the church appears as yet another sombre gothic building, but inside is a profusion of intricate wood carvings and excessively adorned altars.

Insight: Such was the extensive use of gold leaf, that it is estimated that the Igreja de São Francisco contains over 100kg of gold.

The Neoclassical Palácio da Bolsa (18) was the stock exchange of Porto and represented the financial importance of the city during the 19th century. This "palace" was constructed on the fire ravaged cloisters of the São Francisco monastery. Inside is the wonderous Arab Room, the grand Hall of Nations and an impressive central courtyard.

The Palácio da Bolsa

The Misericórdia (The Mercy) were a 17th-century charity in which Porto's nobles donated money to fund hospitals and care for the poor of the city. The Museu da Misericórdia do Porto (19) , exhibits portraits of the donors and provides entrance to the lavish Igreja da Misericórdia. Within the museum is the "Fons Vitae", Portugal's finest gothic painting.

The Rua das Flores (20) is one of Porto's best shopping streets and is filled with independent stores, quirky tourist stalls and family-run cafes, along with a host of street performers.

The pretty Igreja de Santo Ildefonso church (21) is adorned with over 11,000 azulejo tiles covering the entire exterior of the church. The church is worth visiting, except it is at the top of a very steep hill.

The Igreja de Santo Ildefonso is decorative and unique, but it's a demanding climb to see it!

The Majestic Café (22) is one of Porto's original Art Nouveau styled cafes. The café, with its original features and hectic atmosphere, is bursting with character, and a great location for a mid-afternoon coffee and delicious Portuguese pastry.

The Rua de Santa Catarina, on which the Majestic Café is situated, is at the heart of Porto's shopping district and is a pleasant area to browse shops.

The Art Nouveau styled Majestic Café, was inspired by Parisian cafés

The Bolhão market (23) is the traditional market of Porto, filled with local produce (flowers, vegetables and meats), handicrafts and gifts. If you are seeking to experience a slice of authentic Porto, a stroll around this bustling market is for you.

Insight: The market starts early in the day, and by mid-afternoon, many of the fresh produce have been sold. If you enjoy visiting markets, consider adding Bolhão market much earlier in the day.

The tour then leads back into the Praça da Liberdade and the Câmara Municipal do Porto (24) .

If you’re taking this tour from a cruise ship or while waiting for a flight

The walking tour starts from the Praça da Liberdade (1) .

If you are travelling from the airport, catch the metro from the airport to the Trindade metro station (zone 4 ticket - €2.25, 27min journey) and walk south along the Avenida dos Aliados. A second metro could be taken from Trindade station to Aliados, but the journey is only 500m, and the walk is downhill.

Cruise ships to Porto moor at the Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões (GPS: 41.17739, -8.69984) in the town of Matosinhos. The 500 bus route provides a direct and regular bus service between Matosinhos to the Praça da Liberdade in Porto.

The nearest bus stop to the cruise terminal is "Godinho" (GPS: 41.18161, -8.69215), and a single fare to Porto costs €1.80, with a 40 minutes journey time. This is a very scenic bus route as it follows the Douro River. Warning: Always allow sufficient time to travel back to the airport or cruise terminal.

Our most popular guides to Porto and northern Portugal

Home page and introduction to Porto

Top 10 Porto

What are the top 10 sights and activities in Porto?

Where to stay?

What is the best district in Porto to be based in for your holiday?

When to visit?

When best to visit Porto and weather guide

Cost of trip

How much would a trip to Porto cost?

1 week holiday

Discover the entire Porto region in 1 week

48 hours in Porto

Itinerary for two fully packed days in Porto

Walking tour

You have just 1 day to see Porto? Then follow our suggested tour

Porto's beaches

Porto is on a coastline of glorious beaches

Porto day trips

Porto's day trips; where to go? which order?

Port Cellars

Which Port cellar tour and tasting should you visit?

The Foz District

Pretty district situated at the mouth of the Douro River

Stunning scenery, charming villages and relaxing boat tours

A vibrant city, regarded as the religious centre of Portugal

Known as the birthplace of Portugal and steeped in history

Canals, colourful fishing boats and a rich history

Airport to Porto

How to travel from Porto airport to the city centre

Lively beach resort, offering the best beaches close to Porto

Ponte de Lima

Ancient crossing point of the Lima River

Viana do Castelo

A city that exemplifies all of the finest aspects of the Minho region

Douro by car

Leave the tourists behind and discover the true allure of the Douro

Porto's Trams

The charming trams of Porto that cross the city

Liberal students and ancient university traditions create a fascinating city

A complete list of all of our Porto and North Portugal guides

Getting Started

• Porto Home Page
• When to visit Porto?
• 1 Week Porto
• Porto in 3 Days
• Porto in 2 Days

Porto Beaches

• Porto Beach Guide
• Vila do Conde Intro
• Povoa de Varzim Intro
• Senhor da Pedra beach
• Aguda beach
• Espinho beach
• Introduction
• Day trip to Ponte de Lima
• Aveiro Introduction
• Porto to Aveiro

Other guides

• How long to stay in Porto?
• Porto Language
• Serra da Estrela by car
• Is it safe to visit Porto?
• Porto Airport
• Chaves Portugal

Viana Do Castelo

• Day trip to Viana
• Santuario de Santa Luzia
• Day trip to Valenca

Porto Guides

• Porto Day Trips
• Walking tour of Porto
• Airport to Porto city
• Porto's trams
• Torre dos Clérigos
• Linha 1 tram route
• Porto to Lisbon
• Porto to the Algarve
• Porto to Coimbra
• Lisbon to Porto Tour
• The Douro by car
• Linha do Douro train ride
• Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint

Porto or...

• Porto or Barcelona
• Porto or Copenhagen
• Porto or Florence
• Porto or Lisbon
• Porto or Madrid
• Porto or Milan
• Porto or Seville

Matosinhos intro Matosinhos beach

• Guimarães Introduction
• Day Trip to Guimarães
• Porto to Guimarães
• Guimarães or Braga?
• Braga Introduction
• Porto to Braga
• Day trip to Braga

Portugal Guides

Where to go in Portugal? Where to Live in Portugal Top 10 Portugal 1 week in Portugal Top 10 beaches

Central Portugal

• Sintra introduction
• Sights of Sintra
• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Parque da Pena
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
• Evora sights
• Evora day trip
• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
• Sesimbra sightseeing
• Sesimbra beaches
• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
• Obidos day trip
• Ericeira introduction
• Lisbon to Ericeira
• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
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• Peninsula de Troia
• Berlengas Islands

Lisbon Guides

• Lisbon introduction
• Lisbon top 10
• Secret Lisbon
• Lisbon beach guide
• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• 3 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 5 Days
• 1 Week Lisbon
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• Cais do Sodre
• Lisbon airport
• Lisbon Metro
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Elevador Santa Justa
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• Elevador da Bica
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• Elevador da Gloria
• Praça do Comercio
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Lisbon Viewpoints
• Miradouro da Graça
• Sao Pedro de alcantara
• Senhora do Monte
• Lisbon to Belem transport
• Costa da Caparica Portugal
• Lisbon at Christmas
• Santos Populares
• Lisbon for Families
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• Free Lisbon
• Is Lisbon Walkable
• Lisbon Budget
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• Lisbon to Porto
• Lisbon tram guide
• Lisbon Ferrys

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
• Albufeira activities
• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
• Albufeira boat trips
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Percurso dos Sete Vales hike
• Sights and activities
• Faro beaches
• Funchal introduction
• Lagos guide
• Lagos beaches
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
• Tavira guide
• Tavira sights
• Tavira Beaches
• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

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• Destinations

Free tours in Porto

• Tours in Porto

Explore the beauty of Porto: Free walking tours, sights and things to do

Porto is a beautiful city in northern Portugal, known for its picturesque streets, delicious food and, of course, its world-famous port wine. But there is much more to discover in Porto than just wine tasting. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or just looking for a unique experience, this city has something to offer everyone.

One of the best ways to explore the city is through free walking tours in Porto. These tours are provided by experienced local guides who will guide you to Porto's most popular attractions and share their knowledge of the city's culture, history and traditions. You can explore the historic Ribeira district, admire the iconic bridge of Dom Luis I and discover the hidden gems of the city's medieval quarters.

Porto has many other attractions, such as the stunning Clerigos Tower, the beautiful Lello Bookstore and the charming São Bento Station with its intricate tilework. And of course, no visit to Porto would be complete without tasting local delicacies like the famous Francesinha sandwich or the mouthwatering pastries known as "pastel de nata."

Porto is a wonderful place that offers something for everyone, from free walking tours to numerous attractions and activities. So why not pack your bags and discover the beauty of this city?

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Guide with us

Free tour porto, let yourself be seduced by the charm of porto.

Some of the points of interest of the Porto walking tour

• Allies Avenue
• Sao Bento Station
• Majestic Coffee
• Bolhao Market
• Galleries of Paris
• Carmo Churches
• Legacy of the Dictatorship
• Lello and Irmão Bookstore
• Clérigos Tower
• And much more…

What will you find on this free tour?