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 sights.
For each Porto attraction, we include information about the sight, our insider tips and a location link. At the end of the article, you’ll find our Porto Map for an overview of the entire route.
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About Our Free Walking Tour of Porto
Our Self-Guided Porto Free Walking Tour is perfect for those who prefer to discover at their own pace. There are 26 sights highlighted and an additional 20+ attractions noted along the way.
The route measures a little over 5 miles and could take as little as 3 hours. How long your Porto City Tour lasts depends on your pace and if you decide to enter any of the sights.
Those who would prefer a more leisurely stroll can divide our walk into 2 or 3 separate tours. Below, we note the ideal spots to break up the route on your Porto Itinerary.
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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!
Durable Shoes
Not only is Porto a hilly city, but many of the streets are cobblestone and some sidewalks have uneven pavement. Make sure you have comfortable travel shoes.
I wear these lightweight trainers by New Balance – Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.
Travel Camera
Rather than relying on your phone, we recommend upgrading to an actual camera for high quality photos. We carry a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.
Weather Gear & Day Pack
The weather in Porto can change quickly and it’s actually one of the rainiest cities in Europe. We recommend bringing an umbrella or packable raincoat.
In the summertime, a travel hat can provide protection and it’s always a good idea to apply some sunscreen! As you explore Porto, you’ll also want a great day bag for all your essential travel items.
Connectivity
It is necessary to have a connection for navigation. Adjust your cellular plan, but an eSim (if your phone’s unlocked) or use a GlocalMe Mobile Hotspot.
Porto Walking Tour Itinerary
Alright, lace up your shoes, because it’s time to start your DIY Free Porto Walking Tour!
#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, it is 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.
Called ‘The Liberator’ and ‘The Soldier King’, he 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 his heart (literally), which today is housed in the Lapa Church.
Now stroll north along Avenida do Aliados – and perhaps pop into the Imperial McDonald’s, which is often touted as the most beautiful Mickey D’s in the world.
Directions: Walk to the north end of the square.
#2 Porto Sign and Camara Municipal
MAP. Featuring a 230-foot-tall tower and carillon clock, the Porto City Hall is a must-see landmark.
Construction of the building began in 1920, but it wasn’t completed until 1957. You can go inside to see the lavishly decorated lobby and get an elevated view of Liberty Square.
Sitting in front of City Hall is a large, blue Porto sign. People often climb on it to get their photo taken. 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. Here you will find a pleasant square and the…
#3 Igreja da Santissima Trindade
MAP. Built in the 19th century, the Holy Trinity Church features a neoclassical façade and rising bell tower. The interior is beautifully decorated with marble and gilded woodwork.
Directions: Walking east on Rua de Fernandes Tomas you pass A Favorita do Bolhao at #783. This traditional grocery store has been open for over 80 years. Step inside, take a look and then proceed to…
#4 Mercado do Bolhao
MAP. Established in 1914 and recently reopened after a long renovation, the Bolhao Market is a bustling space where all the best tours in Porto make a stop!
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 we like to just sit on the stairs on the north end of the hall, their are several sit-down restaurants on the top floor.
Directions: Exit on the north side from the upper floor and walk east to…
#5 Capela das Almas (or Capela de Santa Catarina)
MAP. One of the most beautiful churches in Portugal, this gem dates to the early 18th century. In 1929, it was completely covered in the characteristic blue and white painted tiles, called azulejos.
Although small, you should step inside to see the interior as well. It’s one of the best free things to do in Porto!
Directions: Walk south on Rua de Santa Catarina, the famous pedestrian-only Porto shopping street.
#6 Rua de Santa Catarina (Porto Shopping Street)
MAP. This nearly 5000-foot-long thoroughfare is lined with name-brand stores, specialty shops, restaurants and cafes. The area is one of the top places to go in Porto 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 feet to the west and step back in time at another traditional shop, A Perola do Bolhao. Here they sell sweet treats, cured meats, wine and deli items.
Directions: Continue walking south on Rua de Santa Catarina to…
#7 Majestic Café
MAP. The glamorous Majestic Café 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 abandoned. Following a full renovation, the cafe has been restored to its former glory.
Tuxedoed waiters greet patrons at the door, the lavish interior is truly a sight to behold and the French toast gets rave reviews!
Directions: Continue south to Rua de Passos Manuel and turn left. Walk east past the art deco Coliseu Porto Ageas theater and through Praca dos Poveiros square to the quaint park on the southeast corner.
#8 Jardim Marques de Oliveira Porto
MAP. This is Porto’s oldest park and opened in 1834. The lovely space features an old gazebo, fountains, statues, benches and bright flowers.
An prime place to rest weary feet, the park is also the gathering spot for older gentlemen who come to play cards.
Several of our favorite restaurants are located in the area – like Casa Guedes, Venham Mais 5 and Cafe Santiago. If you’ve managed to hold out this long, we recommend eating at one of these.
Directions: Now walk west on Rua de Santo Ildefonso to…
#9 Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and Praca da Batalha
MAP. The 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 facade was covered in 11,000 traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles. They were painted by artist Jorge Colaco, who is responsible for many of the murals you may notice while in Porto.
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.
Praca da Batalha – or Batalha Square – expands around the corner. A statue of King Pedro V, which was dedicated in 1866, stands at the center.
The 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).
Directions: Now 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…
#10 Sao Bento Train Station
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 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.
Directions: Exit the station and turn right. Walk north across the street to the…
#11 Igreja de Santo Antonio dos Congregados
MAP. The Church of St. Anthony has a history that stretches to the late 17th century. Dedicated to the patron saint of Lisbon, the exterior tiles portray the story of his life.
The church is free to visit – and many of Porto’s faithful residents are often found inside praying.
Directions: Walk west (passing where this tour began) and start the uphill climb. On your left 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 up and find the entrance to…
#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 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.
Directions: Walk north across the Praca de Lisboa. Go through the shops or on the grassy park on top of them to…
#13 Livraria Lello (The Famous Porto Bookstore)
MAP. Opened in 1906, Lello ranks as one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal. The incredibly ornate bookshop was an instant hit with intellectuals and quickly became a part of the cultural life in Porto.
More recently, it is rumored to be the inspiration for some of the scenes in JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series. There are unconfirmed reports that she even wrote some of the book here.
Due to it’s insane popularity, tickets are now required to enter and should be booked in advance.
Directions: Walk northwest on Rua das Carmelitas toward the 19th century Fonte dos Leoes (Lions Fountain) that fronts the stoic University of Porto building. Continue northwest across the square and tram tracks to the famous tiled ‘double’ churches.
#14 Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas
MAP. The Carmo Church and Carmelitas Church are both a stunning and peculiar sight in Porto. The two extravagant places of worship stand side-by-side, separated only by a narrow house.
Carmelitas, which is on the left, was built in the 17th century as part of a convent. It features a bell tower, an intricately decorated interior and is free to visit.
The Carmo, 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 is lavishly decorated with gilded woodwork. Entry does require a ticket – which also allows you 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.
#15 Praca de Carlos Alberto
MAP. Named after an exiled king who lived in a palace on this site in the 1800s, Carlos Alberto Square is small, but beautiful. If it’s a Saturday, the Mercado Porto Belo takes place here form 10am to 7pm.
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.
Directions: Retrace your steps and continue 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…
#16 Miradouro da Vitoria
MAP. Offering some of the best views of Porto, this small scenic spot 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. It’s a fantastic perch 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…
#17 Rua das Flores
MAP. Another one of the pretty Porto walking streets, this pedestrian lane is another must see on our walk.
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 the street 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…
#18 Mercado Ferreira Borges
MAP. Dating to 1885, the 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. In fact, 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 where you can grab a beverage and enjoy it al fresco with a beautiful view! (Plus, there are free public toilets inside.)
Directions: 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 is the…
#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…
#20 Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco
MAP. A stunning Gothic structure, 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 was used!
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 the…
#21 Ribeira District
MAP. One of the oldest neighborhoods in Porto and a UNESCO site, riverside Ribeira 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 square opens to the Douro River.
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 Ribeira – or Quay – is a buzzing pedestrian zone lined with cafes, restaurants and shops. Across the Douro River you’ll have a clear view of Gaia and it’s numerous Porto Wine Cellars. Don’t worry, we visit these later!
Many of the popular Rabelo boat rides – 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!
Directions: Continue east and pass under the bridge. Either take the Funicular dos Guindais up to Batalha Square (ticket required) or ascend the stairs (just past the station).
Now walk west along the south side of Rua de Saraiva de Carvalho to a nearly hidden church.
#22 Igreja de Santa Clara
MAP. Built in the early 1400s, the St. Clara Church has a modest exterior, but a beyond dazzling interior!
Originally constructed as part of a convent, it was modified throughout the years and now features an exquisite glittering gold interior.
A ticket is required to enter – and includes visiting the main church, plus the upper room. Directions: Continue walking west to the…
#23 Se do Porto Cathedral
MAP. The Porto Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady – marks the historical center of the city.
It took more than 600 years – from the 1100s to the 1700s – to complete. Over that 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, but the ticket allows you to climb to the top of the tower a wonderful vista.
Fronting the church is a large square which also offers nice views for free. At the center of the square is a decorated pillar, which once served as a place for hangings.
Directions: Exit to the north, 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
MAP. Designed in the late 1800s by Théophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, the double-decker Ponte Luis I is the most beautiful bridge in the city.
Originally, both levels were utilized for vehicles. However, 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.
You can get a peek at another famous Porto iron bridge, Dona Maria Pia, that straddles the Douro just upstream. The twin spans are named after Portugal King Luis I and his wife, Maria Pia of Savoy.
Directions: Cross over taking in the views of the river from both sides – just watch for trams! Once across, walk 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…
#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 that make it worth trekking up the hill!
Directions: Take the ramp back down and cross through Jardim do Morro (which also has nice views). On the far side, find the staircase that leads down to Calcada da Serra.
Turn right and start the downhill trek (including the hairpin left just after passing under the bridge) to the Gaia riverside. Alternatively, buy a ticket and take the Teleferico Gaia Cable Car!
#26 Vila Nova de Gaia
MAP. 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 rabelo boats to be processed and stored in Gaia warehouses. When the wine was ready, it was then shipped all around the world.
A wide pedestrian walkway parallels the river – with wine tasting rooms and restaurants lining the opposite side.
You 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 and the Mercado Beira Rio, which features an array of cuisine from top area restaurants.
You can continue touring on a Gaia cellar walk (use these directions) and seek out some of the interesting street art down the narrow lanes.
End your day of Porto sightseeing with a combined evening port wine tasting and Fado at the Calem cellars (book your spot in advance).
That ends our Self-Guided Free Porto Walking Tour! Below is our Porto Map of Sights, as well as suggestions for other interesting tours.
Shorter Porto Walking Tours
To split our Self Guided Porto Free Walk into two tours, we recommend stops 1-21 on Day 1, then exploring sights 22-26 on Day 2.
For even shorter sections, our Walking Tour of Porto can be divided into three separate outings. First see sights 1-10, then explore stops 11-21. 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.
Porto Walking Tour Map and Directions
If you wish to divide up the route or want step-by-step directions, use these maps for navigation.
- Tour 1 – Sights 1-10
- Tour 2 – Stops 11-21
- Tour 3 – Sights 22-26
More Tours in Porto, Portugal
While we believe our walk outlines the best Porto free tour to begin your visit, there are many additional options that you can add on afterwards!
Wine Tour in Porto
Wine is part of the culture in Porto – and it’s not just about port! On this guided tour you will get to taste 5 wines and learn about the history of wine making in the region.
Porto Food Tour
We love the food in Portugal! You can use our Porto Food Guide to create your own foodie tour. For those who would rather a guide lead the way, join this highly-rated group Food Tour in Porto.
Private Porto Tour
Travelers who prefer a private experience can also hire a local guide. On this popular half day Porto tour, guests get a personalized introduction and local knowledge.
Porto Hop On Hop Off Bus & Combo Ticket
To avoid walking the hills and battling the crowds, take the HO-HO Bus instead! The Porto Sightseeing Bus has three routes that make stops at major attractions and includes commentary in 16 different languages.
Experience top Porto attractions with a combo ticket that includes entry to numerous museums, a river cruise, a Port Cellar Tour and much more!
Bike Tour of Porto
Rather than walking in Porto, follow a guide on two wheels on a 3 hour guided tour across town. Get the details!
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 Portugal trip.
We share more honest advice in our 14 Day Portugal Itinerary that includes the Azores! For those visiting Porto from abroad, read our tips for Planning a European Vacation and check out these free guides!
- Day Trips from Porto to Braga and Aveiro
- 10 Day Portugal Itinerary (including Madeira Island)
- Lisbon 3 Day Itinerary (and important Travel Tips)
- Best Lisbon Viewpoints (and Beautiful Churches)
- Free Things To Do in Lisbon
- How To Plan a DIY Sintra Day Trip
Stay Organized
As you research and make reservations, you need to stay on top of the details. With our Printable Travel Planner you can be sure 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 additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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