Unusual & fun things to do in Porto 🇵🇹
Porto, a city overflowing with history and culture, is waiting for you to explore its many wonders. Not just famous for its delicious port wine and jaw-dropping riverside views, there's so much more to discover! Thrift shopping experiences? Or perhaps enjoying a beautiful sunset along the Douro River? Porto has got you covered. Trust me, there's something for everyone here. In this blog post, I’m sharing some of my favourite things you can do this weekend in Porto!
🏛️ Visit Serralves Museum
The Serralves Museum in Portugal is undoubtedly one of my favourite cultural spots. This museum features a blend of permanent exhibitions and rotating displays, including the unforgettable works of Yayoi Kusama, which I was fortunate enough to witness. At Serralves, there’s an abundance of activities to engage both kids and adults, both inside the museum and in its expansive outdoor areas. I highly recommend dedicating a full day to truly immerse yourself in everything Serralves has to offer. One of my personal favourites is the tree-top walk—it’s a must-do! 🌳
🌅 Watch the sunset at Parque das Virtudes
Pack some wine and cheese and head over to Parque das Virtudes to enjoy a breathtaking sunset. This hidden gem in Porto offers free entry and is a fantastic spot not only for its views but also for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. From the park, you get a unique vantage point where you can gaze out over the Douro River and the picturesque Vila Nova de Gaia. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening. Explore the terraced gardens and find a cozy spot to settle down and enjoy some delicious snacks. Don’t miss this quintessential Porto experience—it’s truly a feast for the senses and a delightful escape within the city!
☕️ Try octopus hotdog at “A Certain Cafe”
Located in the Bonfim area of Porto, “A Certain Cafe” is a must-visit place for brunch (or any other social gathering). They are “a deconstructed and relaxed space where the community could gather.” There you will find a selection of natural wines, small bites to grab and my new obsession — the octopus hotdog. It is THE BEST octopus hotdog I’ve ever tried.
🌊 Enjoy a stroll by the Douro River
As the weather begins to warm up, it's the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Douro River, especially in the Ribeira district. The waterfront there is absolutely stunning, offering a beautiful pathway that is ideal for soaking in the scenic views. Along the walk, you'll be charmed by the numerous quaint, old houses that truly make Porto feel like Porto. Whether you're looking to clear your mind, get some gentle exercise, or simply enjoy the outdoors, the riverside walk in Ribeira is not to be missed. It's a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city, surrounded by the unique character that defines this beautiful place.
🪩 Get some records at “Fiasco” record bar
Fiasco was completely new to me until I stumbled upon it on TikTok, and I knew right away that I had to check it out! It’s a record store combined with a bar—or is it a bar with a record store? Either way, it’s a brilliant concept. Here you can pick up some cool vinyl records while sipping on delicious cocktails. They have a great selection, and the staff are super helpful. They shared some awesome insights about the record I was buying, and honestly, I could talk about music for hours!
🛍️ Go on a thrift adventure
Porto has some great vintage stores, and I love checking them out every time I'm in town. I always go on a little thrift shopping spree when I visit. The best part? I make it an adventure. I start with a list of cool things I’m looking for and then explore the city while I hunt for funky clothes. It’s not just about finding great deals—it's also a fun way to see different parts of Porto and help the environment by reusing and recycling. It turns shopping into a real adventure!
Some of my favourite thrift stores in Porto
🍸 Make your own gin
If you love crafting and have a taste for spirits, Scoundrels Distillery is the perfect spot to spend a day. In just three hours, you'll dive into the world of botanicals and the distilling process. The best part? You get to make your own gin and take it home—perfect for sharing with friends and family. I had a blast creating my own floral gin and learning more about flowers & herbs. So, if you're into spirits or mixology, this class is an absolute must-do!
Book here: https://scoundrelsdistilling.com/product/gin-school/
🥙 Visit Time Out Market
Porto recently opened its very own Time Out Market, similar to the ones in Lisbon and Montreal. There, you’ll find a great selection of some of the best restaurants Porto has to offer. Just a heads up, they don’t accept cash—only cards and MBWay. Besides the amazing food, the market also hosts a variety of events, which you can check out on their website. Time Out Market Porto is open every day from 10 am to midnight, so you can stop by almost any time to grab a bite or enjoy the lively atmosphere.
As you can see, Porto really has a lot to offer. Every time I visit, I discover something new and exciting to do. I hope you will too! Enjoy your stay in Porto and make the most of everything this amazing city has to offer.
