Porto Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go
Porto is one of Europe’s most charming small cities, famous for its port wine, steep cobblestone streets, and iconic bridges spanning the Douro River. Whether you're here for the wine, the views, or the food, here's how to make the most of your time in Portugal’s second city. (But to be clear, we highly recommend going for the wine!)
Where to Stay: The Yeatman
If you’re going to Porto, The Yeatman is the place to stay. Perched in Vila Nova de Gaia just across the river from the historic center, this luxury wine hotel has panoramic views of the city and Douro River from nearly every room. The five star hotel is serene and spacious, with beautifully landscaped grounds, a stunning outdoor infinity pool, and a top-notch spa with open relaxation surfaces.
Everything is themed on wine here. The pool looks like a decanter, rooms are named after wines, and you even get a glass of port when you check in. They’re fairly subtle about it, but this is owned by the same company that owns Taylor’s (known as Taylor Fladgate in the US) so wine is in their DNA.
Most importantly, it's also walking distance from many of the major port houses. If you're planning to indulge in a few tastings, there's nothing better than having a world-class hotel just a short stroll away.
The view from our room’s balcony
Where to Eat
🍷 The Gastronomic Restaurant (2 Michelin Stars, located in the Yeatman hotel)
This is Porto’s most prestigious dining experience, and it delivers. With a tasting menu that highlights Portuguese ingredients through a modern, elevated lens, every course is a work of art. This was a beautifully done experience and we thoroughly enjoyed every bite. Plus, the view overlooking the river was gorgeous.
🎨 Eskalduna Studio (1 Michelin Star)
A more intimate and creative spot, Eskalduna Studio brings bold flavors and inventive plating to the Porto dining scene. It's chef-driven, beautifully paced, and a nice change of pace from traditional Portuguese fare.
🌿 The Orangerie at The Yeatman (Located in the Yeatman hotel)
For something a little more relaxed (but still delicious), The Orangerie is a great option within the hotel. It’s an ideal spot for lunch with a view or a more casual dinner with excellent service. And again, you get to enjoy the stunning river and city views.
What to Do
Honestly, there’s really only one thing you have to do and that’s…
🥂 Port Tastings
No visit to Porto is complete without diving into the world of port wine. While there are dozens of port houses to choose from, here are our top picks:
Kopke: The oldest port house in Porto, known for its history and tawny ports.
Graham’s: A beautifully restored lodge with great tastings and a rich heritage. We loved their option of a food and port tasting that paired three ports with a cheese, chocolate, and egg tart.
Taylor’s: A must-do for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge. For an unforgettable experience, book the Masterclass experience. This gives you a private guide and private tasting in their oppulent board room. This experience was curated, educational, and featured quality you won’t find anywhere else. If you only do one tasting, this is the one to do.
Each port house offers a slightly different vibe, so it’s worth visiting more than one. Just be sure to pace yourself!
What to Pack
Check out our Summer Eurotrip Capsule Wardrobe for exactly what we wore in Porto and beyond. In short: think lightweight, breathable fabrics and shoes that are stylish but made for walking (see next section).
What to Know
The Hills Are No Joke: Porto is built on steep terrain, and while exploring on foot sounds romantic, it quickly becomes a workout, especially in the summer heat or after a tasting (or two).
Uber is Your Friend: Fortunately, rideshare is easy and reliable. Don’t be afraid to Uber even short distances. It’s worth it to avoid sweating through your outfit or rolling an ankle on the cobblestones.
Some Areas Feel Worn: Porto has plenty of charm, but also some grit. We recommend sticking to well-trafficked areas, particularly if you’re exploring in the evening in the main city.
Timing is Everything: Many of the top restaurants and port tastings require reservations well in advance. Don’t expect to walk in. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a foodie, a wine lover, or just looking for a beautiful European getaway, Porto delivers. Let us know if you go, and definitely tag us if you make it to Taylor’s Masterclass!
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