7 things to see, do & taste in Porto before your Camino begins

Portugal’s northern capital is a city of old-world charm and new-world energy, where cobbled lanes, azulejo-covered buildings and the hum of live music set the tone for unforgettable days. If you’re beginning your Portuguese Camino in Porto, I highly recommend arriving a couple of days early to soak up the atmosphere and explore what this vibrant riverside city has to offer.

Here are some things I suggest doing in Porto, based on my recent visit before setting off on the Camino. I loved every one of these experiences and would highly recommend them to anyone spending time in this beautiful city.

1. Wine and port tastings – an iconic porto experience

No visit to Porto would be complete without indulging in one of its most famous exports: Port wine. Across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, you’ll find a string of historic wine cellars offering tastings and tours. One standout experience for me was Cockburn’s Port Lodge, where I enjoyed a guided tasting and wandered among the largest oak vats in the Douro Valley – some still in use after more than a century.

Bookings are essential at Cockburn’s and most of the Port houses – this isn’t the kind of place you can just drop into without a reservation. Tastings at Cockburn’s start from €26 per person, which includes a guided tour of the lodge. I highly recommend doing the tour – it offers fascinating insight into the history of Port and the process behind it, giving the tasting so much more context and appreciation.

For something a little different, I stumbled upon Bacchus Vini, a tiny, independent wine store located on the Porto side of the Douro, not far from the bridge and facing out to the river. The owner was incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming, offering a personalised tasting that felt more like a chat with a friend. They also had local cured meat ready to carve upon request, regional olives, and other Portuguese snacks that paired beautifully with the wines. As we tasted, they shared some fantastic information about Portugal’s diverse wine regions – not just the Douro, but also lesser-known areas like Dão, Alentejo and Bairrada. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or completely new to Portuguese wines, you’ll find something to enjoy.

There are plenty of wine bars and cellars to explore – from the polished and professional to the quirky and artisanal – and part of the fun is finding one that speaks to you.

Port and tawny tastings at Cockburn’s Port Lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia.

2. Step inside Livraria Lello – one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops

If you’re a book lover (or just appreciate beautiful spaces), Livraria Lello is not to be missed. This iconic bookstore often tops lists of the most beautiful in the world – and for good reason. With its neo-Gothic façade, intricate wood carvings, stained glass ceiling and sweeping red staircase, it truly feels like stepping into a fairytale.

There’s a strong rumour that J.K. Rowling drew inspiration from the bookstore during her time living in Porto. While that’s never been confirmed, it certainly feels like the kind of place where magic begins.

A few tips from my visit:

• Entry costs around €10 per person and must be pre-booked online.
• Your ticket acts as a voucher toward a book purchase – a great excuse to pick up a meaningful souvenir.
• Go early to beat the crowds – there was already a line when I arrived first thing!

The magical interior of Livraria Lello Bookstore in Porto.

3. Admire the history at São Bento Train Station

Even if you’re not catching a train, São Bento Station is well worth a visit. This working railway station is one of the most beautiful in Europe thanks to its awe-inspiring azulejo tile work. Over 20,000 blue-and-white tiles depict scenes from Portugal’s history – battles, royal visits, rural life, and more.

The station was completed in the early 1900s on the site of a former Benedictine convent, and the blend of classical architecture with richly detailed tile panels makes it feel more like a museum than a transit hub.

I found myself standing there much longer than I expected, just taking it all in.

Porto’s São Bento Station, where more than 20,000 azulejos tiles create a breathtaking tribute to Portugal’s heritage.

4. Explore the Mercado do Bolhão

Porto’s iconic Mercado do Bolhão was another highlight for me. Recently restored, this two-level market still retains its old-world charm and local feel. I wandered among stalls piled high with fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, charcuterie, and local delicacies – a feast for the senses.

You can grab a glass of wine and wander around, or pick up some fresh seasonal fruit, seafood, a cheese or cured meat platter – there’s something for all tastes. I loved chatting with vendors, watching locals do their daily shop, and soaking up the hustle and bustle. Sitting on the steps in the sun to snack and take it all in was such a lovely moment – one of those simple experiences that stays with you.

Don’t forget to look up – the market’s ironwork and open-air balconies make it a beautiful space to explore.

Hand cutting cured meats at Mercado do Bolhão in Porto.

5. Sit by the Douro and watch the world go by

One of my favourite moments in Porto was sitting by the Douro River, gelato in hand, just watching the world go by. Whether you’re down along the Ribeira or across the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia, the riverfront is always buzzing with life.

You’ll see boats cruising past, families walking together, and talented street performers adding a soundtrack to the afternoon. From soulful singers to incredible instrumentalists, the creativity on display is something special.It’s a beautiful reminder to slow down – something that helped me mentally prepare for the Camino ahead.

If you have time, there are plenty of boat trip options available – from short sightseeing cruises to longer excursions up the Douro Valley.

6. Get your Camino credential stamped at Sé do Porto

If you’re starting your Camino from Porto, you can get your first pilgrim stamp at Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral). While it’s not essential, it’s a traditional starting point and a lovely way to mark the beginning of your journey.

The cathedral, which opens at 9am, is perched high on a hill and offers great views of the city and the river. I visited the day before my walk began to avoid the rush on my first morning. It gave me a sense of calm and connection to the journey ahead.

Collecting a Camino stamp not far from Porto – we found this one in the forest.

7. Wander freely – Porto is made for walking

One of the things I loved most about Porto was how walkable it is. Yes, the hills are real – but they only add to the experience (and are great Camino training!). I spent an afternoon wandering with no plan at all and discovered tucked-away cafés, leafy viewpoints, and beautiful buildings around every corner.

The city is compact, but packed with detail – tiled façades, old churches, buzzing cafés and unexpected art. Let yourself get a little lost. That’s often when the best moments happen.

Colourful streets and statues in Porto, blended with parks and nature.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re in Porto for a quick stop or a longer stay, this city has a way of capturing your heart. From its soulful music to the richness of its food and wine, there’s an energy here that’s hard to put into words – and the perfect place to begin a journey on foot.

Taking a couple of days to settle in helped me start my Camino feeling grounded, inspired and connected – not just to the path ahead, but to the beauty of where it all begins.

At the steps of Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral), a Romanesque masterpiece and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

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