Join Me On A Rainy Day In Porto Blog
Porto greets me with a misty embrace, the kind that makes the cobblestones shiny and turns the azulejo tiles into shimmering mosaics. You duck under my rain jacket as we meander through the city, dodging puddles and grinning at the absurdity of it all. A rainy day in Porto isn’t a downer—it’s a vibe, a filter that makes everything feel a little more cinematic, a little more secret.
In summer, these streets would be buzzing with tourists, but today? They’re ours. The usual selfie-stick squads have retreated, leaving us to wander at our own pace, past shuttered kiosks and glistening tram tracks. Even the Douro seems quieter, mist rising like a forgotten spell.
But here’s the thing about Portugal—it may pour like the sky’s having a crisis, but it never lasts long. Give it twenty minutes, maybe a coffee break, and the downpour will mellow into a light drizzle, or better yet, fade into a moody grey sky that suits Porto perfectly. So, we stroll, unhurried, letting the city reveal itself in its rain-washed beauty. After all, what’s a little rain on a rainy day in Porto when you’ve got a city this magical and a café nearby serving hot pastéis de nata?
We explore cat cafes, popular markets, stop for coffee at historic cafe and get cultured up a museums.
In summer, these streets would be buzzing with tourists, but today? They’re ours. The usual selfie-stick squads have retreated, leaving us to wander at our own pace, past shuttered kiosks and glistening tram tracks. Even the Douro seems quieter, mist rising like a forgotten spell.
But here’s the thing about Portugal—it may pour like the sky’s having a crisis, but it never lasts long. Give it twenty minutes, maybe a coffee break, and the downpour will mellow into a light drizzle, or better yet, fade into a moody grey sky that suits Porto perfectly. So, we stroll, unhurried, letting the city reveal itself in its rain-washed beauty. After all, what’s a little rain on a rainy day in Porto when you’ve got a city this magical and a café nearby serving hot pastéis de nata?
We explore cat cafes, popular markets, stop for coffee at historic cafe and get cultured up a museums.
São Bento Railway Station
As you travel to São Bento Railway Station its like stepping into a postcard—except this time, the ink is smudged. The iconic blue-and-white azulejos that cover the walls seem to glow brighter in the diffused light, each tile telling a story of Portugal’s past, now interrupted by fleeting moments of wet umbrellas and soaked coats.
Ohana Market
As we step out the station we are immedittely greeted by a cute little pop up market called OHANA MARKET located in Cardosas Square. Here you can Discover porthuguese brands, Explore unique creations and experience the special Ohana atmosphere. You can usually find the market three weekends of the month at this spot.
For more information find them on Insta and facebook
https://www.instagram.com/ohanamarket.pt/
https://www.facebook.com/Ohanamarketpt
Watch A Rainy Day In Porto Fun!
Miradouro da Rua das Aldas
Up next on my rainy day in Porto adventure I wander up toward the Sé, where a panoramic view of Porto’s terracotta rooftops awaits. Rain or shine, this vantage point never disappoints and on a grey day the viewpoint is 100% only yours!
Dom Luís I Bridge
Standing on the Dom Luís I Bridge, Porto stretches before you in a breathtaking panorama. The Douro River glistens below, reflecting the colorful houses stacked along the hillside. Rain adds a moody charm, softening the skyline. From here, the city feels endless—a postcard-perfect view, no matter the weather.
WOW – World Of Wine
Wow you really have world of wine all to yourself on a rainy day in Porto!
On a rainy day in Porto, WOW (World of Wine) is the perfect retreat. Nestled in Vila Nova de Gaia, this cultural district offers a deep dive into Portugal’s rich wine heritage. You can wander through immersive museums, learning about cork, chocolate, and, of course, wine.
Rain tapping on the glass windows only adds to the cozy atmosphere as you can sip a velvety Port in one of the stylish wine bars. The complex has 7 museums, you can read them onscreen now. WOW Porto boasts a diverse culinary scene with 12 restaurants and bars, each offering unique dining experiences and a number of boutique stores. Me im off the cafe for a coffee and something sweet and tasty.
Wow has a great miradouro and the views over the Douro, misty and moody, create a cinematic backdrop. Whether indulging in tastings or browsing exhibits, WOW turns a grey day into a rich, flavorful experience.
https://www.wow.pt/
Centro Português de Fotografia
Next, I make my way back across the river to explore the Centro Português de Fotografia, Porto’s fascinating photography museum. Housed in a former 18th-century prison, this unique space blends history with art, offering an intriguing glimpse into both photography’s evolution and the building’s past. The best part? Entry is completely free, making it a perfect stop for a budget-friendly cultural experience. As I wander through the exhibitions, I admire vintage cameras, powerful photojournalism, and thought-provoking contemporary works. The rain outside only adds to the moody atmosphere, making this hidden gem an even more rewarding escape from the weather.
Entrance is FREE
The Centro Português de Fotografia can be found at
Largo Amor de Perdição, 4050-008 Porto
https://cpf.pt/
Bolhão Market
On my way to grab lunch, I take a leisurely stroll through the famous Bolhão Market, where the heart of Porto’s culinary culture beats loud and vibrant. Whether you’re here to shop for fresh produce, sample local delicacies, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Mercado do Bolhão is a feast for the senses. The scent of cured meats and freshly baked bread mingles with the lively chatter of vendors, while colorful stalls overflow with everything from gleaming fish to ripe, sun-kissed fruit. Even if you’re just passing through, this historic market offers an authentic slice of Porto’s daily life.
Entrance is FREE
The market can be found at R. Formosa 322, 4000-248 Porto
The lower floor you will find the market and the upper floor you can find restaurants and sometimes there are art exhibitions
https://mercadobolhao.pt/
O Porto dos Gatos
On a rainy day in Porto, O Porto dos Gatos is the perfect cozy retreat for lunch. Tucked away in the Bonfim district, this charming cat café offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy a delicious plant-based meal in the company of friendly feline residents. The sound of raindrops tapping against the windows only adds to the snug ambiance as I settle in the menu of the day, a 2 course meal for 12 euros. The café’s resident cats lounge lazily on cushions, occasionally padding over for attention. With a cup of hot tea in hand and purring companionship all around, it’s the ultimate comfort stop on a grey, drizzly afternoon and every penny you spend goes to the a good cause, helping Portos street cats eat well and find home.
A 100% vegetarian Cat Café located in the city of Porto. Our feline staff comes from the Associação Vida de Gato, and they are all waiting for new families!
Av. de Rodrigues de Freitas 93
https://www.instagram.com/oportodosgatoscatcafe/
https://www.facebook.com/OportoCatcafe/?locale=pt_PT
Palácio da Bolsa
After my cute lunch i head the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) offers the perfect escape into grandeur and history from the rain. This 19th-century neoclassical masterpiece, once the heart of Porto’s commercial trade, is a feast for the eyes. As I step inside, the rain-soaked streets fade away, replaced by lavish chandeliers, intricate woodwork, and gilded details.
The highlight? The breathtaking Arab Room, an opulent space inspired by Moorish architecture, where gold-leafed walls shimmer under soft lighting. With the rain tapping against the grand windows, the palace feels even more atmospheric—a regal hideaway from the grey skies outside.
Tours are with a guide only Languages include English, French, Spanish
Cost of entry 15 euros pp
https://palaciodabolsa.com/en/intro/
3D Art Fun Museum
Step into Porto’s Most Playful Museum – The 3D Fun Art Museum!
Rainy day in Porto? No problem! The 3D Fun Art Museum in Porto is the perfect place to unleash your inner child. Packed with mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits, this isn’t your typical museum—here, you become the art! One moment, you’re surfing a giant wave; the next, you’re escaping a T-Rex or balancing on a skyscraper.
With over 40 themed exhibits, each designed for maximum fun and Insta-worthy moments, this museum is all about creativity and laughter. Whether you’re dodging lava, diving into fantasy worlds, or posing in a giant wine glass, it’s impossible to leave without a smile (and a camera roll full of hilarious photos!).
This activity in Porto is perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for a lighthearted escape, the 3D Fun Art Museum turns a grey day into an unforgettable adventure!
Entrance is
Adults 13 euros
Kids 9 euros
Explore a world of illusion and 3D fun!
The museum can be found at
R. de Faria Guimarães 712, 4200-289 Porto
https://3dfunartporto.com/
Café Brasileira
My last stop today is Café Brasileira, a historic gem in Porto that’s perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. Nestled in the heart of the city, this café exudes old-world charm with its elegant decor and vintage feel. The rain outside gives the space an even cozier vibe, as I settle into a plush chair by the window. I sip a rich Portuguese coffee while watching the world pass by, the rain adding a soft murmur to the lively street. With its timeless atmosphere and perfect location, Café Brasileira offers a peaceful end to a rainy day in Porto.
What is your favourite thing to do on a rainy day in Porto?
