The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools In Porto
Porto, a city known for its amazing beaches, is also home to some of the most beautiful outdoor pools in Portugal. Porto’s coastline can sometimes be wild and unpredictable, with rough seas and strong winds. Even on a hot day, the thought of sand whipping into your face and red flags signaling dangerous swimming conditions can make the beach less inviting.
However, you can still escape the heat and enjoy a refreshing swim at one of the local pools, offering a perfect alternative to the blustery beach.
Whether you’re a local seeking a refreshing escape or a traveler looking to unwind under the sun, Porto’s outdoor pools offer the perfect blend of relaxation and scenic views. In this blog, we’ll dive into the best outdoor pools the city has to offer. Discover the top places to cool off, get away from the wild sea and enjoy Porto’s vibrant atmosphere. Lets dive into The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto.
Quinta Da Conceicao – Outdoor Swimming Pool
Nestled within the lush greenery close to Matosinhos, just a short drive from Porto, the outdoor swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição is a hidden gem that combines nature and architecture in perfect harmony. Designed by the renowned Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, this pool is an example of modernist design seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings. The pool’s minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and simple structures, contrasts beautifully with the park’s mature trees and landscaped gardens.
The tranquil atmosphere of Quinta da Conceição makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim or a day of leisure. Despite its serene setting, the pool is equipped with all the necessary amenities, including changing rooms, sunbeds and a snack bar. Outsisde the pool is surrounded by grassy areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic, while the shaded pathways and nearby historical features of the park offer opportunities for exploration.
The outdoor swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição is not just a place to cool off on a hot day but a destination where architecture and nature converge, offering a unique experience that reflects the essence of Portuguese design and culture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this pool is a must-visit when in the Porto area.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 3.50 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 2.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
The tranquil atmosphere of Quinta da Conceição makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim or a day of leisure. Despite its serene setting, the pool is equipped with all the necessary amenities, including changing rooms, sunbeds and a snack bar. Outsisde the pool is surrounded by grassy areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic, while the shaded pathways and nearby historical features of the park offer opportunities for exploration.
The outdoor swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição is not just a place to cool off on a hot day but a destination where architecture and nature converge, offering a unique experience that reflects the essence of Portuguese design and culture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this pool is a must-visit when in the Porto area.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 3.50 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 2.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
Piscina das Marés – Outdoor Sea Swimming Pool
Piscina das Marés, located in the coastal town of Leça da Palmeira near Porto, is a masterpiece of modern architecture and one of the most iconic outdoor swimming pools in Portugal. This is the most unique of the best outdoor swimming pools in Porto. Designed by the acclaimed Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira in the 1960s, this pool complex is celebrated for its seamless integration with the natural landscape. The pools are carved directly into the rocky shoreline, creating a unique interaction between the man-made and the natural, with the Atlantic Ocean serving as a dramatic backdrop.
The complex consists of two saltwater pools, one large and one smaller, that fill with ocean water during high tide. The pools are surrounded by rugged rocks, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature. Siza’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with minimalistic concrete structures that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The use of natural materials and the thoughtful placement of the pools within the landscape make Piscina das Marés a striking example of organic architecture.
Beyond its architectural significance, Piscina das Marés is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pool offers a refreshing swim with stunning ocean views, while the surrounding sunbathing areas provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. The site also includes essential amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a lover of the ocean, or simply looking for a unique swimming experience, Piscina das Marés offers an unforgettable blend of design and nature.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 5.50 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 10 euros
Child All day – 6 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 6 euros
Child Half day – 4 euros
The complex consists of two saltwater pools, one large and one smaller, that fill with ocean water during high tide. The pools are surrounded by rugged rocks, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature. Siza’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with minimalistic concrete structures that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The use of natural materials and the thoughtful placement of the pools within the landscape make Piscina das Marés a striking example of organic architecture.
Beyond its architectural significance, Piscina das Marés is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pool offers a refreshing swim with stunning ocean views, while the surrounding sunbathing areas provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. The site also includes essential amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a lover of the ocean, or simply looking for a unique swimming experience, Piscina das Marés offers an unforgettable blend of design and nature.
Costs
Monday to Friday
Adult All day – 8 euros
Child All day – 5.50 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 5 euros
Child Half day – 3.50 euros
Weekends / National Holidays
Adult All day – 10 euros
Child All day – 6 euros
Half Day – From/ To 2pm
Adult Half day – 6 euros
Child Half day – 4 euros
Watch The Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto
Solário Atlântico – Outdoor Salt Water Swimming Pool
Piscina Solário Atlântico, located in the coastal town of Espinho just south of Porto, is a popular outdoor swimming destination that combines the charm of seaside relaxation with modern amenities. The Piscina Solário Atlântico was built in 1942 by architects Eduardo Martins and Manuel Passos, although it only became a facility of the Espinho City Council in 1960.
Since then, the Piscina Solário Atlântico has undergone significant changes. The most recent renovation began in December 1997, aiming to reduce the depth of the main pool for ecological and energy reasons, bringing it down to 2.5 meters from the original 5 meters. The diving platform, positioned 2.5 meters above the water level, was deactivated for safety reasons but remains as an architectural symbol of this pool.
One of the key attractions of Piscina Solário Atlântico is its spacious sunbathing areas, where visitors can lounge and soak up the sun with the sound of the waves in the background. The pool itself is filled with seawater, providing the refreshing sensation of an ocean swim without the worry of strong currents or tides. The design of the facility is simple yet effective, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
This spot is especially popular with families, as it offers a safe place for children to swim and play, along with convenient amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café for snacks and refreshments. The pool’s location in Espinho also makes it easily accessible by train from Porto.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the water or a fun outing with family and friends, Piscina Solário Atlântico in Espinho offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and relaxation, is this the best on our list of The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto?
Costs
Adult All day – 5.50 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
Schedule
16 June to 18 September from 09 00 to 19 00
Since then, the Piscina Solário Atlântico has undergone significant changes. The most recent renovation began in December 1997, aiming to reduce the depth of the main pool for ecological and energy reasons, bringing it down to 2.5 meters from the original 5 meters. The diving platform, positioned 2.5 meters above the water level, was deactivated for safety reasons but remains as an architectural symbol of this pool.
One of the key attractions of Piscina Solário Atlântico is its spacious sunbathing areas, where visitors can lounge and soak up the sun with the sound of the waves in the background. The pool itself is filled with seawater, providing the refreshing sensation of an ocean swim without the worry of strong currents or tides. The design of the facility is simple yet effective, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
This spot is especially popular with families, as it offers a safe place for children to swim and play, along with convenient amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café for snacks and refreshments. The pool’s location in Espinho also makes it easily accessible by train from Porto.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the water or a fun outing with family and friends, Piscina Solário Atlântico in Espinho offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and relaxation, is this the best on our list of The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto?
Costs
Adult All day – 5.50 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day –
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
Schedule
16 June to 18 September from 09 00 to 19 00
Granja – Outdoor Salt Water Swimming Pool
Piscina Municipal da Granja, located in the picturesque coastal area of Granja, just south of Porto, is a cherished outdoor swimming facility. It combines modern amenities with a serene seaside atmosphere. Nestled along the scenic coast, this pool offers locals and visitors a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with the added charm of the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.
The pool, which is filled with seawater, provides a unique swimming experience that captures the essence of ocean bathing without the challenges posed by strong tides and waves. The design of Piscina Municipal da Granja is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring ample sunbathing areas where guests can relax and enjoy the coastal views. The pool’s location allows for easy access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for a day of leisure by the sea and is one of the Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto.
In addition to the main swimming area, the facility includes a smaller, shallow pool that is perfect for children and families. The complex is well-equipped with amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit for all.
Piscina Municipal da Granja is particularly popular during the summer months when locals and tourists flock to the coast to take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful surroundings. Its combination of natural beauty, modern facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water in the Porto region.
Costs
Full Day
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day – from 3pm
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
End of Day – from 5pm
All – 2 euros
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
The pool, which is filled with seawater, provides a unique swimming experience that captures the essence of ocean bathing without the challenges posed by strong tides and waves. The design of Piscina Municipal da Granja is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring ample sunbathing areas where guests can relax and enjoy the coastal views. The pool’s location allows for easy access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for a day of leisure by the sea and is one of the Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto.
In addition to the main swimming area, the facility includes a smaller, shallow pool that is perfect for children and families. The complex is well-equipped with amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit for all.
Piscina Municipal da Granja is particularly popular during the summer months when locals and tourists flock to the coast to take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful surroundings. Its combination of natural beauty, modern facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water in the Porto region.
Costs
Full Day
Adult All day – 6 euros
Child All day – 4 euros
Half Day – from 3pm
Adult Half day – 4 euros
Child Half day – 3 euros
End of Day – from 5pm
All – 2 euros
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
Piscina Praia de Canide Sul
Since making its splashy debut in 2022, the saltwater tank has become the hottest new attraction on the beach. Despite being refreshingly cooler than the sea! Beachgoers are flocking in droves, eager to dip their toes into this unique watery wonder.
This beachside gem, with its maximum depth of just one meter, is cleverly nestled in the sand and warmed by the sun’s rays through solar panels. Families love the perfectly tempered water, hovering between a blissful 28 and 29 degrees Celsius. If the tank continues to keep its cool in 2025, it’ll comfortably fit up to 50 people. But don’t dawdle, each guest gets a 30-minute splash session to make the most of this sandy oasis!
The pool is open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak times because everyone wants a piece of this sun-soaked paradise! This eco-friendly pool is a real gem, using sea water warmed by solar panels (talk about green energy!). The local council, led by Eduardo Vítor Rodrigues, proudly announced that the pool, a €96,468 investment, is under constant watch to ensure its sustainability.
Stepping into this pool feels like a seamless blend with the sea. The entry starts with a gentle slope on a nearly flat surface. Gradually deepening to 50 centimeters midway, and reaching a maximum depth of one meter at the far end. Plus, you can lay out your towel and bask in the sun around the pool’s edge.
The concept for this beach oasis was born out of a desire to address some of the challenges typical beaches face. Miguel Lemos Rodrigues, president of the Águas de Gaia board, explained that while the region boasts some of the best beaches in the country, they had two main issues: cold water and the relentless northern winds.
Costs
Full Day
Free but only allowed to stay for 30 minutes
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
Thanks for reading The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto where is your favourite pool around Porto?
This beachside gem, with its maximum depth of just one meter, is cleverly nestled in the sand and warmed by the sun’s rays through solar panels. Families love the perfectly tempered water, hovering between a blissful 28 and 29 degrees Celsius. If the tank continues to keep its cool in 2025, it’ll comfortably fit up to 50 people. But don’t dawdle, each guest gets a 30-minute splash session to make the most of this sandy oasis!
The pool is open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, but be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak times because everyone wants a piece of this sun-soaked paradise! This eco-friendly pool is a real gem, using sea water warmed by solar panels (talk about green energy!). The local council, led by Eduardo Vítor Rodrigues, proudly announced that the pool, a €96,468 investment, is under constant watch to ensure its sustainability.
Stepping into this pool feels like a seamless blend with the sea. The entry starts with a gentle slope on a nearly flat surface. Gradually deepening to 50 centimeters midway, and reaching a maximum depth of one meter at the far end. Plus, you can lay out your towel and bask in the sun around the pool’s edge.
The concept for this beach oasis was born out of a desire to address some of the challenges typical beaches face. Miguel Lemos Rodrigues, president of the Águas de Gaia board, explained that while the region boasts some of the best beaches in the country, they had two main issues: cold water and the relentless northern winds.
Costs
Full Day
Free but only allowed to stay for 30 minutes
Schedule
Monday to Sunday from 9a.m. to 7:30p.m.
Thanks for reading The 5 Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto where is your favourite pool around Porto?
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How To Get To Porto
By Air✈️
* Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) is the main airport in Porto.
* Direct flights from major cities in Europe and international flights.
* Take the metro (Line E), a bus, or a Uber from the airport to the city center, the cost is about 15 euros.
By Train 🚆
* From Lisbon, Algarve, Northern Portugal: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train.
* From Spain: The Celta train connects Vigo (Spain) to Porto in about 2 hours.
By Bus 🚌
* There are many bus companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos that offer routes to Porto from various European cities.
* Buses from Lisbon take about 3.5-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
* From Lisbon, take the A1 motorway (the journey takes about 3 hours).
* From Spain, the motorway A28, A3, and A4 connect Porto to cities like Vigo, Madrid, and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
* Cruise ships stop at Leixões Port, which is about 9 km from Porto’s city center.
* River cruises on the Douro River can also get you to Porto from places like Régua and Pinhão.
* Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) is the main airport in Porto.
* Direct flights from major cities in Europe and international flights.
* Take the metro (Line E), a bus, or a Uber from the airport to the city center, the cost is about 15 euros.
By Train 🚆
* From Lisbon, Algarve, Northern Portugal: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train.
* From Spain: The Celta train connects Vigo (Spain) to Porto in about 2 hours.
By Bus 🚌
* There are many bus companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos that offer routes to Porto from various European cities.
* Buses from Lisbon take about 3.5-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
* From Lisbon, take the A1 motorway (the journey takes about 3 hours).
* From Spain, the motorway A28, A3, and A4 connect Porto to cities like Vigo, Madrid, and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
* Cruise ships stop at Leixões Port, which is about 9 km from Porto’s city center.
* River cruises on the Douro River can also get you to Porto from places like Régua and Pinhão.
When To Visit Porto?
What are the Best Months To Visit explore the Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto.
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
* São João Festival (June 23-24): Is the biggest party in Porto, with fireworks, street concerts and people hitting each other with plastic hammers! It is so much fun!
* Sunsets in Porto during these months are around 9 PM meaning more time for sightseeing, boat tours and enjoying rooftop bars Porto.
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
* São João Festival (June 23-24): Is the biggest party in Porto, with fireworks, street concerts and people hitting each other with plastic hammers! It is so much fun!
* Sunsets in Porto during these months are around 9 PM meaning more time for sightseeing, boat tours and enjoying rooftop bars Porto.
Porto Itinerary Ideas 1 Day
1, Visit the São Bento Railway Station. Admire its blue-tiled murals.
2, Discover Sé do Porto. Porto’s historic cathedral with stunning views
3, The Chapel of Santa Catarina. A hidden gem in Porto’s bustling streets
4, Explore Ribeira District. Walk along the picturesque riverside with colorful buildings.
5, Stroll Across Dom Luís I Bridge. Iconic double-deck iron bridge
5, Try Port Wine. Sample wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
6, Take a River Cruise. cruising on the Douro River.
7, Spend the afternoon chilling at the Piscina das Marés one of the best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto
2, Discover Sé do Porto. Porto’s historic cathedral with stunning views
3, The Chapel of Santa Catarina. A hidden gem in Porto’s bustling streets
4, Explore Ribeira District. Walk along the picturesque riverside with colorful buildings.
5, Stroll Across Dom Luís I Bridge. Iconic double-deck iron bridge
5, Try Port Wine. Sample wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
6, Take a River Cruise. cruising on the Douro River.
7, Spend the afternoon chilling at the Piscina das Marés one of the best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto
Porto Itinerary Ideas 2 Days
Day One
1, Visit the São Bento Railway Station. Admire its blue-tiled murals.
2, Discover Sé do Porto. Porto’s historic cathedral with stunning views
3, The Chapel of Santa Catarina. A hidden gem in Porto’s bustling streets
4, Explore Ribeira District. Walk along the picturesque riverside with colorful buildings.
5, Stroll Across Dom Luís I Bridge. Iconic double-deck iron bridge
5, Try Port Wine. Sample wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
6, Take a River Cruise. cruising on the Douro River. You will have a day full of amazing things to do in Porto.
Day Two
1, Visit Livraria Lello. One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
2, Climb the Clérigos Tower It gives you an amazing view of Porto
3, Visit Serra do Pilar for The best views in the city
4, Check out the Church of Carmo. Impossible to miss
5, Church and Museum of São Francisco do Porto for Amazing history and beautiful tiles.
5, Palácio da Bolsa. The stunning 19th-century neoclassical building
6, Enjoy a Francesinha A hearty local sandwich
7, End your trip Piscina Praia de Canide Sul one of the best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto
1, Visit the São Bento Railway Station. Admire its blue-tiled murals.
2, Discover Sé do Porto. Porto’s historic cathedral with stunning views
3, The Chapel of Santa Catarina. A hidden gem in Porto’s bustling streets
4, Explore Ribeira District. Walk along the picturesque riverside with colorful buildings.
5, Stroll Across Dom Luís I Bridge. Iconic double-deck iron bridge
5, Try Port Wine. Sample wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
6, Take a River Cruise. cruising on the Douro River. You will have a day full of amazing things to do in Porto.
Day Two
1, Visit Livraria Lello. One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
2, Climb the Clérigos Tower It gives you an amazing view of Porto
3, Visit Serra do Pilar for The best views in the city
4, Check out the Church of Carmo. Impossible to miss
5, Church and Museum of São Francisco do Porto for Amazing history and beautiful tiles.
5, Palácio da Bolsa. The stunning 19th-century neoclassical building
6, Enjoy a Francesinha A hearty local sandwich
7, End your trip Piscina Praia de Canide Sul one of the best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Porto
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Best Hotels in Porto
Accommodation
Star Rating
Top Reviewed
Casa da Companhia, Vignette Collection by IHG
Torel Palace Porto
Altis Porto Hotel
Hotels 705 Porto Prime
Hotel Tipografia do Conto by Casa do Conto
Village Aparthotel By BOA
Jardim da Batalha Boutique Hotel by Shiadu
Casa D’Almeida by Porto Stories
Casual Raízes Porto
Ribeira Douro Hotel
Moov Hotel Porto Norte
Seculo Hotel
Torel Palace Porto
Altis Porto Hotel
Hotels 705 Porto Prime
Hotel Tipografia do Conto by Casa do Conto
Village Aparthotel By BOA
Jardim da Batalha Boutique Hotel by Shiadu
Casa D’Almeida by Porto Stories
Casual Raízes Porto
Ribeira Douro Hotel
Moov Hotel Porto Norte
Seculo Hotel
5 Star
5 Star
5 Star
4 Star
4 Star
4 Star
3 Star
3 Star
3 Star
2 Star
2 Star
2 Star
5 Star
5 Star
4 Star
4 Star
4 Star
3 Star
3 Star
3 Star
2 Star
2 Star
2 Star
9.6
9.6
9.5
9.5
9.5
9.5
9.2
9.2
9.1
9.7
8.7
8.7
9.6
9.5
9.5
9.5
9.5
9.2
9.2
9.1
9.7
8.7
8.7
Things to Know Before You Go
The Weather Can Be Unpredictable
Porto has a temperate climate, but the weather can be quite unpredictable, especially during the winter months. For example, I am writing this in March and the morning was cold and grey but the afternoon was sunny and warm.
Always carry an umbrella or light jacket, even if the forecast is sunny, to be prepared for sudden changes and wear layers.
Porto is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills
Porto is a very walkable city, but it is also known for its steep hills! You’ll find yourself walking up and down many cobblestone streets and staircases, especially in areas like the Ribeira district and Vila Nova de Gaia. So, pack comfortable shoes and be ready for a little leg workout when visiting the 30 things to do in Porto.
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Porto, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Public Transport is Convenient
Porto has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. You can use the Andante card for easy access to all these modes of transport. It’s an affordable card you can purchase at metro stations. It makes traveling around the city, especially between districts like Ribeira, Boavista, and the airport, simple and hassle-free.
Porto has a temperate climate, but the weather can be quite unpredictable, especially during the winter months. For example, I am writing this in March and the morning was cold and grey but the afternoon was sunny and warm.
Always carry an umbrella or light jacket, even if the forecast is sunny, to be prepared for sudden changes and wear layers.
Porto is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills
Porto is a very walkable city, but it is also known for its steep hills! You’ll find yourself walking up and down many cobblestone streets and staircases, especially in areas like the Ribeira district and Vila Nova de Gaia. So, pack comfortable shoes and be ready for a little leg workout when visiting the 30 things to do in Porto.
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Porto, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Public Transport is Convenient
Porto has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. You can use the Andante card for easy access to all these modes of transport. It’s an affordable card you can purchase at metro stations. It makes traveling around the city, especially between districts like Ribeira, Boavista, and the airport, simple and hassle-free.
Written by Clara R.
“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”
